How To Get Vomit Out Of a Mattress: Step‑by‑Step FAQ Guide

If you’re searching for “How To Get Vomit Out Of a Mattress”, you’re likely dealing with a fresh accident or trying to fix a lingering stain or smell. This guide walks you through exactly what to do, which cleaning methods are safest for most mattresses, and how to handle common problems like odor and discolouration.

Why Is Vomit So Hard To Clean From a Mattress?

Vomit is tricky because it’s:

  • Moist – it can soak deep into foam and fabric
  • Acidic and smelly – which can lead to stains and persistent odours
  • Full of particles – that can cling to mattress fibres and seams

A mattress can’t just be thrown in the washing machine, so knowing how to get vomit out of a mattress quickly and gently helps protect both cleanliness and mattress lifespan.

What Should I Do First When Vomit Gets on My Mattress?

1. Act quickly (but safely)

  1. Remove bedding immediately and place it in a hamper or tub, away from the mattress.
  2. Blot, don’t rub, the affected area with paper towels or an old cloth to pick up as much liquid and solid material as possible.
  3. If there are solids, use a spoon or scraper to lift them off gently before blotting.

Avoid pressing hard or scrubbing at this stage; that can push liquid deeper into the mattress.

How To Get Vomit Out Of a Mattress: A Simple Cleaning Method

Here is a general method that works for many mattress types. Always check your mattress care tag and test any cleaner on a small, hidden area first.

2. Mix a gentle cleaning solution

Common options include:

  • Mild dish soap and cool water
  • White vinegar and water (often used to help with odour)

Use cool or lukewarm water. Hot water can sometimes set stains.

3. Spot-clean the stain

  1. Lightly dampen a clean cloth with your solution (do not soak it).
  2. Blot the stained area, working from the outside in.
  3. Keep rotating to a clean part of the cloth as it picks up residue.
  4. Avoid over‑wetting; too much liquid can sink deep into the mattress.

4. Rinse the area carefully

  • Dampen another clean cloth with plain water.
  • Blot the area to lift any remaining soap or vinegar solution.
  • Again, do not saturate; the goal is to remove residue, not soak the mattress.

How Do I Get Rid of Vomit Smell From a Mattress?

Odour is one of the biggest concerns when figuring out how to get vomit out of a mattress.

5. Deodorize with a dry absorbent

A common household option is baking soda:

  1. While the area is still slightly damp (not wet), sprinkle a generous layer over the stain.
  2. Gently spread it to cover a slightly larger area than the original stain.
  3. Leave it on for several hours or overnight to absorb moisture and odour.
  4. Vacuum thoroughly using the upholstery attachment, making several slow passes.

If odour remains, you can repeat this step once the mattress is fully dry.

How Do I Dry the Mattress Safely?

Drying is essential to prevent musty smells and moisture damage.

  • Increase airflow with open windows or fans.
  • If possible, stand the mattress on its side to let air circulate around the cleaned spot.
  • Avoid direct heat sources that get very hot, as they can damage some mattress materials.

The cleaned area should feel completely dry to the touch before you replace bedding or use a mattress protector.

What If the Stain Is Old or Already Set?

Dried vomit stains can be more stubborn but are often still improvable.

  • Gently vacuum the area first to remove any dried particles.
  • Follow the same spot-cleaning steps, possibly repeating the cleaning and deodorizing cycles more than once.
  • Some discolouration may remain, especially on light fabrics, but odour and hygiene can usually be significantly improved.

If you are unsure about your mattress material (for example, natural fibres or specialty foams), you may want to use an especially mild solution and test carefully.

Can Different Mattress Types Change How I Clean Vomit?

Most standard methods for how to get vomit out of a mattress are similar, but keep these points in mind:

  • Memory foam and other foams: Very absorbent, so avoid soaking. Use minimal liquid and extra time for drying.
  • Hybrid or spring mattresses: Still avoid excess moisture; liquid can seep into layers that are hard to dry.
  • Mattress toppers: Some removable toppers may have washable covers. Check labels before cleaning.

When in doubt, use gentle cleaners, light moisture, and thorough drying.

✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points about how to get vomit out of a mattress

  • Act quickly: Remove bedding, lift solids carefully, and blot up moisture without scrubbing.
  • Use mild solutions: Gentle soap and water or diluted white vinegar are commonly used for spot cleaning.
  • Don’t oversaturate: Too much liquid can drive vomit deeper into the mattress and slow drying.
  • Deodorize with a dry absorbent: A layer of baking soda left for several hours can help reduce odour.
  • Dry completely: Use airflow and time; only remake the bed once the area is fully dry.
  • Repeat if needed: Old or heavy stains may need multiple light cleaning and deodorizing rounds.
  • Check care instructions: Always consider your mattress type and manufacturer guidelines before cleaning.

With a calm, step‑by‑step approach, most people can successfully clean and freshen their mattress after an accident, restoring a more comfortable and hygienic sleep surface.