How To Get Vomit Stain Out Of Mattress: Simple Steps That Actually Work

If you’re searching for “How To Get Vomit Stain Out Of Mattress,” you’re likely dealing with a fresh accident or an older, lingering stain. This guide walks you through exactly what to do, from first cleanup to odor removal, using common household ingredients.

What’s the Best First Step When Vomit Gets on a Mattress?

Acting quickly makes stain and odor removal much easier.

  1. Remove bedding right away
    Strip sheets, mattress protector, and any blankets. Put them aside to wash separately.

  2. Blot, don’t scrub
    Use paper towels or a clean cloth to gently blot up as much liquid as possible.

    • Avoid rubbing, which can push vomit deeper into the mattress.

  3. Contain any chunks or solids
    Use a paper towel or disposable cloth to lift solids into a trash bag.

    • Do not press them into the fabric.

  4. Ventilate the room
    Open windows or turn on a fan to reduce lingering odors.

This quick response sets you up for effective stain and smell removal in the next steps.

How To Get Vomit Stain Out Of Mattress: Step‑by‑Step Cleaning Guide

Here’s a simple method many people find effective using basic supplies:

1. Mix a Gentle Cleaning Solution

You can use a mild cleaning mix such as:

  • Cool or lukewarm water
  • A small amount of gentle liquid soap or a bit of white vinegar

Avoid hot water, which can “set” some stains into fabrics.

2. Treat the Stain

  1. Dampen, don’t soak
    Lightly dip a clean cloth in your solution and blot the stained area.

    • The mattress should feel damp, not wet. Oversaturating can lead to long drying times and lingering odors.

  2. Work from the outside in
    This helps prevent the stain from spreading outward.

  3. Repeat as needed
    Rinse your cloth with clean water periodically and continue blotting until most of the stain has lifted.

3. Neutralize Odor with Baking Soda

Once the visible stain has faded:

  1. Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the treated area.
  2. Gently spread it around with your fingers or a dry cloth.
  3. Leave it on for several hours, ideally overnight, to help absorb moisture and odor.
  4. Vacuum thoroughly to remove all baking soda powder.

What If the Vomit Stain Has Already Dried?

Old stains are often more stubborn, but they can often be improved:

  1. Lightly rehydrate the stain
    Dampen the area with a small amount of cool water or a mild water–vinegar mix. Avoid soaking.

  2. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes
    This can help loosen dried residue in the mattress fibers.

  3. Blot with a clean cloth
    Use the same blotting, not scrubbing technique.

  4. Apply baking soda
    After blotting, cover with baking soda, let sit, and vacuum as described above.

You may need to repeat the process a couple of times for older, set‑in stains.

Can You Use Enzyme Cleaners on Vomit Stains?

Many people use enzyme-based cleaners on organic stains like vomit, urine, or sweat.

  • They are formulated to break down proteins and organic matter, which can help with both stain and odor.
  • Always spot test first in an inconspicuous area to check for discoloration.
  • Follow the instructions on the product label carefully and avoid oversaturating the mattress.

Enzyme cleaners can be especially helpful if basic soap and baking soda don’t fully remove the smell.

How Do You Get the Smell Out After Cleaning?

Even after the stain fades, odor can linger. To reduce smell:

  • Use plenty of baking soda and allow it to sit for several hours.
  • Repeat the baking soda step if odor remains.
  • Air out the mattress near an open window, if possible.
  • Avoid heavy fragrances that just mask the smell instead of helping remove it.

If the odor is still strong after multiple cleanings, the vomit may have soaked deeper into the mattress layers, which can be harder to fully remove.

How Should You Dry the Mattress After a Vomit Accident?

Proper drying is important to avoid musty smells:

  • Blot out as much moisture as possible with dry towels after cleaning.
  • Use airflow: fans or open windows can help speed up drying.
  • Allow several hours for the mattress to dry completely before putting sheets back on.
  • If one side is very wet and the mattress design allows, you can carefully tilt or stand it up for better air circulation.

Avoid using high heat directly on the mattress, as this can sometimes affect certain materials.

How Can You Prevent Future Vomit Stains on a Mattress?

While accidents can’t always be avoided, you can reduce damage:

  • Use a waterproof mattress protector to create a barrier between spills and the mattress.
  • Washable topper covers or extra layers can give you more washable surfaces.
  • Keep basic supplies handy: towels, baking soda, and a gentle cleaner make it easier to act quickly.

✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points for How To Get Vomit Stain Out Of Mattress:

  • Act fast: Remove bedding, blot (don’t scrub), and ventilate the room.
  • Use gentle cleaners: Cool water plus mild soap or vinegar can help lift fresh stains.
  • Control moisture: Lightly dampen the area instead of soaking the mattress.
  • Fight odor with baking soda: Apply generously, let sit for hours, then vacuum thoroughly.
  • Old stains need patience: Rehydrate, blot, and repeat cleaning and baking soda steps as needed.
  • Enzyme cleaners can help: Many people use them for persistent organic stains and smells.
  • Dry completely: Ensure the mattress is fully dry before making the bed again.
  • Protect for next time: A waterproof protector can make cleanup much easier.

With calm, methodical cleaning and the right household tools, you can usually greatly reduce or remove both the vomit stain and odor from a mattress and keep your sleep surface fresher and more comfortable.