What To Use To Clean a Mattress: Practical Guide to Safe Mattress Cleaning

If you’re wondering what to use to clean a mattress, you’re not alone. Mattresses collect sweat, skin cells, dust, and the occasional spill, so it’s natural to ask which cleaning products are safe, effective, and gentle enough for the surface you sleep on.

This FAQ walks through exactly what to use to clean a mattress, how to handle common stains, and what to avoid so you don’t damage the materials.

What is the safest thing to use to clean a mattress?

For regular cleaning, simple, mild products are usually best. Most mattresses respond well to:

  • A vacuum with an upholstery attachment – for dust, crumbs, and loose debris
  • Mild liquid dish soap mixed with cool water – for light stains
  • Baking soda – to help absorb moisture and reduce odors
  • White vinegar, diluted with water – for many organic stains and smells
  • Clean white cloths or microfiber towels – for blotting and dabbing

These options are gentle on most mattress types and help you avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the fabric or comfort layers.

What should I avoid when cleaning a mattress?

Knowing what not to use is just as important as knowing what to use to clean a mattress.

Try to avoid:

  • Soaking the mattress – Excess water can seep inside and be slow to dry.
  • Strong bleach or harsh chemicals – These may discolor fabrics or break down foams.
  • Abrasive cleaners or scrubbing brushes – These can roughen the surface or damage the cover.
  • Steam on certain foams – High heat and moisture can affect some materials and stitching.

When in doubt, test any cleaner on a small, hidden area first to check for discoloration or damage.

What should I use for general mattress cleaning and odor control?

If your mattress just needs a refresh rather than deep stain removal, you can keep it simple.

Step-by-step basic clean

  1. Strip the bed
    Remove all sheets, covers, and mattress protectors so the surface is fully exposed.

  2. Vacuum the surface
    Use an upholstery attachment to gently vacuum the top and sides. This removes loose dust and debris.

  3. Spot-clean any visible marks

    • Mix a small amount of mild dish soap with cool water.
    • Lightly dip a cloth into the solution and blot stains (do not soak).
    • Follow with a clean, damp cloth to blot away soap residue.

  4. Use baking soda for odor

    • Sprinkle a light, even layer of baking soda over the mattress.
    • Let it sit for at least 30–60 minutes; some people leave it on longer for stronger odors.
    • Vacuum thoroughly to remove the baking soda.

This routine uses simple, household items and avoids saturating the mattress.

What can I use to clean specific mattress stains?

Different stains respond best to different cleaners. Here are general guidelines.

Sweat and body oil stains

  • Mix a small amount of mild soap with cool water.
  • Lightly dab (don’t rub) with a clean cloth.
  • For lingering odor, you can use diluted white vinegar:
    • Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
    • Lightly mist the stain and blot with a dry cloth.
    • Follow with baking soda once it’s only slightly damp.

Food or drink spills

  • Blot up as much liquid as possible immediately with dry towels.
  • Use mild soap and water on a cloth to dab at the stain.
  • Avoid colored cloths that might transfer dye.
  • Let the area dry completely; use a fan to speed up air drying.

Urine or similar accidents

  • Blot up fresh liquid with paper towels or cloths.
  • Use diluted white vinegar to help with both stain and odor: apply lightly, then blot.
  • Sprinkle baking soda over the area once it’s damp, let dry fully, and vacuum.

For all stains, the key is to work gently, keep moisture to a minimum, and give the mattress enough time to dry.

Can I use disinfecting products on a mattress?

Some people want to reduce surface germs on a mattress. Mild approaches include:

  • Lightly misting with a fabric-safe, diluted disinfecting spray, then allowing plenty of drying time.
  • Ensuring good ventilation so moisture doesn’t stay trapped.

Avoid soaking the mattress or using products not meant for fabrics. Always check the care tag on your mattress for any materials-specific warnings.

How often should I clean my mattress, and what tools do I really need?

You don’t need an elaborate setup. For most households, the basics are enough.

Simple mattress-cleaning toolkit:

  • Vacuum with upholstery attachment
  • Mild liquid dish soap
  • White vinegar
  • Baking soda
  • Clean white cloths or microfiber towels

Many people choose to vacuum their mattress every few months and perform deeper spot cleaning when spills or stains occur.

✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points consumers should understand about What To Use To Clean a Mattress

  • Start mild: Use vacuuming, mild soap, water, baking soda, and diluted vinegar for most cleaning needs.
  • Avoid soaking: Too much liquid can be hard to dry and may damage the mattress interior.
  • Skip harsh chemicals: Strong bleach, abrasive cleaners, and very hot steam can be risky for many mattress materials.
  • Blot, don’t scrub: Gentle blotting helps lift stains without roughing up the fabric.
  • Dry thoroughly: After any spot cleaning, allow generous drying time with good airflow.
  • Check labels: Mattress care tags often mention what to avoid for that specific model.

Knowing what to use to clean a mattress makes routine care simpler and less stressful. With a few gentle household products, regular vacuuming, and careful spot-cleaning, you can keep your mattress feeling fresher and more comfortable over time without resorting to harsh or complicated methods.