How To Get Odor Out Of Mattress: Simple Steps That Actually Help

If you’re searching for “How To Get Odor Out Of Mattress,” you’re likely dealing with smells from sweat, spills, pets, or just everyday use. This guide walks through practical, at-home methods to freshen your mattress, plus when to consider deeper cleaning or replacement.

Why Does My Mattress Smell in the First Place?

Mattress odors usually come from a mix of moisture, body oils, spills, and trapped dust. Over time, these can create:

  • Musty or damp smells
  • Sour or “sweaty” odors
  • Pet or urine odors
  • Lingering smells from food or drinks

Most mattresses can be freshened at home, especially if you act quickly after a spill and let the materials dry thoroughly.

How To Get Odor Out Of Mattress: Step-by-Step

1. Start With a Dry, Clear Surface

  1. Strip all bedding: Remove sheets, covers, and protectors and wash according to their care labels.
  2. Vacuum the mattress: Use the upholstery attachment to remove dust, hair, and crumbs. Vacuum both sides if possible.

A clean surface helps any deodorizing method work more effectively.

2. Use Baking Soda to Neutralize General Odors

Baking soda is a common household option for absorbing mild to moderate odors.

How to use it:

  • Lightly sprinkle a generous, even layer of baking soda over the mattress surface.
  • For stronger smells, gently rub it in with your hand so it reaches the fabric.
  • Leave it for at least a few hours; many people prefer overnight for better odor absorption.
  • Vacuum thoroughly to remove all residue.

This is often enough for mild musty or “used” smells.

What About Stronger or Specific Odors?

Can I Remove Urine or Pet Odors From a Mattress?

Urine odors can be stubborn because liquid can soak deep into the mattress. Acting quickly is helpful.

Basic approach:

  1. Blot, don’t rub fresh spots with a clean, dry cloth to absorb as much liquid as possible.
  2. Apply a light mist of water to re-dampen dried spots before deodorizing (not soaking).
  3. Use a gentle cleaning solution suitable for fabrics (follow its label instructions).
  4. After spot cleaning, let the area dry completely, then cover with baking soda and vacuum later.

If the odor is very strong or longstanding, it may not fully disappear, but it often can be reduced.

How Do I Deal With Musty or Damp Smells?

Musty smells often mean the mattress has been exposed to moisture.

  • Place the mattress in a well‑ventilated area.
  • Open windows or use a fan to improve airflow.
  • Let it air out for several hours or more.
  • Follow up with baking soda to absorb any remaining odor.

If the mattress stays damp or has visible damage, professional cleaning or replacement may be worth considering.

Are Natural Deodorizers Safe for All Mattresses?

Many people use baking soda as a first choice because it is generally gentle and dry. Other common household products, like certain liquid cleaners, may not be suitable for all mattress types.

Important considerations:

  • Avoid soaking the mattress; too much liquid can make odors worse over time.
  • Check the care instructions that came with your mattress.
  • When in doubt, test any cleaner on a small, hidden area first.

How Often Should I Deodorize My Mattress?

You don’t need to deep-deodorize every week. For most people, light, regular maintenance works well:

  • Every few months: Vacuum and lightly use baking soda.
  • After any spill or accident: Address it promptly, then deodorize once it’s dry.
  • Rotate or flip your mattress if the design allows, which can help with overall wear.

How To Prevent Mattress Odors in the Future

Keeping smells from building up is usually easier than removing strong odors later.

  • Use a washable mattress protector to create a barrier against sweat and spills.
  • Air out your mattress occasionally by removing all bedding for a few hours.
  • Wash sheets and pillowcases regularly.
  • Let any spills dry fully before putting bedding back on.

Over time, these simple habits help your mattress stay fresher and more comfortable.

✅ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points consumers should understand about How To Get Odor Out Of Mattress:

  • Start dry and clean: Strip bedding and vacuum before any deodorizing.
  • Baking soda is a go‑to option for many common mattress odors.
  • Avoid soaking the mattress; too much liquid can trap odors instead of removing them.
  • Act quickly on spills and accidents to limit stains and smells.
  • Good airflow and time are essential for drying and reducing musty odors.
  • Regular light maintenance (vacuuming, baking soda, washing bedding) helps prevent strong odors from building up.

Freshening a mattress is usually a matter of drying, deodorizing, and protecting. By following these steps for How To Get Odor Out Of Mattress and maintaining simple habits over time, most sleepers can keep their mattress smelling clean and comfortable for longer.