How To Get Smells Out Of a Mattress: Practical FAQ Guide

If you’re searching for “How To Get Smells Out Of a Mattress”, you probably notice an odor every time you lie down or change the sheets. This guide walks through why mattresses smell, which methods are safest, and how to remove different types of odors without damaging your bed.

Why does my mattress smell in the first place?

Mattress odors usually come from everyday buildup rather than a single cause. Common sources include:

  • Sweat and body oils
  • Spills (coffee, drinks, food)
  • Urine or pet accidents
  • Smoke or strong cooking smells that linger in fabrics
  • Musty odors from poor ventilation or moisture

Most mattresses act like sponges for odors because of their layers of foam and fabric. Knowing the source helps you choose the right cleaning method and avoid making things worse.

What’s the safest first step for any mattress odor?

Before using any cleaner, start with basic, low-risk steps:

  1. Strip the bed completely
    Remove sheets, protectors, and covers and wash them according to their care labels.

  2. Air out the mattress

    • Stand or lay the mattress in a well-ventilated room.
    • Open windows and use a fan if possible.
    • A few hours of fresh air can reduce mild odors on its own.

  3. Vacuum the surface

    • Use a hand or upholstery attachment.
    • Vacuum the top, sides, and seams to remove dust, hair, and skin flakes that can hold smells.

These simple steps are gentle on almost all mattress types and are a good starting point when deciding how to get smells out of a mattress safely.

How can I use baking soda to get smells out of a mattress?

Baking soda is one of the most common and gentle options for neutralizing mattress odors.

Step-by-step:

  1. Lightly sprinkle baking soda over the entire mattress surface.
  2. For stronger smells, gently rub it in with a clean, dry cloth.
  3. Let it sit for at least a few hours; many people leave it on for most of the day.
  4. Vacuum thoroughly to remove all the powder.

Baking soda works best for general mustiness, sweat odors, and light smells, not deep urine or heavy smoke odor.

Can I use vinegar or other liquids on my mattress?

Using liquids can help with certain smells but too much moisture can damage a mattress or encourage mildew. If you try a vinegar-based or mild cleaning solution:

  • Check your mattress care instructions first.
  • Use a light mist, not a soak.
  • Blot with a clean, white cloth—never scrub hard.
  • Allow ample drying time, ideally with good airflow and a fan.

For many people, a simple approach is:

  • Mix a small amount of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
  • Lightly mist the affected area.
  • Blot gently and let it dry completely before making the bed.

Avoid harsh chemicals, heavy perfumes, or anything that leaves the mattress wet for a long time.

How do I get urine or pet smells out of a mattress?

Urine and pet accidents can be stubborn because they can soak deep into the layers.

If the spot is fresh:

  • Blot immediately with paper towels or a clean cloth.
  • Press firmly to pull out as much liquid as possible.
  • Avoid rubbing, which can push liquid deeper.

For lingering odor:

  • Use a gentle, fabric-safe cleaning solution designed for organic stains and follow its instructions.
  • Combine this with the baking soda method once the area is mostly dry.
  • Ensure the mattress dries fully—this can take many hours.

If a strong odor remains after careful cleaning, some people choose to limit use of that side of the mattress or cover the area with a protector to keep smells from spreading to bedding.

What about smoke, musty, or “new mattress” smells?

Smoke odors

Smoke can cling to fabrics and foams:

  • Airing out the mattress for multiple sessions can help.
  • Use baking soda repeatedly.
  • Keep the room well-ventilated to avoid the smell settling back into the mattress.

Musty or damp smells

A musty smell can suggest trapped moisture:

  • Air the mattress in a dry space with good airflow.
  • Use baking soda to absorb some odor.
  • Check that the bed base and room are also dry and well-ventilated.

“New mattress” smells

New mattresses sometimes have a temporary manufacturing or packaging odor:

  • Remove plastic wrapping as soon as possible.
  • Let the mattress air out for a day or two before full use, if you can.
  • Opening windows often helps the smell fade more quickly.

When should I be concerned about a mattress smell?

Some odors are a sign of a problem that regular cleaning might not fix:

  • A strong, persistent musty smell that feels damp
  • Visible dark spots or patches that could be mold
  • Odor that keeps returning quickly after careful cleaning and drying

In these cases, many people choose to avoid sleeping on that mattress and consider whether it’s time for replacement or further inspection of the sleeping environment.

✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points to understand about How To Get Smells Out Of a Mattress

  • Start gentle: Strip bedding, air out the mattress, and vacuum before using any cleaners.
  • Baking soda is a safe first choice for most mild odors and general freshening.
  • Use liquids cautiously and avoid oversaturating the mattress.
  • Act quickly with spills or accidents by blotting, then treating the area and allowing full drying time.
  • Persistent musty or sour odors can point to deeper issues that simple cleaning may not solve.
  • Good airflow, a mattress protector, and regular cleaning help prevent smells from building up again.

With a careful, step-by-step approach, you can usually reduce or remove common mattress odors while keeping your mattress in good condition.