How To Get Sweat Smell Out Of Mattress: Simple Steps That Work

If you’re wondering how to get sweat smell out of mattress without damaging it, you’re not alone. Night sweats, hot weather, and everyday use can all leave your mattress smelling less than fresh. The good news: with a few basic household ingredients and the right method, you can usually remove sweat odors and keep your bed feeling clean.

Why Does My Mattress Smell Like Sweat?

Mattresses absorb more than just body weight. Over time, they take in sweat, body oils, and skin cells, especially if you sleep hot or skip a mattress protector.

Sweat smells can cling because:

  • Foam and fabric can trap moisture and odor molecules
  • Limited airflow under heavy bedding slows down drying
  • Spills or humidity can make existing odors stronger

Knowing this helps explain why simply spraying air freshener rarely works. You need to both clean and deodorize the surface.

How To Get Sweat Smell Out Of Mattress: Step-by-Step

This method is gentle, works for most mattress types, and uses common household supplies. Always check your mattress care instructions first.

1. Strip the Bed and Air It Out

Remove all sheets, pillowcases, and covers for washing. If possible, let the bare mattress air out for at least 30–60 minutes. Opening a window or turning on a fan can help.

2. Spot Clean Any Stains

If there are visible sweat marks:

  1. Mix a mild solution of lukewarm water and a small amount of gentle liquid soap.
  2. Lightly dampen a clean cloth with the mixture (do not soak it).
  3. Blot the stained area, working from the outside in. Avoid scrubbing hard, which can push moisture deeper into the mattress.
  4. Use a second cloth dampened with plain water to remove any soapy residue.
  5. Blot dry with a clean, dry towel.

Keeping moisture to a minimum is important to avoid mold or mildew inside the mattress.

3. Deodorize With Baking Soda

Baking soda is widely used to help neutralize odors rather than just cover them.

  1. Sprinkle a generous, even layer of baking soda over the entire mattress surface, focusing on the areas where you sleep the most.
  2. Gently work it in with your hand or a soft brush.
  3. Leave it on for at least several hours; many people prefer to leave it all day. For stronger odors, leaving it for 8–12 hours can be helpful.
  4. Vacuum the mattress thoroughly using an upholstery attachment, going slowly to remove all the powder.

This simple step is often enough for light-to-moderate sweat smells.

What If the Sweat Smell Is Really Strong?

Sometimes, basic baking soda alone may not fully handle a long-standing or very strong odor. In that case, you can add a few more steps.

Light Vinegar Mist (Use Sparingly)

White vinegar is commonly used as a natural deodorizer. To avoid soaking the mattress:

  1. Mix one part white vinegar with two to three parts water in a spray bottle.
  2. Lightly mist the mattress surface—do not saturate.
  3. Let it air dry completely, with good ventilation.
  4. After it’s dry, repeat the baking soda and vacuuming step.

The initial vinegar scent usually fades as it dries, often taking some of the sweat odor with it.

When to Consider Professional Help

If you’ve tried the steps above and the odor persists, or if you suspect deep, long-term moisture issues, a professional mattress or upholstery cleaner may have tools that can reach deeper layers than home methods.

How Often Should I Deodorize My Mattress?

You don’t need to do a deep deodorizing every week. In general:

  • Light refresh: Sprinkle baking soda and vacuum every few months
  • After heavy sweating or spills: Clean and deodorize as soon as possible
  • When changing seasons: A deeper clean can help if you’ve been sweating more in warmer months

Regular maintenance makes it easier to handle any future odor.

How Can I Prevent Sweat Smell From Building Up Again?

Prevention can be simpler than repeated deep cleaning. A few small habits can make a big difference:

  • Use a washable mattress protector to create a barrier between you and the mattress.
  • Wash sheets and pillowcases regularly to remove sweat and oils.
  • Allow the mattress to air out occasionally by leaving it uncovered for a short time during the day.
  • Aim for decent room airflow and avoid trapping moisture with heavy bedding in hot weather.

These steps help keep sweat from soaking into the mattress in the first place.

✅ Quick Mattress Takeaways

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

  • Act fast when you notice odors: Fresh sweat smells are easier to remove than long-set ones.
  • Use minimal moisture: Lightly blot stains and avoid soaking the mattress to prevent deeper problems.
  • Baking soda is your main tool: It’s widely used to absorb and neutralize odors from the surface.
  • Vinegar can help with stubborn smells: A diluted mist, followed by thorough drying and baking soda, can reduce stronger odors.
  • Vacuum thoroughly: This removes baking soda and loosened particles from the mattress surface.
  • Protect and maintain: A mattress protector, regular sheet washing, and occasional airing out greatly reduce future sweat smells.

With these practical steps, how to get sweat smell out of mattress becomes a manageable routine rather than a frustrating mystery. By combining gentle cleaning, odor neutralizing, and regular care, you can keep your mattress fresher for longer.