How To Get The Musty Smell Out Of a Mattress: Simple Steps That Work

If you’re wondering how to get the musty smell out of a mattress, you’re not alone. Musty or “old” odors are common, especially after spills, humidity, or long periods in storage. The good news: in many cases, you can freshen a mattress at home with basic supplies and a bit of time.

Below are clear, step‑by‑step answers to the most common questions about musty-smelling mattresses and how to care for them.

What causes a mattress to smell musty?

A musty smell usually means moisture has been trapped in the mattress. Over time, this can mix with dust, skin cells, and other debris and create that stale odor.

Common triggers include:

High humidity or poor ventilation in the bedroom
Spills or accidents that weren’t fully dried
Storing a mattress in a damp basement, garage, or storage unit
Covering the mattress with non-breathable plastic for long periods

Understanding the cause helps you choose the best approach for how to get the musty smell out of a mattress and prevent it from coming back.

First steps: What should I do as soon as I notice a musty smell?

Start by airing the mattress out:

Strip all bedding – remove sheets, covers, and any toppers and wash them according to their care labels.
Vacuum the surface – use the upholstery attachment to remove dust and loose debris from all sides you can reach.
Increase airflow – open windows and use a fan to help move air across the mattress. If weather allows, place the mattress near a sunny, well-ventilated window.

These simple steps often reduce light odors and prepare the mattress for deeper deodorizing.

How To Get The Musty Smell Out Of a Mattress: Step-by-Step

Here’s a straightforward process many people use at home:

1. Use baking soda as a natural deodorizer

Baking soda is commonly used to help absorb odors from soft surfaces.

Sprinkle a generous, even layer of baking soda over the entire top surface of the mattress.
Gently work it in with your hand or a soft brush.
Leave it on for several hours, or ideally the whole day, with windows open and a fan running.
Vacuum thoroughly to remove all the baking soda.

For deeper odors, you can repeat this process or treat one side at a time if you can safely flip the mattress.

2. Spot-treat any stained or damp areas

If there are visible stains or you suspect a spill caused the smell:

Lightly mist a cloth with a mild solution of water and gentle detergent.
Blot (don’t rub) the stained area, keeping the mattress as dry as possible.
Follow with baking soda on that area to help absorb extra moisture and odor.
Vacuum when dry.

Avoid soaking the mattress. Too much liquid can make odors worse by adding more trapped moisture.

3. Use gentle vinegar solutions with care

Some people like to use diluted white vinegar for stubborn musty smells because it has its own strong odor that often fades as it dries.

Mix a small amount of white vinegar with water in a spray bottle.
Lightly mist a cloth (not the mattress directly) and dab the affected area.
Allow the mattress to dry completely, then apply baking soda and vacuum again.

Always test any cleaning solution on a small, hidden area first to make sure it doesn’t affect the fabric.

How can I dry the mattress thoroughly?

Proper drying is essential to remove moisture that can cause musty odors:

Use fans aimed at the mattress surface.
Open windows when humidity is low to allow fresh air in.
If available, use a dehumidifier to help pull moisture out of the room.
Give the mattress plenty of time to dry before making the bed again.

If the mattress still feels cool and damp to the touch after treatment, continue drying until it feels completely dry.

When is a musty mattress a bigger concern?

Sometimes a musty smell may be a sign of a more serious problem inside the mattress, such as long-term dampness.

Possible warning signs:

A persistent, strong odor that returns quickly after cleaning
Visible patches of discoloration that continue to spread
The mattress has been heavily soaked or stored for a long time in a very damp place

In these cases, it may be difficult to fully remove the smell at home. Many people consider whether the mattress is still suitable to use, based on its age and condition.

How can I prevent musty smells from coming back?

Once you’ve learned how to get the musty smell out of a mattress, it’s helpful to keep it fresher for the long term:

Use a breathable mattress protector to help shield against spills while still allowing airflow.
Wash sheets and bedding regularly to reduce buildup of sweat and skin oils.
Air out the mattress a few times a year by removing all bedding, opening windows, and vacuuming the surface.
Keep the room ventilated and avoid placing the mattress directly on the floor in very humid environments, if possible.

Small, consistent care steps can make a noticeable difference in how your mattress smells over time.

✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points to know about how to get the musty smell out of a mattress:

Start with airflow: Strip the bed, open windows, and use fans to air the mattress out.
Vacuum first: Remove dust and debris before using any deodorizing methods.
Baking soda helps absorb odors: Sprinkle generously, let sit for hours, then vacuum thoroughly.
Keep moisture to a minimum: Spot clean carefully and avoid soaking the mattress.
Dry completely: Use fans and, if available, a dehumidifier to ensure the mattress is fully dry.
Watch for persistent odors or damage: A strong, lingering musty smell can indicate deeper issues.
Prevent future smells: Use a protector, wash bedding regularly, and periodically air out the mattress.

With patient, step-by-step care, many musty mattresses can be noticeably fresher and more comfortable to sleep on.