How To Wash Mattress: Simple Steps to Clean and Care for Your Bed

If you’re searching for “How To Wash Mattress”, you’re usually looking for a safe, clear way to clean stains, remove odors, and freshen your mattress without damaging it. While you can’t put a mattress in a washing machine, you can deep clean it at home with the right approach.

Below is a practical FAQ-style guide on how to wash and care for your mattress so it stays fresher and more comfortable for longer.

Can you actually “wash” a mattress?

When people ask How To Wash Mattress, what they really need is how to clean it safely.

Most mattresses are not designed to be soaked with water or fully washed. Excess moisture can:

  • Damage internal foams or springs
  • Lead to mold or mildew inside the mattress
  • Void some warranty conditions

Instead, mattresses are typically cleaned using surface cleaning, spot cleaning, and deodorizing, along with regular vacuuming.

How do I clean a mattress step by step?

1. Strip the bed and let the mattress breathe

Remove all bedding, including protectors and toppers. If possible, open a window to improve airflow while you clean.

2. Vacuum the surface

Use a vacuum with an upholstery attachment to remove dust, crumbs, and loose debris. Pay extra attention to:

  • Seams
  • Tufts
  • Edges

This simple step already makes your mattress feel fresher.

3. Spot clean stains (the “wash” part)

This is the core of How To Wash Mattress at home.

  1. Check the care label on the mattress for any cleaning warnings.
  2. Use a mild cleaning solution, such as a small amount of gentle detergent mixed with cool water.
  3. Lightly dampen, do not soak, a clean cloth with the solution.
  4. Blot the stain gently from the outside in. Avoid scrubbing, which can push the stain deeper.
  5. Blot with a dry cloth afterward to remove excess moisture.

For tougher stains, many people use specialized upholstery or enzyme cleaners. Always test on a small, hidden area first.

How do I remove odors and freshen the mattress?

A common part of How To Wash Mattress questions is how to deal with smells.

  • Lightly sprinkle baking soda over the surface of the mattress.
  • Leave it for several hours, or longer if possible.
  • Vacuum thoroughly to remove the baking soda.

This helps absorb common bedroom odors and leaves the mattress smelling more neutral.

How do I dry the mattress after washing spots?

Drying is crucial. A mattress that stays damp for too long can develop unpleasant smells or internal moisture issues.

To dry safely:

  • Blot up as much moisture as possible with a dry towel
  • Allow the mattress to air dry completely before putting bedding back on
  • Improve airflow with a fan or open windows
  • Avoid direct high heat, which may not be suitable for some materials

Do not cover damp areas with sheets or mattress protectors, as this traps moisture.

How often should I clean my mattress?

For routine care:

  • Vacuum: about every 1–3 months
  • Spot clean stains: as soon as you notice them
  • Deodorize with baking soda: occasionally, when the mattress feels stale

Many sleepers also use a mattress protector to reduce how often deep cleaning is needed.

Are there things I should never do when washing a mattress?

Yes. To protect your mattress:

  • Do not soak it with water or cleaning solutions
  • Do not use harsh chemicals like strong bleach directly on the fabric
  • Do not steam clean unless the manufacturer specifically says it’s safe
  • Do not leave it damp for extended periods

These can damage the materials or affect comfort and durability.

Does the mattress type change how I should wash it?

The basics of How To Wash Mattress are similar across types, but there are some differences:

  • Memory foam or foam mattresses: Very sensitive to moisture. Use minimal liquid, blot gently, and ensure thorough drying.
  • Hybrid and spring mattresses: Still avoid soaking, but they may feel a little more forgiving to light spot cleaning.
  • Mattresses with removable covers: If the label allows, you may be able to wash the cover separately on a gentle cycle. The inner core should still be spot cleaned only.

Always follow any specific guidance on the label, as construction varies.

✅ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points consumers should understand about How To Wash Mattress

  • You can’t machine wash a mattress, but you can clean it thoroughly with vacuuming, spot cleaning, and deodorizing.
  • Use as little water as possible when treating stains to avoid soaking the interior.
  • Baking soda and vacuuming are simple, gentle ways to freshen and reduce odors.
  • Drying matters as much as cleaning—never put bedding on a damp mattress.
  • Check the care label for mattress-specific instructions, especially for foam or removable covers.
  • Protective covers help keep the mattress cleaner and reduce how often deeper cleaning is needed.

Understanding How To Wash Mattress safely helps you keep your sleep surface cleaner, fresher, and more comfortable over time. With regular light maintenance and careful spot cleaning, most mattresses stay in good condition for many years.