Last Updated on June 8, 2023 by Pro Handyman Editorial Team

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to clean a mattress effectively. If you’re seeking a foolproof method to eliminate stubborn stains, remove unpleasant odors, and restore your bed to its fresh and pristine condition, you’ve come to the right place. This guide will walk you through every step of the cleaning process, addressing common concerns, such as mold and various stains. By following our detailed instructions, you can ensure a clean and healthy sleep environment.

Why Is It Important to Clean Your Mattress?

Even if your mattress appears clean, it’s essential to acknowledge that dust mites, bacteria, and musty odors can accumulate over time. Additionally, sleeping on a clean and fresh-smelling mattress can contribute to improved sleep quality. Cleaning your mattress offers several benefits, including:

Dust Mites

Dust mites are microscopic pests that thrive on the skin cells you shed while sleeping. Considering that the average person sheds millions of skin cells each week, it’s no surprise that mattresses harbor tens of thousands of dust mites eagerly awaiting their next meal [^1^]. Regularly cleaning your mattress can minimize dust mite populations and their associated allergens.

Allergens

Tossing and turning in bed can stir up dust particles in your mattress, releasing them into the bedroom air. Even if you don’t have a specific dust allergy, prolonged exposure to these particles can lead to nasal congestion, itchy/watery eyes, and throat irritation [^2^].

Night Sweats

Regardless of whether you tend to feel hot or cold during sleep, sweating is a natural occurrence. The moisture from your body seeps into the mattress surface, creating a moist environment ideal for bacterial growth.

Sleep Quality

A clean mattress contributes to a more peaceful sleep experience. Making your bed in the morning, keeping your sheets clean, and resting on a fresh mattress can help you fall asleep faster and enjoy uninterrupted sleep. Deep cleaning your mattress at least twice yearly helps reduce bacterial buildup and keeps allergens in check.

DIY Mattress Cleaning Supplies

To clean your mattress effectively, we recommend using a DIY method that is both efficient and safe. Our method involves using essential household items that you likely already have. Here’s a list of supplies you’ll need to get started:

Hydrogen Peroxide
Baking Soda
Transparent Dish Soap (avoid using green or blue varieties to prevent staining)
Spray Bottle
Toothbrush
White Rags
Vacuum Cleaner
Sifter (optional)
Essential Oil (optional)

For addressing blood and urine stains, you’ll also require the following:

White Distilled Vinegar
Another Spray Bottle

Rest assured that all the supplies we recommend are safe and non-toxic. Now that you have gathered the necessary materials let’s dive into the mattress cleaning process.

Setting Expectations

Before we proceed, it’s essential to establish realistic expectations regarding the cleaning outcome. While cleaning can significantly improve the appearance and freshness of your mattress, it may not eliminate certain stains or restore an aged mattress to its original condition.

Old & New Stains

Fresh stains are generally easier to remove compared to long-standing ones. Remember that older stains may only partially disappear, especially if they are dark or deep. However, rest assured that the cleaning process we outline will significantly improve the overall cleanliness of your mattress.

Light & Dark Stains

Dark stains caused by substances like coffee or chocolate might still exhibit slight visibility after cleaning, especially on lighter-colored

How to Clean and Maintain Your Mattress for Longevity

At Pro Handyman, we understand the importance of a clean, well-maintained mattress. As a significant investment, your mattress deserves proper care to ensure longevity and comfort. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the nine simple steps to clean and maintain your bed effectively, helping you sleep easy night after night.

Step 1: Gather Your Mattress Cleaning Supplies

To begin the deep cleaning process, having the right supplies on hand is essential. Here’s a list of items you’ll need:

A vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment
An enzyme cleaner or dish soap for stain removal
Laundry detergent for washing bedding
Baking soda for deodorizing
Cleaning cloths
Cold water

Having these supplies ready will streamline the cleaning process and ensure efficient results.

Step 2: Strip the Bed and Wash All Bedding

Remove all sheets, pillowcases, and mattress covers, and toss them into the washing machine. Washing your bedding in hot water helps eliminate dust mites and keeps everything fresh. If your pillows are machine washable, refer to the care label to determine the appropriate washing method.

Step 3: Vacuum the Mattress

Using the upholstery attachment on your vacuum cleaner, thoroughly vacuum the entire mattress surface, including the sides. Pay close attention to seams and crevices to remove hidden dirt or dust. Vacuuming helps eliminate allergens and keeps your bed clean and hygienic.

Step 4: Spot-Clean Your Mattress with a Stain Remover

If your mattress has any stains, treating them promptly is crucial. However, be cautious not to saturate the mattress with excessive water or cleaning solution, as this can damage the sure bed. Instead, follow these steps:

Select an appropriate stain remover based on the stain type and mattress material.
Spray the stain remover onto a clean white cloth.
Gently blot the stained area with the fabric.
If the stain persists, dampen a different clean cloth with cold water and continue blotting until the stain lifts.

Remember, using minimal moisture and cleaning product is key to preserving the integrity of your mattress. This method works effectively for biological stains such as blood, sweat, vomit, urine, etc. Alternatively, you can create a DIY solution by mixing dish soap with water to form foam or by combining equal parts cold water and hydrogen peroxide.

Step 5: Sprinkle Baking Soda over the Entire Mattress

If you can’t expose your mattress to sunlight and fresh air, baking soda is an excellent alternative for odor elimination and moisture absorption. Follow these instructions:

Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda evenly across the entire top surface of the mattress.
Leave the baking soda on for several hours, or ideally overnight, allowing it to break down acidity and absorb residual moisture and odors.
During this time, open windows in the room to invite natural light and fresh air. Sunlight’s UV rays naturally sanitize, helping eliminate mold and bacteria from the mattress.

Step 6: Vacuum Again

After the baking soda has had time to work its magic, thoroughly vacuum the entire mattress surface to remove all traces of baking soda. Remember to vacuum your fabric headboard, ensuring a fresh and clean sleeping environment.

Step 7: Flip the Mattress

Now that one side of your mattress is spotless, it’s time to give equal attention to the other. Flip the mattress and repeat steps 1 to 5 to thoroughly clean both sides. Note that flipping frequency may vary depending on the mattress type. While traditional spring mattresses should be scanned every three months, specialized models may have different recommendations. Consult your mattress manufacturer for specific guidelines.

Step 8: Maintain Regular Cleaning and Care

To keep your mattress in optimal condition, incorporate these maintenance practices:

Change and wash your bedding regularly to prevent the buildup of allergens and dirt.
Use a mattress protector to shield your mattress from spills, stains, and dust mites.
Rotate the mattress periodically to distribute wear and maintain its shape.
Avoid sitting or standing on the edges of the bed to prevent sagging.
Follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer for your specific mattress type.

Step 9: Consult Professional Cleaning Services

Consider consulting professional mattress cleaning services if your mattress requires deep cleaning beyond regular maintenance. They possess the expertise and equipment to thoroughly sanitize and refresh your mattress, ensuring a healthy and hygienic sleep environment.

Conclusion

By following these comprehensive steps and adopting proper mattress maintenance practices, you can extend the lifespan of your mattress and enjoy a cleaner, healthier sleep experience for years to come.

Remember, at Pro Handyman, we prioritize your comfort and well-being, and it will take care of your mattress cleaning services.