How Are Mattresses Cleaned Professionally?

Your mattress is one of the most-used surfaces in your home — and one of the least-cleaned. Over time, it collects dead skin cells, dust mites, sweat, allergens, and the occasional mystery stain. Professional mattress cleaning is more thorough than anything you can do with a vacuum and baking soda. Here's exactly how it works, and when it's worth the cost.

What Professional Cleaning Actually Does

A professional mattress cleaning goes far deeper than surface-level vacuuming. It removes allergens and biological contaminants embedded in the foam and fabric layers — things that contribute to poor air quality in your bedroom, allergy flare-ups, and lingering odors. For people with asthma, allergies, or sensitive skin, it can make a noticeable difference in sleep quality.

The 7-Step Professional Cleaning Process

Step 1: Initial Inspection

The technician examines the entire mattress surface — top, sides, and underside if possible. They identify the type of mattress (memory foam, innerspring, latex, hybrid), note any stains, damage, or heavy soiling, and choose the appropriate cleaning approach. Not all materials can handle the same treatments.

Step 2: Deep Vacuuming

Using a high-powered HEPA vacuum, the cleaner removes surface debris, dust, dead skin cells, pet dander, and loose allergens. This step is done before any wet treatment — applying moisture to an unvacuumed surface would push debris deeper into the mattress.

Step 3: Spot and Stain Treatment

Individual stains are treated before the main clean. The technician uses enzyme-based or oxidizing solutions matched to the stain type:

  • Protein stains (blood, sweat, urine) — enzyme cleaners that break down organic matter
  • Tannin stains (coffee, tea, juice) — oxidizing agents
  • Oil-based stains — solvent-based spot treatments

The cleaning solution is always matched to the mattress material to avoid damaging foam or fabric.

Step 4: Steam Cleaning or Dry Cleaning

This is the main cleaning phase. The method depends on the mattress type:

  • Steam cleaning — high-temperature steam (typically 250°F+) penetrates the surface layers, killing dust mites, bacteria, and allergens while loosening embedded dirt. Effective on most innerspring and hybrid mattresses.
  • Dry cleaning — a dry cleaning solvent is applied and worked into the surface, then vacuumed away. Used for memory foam and latex mattresses that can be damaged by excessive moisture.

Step 5: Deodorizing

After the main clean, a deodorizing treatment is applied — typically a baking soda-based powder or enzyme spray. This neutralizes odors from sweat, pets, and general use rather than masking them. The deodorizer is left to work for 10–20 minutes, then vacuumed away.

Step 6: Sanitizing

A sanitizing spray or UV treatment is applied to kill any remaining bacteria, mold spores, or allergens. UV wand sanitizers are increasingly common and effective without adding moisture. Some services use antimicrobial sprays that leave a light residue, creating a protective barrier.

Step 7: Drying

Complete drying is critical. A damp mattress is a breeding ground for mold and mildew. Professionals use high-powered air movers and dehumidifiers to reduce drying time to 2–4 hours. In some cases, windows and fans assist. You should never sleep on a mattress until it's completely dry.

Cleaning Methods Compared

Method Best For Kills Dust Mites Moisture Level Drying Time
Steam Cleaning Innerspring, hybrid Yes Medium 2–4 hours
Dry Cleaning Memory foam, latex Partially Low 30–60 min
UV Sanitizing Any mattress type Yes None None needed
Enzyme Treatment Urine, blood stains No Low–medium 1–2 hours

DIY vs. Professional: Which Do You Need?

When DIY is enough

  • Regular maintenance cleaning every 3–6 months
  • Light odor from general use (baking soda + vacuum handles this)
  • Fresh spills caught immediately
  • No visible stains or allergy symptoms

When to call a professional

  • Set-in stains from urine, blood, or sweat
  • Persistent odors that don't respond to DIY treatment
  • Allergy flare-ups or unexplained respiratory symptoms
  • Visible mold or mildew (any sign of this requires immediate professional attention)
  • The mattress hasn't been deep cleaned in over a year
  • After illness, especially anything involving body fluids

Expert tip: A mattress protector eliminates most reasons for professional cleaning. A waterproof, breathable protector stops liquids from reaching the mattress and can be machine washed. It's the single best investment for mattress longevity — and it costs far less than a cleaning service.

How Often Should You Clean Your Mattress?

  • Vacuum at home: Every 1–3 months
  • Spot clean stains: As soon as they happen
  • Flip or rotate: Every 3–6 months (check your mattress manufacturer's guidance)
  • Professional deep clean: Once every 12–24 months, or sooner if needed
  • After illness: Promptly, especially if bedding was in contact with sick person

What to Do After a Professional Cleaning

  1. Allow the mattress to dry completely before replacing bedding (confirm with the cleaning technician)
  2. Air the room for several hours with windows open if possible
  3. Consider adding a quality mattress protector before putting sheets back on
  4. Note the date — set a reminder for your next cleaning

If your mattress is old, heavily stained, or showing signs of sagging and wear, cleaning may not be worth the cost. At a certain point, a new mattress is a better investment. Visit one of our 5 LA showroom locations to explore options, or browse our mattress collection online.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does professional mattress cleaning take?

Most professional mattress cleanings take 30–60 minutes for the service itself. Add 2–4 hours of drying time before the mattress is ready to use.

Can all mattresses be steam cleaned?

No. Memory foam and latex mattresses are sensitive to moisture and heat. Professionals use dry cleaning or low-moisture methods for these types. Always confirm the technician knows your mattress material before they begin.

Does professional cleaning remove all stains?

Not always. Set-in stains — especially from urine or blood — may be reduced but not fully eliminated if they've been present for a long time. Fresh stains treated quickly have much better outcomes.

Is professional mattress cleaning worth it?

For allergy sufferers or households with kids and pets, yes — it can meaningfully improve bedroom air quality. For a relatively clean mattress in a home without allergy concerns, regular DIY maintenance may be sufficient.

Can I clean a memory foam mattress at home?

You can spot clean with a mild detergent and damp (not wet) cloth, and deodorize with baking soda. Never saturate memory foam — it doesn't dry well and mold can develop inside.

How do I remove urine from a mattress?

Act fast: blot (don't rub) up as much liquid as possible, apply an enzyme cleaner, let it sit 10–15 minutes, then blot again and allow to air dry. For old stains, a professional enzyme treatment works better than DIY approaches.

What is the best way to prevent mattress odors?

Use a waterproof mattress protector, keep bedding washed regularly (every 1–2 weeks), ensure good bedroom ventilation, and sprinkle baking soda on the mattress surface monthly — leave for a few hours, then vacuum thoroughly.

Ready for a new mattress instead? Explore our full selection of mattresses in every style and budget, and ask about our 120-Night Comfort Guarantee. Our sleep experts at any of our Los Angeles showrooms can help you find the right fit.