How to Clean a Mattress

Every 1-2 months, follow this process:

1. Strip all bedding — Remove sheets, pillowcases, mattress protector, and any toppers. Wash them according to their care labels.
2. Vacuum the entire mattress — Use the upholstery attachment on your vacuum. Cover the top, sides, and seams. This removes dust, dead skin cells, and dust mites that accumulate over time.
3. Check for stains — Address any new spots (see stain removal below).
4. Air it out — If possible, open windows or turn on a fan to let the mattress breathe for 30-60 minutes before remaking the bed.
5. Replace the protector and bedding — A clean protector goes on first, then sheets.

This takes about 20 minutes and makes a noticeable difference in mattress freshness and longevity.

Different stains require different approaches. Always blot — never rub — to prevent pushing the stain deeper into the material.

General stains (food, drink, body oils): Mix 1 tablespoon dish soap with 1 cup warm water. Dip a clean cloth in the solution, wring it out, and gently blot the stain. Follow with a cloth dampened with plain water to remove soap residue. Blot dry.

Blood stains: Use cold water only (hot water sets blood stains). Mix 1 tablespoon salt + 1 tablespoon dish soap + 2 tablespoons hydrogen peroxide. Apply to the stain, let sit 10 minutes, then blot with a cold damp cloth.

Urine stains: Blot up as much liquid as possible first. Spray a mixture of 1 cup hydrogen peroxide + 3 tablespoons baking soda + a few drops of dish soap. Let it sit until dry, then vacuum the baking soda residue.

Sweat/yellowing: Mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water with a tablespoon of baking soda. Spray on, let sit 30 minutes, then blot and vacuum.

Important: Avoid soaking the mattress — excess moisture can lead to mold growth inside the foam or springs. Always use minimal liquid and ensure thorough drying.

Over time, mattresses absorb body oils, sweat, and ambient odors. Baking soda is the most effective, safest deodorizer:

1. Strip and vacuum the mattress first
2. Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the entire surface — use about 1 cup for a Queen
3. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes — ideally 2-4 hours, or overnight for strong odors. The baking soda absorbs moisture and neutralizes odors.
4. Vacuum thoroughly to remove all the baking soda

For extra freshness: Add 5-10 drops of essential oil (lavender or tea tree) to the baking soda before sprinkling. This adds a pleasant scent and tea tree has natural antimicrobial properties.

Avoid: Febreze and chemical sprays directly on the mattress — they can leave residue that attracts more dirt and may damage foam materials.

Cleaning is reactive — protection is proactive. The best thing you can do for your mattress is prevent problems before they start:

• Use a waterproof mattress protector — This is non-negotiable. A quality protector blocks spills, sweat, allergens, and dust mites from reaching the mattress. It's also required to keep most warranties valid. See our protector guide →
• Wash bedding weekly — Sheets and pillowcases accumulate body oils and dead skin that transfer to the mattress. Hot water washing kills dust mites.
• Rotate the mattress every 3-6 months — Prevents uneven wear patterns and body impressions. See our rotation guide →
• Don't eat or drink in bed — The most common source of stains. If you must, use a protector and keep liquids in sealed containers.
• Let sunlight in occasionally — UV light naturally kills dust mites and bacteria. Open curtains on sunny days when the bed is unmade.

A mattress protector costs $30-80 — compared to a $1,000-3,000 mattress replacement, it's the cheapest insurance you can buy. Browse our mattress protectors →