How To Wash Your Mattress The Right Way In 7 Easy Steps!

Since you spend roughly a third of your life sleeping, keeping your mattress clean isn’t just about comfort—it’s essential for your health too. We know life gets busy, but a regular mattress-cleaning routine can help extend its lifespan and create a healthier sleep environment.

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide with everything you’ll need to freshen up your mattress in just 7 easy steps.

What You’ll Need

Gather these supplies before you start:

• Vacuum cleaner (with upholstery attachment)

• Spray bottle

• Clean rags

• Dish soap or all-purpose cleaner

• Baking soda

• Water

• Soft-bristled brush or toothbrush

• Enzyme cleaner (for tough stains)

• 3% hydrogen peroxide (optional for stubborn stains)

7-Step Mattress Cleaning Guide

1. Strip the Bed

Remove all pillows, blankets, sheets, and mattress covers. Wash all bedding in hot water to kill dust mites and remove allergens. Toss pillowcases, duvet covers, and any mattress toppers in the wash too.

Once your mattress is bare, you’re ready to start cleaning.

2. Vacuum Thoroughly

Use the upholstery attachment on your vacuum to clean the entire surface of your mattress. Pay extra attention to seams, edges, and crevices where dust, hair, and dirt collect.

For a deeper clean, use a crevice tool to reach into tight corners and along the sides.

3. Spot Clean Stains

Mix two tablespoons of hydrogen peroxide with one tablespoon of dish soap to create a gentle stain remover. Use a toothbrush or soft brush to gently scrub stains. Avoid soaking the mattress—excess moisture can lead to mold and mildew, especially with memory foam.

4. Treat Biological Stains (Like Sweat, Blood, or Urine)

For stubborn biological stains, such as sweat or urine, use an enzyme cleaner. Spray the cleaner onto a cloth (not directly on the mattress) and gently blot the stain. Let it sit for 15 minutes to break down proteins, then blot away any excess moisture.

If stains persist, consider hiring a professional cleaner to avoid damaging the mattress.

5. Deodorize with Baking Soda

Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda evenly across the mattress surface. For extra freshness, add a few drops of your favourite essential oil to the baking soda before applying. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes—the longer, the better.

Baking soda helps absorb odours and moisture, leaving your mattress smelling clean and fresh.

6. Vacuum Again

After the baking soda has had time to work, vacuum the entire mattress again to remove all residue. Use the upholstery attachment to make sure you get every bit of powder, especially along the edges and seams.

7. Let It Air Out

If possible, allow your mattress to air out for a few hours before putting the bedding back on. Open windows to improve ventilation, or place your mattress near sunlight to help kill any lingering bacteria.

Proper airflow helps prevent moisture buildup, reducing the risk of mold and mildew.

Benefits of Keeping Your Mattress Clean

Improved Air Quality

A dirty mattress can pollute the air in your bedroom with dust, sweat, oils, and shed skin cells. Regular cleaning reduces these contaminants, helping you breathe easier and improving the air quality in your sleep environment.

Allergy and Irritation Prevention

Dust mites and allergens thrive in dirty mattresses. Keeping your mattress clean reduces your risk of allergic reactions, asthma flare-ups, and skin irritation, all of which contribute to better overall health.

Longer Mattress Lifespan

Routine cleaning helps protect your mattress from premature wear and tear. By preventing buildup of grime, stains, and odors, you’ll keep your mattress comfortable and supportive for years to come.

Final Thoughts

With these 7 easy steps, you’re well on your way to keeping your mattress fresh, clean, and healthy. If you have questions or need help choosing products to care for your mattress, our experts are always here to assist you.

Investing a little time in mattress maintenance will not only improve your sleep quality but also help you get the most out of your mattress investment.