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The best way to clean a mattress at home is to vacuum it well, treat stains with a small amount of suitable cleaner, remove odors with baking soda, and let the mattress dry completely before making the bed. Use as little moisture as possible. Mattresses are thick and can take a long time to dry if they become soaked.
Always check the mattress care instructions and the cleaner label before you begin. Some foam, natural fiber, adjustable, and specialty mattresses need different care.
What You Need
Gather a few basic supplies:
- Vacuum with an upholstery attachment
- Clean white cloths or towels
- Mild liquid detergent
- Cool or lukewarm water
- Baking soda
- Small bowl
- Soft brush, if the mattress fabric allows it
- Fan for faster drying
- Mattress protector for after cleaning
White cloths are useful because colored towels may transfer dye when they become wet.
Step 1: Strip the Bed
Remove all sheets, pillowcases, blankets, mattress pads, toppers, and protectors.
Wash the bedding according to each care label. Check the instructions before using bleach, hot water, or high dryer heat. Bulky comforters and mattress pads may need a large-capacity washer.
Keep the bed uncovered while you clean the mattress. This gives the mattress more time to air out.
Step 2: Check the Mattress Care Instructions
Look for a care label on the mattress. You can also check the current manufacturer guidance for your mattress model.
Pay attention to instructions about:
- Water and cleaning products
- Steam cleaning
- Vacuuming
- Removable covers
- Rotating or flipping
- Drying
- Electric or adjustable-bed parts
Do not assume that a zippered mattress cover can go in the washing machine. On some mattresses, the cover is not designed to be removed.
Disconnect any powered bed components before cleaning nearby. Follow the manufacturer’s guidance for adjustable bases, heated bedding, air chambers, hoses, or electrical controls.
Step 3: Vacuum the Entire Mattress
Use the upholstery attachment to vacuum the top of the mattress slowly.
Work across the full surface, including:
- Seams
- Tufted areas
- Piping around the edges
- Corners
- Creases near handles
- The area where the mattress meets the bed frame
Use gentle suction around delicate fabric or loose stitching.
Vacuum the sides too. Vacuum the bottom only when the mattress can be moved safely and the manufacturer allows it. Large mattresses can be heavy and awkward, so get help rather than trying to lift one alone.
Vacuuming removes hair, crumbs, dust, lint, and other loose debris before damp cleaning begins. This is especially helpful in homes with pets, kids, or regular snacking in bed.
Step 4: Spot-Clean Stains
Do not pour cleaner directly onto the mattress. Apply a small amount to a cloth first.
For many ordinary marks, mix a few drops of mild liquid detergent with cool or lukewarm water. Dampen a clean cloth with the solution, then wring it out well.
Blot the stain from the outside toward the center. This helps keep the mark from spreading.
Do not scrub hard. Rough scrubbing can damage the fabric or push the stain deeper into the mattress.
After treating the area, blot it with another cloth lightly dampened with plain water. Then press a dry towel over the spot to remove extra moisture.
Cleaning Fresh Spills
Act quickly when something spills.
- Remove the bedding.
- Press clean towels onto the area.
- Lift the towels and repeat with dry sections.
- Blot with a suitable cleaning solution if needed.
- Dry the mattress fully.
Press rather than rub. Rubbing can spread liquid across the surface.
Cleaning Older Stains
Older stains may need more than one light treatment. Repeat the blotting process instead of soaking the area with a large amount of cleaner.
Some stains need a product made for that specific material. Read the product listing and mattress care instructions before applying enzyme cleaners, upholstery sprays, oxygen-based products, or other stain removers.
Test any cleaner on a small, hidden area first. Stop if the fabric changes color, texture, or appearance.
Step 5: Use Baking Soda for Odors
Once stained areas are only slightly damp or fully dry, sprinkle a thin layer of baking soda over the mattress surface.
Leave it in place for several hours when possible. Then vacuum it up slowly and thoroughly.
Baking soda may help absorb some everyday odors, but it will not fix every odor problem. Strong or returning smells may mean that liquid has reached deeper mattress layers.
Do not mix baking soda with random household chemicals. Combining cleaners can damage the mattress or create unsafe fumes. Follow product directions and use one cleaning method at a time.
Step 6: Let the Mattress Dry Completely
Drying is one of the most important steps.
Open windows when weather and outdoor air quality allow. Run a fan across the mattress surface. A dehumidifier may also help in a damp room.
Keep sheets, protectors, and toppers off the bed until every cleaned area feels completely dry.
Avoid using a hair dryer, space heater, iron, or other strong heat source unless the mattress manufacturer specifically permits it. High heat can damage foam, adhesives, fibers, or the outer fabric.
Use as little moisture as possible; review materials, fit, care, safety, cleaning, drying, and performance before deciding what suits your needs.
Drying may take longer in humid weather, cold bedrooms, RVs, basements, and small rooms with little airflow.
Step 7: Clean Around the Bed
A clean mattress can quickly collect dust again if the nearby area is dirty.
Vacuum or wipe down:
- The bed frame
- Headboard
- Slats or platform
- Floor under the bed
- Baseboards
- Nearby nightstands
Check the frame for sharp edges, broken slats, or damp areas before replacing the mattress.
For an RV bed, inspect the platform and storage area below the mattress. Limited airflow can allow moisture to collect underneath, especially when the bed sits over an enclosed compartment.
Step 8: Add Clean Bedding and a Protector
Once the mattress is fully dry, put on clean bedding.
A washable mattress protector can make future cleanups easier. Choose one that fits the mattress depth without pulling tightly at the corners.
Pocket depth is the height of mattress that a fitted sheet or protector is designed to cover. Measure from the bottom of the mattress to its highest point, including a topper if the protector needs to fit over it.
Check the protector’s care label before washing or drying it. Waterproof layers can be damaged by some types of bleach, fabric softener, or high heat.
What to Avoid When Cleaning a Mattress
Do Not Soak It
Too much water can become trapped inside foam, fiber, or layered mattress materials. Use damp cloths rather than pouring or spraying large amounts of liquid.
Do Not Use a Steam Cleaner Without Checking
Steam adds heat and moisture. Some mattress makers do not recommend it because it can damage materials or leave the inside damp. Check the manufacturer’s current instructions first.
Do Not Use Harsh Chemicals Automatically
Bleach, strong disinfectants, solvents, and concentrated cleaners may discolor fabric or damage mattress materials. They can also leave strong odors behind.
Only use a product when both the product instructions and mattress guidance allow it.
Do Not Make the Bed While It Is Damp
Sheets and protectors can trap moisture. Wait until the mattress is fully dry, even when the surface seems nearly ready.
Do Not Remove an Unapproved Cover
A zipper does not always mean the mattress cover is washable or removable. Taking off the wrong cover may damage the mattress or make it hard to put back together.
How Often Should You Clean a Mattress?
Vacuuming the mattress every few months is a practical routine for many homes. Clean spills and stains as soon as you notice them.
You may need to vacuum more often when:
- Pets sleep on the bed
- Children use the mattress
- The bed is in a dusty room
- The mattress is in a dorm or guest room
- Food is eaten in bed
- Bedding is changed less often
- The mattress is stored in an RV or seasonal room
Wash sheets and washable protectors according to their care labels and household needs.
A guest-room mattress may not need frequent stain cleaning, but it can still collect dust while unused. Vacuum it and air out the room before guests arrive.
Can You Clean Different Mattress Types the Same Way?
The basic method is similar, but moisture and heat limits may differ.
Memory Foam and Other Foam Mattresses
Use very little liquid. Foam can hold moisture deep inside. Blot carefully and allow extra drying time.
Innerspring and Hybrid Mattresses
These mattresses still contain foam, fabric, and other absorbent layers. Avoid soaking them even though they have metal coils inside.
Pillow-Top Mattresses
A pillow top has an extra cushioned layer sewn onto the mattress. Its deeper stitching and soft surface can collect debris, so vacuum the seams carefully.
Natural Fiber Mattresses
Wool, cotton, latex, and other natural materials may require special care. Check the manufacturer’s instructions before using water, detergent, baking soda, or heat.
Crib and Kids’ Mattresses
Use cleaning products approved by the mattress maker and suitable for the surface. Keep children away from the mattress until it is clean, fully dry, and free of cleaner residue.
For waterproof crib mattress surfaces, follow the product’s specific wiping and disinfecting instructions.
When Home Cleaning May Not Be Enough
Basic home cleaning works best for dust, crumbs, light odors, and small surface stains.
Consider contacting the manufacturer or a suitable professional service when:
- A large amount of liquid soaked into the mattress
- The mattress stays damp
- A strong odor keeps returning
- The care instructions require professional cleaning
- The mattress has damage, torn fabric, or exposed inner materials
- The mattress contains powered or adjustable components that need special handling
Cleaning does not repair sagging, broken coils, crumbling foam, damaged seams, or worn support layers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wash a mattress with water?
You can use a small amount of water for spot cleaning when the mattress care instructions allow it. Do not soak the mattress. Apply cleaning solution to a cloth, blot the area, and dry it completely.
Can I use baking soda on any mattress?
Baking soda is commonly used for surface odors, but it may not be suitable for every mattress material or cover. Check the care label or manufacturer guidance first, especially for natural fiber and specialty mattresses.
How long should baking soda stay on a mattress?
Leave it for several hours when practical, then vacuum it up thoroughly. The exact time is less important than removing all the powder and keeping the mattress dry.
Can I use a carpet cleaner on a mattress?
Do not use a carpet-cleaning machine unless the mattress manufacturer clearly allows it. These machines can apply too much water and may leave moisture inside the mattress.
How can I dry a mattress faster?
Increase airflow with open windows, a fan, or a dehumidifier when appropriate. Keep bedding off the mattress. Avoid strong direct heat unless the manufacturer says it is safe.
Should I flip the mattress while cleaning it?
Only flip the mattress if it is designed to be used on both sides. Many modern mattresses are one-sided. Some can be rotated from head to foot instead. Check the manufacturer’s guidance.
Can I sleep on the mattress after spot cleaning?
Wait until the cleaned area is completely dry. Covering or sleeping on a damp mattress can trap moisture and slow the drying process.
Does a mattress protector stop the mattress from getting dirty?
A protector can reduce stains, spills, sweat, hair, and everyday debris reaching the mattress. It does not replace regular sheet washing, vacuuming, or prompt spill cleanup. Choose a washable protector that fits the mattress depth and follow its care label.
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