The Most Effective Way to Clean ANY Type of Mattress, According to an Expert

Keep your rest nest clean with these pro tips.

Author:
Maryn Liles
Nov 20, 2024

With daily use, it’s common for mattresses to get dirty, dusty, or even a bit smelly due to things like night sweats, pet dander, spills, and the like—but luckily, there are easy and effective methods for how to clean a mattress that will perk yours up in no time! After all, a clean, fresh-smelling mattress (paired with the perfect bedding set!) Is a must for creating a sleep sanctuary that ensures consistently high-quality sleep.

The good news: Regardless of which type of mattress you use, the best way to clean a mattress is the same for all types. According to Bob Naboicheck, CEO of Gold Bond mattresses, "The best cleaning method does not change from mattress to mattress, regardless if it is spring, foam or latex,” which makes caring for your mattress easy. (And for the record, yes—these methods also apply to memory foam mattress toppers!)

Best Ways to Clean a Mattress

The best tips for how to clean a mattress apply to all types of mattresses, from memory foam mattresses to budget-friendly mattresses under $1,000 to everything in between.

How to Clean a Smelly Mattress

For whole-mattress cleaning (which is only necessary to eliminate odors, not stains), you’ll need baking soda and a vacuum. Avoid using liquid cleaners of any sort—even water. “Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the entire surface of the mattress. Let it sit for about 15 minutes to help absorb moisture and odors, then vacuum it up using the upholstery attachment,” says Lisa Muentener, research chemist at ARM & HAMMER Baking Soda. “This will refresh the mattress and help to remove odors.”

Of course, you should “Always check use and cleaning instructions on your products first, including mattresses and washing machines. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper care of those products,” Muentener cautions.

“After cleaning, it’s best to let your mattress air out for several hours in a well-ventilated area, such as near a window or a fan. This helps baking soda to neutralize odors and help remove residual moisture,” says Muentener.

Step 1: Sprinkle with baking soda
Step 2: Let baking soda sit for 15 minutes
Step 3: Vacuum up baking soda
Step 4: Allow to air out for 2-3 hours
Step 5: Cover the mattress with a waterproof protector

How to Spot Clean a Dirty Mattress

Unless your mattress is smelly, there’s no need to clean the entire surface. “With mattresses, there is no need to dust with baking soda and then vacuum, like you would a sofa or rug,” Naboicheck explains. Instead, focus only on the dirty areas to avoid exposing your mattress to unnecessary moisture. To spot clean your mattress, “Take a lightly damp cloth with a small amount of baking soda and scrub the area that needs to be cleaned,” says Naboicheck.

Remember, limiting the amount of moisture is key, so squeeze as much moisture from your cloth as possible—there should be no drips whatsoever and your cloth should feel nearly dry to the touch. “Foam and latex mattresses are more sensitive to moisture,” Muentener explains, “so it’s especially important to avoid using too much liquid when spot-cleaning. Always check manufacturing instructions for cleaning and care of your mattress,” she cautions, and don’t forget to air out your mattress for a few hours after spot cleaning to allow any moisture to fully dry out.

Step 1: Lightly dampen a cloth
Step 2: Sprinkle a small amount of baking soda on stains
Step 3: Scrub the stain with the cloth
Step 4: Allow to air out for 2-3 hours
Step 5: Cover the mattress with a waterproof protector

Ways to Keep Your Mattress Clean Long-Term

Prevention is key: "The best thing you can do for a mattress when you get it is to prevent it from needing to be cleaned to begin with. It is imperative that when you get a new mattress, add a mattress pad and a two-sided mattress protector to keep your bed dry and safe from spills,” Naboicheck says. “Once a mattress gets wet and it seeps into the foam and coils inside, it is susceptible to mold growth and more.”
Rotate it regularly: “In addition to regular cleaning with ARM & HAMMER Baking Soda, consider rotating or flipping your mattress every few months to ensure even wear and keep it fresh for longer,” Muentener says.
Avoid moisture at all costs: "Never use liquid of any kind to clean a mattress, regardless of it is a cleaning solution, water or detergent. Once a liquid seeps into the mattress, even if it is for cleaning purposes, it can ruin the foam and cotton inside,” says Naboicheck. More importantly, you risk causing “the mattress to become too wet, which can lead to mold or mildew growth,” adds Meuntener. “If you must spot clean with water, it’s best to use a minimal amount and blot it up immediately until dry.”