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How to Clean a Mattress

by Melissa Jane Jones on July 11, 2024
A properly maintained mattress can dramatically improve your sleep quality and increase the life of your bed. In this guide, we'll guide you through the most effective methods to clean your mattress, with great tips to prevent stains and prolong the life of your bed.

Let's get started on converting your mattress from a mess to healthy and hygienic, arming you with the best and most effective ways to keep your mattress clean.

 

What Supplies Do You Need to Start Cleaning?

Before you begin cleaning your mattress, you should gather the necessary supplies for an effective and thorough job.

 

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • A vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment
  • Mild laundry detergent
  • Baking soda
  • White vinegar
  • A spray bottle
  • Clean cloths or towels
  • Enzyme cleaner (for tough stains)
  • Mattress protector (for future maintenance)

 

How to Clean Stains Off a Mattress?

Cleaning your mattress involves several steps to ensure it’s hygienic and free of allergens and stains. Follow these steps for a comprehensive clean:

1. Strip the Bedding:

Start by removing all bedding, including sheets, pillowcases, and mattress protectors. Wash these items according to their care labels to eliminate dust mites and allergens.

2. Wash the Covers and Sheets:

While the bedding is in the wash, move on to the mattress itself. Washing your bedding regularly, at least once a week, can help keep your mattress cleaner for longer.

3. Clean the Mattress with a Vacuum:

Using the upholstery attachment on your vacuum cleaner, thoroughly vacuum the entire surface of the mattress. Pay special attention to seams and crevices where dust and debris tend to accumulate.

4. Remove Stains with Cleaners:

For spot cleaning stains, mix a mild laundry detergent with water and apply it to the stained area using a clean cloth. Gently blot the stain, avoiding soaking the mattress. For more stubborn stains, an enzyme cleaner can be particularly effective.

 

How to Deep Clean a Mattress at Home?

For a deeper clean, especially if it’s been a while since you last cleaned your mattress, follow these additional steps:

Use a Vacuum

Vacuum the mattress again, focusing on any areas that may have been missed during the initial clean. This ensures all dust and allergens are removed.

Flip the Mattress

If your mattress is double-sided, flip it over and repeat the vacuuming process. Rotating and flipping your mattress every few months can also help it wear more evenly and last longer.

For Really Bad Stains

Stains from urine, vomit, and blood can be particularly challenging to remove. We’d suggest using gloves for this and have all your equipment within easy reach for maximum effectiveness.

How to Clean Urine From Mattress:

Blot as much of the urine as possible with a clean cloth. Then, mix a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle and apply it to the stain. Blot again and sprinkle baking soda over the area to absorb any remaining moisture and odour. Vacuum the baking soda once it’s dry.

How to Clean Vomit From Mattress:

Remove any solid matter and blot the liquid with a cloth. Use an enzyme cleaner to break down the proteins in the vomit and blot with a clean cloth. Follow up with a vinegar and water solution if necessary.

How to Remove Blood Stains From Mattress:

Blot the stain with a cloth soaked in cold water (hot water can set the stain). Apply an enzyme cleaner and gently rub the area with a clean cloth. For older stains, a paste made of baking soda and water can be applied and left to sit before blotting and vacuuming.

If you have tried all these methods without success, it might be time to call in a professional cleaner who can assist you with removing very heavy stains.

 

Tips for Keeping Your Mattress Clean For Longer

Maintaining a clean mattress doesn’t stop at the occasional deep clean. Here are some helpful tips to keep your mattress in top condition for years to come:

A Mattress Protector

Investing in a quality mattress protector can prevent stains and spills from reaching your mattress. It’s much easier to wash a mattress protector regularly than to clean the mattress itself.

Deodorise with Baking Soda

Sprinkle baking soda over your mattress and let it sit for a few hours before vacuuming it off. Baking soda naturally absorbs odours and moisture, leaving your mattress fresh and clean.

 

Common FAQs

What is the best ingredient to clean mattresses?

Baking soda is one of the best ingredients for cleaning mattresses. It’s excellent for deodorising and removing moisture, and it’s gentle enough to use regularly without damaging the fabric.

Does vinegar clean mattresses?

Yes, white vinegar is an effective cleaner for mattresses. It’s particularly useful for tackling tough stains and neutralising odours. However, it should be used in a diluted solution to avoid saturating the mattress. We suggest doing a patch test on your mattress.

Can you use a steam cleaner to clean a mattress?

While steam cleaning can be effective, it’s not always recommended for all mattress types. Excess moisture from steam can lead to mould and mildew if the mattress isn’t dried thoroughly. Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines before using a steam cleaner on your mattress.

 

Ask a Professional at House 2 Home

For the best advice on maintaining your bed, consult our experts at House 2 Home. Our team can provide personal tailored tips to keep your mattress clean so you enjoy a healthy and restful night’s sleep.

We have a wide collection of furniture in our store and online for you to explore. We’re here to help you make your house truly feel like home.

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