How To Clean Mattress After Covid?
Cleaning a mattress after recovering from COVID-19 is crucial to ensure the removal of any lingering viruses, bacteria, and germs, providing for a healthy and fresh sleeping environment. The essential steps typically involve vacuuming, spot cleaning, disinfection, and airing the mattress thoroughly.
Vacuuming the Mattress
Vacuuming is the first step in cleaning your mattress after COVID-19. Begin by stripping the bed of all linens, pillows, and mattress protectors, and place them directly into the washing machine with hot water to eliminate any possible contaminants. Use an upholstery attachment on your vacuum cleaner to meticulously vacuum the entire surface of the mattress. Ensure that you focus on the seams and crevices where dust, dead skin cells, and other particles may accumulate. This process helps to remove any initial dirt and germs, setting the stage for a more in-depth cleaning routine.
Spot Cleaning Stains
After vacuuming, inspect the mattress for any visible stains or spots. Handle these stains carefully to prevent them from becoming permanent. Use a mild detergent mixed with water to create a soapy solution. Apply the solution to the stained areas using a clean cloth or sponge, and gently dab—rather than rub—the stains. Rubbing can push the stains deeper into the mattress or damage the fabric. For tougher stains, you can use a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and baking soda, which works as an excellent stain remover without damaging the mattress material. Always test any cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the mattress first to ensure it doesn’t cause discoloration or damage.
Disinfecting the Mattress
Disinfecting is a critical step to terminate any remaining germs or viruses. Use an EPA-approved disinfectant spray that is safe for fabrics. It’s essential to read the product label to ensure it’s suitable for use on mattresses and to follow the instructions carefully. Lightly mist the disinfectant across the mattress surface. Avoid soaking the material, as excessive moisture can lead to mold and mildew growth. Some disinfectants may require a certain amount of time to be effective, so give it time to work as specified on the product instructions.
Our Top 5 Mattress Picks
Updated September 2026EGOHOME 8-Inch Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress, Full, Medium Firm
Best for most bedrooms. A medium-firm green tea memory foam mattress with a cooling gel layer, delivered rolled in a box.
- Full size, 8 in
- Medium firm
- Cooling green tea gel
- CertiPUR-US, fiberglass free
OhGeni Queen Air Mattress with Built-in Pump, 18-Inch Raised
Best for guests and camping. Inflates in about three minutes with the built-in pump and sits 18 inches off the floor, so it feels like a real bed.
- Queen, 18 in raised
- Built-in pump
- 800 lb capacity
- Waterproof PVC
Novilla 6-Inch Gel Memory Foam Mattress, Twin
Best budget twin. A slim gel memory foam twin that suits kids' rooms, bunk beds and trundles where a thick mattress won't fit.
- Twin, 6 in
- Gel memory foam
- Cooling
- CertiPUR-US
Zinus 8-Inch Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress, Twin
Best-known brand. Zinus's long-running green tea foam design in twin size, with both CertiPUR-US and OEKO-TEX certified materials.
- Twin, 8 in
- Green tea memory foam
- CertiPUR-US & OEKO-TEX
GAESTE 8-Inch Cooling Gel Memory Foam Mattress, Full, Medium Feel
Best for hot sleepers. Cooling gel memory foam with a medium feel, plus a machine-washable, anti-slip cover you can actually clean.
- Full size, 8 in
- Medium feel
- Cooling gel foam
- Washable cover
- Fiberglass free
Using a Steam Cleaner
For a deeper clean, consider using a steam cleaner. Steam cleaning effectively kills bacteria, viruses, and dust mites without leaving behind harmful chemicals. Steam the mattress thoroughly, ensuring all areas, including the sides and seams, are treated. Pay extra attention to the temperature settings as high temperatures are more effective at killing pathogens. Let the mattress dry completely before making the bed. It may take a few hours to dry, so ensure good ventilation in the room to speed up the drying process.
Baking Soda for Odor Removal
After dealing with stains and disinfecting, there may still be lingering odors. Baking soda is an excellent and natural deodorizer. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda evenly across the entire mattress surface. Leave it to sit for several hours, preferably a whole day, to absorb any remaining moisture and odors. Once the baking soda has had time to work its magic, vacuum it up thoroughly.
Airing the Mattress
One of the simplest yet most effective ways to freshen up a mattress is to let it air out. If weather permits, place the mattress in direct sunlight for several hours. Sunlight is a natural disinfectant and can help eliminate odors and kill remaining germs. If moving the mattress outside is not feasible, opening windows and using fans to circulate fresh air into the room will also help in airing it out.
Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is important to keep your mattress clean and extend its lifespan. Use a mattress protector to shield your mattress from spills, dust, and allergens. Vacuum the mattress surface routinely to remove any accumulated dust and debris. Ensure that bedding is washed frequently, especially if someone has been ill. Regularly flip and rotate the mattress to encourage even wear and to prevent sagging.
Additional Tips
If you or a family member has had COVID-19 or any other contagious illness, it’s wise to take extra precautions with cleaning. You can consider using a specialized mattress sanitizer or ultraviolet (UV) light sanitizer. These devices can effectively eliminate viruses and bacteria. However, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid damaging the mattress.
In addition, always wear gloves and a mask when cleaning to protect yourself from exposure to germs and cleaning agents. After completing the mattress cleaning, wash your hands thoroughly and dispose of any cleaning materials that cannot be sanitized.
Professional Cleaning Services
Sometimes, professional help might be necessary, especially if the mattress is heavily soiled or if you want to ensure a comprehensive cleaning. Professional cleaning services have specialized equipment and expertise to deep clean and sanitize mattresses. They can handle tough stains, odors, and disinfect the mattress effectively. If you choose to go this route, ensure that the cleaning service is reputable and uses safe and eco-friendly cleaning products.
Finishing Thoughts
Knowing how to clean a mattress after COVID-19 is vital for maintaining a healthy sleep environment. By following the steps of vacuuming, spot cleaning, disinfecting, steam cleaning, deodorizing with baking soda, and airing the mattress, you can ensure that your mattress is fresh, clean, and free of harmful pathogens. Regular maintenance and taking extra precautions when someone has been ill can help extend the life of your mattress and provide a safe and comfortable sleeping space. Whether you opt for DIY methods or seek professional services, keeping your mattress clean is an essential part of overall home hygiene, especially in the wake of a global pandemic.
