When an unfortunate incident such as vomiting occurs on a mattress, it’s important to act quickly to clean and disinfect the area. To clean puke from a mattress, strip the bed of linens, blot the excess, and then clean the spot with a solution of baking soda, liquid dish soap, and hydrogen peroxide. Sprinkle baking soda over the affected area to help absorb moisture and neutralize odors, and then vacuum it up. To ensure thorough disinfection and remove any persistent stains, consider using an enzyme cleaner, and afterward, let the mattress air dry completely.
Cleaning Up Immediately
Step 1: Remove Bedding
First things first, promptly remove any bedding, pillows, or other covers, and wash them according to the care label instructions. Hot water can help to kill any bacteria and remove stains.
Step 2: Blotting
Using paper towels or a clean, dry cloth, gently blot the soiled area to soak up any excess fluid. It’s important to blot, not rub, as rubbing can push the vomit deeper into the mattress.
Step 3: Preparing the Cleaning Solution
Mix a tablespoon of liquid dish soap, a tablespoon of baking soda, and a cup of hydrogen peroxide in a spray bottle to create a potent cleaning mixture. You can also add a few drops of essential oil, like lavender or tea tree oil, for added disinfection and a pleasant scent.
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
Applying the Cleaning Solution
Step 1: Testing the Cleaning Solution
Before applying your cleaning solution, test it on a small, inconspicuous area of the mattress to ensure it doesn’t cause discoloration or damage to the fabric.
Step 2: Application
Once you’re sure that the solution is safe for your mattress, lightly spray it onto the affected area. Do not over-saturate the mattress, as this can promote mold growth.
Step 3: Absorbing and Neutralizing Odors
After applying the cleaning solution, let it sit for about 10-15 minutes. Then sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the entire surface where the vomit was present. This will not only absorb moisture but will also help to neutralize odors.
Step 4: Vacuuming
Allow the baking soda to sit for a few hours, or even overnight if possible, and then vacuum it up with an upholstery attachment. The goal is to remove all the baking soda along with any lingering odors or residue.
Addressing Stains and Odors
Using Enzyme Cleaners
If a stain or odor persists, consider using a commercial enzyme-based cleaner formulated for pet stains and odors. These are particularly effective at breaking down organic matter. Follow the instructions on the product thoroughly for the best results.
Alternative Solutions
If commercial products are not on hand or preferred, white vinegar mixed with water can be used as an alternative solution for odor removal and disinfection. Apply this solution using the same spray and blot method as described earlier.
Drying and Ensuring a Clean Mattress
Air Drying
After cleaning the mattress, it is critical to let it air dry completely. Ensure good ventilation by opening windows, using a fan, or even a hairdryer on a cool setting to expedite the process.
Protecting the Mattress
Once dry, using a high-quality mattress protector can help shield your mattress from future accidents. Protectors can usually be machine washed and provide a waterproof barrier.
Preventive Measures and Maintenance
Regular Vacuuming
To maintain a clean mattress, regular vacuuming is recommended. Once a month, vacuum the surface and sides of the mattress to remove dust and potential allergens which also contributes to overall freshness.
Deodorizing Periodically
Every few months, freshen up the mattress by sprinkling baking soda across the surface, leaving it for at least 30 minutes, and then vacuuming it off. This is a simple way to keep odors at bay.
Flipping and Rotating
Flipping and rotating your mattress every three to six months can help to maintain even wear and extend the life of the mattress.
Using a Mattress Pad
A mattress pad not only provides additional comfort but can also absorb moisture, helping to protect the integrity of the mattress.
Finishing Thoughts
Cleaning up vomit from a mattress can be an unpleasant task, but acting quickly and thoroughly can mitigate the damage and restore your mattress without lasting effects. It’s important to be gentle yet methodical with cleaning, utilizing products that not only clean but also disinfect and deodorize. Don’t forget to allow your mattress to dry completely to prevent mold and ensure a fresh, clean sleeping environment. Finally, consider adding protective layers such as a mattress pad or protector to safeguard against future spills and stains. By following these steps diligently, your mattress can be salvaged, ensuring a clean and healthy sleep surface for the nights ahead.
