Drying a mattress quickly is essential to prevent the growth of mold and mildew, which thrive in moist environments. To accomplish this, you can use a combination of airflow, heat, and absorption. The fastest way involves removing as much moisture as manually possible using towels, then applying direct airflow with a fan, and if the weather permits, placing the mattress in direct sunlight, which naturally speeds up the drying process with its warmth and UV rays. In an emergency, a hairdryer set on a cool setting might also help. However, all these methods should be complemented by allowing the mattress ample time to air out completely.
Effective Steps to Dry a Mattress Quickly
Step 1: Remove Excess Moisture
Start by blotting up as much moisture as possible from the mattress using clean, dry towels. Press down firmly on the towels to absorb the wetness. Do not rub to prevent spreading the moisture around. You can stand on the towels to use your body weight to help press out the moisture.
Step 2: Use a Fan or Air Mover
Set up a fan or air mover directly facing the wet area of the mattress. An air mover is much more powerful than a standard fan and can dramatically speed up the drying process. If you do not have an air mover, a standing or box fan will still be effective. The air movement helps wick away the moisture and dries the mattress more quickly.
Step 3: Apply Heat and Dehumidify
If you have a hairdryer, you can use it on a cool or warm setting to help dry the mattress. Avoid using high heat, as this can damage the mattress material. Simultaneously, using a dehumidifier in the room will help by removing moisture from the air, speeding up the drying process.
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
Step 4: Use Baking Soda
After the initial moisture is blotted out, sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the wet area. Baking soda is highly absorbent and will help pull out more moisture from the mattress. Allow the baking soda to sit on the surface for several hours, then vacuum it up. This step also aids in neutralizing odors.
Step 5: Place the Mattress in Sunlight
If it’s a sunny day, one of the most effective ways to dry your mattress is to place it outside in direct sunlight. The natural heat from the sun will help evaporate the moisture, and UV rays have a sanitizing effect. Remember to flip the mattress to ensure both sides dry evenly.
Step 6: Increase Room Temperature
If you can’t take the mattress outside, try turning up the heat in the room slightly. Warmer air can hold more moisture and will help speed up the evaporation process from the mattress. This works best if you are also using a fan and a dehumidifier.
Step 7: Repeat as Necessary
Depending on how much moisture is in the mattress, you may need to repeat these steps to get it fully dry. Patience is key. Make sure the mattress is completely dry before putting sheets back on to avoid the problems of mold or mildew.
Best Practices for Drying a Wet Mattress
Do not Rush the Process
While your aim is to dry the mattress quickly, rushing the process can lead to issues. Ensure the mattress is fully dry before using it again to prevent mold and mildew growth.
Ensure Good Air Circulation
Good air circulation is critical. Open windows or use an additional fan to keep the air moving around the room where the mattress is drying, as this will facilitate faster drying.
Protect Your Mattress
To avoid future issues, consider using a waterproof mattress protector. These covers prevent liquids from penetrating and can save you from having to dry a wet mattress again.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Dealing with Mold and Mildew
If your mattress has already developed mold or mildew, you’ll likely need to take additional steps beyond drying. Using a solution of vinegar and water can help kill mold spores. Apply the solution lightly and make sure to dry the mattress thoroughly afterward.
When to Seek Professional Help
If your mattress is severely water-damaged, or the above methods are not working, it might be time to call in a professional mattress cleaning service. They have industrial tools and methods to effectively dry and sanitize the mattress.
Finishing Thoughts
When confronted with a wet mattress, taking action to dry it quickly is crucial. Using the steps outlined above can prevent the headache of dealing with mold and extend the life of your mattress. Always handle the process gently to avoid damage and remember that drying a mattress thoroughly is more important than doing it hastily. With patience and diligent care, your mattress can be restored to a dry, comfortable state, ready for a good night’s sleep.
