Getting rid of bad smells from a mattress involves several steps including airing out the mattress, using baking soda, and applying various household cleaning solutions. The key is to first remove any bedding and wash it, then sprinkle baking soda over the entire surface of the mattress and let it sit for a few hours before vacuuming it up. If the odor persists, you may need to use enzyme cleaners or create a mixture of white vinegar and water to treat the affected areas.
Understanding Mattress Odors
To address odors effectively, it’s crucial to understand what causes them. Mattress smells can come from various sources, including sweat, body oils, urine, mold, and mild food and beverage spills. Over time, these can seep into your mattress, creating an environment that’s not just smelly but also hospitable to dust mites, bacteria, and other allergens.
Sweat and Body Oils
When we sleep, our bodies continue to perspire and produce oils. These substances can penetrate the layers of our mattress and cause an odor over time.
Accidents and Spills
Spills from beverages, urine accidents from pets or children, or dropped food can lead to odors if not cleaned promptly and thoroughly.
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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GAESTE 8-Inch Cooling Gel Memory Foam Mattress, Full, Medium Feel
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Mold and Mildew
A mattress that becomes damp and doesn’t dry properly is at risk for mold and mildew, which can produce a musty, unpleasant smell.
Airing Out the Mattress
One of the simplest and most effective ways to combat mattress odors is to air it out regularly. If possible, take your mattress outside on a sunny, breezy day. The UV rays from the sun can help kill bacteria and mold on the surface of your mattress, while the fresh air can help flush out trapped odors.
Ventilation
If taking the mattress outside isn’t feasible, remove all the bedding and let the mattress breathe by creating a well-ventilated environment. Open windows or use a fan to help circulate the air in the room.
Using Baking Soda
Baking soda is a natural deodorizer and is excellent for neutralizing smells. Here’s how to use it:
Step-by-Step Application
1. Strip the bed of all sheets and covers.
2. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the entire surface of the mattress.
3. Rub the baking soda in slightly with your hands or a brush to ensure it penetrates the surface.
4. Allow the baking soda to sit for several hours or, ideally, overnight.
5. Vacuum the baking soda thoroughly from the mattress.
For persistent odors, you may want to repeat this process more than once.
Adding Essential Oils
For a pleasant fragrance, consider mixing a few drops of your favorite essential oil with the baking soda before you apply it to the mattress.
Cleaning Solutions for Mattress Odors
Enzymatic Cleaners
Enzyme cleaners can break down the molecules that cause odors, such as those found in urine or vomit. Follow the directions on the cleaner and apply it to the affected areas, allowing it to sit for the specified time before blotting or rinsing it away.
Vinegar and Water Solution
Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Lightly spritz the solution over the mattress, being careful not to soak it. Let the mattress air dry completely. The vinegar smell will dissipate, taking other odors with it.
Tackling Stubborn Odors
If the above methods aren’t enough to eliminate the odor from your mattress, consider the following:
Professional Cleaning
For deep odors or stubborn stains, a professional mattress cleaning might be necessary. Look for cleaning services that specialize in mattress care to ensure your mattress gets the right treatment.
Replacing the Mattress
In cases where a mattress is old and the odor is deeply embedded, the most effective solution might be to replace the mattress entirely.
Preventive Measures
Mattress Protectors
Using a mattress protector is one of the best ways to prevent odors from developing in the first place. A good quality, waterproof mattress protector will shield your mattress from sweat, oils, spills, and accidents.
Regular Washing of Bedding
Regularly wash all your bedding, including sheets, blankets, comforters, and mattress pads, to keep smells at bay.
Good Hygiene Practices
Showering before bed and avoiding eating or drinking in bed can significantly decrease the likelihood of odors becoming a problem.
Finishing Thoughts
Eliminating bad smells from a mattress requires a multi-faceted approach. Regular airing out and the use of baking soda can keep odors at bay, while targeted cleaning solutions like vinegar or enzyme cleaners are needed for tougher smells. Prevention, through the use of mattress protectors and good hygiene practices, can also play a crucial role in maintaining a fresh, clean mattress. Remember, consistent care is key to ensuring your sleeping environment remains pleasant and conducive to a good night’s rest.
