When it comes to keeping your mattress clean, a number of household staples, such as baking soda, distilled white vinegar, laundry detergent, and dish soap, can be used effectively. Before diving into the methods and products that can help to keep your mattress in pristine condition, it’s essential to mention that it is always best to refer to your mattress’s care guidelines provided by the manufacturer.
Understanding Your Mattress
Every mattress is different, and cleaning practices can vary depending on the type of mattress you own. Knowing whether you have a memory foam, innerspring, or hybrid mattress will determine the most suitable cleaning approach. For instance, memory foam can be particularly sensitive to water, and water-based cleaning methods should be used with care.
Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is crucial for extending the life of your mattress and maintaining a clean sleeping environment.
Vacuuming
Vacuuming is the first and simplest step to removing dust, dander, and other particles from the surface. An upholstery attachment is ideal for this job, allowing you to get into the seams where dust and allergens might hide.
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
Spot Cleaning
For spills and stains, spot cleaning is your best bet. It’s important to treat stains as soon as possible to prevent them from setting in. Use a mild detergent or dish soap diluted with water, dip a clean cloth into the solution, and gently blot the stain. Avoid scrubbing vigorously, as this can drive the stain deeper into the mattress material.
Deodorizing the Mattress
If your mattress has developed an odor or you simply want to freshen it up, baking soda is a powerful natural deodorizer.
Using Baking Soda
Sprinkle a light layer of baking soda over the entire surface of the mattress and let it sit for several hours or, even better, overnight. Baking soda works to neutralize odors and absorb moisture. After the allotted time, vacuum the baking soda thoroughly from the mattress.
Removing Stains
Stains can come from a variety of sources, such as bodily fluids or spilled beverages, and each may require a different approach.
Hydrogen Peroxide and Baking Soda Mixture
Hydrogen peroxide can help lift more stubborn stains when mixed with baking soda and a small amount of liquid dish soap. Apply this mixture sparingly to the stain, allow it to bubble, then gently dab it away after a few minutes.
Enzyme Cleaners
Enzyme cleaners are particularly effective for protein-based stains like urine or blood. These cleaners break down the proteins and can eliminate odors as well. Apply according to the directions on the product, being careful not to oversaturate the mattress.
Cleaning Memory Foam Mattresses
Memory foam requires a gentler touch as it’s more susceptible to damage from liquids and vigorous movement.
Mild Detergent and Water
Mix a small amount of mild detergent with water and lightly apply to the surface with a sponge or cloth. Gently wipe without saturating the foam, then blot any excess moisture with a dry cloth.
Drying Memory Foam
Memory foam should be allowed to air dry completely before covering it with bedding. A fan or dehumidifier can speed up the process, but avoid direct heat like hair dryers, as this can damage the material.
Dealing With Odors and Allergens
For deeper cleaning to combat odors and allergens, a mixture of distilled white vinegar and water can be used.
Vinegar and Water Solution
Mix equal parts of vinegar and water in a spray bottle, and lightly spritz the mattress surface. Vinegar is a natural disinfectant and deodorizer, but it must be used sparingly to avoid soaking the mattress. After application, let the mattress dry completely.
Protecting Your Mattress
Using a mattress protector can limit the frequency of deep cleanings by keeping spills, dust, and allergens at bay. They come in various materials and can be water-resistant or water-proof, hypoallergenic, and even cooling.
Professional Cleaning
While home remedies can be effective, there may be times when a professional mattress cleaning service is warranted. This is particularly true for severe stains or if the mattress has been affected by bedbugs or mold.
Mattress Cleaning Services
Professional mattress cleaning services use industrial methods, such as steam cleaning or ultraviolet light treatment, which can provide a deeper clean than most DIY methods.
When to Hire Professionals
Consider hiring a professional if your mattress has deep, old, or particularly stubborn stains, an infestation of pests, or for periodic deep cleanings, especially if someone in your household suffers from severe allergies.
Finishing Thoughts
Cleaning your mattress is an essential part of maintaining a healthy sleep environment. Using household products like baking soda, vinegar, and detergents, you can tackle most cleaning tasks yourself. Remember to focus on regular maintenance, spot cleaning, and the use of a protective cover to prolong your mattress’s life. However, when encountering stubborn issues or allergic reactions, don’t hesitate to seek professional cleaning services. A clean mattress not only contributes to better sleep quality but also enhances the overall health and wellbeing of you and your family.
