Vacuum, spot clean with mild detergent, use baking soda to absorb odors, and steam clean for a thorough deep clean.
A clean mattress is key to better sleep and health. Dust mites, sweat, and stains build up over time, even with regular sheet changes. Follow this complete guide to deep clean your mattress and extend its life.
Why Deep Clean Your Mattress?
Mattresses collect dead skin cells, sweat, and allergens. Cleaning removes dust mites, bacteria, and odors. It also prevents pest infestations. Experts recommend deep cleaning every 6 months.
What You’ll Need
- Vacuum with upholstery attachment
- Baking soda
- Hydrogen peroxide or white vinegar
- Mild dish soap or laundry detergent
- Clean cloths or sponges
- Spray bottle
Step-by-Step Deep Cleaning Process
1. Strip All Bedding
Remove sheets, mattress covers, and pillowcases. Wash in hot water (at least 130°F) to kill dust mites and bacteria. Dry on high heat. For pillows, check if they’re machine washable.
2. Vacuum Thoroughly
Use your vacuum’s upholstery attachment. Go over the entire surface, paying special attention to seams and edges. Vacuuming removes dust, dead skin, and allergens. For best results, use a vacuum designed for mattresses.
3. Spot Clean Stains
For General Stains:
Mix 1 tsp mild dish soap with 1 cup warm water. Dab (don’t rub) stains with a clean cloth. Blot dry.
For Urine Stains:
Blot first, then spray with 50/50 white vinegar and water. Let sit 10 minutes before blotting dry.
For Blood Stains:
Use cold water and hydrogen peroxide. Never use hot water on blood stains.
4. Deodorize with Baking Soda
Sprinkle baking soda over the entire mattress. Let sit for several hours or overnight. This absorbs odors and moisture. For extra freshness, add a few drops of essential oil to the baking soda.
5. Vacuum Again
After the baking soda treatment, vacuum the mattress again to remove all residue.
6. Flip or Rotate Mattress
If your mattress is double-sided, flip it over. For single-sided, rotate it 180 degrees. This ensures even wear.
7. Steam Clean (Optional)
For deep sanitizing, use a steam cleaner on your mattress. The heat kills dust mites and bacteria. Ensure the mattress dries completely before remaking the bed.
Special Stain Treatments
| Stain Type | Treatment |
|---|---|
| Sweat | Baking soda paste (baking soda + water) |
| Urine | Enzyme cleaner or vinegar solution |
| Blood | Cold water + hydrogen peroxide |
| Beverage | Club soda or mild detergent |
Mattress Protection Tips
- Use a waterproof mattress protector
- Rotate mattress every 3 months
- Air out mattress monthly by removing bedding for a few hours
- Vacuum mattress when changing sheets
- Consider using organic cleaning products for regular maintenance
When to Replace Your Mattress
Even with proper cleaning, mattresses typically last 7-10 years. Signs you need a new one:
- Visible sagging or lumps
- You wake up with stiffness or pain
- Allergy symptoms worsen at night
- Noticeable odors persist after cleaning
For stubborn stains or odors, professional cleaning may be needed. Some companies specialize in mattress deep cleaning services.