By While your bed is a great place for sleep, curling up with a good book, relaxing and watching a movie, it’s also a hotspot for germs. That’s right! Over time, your mattress can collect dust, allergens and bacteria, which aren’t good for your health. And if you’ve never cleaned one before, it may seem like a daunting chore. However, scrubbing it every so often is easier than you’d think—and necessary. Here, experts break down how to clean a mattress with easy-to-follow instructions, plus all the supplies you’ll need to make your bed look brand new.
Why is it important to clean your mattress?
If you’ve never cleaned your entire mattress, there’s a good chance it’s one of the filthiest items in your home. Think about it: It’s where you spend 1/3 of your life, explains Forrest Webber, the owner of Bear Brothers Cleaning. “Over time, our mattresses collect sweat, bodily oils and dust,” he says.
While your sheets may act as a protective barrier, they are not enough to completely block bacteria from getting to the mattress. That’s why doing a deep clean here and there is key. Webber adds that if you notice black or brown stains on your mattress, it’s time to clean it.
Additionally, a new mattress can cost well over $2,000. If it isn’t cared for, it will likely have an average lifespan of five to seven years. Fortunately, regularly DIY cleaning the entire surface of your mattress can boost this life expectancy to eight to 12 years.
How to clean a mattress
Before washing and scrubbing, you want to ensure you have all the supplies you need. Webber suggests using these items to make your mattress pristine:
- Vacuum
- Spray bottle
- White vinegar
- Baking soda
- Mild soap or laundry detergent
- A couple of clean clothes
Here, a step-by-step guide to cleaning a mattress:
Remove the covers
The first step in cleaning a mattress is stripping it down. This means removing any blankets, sheets, pillows or mattress pads, explains Webber. Then, put everything in the washer to kill bacteria, remove dirt and ensure the washer is set to a bedding cycle.
Vacuum the surface
“Grab a vacuum with an upholstery attachment and thoroughly go over the mattress, paying extra attention to seams and crevices where dust likes to hide,” says Leslie Kilgour, professional organizer, home hack expert and founder of Get It Straight on Long Island.
Tackle the stains
For any stains, Kilgour says it’s best to blot (don’t rub!) with a damp cloth. “If the stain is stubborn, mix a little hydrogen peroxide and dish soap, apply it to the area, and gently blot again.”
Deodorize the mattress
This is where the baking soda is helpful. “Sprinkle it over the mattress and leave it there for at least an hour,” says Webber. “ If you have time, leave it longer—it will absorb all the funky smells.”
Air out the mattress in the sun
If possible, let your mattress dry outside or in an area with a lot of sunlight. This kills any remaining bacteria and dries up any moisture, explains Webber.
Ensure it’s completely dry
Before putting any bedding back on, it’s key to make sure your mattress is dry all the way through on both sides. If you’re able to dry it in the sun, you shouldn’t have to worry.
Expert tips for mattress maintenance
One of the biggest mistakes you can make when cleaning is soaking your mattress. “Mattresses are super absorbent, and excess moisture can lead to mold and mildew,” says Kilgour. You also want to avoid harsh chemicals, as these can break down materials and leave behind strong odors.
Kilgour also notes that you shouldn’t skip the vacuuming step. Dust, dead skin cells, and allergens build up over time, so vacuuming regularly helps keep things fresh,” she says. Lastly, always remember to let your mattress dry fully, as excess moisture can cause odors and bacteria growth.
