How to Clean a Mattress: Step-by-Step Guide
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You spend about a third of your life on your mattress. Sweat, skin cells, and moisture accumulate—and these are what feed dust mites. Cleaning your mattress two to four times a year isn't obsessive: it extends its lifespan and improves the air you breathe while sleeping. Here's the step-by-step method.
1. Vacuum the entire surface
Using the upholstery attachment, vacuum the top and sides, paying attention to seams and corners—this is where dust collects. This step alone removes most allergens.
2. Deodorize with baking soda
Sprinkle baking soda all over the mattress and let it sit for at least 6 hours (a full afternoon is ideal). Baking soda absorbs odors and moisture. Afterwards, vacuum everything again.
3. Treat stains—by type
Never soak the mattress. Always work with minimal moisture and from the edge towards the center of the stain.
- Urine: mix equal parts white vinegar and water, spray the area, leave for 15 minutes, and blot dry with a cloth. Then cover with baking soda, let it dry, and vacuum.
- Sweat and yellow stains: baking soda paste with a little hydrogen peroxide and a drop of detergent. Apply, let dry, brush, and vacuum.
- Blood: cold water (never hot, it sets the stain) and a little mild soap, with a slightly damp cloth.
4. Dry thoroughly before making the bed
Trapped moisture creates mold. Let the mattress air out with the window open, or point a fan at it, until it is completely dry to the touch.
5. Prevent—it's easier than cleaning
A washable mattress protector prevents 90% of stains and can be machine-washed in minutes. Rotate your mattress head-to-foot every 3 months and air it out whenever you change the bedding.
If the stain has an persistent odor, or if the mattress is more than 8 years old, it's often not worth the effort to clean it. — Ana Cristina, Dreamura Sleep Advisor
Cleaning is part of a larger sleep hygiene routine. And if you're wondering about replacing it, read how long a mattress lasts and what the signs are to replace it.
