How To Deep Clean a Mattress at Home

Deep cleaning a mattress at home might seem like a chore most New Yorkers would rather avoid, but trust me, it’s worth every bit of elbow grease. When you think about it, we spend a third of our lives on that mattress. So, making sure it’s not a breeding ground for dust mites, stains, and odors is a smart move. Whether you’re dealing with the aftermath of a spilled cup of coffee or just doing a deep seasonal clean, here’s a no-nonsense guide to getting your mattress as fresh as a daisy without having to call in the pros.

Why Bother Deep Cleaning Your Mattress?

Before diving into the nitty-gritty, let’s address the big question: why bother? Sure, you might change your sheets regularly and maybe even flip the mattress once in a while, but that’s just scratching the surface—literally. Deep cleaning your mattress is essential for several reasons:

• Health: Dust mites, allergens, and bacteria love to hang out in your mattress. This can trigger allergies, asthma, and other health issues.
• Longevity: Regular cleaning can extend the life of your mattress, keeping it comfortable and supportive for years.
• Hygiene: Sweat, dead skin cells, and even the occasional spill seep into your mattress over time. That’s just gross.

Tools You’ll Need

Before you start, gather all the necessary tools. You don’t want to be running around looking for things halfway through. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Vacuum cleaner: Preferably one with a HEPA filter and upholstery attachment.
• Baking soda: A natural deodorizer.
• White vinegar: For spot cleaning stains.
• Hydrogen peroxide: Effective for tough stains.
• Mild detergent: Gentle on fabrics but tough on stains.
• Spray bottle: To mix and apply your cleaning solutions.
• Microfiber cloths: Soft and absorbent, perfect for wiping and blotting.
• A fan: Optional, but it speeds up the drying process.

Step-by-Step Guide to Deep Cleaning Your Mattress

Now that you’ve got your tools, let’s dive into the steps.

1. Strip the Bed

Remove all bedding, including sheets, pillowcases, and mattress protectors. Toss them into the washing machine on the hottest setting recommended for the fabric. Hot water helps kill dust mites and bacteria.

2. Vacuum the Mattress

Start by vacuuming the entire mattress surface. Use the upholstery attachment to get into the nooks and crannies. Pay extra attention to the seams, where dust and dirt tend to accumulate. This step removes dust, dead skin cells, and other debris.

4: Treat Stains

Now, let’s tackle those unsightly stains. Whether it’s sweat, urine, or something else, stains are inevitable. But don’t fret; they’re not impossible to remove.

For Fresh Stains:

• Blot the area with a clean towel to absorb as much moisture as possible.
• Mix a solution of hydrogen peroxide and dish soap in a spray bottle.
• Spray the solution onto the stain and gently blot with a clean towel.
• Repeat as necessary until the stain is gone.

For Dried Stains:

• Mix a paste of baking soda and water.
• Apply it to the stain and let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
• Scrub gently with a soft-bristled brush and wipe clean with a damp towel.
• If the stain persists, try a commercial enzyme cleaner designed for mattresses.

Detailed Stain Removal

4. Deodorize with Baking Soda

Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the entire surface of the mattress. If you’re feeling fancy, you can add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to the baking soda before applying it. Let the baking soda sit for at least an hour—overnight is even better. This step helps to absorb odors and moisture.

5. Vacuum Again

After the baking soda has done its job, vacuum the mattress again. This removes the baking soda along with any absorbed odors and moisture.

6. Air Out the Mattress

If possible, place the mattress near an open window or use a fan to help air it out. This step is crucial for ensuring that your mattress is completely dry before you put the bedding back on. A damp mattress can lead to mold and mildew—trust me, you don’t want that.

How Often Should You Deep Clean Your Mattress?

A mattress is an investment, and like any investment, it needs regular maintenance. Ideally, you should be deep cleaning your mattress every six months. This not only keeps it fresh but also helps you spot any issues early on—like sagging or wear—that might indicate it’s time for a replacement.

Additional Tips for Mattress Maintenance

• Use a Mattress Protector: A quality mattress protector is your first line of defense against spills, stains, and allergens. Make sure to wash it regularly.
• Rotate Your Mattress: Rotating your mattress every three to six months helps prevent uneven wear and tear.
• Air Out Your Mattress: Whenever possible, let your mattress breathe. Strip it down and open the windows for an hour or two.
• Don’t Jump on the Bed: It might sound like something you’d tell a kid, but avoiding putting extra pressure on your mattress helps maintain its structure.

In-Depth Questions Related to Mattress Cleaning

How Do You Remove Urine Smell from a Mattress?

Removing urine smell from a mattress can be tricky, but it’s doable. Start by blotting up as much of the liquid as possible with a clean towel. Then, apply a mixture of white vinegar and water directly to the stain. Vinegar neutralizes odors and breaks down the uric acid in urine. After letting it sit for 10-15 minutes, blot the area again. Sprinkle baking soda over the spot to absorb any remaining odor and let it sit overnight. Vacuum it up in the morning. For stubborn smells, consider using an enzyme cleaner, which is designed to break down the proteins in urine.

For more tips, check out how to get urine smell out of couch after dried.

Can You Steam Clean a Mattress?

Yes, you can steam clean a mattress, and it’s an excellent way to sanitize it. Steam cleaning uses high temperatures to kill dust mites, bacteria, and other allergens that might be lurking in your mattress. It’s particularly effective on mattresses with a lot of fabric, like those with pillow tops. However, it’s essential to allow the mattress to dry completely before using it again. If you don’t have a steamer, you can always hire professionals like Gil’s Carpet Buster to handle the job.

How Do You Remove Old Stains from a Mattress?

Old stains can be stubborn, but they’re not impossible to remove. The key is to be persistent and use the right tools. Start by making a paste of baking soda and water, then apply it to the stain. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, then scrub gently with a soft brush. Wipe clean with a damp towel. For particularly tough stains, a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and dish soap can work wonders. Apply it, let it sit for a few minutes, then blot with a clean towel. Repeat as needed.

If the stain is particularly tough, you might need to call in the professionals. You can find more about this in this guide.

How Long Does It Take for a Mattress to Dry After Cleaning?

The drying time depends on the method you used. If you’ve just vacuumed and deodorized, your mattress is ready to go as soon as you’ve finished. However, if you’ve used water-based cleaning solutions or a steam cleaner, the mattress will need more time. Typically, it can take anywhere from a few hours to a full day to dry completely. To speed up the process, increase airflow in the room by opening windows or using fans.

For more on this, check out how long carpet to dry after cleaning.

Conclusion

Deep cleaning your mattress might not be the most glamorous task, but it’s essential for maintaining a healthy sleep environment. With a little bit of time and effort, you can extend the life of your mattress and enjoy a fresher, cleaner bed. If this sounds like a bit too much for a DIY project, don’t hesitate to reach out to Gil’s Carpet Buster. We specialize in deep cleaning services that go beyond just carpets. Contact us today to find out how we can help keep your home fresh and clean from top to bottom.