To clean a mattress, strip the bed, vacuum the surface, spot clean stains with a mild detergent solution using as little liquid as possible, sprinkle bicarbonate of soda to deodorise, then leave it to dry fully in the air. Never soak a mattress. Use a protector, rotate it regularly and replace it when it sags or is beyond cleaning.
A mattress soaks up sweat, skin cells and the odd spill over years of use, yet it often goes uncleaned because it is too big to wash. A dirty mattress can smell, stain and, for some people, make allergies worse.
You cannot put a mattress in a washing machine, but you can clean it safely at home with the right approach. This guide covers vacuuming, stain treatment, deodorising, drying and keeping it clean.
Why mattresses need cleaning
We spend a third of our lives in bed, so a mattress takes sweat, body oils, dust and the occasional drink or accident. Over time this builds up and can cause odours, stains and, for some people, allergy symptoms. Regular cleaning, a protector and good airing keep it fresher and help it last.
What you need
- A vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment.
- Bicarbonate of soda.
- Mild liquid detergent or a mattress or upholstery cleaner.
- Clean white cloths or towels.
- A spray bottle.
- A fan or an open window.
Step by step: how to clean a mattress
- Strip the bed and wash the sheets, protector and cover. See how often to wash bedsheets.
- Vacuum the whole surface and the sides slowly, with the upholstery attachment, including the seams.
- Spot clean any stains (see below).
- Sprinkle bicarbonate of soda lightly over the whole surface and leave it for several hours, or longer if there is an odour.
- Vacuum the powder up thoroughly.
- Let the mattress air in a ventilated room before remaking the bed.
Open a window and, if possible, stand the mattress on its side in sunlight for a short time to freshen it, but avoid leaving it in strong sun for long.
How to treat different stains
- General marks: dab with a cloth dampened with a mild detergent solution, then blot with a clean damp cloth, and dry with a clean towel.
- Urine: blot, then use an enzyme-based cleaner made for the purpose, and let it dry fully.
- Blood: use cold water and blot, never hot, then treat with a little detergent.
- Sweat and yellowing: use a mild solution, work lightly and dry well.
Use as little liquid as possible. A soaked mattress takes days to dry and can grow mould. Our general stain removal guide covers the principles.
How to deodorise a mattress
Bicarbonate of soda absorbs odours well. Sprinkle it evenly, leave it for several hours or overnight, then vacuum. For persistent smells, repeat and air the mattress for longer. Avoid heavy perfumed sprays, which mask rather than solve the problem and can irritate skin.
Dust mites and allergies
Dust mites live in bedding and mattresses and feed on skin flakes. Regular vacuuming, washing bedding at a suitable temperature, using a protector and keeping the bedroom ventilated reduce them. If someone in the home has allergies, a washable protector and regular washing of pillows and duvets helps. See how to wash a duvet and our duvet and bedding cleaning service.
How to keep a mattress clean
- Use a washable mattress protector and wash it regularly.
- Rotate the mattress every few months, and flip it if the manufacturer says it is designed to be flipped.
- Air the bed in the morning before making it.
- Do not eat and drink in bed.
- Vacuum the mattress a few times a year.
- Treat spills straight away.
When to replace a mattress
No amount of cleaning will fix a mattress that has sagged, lost support or has persistent mould or staining. As a rough guide, many mattresses need replacing after around eight to ten years, sooner if it is uncomfortable. If you wake with aches or notice lumps and sagging, it is time.
Bedding, protectors and pillows
Clean bedding does as much as a clean mattress. Wash sheets, covers and protectors regularly, and see our guide to washing pillows and duvets. Our laundry service washes, dries and folds sheets, duvet covers and towels, and our collection and delivery brings them back to you. Ask for a free quote.
Common mattress cleaning mistakes
Mattresses are expensive, and a few mistakes can damage one beyond repair.
- Soaking the mattress, which can lead to mould and a damp smell.
- Using hot water or strong chemicals that damage the fabric and the filling.
- Scrubbing hard, which pushes the stain deeper.
- Remaking the bed before the mattress is completely dry.
- Using too much perfumed spray instead of treating the cause of the smell.
- Never using a protector, so spills soak straight in.
A light touch, plenty of airflow and a washable protector keep a mattress clean for much longer.
If your mattress is heavily stained, smells or you cannot dry it properly, do not soak it. Our laundry service team in Clapham can take care of your bedding while you deal with the mattress. Bring it to 180 Northcote Rd or call 020 7738 2266 for advice and a quote before any work begins.
Local help in Clapham and south-west London
Elegance Dry Cleaners is on Northcote Road and looks after customers across Clapham Junction, Battersea, Wandsworth, Balham and nearby SW London streets. See everything we cover on our areas page, or ask about collection and delivery.
Frequently asked questions
How do you clean a mattress at home?
Vacuum it, spot clean stains with a mild detergent and as little liquid as possible, sprinkle bicarbonate of soda, vacuum again and air it fully.
How do you get a smell out of a mattress?
Sprinkle bicarbonate of soda, leave for several hours or overnight, vacuum it up and air the mattress. Repeat if needed.
Can you wash a mattress?
No. Mattresses cannot go in a washing machine. Clean them by vacuuming and spot cleaning, and avoid soaking.
How often should you clean a mattress?
Vacuum it a few times a year, spot clean as needed and rotate it every few months.
How do you remove urine from a mattress?
Blot, use an enzyme cleaner made for urine, and let it dry thoroughly with good airflow.