How To Clean A Mattress And Remove Stains In 7 Easy Steps

Sure, you frequently launder your sheets and pillow cases. You even make your bed up all nice and pretty each morning, complete with way too many pillow shams and a decorative throw blanket. That bed looks oh so inviting, but when’s the last time you cleaned your mattress? Have you ever?

Well you should. And we’re here to tell you why—and how.

Why it’s important to clean your mattress

Like it or not, your precious bed—that safe zone where you’re free to dream and procrastinate and binge-watch (among other things)—can actually be a total breeding ground for bacteria. Especially when dampness is introduced. Routine mattress cleaning can also help if you’re prone to dust or mildew allergies, which can sometimes lead to asthma, eczema and sneezing.

Don’t make us beg, just clean your mattress already. You’ll be glad you did.

How often to clean your mattress

It’s important to give your mattress a monthly cleaning (but definitely wash your sheets way more often than that, like at least once a week!). Seriously, you spent something like one-third of your entire life in bed. Plus, mattresses are super expensive. Regular upkeep of your mattress will increase its longevity, which could save you literally thousands of dollars in the long run. Chances are, you even clean your well-worn and often-napped-on couch more than your mattress, where you sleep (almost) every single night.

You used to be able to flip your mattress over to extend its life (and your back’s), but now most mattresses have pillow tops, so flippage isn’t really an option. You could, however, rotate your mattress a couple times a year to help out with sagging and general wear and tear.

Furthermore, mattresses typically have a life span of about 8–10 years. If yours is saggy, discolored, uncomfortable or smelly (or just reminds you of your awful ex), it might be time to go mattress shopping.

How to clean your mattress in 7 easy steps

Supplies:

• Vacuum with upholstery attachment
• Enzyme cleaner or gentle dish soap, like Dawn (to spot treat stains)
• Hydrogen peroxide + cold water (optional substitute for enzyme cleaner)
• Baking soda
• Sponge or microfiber rag

1. Strip the sheets + do the laundry.

• Take off any comforters, duvets, sheets, pillow cases and mattress covers, and give them a good washing in hot water (which helps kill dust mites and bacteria).
• Shake out pillows.