What is the best thing to clean a mattress with? These expert tips are foolproof

Cleaning a mattress is a task many of us dread to some extent. While it is not particularly gross or difficult, it does take a lot of effort and energy that we would usually rather spend doing something else.

Nevertheless, it is vital that we clean a mattress every six months or so to maintain good sleep hygiene and reduce the risk of allergic reactions to help keep your best mattress in top condition for years to come.

But what is the best thing to clean a mattress with to make this tedious process quicker and less damaging? The experts are united: if you want to keep your sleep space hygienic and oh-so-clean, cleaning with baking soda is your best friend.

Best thing to clean a mattress with

Baking soda is one of the gentlest DIY cleaning solutions for mattresses, being tough enough to help remove stains and get rid of musty smells in a bedroom, while also being gentle enough to avoid damaging even the most delicate of mattress materials, such as memory foam and latex.

Before using baking soda to clean a mattress, remove any bedding and launder it according to the laundry symbols on the care label. Similarly, remove mattress toppers and pillows and wash those, too.

Then, with the mattress free and allowed to breathe, you can start with these expert cleaning tips.

1. Sprinkle with baking soda

Theresa Schnorbach, sleep scientist from sleep company Emma says all you need to clean your mattress is baking soda. She says once you've removed all bedding and used the upholstery attachment of your best vacuum on the mattress, you need to sprinkle baking soda on it and let it sit for 'at least a few hours, overnight if possible.'

The longer you can leave it, the better, says Theresa. It'll eliminate odors, break down debris and soak up any liquid that might be on the mattress. So if you can sleep on an inflatable mattress for one night (or your sleeper sofa) then the baking soda can get to work.

After that, vacuum the mattress again and flip it (or just rotate it if you're cleaning a memory foam mattress or hybrid that can't be flipped). Repeat before letting it air out and putting the sheets back on.

2. Use baking soda with a DIY mattress cleaner

While baking soda can be great for removing odors, you might need a slightly tougher solution to help get rid of stains. That is why Christina Heiser, content director at Saatva, the Smarter Luxury Sleep Company, suggests using baking soda alongside a DIY cleaning agent:

'In most cases, a non-toxic, natural enzyme cleaner, which chemically breaks down stains and odors, should be sufficient.

'Alternatively, you can create your own all-natural DIY stain remover by combining lemon juice and baking soda to make a paste. Put the paste in a spray bottle, spray it onto the stain, and let it sit for up to an hour. After that, wipe off the solution with a clean towel.'

With the solution wiped away, leave the mattress clear or bedding to air dry before replacing the bedding and snuggling down. Opening windows and internal doors will help to promote air flow, but you can also use the best dehumidifier to speed up the process.

FAQs

Can you use dish soap to clean a mattress?

You can use dish soap to clean a mattress. Combine a teaspoon of washing-up liquid with cold water in a spray bottle and shake to combine. Spray a small amount of the area you need to spot treat and dab with a cloth to remove discoloration and staining and allow to dry.
That being said, it is more advantageous to use a gentle detergent to avoid any greasy residues if you don't clean it away correctly.

How can I get my mattress white again?

As well as using it dry, you can combine baking soda with white vinegar, at Walmart, to shift difficult or set stains, and to get your mattress white again. Combine to make a paste and apply lightly to the stain. Allow them mixture to sit for around 30 minutes before wiping it away with a damp cloth and allowing it to dry.

If you want to reduce how often you need to deep clean a mattress, Theresa Schnorbach, sleep scientist, suggests investing in a good mattress protector. 'Mattress protectors can offer waterproof protection that shields your mattress from any spills, crumbs, and other nasties and can be removed and washed separately, making cleaning easier and also helping increase the lifespan of your mattress.'

It is good to remember that a mattress protector is different from a topper. The best mattress topper brings an old mattress back to life, giving extra support and heat regulation, but it won't necessarily protect your mattress beneath from any spills. It is always a good idea to invest in both.