How to Clean a Mattress: Easy DIY Steps for a Fresh Bed

Ever wake up to a musty smell or spot on your mattress and think, "I need a miracle?" You don’t. A few everyday items and a bit of time are all it takes to bring your bed back to life. Below is a no‑fluff guide that shows you exactly how to clean a mattress, get rid of stains, and keep it smelling fresh for months.

What You’ll Need

Grab these things before you start:

• Vacuum with upholstery attachment
• Baking soda
• White vinegar
• Hydrogen peroxide (3%)
• Liquid dish soap (Dawn works great)
• Spray bottle
• Clean white cloths or microfiber towels
• Optional: essential oil (lavender or eucalyptus) for a pleasant scent

All of these are easy to find at any grocery store and safe for most mattress fabrics.

Step‑by‑Step Cleaning Process

1. Strip the bed. Remove all pillows, sheets, and mattress protectors. Wash the bedding in hot water to kill dust mites and bacteria.

2. Vacuum thoroughly. Use the upholstery head and go over the entire surface, seams, and edges. This pulls out dust, hair, and dead skin cells that cause odors.

3. Spot‑treat stains. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. For tougher stains like urine, add a few drops of dish soap. Spray the spot, let it sit 5‑10 minutes, then blot with a clean cloth. Avoid soaking the mattress; you just want the surface damp.

4. Deodorize with baking soda. Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the whole mattress. If you like a light fragrance, add a few drops of essential oil to the soda before spreading. Let it sit for at least 4 hours—overnight is best.

5. Vacuum again. The soda will have absorbed moisture and odors. Go over the mattress one more time to pick up the powder.

6. Optional deep clean. If you have stubborn odors, lightly mist the surface with a mixture of hydrogen peroxide (3%) and a teaspoon of dish soap. Wait a few minutes, then blot dry. The peroxide helps break down organic residues.

7. Let it dry. Open windows or use a fan to speed up drying. The mattress should be completely dry before you put bedding back on—usually 2‑3 hours.

That’s it! You’ve just cleaned a mattress without spending a fortune on professional services.

Pro tip: To keep your mattress fresh longer, sprinkle a thin layer of baking soda once a month, vacuum, and use a washable mattress protector. It catches spills before they reach the foam.

Cleaning a mattress might feel like a chore, but with these simple steps it becomes a quick routine. Your bed will feel cleaner, smell better, and you’ll sleep more comfortably knowing you’ve tackled dust, stains, and odors yourself.