Your mattress collects dead skin cells, sweat, dust mites, and bacteria every single night, which can trigger allergies and respiratory irritation. According to Harvard Health, controlling dust mites and allergens in bedding and mattresses is key to reducing allergy symptoms, improving indoor air quality. and saving your deposit during end-of-tenancy inspections. Learn more about dust mite control and health risks
To remove dust mites, sweat buildup, and odours while extending your mattress lifespan by years, clean a mattress by vacuuming the surface, treating stains with baking soda paste or white vinegar solution, then deodorizing with a thick layer of baking soda left for 8 hours before vacuuming again.
What You Need to Clean Your Mattress
- Vacuum cleaner with upholstery attachment
- Baking soda (at least 500g)
- White vinegar
- Spray bottle
- Clean cloths or microfibre towels
- Cold water
- Mild laundry detergent (unscented)
- Hydrogen peroxide (for tough stains)
- Soft brush (optional)
Step-by-Step Mattress Cleaning Process
1. Strip Everything Off
Remove all bedding, sheets, mattress protector, and pillows. Throw everything in the wash while you clean the mattress. This gives you complete access to every surface.
2. Vacuum the Entire Surface
Use the upholstery attachment on your vacuum. Go slowly over the entire top surface, paying extra attention to seams, edges, and any visible stains. Vacuum removes surface dust, dead skin, dust mites, and loose debris. Spend at least 5 minutes on this step. A thorough vacuum makes the rest of the cleaning more effective.
3. Spot Clean Stains
Don’t soak your mattress. Spot cleaning prevents water damage and mould. For fresh stains, blot immediately with a dry cloth. Press down firmly to absorb as much liquid as possible before it soaks deeper into the mattress.
For light stains: Mix 1 tablespoon of mild laundry detergent with 500ml of cold water. Dip a clean cloth in the solution, wring it out well, and gently dab the stain. Work from the outside edges toward the centre to prevent spreading. Blot with a dry cloth after treating.
For stubborn stains: Mix equal parts white vinegar and cold water in a spray bottle. Spray the stain lightly (don’t drench it), let it sit for 10 minutes, then blot with a clean cloth. The vinegar breaks down proteins and neutralizes odours.
4. Deodorize with Baking Soda
Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda across the entire mattress surface. Use at least 250g for a single mattress, 500g for a double or king. The baking soda absorbs moisture, neutralizes odours, and kills bacteria.
Leave the baking soda on the mattress for a minimum of 8 hours. Overnight works best. If you can leave it for 24 hours, even better. The longer it sits, the more effective it is.
Open windows to improve air circulation while the baking soda works. If possible, position the mattress near sunlight. UV rays kill bacteria and dust mites naturally.
5. Vacuum Again
After the baking soda has sat for at least 8 hours, vacuum it all up. Go over the surface multiple times to remove every trace. Any leftover baking soda will feel gritty when you lie down.
6. Flip and Repeat
If your mattress is flippable (check the label), turn it over and repeat steps 2-5 on the other side. Even if you can’t flip it, you should still clean the underside every six months. Dust and mites accumulate there too.
For non-flippable mattresses (most memory foam types), vacuum the bottom surface and wipe it with a slightly damp cloth. Let it air dry completely before putting it back on the bed frame.
7. Air Dry Completely
Your mattress must be bone dry before you put bedding back on. Damp mattresses grow mould within 48 hours. London’s humidity makes this worse. Leave the mattress exposed to air for at least 4 hours after cleaning. Use a fan to speed up drying if needed.
Test for dampness by pressing your palm firmly on the surface for 10 seconds. If you feel any coolness or moisture, keep drying.
How to Remove Specific Stains from Your Mattress
Blood Stains
Act fast. Fresh blood comes out easily, dried blood is a nightmare. Never use hot water on blood stains – it sets the protein and makes the stain permanent.
Blot fresh blood immediately with cold water and a clean cloth. Press down hard to pull the blood out of the mattress fibres. Keep blotting with clean sections of the cloth until no more blood transfers.
For dried blood, make a paste with 2 tablespoons of baking soda and 1 tablespoon of cold water. Apply it directly to the stain and let it sit for 30 minutes. The paste draws the blood out. Scrub gently with a soft brush, then wipe clean with a cloth dampened in cold water.
Stubborn dried blood responds to hydrogen peroxide. Dab it directly on the stain with a cloth. It will bubble and foam – that’s the peroxide breaking down the blood proteins. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then blot with cold water. Repeat if needed.
Urine Stains
Urine creates both visible stains and lingering smells. You need to treat both. Fresh urine is easier to clean than old, dried stains that have soaked into the mattress core.
For fresh urine, blot up as much liquid as possible with towels. Press down hard and use multiple towels if needed. You want to absorb it before it penetrates deeper.
Mix 240ml of white vinegar with 240ml of water in a spray bottle. Spray the affected area generously (but don’t soak it). The vinegar neutralizes the ammonia in urine and kills bacteria. Let it sit for 10 minutes, then blot with clean towels.
Cover the area with a thick layer of baking soda and leave it overnight. The baking soda absorbs remaining moisture and eliminates the smell. Vacuum it up in the morning.
For old, dried urine stains with a strong smell, you need a stronger solution. Mix 240ml of hydrogen peroxide, 3 tablespoons of baking soda, and 2 drops of washing-up liquid. Pour this into a spray bottle and spray the stain. Let it dry completely (this takes several hours), then vacuum. The mixture will form a crusty residue as it dries – that’s normal. Repeat if the smell persists.
Sweat Stains
Yellow sweat stains are stubborn because they’re a combination of oils, salts, and dead skin cells. They appear most often around the head and torso areas.
Make a cleaning solution with equal parts hydrogen peroxide, water, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Spray it on the stain and let it sit for 20 minutes. The hydrogen peroxide bleaches the stain while the lemon juice cuts through oils. Blot with a damp cloth and repeat if needed.
For old, set-in sweat stains, apply a paste of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide directly to the discolouration. Scrub gently with a soft brush in circular motions. Let it dry, then vacuum.
Wine Stains
Wine stains panic people, but they’re manageable if you act quickly. The tannins in red wine bind to fabric fibres fast, so speed matters.
Blot immediately with a clean, dry cloth. Don’t rub – this pushes the wine deeper into the mattress. Keep blotting with clean sections of cloth until no more wine transfers.
Mix 240ml of hydrogen peroxide with 60ml of washing-up liquid. Pour this directly onto the stain and let it sit for 20 minutes. The peroxide breaks down the wine pigments. Blot with cold water until the stain lifts.
For dried wine stains, saturate the area with white vinegar first. Let it sit for 10 minutes to break down the tannins, then apply the hydrogen peroxide solution.
Vomit Stains
Vomit requires immediate action for both stain removal and odour control. This is common in family homes and student flats.
Remove any solid matter with paper towels first. Blot up as much liquid as possible without spreading it. Sprinkle baking soda generously over the entire affected area – this absorbs liquid and neutralizes stomach acid smell immediately.
After 30 minutes, vacuum up the baking soda. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water, spray the area, and blot. The vinegar kills bacteria and removes acid.
For lingering smells, apply another thick layer of baking soda and leave it overnight. Vacuum thoroughly the next day. If the smell persists, repeat the vinegar treatment.
Coffee and Tea Stains
Coffee and tea contain tannins that stain quickly. Blot fresh spills immediately with a dry cloth. Don’t let it sit – coffee stains within minutes.
Mix 1 tablespoon of white vinegar with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Dab this onto the stain with a cloth. The vinegar breaks down tannins. Blot with clean water and repeat until the stain fades.
For dried coffee stains, apply a paste of baking soda and water. Let it sit for 15 minutes, scrub gently, then wipe clean.
Cleaning Different Mattress Types
Memory Foam Mattresses
Memory foam cannot handle excessive moisture. Too much water creates permanent damage and mould issues. Always use minimal liquid.
Vacuum gently – memory foam is softer than traditional mattresses. Don’t use rotating brush attachments, they can tear the foam surface.
For stains, use the spray bottle method sparingly. One or two light sprays, not soaking. Blot immediately with a dry cloth. Memory foam takes longer to dry than other types, so allow extra time. Position a fan directly at the mattress to speed drying.
Never flip a memory foam mattress unless the label specifically says it’s double-sided. Most are designed to be used only one way.
Innerspring Mattresses
Innerspring mattresses handle moisture better than foam, but you still shouldn’t soak them. Water can rust the coils inside.
You can vacuum more aggressively on innerspring. The coil system provides structure, so there’s no risk of damaging the surface.
Innerspring mattresses should be flipped every 3-6 months. This prevents sagging and distributes wear evenly.
Latex Mattresses
Latex resists dust mites naturally, but still needs regular cleaning. Avoid direct sunlight – UV rays break down latex over time.
Use minimal moisture when cleaning latex. The material is porous and absorbs liquid quickly. Blot stains immediately and use very light spray applications.
Latex mattresses need good air circulation. Remove them from the bed frame once a year and let them air out for 24 hours in a shaded, well-ventilated room.
Hybrid Mattresses
Hybrid mattresses combine memory foam with innerspring coils. Clean them using memory foam guidelines – minimal moisture and gentle handling.
Pay special attention to drying time. The foam layers trap moisture against the coils, which can cause rust. Allow at least 6 hours of drying time after cleaning.
Quick 30-Minute Mattress Refresh
Don’t have time for a deep clean? This quick refresh removes surface odours and light debris.
Strip the bed and vacuum the mattress for 3 minutes. Spray the surface lightly with a mixture of water and a few drops of tea tree oil (natural antibacterial). Sprinkle a thin layer of baking soda across the mattress. Wait 20 minutes. Vacuum it up. Make the bed with fresh sheets.
This refresh works between deep cleans but isn’t a substitute for the full 8-hour process.
Common Mattress Cleaning Mistakes
Using Too Much Water
The number one mistake. Soaking a mattress creates mould, mildew, and permanent damage. Mattresses take days to dry properly when saturated. Always use minimal liquid and focus on blotting, not pouring.
Scrubbing Too Hard
Aggressive scrubbing pushes stains deeper into the mattress and damages the fabric surface. Gentle dabbing and blotting work better. Let cleaning solutions do the work instead of relying on force.
Using Bleach
Bleach damages mattress fabrics and can create toxic fumes when mixed with other cleaning products. It’s completely unnecessary. Hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and vinegar handle any stain bleach could, without the risk.
Skipping the Drying Step
Putting bedding back on a damp mattress traps moisture and guarantees mould growth. Mould ruins mattresses permanently and creates serious health risks. Always verify the mattress is completely dry.
Using Hot Water on Protein Stains
Hot water sets blood, urine, and vomit stains permanently by cooking the proteins into the fabric. Always use cold water for protein-based stains.
Ignoring the Underside
The bottom of your mattress collects just as much dust and debris as the top. Dust mites don’t care which side they’re on. Clean both sides every time.
What If You Over-Wet Your Mattress?
If you accidentally use too much water, act immediately. Strip all bedding. Press dry towels firmly into the wet area to absorb as much moisture as possible. Replace towels as they become saturated.
Position fans directly at the mattress. Open all windows for cross-ventilation. If you have a dehumidifier, use it. You need air movement and low humidity.
Prop the mattress up at an angle against a wall to expose both sides to air. This increases surface area for drying.
Check for dampness every few hours. The mattress needs at least 24-48 hours to dry completely if you’ve soaked it. Don’t use the bed until it’s bone dry.
If you smell mildew within 48 hours, the mattress has mould. At this point, professional cleaning or replacement is your only option.
How Often Should You Clean Your Mattress?
Every 6 months: Full deep clean with baking soda treatment for average home use.
Every 3 months: If you have allergies, asthma, pets on the bed, or excessive sweating.
Monthly: For Airbnb properties, holiday lets, or guest rooms with regular turnover.
Immediately: When spills or accidents happen. Don’t wait – fresh stains are 10 times easier to remove than dried ones.
Before moving out: End-of-tenancy cleaning requirements in London typically include mattresses. Landlords check for stains during inspections. A dirty mattress can cost you hundreds in deposit deductions.
Mattress Maintenance Between Deep Cleans
Use a mattress protector. This creates a washable barrier against spills, sweat, and dust mites. Wash the protector monthly. Quality protectors are waterproof but breathable, so they don’t affect comfort.
Change your sheets weekly. More often if you sweat heavily or allow pets on the bed. Fresh sheets prevent oil and sweat buildup on the mattress surface.
Vacuum your mattress monthly. A quick 2-minute vacuum between deep cleans removes surface dust and dead skin before it accumulates.
Open windows when you make your bed. Pulling back the duvet and exposing the mattress to fresh air for 20 minutes helps moisture evaporate and prevents mould.
Rotate your mattress every 3 months. This distributes wear and prevents body impressions from forming in one spot.
End-of-Tenancy Mattress Cleaning in London
Landlords and letting agents check mattresses during move-out inspections. Stains, odours, or visible dirt lead to cleaning charges deducted from your deposit.
Clean your mattress at least one week before moving out. This gives you time to repeat the process if stains don’t come out the first time.
Take photos of the clean mattress after you finish. If disputes arise over deposit deductions, these photos prove you left it in good condition.
Stubborn stains that won’t budge with DIY methods require professional cleaning. This costs less than losing your deposit. Many London cleaning companies offer same-day mattress cleaning specifically for end-of-tenancy situations.
When to Call Professional Mattress Cleaners
Some situations require professional equipment and expertise. Trying to handle them yourself risks permanent damage.
Years of accumulated stains: If a mattress has never been cleaned and shows multiple old, set-in stains, professional steam cleaning and extraction work better than DIY methods.
Persistent odours: Smells that remain after multiple baking soda treatments indicate deep contamination. Professional cleaners use enzyme treatments and industrial deodorizers that penetrate the mattress core.
Mould or mildew: Visible mould spots or a musty smell mean spores have colonized the mattress interior. This requires professional treatment or replacement. Mould creates serious health risks and spreads quickly.
Bed bug infestations: DIY cleaning doesn’t kill bed bugs or their eggs. Professional heat treatment or chemical treatment is the only effective solution.
Valuable or delicate mattresses: Expensive mattresses (£1,000+) or specialty types like organic latex deserve professional care. The cost of professional cleaning is minor compared to replacement.
End-of-tenancy failures: If you’ve tried cleaning the mattress yourself and stains remain, professionals can often salvage it and protect your deposit.
Better Maid provides professional mattress cleaning across Greater London, including deep steam cleaning, stain removal, odour treatment, dust mite elimination, and same-day service for urgent situations. We serve all London areas, including Canary Wharf, Southwark, Camden, Lambeth, Hackney, Kensington, Chelsea, Tower Hamlets, Westminster, and surrounding neighbourhoods.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a steam cleaner on my mattress?
Yes, but with caution. Steam cleaning kills dust mites and bacteria effectively. Keep the steam nozzle moving constantly – don’t hold it in one spot. Too much steam creates excessive moisture. Only steam clean mattresses that can handle moisture (innerspring and some hybrids). Never steam clean memory foam or latex. After steam cleaning, the mattress needs at least 6 hours to dry completely with fans running.
How do I clean a mattress without a vacuum?
Use a stiff brush to loosen dust and debris, then wipe with a slightly damp cloth. For baking soda removal without a vacuum, use a clean, dry towel to brush it off the surface, working in sections. This takes longer and isn’t as thorough, but it works.
Can I flip my mattress?
Check the label. Traditional innerspring mattresses are designed to be flipped. Memory foam, pillow-top, and most modern mattresses are one-sided and should only be rotated 180 degrees, not flipped.
How long does a mattress take to dry after cleaning?
Spot-cleaned areas dry in 2-4 hours with good air circulation. A fully cleaned mattress needs 4-6 hours minimum. If you’ve used a lot of liquid or live in a humid area, allow 8-12 hours. Never put bedding back on a damp mattress.
What kills dust mites in a mattress?
Baking soda, regular vacuuming, and exposure to sunlight all reduce dust mite populations. Hot washing your bedding (60°C) kills them in fabric. For severe dust mite allergies, professional steam cleaning provides the most thorough elimination.
Can I use carpet cleaner on my mattress?
Only if it’s designed for upholstery. Carpet cleaners often contain harsh chemicals and use too much water. Upholstery-specific cleaners are safer. Always test on a small, hidden area first.
My mattress still smells after cleaning. What now?
Repeat the baking soda treatment and leave it on for 24 hours this time. Spray the mattress lightly with a mixture of water and white vinegar, then apply baking soda on top. If the smell persists after two treatments, the odour source is deep in the mattress core and requires professional enzyme treatment.
How do I prevent mattress stains?
Use a waterproof mattress protector. These zip or stretch over the mattress and catch spills before they reach the mattress surface. Wash the protector monthly. Keep drinks away from the bed. Act immediately when accidents happen.
A clean mattress improves your sleep quality, prevents allergies, and protects your investment. Regular cleaning takes minimal time but makes a massive difference. Whether you’re maintaining your home, preparing for guests, or getting ready for an end-of-tenancy inspection, these methods work.
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