How to Clean a Mattress

What Is the Best Way to Clean a Mattress?

The best way to clean a mattress is to remove all bedding, vacuum the entire surface, gently spot-clean stains, deodorise with baking soda, vacuum again and allow the mattress to dry completely before making the bed.

Learning how to clean a mattress properly is important because mattresses gradually collect dust, body oils, perspiration, skin particles and everyday debris. Regular care can help keep your bedroom feeling fresher and may help extend the useful life of your mattress.

The key rule is simple: avoid soaking the mattress. Excess moisture can become trapped inside foam, fibres or other materials, so always follow the care instructions supplied with your particular mattress.

Quick Facts About How to Clean a Mattress

• Remove all bedding before cleaning.
• Vacuum the mattress using an upholstery attachment.
• Pay particular attention to seams, edges and crevices.
• Treat stains as soon as possible.
• Use minimal moisture when spot-cleaning.
• Baking soda can help absorb odours and residual moisture.
• Allow the mattress to dry completely before replacing bedding.
• A washable mattress protector can help prevent future stains.
• Check the manufacturer's care instructions before using any cleaning product.
• A general deep-cleaning routine every few months can help maintain freshness.

Why Is It Important to Know How to Clean a Mattress?

Your mattress is used every night, often for many years. Even when it is covered with sheets, small amounts of dust, perspiration and other debris can gradually accumulate.

Regular mattress care can help keep the sleeping environment feeling clean and fresh. It can also prevent small spills or stains from becoming more difficult to remove later.

The main reason Australians should pay attention to mattress care is that moisture management matters. A mattress that remains damp for too long can develop unpleasant odours and potentially suffer material damage.

Cleaning does not mean completely washing the mattress. Instead, effective mattress care is usually about vacuuming, gentle spot treatment, deodorising and thorough drying.

How to Clean a Mattress: Step-by-Step

1. Remove All Bedding

Start by removing:

• Sheets
• Doona or quilt
• Mattress protector
• Mattress topper
• Blankets
• Pillows

Wash removable bedding according to its individual care labels.

This is also a good opportunity to inspect the mattress for stains, discolouration or areas that may need additional attention.

2. Vacuum the Mattress

Use a vacuum cleaner with a suitable upholstery attachment.

Slowly vacuum the entire upper surface, paying particular attention to:

• Seams
• Edges
• Tufting
• Corners
• Piping
• Areas underneath the pillows

If the mattress can safely be cleaned underneath, vacuum that area too.

Vacuuming is one of the most important parts of knowing how to clean a mattress, because it removes loose dust and debris without introducing moisture.

3. Spot-Clean Stains

For a small stain, use a clean cloth lightly dampened with an appropriate gentle cleaning solution.

Rather than pouring or spraying liquid directly onto the mattress, apply a small amount to the cloth and gently blot the affected area.

Avoid vigorous scrubbing, which can spread a stain and potentially damage the mattress fabric.

For biological stains such as perspiration, urine or other organic spills, an appropriate enzyme-based cleaner may be useful, provided it is compatible with your mattress materials.

Always test an inconspicuous area first and follow the manufacturer's care instructions.

4. Deodorise With Baking Soda

Once any spot-cleaned areas have been dealt with, sprinkle a light, even layer of baking soda over the mattress.

Baking soda can help absorb moisture and neutralise unwanted odours.

Leave it for several hours so it has time to work. Longer contact can be useful when the mattress needs a more thorough refresh.

5. Vacuum Again

Use the upholstery attachment to remove the baking soda thoroughly.

Take your time around seams and edges where powder can collect.

If your vacuum manufacturer's instructions advise against vacuuming fine powders, remove as much baking soda as possible manually before using the vacuum.

6. Allow the Mattress to Air

Leave the mattress uncovered in a well-ventilated room.

Open windows where appropriate and use a fan to encourage airflow.

Do not remake the bed until the mattress is completely dry.

This step is particularly important after any spot-cleaning because trapped moisture can lead to unpleasant smells and potential mould or mildew problems.

7. Rotate If Recommended

If your mattress manufacturer recommends rotating the mattress, this can be a convenient time to do it.

Not every mattress should be flipped, so check the manufacturer's instructions before turning it over.

How to Remove Common Mattress Stains

Sweat Stains

Sweat can leave yellowish or darker marks over time.

Use a gentle, compatible cleaning solution sparingly and blot rather than scrub. Allow the area to dry completely afterwards.

Urine Stains

For urine, act quickly where possible. Blot fresh moisture with clean towels before treating the area with a suitable enzyme cleaner.

Avoid saturating the mattress.

Blood Stains

Use cold water rather than hot water when dealing with fresh blood stains, as heat can make protein-based stains more difficult to remove.

Always check whether your mattress manufacturer permits the cleaning product you intend to use.

Food and Drink Spills

Blot immediately with a clean cloth to absorb as much liquid as possible.

Follow with careful spot treatment rather than soaking the mattress.

Unpleasant Odours

For general mattress odours, baking soda is a simple option. Apply it evenly, allow it to sit for several hours and then vacuum thoroughly.

What Should You Avoid When Cleaning a Mattress?

Understanding what not to do is just as important as knowing how to clean a mattress.

Avoid Soaking

Do not pour large quantities of water or cleaning solution onto the mattress.

Avoid Harsh Chemicals

Bleach and aggressive cleaning chemicals may damage mattress fabrics, foams or other internal materials.

Avoid Excessive Scrubbing

Hard brushing can damage the surface fabric and spread stains.

Avoid Making the Bed While Damp

Always wait until the mattress is completely dry.

Avoid Steam Cleaning Without Checking First

Some mattresses and foams are particularly sensitive to moisture and heat. Never steam clean a mattress unless the manufacturer's care instructions specifically permit it.

Benefits & Use Cases of Proper Mattress Cleaning

Keeps the Bedroom Fresher

Regular cleaning can help minimise unpleasant odours and keep the sleeping environment feeling fresh.

Removes Surface Dust

Vacuuming helps remove loose dust and debris from the mattress surface and seams.

Helps Manage Spills

Prompt spot cleaning gives stains less time to settle into the fabric.

Protects Your Investment

Good mattress care can help maintain the appearance and condition of the mattress over time.

Creates a Better Bed-Making Routine

A clean mattress provides a fresh foundation for clean sheets, bedding and a comfortable bedroom.

House of Isabella Recommendations

At House of Isabella Australia, mattress care works beautifully alongside a wider approach to creating a calm, comfortable and well-organised bedroom.

Once your mattress is clean and completely dry, layer it with quality bedding, a suitable mattress protector, pillows and throws to create a comfortable and inviting sleeping space.

Natural textures and understated colours can work particularly well with bedroom collections inspired by the Florabelle Collection and Emac & Lawton. Decorative lighting from Café Lighting & Living, alongside complementary pieces from Gallery Home, Zaffero or the OneWorld Collection, can further enhance the atmosphere.

A mattress protector is particularly useful because it creates an additional washable layer between everyday spills and the mattress itself.

House of Isabella Australia also offers a large in-stock catalogue, distinctive home and interior pieces, fast delivery Australia-wide, East and West Coast warehouses, Australian-based customer care and Buy Now, Pay Later options through Afterpay and Zip.

How to Clean a Mattress: Trends for 2025 in Australia

Washable Mattress Protection

Mattress protectors continue to be an important part of practical bedroom care. A removable, washable layer can help reduce the amount of dirt and moisture reaching the mattress.

Simpler Cleaning Routines

Rather than relying on complicated cleaning methods, homeowners are increasingly favouring straightforward routines involving regular vacuuming, prompt stain treatment and good ventilation.

Breathable Bedding

Natural and breathable bedding materials remain popular in Australian bedrooms, particularly where comfortable temperature management is important.

Minimal Bedroom Styling

Clean, uncluttered bedrooms make regular cleaning easier. Fewer decorative objects around the bed also create a calmer atmosphere.

Natural Materials

Timber, linen, cotton, woven textures and other natural-looking materials continue to influence Australian bedroom styling.

Better Mattress Care

Consumers are increasingly treating mattresses as long-term investments, making protective covers, regular cleaning and manufacturer-approved care part of the bedroom routine.

Styling Advice After Cleaning Your Mattress

Once your mattress is clean and dry, use the opportunity to refresh the entire bed.

Start with a freshly washed mattress protector and fitted sheet. Add your doona or quilt, then layer pillows and cushions in different sizes and textures.

A throw placed casually across the end of the bed can introduce colour and warmth without making the arrangement feel overly formal.

Keep the palette cohesive rather than perfectly matching. Cream, beige, warm white, soft grey, natural timber and earthy tones can create a relaxed Australian bedroom aesthetic.

If you have a statement headboard, let it remain the focal point. If the bed itself is relatively simple, use bedding, cushions and a throw to introduce additional character.

The result should feel comfortable first and styled second.

Common Questions About How to Clean a Mattress

How often should I clean my mattress?

A thorough cleaning every few months is a useful general routine, with spot cleaning carried out whenever spills or stains occur. Vacuuming can be performed more frequently depending on your bedroom environment.

Can I wash a mattress with water?

Generally, mattresses should not be soaked or saturated. Use as little moisture as possible for spot cleaning and follow the manufacturer's instructions for your specific mattress.

Does baking soda clean a mattress?

Baking soda can help absorb moisture and neutralise odours, but it does not replace proper stain treatment or routine vacuuming.

How do I clean a mattress without damaging it?

Use gentle methods, minimal moisture and compatible cleaning products. Always check the mattress manufacturer's care instructions before treating stains.

Can I sleep on a mattress after cleaning it?

Only once it is completely dry. Trapping moisture beneath sheets can create unpleasant odours and potentially damage the mattress.

Should I flip my mattress after cleaning?

Only if it is designed to be flipped. Some modern mattresses are single-sided, so check the manufacturer's instructions. Rotating the mattress may be recommended instead.

Related Glossary Terms

• Mattress Protector
• Mattress Frame
• Bed Frame
• Bedroom Bedding
• Bed Cover
• Headboard

The Finishing Touch

Knowing how to clean a mattress does not require complicated equipment or an elaborate routine. The most effective approach is simple: remove the bedding, vacuum thoroughly, treat stains carefully, deodorise with baking soda and allow plenty of time for the mattress to dry.

Most importantly, avoid excessive moisture and always follow the manufacturer's care instructions.

With regular attention and a good mattress protector, your bed can remain fresher, more comfortable and better cared for over the years.

Disclaimer

Brand and collection names mentioned in this glossary are included purely for descriptive and contextual purposes. House of Isabella Australia is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or associated with the brands mentioned, and all trademarks remain the property of their respective owners.