How to Clean Mattress Correctly With 8 Simple Steps

Liputan6.com, Jakarta Have you ever wondered how to clean mattress properly at home? A mattress is one of the most important items in your bedroom, yet many people do not know how to keep it clean. Over time, it collects dust, sweat, and other particles that may affect your sleep and health.

Cleaning your mattress regularly is essential for both hygiene and comfort. A clean mattress can help you sleep better, reduce allergies, and even extend the life of the mattress. When dust and dirt build up, it becomes harder to maintain a healthy sleeping space. That is why taking care of your mattress is just as important as washing your sheets.

In this article, we will learn how to clean mattress correctly by yourself and how often you should do it. We will also share some helpful tips to keep your mattress clean between each cleaning. We gathered the information from various sources, Saturday (30/8/2025).

When learning how to clean mattress properly, it is helpful to follow a step-by-step guide. This makes the process easier and ensures that the mattress stays fresh and hygienic.

What You'll Need

- Vacuum cleaner with upholstery attachment

- Baking soda

- Clean cloth or towel

- Mild soap or dish soap

- Cold water

- Spray bottle

- Essential oil (optional)

- Hydrogen peroxide (for tough stains)

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Remove All Bedding and Covers

Take off all sheets, pillowcases, and mattress protectors. Wash these items in hot water to kill germs and dust mites. This step gives you full access to your mattress surface and helps you see all areas that need cleaning.

Step 2: Vacuum the Entire Mattress

Use your vacuum cleaner with the upholstery attachment. Start from the top and work your way down. Pay special attention to seams and crevices where dust and debris collect. Vacuum both sides of the mattress if possible. This removes loose dirt, dead skin cells, and dust mites.

Step 3: Treat Stains Immediately

Mix a small amount of mild soap with cold water. Dab the stain gently with a clean cloth. Do not rub hard or soak the mattress. For blood stains, use hydrogen peroxide on a cloth. For urine stains, mix equal parts water and white vinegar. Always work from the outside of the stain toward the center.

Step 4: Apply Baking Soda

Sprinkle a thin layer of baking soda over the entire mattress surface. Add a few drops of essential oil to the baking soda for a fresh smell. The baking soda will absorb odors and moisture. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, but several hours work better.

Step 5: Vacuum Again

After the baking soda has done its work, vacuum it all up. Use the same upholstery attachment. Make sure to get all the powder out of seams and corners. This step removes the baking soda along with the odors and moisture it absorbed.

Step 6: Flip the Mattress

Carefully flip your mattress over to clean the other side. If your mattress is heavy, ask someone to help you. Some mattresses should not be flipped, so check the manufacturer's instructions first. Most traditional mattresses benefit from cleaning both sides.

Step 7: Repeat the Cleaning Process

Now repeat steps 2 through 5 on this side of the mattress. Vacuum thoroughly, treat any stains you find, apply baking soda, let it sit, and vacuum again. Both sides of your mattress collect dust, sweat, and dead skin over time.

Step 8: Let the Mattress Dry Completely

Before putting bedding back on, make sure your mattress is completely dry on both sides. Open windows or use a fan to speed up drying. A wet mattress can grow mold and mildew. This final step is very important for keeping your mattress healthy and safe to sleep on.

Most experts recommend deep cleaning your mattress every three to six months. However, the frequency depends on several factors. If you have pets, allergies, or young children, you may need to clean more often. People who sweat a lot during sleep should also clean their mattresses more frequently.

Light cleaning should happen more often than deep cleaning. Vacuum your mattress monthly to remove dust and debris. Change your sheets weekly and wash them in hot water. If you spill something on your mattress, clean it right away. Quick action prevents stains from setting in and stops bacteria from growing.

Keeping your mattress clean between deep cleaning sessions is easier than you think. These simple habits will help your mattress stay fresh and last longer.

- Use a Mattress Protector: A waterproof mattress protector is your best defense against spills and stains. It creates a barrier between your body and the mattress. Choose one that is breathable so you don't get too hot while sleeping.

- Wash Your Bedding Regularly: Change and wash your sheets every week. Use hot water to kill dust mites and bacteria. Clean pillowcases should be changed even more often, about twice a week.

- Keep Pets Off the Bed: Pet hair, dander, and accidents can make your mattress dirty quickly. Train your pets to sleep in their own beds. If you must share your bed with pets, use extra protective covers.

- Control Bedroom Humidity: High humidity helps dust mites and mold grow. Use a dehumidifier or air conditioner to keep humidity below 50%. Good air circulation also helps keep your mattress dry.

- Rotate Your Mattress Regularly: Turn your mattress every three months. This prevents one area from getting too much wear. It also helps the mattress dry evenly after cleaning.

- Don't Eat in Bed: Food crumbs attract insects and can stain your mattress. Keep all meals and snacks away from your sleeping area. Only drink water in bed if necessary.

- Address Spills Immediately: Clean up any liquid spills right away. Use a clean towel to absorb as much liquid as possible. Then follow the stain removal steps from the cleaning guide above.

- Invest in Good Pillows: Quality pillows reduce the amount of sweat and oils that reach your mattress. Replace old pillows that have lost their shape or support.