Cleaning a Mattress Stain: Step-by-Step Methods That Actually Work

Reading Time: 7 minutes

Every mattress stain has a different source, and cleaning one incorrectly can set it permanently into the fabric and foam. The steps below are specific to each stain type, with the right cleaning agents and the right technique to remove the stain without saturating or damaging the mattress. Follow these methods and your mattress will come out clean without the mould risk that comes from using too much liquid.

Before You Start: The Two Rules

Regardless of stain type, two rules apply to every mattress cleaning situation:

Rule 1: Blot, never scrub. Scrubbing spreads the stain laterally and drives it deeper into the foam layers. Always press a clean cloth into the stain and lift. Repeat with a fresh area of cloth each time. This lifts the stain up rather than spreading it around.

Rule 2: Use as little moisture as possible. A mattress cannot be rung out like a cloth. Moisture that enters the foam core stays there and can grow mould over weeks to months without any visible sign until the smell arrives. Apply cleaning solutions sparingly, press dry aggressively after each application, and air dry completely before covering.

General Stains

For food, beverages, and unidentified marks:

1. Blot up as much of the stain as possible with a dry white cloth.
2. Mix 1 tablespoon of mild dish soap with 1 cup of cold water.
3. Dampen a clean cloth in the solution and dab the stain working from the edges inward.
4. Press dry with a fresh dry cloth.
5. Repeat until the stain lifts.
6. Dab with plain cold water to remove soap residue.
7. Press dry again and allow to fully air dry.

8 min read

Urine Stains

Fresh Urine

1. Act immediately. Place several layers of dry towels over the wet area and press down firmly to absorb as much liquid as possible.
2. Mix equal parts white vinegar and cold water in a spray bottle.
3. Lightly spray the area and let it sit for 5 minutes. Do not saturate.
4. Blot dry thoroughly.
5. Sprinkle baking soda generously over the damp area.
6. Leave for 8 to 12 hours, then vacuum off completely.

Set or Dried Urine

1. Apply an enzyme-based cleaner (pet urine formulas work best) directly to the stain.
2. Cover with a damp cloth and let dwell for 10 to 15 minutes.
3. Blot dry thoroughly.
4. Repeat if odour persists. Enzyme cleaners require contact time to break down uric acid crystals.
5. Follow with baking soda treatment as above once the area is dry.

Blood Stains

Fresh Blood

1. Blot immediately with cold water and a clean cloth. Do not use hot water.
2. Continue blotting with fresh cold water until no more colour transfers to the cloth.
3. Press dry and air dry fully.

Dried Blood

1. Mix 2 tablespoons of 3% hydrogen peroxide with 1 tablespoon of dish soap.
2. Test on a hidden area first (hydrogen peroxide can lighten some fabrics).
3. Apply to the stain and let sit for 5 minutes.
4. Blot dry, then dab with cold water to remove residue.
5. Press dry and air dry completely.

Sweat and Yellowing

Sweat stains cause the yellow discolouration that gradually develops on mattress surfaces. They are caused by the oxidation of sweat oils combined with bacteria and skin cells.

1. Mix 1 cup of 3% hydrogen peroxide, 3 tablespoons of baking soda, and 3 drops of dish soap into a solution.
2. Apply directly to the yellowed area with a cloth or spray bottle.
3. Let it sit and dry on the mattress surface (30 to 60 minutes).
4. Once dry, vacuum off the baking soda residue.
5. Repeat for stubborn yellowing.

Drying the Mattress

After any cleaning, the mattress must dry completely before you cover it again. Here is how to accelerate drying safely:

• Prop the mattress on its side against a wall to allow air circulation on both sides if possible.
• Place a fan directed at the cleaned area on a medium setting.
• In summer, bring the mattress near an open window for cross-ventilation.
• Use a dehumidifier in the room to accelerate moisture evaporation.
• Do not use a hair dryer or heat gun directly on foam, which can damage the cell structure.

Most spot-cleaned mattresses are fully dry within 2 to 6 hours under these conditions. If you need to sleep on it before full drying, place several dry towels over the cleaned area and lie on those rather than the mattress surface directly.

Shop: Mattress Protectors at Mattress Miracle

Visit Our Brantford Showroom

If staining has become a recurring problem, the right mattress protector prevents it from happening again. Mattress Miracle carries washable, waterproof, and breathable protectors for all mattress sizes. Stop in and we will match you with the right one for your mattress.

Mattress Miracle , 441½ West Street, Brantford, ON , (519) 770-0001

Hours: Monday to Wednesday 10am to 6pm, Thursday to Friday 10am to 7pm, Saturday 10am to 5pm, Sunday 12pm to 4pm.

We are here to help you protect your sleep investment.

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