How to clean a mattress: A step-by-step guide for every mattress type

For most mattress types, following these simple steps every few months will help keep your bed fresh and hygienic.

Remove all bedding, including your mattress protector. Wash your sheets, duvet cover and protector according to their care labels to eliminate dust mites and bacteria.

Using your vacuum's upholstery attachment, vacuum the entire mattress surface, paying close attention to seams, piping and tufted areas where dust and debris can collect.

Treat any visible stains before deodorising the mattress. Avoid soaking the mattress, as excess moisture can lead to mould or mildew.

We'll cover how to remove common stains later in this guide.

Sprinkle a generous layer of bicarbonate of soda (baking soda) over the mattress surface.

Leave it for at least 30 minutes, or up to eight hours if possible. Baking soda naturally absorbs moisture and neutralises odours.

Vacuum thoroughly to remove all traces of the baking soda.

If you can, open windows to improve ventilation and allow the mattress to air out before replacing your bedding.

Natural wool mattresses require a slightly gentler approach than standard mattresses.

Wool fibres naturally regulate temperature and wick away moisture, making them highly breathable. However, they don't respond well to excessive moisture or harsh cleaning products.

Follow the standard cleaning steps, but with these important differences:

Never pour water directly onto a wool mattress or use a steam cleaner. Too much moisture can damage the natural fibres and make drying difficult.

If you need to treat a stain, use a lightly damp cloth with a small amount of mild wool-safe detergent. Gently blot the stain rather than rubbing.

Avoid bleach, ammonia or enzyme cleaners unless the manufacturer specifically recommends them, as these can damage natural wool fibres.

Allow the mattress to dry completely before remaking the bed. Good airflow is essential.

Top tip: A breathable mattress protector is one of the best ways to keep a wool mattress clean while preserving its natural temperature-regulating properties.

Memory foam mattresses also need special care, as the foam absorbs moisture more easily than traditional sprung mattresses.

Follow the standard cleaning steps, but remember:

Memory foam should never be soaked. Instead, use a lightly damp cloth for spot cleaning.

The heat and moisture from steam cleaning can damage the foam's structure and reduce its performance.

Avoid scrubbing vigorously, as this can damage the foam surface.

If any moisture has been used, leave the mattress uncovered until it's completely dry before putting bedding back on.

The quicker you deal with stains, the easier they are to remove.

Blood stains are best treated with cold water, as hot water can set the stain.

1. Blot excess blood with a clean cloth.

2. Dampen another cloth with cold water.

3. Add a small amount of mild washing-up liquid if needed.

4. Gently blot the stain.

5. Repeat until the stain lifts.

6. Allow the mattress to dry fully.
   
   

Avoid rubbing, as this can push the stain deeper into the mattress fibres.

Fresh urine stains are much easier to tackle than dried ones.

1. Blot away as much liquid as possible using clean towels.

2. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.

3. Lightly mist the stained area.

4. Blot again with a clean cloth.

5. Sprinkle baking soda generously over the area.

6. Leave for several hours or overnight.

7. Vacuum thoroughly once dry.
   
   

The vinegar helps neutralise odours, while baking soda absorbs any remaining moisture.

Act quickly to prevent odours from setting.

1. Remove any solid matter carefully.

2. Blot excess moisture.

3. Spray a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water over the area.

4. Blot with a clean cloth.

5. Sprinkle baking soda over the stain.

6. Leave until completely dry.

7. Vacuum thoroughly.
   
   

If odours remain, repeat the deodorising process.

Yes — used correctly, white vinegar and baking soda can be an effective way to freshen your mattress.

Important tips

• Don't mix vinegar and baking soda together in the same container. They react immediately, creating fizz but reducing each ingredient's cleaning effectiveness.

• Apply vinegar first (if treating a stain), blot away excess moisture, then add baking soda afterwards.

• Always allow the mattress to dry completely before replacing bedding.

A quick vacuum every month can help remove dust and allergens, while a deeper clean every six months is ideal for most households.

You may want to clean your mattress more frequently if:

• You have allergies or asthma

• You share your bed with pets

• Young children regularly use the bed

• There has been a spill or accident
  
  

Washing your bedding weekly and using a quality mattress protector will also help reduce the build-up of dust, sweat and stains.

Regular cleaning is just one part of keeping your mattress in great condition.

To help extend a mattress' lifespan:

• Use a mattress protector all year round.

• Vacuum the mattress every month.

• Rotate your mattress every three to six months if recommended by the manufacturer.

• Avoid eating and drinking in bed where possible.

• Let your mattress breathe by pulling back the duvet for a short time each morning before making the bed.

• Follow the manufacturer's care instructions for your specific mattress.
  
  

Even with excellent care, every mattress has a lifespan. If yours is showing signs of sagging, no longer feels supportive or is more than seven to ten years old, it may be time to consider a replacement.