Your mattress is one of the most important pieces of furniture in your home, yet it’s also one of the easiest to overlook when it comes to cleaning. Over time, mattresses absorb sweat, dust mites, allergens, odours, and spills — all of which can affect sleep quality and hygiene.
Regular cleaning helps extend the life of your mattress, improves comfort, and supports a healthier sleep environment. This step-by-step guide will help you keep your mattress fresh, clean, and performing at its best.
Step 1: Strip the Bed and Wash Your Bedding
Remove all sheets, pillowcases, and protectors. Wash them using the warmest temperature recommended on the care label to kill bacteria and dust mites.
If your mattress isn’t already protected, consider investing in a waterproof protector from our
Mattress Protectors Collection.
A protector prevents stains and helps maintain eligibility for mattress trials and warranty claims.
Step 2: Vacuum the Surface Thoroughly
Use a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery or brush attachment to remove:
- Dust
- Skin cells
- Pet hair
- Crumbs
-
Debris trapped in the fabric
Make sure to vacuum all sides of the mattress, including edges and seams where dust mites often settle.
Step 3: Spot Clean Stains Carefully
Before using any cleaning solution, check your mattress care instructions. Most stains can be treated using one of the following:
Sweat or Yellowing
Mix mild detergent with warm water and dab gently — do not soak the mattress.
Urine Stains
Use an enzyme cleaner or a mixture of white vinegar and baking soda.
Blood Stains
Use cold water combined with a gentle detergent or hydrogen peroxide (test first).
Always blot — never rub — to avoid spreading the stain deeper into the fabric.
Step 4: Deodorise With Baking Soda
Sprinkle a thin layer of baking soda over the entire surface of the mattress. Let it sit for several hours (the longer, the better). This helps absorb:
- Odours
- Moisture
- Natural oils
-
Bacteria
Once it settles, vacuum the baking soda thoroughly.
For extra freshness, add a few drops of essential oil (optional).
Step 5: Allow the Mattress to Air Out
If possible, place your mattress in direct sunlight or open windows in the room to improve airflow. Sunlight helps:
- Kill bacteria
- Reduce moisture
-
Minimise odours
Even one to two hours of fresh air can significantly refresh your mattress.
Step 6: Flip or Rotate Your Mattress
Most modern mattresses should be rotated every 3 to 6 months. This prevents uneven wear and extends the lifespan.
Check your specific mattress care label, as some models should not be flipped.
If you’re looking to enhance comfort or extend longevity, browse our
Mattress Accessories Collection.
Step 7: Protect Your Mattress to Keep It Clean
Once your mattress is clean, protect it with a high-quality waterproof protector. This is the easiest and most effective way to prevent:
- Stains
- Dust mites
- Allergens
-
Moisture damage
Using a protector ensures your mattress stays cleaner for longer and supports long-term hygiene.
How Often Should You Clean Your Mattress?
A good routine is:
- Vacuuming: Every 1–2 months
- Spot cleaning: As needed
- Deep cleaning: Every 6 months
- Rotating the mattress: Every 3–6 months
Following this schedule helps maintain comfort, durability, and overall sleep quality.
FAQ
How often should I deep clean my mattress?
A deep clean every 6 months is ideal for maintaining hygiene and extending mattress life.
Can I steam clean my mattress?
Steam cleaning is not recommended for most mattresses, as excess moisture can promote mould growth.
What’s the easiest way to prevent stains?
Use a waterproof mattress protector to block spills, sweat, and allergens from reaching your mattress.