How to Clean Mattress Stains

Unfortunately there is no end-all, be-all solution to getting a stain out of a mattress. It all depends on the type of stain, how fresh the stain is, and the mattress itself. Before you go putting all sorts of cleaning chemicals on your mattress to get the stain out, check your warranty. Your mattress cleaning solution may be as easy as using your product warranty. If your warranty has expired or does not cover removal of your stain, there are a few methods you can try to clean mattress stains.

How to Clean Mattress Stains Using the Gentle Dry Suds Method
When working a stain out of a mattress, it is typically best to try out the gentlest method first. Many mattress manufacturers recommend trying the “Dry Suds” mattress cleaning method. This method typically works best on a fresh stain, but mattress cleaners have had success with removing older stains with this method as well. It is an inexpensive first method, so it is worth a shot before having to move on to expensive cleaners (or, worse yet, having to buy a new mattress).

When attempting the Dry Suds mattress cleaning method, you will need some mild dry powdered detergent, some warm water and an electric mixer or egg beater. Put about a quarter cup of the dry detergent in a bowl and start slowly adding warm water to the mix. Don’t add more than about a cup of water. Beat the water and detergent mixture with an egg beater or electric mixer on medium speed until suds form. The suds will be frothy and thick. Take the layer of suds off of the top of the bowl and rub them into the mattress stain with a sponge. Continue to work the dry suds into the stain until it begins to fade. If you have to add more suds, rinse the sponge off with warm water and ring it out profusely before applying back to the mattress. The idea is to keep the mattress as dry as you can while cleaning the stain. Completely dry the mattress before putting your sheets back on. You can use a gentle blow dryer or fan on the mattress or just keep it uncovered until it completely air dries.

How to Clean Mattress Stains Using Upholstery Cleaner
So, you try the Dry Suds method, wait for it to completely dry and, low and behold, the stain is still there. This is a difficult stain! If a mattress stain is particularly difficult, upholstery cleaner may be the only solution, even though using harsh chemicals on furniture is always risky. It may be best to go out and buy heavy-duty upholstery cleaner to work the spot out of a mattress. Using a biologically-based enzyme cleaner has been recommended to really break down tough stains and the odors associated with them. Make sure you follow the instructions carefully and allow the mattress to completely dry before covering with sheets or a mattress pad.

Unfortunately, using expensive upholstery cleaner may still not be effective, even if used properly. If this is the case, here are a few additional methods for particular types of stain.

Cleaning Blood Stains Out of a Mattress
Blood stains can be one of the most difficult spots to remove from any kind of fabric. If you have a blood stain on your mattress, treat it with some hydrogen peroxide. Pat the stain with a towel (one that you don’t mind bleaching, preferably white), working from the outer circle of the stain in. You will notice the spot start to bubble as the hydrogen peroxide works to remove the stain. Keep applying and blotting the spot until the blood is removed. Warning: Hydrogen peroxide can bleach fabric. Using it on your mattress may bleach it. Make sure you spot-check your mattress before applying hydrogen peroxide.

Removing Urine Stains From a Mattress
To remove urine stains from a mattress, try the hydrogen peroxide method. You can also try using white vinegar. If you attempt to clean the spot with white vinegar, treat the stain with the same method as the peroxide, blot the stain with a towel from the outside of the stain to the inside of the stain until it is removed.

Because urine may seep further into the mattress, make sure you cover the freshly cleaned area with baking soda to neutralize the odor and leave the baking soda on the damp area overnight. The next day vacuum the baking soda off the mattress. To further remove the odor you may want to put a couple of drying sheets on the mattress before putting the bedding back on.

Always remember, no matter what stain you are trying to remove, try your best to avoid dampening the inner mattress padding. If the mattress’ padding has been dampened by cleaning liquids or water it can be much more difficult to completely dry. If a mattress is not totally dry when covered with sheets and blankets, remaining moisture can cause mold and mildew to grow within the mattress. If this happens you will not only further damage your mattress, you will start to notice a strong odor and can potentially get sick from mold and mildew.

Hopefully these tips have helped you learn how to clean mattress stains. If you try all of these methods and the persistent spot still shows up, you may have to fork up the money for professional cleaners or purchase a new mattress. But, with any luck, one of these methods will work for you, preventing an expensive mattress purchase or high cleaning costs.

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