Removing Stains from a Mattress.

Cleaning Stains from a Mattress

If you’re wondering how to clean mattress stains, you’re not alone. Life happens – kids have accidents, drinks get spilled, and sometimes illness or sweat leaves behind unwanted marks. Over time, those stains can build up and make even the cleanest bedroom feel a little less fresh. The good news is that most mattress stains can be cleaned and deodorized with the right products, techniques, and a little patience.

I’ve had plenty of first-hand experience (thank you to my little ones for that), and I’ve learned that knowing how to clean mattress stains the right way makes all the difference. Whether you’re dealing with urine, blood, sweat, or an unknown mystery spot, this guide will help you restore your mattress and keep it clean and odor-free.

Before You Begin: Cleaning Precautions

• Avoid over-saturating the mattress. Too much liquid can soak deep into the padding, causing mildew, mold, or damage to the internal structure.
• Always blot – never scrub. Scrubbing pushes the stain deeper into the fibers, while blotting lifts it out.
• Work quickly. The sooner you treat a stain, the better the results.
• Use gentle, safe cleaners. Harsh chemicals can damage fabric or irritate sensitive skin.

If you’re using any new cleaning product, always do a small spot test first to make sure it won’t discolor or damage the mattress fabric.

Step 1: Identify the Stain

Before deciding how to clean mattress stains, figure out what caused them. Different types of stains require different treatments.

• Urine stains often come with odor and discoloration.
• Blood stains can dry quickly and set deeply.
• Sweat stains may cause yellowing and odor buildup over time.
• Unexplained stains could signal something else – for example, black dots or tiny rust-colored spots along seams can mean bed bugs. If that’s the case, remove the mattress from your home and call an exterminator.

Step 2: Basic Mattress Cleaning Process

1. Blot up any fresh moisture. Use clean white towels or paper towels to soak up as much liquid as possible.
2. Lightly apply a cleaning solution. Hydrogen peroxide (3%) works well for most organic stains such as urine or blood. Apply it using a spray bottle to lightly mist the area – don’t pour it directly on.
3. Let it fizz and lift. When hydrogen peroxide reacts with blood or urine, it foams slightly. Allow it to sit for 5–10 minutes.
4. Blot again. Use fresh towels to gently blot away the liquid and loosened stain.
5. Repeat if needed. For stubborn or dried stains, repeat the process once more.

Step 3: For Extra-Strong or Old Stains

If the stain is set in or discolored, you may need a stronger approach:

• Borax powder: Sprinkle dry borax directly on the stain and gently rub it in with a soft cloth or brush. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes, then lightly mist with hydrogen peroxide and blot dry.
• Enzyme cleaner: For urine or other protein-based stains, an enzyme cleaner designed for fabrics breaks down organic matter and removes odors. Follow the label instructions carefully.

Step 4: Deodorize the Mattress

Even after stains are gone, odors can linger. To refresh your mattress:

• Sprinkle baking soda generously over the cleaned area.
• Let it sit for several hours or overnight to absorb odors and moisture.
• Vacuum thoroughly to remove all the powder.

This step helps eliminate musty smells and keeps your mattress smelling fresh.

Step 5: Drying the Mattress

Proper drying is essential when cleaning mattress stains effectively.

• If possible, place the mattress in a sunny, well-ventilated area. Sunlight helps disinfect and speed up drying.
• If drying indoors, use a fan or dehumidifier to circulate air.
• Press gently on the cleaned area to ensure moisture hasn’t sunk deep inside.
• Do not put bedding back on until the mattress is completely dry.

A damp mattress can trap bacteria, odors, and mold – all of which can shorten its lifespan.

Preventing Mattress Stains from Happening

Once your mattress is clean, keep it that way:

• Use a waterproof mattress protector to prevent spills and stains from soaking in.
• Don’t allow food or drinks in bed – unless someone is sick.
• Wash your bedding weekly to reduce sweat, oil, and dust buildup.
• Vacuum your mattress every few months to remove dust mites and debris.
• Allow your mattress to air out occasionally by leaving it uncovered for a few hours during the day.

How to Clean Mattress Stains

Learning how to clean mattress stains may seem intimidating at first, but it’s completely doable with the right approach. The key is acting quickly, using minimal moisture, and making sure the mattress is fully dry afterward.

With these cleaning tips and a few common household products like hydrogen peroxide, borax, and baking soda, you can handle most mattress stains on your own – and keep your bed fresh, sanitary, and comfortable for years to come.

Now that you know how to clean mattress stains, you’ll sleep easier knowing your bed is spotless, odor-free, and truly clean.