How to Get Smell Out of Mattress: Banish Odors with These Simple Steps

Understanding Mattress Odors

When I think about it, my mattress goes through a lot. It’s not just a comfy place to sleep; it’s a sponge for all kinds of things that contribute to smells. Body oils, sweat, and sometimes even urine accidents (especially if there are kids or pets in the house) can seep into the mattress. This creates an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive, which can lead to some pretty unpleasant odors.

Here’s a breakdown of what can cause these smells:

• Sweat and Moisture: These fluids go deep and provide a damp environment where mold and mildew can grow.
• Bacteria: They love the warm, moist areas that might form in my mattress due to sweat and other bodily fluids.
• Stains: Can often be a visual cue that there’s an odor-causing substance present.

Now, it’s not just organic stuff that makes a mattress smell. If I’ve got a new one, there’s a phenomenon called off-gassing. This is when volatile organic compounds (VOCs), like formaldehyde, release their chemical smell – what we often refer to as that “new mattress smell.”

On top of all this, there’s the constant shedding of dead skin cells and the ever-present dust mites that feed on them, both of which can worsen allergy symptoms.

• Dead Skin Cells: A feast for dust mites, which adds to the pile of allergens.
• Dust Mites: Their waste is a potent allergen and adds to the overall odor.

I keep in mind that regular cleaning can mitigate these issues, but understanding what causes the odors is the first step in tackling them.

Remembering this, let’s move to the next steps on how to keep the mattress smelling fresh.

Daily and Weekly Preventive Measures

I’ve found that the key to keeping my mattress fresh is incorporating some simple daily and weekly habits. These proactive steps can make a huge difference in maintaining a clean and odor-free sleeping environment.

Using Mattress Protectors

I always use a waterproof mattress protector. It acts as a barrier to shield the mattress from spills, sweat, and other bodily fluids that can cause odors. Plus, it’s super easy to remove and toss in the wash—no fuss!

Regular Vacuuming

Once a week, I take a few minutes to vacuum my mattress, focusing on seams and crevices. This helps prevent the buildup of dust and allergens that can affect both the smell and hygiene of my sleep space.

Air Purifiers and Sunlight Exposure

I use an air purifier in my bedroom to maintain indoor air quality. Every now and then, on a sunny day, I also let my mattress soak in some natural sunlight and fresh air, which is a great way to combat musty odors.

Washing Bedding Regularly

This is a big one for me—I wash my bedding at least once a week. Clean sheets, pillowcases, and duvet covers contribute to overall freshness and help stave off that unwanted mattress funk.

Spot Cleaning and Deodorizing Techniques

When I’m refreshing my sleeping space, I rely on certain spot cleaning and deodorizing techniques to tackle specific odors and stains on my mattress.

Baking Soda and Essential Oils

I’ve found that baking soda is a powerhouse for absorbing odors. Here’s my quick method:

1. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the spot.
2. Add a few drops of my favorite essential oils, like lavender or eucalyptus, to introduce a pleasant scent.
3. Leave the mixture on the spot for a couple of hours or overnight.
4. Vacuum the residual baking soda from the mattress.

Vinegar Solutions

Another approach I use involves vinegar, a natural deodorizer:

• I mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle.
• Gently mist the solution over the stained area without soaking the mattress.
• After letting it air dry, I often follow up with baking soda to further neutralize any lingering smells.

Enzyme Cleaners

For tougher biological stains like sweat or urine, I turn to enzyme cleaners. They not only clean but also break down the odors at the molecular level.

• Apply the enzyme cleaner according to the product’s instructions.
• Allow it to sit and work its magic for the specified time.
• Blot away any excess cleaner.

Steam Cleaning

Lastly, steam cleaning is a great way to deep clean and disinfect the mattress without using harsh chemicals.

• I make sure to use a hand-held steam cleaner and run it across the mattress, focusing on soiled spots.
• The heat from the steam helps to lift stains and kill off dust mites and bacteria.

By utilizing these techniques, I effectively spot clean and deodorize my mattress, ensuring a clean and fresh-smelling bed.

Addressing Persistent Smells and Stains

When I’m dealing with tough mattress odors and stains, I need strategies that go beyond basic surface cleaning. I focus on deep-cleaning methods, targeted treatments for various kinds of spills and bodily fluids, and specific approaches to pet, smoke, and chemical smells that can linger in the fibers.

Deep Cleaning Memory Foam Mattresses

Memory foam mattresses can’t be treated with a lot of liquid cleaners as they absorb moisture, which can lead to mold. For general freshening, I vacuum thoroughly first to remove dust and allergens. Then, I liberally sprinkle baking soda over the mattress and let it sit for several hours before vacuuming it off. This helps absorb odors without damaging the foam.

Treating Spills and Bodily Fluids

For bodily fluids, such as urine or night sweats, I start by blotting the area with a clean towel to absorb as much liquid as possible. Then, I mix a solution of 50% water and 50% white vinegar and lightly spray it on the stain. Sometimes, an enzyme-based laundry detergent is necessary to break down proteins and eliminate odors without harming the mattress.

Handling Pet-related Smells

Pet-related odors require a two-pronged approach: cleaning and prevention. I wash any removable covers with laundry detergent and treat the mattress with a vinegar mixture or enzyme cleaner specifically designed for pet stains. To prevent future odors, I use a waterproof mattress cover which also helps with potential health issues related to allergies and asthma from pet dander.

Removing Smoke and Chemical Odors

Smoke and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) like formaldehyde are particularly stubborn. I tackle them by airing out the mattress outside if possible, as sunshine and fresh air are excellent natural deodorizers. Back inside, I use activated charcoal or a dedicated odor eliminator designed to neutralize VOCs. Regular vacuuming with a HEPA filter can also reduce lingering odors which could cause respiratory issues. An important note: always check for flame retardants before applying any liquid methods, as these can affect the mattress’s fire resistance.

Maintaining a Fresh Mattress

I’ve found the best way to keep my mattress smelling fresh is by focusing on regular maintenance and attention to its accessories. I’ll walk you through flipping and rotating the mattress, the perks of refreshing mattress toppers and covers, and the importance of renewing mattress protectors.

Flipping and Rotating

I make it a habit to flip and rotate my mattress every three to six months. This not only helps with even wear but also promotes better air circulation. When I flip my mattress, I take that opportunity to let it air dry, especially if it’s a sunny day out.

• Flip: Turn the mattress over so the bottom side is now on top.
• Rotate: Spin the mattress 180 degrees so the head is now at the foot.

Doing this regularly can enhance my sleep quality because it prevents sagging and ensures that every part of the mattress gets equal use.

Upgrading Mattress Toppers and Covers

I like to add layers of comfort and protection with a high-quality Certipur-US certified mattress topper that’s flame