Mattress Cleaning Guide: Dust Mites, Stains and Allergies

Mattress cleaning is the household job nobody talks about, yet we spend around a third of our lives in bed. Over the years a mattress collects sweat, skin flakes, dust and the odd spill, and it can become a comfortable home for dust mites.

If you wake up congested, or you are buying a second-hand bed or preparing for an end-of-lease inspection, a proper clean is worth doing. Here is how to do it safely at home and when to bring in a professional.

Why mattresses need cleaning

Your body releases moisture and sheds skin cells every night. Dust mites feed on those skin cells and thrive in warm, humid conditions. Their droppings are a common trigger for people with asthma, eczema and hay fever. Stains and odours from spills, sweat or accidents can also build up in the layers of foam and fabric.

Washing sheets is not enough on its own, because many of these particles sit well inside the mattress. A regular routine helps keep the surface fresh and the bedroom more comfortable.

Step by step DIY mattress clean

1. Strip the bed. Wash sheets, protectors and pillowcases in the hottest water the care label allows.
2. Vacuum the whole surface. Use an upholstery attachment and go over the top, sides and seams, where dust gathers.
3. Spot treat stains. Blot gently with a cloth lightly dampened with cold water and a small amount of mild detergent. Do not soak the mattress.
4. Deodorise. Sprinkle bicarbonate of soda over the whole surface and leave it for several hours, ideally a day, then vacuum it up.
5. Air it out. If you can, let the mattress dry in a well-ventilated room, and a bit of sunlight can help freshen it.
6. Flip or rotate. Follow the manufacturer's advice for your type of mattress, since many modern ones should be rotated but not flipped.

Tackling particular stains

For blood, use cold water only because heat can set the stain. For urine, blot up as much as possible, then treat with a product designed for it, and make sure the mattress dries thoroughly. For sweat marks and general yellowing, a gentle cleaner and bicarbonate of soda usually helps. Always test in an inconspicuous spot first.

Mistakes to avoid

• Soaking the mattress, which can lead to mould inside the layers
• Using strong bleach, which can damage fabric and foam
• Putting a damp mattress back on the bed or covering it too soon
• Ignoring the care label or warranty conditions on your mattress

When to book a professional

A professional mattress clean is worth considering when:

• Someone in the home has allergies or asthma and you want a deeper clean
• There are old or large stains, or lingering odours from pets or accidents
• You have bought a second-hand mattress or moved into a new place
• You are cleaning for an end-of-lease inspection or a furnished rental
• You have noticed signs of bed bugs or mould, which need urgent attention

Professionals typically use equipment such as hot water extraction, strong vacuums, steam or sanitising treatments. Ask what method they use and whether it suits your mattress type, because memory foam and latex are more sensitive to moisture than traditional innerspring models.

What affects the price

Prices differ by city and by provider. Factors include mattress size, the number of mattresses, the level of staining, whether treatments like mite or odour treatments are included and how quickly you need the job done. Many companies offer discounts when you book several mattresses or combine with carpet or upholstery cleaning.

Keeping a mattress cleaner for longer

• Use a washable, breathable mattress protector and wash it regularly
• Wash sheets weekly in warm water
• Vacuum the mattress every few months
• Air the bedroom daily by opening windows when weather allows
• Avoid eating in bed, and deal with spills immediately

Key takeaways

• Vacuum, spot clean lightly and deodorise, but never soak.
• Let the mattress dry fully before making the bed.
• Book a professional for allergies, heavy stains or second-hand beds.
• A protector is the cheapest way to prolong a mattress.