How To Deodorise a Mattress

Lenard Nagy
Mar 18, 2024

Are you tossing and turning at night, not just because of stress or an old mattress, but due to unpleasant odours that seem to have made your bed their home? It's a common challenge many people face, as mattresses can trap everything from sweat and body oils to accidental spills, leading to an unrested environment.

But there's no need to worry or consider buying a new mattress. In this blog, we'll guide you through some simple and effective steps to deodorise your mattress, transforming it back into the cosy haven it's meant to be.

Whether you want to treat an accidental spill or just aim to freshen things up, our easy, do-it-yourself solutions will help ensure your bed feels as inviting and refreshing as a brand new one.

So, without any further ado, let's get started.

What Are the Causes of Mattress Odours?

Mattress odors can arise from several factors, including:

Body Sweat and Oils:

Every night, our bodies naturally sweat and produce oils. This is totally normal, but when we sleep, this moisture and oil soak into our mattresses. Over time, this can lead to a musty or sour smell, especially if the mattress doesn't get a chance to dry out properly during the day.

Spills and Crumbs:

Enjoying a snack or drink in bed might seem like a cosy idea, but spills and crumbs can get into the mattress. These bits of food and liquid can create an unpleasant smell, especially if they're not cleaned up quickly. It's like leaving food out on the counter; after a while, it starts to smell bad.

Dust and Allergens:

Our bedrooms are full of tiny particles like dust, pet dander, and other allergens. These can settle on our beds and get absorbed into the mattress. Over time, they can contribute to a musty smell, especially if the mattress isn't cleaned regularly.

How Can You Prevent Your Mattress from Odours?

To improve mattress longevity following steps can be consider

Mattress Protector:

A mattress protector is like a thin, waterproof cover that fits over your mattress. It acts as a barrier, keeping sweat, oils, and spills from getting into the mattress. This makes it much easier to keep your mattress clean and smell-free.

Regular Cleaning:

Cleaning your bed sheets, pillowcases, and mattress protector regularly is key to keeping your mattress fresh. Washing these items gets rid of sweat, oils, and dust that build up over time. It's a good habit to wash your bedding every one to two weeks.

Air Out Your Mattress: 

Letting your mattress air out can really help keep it fresh. When you change your bedding, leave the mattress uncovered for a few hours. If you can, open a window to let fresh air flow over the mattress. This helps moisture evaporate and keeps the mattress smelling clean.

Simple Home Solutions for Mattress Deodorisation

When it comes to keeping your mattress fresh, there are some simple tricks you can use to get rid of unwanted smells, including:

Baking Soda Freshen-Up: 

Baking soda is great for absorbing odours. Every now and then, sprinkle a thin layer of baking soda over your mattress. Let it sit for a few hours to soak up any smells, then vacuum it off. This is an easy and natural way to freshen up your mattress without using strong chemicals.

Essential Oil Boost:

If you like a bit of a pleasant scent, you can add a few drops of your favourite essential oil to the baking soda and sprinkle it on your bed. Lavender is a great choice because it's known for helping people relax and sleep better.

Sunshine and Fresh Air:

Sometimes, all your mattress needs is a little time out in the sun. If it's possible, take your mattress outside and let it sit in the sunlight for a few hours. The sun's rays can help kill off any odour-causing bacteria and leave your mattress smelling fresh.

How Can You Deep Clean Your Mattress Like a Pro?

For those times when your mattress needs a bit more than just a quick freshen-up, these deep cleaning methods can help. Here they are:

Vacuuming:

Start by giving your mattress a good vacuum. Use the upholstery attachment on your vacuum cleaner to get rid of dust, crumbs, and other bits that have made their way into the surface of your mattress. Make sure to get into all the crevices and along the edges.

Spot Cleaning:

If there are specific spots or stains on your mattress, you'll need to tackle those directly. Mix a small amount of gentle dish soap with water and lightly dab at the stain with a clean cloth. Be careful not to get the mattress too wet, and always use cold water to avoid setting the stain.

Enzyme Cleaner:

For tougher stains or odours, like pet accidents, an enzyme cleaner can be a good option. These cleaners break down the odour-causing substances. Just be sure to follow the instructions on the cleaner, as each brand might be a bit different.

Remember, the key to a fresh mattress is regular care and quick action when spills or accidents happen. With these simple deodorising and deep cleaning methods, you can keep your mattress smelling and feeling clean, ensuring a better night's sleep.

What Are the Best Approaches to Tackle Specific Odours for Mattress Freshness?

Sometimes, our mattresses can pick up certain types of smells that need a bit more specific care to remove. So, here are a few methods to eliminate these odours:

Sweat and Body Odour:

For odours coming from sweat and body oils, a mix of baking soda and a few drops of essential oil like lavender or tea tree can work wonders. Sprinkle this mix over your mattress, let it sit, and then vacuum it off. These oils not only smell great but also have natural antibacterial properties.

Pet Odours:

If your furry friend has had an accident on the bed, or if there's just a general pet smell, an enzyme cleaner is your best bet. These cleaners are made to break down the smell at its source. Just make sure to test it on a small area first to ensure it doesn't damage your mattress.

Mould and Mildew:

If you live in a damp area and your mattress has gotten a musty, moldy smell, white vinegar can help. Lightly spray a mix of vinegar and water on your mattress, being careful not to soak it. Then, let it air dry completely, preferably in sunlight.

To Conclude:

Keeping your mattress fresh and free from unpleasant odours is all about understanding the sources of these smells and tackling them with simple, effective methods. From using baking soda and essential oils to deep cleaning and addressing specific odours, there are plenty of do-it-yourself solutions.

Remember, regular maintenance and care are key to prolonging the freshness of your mattress. If you're looking for professional help to ensure your mattress is perfectly deodorised, consider Perfect Clean. Our expert services are designed to give your mattress a deep, refreshing clean, leaving it smelling and feeling like new. 

Reach out to Perfect Clean today for a truly restful night's sleep.

Would You Like a Free Cleaning Quote?

Contact Perfect Clean to get a cleaning quote within 60 minutes!
Get a Free Quote

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular household items to deodorise my mattress?

Yes, you can use items like baking soda and white vinegar, which are great for absorbing odours and leaving your mattress smelling fresh.

How often should I deodorise my mattress?

It's a good idea to deodorise your mattress every 3 to 6 months, or more frequently if you notice any persistent odours.

Is it safe to use essential oils on my mattress?

Yes, essential oils are safe for most mattresses when used in moderation. They can add a pleasant scent, and some have antibacterial properties.

Will deodorising my mattress remove stains as well?

Deodorising mainly targets smells, but some methods, like using baking soda and vinegar, can help lighten stains too.

Can sunlight help deodorise my mattress?

Absolutely! Sunlight is a natural deodoriser and can help eliminate bacteria and odours from your mattress.

What should I do if my mattress has a strong urine smell?

For urine odours, using an enzyme cleaner specifically designed to break down biological substances can be very effective.

Get a FREE Cleaning Quote

Fill out the form below and we’ll get back to you with a comprehensive cleaning estimate!

Check - Elements Webflow Library - BRIX Templates

Thank you

Please check your inbox to download your Free EBook!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
*FYI, parts of this blog post were drafted by artificial technlogy. But rest assured, it's been thoroughly researched, edited, reviewed and me & my team.