Keeping your memory foam mattress clean is essential for ensuring it stays comfortable and lasts a long time. Memory foam is porous and can absorb body oils, sweat, and other contaminants that can degrade the foam and lead to odors or stains over time. Thoroughly cleaning a memory foam mattress requires more than just vacuuming the surface. Follow these steps to deep clean your memory foam mattress and keep it in great condition.
Supplies Needed for Cleaning a Memory Foam Mattress
Cleaning a memory foam mattresses takes some specific supplies. Before you get started, gather the following:
- Vacuum cleaner with hose attachment – You’ll need a vacuum that can reach into crevices and suck up dust and debris from the mattress surface. A hose attachment is ideal.
- Baking soda – Baking soda helps absorb and neutralize odors.
- Dish soap or mild detergent – Use a gentle soap that won’t damage the memory foam.
- Clean sponges or soft bristle brush – For scrubbing the mattress cover without harming the memory foam.
- Old towels – Have some towels on hand to pat dry any excess moisture.
- Enzyme cleaner (optional) – An enzyme based cleaner can help break down organic matter like sweat and body oils.
- Hydrogen peroxide (optional) – Diluted hydrogen peroxide can disinfect and brighten the mattress.
- Essential oils (optional) – Add a few drops of essential oil to provide a fresh scent. Lavender and citrus oils work well.
How to Vacuum a Memory Foam Mattress
Vacuuming is the first step to cleaning a memory foam mattress and should be done regularly. Here’s how to vacuum a memory foam mattress properly:
- Strip the mattress of all bedding and make sure the surface is clear of clutter and debris.
- Attach a hose and crevice tool to your vacuum. This will allow you to reach into creases and gaps in the mattress surface.
- Vacuum the entire surface of the mattress, being sure to get into any folds, crevices, or seams. Go over the surface thoroughly.
- Pay close attention to areas where dust and debris accumulate like the perimeter and head of the mattress.
- Lift up any mattress skirts or corner guards to vacuum debris that may be trapped there.
- Flip the mattress and vacuum the other side as well. Make sure to get both the top and bottom surfaces.
- When finished, check your vacuum hose and tools for any collected debris that needs to be removed.
Regular vacuuming will remove surface-level dirt, dust mites, and other allergens from a memory foam mattress. It’s recommended to vacuum a memory foam mattress every 2-3 months for proper maintenance.
How to Deep Clean a Memory Foam Mattress
While vacuuming tackles surface debris, deep cleaning is needed to sanitize and freshen the mattress foam and materials. Follow these steps:
Step 1 – Vacuum Thoroughly
Vacuum the entire mattress on both sides using the hose attachment. This will prepare the mattress for additional cleaning steps.
Step 2 – Spot Clean With Dish Soap
Inspect the mattress covers and surface for any visible stains or soiled spots. Use a soft bristle brush or sponge with dish soap and warm water to gently scrub any soiled or stained areas. Avoid harsh scrubbing, as this can damage the memory foam. Pat dry with a clean towel.
Step 3 – Sprinkle Baking Soda
Liberally sprinkle baking soda over the entire mattress surface. This will help absorb odors and neutralize acids in perspiration that can degrade foam. Allow the baking soda to sit for at least 15 minutes.
Step 4 – Vacuum Again
Use the vacuum and crevice tool to thoroughly remove all baking soda residue from the mattress surface, including cracks and crevices.
Step 5 (Optional) – Hydrogen Peroxide Disinfecting
For deeper disinfecting, create a solution of 2 parts water and 1 part 3% hydrogen peroxide in a spray bottle. Lightly mist over the mattress surface and allow to sit for 5-10 minutes before patting dry with a clean towel. The hydrogen peroxide will kill microbes and also brighten and whiten discolored foam.
Step 6 (Optional) – Add Essential Oils
To leave your mattress smelling fresh, add 5-10 drops of your favorite essential oil like lavender or lemon to a spray bottle filled with water. Lightly mist the diluted oil over your mattress and allow to dry.
Step 7 – Put on Mattress Protector
Encase your mattress in a waterproof mattress protector or cover. This will prevent future stains and spills from compromising the mattress.
Tips for Cleaning Memory Foam Mattress Covers
Mattress covers should be cleaned regularly to prevent buildup of oils, sweat, and dirt. Here are some useful tips for cleaning memory foam mattress covers and protectors:
- Check cover labels for care instructions and follow accordingly. Many are machine washable.
- Pretreat stubborn stains by rubbing dish soap or laundry pretreater into the stain before washing.
- Wash mattress covers separately from other items to prevent lint transfer.
- Use a gentle laundry detergent and wash on the delicate or gentle cycle in cold water.
- Avoid using bleach or fabric softeners which can damage material.
- Line dry or tumble dry on low when possible to prevent heat damage.
- Covers that aren’t machine washable can be spot cleaned by dabbing stains with a damp sponge and mild detergent.
- Steam cleaning can disinfect and freshen mattress covers that aren’t removable.
- Air out the cover in the sun regularly to prevent odor buildup.
Taking steps to properly clean your mattress cover will help keep your mattress clean and well protected.
How Often Should You Clean Your Memory Foam Mattress?
Here are some general guidelines for how often to clean a memory foam mattress for proper maintenance:
- Weekly – Strip bed linens and allow the mattress to air out for a few hours.
- Monthly – Vacuum both sides of the mattress to remove dust and debris.
- Every 2-3 Months – Deep clean the mattress with baking soda and peroxide solution.
- Every 6 Months – Wash and sanitize removable mattress covers and protectors.
- Yearly – Consider hiring a professional mattress cleaning service for a thorough deep cleaning.
Cleaning frequency may need to be increased if you sweat excessively at night, have pets that sleep on the bed, or otherwise soil your mattress more quickly. Keeping to a regular cleaning schedule will help prolong the life of a memory foam mattress.
Professional Mattress Cleaning Services
For a thorough deep cleaning, consider hiring professional mattress cleaning services. Reputable companies use powerful equipment and products not available for home use. Professional mattress cleaning typically involves:
- Powerful truck-mounted vacuums to deeply suction dirt and dust
- Steam cleaning to sanitize and disinfect mattress materials
- Pressurized air for drying and deodorizing foam
- Sanitizing agents and enzyme cleaners to break down organic matter
- Chemical sanitization of mattresses affected by bed bugs or illness
Look for licensed and insured mattress cleaning specialists. Ask about their specific cleaning process and products used. Professional mattress cleaning costs around $100 to $200 on average but yields longer lasting results.
How to Clean Different Types of Mattress Stains
Accidents happen. Learn how to tackle stains on your memory foam mattress:
Blood Stains
- Use cold water and a sponge to blot and lift the stain. Avoid rubbing.
- Make a paste of 1 tbsp baking soda + 1 tbsp cold water and gently dab onto the stain.
- Allow the baking soda paste to dry completely then vacuum away.
- Hydrogen peroxide can also help lift blood stains. Apply and let sit for 10 minutes before dabbing dry.
Food and Drink Stains
- First blot liquids and scrape away any solid food bits.
- Mix dish soap with warm water and gently scrub the stain using a soft bristled brush.
- Rinse clean with a sponge and cold water, patting dry with a towel.
- For tough stains, make a baking soda paste and let sit before vacuuming.
Sweat and Body Oil Stains
- Liberally sprinkle baking soda over oily stains and allow to sit overnight before vacuuming. The baking soda will help absorb oils.
- Make a solution of 2 parts water, 1 part vinegar and dab onto the stain. Let sit 5 minutes before patting dry with a towel. The vinegar will help neutralize odors.
Pet Urine Stains
- Use paper towels or a dry cloth to immediately blot up as much urine as possible after accidents happen. This will limit how deeply it soaks into foam.
- Mix an enzyme cleaner specifically formulated for pet stains in with warm water and gently scrub into the affected area. Let sit for 5-10 minutes before patting dry with a clean towel.
With the proper cleaning techniques, even tough mattress stains and soiling can be effectively removed. Be sure to take action as soon as possible for the best results.
Keeping Your Memory Foam Mattress Fresh Between Cleanings
Here are some tips to help keep your memory foam mattress fresher between periodic deep cleanings:
- Use a mattress protector to shield the foam from spills, stains, and body oils.
- Let your mattress air out for 30-60 minutes in the morning by folding back bedding.
- Sprinkle baking soda lightly over the mattress before putting on sheets to absorb odors.
- Vacuum the mattress every week or two using the crevice tool to remove surface dust and debris.
- Flip or rotate your mattress regularly to prevent uneven wear patterns that lead to impressions.
- Wash bedding regularly in hot water to kill dust mites and bacteria.
- Open windows regularly to allow fresh air into your bedroom.
- Limit eating and drinking in bed to prevent stains.
With frequent and thorough cleaning, you can keep your memory foam mattress in great shape for many years. Be attentive to any changes in the mattress condition and promptly treat stains, odors, or other issues that arise. A clean and well cared for memory foam mattress will provide healthy, comfortable sleep night after night.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning Memory Foam Mattresses
What is the best way to clean memory foam?
The best way to clean memory foam is to start with regular vacuuming, then periodic deep cleaning using dish soap or hydrogen peroxide applied with a soft brush. Avoid harsh cleaners that could breakdown memory foam. Spot treat stains as soon as possible.
Can I steam clean my memory foam mattress?
Steam cleaning is not recommended for memory foam mattresses, as the intense heat and moisture can damage or misshape the foam. It’s best to deep clean using gentle dish soap, hydrogen peroxide, or baking soda instead.
How do you get odors out of a memory foam mattress?
To remove odors from memory foam, liberally sprinkle baking soda over the surface and let sit overnight before vacuuming away. Hydrogen peroxide or white vinegar solutions can also help neutralize mattress odors and freshen the foam.
Can I use vinegar to clean a memory foam mattress?
Yes, white vinegar is safe to use for cleaning memory foam. Mix a solution of 1 part vinegar to 1 part water and use a sponge to gently dab it onto stained or smelly areas. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before patting dry with a clean towel. The vinegar will help cut through odors.
How do you dry a memory foam mattress after cleaning?
After cleaning with any liquids, always pat your memory foam mattress dry with clean towels. Allowing moisture to air dry can damage memory foam. To speed drying, use a fan or dehumidifier to circulate air until completely dry. It typically takes 4-6 hours to fully dry foam.
Conclusion
Cleaning a memory foam mattress thoroughly is important for getting rid of dust, allergens, bacteria, and stain-causing contaminants. By vacuuming regularly and deep cleaning every few months with safe cleaning solutions, you can keep your mattress fresh, hygienic, and extend its durability. Be attentive to spills and stains by treating them promptly. With proper care, a memory foam mattress can provide many years of healthy, comfortable sleep. Just be sure to use only gentle cleaning methods recommended for memory foam, and avoid harsh chemicals, steam, or excess moisture. Your mattress will thank you!