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How to Clean a Mattress: A Simple Routine

Strip the bed, vacuum the mattress, spot treat stains, sprinkle baking soda, let it sit, vacuum again, and protect with a washable cover.

By Back To The Garden Cleaning | Updated October 9, 2026

Short answer: Strip the bed, vacuum the mattress, spot treat stains, sprinkle baking soda, let it sit, vacuum again, and protect with a washable cover.
A cleaning crew in green aprons and yellow gloves dusting, mopping and vacuuming a bright living room

Key takeaways

  • Wash bedding regularly and vacuum the mattress.
  • Spot treat stains gently and use baking soda for odors.
  • Protect the mattress with a washable cover.
  • Clean on a regular schedule.

Step 1: Strip and wash bedding

Wash sheets and mattress covers on the warmest setting the care label allows.

Step 2: Vacuum

Use an upholstery attachment on the top, sides, and seams.

Step 3: Spot treat

Blot stains with a small amount of mild soap and water, then blot dry. Avoid soaking the mattress.

Step 4: Baking soda

Sprinkle baking soda over the surface, wait a few hours, and vacuum it up.

Step 5: Protect it

A washable mattress protector makes future cleaning much easier. Rotate or flip the mattress as the manufacturer recommends.

A simple mattress routine

Strip and wash the bedding weekly, or as often as you need. Every few months, vacuum the mattress top and sides with an upholstery attachment, treat any spots, and sprinkle baking soda to freshen it.

Let the mattress air out for a few hours before remaking the bed, especially after treating stains.

Protecting your investment

A washable mattress protector blocks spills and makes cleaning easier. Rotating the mattress on the schedule the manufacturer suggests helps it wear evenly.

If a mattress has a persistent odor or a stain that will not lift, follow the care instructions or ask a professional for advice.

Diana Isabella, founder of Back To The Garden Cleaning
Written by the Back To The Garden Cleaning team

We are a woman-owned, faith-based cleaning company in Youngstown, Ohio, led by founder Diana Isabella. These tips come from real jobs in homes, offices, and churches.

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Soaking the mattress.
  • Using harsh cleaners that damage the fabric.
  • Putting the bed back together before it is fully dry.
Need help? We offer deep cleaning across Mahoning, Trumbull, and Columbiana Counties. Get a FREE estimate or call (330) 328-7658.
FAQs

Quick answers

How often should I clean my mattress?

Many people vacuum and freshen a mattress every few months, and wash bedding weekly or as needed.

Can I use baking soda on a mattress?

Yes, sprinkle it on, let it sit, and vacuum it up. Test first on delicate fabrics.

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