Karen warns that shampoo lacks the chemical makeup required to clean a mattress and keep it in good condition. However, the problems don't end there. 'Shampoo can also leave a soapy residue that can attract dirt and dust if not properly removed,' she cautions.
You can also use a mix of dish soap and water, using just the foamy suds that form on top. Other types of stains respond better to different cleaning solutions. A common option is to make a 1:1 solution of cold water and hydrogen peroxide. Regardless of the solution used, the method should be the same.
Sprinkle baking soda all over the entire mattress
The longer you can leave baking soda on the mattress, the better it will work! As the mattress sits with the baking soda, open any windows in the room to let the light and sunshine in. The sun's UV rays will actually help kill any mold or bacteria on the mattress.
The best thing to do is to tackle the stain immediately before it dries, but be careful not to use too much liquid. To remove stains from mattress covers or from the mattress itself, dilute some washing up liquid in water and gently sponge the stain until it lifts from the fibres.
A completely soaked mattress presents a challenging job as you try to remove all the water and moisture completely. A water-damaged mattress that is not properly cleaned can also be a dangerous breeding ground for mold, mildew and bacteria.
While you certainly can use a carpet cleaner on your mattress, it won't work for every bed. Earlier, we mentioned that carpet cleaners push water into upholstery and carpets while also agitating dirt, meaning folks using them on beds need to be mindful of their mattress' composition.
Cornstarch absorbs body oil, something else that may be making your bed smell. Mix cornstarch with baking soda and scatter it all over your mattress surface. Let the mixture rest on your bed for a day. Then vacuum the mattress surface to pick up the cornstarch-baking soda mixture.
You should clean your mattress at least twice per year. Despite the layers of sheets and mattress protectors, dust, dirt, oils, skin cells, and other debris can make it to the mattress itself.
Baking soda is a good option to deodorize your mattress quickly. Sprinkle baking soda on the mattress, let it sit for 30 minutes to two hours, and then vacuum it up. How do you get a smell out of a mattress? Sprinkling baking soda on top of the mattress will neutralize odors.
Generally, it's recommended to leave the baking soda on a mattress for 30 minutes to an hour. But for a deeper clean, let the baking soda sit for 24 hours. To avoid caked-on baking soda, check it every several hours and remove it once it has absorbed all moisture, stains, and odors.
If pets sleep with you or you like to snack in bed, chances are your mattress may have some stains on it. The easiest way to remove them is with a carpet and upholstery cleaner formulated to remove pet stains, like Good Housekeeping Seal star Bissell Pet Stain and Odor Remover.
However, if you feel your mattress needs a deeper clean, BISSELL suggests the use of the SpotClean Portable Upholstery and Carpet Washer, or the SpotClean Turbo. Both are excellent upholstery cleaners and will ensure that your bed is spotless and free of dirt.
Make sure you use a wet/dry vacuum and not your regular vacuum. Repeat the cleaning steps above to remove any urine stains or odor that remain. Use a clean towel to dry the area, and allow the mattress to fully air dry (outside in the sun, if possible) before applying sheets.
Baking soda naturally absorbs moisture and odor-causing particles. That makes it a great natural cleaner for your mattress. Take 1-3 cups (208-624 g) of baking soda and sprinkle it liberally over the entire surface of your mattress, especially if it hasn't been cleaned in a while or has a stong smell.
Accidents happen. It's one of those facts of life. But they don't have to ruin your mattress. Whether you encounter a wet pee spot or a dried urine stain, the situation can ultimately be remedied with a few easy cleaning steps.
Leave the mattress for about four hours to dry. Steam cleaning a mattress does not leave behind water, but it's possible there's still a bit of moisture left deep inside from the initial spill. It's best if your mattress can dry in a warm spot out in the sun.
Water Stains
If you spill water on your mattress and don't clean it up right away, light yellow-beige stains may form. These stains don't smell, but they can eventually lead to mold and create more yellow stains.
It's in the science
There are two things that urine will do to a mattress if left unattended. Within 24 hours the mattress will start to smell like the inside of a men's public toilet and be warned, once that urinal smell sets in, it's almost impossible to remove.
WILL VANISH REMOVE STAINS FROM A MATTRESS? Vanish can remove stains from a mattress - just treat it with Gold Oxi Action 3in1 Stain Removal Spray. For step-by-step instructions, read our guide on how to clean bedding and mattresses.
Also, you can use an enzyme cleaner for a mattress that chemically breaks down stains and odors. Make the paste using salt and lemon juice. Apply the paste to the mattress stain and let it settle for almost 1 hour. Wipe off the paste using a clean towel.