How to Clean a Mattress: A Step-by-Step Guide for UK Households

Your mattress is where you spend nearly one-third of your life. Yet, it's also one of the most commonly overlooked items when it comes to regular home cleaning. A clean mattress not only improves sleep quality but also promotes better health by reducing allergens, bacteria, and dust mites.

Whether you're using a memory foam mattress or one with a topper, keeping it fresh and hygienic is essential—especially in the humid UK climate.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly how to clean a mattress, with step-by-step instructions and practical tips tailored for UK homes.

 

Why Clean Your Mattress Regularly?

 

Mattresses accumulate sweat, dead skin cells, pet hair, body oils, dust mites, and occasional spills over time. All of this can lead to unpleasant odors, stains, and even skin irritations. Using UK bedding essentials like mattress toppers and protectors helps reduce buildup, but regular deep cleaning is still necessary.

Especially in UK households—where dampness and humidity levels can be higher—cleaning your mattress is a proactive way to maintain sleep hygiene and extend its lifespan.

 

How Often Should You Clean a Mattress?

 

A good rule of thumb is to deep-clean your mattress every six months. However, if you suffer from allergies, own pets, or have children, consider cleaning it more frequently—around every three months. You should also clean it immediately if there's a spill, stain, or any noticeable odour.

 

Step-by-Step: How to Clean a Mattress

 

1. Strip the Bed Completely

 

Remove all bedding including sheets, pillowcases, duvet covers, and any mattress toppers. Wash them at a high temperature (check labels first) to eliminate dust mites and bacteria.

2. Vacuum the Entire Surface

 

Using a handheld vacuum or a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment, carefully go over the entire mattress surface. Focus on seams, edges, and tufted areas where debris accumulates most.

 

3. Spot Clean Any Stains

 

For small stains, mix a solution of mild detergent and cold water. Dab (don’t soak) the area with a clean cloth, working from the outside of the stain inward.

 

For tougher stains:

• Sweat or urine: Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water; lightly spray and blot.

• Blood stains: Apply hydrogen peroxide directly and dab carefully.

• Grease/oil: Baking soda and cornstarch paste can help absorb oil.

Always test any cleaner on a small hidden area first.

 

4. Deodorize with Baking Soda

 

Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda across the mattress. Let it sit for at least 4–6 hours, or ideally overnight. Baking soda helps absorb moisture and neutralize odours.

Afterward, vacuum the mattress thoroughly again to remove all residue.

 

5. Air It Out

 

Whenever possible, expose your mattress to natural sunlight and fresh air by placing it near a window or in a well-ventilated room. In the UK, where sun is not always guaranteed, a dehumidifier or heater fan can help dry and freshen the mattress.

 

How to Clean Different Mattress Types

 

Memory Foam Mattresses

 

• Avoid saturating with liquid.

• Spot clean only and air dry completely before using.

Spring Mattresses

 

• Clean thoroughly using vacuum and gentle stain removal.

• You can flip spring mattresses (unless labeled single-sided).

Hybrid & Gel Mattresses

 

• These require extra care—always follow manufacturer guidelines.

• Use a mattress protector to prevent damage during cleaning.

 

If you’re using a mattress topper, clean it separately according to its material (foam, fiberfill, down, etc.). Most UK mattress toppers can be machine-washed or aired out regularly.

 

Tips to Keep Your Mattress Cleaner for Longer

 

• Use a breathable mattress protector to shield from spills and sweat.

• Wash bedding—including UK bedding sets—weekly.

• Rotate your mattress every 3–6 months to ensure even wear.

• Vacuum the mattress surface monthly.

• Avoid eating or drinking in bed to minimize risk of spills and stains.

 

When to Replace Your Mattress

 

Even the best mattresses don’t last forever. If your mattress sags, gives you back pain, or still smells and feels unpleasant even after cleaning, it might be time to consider a replacement.

On average:

• Memory foam mattresses last around 7–10 years

• Hybrid mattresses around 6–8 years

• Spring mattresses around 5–7 years

If your sleep is suffering, don’t wait—your health and rest matter.

Why Choose Newentor for Your Mattress Needs

 

At Newentor, we believe in high-quality sleep solutions for modern UK households. Our memory foam mattresses are:

• Hypoallergenic, easy to clean, and breathable

• Designed with removable, washable covers

• Ideal for pairing with our plush, washable UK mattress toppers

• Durable enough to last—and support your back night after night

 

Conclusion: Clean Mattress, Better Sleep

 

Learning how to clean a mattress isn’t complicated—it just takes a bit of time and care. A fresh mattress can improve your mood, reduce allergies, and help you sleep deeper and healthier.

 

👉 Ready to upgrade your bedroom comfort? Browse Newentor’s selection of high-quality mattresses and UK bedding accessories and bring home better sleep today.