Say goodbye to stains and odors.
Getty Images
We can bet that you probably (or hopefully)clean your sheetspretty often.
But have you ever thought to clean whats underneath those sheets?

Credit:Getty Images
Beyond discomfort and potential allergic reactions, a dirty mattress can also affect the quality of your sleep itself.
So, cleaning a mattress is risky business.
If you dont already have a mattress protector, you should go get one to avoid any accidents.
If you do have to clean your mattress, Schultz suggests spot-cleaning it only.
And always confirm the mattress is completely dry before dressing your bed to avoid mold growth.
Its probably a good idea to test a small area before cleaning.
And remember, safety firstensure proper ventilation and use gloves if you’re dealing with potent cleaners.
Or, Stein recommends grabbing a bed/mattress vacuum that is made specifically for the mattress.
Step 2: Treating stains with a homemade solution or commercial stain remover.
Gently dab the solution onto the stain, avoiding excessive soaking, suggests Stein.
Step 3: Sprinkling baking soda on the mattress to absorb odors and moisture.
Generously sprinkle baking soda over the entire mattress and let it sit for at least 15 minutes.
Baking soda naturally neutralizes odors and absorbs any moisture.
Step 4: Vacuuming the mattress again to remove the baking soda residue.
That being said, if you absolutely must deep clean your mattress, Stein gives the rundown below.
Step 1: Removing bedding and protectors.
Strip off all bedding and mattress protectors to be washed.
Your protector will typically be able to be washed or steam cleaned, explains Stein.
Ensure to do so according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Step 2: Spot cleaning any visible stains with a mild detergent or enzyme cleaner.
See above for more details.
Step 3: Using a steam cleaner or upholstery cleaner to deep clean the mattress.
Step 4: Allowing the mattress to dry completely before vacuuming and putting bedding back.
Ensure your mattress is thoroughly dry before you vacuum it one last time.
As a general guideline, aim to deep clean your mattress at least twice a year, he suggests.
Additionally, any spills or stains should be addressed promptly to prevent them from becoming more challenging to remove.
Frequently Asked Questions
According to Stein, it’s best to avoid using bleach on your mattress.
Bleach can be too harsh and may damage the mattress fabric or leave behind harmful residues, she explains.
Additionally, bleach can be harmful to your skin and respiratory system if not used properly.
Stick to mild detergents or baking soda for safe and effective cleaning.
After deep cleaning, a mattress usually takes between 12 to 24 hours to dry completely.
Just double-check it’s fully dry before using it again to prevent mold and mildew.