Easy Memory Foam Mattress Cleaning Guide

A memory foam mattress is designed to contour to your body, offering unmatched comfort and personalized support throughout the night. Thanks to its body-conforming properties, breathability, and hypoallergenic materials, it’s no wonder memory foam has become a popular choice for people seeking better sleep quality. And since these mattresses are often considered a long-term investment, it’s important to take proper care of them to ensure they last for years.

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One of the most common concerns among memory foam mattress owners is knowing how to clean and maintain them without damaging their structure or effectiveness. The good news? You don’t need to toss your mattress at the first sign of a spill or stain.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through step-by-step cleaning methods to help you remove dirt, eliminate odors, and keep your mattress feeling and looking fresh. We’ll also address frequently asked questions so you can confidently care for your mattress and extend its life—whether it’s a high-end model or one of the most budget-friendly options out there. Cleaning your memory foam mattress doesn’t have to be intimidating—with the right tips, it’s easy and effective.

Cleaning a Memory Foam Mattress

The first step in cleaning your memory foam mattress is to determine whether it comes with a removable cover. Most modern memory foam mattresses are equipped with a protective outer cover, which not only helps keep dust and debris out but also makes routine cleaning much easier.

If your mattress does have a removable cover, unzip it and remove it carefully. Before you toss it into the washer, take a moment to read the care label or refer to the manufacturer’s instructions. This ensures you’re following the correct procedure and won’t damage the material.

In many cases, machine washing is perfectly safe—but always opt for a gentle cycle with cold water and use a mild detergent. Avoid bleach or harsh chemicals, as these can wear out the fabric or irritate sensitive skin. Once cleaned, air dry the cover or tumble dry on low heat if the label permits.

While cleaning the cover is fairly straightforward, keep in mind that cleaning the memory foam itself requires a more delicate approach, which we’ll cover in the next steps.

Be sure to check the care label or the product’s instruction manual before washing the mattress cover. This tag provides important cleaning instructions specific to the materials used. In most cases, the cover is machine washable, but to avoid any damage, it’s best to use a gentle cycle with cold or lukewarm water. Always choose a mild detergent and skip the bleach or fabric softeners, as these can wear down the fibers. Once washed, air drying is typically recommended, unless the tag explicitly allows low-heat tumble drying. Taking the time to follow these steps helps preserve the integrity and lifespan of your mattress cover.

How Often Should You Clean a Memory Foam Mattress?

While there’s no strict rule, cleaning your memory foam mattress every 3 to 6 months is a good practice to keep it fresh and hygienic. However, you should always act immediately if there’s a spill or a big stain—the faster you respond, the easier it is to prevent permanent damage or odor.

If you have pets, kids, or allergies, you might want to clean it more frequently due to the higher risk of accidents, allergens, or buildup. Also, make it a habit to vacuum the mattress every time you change your sheets—this helps eliminate dust, dead skin cells, and debris that can accumulate over time.

Now that the maintenance schedule is clear, let’s dive into how to properly clean your memory foam mattress step by step!

Step 1: Start with a Vacuum

Begin your cleaning process by thoroughly vacuuming the memory foam mattress. This essential step helps remove dust, hair, dead skin cells, pet dander, and other debris that accumulates over time. Even the natural skin oils from your body can seep into the surface, making regular vacuuming a must for hygiene and freshness.

Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment for the best results, or opt for a lightweight handheld vacuum for more convenience—something like the BLACK+DECKER CHV1410L, which is cordless, compact, and powerful enough to handle mattress cleaning with ease.

If you’re already changing your sheets, take a minute to vacuum your mattress too. And if you see a stain, don’t apply a cleaner just yet—vacuum first. This clears the surface and allows your cleaning solution to work more effectively on the stain without interference from loose debris.

Step 2: It’s Stain-Cleaning Time!

Accidents happen—maybe someone spilled juice, or your child jumped on the bed with muddy feet. Whatever the cause, the key to removing stains from your memory foam mattress is acting quickly. The longer you wait, the deeper the stain can sink into the foam, making it harder to remove.

Before you grab just any household cleaner, keep in mind that harsh chemicals can damage your mattress. It’s best to go for something gentle and natural like Biokleen Bac-Out Fresh, which is safe for memory foam and still highly effective.

Here’s how to mix and use your own safe stain-cleaning spray:

Grab a clean, empty spray bottle.
Add ½ cup of Biokleen (or another safe, enzyme-based cleaner).
Pour in 1 cup of water.
Shake well to mix.

Lightly spray the stained area—don’t oversaturate, as memory foam takes time to dry. Then take a clean, dry cloth and gently scrub the spot in circular motions. You don’t need to scrub aggressively; let the cleaner do most of the work.

Extra Tip:
If you need a quick DIY alternative, mix 75% water and 25% white vinegar in a spray bottle. This can work wonders for stubborn stains, especially when you don’t have a commercial cleaner on hand.

Be patient during this process. If one pass doesn’t fully remove the stain, you can repeat the cleaning after it dries.

Step 3: The Aftermath

After successfully removing the stain, your memory foam mattress may still have some leftover cleaning solution on the surface. Use a clean, dry cloth to gently blot and wipe away any excess moisture or cleaner. This step helps prevent residue buildup and ensures a smoother drying process.

Now comes the most important part: drying the mattress. Since memory foam is thick and absorbent, it takes time to dry completely. Here are two safe methods:

Sun-dry method: If possible, take your mattress outside and place it in a well-ventilated area with sunlight. Sunlight naturally helps disinfect and speed up the drying process.
Indoor method: If outdoor drying isn’t an option, use a hairdryer or fan on a low heat setting. Never apply high heat—it can damage the foam. Even a regular household fan placed nearby can help circulate air and reduce drying time.

Depending on the airflow and room temperature, natural drying can take up to 48 hours, so speeding it up is a smart move.

Once the mattress is dry, take it one step further with a refreshing boost:

Sprinkle a light layer of baking soda across the entire surface.
Let it sit for at least 30 minutes—it’ll absorb any lingering odors and moisture.
Finally, use your vacuum to clean off the baking soda thoroughly. Rotate the mattress if needed to ensure both sides are fresh.

And just like that, your memory foam mattress is clean, fresh, and ready for restful sleep again!

Removing Liquids from a Mattress

Spilling liquids on your memory foam mattress can feel like a disaster—but with quick action, you can prevent permanent stains and odors. The key is to act immediately to stop the liquid from soaking deeper into the foam.

Here’s how to handle it step by step:

Blot the area right away using a clean, dry towel or paper towels. Gently press to absorb as much of the liquid as possible—don’t rub, as this can push the liquid further into the foam.
Once you’ve soaked up as much as you can, sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the affected area. Let it sit for 8 to 10 hours, or overnight if possible. Baking soda will absorb moisture and neutralize odors.
Vacuum the baking soda thoroughly using a brush attachment to remove any residue from the surface.
If a stain or stickiness remains, you can lightly spray a mixture of white vinegar and water (1:3 ratio) on the area. Dab it with a clean cloth using gentle circular motions, then allow it to dry.
Finally, let the mattress air dry completely before putting sheets back on. You can speed up the drying process with a fan or hairdryer on low heat.

Following these steps will help ensure your mattress stays clean, fresh, and stain-free—even after an accidental spill.

Method 1: Hydrogen Peroxide-Based Cleaner for Liquid Stains

If you’ve just spilled a drink or any liquid on your memory foam mattress, it’s crucial to act fast. The sooner you address the spill, the better your chances of avoiding long-term stains or odors.

Step-by-step Instructions:

Blot the excess liquid immediately using paper towels or a clean absorbent cloth. Be careful not to rub or spread the liquid further into the foam.
Remove the mattress cover, if it’s removable. If the spill got onto the cover, treat it separately with stain remover, then wash it in cold water using a gentle cycle, following the care label instructions.
Prepare a homemade cleaner using common household items. In a bowl, mix:
- 10 oz of hydrogen peroxide
- 3 tablespoons of baking soda
- A few drops of dishwashing detergent
Mix gently until combined—expect a little foaming.
Pour the solution into a spray bottle and lightly spray the stained area. Don’t over-saturate—just mist enough to cover the stain.
Let it sit for 10–15 minutes to break down the stain and neutralize odors.
Dry the mattress:
- Ideally, place it outside in sunlight to dry naturally.
- If not possible, open windows or use a fan in a well-ventilated room.
- Avoid high heat from a hairdryer, as it may damage the foam.

This method is especially effective for removing organic stains, like juice, coffee, or even sweat. For added freshness, you can sprinkle a bit of baking soda over the area after it dries, leave it for 30 minutes, and vacuum it up.

Method 2: Vinegar to the Rescue

If you prefer a natural and chemical-free way to treat stains on your memory foam mattress, vinegar can be an effective solution. This method works well for a variety of liquid stains, including spills and even sweat.

Here’s how to do it:

Prepare your cleaning solution by mixing in a spray bottle:
- 50% white vinegar
- 50% water
(Note: The original instruction mistakenly listed baking soda in the mixture. Baking soda should not be mixed directly with vinegar in the bottle, as it will foam excessively. Instead, use it separately.)
Spray the vinegar solution directly onto the stained area. Apply enough to dampen the stain but avoid soaking the memory foam.
Let it sit for about 10–15 minutes to allow the vinegar to break down the stain and neutralize any odors.
Blot the area using paper towels or a clean cloth to remove excess moisture and residue.
Sprinkle baking soda generously over the damp area. This will help absorb remaining moisture and eliminate odors.
Allow the baking soda to sit for a few hours, or ideally overnight, to maximize freshness and dryness.
Vacuum the baking soda off the mattress using a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment.

This method is great for spot-cleaning and deodorizing, and it’s safe, eco-friendly, and budget-friendly, too.

Extra Tips for Caring for Your Mattress

Taking proper care of your mattress is key to maintaining its comfort, support, and long-term durability. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your memory foam mattress stays in excellent condition:

Use a supportive base: Whether it’s a box spring or a solid slatted frame, always place your mattress on a strong and stable foundation. This prevents sagging and promotes even wear.
Let it air out regularly: Occasionally exposing your mattress to natural sunlight helps eliminate moisture and reduce odor. If you can’t move it outside, simply open the windows and let the light in.
Avoid harsh cleaning products: Strong chemical cleaners can degrade the foam and reduce its effectiveness. Stick to gentle, natural cleaning solutions designed for delicate materials.
Use a waterproof protector: A mattress protector is an easy and effective way to keep spills, sweat, and stains from penetrating into the foam, especially in households with children or pets.
Do not steam or soak: Steam cleaning or soaking memory foam can lead to mold and mildew. Instead, spot clean with mild solutions and allow it to dry completely before use.
Follow the care instructions: Always read the manufacturer’s care guide to understand the best cleaning and maintenance practices for your specific mattress model.

Final Thoughts

A memory foam mattress is not only known for its comfort and support but also for being relatively easy to maintain. With the right approach, keeping it clean doesn’t have to be a challenge. Simple steps like regular vacuuming, using gentle cleaning solutions, and addressing stains promptly can go a long way in preserving the quality and lifespan of your mattress.

Now that you’ve learned how to clean memory foam mattresses step by step, you can confidently keep your sleeping surface fresh and hygienic. Just remember—consistency and care are key. Be thorough when cleaning and patient with drying times, and your mattress will reward you with many more nights of restful sleep.