By Taylah Nally · Updated 20 June 2026
We spend roughly a third of our lives on our mattress — and in that time it quietly collects sweat, skin cells, dust, and the odd spill. A clean mattress isn't just about freshness; it helps you sleep better, keeps allergens down, and adds years to one of the most important purchases in your home. The good news is you don't need anything fancy. Here's exactly how to clean a mattress, step by step, with what's almost certainly already in your cupboard.
Why bother cleaning your mattress?
Three reasons make it worth the half hour. First, hygiene: your mattress absorbs perspiration, body oils and dead skin, which in turn feed dust mites — a common trigger for allergies and disrupted sleep. Second, longevity: grime and moisture break down comfort layers over time, so a cared-for mattress simply lasts longer. Third, your warranty: many manufacturers expect reasonable care and a mattress protector, and a stained mattress can void a claim.
How often should you clean it?
Think of mattress care as layered — quick jobs often, a deep clean a couple of times a year.
| Task | How often |
|---|---|
| Wash sheets and pillowcases | Weekly |
| Vacuum the mattress surface | Monthly |
| Rotate (and flip, if double-sided) | Every 3 months |
| Full deodorise and deep clean | Every 6 months |
| Spot-clean spills | Immediately |
What you'll need
- A vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment
- Bicarbonate of soda (bicarb)
- A few clean, dry cloths and a spray bottle
- Mild dish soap or an enzyme-based cleaner for stains
- Cold water (warm water sets protein stains like blood and sweat)
That's it. Skip harsh bleaches and avoid soaking the mattress — particularly memory foam and latex, which don't like getting wet.
Step by step: how to deep clean a mattress
- Strip the bed and wash everything. Remove all bedding — sheets, protector, mattress topper if you use one — and wash it on the hottest setting the care label allows.
- Vacuum the whole surface. Using the upholstery attachment, vacuum the top and sides, paying attention to seams and crevices. This removes the bulk of allergens.
- Spot-treat any stains. Blot — never rub — with a cloth dampened in cold water and a little mild detergent, working from the outside of the stain inwards.
- Deodorise with bicarb. Sift a generous, even layer across the entire mattress. Leave it to work for at least a few hours — overnight is even better.
- Vacuum again. Once the bicarb has done its job, vacuum it all up. The surface will look and smell noticeably fresher.
- Air it out. Open the windows and let the mattress breathe. In our Queensland climate, an airy, sunlit room makes quick work of any lingering damp.
- Rotate it. While the bed is bare, rotate the mattress 180° head-to-toe so it wears evenly — every three months prevents body impressions.
Stuck on a specific mark? See our step-by-step guides to getting urine out of a mattress and removing blood, sweat and other stains without damaging the surface.
Disinfecting and dust mites
Routine cleaning handles most hygiene, but if you're tackling allergies, illness or mustiness you may want to go a step further with steaming or a fabric-safe sanitiser. For the full method — and what's safe on foam — see our guide on how to disinfect a mattress. If allergies are the real concern, our piece on hypoallergenic mattresses and allergies is a good next read, and if you suspect an infestation, here's how to get rid of bed bugs.
Protect it from now on
A good waterproof mattress protector shields against spills, sweat and dust mites, washes easily, and is far cheaper than replacing a stained mattress. It's the single best habit for extending your mattress's life.
Shield your mattress
Our breathable, waterproof protectors keep spills and sweat out while letting your mattress breathe — the simplest way to keep it fresh for years.
Shop mattress protectorsWhen a clean isn't enough
Sometimes a mattress is simply past its best, and no amount of cleaning will bring back support. It may be time to replace yours if you notice persistent sagging, you wake up stiff or sore, the mattress holds odours despite cleaning, or it's more than 7–10 years old. Our guide on how long a mattress lasts and when to replace it will help you decide.
Ready for a fresh start?
Explore our full range of pocket spring, memory foam and mattress-in-a-box options — with showrooms across Brisbane and the Gold Coast where you can try before you buy.
Shop mattresses on saleFrequently asked questions
How do I clean a mattress without a vacuum?
Use a stiff brush to loosen surface debris, then lift it with a lint roller or sticky tape. Bicarb still works for odours — sprinkle, leave for a few hours, then brush and wipe it away with a barely-damp cloth.
Can I clean a memory foam mattress the same way?
Mostly, yes — but go gentler with moisture. Memory foam and latex should never be soaked. Spot-clean with a barely-damp cloth, deodorise with bicarb, and allow plenty of drying time before re-making the bed.
How do I get rid of mattress odours?
Bicarbonate of soda is your best friend. A thick layer left for several hours or overnight absorbs most smells. Airing the mattress in a sunlit, well-ventilated room helps too.
How often should I replace my mattress?
As a general rule, every 7–10 years — sooner if it sags, holds odours, or you're no longer waking up rested. Good care and a protector help you reach the upper end of that range.