How To Remove Stains From Mattresses

Let’s be honest - no one wants to deal with a stained mattress. It’s not just about how it looks; those stains can be a bit gross and not great for your health either. But don’t worry, you don’t need to spend a ton on professional cleaners or rush out to buy a new mattress. 

If you’ve been wondering how to remove stains from mattresses, it’s easier than you might think. Whether it’s coffee, urine, or blood, this guide has some straightforward tips to help you get your mattress looking fresh and clean again.

Why Do Mattresses Stain So Easily?

We spend about a third of our lives in bed, so it’s no surprise that not just the mattress, but all our bedding can quickly gather stains. Here are a few reasons why this happens:

• Porous Materials: The mattresses are formed from foam, fabric, and batting layers. These materials are not liquid-resistant. Therefore, once a liquid touches the surface, it creates a stain.
• Absorption Of Body Fluids: The bed is formed from porous material, therefore, it absorbs sweat, drool, and other bodily fluids. These fluids contain salts and oils that can discolour the material and create stubborn stains.
• Dead Skin Accumulation: During sleep, our dead skin peeled off. This skin is a mixture of sweat and other fluids which create stains and bad smells. 
• Spills: The accidental spills of beverages like coffee, wine, or juice are another common cause of stains.
• Oils And Lotions: Skin care products, body oils, and hair products can leave grease-like stains. These substances are tough to remove as they absorb deeply into the fabric.
  
  

Image By Cottonbro Studio From Pexels

Let’s dive into how to clean stains in a mattress. 

Different Stains & How to Get Stains Out Of Mattress​​​​es

Bedwetting Accidents

One of the most common issues is urine stains, especially in homes with children or pets. Here's how to remove them:

• Fresh Urine: Dry the area with paper towels to absorb liquid. Try not to scrub, as it pushes the liquid down. Mix the dish soap with cold water. Apply the solution to the area, then dry it with a clean cloth. Sprinkle baking soda to kill odours. Let it air dry.
• Dried Urine: Dried stains are tougher. Use an enzyme-based cleaner to remove the stain. Let it sit for 20 minutes, then vacuum the area using an upholstery attachment. Repeat the process if necessary.
  
  

 Image By Tatiana Syrikova From Pexels

Blood Stains

Blood stains can rapidly set into the mattress surface. Timing is everything:

• Fresh Blood: Wipe the stain using a clean cloth dampened with cold water; do not use hot water, as it can set the stain. Use a mild cleaning solution and gently blot until the stain is removed.
• Dried Blood: Use baking soda with cold water to make a paste. Apply the mixture to the stain and allow it to sit for 20 minutes, then use a damp cloth to wipe it off. After that, vacuum the mattress.

Vomit Stains

Vomit stains contain acids and smell. You can remove them by following the steps:

• Wipe off any solid substance with paper towels.
• Dissolve a solution by combining dish soap and cold water.
• Spot-clean the stained area with the solution, sprinkle baking soda to absorb moisture and smell, and let it stay for 20 minutes before vacuuming.
  
  

Coffee Stains

Spilled coffee will leave annoying marks and smells.

• Blot the stain with a clean cloth.
• Mix cold water with dish soap and dab gently.
• Sprinkle baking soda to absorb the remaining moisture and odour, then vacuum.
  
  

Wine Stains

Wine stains are slippery but can be dealt with:

• Blot immediately with a paper towel, removing as much of the liquid as possible.
• Dab gently with a solution of cold water and dish soap.
• Sprinkle baking soda over the stain, let it dry, and vacuum up thoroughly.
  
  

Nail Polish Stains

Accidental spills of nail polish require a quick response:

• Soak a cotton ball in pure acetone to blot the stain carefully. Make sure to use pure acetone, not regular nail polish remover, as it may contain chemicals that could damage fabrics or worsen stains.
  For a more eco-friendly option, try non-toxic alternatives like rubbing alcohol or other natural cleaners that are safer for you and the environment.
  
• Rinse with a damp cloth to remove residue.
  
  

Oil Stains

Oils from food or bodily fluids can penetrate deep and cause stains.

• Sprinkle baking soda on the stain and let it sit for 20 minutes to absorb grease.
• Vacuum the area thoroughly and repeat the process.
  
  

Yellow Stains

How do you get yellow stains out of mattresses? These marks are often caused by sweat, dead skin, or urine. Here’s a simple and effective way to tackle them:

• Mix a solution of cold water, dish soap, and a little hydrogen peroxide.
• Press the solution on the stain with a clean cloth.
• Sprinkle baking soda for 20 minutes, and vacuum.
  
  

We’re sure you’re now familiar with how to tackle those pesky bed stains. But let’s be honest, some of these methods can be a bit time-consuming. If you’re dealing with a particularly stubborn stain or simply don’t have the time to handle it yourself, why not consider a mattress deep cleaning service? 

We highly recommend Be Mitley Clean in Singapore. With just one click, you can sit back and relax, knowing your mattress will be spotless in no time.

Now, let's take a proactive approach and protect your bed from stains, so you can rest easy without worrying about them again. Check out the tips below.

How To Protect A Mattress From Staining

Maintaining a stain-free bed isn’t just about comfort and cleanliness; it’s a savvy way to protect your investment. By keeping it in good condition, you’ll save money over time, avoiding the need for expensive replacements and ensuring your bed serves you for many more years to come.

• Use A Waterproof Mattress Protector: A good waterproof protector acts like a shield between your bed and spillages, body fluids, or dirt. It can be easily removed and cleaned out, thus offering an easy way to minimise staining. 
  
  

Featuring Weavve’s TENCEL™ Lyocell Mattress Protector

At Weavve, we offer a fitted-style bed protector that’s as easy to use as a fitted sheet - simply slip it on in a few minutes, and when it’s time for a wash, it’s just as effortless. This quick and simple cover is the perfect way to protect your bed without any hassle.

With TENCEL™ Lyocell Mattress Protectors, it provides cooling comfort, making your bed even more inviting. The soft, whisper-quiet surface ensures no crinkling sounds as you sleep, and its hypoallergenic properties make it an ideal choice for sensitive skin.

• Rotate Your Mattress: Regularly rotating can help you to distribute wear and tear, preventing permanent indentations or damage. This can reduce the chances of stains accumulating in high-use areas.
• Keep Foods And Liquids Off: Limit your consumption of food and liquids while in bed to prevent spills. If that's impossible, be sure to use a good bed cover to protect your investment from any accidental spills or stains.
• Vacuum Frequently: Dust, dry skin, and various small particles may cause discoloration. Frequent vacuuming with an upholstery attachment keeps the top layer clean.

In short, if you want to keep your bed in top condition for years, don’t underestimate the value of a mattress protector. It’s the most effective way to protect your bed from stains, spills, and moisture, ensuring the benefits of a bed cover. If you’re wondering how many protectors you need, having two is a sensible choice - one for use and another as a backup, just in case.

How Do I Know My Mattress Has Mould?

Mould found in a bed is dangerous as it triggers allergies and respiratory disease; thus, spotting it early can protect your well-being. Here's how to identify it:

• Discolouration: Black, green, or yellow spots with a fuzzy texture are mainly seen on the seams and underside.
• Musty Odour: A persistent, damp smell is a sign of mould, which grows strong and intensifies as it increases with the presence.
• Allergic Reactions: Unexplained sneezing, coughing, or itchy eyes in bed may indicate mould spores.
• Dampness: Mould thrives in moist areas, so check for dampness or signs of water damage.
• Night Sensitivity: Worsened symptoms like wheezing or difficulty breathing at night suggest airborne mould spores.

Spotting these signs early can help you address mould and maintain a healthier sleeping environment.

What To Do If You Suspect Mould?

• Inspect Thoroughly: Examine every part of the bed, especially areas near spills or where moisture may seep in.
• Air The Mattress: Stretch it out in a well-ventilated area under direct sunlight to prevent mould and mildew growth.
• Clean With A Solution: Use a rubbing alcohol solution with water to clean the mouldy areas. When it's severe, clean professionally.

If mould is widespread, it may be advisable to replace your mattress for health's sake.

Prevention

• Use a waterproof mattress protector to lock out moisture.
• Make sure that the bedroom allows excellent ventilation.
• Regularly rotate and allow your couch some air.
• Avoid placing mattresses directly on the floor, as this may trap moisture.
  
  

Featuring Weavve’s TENCEL™ Lyocell Mattress Protector

By taking proactive steps, it will be easy to minimise the risk of mould developing and to maintain an effective, clean sleeping environment.

What Happens When You Don't Clean Your Mattress?

Disregarding mattress care has resulted in several ways:

• Health Issues: With time, dead skin, dust mites, and bacteria cause allergies and respiratory problems.
• Shortened Lifespan: Stains and lack of care reduce the quality of the material, which shortens the life of the bed.
• Bad Smell: Bodily fluids or spills often create an unforgiving odour that is tough to remove.

Regular mattress cleaning process and maintenance keep it hygienic and a comfortable sleeping area.