How to Clean a Mattress with Baking Soda

Why Baking Soda is Ideal for Cleanin

Before diving into the step-by-step process, let’s first understand why baking soda is such an ideal cleaning agent for mattresses. This white powder, scientifically known as sodium bicarbonate, has unique properties that make it effective for various cleaning tasks, especially when it comes to mattresses. Here are the key reasons why baking soda is a must-have in your mattress care routine:/p>

1. Cleaning Mild Stains

Baking soda acts as an alkali, which means it interacts with acids in stains to break them down, making them much easier to wipe off. This is why it’s highly effective at handling minor stains caused by sweat, spills, or body oils. While it may not be powerful enough to remove deep-set stains, it certainly works wonders on lighter marks.

2. Moisture Absorption

One of baking soda’s most remarkable features is its hygroscopic nature, meaning it has a strong affinity for moisture. When applied to a mattress, it can absorb excess moisture from sweat, spills, or humidity. Keeping the mattress dry is essential not only for comfort but also for preventing mould growth, which can damage the mattress and cause health issues like respiratory problems.

3. Deodorising

Baking soda’s deodorising properties come from its ability to neutralise acids. It works by chemically altering the composition of the molecules responsible for bad odours, turning them into harmless salts. This means it doesn’t just mask the smells; it effectively removes them, leaving your mattress smelling fresh and clean.

4. Disinfection

Baking soda has mild disinfecting properties. It helps to eliminate bacteria and germs that can accumulate on the surface of your mattress over time. The high pH of baking soda creates an environment where many microbes cannot survive, making it an excellent natural disinfectant.

How to: Get Blood Out of a Mattress

Step 1: Prepare Your Cleaning Supplies

Start by gathering everything you’ll need before you begin cleaning. You’ll require a spray bottle filled with clean water, a vacuum cleaner (preferably with an upholstery attachment), and a box of baking soda. While baking soda is a great solution for routine cleaning, you may need additional cleaning products for tougher stains. Always check your mattress care guide to avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage the fabric. For an added fresh scent, you can include a few drops of your favourite essential oils.

Step 2: Get the Mattress Ready for Cleaning

Before you begin cleaning, remove all sheets, pillows, and covers from the mattress. You can use this time to wash them while you focus on cleaning the mattress. You don’t need to remove the mattress from the bed frame to clean it, but make sure it’s fully exposed for effective treatment.

Step 3: Vacuum Your Mattress Thoroughly

Once the mattress is clear, vacuum it thoroughly to remove any dust, dirt, or debris that might have settled into the fibres. Vacuuming helps improve the effectiveness of baking soda by allowing it to reach the surface more easily. Make sure to vacuum every part of the mattress, including the edges and seams, where dust and allergens can accumulate.

Step 4: Apply Baking Soda to the Mattress

To start the cleaning process, lightly mist the surface of the mattress with water from the spray bottle. This helps the baking soda stick more effectively. Next, sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda evenly across the mattress, ensuring that the entire surface is covered. You can even add a few drops of essential oils to the water in the spray bottle for a pleasant, fresh scent. Allow the baking soda to sit for at least 30 minutes to 2 hours. During this time, it will absorb moisture, neutralise odours, and break down mild stains.

Learn more: How to Get Hair Dye Out of Carpet

Step 5: Vacuum Away the Baking Soda

Once the baking soda has had time to sit, it’s time to vacuum it up. Use your vacuum cleaner to remove all of the baking soda from the mattress. Be sure to go over the entire surface again, including the edges and corners, to ensure no powder remains. If you notice any stains or odours that remain, you can use additional cleaning methods, such as mild dish soap, hydrogen peroxide, or a specialised stain remover.

Step 6: Let the Mattress Air Out

After vacuuming up the baking soda, it’s important to let your mattress air out. If possible, open the windows and allow natural sunlight to shine on the mattress. This will help further disinfect the surface and ensure that any remaining moisture evaporates. Fresh air will also enhance the overall freshness of your mattress.

Learn more: How To Get a Blood Stain Out of Fabric

How Often Should You Use Baking Soda to Clean Your Mattress?

Cleaning your mattress with baking soda every 3 to 6 months is generally recommended. However, factors like your activity level, whether you sweat a lot at night, or if you have pets, may require more frequent cleaning. If you suffer from allergies, consider cleaning your mattress more often to reduce allergens and improve your sleep environment. Additionally, cleaning your mattress whenever you rotate or flip it ensures that you maintain an even level of cleanliness.

Concluding Thoughts on Mattress Cleaning with Baking Soda

By following these simple steps, you can keep your mattress clean, fresh, and free from unpleasant odours. Baking soda is an effective, natural cleaner that deodorises, absorbs moisture, and disinfects your mattress. While it works great for routine maintenance, tougher stains and deeper cleaning might require additional products or professional assistance.

If you’re looking for a more thorough cleaning solution, our mattress cleaning service in London is here to help. We use the latest methods to ensure your mattress receives a deep clean, disinfected thoroughly and refreshed, so you can enjoy a healthier and more comfortable sleep.