How To Clean Your Mattress

Your mattress may be more than just a cozy place to rest—it could be a thriving ecosystem for bacteria. Research highlights a startling reality: over seven years, the bacterial population in the average mattress can skyrocket from 3 million to a staggering 16 million colony-forming units (CFUs) per square inch, a fivefold increase. As the average sleep is about eight hours per day, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, this unseen microbial buildup raises serious hygiene concerns.

A Growing Problem Under the Covers

Mattresses are among the most heavily used items in any home, yet they’re often neglected when it comes to cleaning. Unlike frequently replaced items like toothbrushes or kitchen sponges, mattresses can go years without proper maintenance, becoming a breeding ground for germs. A study conducted by Amerisleep tested mattresses of varying ages, from brand-new to seven years old, to measure bacterial accumulation. The findings were eye-opening: a mattress less than a year old hosts approximately 3 million CFUs per square inch, but by year seven, that number surges to 16 million. This exponential growth is fueled by daily exposure to heat, moisture, and organic material like dead skin cells, creating an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive.

The misconception that clean sheets equate to a clean bed exacerbates the issue. Bacteria can penetrate beyond the linens, embedding themselves deep within the mattress fibers. Older mattresses, especially those lacking modern antimicrobial technologies, are particularly vulnerable to this microbial invasion. Over time, this buildup can compromise the hygiene of your sleep environment, potentially affecting your health.

Why Mattress Hygiene Matters

The human body sheds millions of skin cells daily, many of which end up in your bed. Combined with sweat, body oils, and even microscopic dust mites, these create a nutrient-rich environment for bacteria. Without regular cleaning, mattresses become a petri dish for microbial growth. This is especially concerning for individuals with allergies, asthma, or compromised immune systems, as prolonged exposure to high bacterial levels may exacerbate health issues. Even for healthy individuals, sleeping on a contaminated surface can undermine the restorative quality of sleep.

The longevity of mattresses adds another layer to the problem. Many people keep their mattresses for a decade or longer, well beyond the recommended replacement period of 6 to 8 years. As mattresses age, their internal materials break down, creating more crevices and porous surfaces where bacteria can flourish. This makes routine maintenance and timely replacement critical for maintaining a healthy sleep environment.

How to Clean Your Mattress

Keeping your mattress clean is essential for maintaining a hygienic sleep environment and extending its lifespan. Regular cleaning can help reduce bacterial buildup, eliminate allergens, and keep your bed fresh. Here’s a step-by-step guide to effectively clean your mattress:

1. Strip the Bed: Remove all bedding, including sheets, pillowcases, mattress protectors, and blankets. Wash these in hot water (at least 140°F/60°C, if the fabric allows) to kill bacteria and dust mites. Dry on high heat to ensure thorough sanitization.
2. Vacuum the Surface: Use a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment to thoroughly clean the mattress surface. Focus on seams, edges, and crevices where dust, skin cells, and debris tend to accumulate. A HEPA-filter vacuum is ideal for trapping allergens effectively.
3. Spot-Clean Stains: Address stains promptly to prevent them from setting. Mix a mild solution of water and a gentle detergent (or equal parts water and white vinegar for tougher stains). Dab the stained area with a clean cloth or sponge, avoiding soaking the mattress, as excess moisture can promote mold growth. For organic stains like sweat or blood, a small amount of hydrogen peroxide (3% solution) can be effective—test in an inconspicuous area first.
4. Deodorize with Baking Soda: Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the entire mattress surface to neutralize odors and absorb moisture. Let it sit for at least 1–2 hours, or longer (up to 24 hours) for deeper deodorizing. Vacuum the baking soda thoroughly afterward to remove it along with trapped odors and particles.
5. Disinfect Naturally: For a chemical-free disinfecting option, lightly mist the mattress with a solution of equal parts water and rubbing alcohol in a spray bottle. This helps kill surface bacteria without saturating the mattress. Allow it to air dry completely. Alternatively, some mattresses can be exposed to direct sunlight for a few hours, as UV rays have natural antibacterial properties—check your mattress manufacturer’s guidelines first.
6. Air It Out: After cleaning, let the mattress breathe by leaving it uncovered in a well-ventilated room for several hours. This helps evaporate any residual moisture and keeps the mattress fresh. If possible, prop it up near an open window or use a fan to improve airflow.
7. Use a Mattress Protector: Once clean, cover your mattress with an antimicrobial or washable mattress protector . This washable barrier prevents sweat, spills, and skin cells from penetrating the mattress, making future cleaning easier and reducing bacterial buildup.
8. Replace Every 6–8 Years: No matter how well you maintain your mattress, bacterial levels increase over time. Replacing your mattress within the recommended timeframe ensures you’re not sleeping on a heavily contaminated surface.

Frequency and Tips:

• Monthly Maintenance: Vacuum and air out your mattress monthly to keep dust and allergens at bay.
• Deep Cleaning: Perform a full clean (steps 2–6) every 3–6 months, depending on usage and environmental factors like humidity.
• Check Manufacturer Guidelines: Some mattresses, like memory foam or those with specific treatments, may have unique care instructions to avoid damage.
• Act Fast on Spills: Blot spills immediately with a dry cloth to prevent moisture from seeping into the mattress, which can foster mold and bacteria.

By incorporating these cleaning steps into your routine, you can minimize the 16 million colony-forming units (CFUs) of bacteria that can accumulate in a seven-year-old mattress, as found in Amerisleep’s study. A clean mattress not only promotes better sleep but also supports your overall health by reducing exposure to germs and allergens.

Beyond Cleaning: Choosing the Right Mattress

When shopping for a new mattress, consider models designed with hygiene in mind. Many modern mattresses incorporate antimicrobial or hypoallergenic materials, such as treated foams or fabrics, to inhibit bacterial growth. Some also feature removable, washable covers for easier maintenance. Investing in a high-quality mattress with these features can significantly reduce the risk of bacterial buildup over time.

Additionally, your sleep environment plays a role in mattress hygiene. Keeping your bedroom well-ventilated, maintaining a moderate temperature, and using a dehumidifier in humid climates can help curb moisture, a key factor in bacterial proliferation. Regularly cleaning other bedroom surfaces, like headboards and bed frames, also prevents the spread of germs to your mattress.

A Wake-Up Call for Better Sleep Hygiene

The idea of millions of bacteria lurking in your mattress may be unsettling, but it’s a reminder of the importance of sleep hygiene. Your bed should be a sanctuary for rest, not a haven for germs. By incorporating regular cleaning habits, using protective barriers, and replacing your mattress every 6 to 8 years, you can create a safer and healthier sleep environment. As spring cleaning season prompts us to refresh our homes, let’s not overlook the place where we spend a third of our lives. A cleaner mattress means better sleep—and a healthier you.

For more information on maintaining a hygienic sleep environment, explore resources from sleep health organizations or consult with a certified sleep science professional. Your bed deserves as much attention as the rest of your home—because a good night’s sleep starts with a clean foundation.