Can You Use Upholstery Cleaner On A Mattress?

Yes, you can use spray upholstery cleaner on your mattress, but it should be done with caution. Spray upholstery cleaners can be effective in removing tough stains, but they may contain harsh chemicals that could potentially damage certain materials, particularly memory foam mattresses. Mechanical upholstery cleaners, or steam cleaners, are not recommended for mattresses due to the risk of introducing too much water and heat, which can lead to mold and damage the mattress materials. Alternative cleaning methods, like regular vacuuming, spot cleaning with mild detergent, and airing out the mattress in the sun, can also help maintain the cleanliness and longevity of your mattress.

A good night’s sleep is the foundation of our overall well-being, and for the best sleep, a clean and comfortable mattress is essential. However, keeping a mattress clean and fresh can be quite challenging, especially when it comes to dealing with stubborn stains and unpleasant odors. When faced with these issues, many people wonder if they can use upholstery cleaner on their mattresses.

In this comprehensive cleaning guide, we will explore the efficacy and potential risks of using upholstery cleaner and carpet cleaners on your mattress, delve into the world of mattress cleaning, and discuss alternative cleaning methods and solutions to keep your bed fresh and clean.

Table of Contents

Understanding Upholstery and Carpet Cleaners

Upholstery cleaners and carpet cleaners are specially formulated cleaning solutions designed to deep clean and remove dirt, stains, and odors from fabric-covered furniture and carpets. They come in two primary types:

Spray upholstery cleaning solution:

These cleaning solutions come in a spray bottle and are used to spot clean stains on upholstery and carpets. They often contain harsh chemicals that help break down and remove stubborn dirt and stains.

Mechanical upholstery and carpet cleaners:

Also known as steam cleaners, these are machines that inject a cleaning solution and water into the upholstery or carpet and then extract the dirty water out.

Read also: Can you use a carpet cleaner on a mattress?

Can you use upholstery cleaner on a mattress?
Can you use upholstery cleaner on a mattress?

Using Spray Upholstery Cleaner Solutions on Your Mattress

Pros and Cons

Spray upholstery cleaners, often used as spot cleaners, can be a handy tool in your cleaning arsenal. They are especially effective on stubborn stains, including pet stains and urine stains on your mattress. These cleaners work well on most mattress types, particularly the traditional inner spring mattress.

However, spray upholstery cleaners can contain harsh chemicals that may damage certain materials, such as memory foam. Therefore, using these cleaners on memory foam mattresses must be done with caution.

The Cleaning Process

If you decide to use a spray upholstery cleaner or a carpet cleaner on your mattress, here’s the cleaning process:

  1. Test the Cleaner: Before applying the cleaner to the entire mattress, test it on a small, hidden spot to ensure it does not discolor or damage the fabric.
  2. Apply the Cleaner: Spray the cleaner directly onto the stained area and use a clean cloth or towel to gently blot the stain, working from the outside in. Avoid rubbing or scrubbing, which can push the stain deeper into the mattress.
  3. Rinse and Dry: After treating the stain, use a damp cloth to remove any residue from the cleaning solution. Then, allow the mattress to air dry completely before putting on fresh sheets.

Precautions to Take

If you decide to use a spray upholstery cleaner or a carpet cleaner on your mattress, there are a few precautions to remember:

  • Avoid Oversaturating Your Mattress: Too much liquid can seep deep into the mattress and cause issues down the line.
  • Ensure Proper Ventilation: This not only helps the mattress dry faster but also prevents the buildup of strong chemical odors.
  • Allow Your Mattress to Dry Fully: This helps prevent mold and bacterial growth, which can occur in damp environments.

The Risks of Using Mechanical Upholstery Cleaners on a Mattress

Mechanical upholstery cleaners, or steam cleaners, are powerful tools for deep cleaning carpets, but they may not be the best choice for your mattress. These machines introduce a significant amount of water into the mattress, which can make it difficult to dry completely, potentially leading to mold and bacterial growth.

Using a steam cleaner on memory foam mattresses is particularly risky. The hot water and steam can cause the foam to lose its shape and supportive properties, shortening the lifespan of your mattress.

Pros and Cons

Despite their risks, mechanical upholstery cleaners do have their benefits. They provide a deep clean for your mattress, effectively removing dust, dirt, and allergens trapped in the fabric. These machines are also efficient for cleaning large areas.

However, the primary drawbacks of mechanical cleaners are the potential to over-wet the mattress and damage certain materials, such as memory foam, with their hot water and steam.

Precautions to Take

If you decide to use a mechanical upholstery cleaner on your mattress, remember to:

  • Never Use It On Memory Foam: The water and heat from the machine can damage memory foam.
  • Ensure Complete Drying After Cleaning: This prevents mold and bacterial growth.

Alternative Mattress Cleaning Methods

If using upholstery cleaner or carpet cleaner on your mattress isn’t advisable or suitable for your mattress type, consider these alternative cleaning methods:

Vacuuming:

Regularly vacuuming your mattress can help remove dust, dirt, and allergens. Use the upholstery tool on your vacuum cleaner to gently clean the surface of the mattress.

Spot Cleaning with Mild Detergent:

To treat stains, mix a small amount of mild detergent with warm water. Dip a clean cloth into the solution and gently dab the stained area, being careful not to oversaturate the mattress.

Baking Soda:

Baking soda is a natural deodorizer that can help neutralize odors and absorb moisture. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda on your mattress, let it sit for a few hours, and then vacuum it up. This is a great solution if you have a memory foam mattress as it doesn’t involve any water or heat.

Sunlight and Fresh Air:

Exposing your mattress to sunlight and fresh air can help kill bacteria, reduce odors, and dry out any lingering moisture. On a sunny day, remove your bedding and open your windows, or take your mattress outside to air out.

Maintaining a Clean Mattress: Tips and Recommendations

Invest in a Mattress Protector:

A waterproof mattress protector can help prevent stains and odors from reaching your mattress in the first place. It’s much easier to clean a mattress protector than a mattress!

Regular Cleaning:

Regularly vacuum your mattress to remove dust, dirt, dead skin cells, and potential bed bugs and dust mites.

Professional Cleaning Services:

For deeply ingrained dirt or stubborn stains, consider hiring a professional cleaning service. They have the right tools and expertise to give your mattress a deep clean.

Change Bedding Regularly:

Regularly changing and washing your bedding can help keep your mattress fresh and clean.

Air It Out:

If possible, take your mattress outside a few times a year to air out in the sun. The sunlight helps kill bacteria and freshens up your mattress, which is particularly useful to counteract pet odor.

By following these tips and the cleaning process we’ve laid out, you can keep your mattress clean, fresh, and free of odors, helping you get the best night’s sleep possible. So, while you can use an upholstery cleaner on your mattress, it’s essential to take the right precautions and use the right tools to avoid damaging your mattress.

Conclusion: Can You Use Upholstery Cleaner On A Mattress?

While spray upholstery cleaning solutions can be used cautiously on a dirty mattress to remove tough stains, mechanical upholstery cleaners are not recommended due to the risks of introducing too much water and heat into the mattress. Instead, consider alternative cleaning methods such as vacuuming, spot cleaning with mild detergent, and airing out your mattress in the sun. By keeping your mattress clean and well-maintained, you can ensure a comfortable and healthy sleeping environment for years to come.