How to Clean a Memory Foam Mattress?
It can be difficult to know how to clean a memory foam mattress, so we're here to help! Even if you've kept your mattress in perfect condition, you might feel like it needs freshening up a little bit. It's inevitable that your mattress will get dirty or you might spill something on it, so we're here to make sure you're prepared.
We suggest using a damp cloth to sponge out any stains, but the most important thing to remember is to first check the care guide to see what steps the manufacturer recommends. If you don't have a memory foam mattress, check out our general mattress cleaning guide.
Here are some tips and tricks on how to spot-clean your mattress to keep it clean and fresh.
8 tips for cleaning your memory foam mattress
Follow our 8 easy steps to remove any stains and freshen up your mattress. If you're unsure, check the care guide, contact the manufacturer or get in touch!
1. Check the care instructions
Not all memory foam mattresses have the same care instructions, so it's always best to consult the care booklet it came with as a first step. This is because the manufacturer will recommend the best cleaning method for your specific mattress.
2. Wash your mattress cover
If your memory foam mattress has a removable cover, it's good practice to make sure it's clean. Now, you may be thinking 'how do you clean a memory foam mattress cover?'. Don't worry - most removable covers are machine washable. However, if yours isn't, follow the steps below to spot-clean any stains.
3. Clean stains with laundry detergent and water
When cleaning stains on your memory foam mattress, don't get it too wet as this can ruin the foam filling inside. To avoid this, lightly spray lukewarm water onto the stain and gently dab it with a damp cloth.
Some manufacturers suggest using water mixed with gentle laundry detergent or dish soap, but check the manufacturers' care instructions first. This is because harsh chemicals can break down the memory foam inside.
4. Try not to let stains dry
If possible, try to tackle the stains when they're still wet as it's much easier to work with. Clean the mattress with a damp cloth and try to soak up as much moisture as possible. Afterwards, open your windows and let the mattress air-dry for as long as you can before putting your bedding back on.
5. Vacuum regularly
When you change your sheets, you should vacuum your mattress too. This is because it removes any dirt, dust, hair and dead skin cells which gives you a clean surface to put your new bedding onto. Also, this is really beneficial if you suffer from allergies.
6. Let your mattress air-dry
After cleaning your mattress, you should always try to let it air-dry. Air-drying will prevent it from being damp for a prolonged period of time. It's important to make sure it's completely dry before putting any bedding back on.
7. Sprinkle baking soda to keep it fresh
If you're looking to keep your mattress smelling clean and fresh, try sprinkling baking soda over the surface. Make sure you lightly cover the whole mattress and leave it for a few hours. Then, vacuum the remaining baking soda off your mattress and this will leave it odourless!
8. Wash sheets and bedding once a week
Regularly washing your bedding and sheets on a high heat helps kill bacteria and dust mites. This will keep your mattress clean and healthy for longer.
If you can, also tumble-dry your bedding at a high temperature to help to keep it smelling fresh.
Can I steam clean a memory foam mattress?
No, we don't recommend using a steam cleaner on your memory foam mattress. This is because the heat and moisture from the steam cleaner can damage the construction of your mattress and the integrity of the memory foam layer. Using a steam cleaner could also affect your mattress warranty.
If there's a tough stain you're trying to remove, try the steps above. Airing your mattress out and vacuuming it will keep it just as clean without damaging the foam comfort layer inside.
How do I clean my memory foam mattress topper?
To clean a memory foam mattress topper, lightly spot-clean stains with lukewarm soapy water and try to avoid any chemical cleaning methods. This will prevent the foam inside being damaged.
However, many memory foam toppers have a removable cover which can be machine washed. If your topper doesn't have one, check the care guide to see which cleaning methods the manufacturer suggests first.
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Can I wash my memory foam pillow?
You can't wash a memory foam pillow as it can damage the memory foam, which will reduce the support and comfort it will provide. Always check the care guide that came with your pillow as it might be possible to spot-clean any stains or dirt on it.
Many memory foam pillows come with a removable, machine washable cover. You can wash it whenever necessary for a clean feel.
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How to keep my memory foam mattress clean?
Now you've cleaned your memory foam mattress, here are some tips on how to keep it fresh and clean for longer:
1. Vacuum regularly
When you wash your bedding, gently vacuum the surface of your mattress to get rid of any hair or dirt.
2. Open your windows for ventilation
Open your bedroom windows and air out your mattress to eliminate any odours.
2. Wash bedding and cover regularly
Keeping your sheets and mattress cover clean will keep your mattress clean too!
4. Don't eat or drink in bed
Prevention is better than cure - stop any spills so you don't have to clean them.
5. Don't let pets on the bed
If you want to go the extra mile to keep your mattress clean, try to avoid letting your pets on the bed.
Consider a mattress protector
Mattress protectors are a great way to keep your mattress clean. A protector sits over the top of your mattress and acts as a barrier against any accidents.
If you're looking to invest in a memory foam mattress, you may want to consider a mattress protector as well. Protectors are often waterproof and machine washable, so they're a better option if keeping your mattress clean is your main concern.
Most mattress protectors can also be tumble-dried, so you don't need to worry about that either!
Memory foam mattress cleaning dos and don'ts
It can be hard to know how to clean memory foam mattress stains, so we've created this table to help you out.
| TOP 5 DOS | TOP 5 DON'TS |
|---|---|
| Check the care guide beforehand | Let stains dry |
| Spot-clean stains | Get it too wet |
| Dab stains with a damp cloth | Use chemicals |
| Vacuum regularly | Use harsh laundry detergent |
| Wash bedding regularly | Steam clean |
There you go - 8 tips for cleaning a memory foam mattress! You're now ready to tackle cleaning your mattress.
Always remember to consult your care guide, or get in touch if you have any more questions. If you'd like to know more about mattress cleaning, read our general guide on how to clean mattresses.
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If you’re interested in learning more about our memory foam products, we recommend reading the following pages:
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