How to Clean a Mattress with Bicarbonate of Soda
Sprinkle, wait, vacuum: the easiest way to clean a mattress. Bicarbonate of Soda draws out musty smells and moisture to leave it fresh.
Takes 10 minutes, plus at least 1 hour
What you’ll need
- 200 g Bicarbonate of Soda
- 10 drops 100% Pure Essential Oils (optional; Lavender is lovely here)
- A jar with a lid or a sieve
- Vacuum cleaner with an upholstery tool
Method
- Strip the bed and wash the bedding. Spot-clean any stains first with our Upholstery Spot Cleaner and let them dry.
- Put 200 g Bicarbonate of Soda in a jar, add 10 drops of 100% Pure Essential Oils if you like, close the lid and shake well to spread the scent.
- Sprinkle evenly over the mattress, through a sieve if you have one.
- Leave for at least an hour, or all day if you can. Open a window or let in sunlight.
- Vacuum thoroughly with the upholstery tool, going over the mattress twice.
Mattresses, mattress toppers, sofa cushions and other upholstery that smells musty or stale.
Most mattress smells come from sweat and body moisture, which are slightly acidic. Bicarbonate of Soda is mildly alkaline, so it neutralises those smells instead of just covering them.
The fine powder also absorbs moisture, and the longer it sits, the more it draws out.
The science: Sodium bicarbonate (PubChem, NIH) →
Wet stains: Treat and dry any stains first. Bicarbonate of Soda on a damp patch turns into a paste.
Your vacuum filter: Fine powder can clog filters. Empty the vacuum and tap out the filter afterwards.
Pets and Essential Oils: Leave the oils out if you have cats or a dog that sleeps on the bed.
Keep Bicarbonate of Soda sealed in a cool, dry place.
Mix the scented powder fresh each time.
Avoid breathing in the powder while sprinkling. Keep Essential Oils out of reach of children and pets.
B&M Pro-Tip 1:
Do it on a sunny day with the window open. Fresh air and daylight help dry out moisture while the Bicarbonate of Soda works.
B&M Pro-Tip 2:
Freshen the pet bed while you’re at it, with our Pet Bedding Freshener (no Essential Oils).
Quick questions
How often should I clean my mattress?
Every 3–6 months, or whenever you turn or rotate it.
Is it safe on memory foam?
Yes, it’s a dry powder. Just vacuum it all up and don’t wet the foam.
Will Bicarbonate of Soda remove stains?
No, it freshens. Treat stains first with our Upholstery Spot Cleaner and let them dry.
Try this next: Carpet & Shoe Freshener →