How to Get Stains Off a Mattress: A Complete Cleaning Guide

by Rigoberto Santaella - July 1, 2025

A dirty mattress can become uncomfortable, as stains and residue trapped in the fibers make the surface less soft and hygienic. So, if you want a good night’s rest, it’s essential to know how to get stains off a mattress and keep it as clean as possible.

In addition to creating a bad impression, a dirty mattress can lead to a worse night’s sleep. Odors and accumulated bacteria not only affect sleep quality but can also trigger health problems, such as allergies or skin irritations.

In this guide, Yorleny’s Cleaning Services teaches you how to clean stains from a mattress using simple, effective methods. We’ll show you the most reliable techniques for stain mattress removal. You’ll also get practical tips on how to get stains off a mattress and maintain it over time. Apply this complete cleaning guide, and your mattress will look — and feel — like new again.

Common Mattress Stains and How to Identify Them

We all stain our beds at some point in our lives: illnesses, babies, accidents involving food or drinks, and other incidents happen, and we have no choice but to get to work on how to get rid of stains on a mattress and sleep in a clean environment.

These are the five most common residues to tackle. We’ll explain how to identify them in each case.

Sweat and Body Oil Stains

Sweat is the silent residue on mattresses because it slowly forms yellow stains, and by the time you notice them, it may be too late.

These stains are usually yellowish and are caused by the accumulation of sweat and body oils over time. The best way to clean a stained mattress from sweat is to act early and use natural absorbents and gentle cleaners.

Urine and Pet Accidents

They might be yellow or brown in appearance and are notoriously difficult to remove, particularly if they are old.

The sooner you address biological stains like urine, the better the results. Urine also emits an unpleasant odor as it dries, making stain mattress removal even more urgent.

Blood and Bodily Fluids

Fresh stains are clearly identifiable despite their color variation. Hydrogen peroxide bleaches blood, which works brilliantly.

If you are someone who routinely deals with blood stains, it’s helpful to know how to get stains off a mattress and prevent deep absorption by using protective covers.

Mold and Mildew in Humid Climates (Florida)

It appears as green, black, or yellowish stains and usually appears in humid environments like Florida.
Removing mold stains from a pillowcase or mattress requires a more thorough cleaning, drying, and disinfection. Baking soda is often the best way on how to get stains off a mattress in such cases.

Best Ways to Clean Stains from a Mattress

Before going into detail about the procedure for how to get stains off a mattress, we need to talk about frequency and intensity.

We can distinguish between weekly, emergency, or deep mattress cleaning:

• Under normal conditions, it’s recommended to inspect and lightly clean your mattress weekly.
• Emergency cleaning: If you spill something, sweat excessively, or stain it with any biological fluid, you should spot clean the mattress immediately.
• Semi-annual cleaning: Even if no major stains are visible, doing a deep cleaning twice a year helps prevent buildup and get rid of stains on the mattress that may have gone unnoticed.

How to Spot Clean a Mattress

Mattress stains are common, but they don’t have to be a cause for concern. If you’re wondering how to get stains off a mattress without damaging the fabric, we’ll show you how to clean a stained mattress using the proper methods

1. Cleaning with white vinegar:

If your mattress has sweat or food stains, prepare a mixture of white vinegar and water (in equal parts). Use a clean cloth to apply the mixture to the stain. Let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub with a soft brush.

2. Using a mild detergent:

For tougher stains, use a mild detergent diluted in warm water. Gently rub the detergent into the stain and dry with a clean cloth. There are also special soaps for removing tough stains from fabrics, but you’ll need to be careful and dilute it well.

DIY Mattress Stain Removal with Vinegar and Baking Soda

If you’re looking for natural and eco-friendly ways to learn how to get stains off a mattress, you’re in luck. To effectively remove yellow stains from your mattress, you can use various natural products that are easy to find at home. Below are the best options:

Liquid Soap and Water

Liquid soap is a gentle yet effective cleanser that helps dissolve dirt and remove greasy residue that can contribute to the appearance of yellow stains on your mattress.

Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide

This combination is a true “miracle blend” for removing yellow stains from your mattress. Baking soda acts as an absorbent agent that removes moisture and neutralizes odors, while hydrogen peroxide breaks down stains and disinfects the surface.

Warm Water and White Vinegar

White vinegar is an excellent natural cleaner that helps dissolve stains and eliminate unpleasant odors from your mattress. Its acidity helps break down organic residues and neutralize bacteria that can cause unpleasant odors.

Preventing Future Mattress Stains and Odors

Keeping your mattress clean is simple if you follow a few basic cleaning routines. Here are some ideas for keeping your mattress in peak condition:

Use of Mattress Protectors and Covers

Installing a mattress protector is one of the best ways to keep your mattress clean and stain-free. A good protector acts as a barrier against sweat, body oils, dust, and accidental spills. It also makes the cleaning process easier, as you’ll only have to wash the protector instead of cleaning the entire mattress. Protectors also help reduce overall wear and tear, keeping your mattress surface in better condition for longer. If you don’t already have one, you should definitely get one to avoid having to figure out how to get stains off a mattress later.

Cleaning Tips for Florida’s Humid Conditions

Humidity is one of a mattress’s worst enemies, as it can cause mold, mildew, and unpleasant odors. In humid areas like Florida, you should consider using a dehumidifier or ventilating the room well to prevent the mattress from absorbing moisture from the environment. Also, make sure your rooms are well-ventilated, especially if your mattress accidentally gets wet. Preventing excess moisture buildup will help you avoid having to learn how to get stains off a mattress due to mold.

Turn Your Mattress Regularly

Turning your mattress every 3 to 6 months is one of the most effective habits for prolonging its lifespan. This not only prevents warping but also prevents dirt and dust mites from accumulating in one place. If your mattress has two usable sides, be sure to alternate them so both wear evenly — and reduce the chances you’ll need to figure out how to get stains off a mattress later.

When to Hire a Professional Mattress Cleaning Service

Sometimes, no matter how much effort you put in, stains just won’t budge—or worse, they come back. That’s when calling in the professionals makes all the difference.

Signs It’s Time to Call the Experts

If you’ve tried every home remedy on how to get stains off a mattress and still see discoloration, lingering odors, or signs of mold, it’s time to bring in help. Professional cleaning is also recommended when:

• The stains are deeply set or cover a large area
• You notice allergy symptoms like sneezing or itchy skin after sleeping
• The mattress has a musty smell, especially in humid climates like Florida
• It’s been over a year since your last deep mattress cleaning

What to Expect from a Professional Cleaning in Florida

In a professional cleaning session, experts use commercial-grade equipment and safe, effective solutions to sanitize, deodorize, and remove stains without damaging your mattress. At Yorleny’s Cleaning Service, our team understands exactly how to get stains off a mattress—even the toughest ones—and restore freshness to your sleep environment.

Want to extend the life of your mattress and improve your sleep? Contact us today to schedule your professional mattress cleaning in Palm Beach County. We’ll help you breathe easier and sleep better—starting tonight.

FAQs About Cleaning Mattress Stains

What Is the Best Way to Clean a Stained Mattress?

Blotting, stain removal products, and deodorizing with baking soda are all effective methods for cleaning a discolored mattress. If you’re wondering how to get stains off a mattress, start by blotting fresh stains promptly with a clean cloth and cold water. For harder stains, a solution of baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and dish soap can work. Allowing baking soda to rest on the mattress overnight will also help deodorize and remove stains effectively.

Can Old Stains Be Removed from Mattresses?

Yes, old mattress stains may often be removed, and knowing how to get stains off a mattress—even if they’ve been there a while—can save you from replacing it too soon. It all depends on the type of stain and how long it has been present. While fresh stains are typically simpler to remove, many older stains can still be properly lifted with the right method and a little patience.

Are Store-Bought Cleaners Safe for Memory Foam Mattresses?

While some store-bought cleaners may be suitable for memory foam mattresses, it is critical to avoid harsh chemicals and excess moisture. If you’re exploring how to get stains off a mattress made of memory foam, opt for gentle, natural cleaners or cleaning solutions made specifically for memory foam. Always refer to the manufacturer’s directions for your individual mattress and try any cleaning on a small, inconspicuous area first.