How to Clean a Memory Foam Mattress

After years of tossing and turning and waking up in the middle of the night with back aches and joint pain, you decided to splurge on a memory foam mattress — the way the foam contours to your body and relieves pressure on your joints and back, you’re finally getting a good night’s sleep and it was worth every penny. But since the unique foam material requires a bit of extra care compared to a traditional mattress, knowing how to clean a memory foam mattress is key to ensuring it stays in good condition for as long as possible, stretching those dollars spent. So we asked experts to share just how to clean it so it stays in tip-top condition.

What exactly is memory foam?

Memory foam mattresses are primarily composed of viscoelastic foam, commonly known as memory foam. This foam is sensitive to temperature and pressure, allowing it to contour and mold to the shape of your body when you lie down. This is where their unique ability to relieve pressure points and provide a personalized, conforming feel. comes in. But, when it comes to stains, spills and deodorizing, that same material that sets a memory foam mattress apart from innerspring and coil-based mattresses, also requires specific care, says Karina Toner, operations manager at Spekless Cleaning. From spills and stains to musty smells, here’s how to clean a memory foam mattress. (Click through to learn how fiberglass in mattresses can affect your health.)

To clean spills on your memory foam mattress

Oops! you went to grab a glass of water from your bedside table and you spilled it right on your mattress. Since a memory foam mattress will easily absorb moisture, this can lead to mold and bacteria growth, plus, memory foam can lose its shape and support when wet, making them uncomfortable to sleep on. What’s key: Tackle any spills while they’re still wet. “Fresh spills are typically easier to remove because the liquid hasn’t had a chance to fully set into the memory foam fibers,” Toner shares. “This makes cleaning more effective and may prevent the stain from becoming permanent. It also means you won’t need to resort to heavy scrubbing or the use of stronger cleaning agents, which could potentially damage the memory foam.”

For small spills: Grab some absorbent paper towels and use a dabbing motion (rather than a circular one) to blot the moisture, advises Toner. Put slight pressure down as you blot to help bring the liquid up.

For bigger spills: Pour on some kitty litter! The material is made to absorb moisture and it can help soak up any larger spills. Simply sprinkle some on top of the spill, then place a towel over it and push down lightly to help bring the liquid up. Vacuum up the litter and then use a hair dryer to help dry up any excess moisture. Let cool before getting back in bed.