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How to Steam Clean a Mattress (In 4 Easy Steps)

Updated February 23, 2021 By Household Advice Staff

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steam clean a mattressAs your mattress ages, you may notice it begin to feel grimy and loose support. If your mattress is getting up there in age, it might also be changing color: from once bleach-white to a light beige.

However, what if you don’t want to part ways with your mattress yet, but just want to freshen it up? Well, that’s where steam cleaning comes into play.

Keep on reading to see how to steam clean a mattress, and save yourself from buying a new one.

Step 1: Strip the Sheets and Blankets Off

Contents

  • 1 Step 1: Strip the Sheets and Blankets Off
  • 2 Step 2: Give it a Good Vacuum
  • 3 Step 3: Remove any stains
  • 4 Step 4: Full Steam Ahead
  • 5 Why Should I Steam My Mattress, Anyway?
    • 5.1 Related Posts:

Before you can start steaming your mattress, you’ll want to remove all the bedding from it.

This also means you’ll need to remove a water-resistant cover if you’ve chosen to use one. Now’s also good time to plug in your steam cleaner to give it a chance to heat and build steam.

Step 2: Give it a Good Vacuum

Once the mattress is bare, grab either a handheld of full-sized vacuum cleaner. Consider using brush-like and upholstery attachments to vacuum the entire mattress.

 Pay close attention to seams and corners,  as these can harbor years of accumulated dirt and debris. Feel free to use a powder-based upholstery conditioner to help remove any discoloration

Step 3: Remove any stains

remove bed stainsAfter you’ve vacuumed the mattress, you can now spot treat stains. Use an upholstery cleaner to help remove any lingering stains.

For stubborn stains, combine one part heavy-duty laundry detergent with four parts water. Here’s how to apply the solution correctly on the stain:

  1. Wet a rag with the detergent solution.
  2. Place the solution on the stain and allow it to soak.
  3. Massage the solution into the stain.
  4. Let sit for five to ten minutes to help lift stain.
  5. Rub dry with a clean towel.
  6. Completely dry before moving forward.

Some tough stains might require spot treating a few times to remove them completely.

Step 4: Full Steam Ahead

steaming a mattressAfter you’ve completed all the above steps, you can start steaming your mattress.

If your steamer has a “mop” attachment, simply slide it up and down the mattress, making sure to treat every area. Don’t forget to clean the sides, too.

For regular steam cleaners, do the following:

  1. Hold the system about six inches from the mattress.
  2. Steam in circular motions, up-and-down, or side-to-side.
  3. Allow steam to fully evaporate.
  4. Repeat steaming only if necessary.
No matter how you steam, make sure you don’t spend more than ten seconds in any one area. This can cause excess moisture to build up inside. When the steam condenses, this can cause mold to build up in your mattress.

Once you’re satisfied, grab a clean and dry towel, then rub and pat your mattress to remove grime and dirt.

Why Should I Steam My Mattress, Anyway?

Steaming your mattress does more than help it looking new.  Below are other benefits to steaming a mattress: 

  • Steaming can deodorize the bed and remove off-putting odors.
  • Because the steam is incredibly hot, it effectively sanitizes the mattress.
  • Regular steam can help kill off bed bugs and dust mites.
  • Steaming your mattress will help keep your bedding stay cleaner for longer.

Steaming your mattress every once in a while will keep it looking new and smelling great.

Related Posts:

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    How to Steam Clean a Memory Foam Mattress (The Best Way)
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    How to Steam Clean a Couch
  • Can You Steam Hardwood Floors?
    Can You Steam Hardwood Floors?
  • How to Clean Floor Tile Grout [Like a Pro]
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    Shark Steam Mop Review

Filed Under: Steam Cleaner Guides

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