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

As 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

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.

Step 3: Remove any stains

After 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

After 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.

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.