How To Clean A Pillow Top Mattress

(Many of the links in this article redirect to a specific reviewed product. Your purchase of these products through affiliate links helps to generate commission for Storables.com, at no extra cost. Learn more)

Introduction

Pillow top mattresses are a wonderful addition to any bedroom, offering an extra layer of plush comfort and support. However, like any mattress, they require regular maintenance and cleaning to ensure their longevity and keep them fresh and hygienic.

In this article, we will guide you through the process of cleaning a pillow top mattress effectively and efficiently. From preparing the mattress to removing stains and spills, deodorizing, vacuuming, and general maintenance tips, you’ll learn everything you need to know to keep your pillow top mattress in top-notch condition.

Before diving into the cleaning process, it’s important to understand the unique construction of a pillow top mattress. These mattresses are designed with an additional layer of padding on top, providing superior cushioning and support. The padding is typically made of materials such as memory foam, latex, or fiberfill.

Due to the additional padding, pillow top mattresses require special care when cleaning to prevent the padding from becoming damaged or losing its shape. With the right techniques and tools, you can keep your pillow top mattress clean, fresh, and comfortable for years to come.

Now, let’s get started with the step-by-step process of cleaning your pillow top mattress.

Step 1: Preparation

Before you begin cleaning your pillow top mattress, it’s essential to prepare the area and gather the necessary supplies.

1. Clear the surrounding area: Start by removing any items near the mattress, such as pillows, blankets, or other bedroom decor. This will give you ample space to work and prevent any accidental spills or stains on these items.
2. Gather your cleaning supplies: Make sure you have all the necessary cleaning supplies on hand. This may include mild detergent, warm water, hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, a spray bottle, a soft scrub brush, and clean towels or microfiber cloths.
3. Check the manufacturer’s instructions: Read the manufacturer’s instructions or warranty information that came with your mattress for any specific cleaning recommendations. Some mattress manufacturers may have specific guidelines or restrictions when it comes to cleaning certain types of stains or using certain cleaning agents.
4. Test for color fastness: Before applying any cleaning solution to your pillow top mattress, it’s important to test a small, inconspicuous area to ensure that the fabric is colorfast. Apply a small amount of the cleaning solution to an unseen area and blot it with a clean cloth. If there is no color transfer or damage, you can proceed with confidence.

By taking the time to prepare properly, you’ll be able to clean your pillow top mattress efficiently and minimize the risk of any damage or adverse reactions to the cleaning agents.

Now that you’ve prepared the mattress and gathered your supplies, it’s time to move on to the next step: removing stains and spills.

Step 2: Removing Stains and Spills

Over time, accidents happen, and spills or stains can end up on your pillow top mattress. The key to successfully removing these stains is to act quickly and use the right techniques.

Follow these steps to remove stains and spills from your pillow top mattress:

1. Blot the stain: If you catch a spill or stain immediately, start by blotting it gently with a clean cloth or paper towel. Do not rub the stain, as it can push it further into the mattress fibers.
2. Use an appropriate cleaning solution: Depending on the type of stain, you may need different cleaning solutions. Here are a few common stain removal methods:
   • For water-based stains: Mix a small amount of mild detergent with warm water. Dip a clean cloth or sponge into the solution and gently blot the stain.
   • For food or beverage stains: Create a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and water, making sure to dilute the hydrogen peroxide. Apply the solution to the stain and blot gently.
   • For urine or pet stains: Combine equal parts of water and white vinegar. Apply the mixture to the stain and blot gently.
   • For oil or grease stains: Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda on the stain and let it sit for a few hours to absorb the oil. Then, vacuum the baking soda away.
3. Blot and repeat: After applying the cleaning solution, continue to blot the stain gently until it starts to fade. Avoid using too much liquid, as it can soak into the mattress padding and cause damage.
4. Rinse with clean water: Once the stain is removed, dampen a clean cloth with plain water and gently blot the area to rinse away any leftover cleaning solution.
5. Air dry: Allow the mattress to air dry completely before moving on to the next step. This may take several hours or overnight depending on the size of the stain and the absorbency of the mattress padding.

Remember, it’s crucial to act quickly when dealing with stains and spills to prevent them from setting in and becoming more difficult to remove. By using the appropriate cleaning solutions and following these steps, you can successfully eliminate stains and spills from your pillow top mattress.

Now that you’ve cleaned up any stains or spills, it’s time to move on to the next step: deodorizing your pillow top mattress.

Step 3: Deodorizing

Keeping your pillow top mattress smelling fresh is just as important as keeping it clean. Over time, sweat, body oils, and other odors can build up in the mattress, causing it to become less inviting. To eliminate these unwanted odors and leave your mattress smelling pleasant, follow these deodorizing steps:

1. Start with a thorough vacuuming: Before deodorizing, it’s essential to remove any loose dirt, dust, and debris from the mattress. Use your vacuum cleaner’s upholstery attachment to gently vacuum the entire surface of the mattress, paying extra attention to the seams and crevices.
2. Apply baking soda: Baking soda is a natural deodorizer that can help absorb odors from your pillow top mattress. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the entire surface, focusing on areas that tend to retain odors.
3. Massage the baking soda into the mattress: Using a soft scrub brush, gently massage the baking soda into the mattress’s surface. This will help the baking soda penetrate the fabric and absorb any lingering odors.
4. Let it sit: Allow the baking soda to sit on the mattress for at least 30 minutes, or longer if possible. This will give it time to work its magic and absorb the odors.
5. Vacuum again: After the baking soda has had time to sit, use your vacuum cleaner’s upholstery attachment to thoroughly vacuum the mattress once again. Make sure to remove all traces of the baking soda.

By following these deodorizing steps regularly, you can keep your pillow top mattress smelling fresh and inviting. Baking soda is a safe and effective solution for neutralizing odors, and it’s gentle enough not to harm the mattress’s materials.

Now that your mattress is clean and deodorized, it’s important to maintain its hygiene and performance through regular vacuuming.

To clean a pillow top mattress, start by vacuuming the surface to remove dust and debris. Then, spot clean any stains with a mixture of mild detergent and water, using a soft cloth. Allow the mattress to air dry completely before making the bed.

Step 4: Vacuuming

Vacuuming your pillow top mattress on a regular basis is crucial for maintaining its cleanliness and prolonging its lifespan. Vacuuming helps remove dust, dead skin cells, and other particles that can accumulate on the surface and within the mattress. Here’s how to effectively vacuum your pillow top mattress:

1. Choose the right attachment: Ensure that your vacuum cleaner has a brush attachment or an upholstery attachment specifically designed for cleaning mattresses. These attachments are gentler and won’t damage the delicate padding of your pillow top mattress.
2. Start from the top: Begin vacuuming from the top of the mattress and work your way down, covering the entire surface area. Pay close attention to the seams, corners, and edges where dust and debris tend to accumulate.
3. Use slow and gentle strokes: When vacuuming the mattress, use slow and gentle strokes to give the suction time to remove the dirt and dust particles. Avoid pushing too hard or using a vigorous motion, as this may compress the padding or damage the fabric.
4. Focus on problem areas: If there are specific areas of the mattress that are prone to stains or spills, spend extra time vacuuming those spots to ensure they are thoroughly cleaned.
5. Vacuum both sides: Don’t forget to flip your pillow top mattress and vacuum the other side as well. This will help remove any accumulated dust and maintain the overall cleanliness of the mattress.

Regular vacuuming should be included in your mattress maintenance routine. Aim to vacuum your pillow top mattress at least once a month, or more frequently if needed, to keep it fresh and free from dirt and allergens.

Now that your pillow top mattress is clean and refreshed, it’s important to consider providing it with proper care and maintenance through flipping and rotating.

Step 5: Flipping and Rotating

Flipping and rotating your pillow top mattress is an essential step in maintaining its shape, reducing wear and tear, and ensuring even distribution of weight and pressure points. While not all pillow top mattresses are designed to be flipped, most can benefit from regular rotating. Here’s how to properly flip and rotate your mattress:

1. Check the manufacturer’s instructions: Before flipping or rotating your mattress, refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines to determine if it is designed to be flipped. Some pillow top mattresses have a specific top and bottom, while others have a one-sided design.
2. Flip the mattress: If your pillow top mattress is designed to be flipped, start by removing all bedding and cushions. Carefully flip the mattress over, so the top becomes the bottom. This helps prevent uneven wear and sagging in specific areas.
3. Rotate the mattress: Even if your mattress doesn’t require flipping, you should still rotate it regularly. This means turning it 180 degrees so that the head end becomes the foot end. This promotes more even compression of the padding and extends the mattress’s overall lifespan.
4. Repeat the process: Aim to flip and rotate your pillow top mattress every three to six months or as recommended by the manufacturer. Regularly alternating the sleeping surface will help maintain its comfort and prevent body impressions from forming.

By following these flipping and rotating guidelines, you can ensure the longevity and durability of your pillow top mattress. Remember to check the manufacturer’s instructions for specific recommendations and always prioritize your mattress’s care and maintenance.

Now that you’ve learned how to flip and rotate your pillow top mattress, let’s move on to some general maintenance tips to keep it in excellent condition.

Step 6: Regular Maintenance Tips

In addition to regular cleaning, there are several maintenance practices you can implement to keep your pillow top mattress in optimal condition. Follow these tips to ensure its longevity and continue enjoying a comfortable and hygienic sleep surface:

1. Use a mattress protector: Invest in a high-quality mattress protector to prevent spills, stains, and dust from reaching your pillow top mattress. This protective barrier will prolong its lifespan and make cleaning easier.
2. Rotate the mattress regularly: As mentioned in the previous step, rotating your pillow top mattress every three to six months helps distribute the wear and tear more evenly, preventing the formation of permanent body impressions.
3. Avoid sitting on the edges: Sitting on the edges of your mattress regularly can cause sagging and weakening of the edge support. Try to distribute your weight evenly by using the entire surface of the mattress.
4. Keep pets away: While we love our furry friends, it’s best to keep them off the bed when possible. Pet dander, oils, and accidents can accumulate and affect the cleanliness and freshness of your pillow top mattress.
5. Avoid excessive moisture: Moisture can lead to mold or mildew growth, which is detrimental to your mattress’s health. Keep the mattress dry by promptly addressing spills, leaks, or excess humidity in the bedroom.
6. Follow weight restrictions: Pay attention to the weight restrictions set by the manufacturer. Overloading the mattress with excessive weight can lead to premature wear, sagging, and decreased comfort.
7. Regularly dust and vacuum the bedroom: By keeping the bedroom clean and free from dust and debris, you can minimize the amount of dirt that settles onto your mattress, reducing the need for frequent cleaning.

By incorporating these regular maintenance tips into your mattress care routine, you can preserve the quality and comfort of your pillow top mattress for years to come.

With the completion of these steps, you have successfully learned how to clean and maintain your pillow top mattress. With proper care, it will continue to provide you with a comfortable and rejuvenating sleep experience.

Happy sleeping!

Conclusion

Cleaning and maintaining your pillow top mattress is essential for its longevity, hygiene, and overall comfort. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can keep your mattress clean, fresh, and in optimal condition for years to come.

From the initial preparation to removing stains and spills, deodorizing, vacuuming, and flipping and rotating, each step plays a crucial role in maintaining your mattress’s cleanliness and performance. Remember to always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for specific cleaning recommendations and instructions.

Regular vacuuming, along with proper flipping and rotating, helps distribute wear and tear evenly, preventing sagging and prolonging the lifespan of your pillow top mattress. Using a mattress protector, keeping pets away, and avoiding excessive moisture are also important maintenance practices.

Additionally, prompt action is key when dealing with spills and stains. Having the right cleaning solutions on hand and using gentle blotting motions can help eliminate stains effectively without damaging the mattress’s padding.

By integrating these cleaning and maintenance practices into your routine, you can ensure a fresh, clean, and comfortable sleep surface. A clean pillow top mattress not only improves sleep quality but also contributes to a healthier and more inviting bedroom environment.

So, take the time to care for your pillow top mattress regularly, and it will provide you with the comfort and support you need to enjoy restful nights for years to come.