How to remove mould from a mattress: a complete guide

Why does mould grow in a mattress?

Mould thrives in damp, warm places with little ventilation. Your mattress can become an ideal breeding ground for several reasons:

• High humidity in the bedroom

• Sweating in your sleep (did you know we lose around half a litre of moisture a night on average?)

• Spills that have not dried properly

• Poor ventilation underneath the mattress

Poor ventilation is one of the main causes of mould in mattresses, because it lets moisture build up and creates an unhealthy sleeping environment.

Where mould appears on a mattress and how to recognise it

Mould can turn up in different places in your mattress: on the surface, in the foam layers or even in the cover. To treat it effectively, it is important to work out where the mould is and what kind it is.

Black mould is a common type found on mattresses. It often starts as small black spots that can spread into larger patches. Pink and green mould are less common, but they do occur. Once you know the type of mould and where it sits, you can clean your mattress in a more targeted and effective way.

How mould affects your mattress and your health

Mould in your mattress can have serious consequences for both the mattress and your health:

Effects on your mattress

• Lower quality and less comfort

• Weakened support, making the whole mattress less comfortable

• A shorter lifespan for your mattress

Effects on your health

• Sore throat and irritated airways

• Tightness in the chest and wheezing

• Allergic reactions

• Worsening asthma and other respiratory conditions

That is why it is essential to treat and remove mould in your mattress as quickly as possible.

What you need to remove mould

Before you start tackling the mould stains, gather the following:

• Vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment (for vacuuming the mattress)

• White vinegar

• Hydrogen peroxide

• Clean cloths (both dry and damp)

• Bicarbonate of soda

• Protective gloves

• Face mask

• Spray bottle

• Removable zip-off cover (if your mattress has one)

Why the right products matter

Using the right products is crucial when you treat mould in a mattress. Vinegar and bicarbonate of soda are two effective remedies that are often used to remove mould.

Vinegar works as a natural disinfectant against bacteria and mould spores, while bicarbonate of soda helps to neutralise odours and absorb moisture. It is important to use them correctly so the mould is removed properly.

Cleaning and drying your mattress regularly also helps to stop the mould from returning. Bear in mind that some organic stains and stubborn marks may need several treatments.

Step-by-step guide: cleaning your mattress and removing mould

1. Preparation

Start by taking precautions to protect yourself from mould spores:

• Put on gloves

• Wear a face mask

• Open the window for good ventilation

• Strip the bedding and, if possible, the zip-off cover from the mattress

2. First clean of the mattress

Begin by vacuuming the whole mattress thoroughly, paying extra attention to the affected areas. Use the upholstery attachment on your vacuum cleaner. Vacuuming removes surface dust and mould spores before you start the wet cleaning.

3. Treating the mould

Make an effective cleaning solution:

• Mix equal parts white vinegar and water

• Pour the solution into a spray bottle

• Spray it lightly onto the mould stains (do not soak the mattress)

• Leave it to soak in for 1 hour

• Blot the area dry with clean, dry cloths

4. Extra treatment with hydrogen peroxide for stubborn stains

For stubborn stains on your mattress:

• Spray 3% hydrogen peroxide onto the remaining stains

• Leave it to work for 30 minutes

• Blot dry again

• Make sure the damp area can dry properly

5. Deodorising with bicarbonate of soda

• Sprinkle bicarbonate of soda over the treated area

• Work it in lightly with a clean brush

• Leave it for at least 8 hours, ideally overnight

• Vacuum thoroughly once it is dry

• Repeat if necessary for old stains or urine stains

Can you wash a mattress?

If your mattress has a zip-off cover, you can wash the cover separately in the washing machine. Always check the care label for the right temperature. For the mattress core itself:

• Most mattresses cannot be washed as a whole

• Spot clean local stains such as blood

• Let the mattress dry completely before you use it again

• If in doubt, check your mattress instructions or contact the manufacturer

How to prevent mould caused by poor ventilation

Prevent new mould stains with these measures:

• Keep the bedroom well ventilated (open the window)

• Use a mattress protector that is breathable yet moisture-resistant

• Keep humidity below 60% with a dehumidifier

• Clean up any spills straight away

• Turn your mattress regularly so that both sides can air properly

• Look after your mattress by cleaning it regularly

• Have your mattress cleaned professionally to remove stubborn stains

• Air your bed regularly so that the mattress and its core can breathe

What to do if your pet wees on the mattress

If your pets have a habit of weeing on the mattress:

• Treat the stain immediately so no urine residue is left behind

• Cat urine often causes strong odours and can leave brown discolouration

• Use special enzyme cleaners that break down organic stains

• Consider a waterproof mattress protector

Choosing a breathable mattress for a healthy sleeping environment

A breathable mattress is essential for a healthy sleeping environment. Mattresses with good ventilation, such as pocket sprung mattresses, help to prevent mould by carrying away moisture and heat.

It is also important to clean and dry your mattress regularly so that it keeps breathing well. By choosing a mattress with good airflow, you help to keep your sleeping environment clean and healthy and reduce the risk of dust mites.

When should you call in a professional?

In some cases, professional help is needed:

• If the mould has got deep inside the mattress

• If large areas are affected, or the mould has spread across a large part of the mattress

• If you are allergic to mould

• If the mould comes back after treatment

• If you are unsure whether the mattress can still be saved or needs replacing

Professional mattress cleaners have special equipment for dry deep cleaning that is far more effective than anything you can do at home.

Conclusion: a clean mattress for a healthy night's sleep

With the right approach, you can remove mould stains from your mattress effectively. The key is to act quickly as soon as you spot mould and to take preventive measures so it does not come back.

By cleaning your mattress regularly, keeping it well ventilated and calling in a professional for stubborn problems, you keep your mattress clean and healthy, and your sleep along with it.

Frequently asked questions about mattress cleaning and mould removal

Can I use bleach to remove mould?

No. Do not use bleach, as it can damage the materials in your mattress and give off harmful fumes. Always choose milder, natural cleaners such as vinegar, bicarbonate of soda or dedicated mattress cleaners.

How long does it take for mould to disappear completely?

With the right treatment, you should see results within 24-48 hours. Stubborn stains may need several treatments. Make sure your mattress is completely dry before you start again.

Is it safe to sleep on a mattress after mould treatment?

Wait until the mattress is completely dry and has been well aired. This usually takes 24 hours after the last treatment. A damp mattress can lead to new mould growth, so give it time to dry.

How often should I clean my mattress?

For good hygiene, it is advisable to clean and vacuum your mattress thoroughly at least twice a year. If you sweat a lot or have allergies, you may need to do it more often. Regular care prevents mould and extends the life of your mattress.

Should I turn my mattress regularly?

Yes, turning your mattress regularly is highly recommended. Turning it roughly every three months gives even wear and extends its life considerably. With most mattresses, it is advisable to rotate it end to end (head to foot) and flip it over (top to bottom), if the type of mattress allows.

Turning your mattress regularly has several benefits:

• It prevents sagging in the spots where you usually lie

• All sides of the mattress are better ventilated

• Less risk of moisture build-up and mould

• Support and comfort stay at their best

Note: some modern mattresses, such as one-sided mattresses with specific comfort layers, should only be rotated end to end and never flipped over. Always check the manufacturer's advice for your type of mattress.

Can a mouldy mattress be saved, or do I need a new one?

That depends on how severe and how deep the mould is. Surface mould can usually be treated successfully with the methods in this guide. If the mould has penetrated deep into the mattress, or the problem keeps coming back, a new mattress may be the healthiest option.