The smell of an old, musty mattress can make it nearly impossible to get a good night’s sleep. Sure, a few spritzes of Febreze can help in the short term, but for lasting freshness, you need a more comprehensive plan of action.
Below we’ll discuss some easy and natural tips on how to make a stinky mattress smell good – so you can enjoy sweet-smelling dreams once again!
10 Best Ways on How to Make a Stinky Mattress Smell Good
1. Deep Clean With Baking Soda and Vinegar:
One of the most effective remedies for removing unpleasant odors from a mattress is to use baking soda and vinegar. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda on your mattress, let it sit for 30 minutes, and then vacuum it up. Next, mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle and lightly mist your mattress. Let it air dry and the vinegar will work to neutralize any remaining odors.
2. Use Essential Oils:
Essential oils are a natural way to freshen up your mattress and can provide soothing aromatherapy as well. Simply mix a few drops of your favorite essential oil with water in a spray bottle and lightly mist your mattress. Lavender, lemon, and tea tree oil are all great options for eliminating odors. Using a diffuser with essential oils in your bedroom can also help to keep your mattress smelling fresh.
3. Sunbathe Your Mattress:
Sunlight is a natural disinfectant and deodorizer. Put your mattress outside in direct sunlight for a few hours to allow the UV rays to kill any bacteria or mold that may be causing the odor. Just make sure to bring it back inside before it gets dark. This method is especially helpful for musty smells. If you’re unable to bring your mattress outside, you can also use a handheld steam cleaner to deep clean and deodorize.
4. Sprinkle With Cornstarch:
Similar to baking soda, cornstarch can help absorb any unwanted odors from your mattress. Simply sprinkle a thin layer over the surface of your mattress, let it sit for an hour or two, and then vacuum it up. You can also mix a few drops of essential oil with the cornstarch for added fragrance. Sprinkling cornstarch before using a handheld steam cleaner can also help to deodorize.
5. Wash Your Sheets and Bedding Regularly:
Regularly laundering your sheets, pillowcases, and bedding is essential in keeping your mattress smelling fresh. Sweat, body oils, and dead skin cells can build up over time and contribute to unpleasant odors. Make sure to wash your bedding at least once a week to prevent any buildup. This will also help to keep your mattress clean and prolong its lifespan.
6. Use Baking Soda on the Box Spring:
Don’t neglect the box spring when freshening up your mattress! Sprinkling baking soda on the fabric can help absorb any odors that may be lingering in the foundation of your bed. Let it sit for an hour or two, and then vacuum it up before making your bed. Using a mattress cover on your box spring can also help keep it clean and fresh.
7. Deodorize With Citrus:
Citrus fruits, like lemons and oranges, have natural deodorizing properties and can leave your mattress with a fresh scent. Simply cut a lemon or orange in half and rub the fruit directly onto the surface of your mattress. Let it air dry and then vacuum up any leftover residue. You can also mix lemon or orange juice with water in a spray bottle for an easy deodorizing mist.
8. Try Activated Charcoal:
Activated charcoal is known for its odor-absorbing properties and can be used to freshen up your mattress. Place a few briquettes of activated charcoal in a mesh bag or socks, and place them under your mattress. The charcoal will work to absorb any unwanted odors while you sleep. This is especially helpful for those who suffer from allergies or asthma.
9. Use a Mattress Protector:
Prevention is key in keeping your mattress smelling fresh. Investing in a waterproof and hypoallergenic mattress protector can help prevent any spills or accidents that can lead to unpleasant odors. Plus, it’s much easier to throw a mattress protector in the washing machine than it is to deep clean your entire mattress.
10. Keep Your Bedroom Well-Ventilated:
Proper air circulation in your bedroom can help prevent musty odors from developing in your mattress. Make sure to open windows and doors regularly, especially on dry and sunny days, to allow fresh air to circulate through the room. You can also use a fan or air purifier to keep the air moving and filter out any unwanted smells.
Following these tips and incorporating them into your regular mattress maintenance routine will help keep your bed smelling fresh and clean. Say goodbye to stinky mattresses and hello to sweet-smelling slumber! So, make sure to give your mattress some extra love and care to ensure a restful and refreshing night’s sleep. Happy sleeping!
Additional Tips and Tricks to Make a Stinky Mattress Smell Good
- If the stink persists, you can try sprinkling baking soda all over your mattress. Let it sit for a few hours, then vacuum it off.
- Another trick is to use white vinegar as a natural odor eliminator. Mix equal parts of water and white vinegar in a spray bottle and lightly mist your mattress. Let it air dry before putting it on clean sheets.
- For a more refreshing scent, try adding a few drops of your favorite essential oil to the vinegar and water mixture before spraying.
- Don’t forget about your pillows! They can also hold onto unwanted smells. Wash them according to the care instructions and add some baking soda or white vinegar to the wash cycle for an extra boost of freshness.
- If you’re dealing with a particularly stubborn smell, consider investing in a mattress encasement. These are designed to fully cover your mattress and protect it from stains and odors.
- Regularly flipping and rotating your mattress can also help prevent any lingering smells from becoming too strong.
- Keep your bedroom well-ventilated by opening windows or using a fan. Fresh air can do wonders for eliminating odors.
- When changing your sheets, take the opportunity to sprinkle some baking soda on your mattress and let it sit while you wash the linens. This will give the baking soda more time to absorb any lingering smells.
- To maintain a fresh-smelling mattress, consider using a mattress protector. This will not only protect against spills and stains but can also be easily washed to keep your mattress smelling clean.
- Lastly, make sure to regularly clean and vacuum your bedroom floors and any nearby furniture. This will prevent odors from spreading and lingering in your sleeping area.
Following these tips and tricks can help keep your mattress smelling fresh and clean. Remember, prevention is key, so try to tackle any spills or stains as soon as they happen. With a little bit of effort and some natural odor-fighting ingredients, you can say goodbye to a stinky mattress for good! Keep in mind that if the smell persists, it may be time to invest in a new mattress. Your sleep and overall health are worth it! So, keep your mattress clean and fresh with these simple tips and enjoy a good night’s rest every night. As the saying goes, a happy mattress leads to a happy sleep! Happy sleeping!
Things You Should Consider to Make a Stinky Mattress Smell Good
- Before trying any solutions, it is important to identify the cause of the smell. This will help you determine the best course of action and prevent further odors in the future. Some common causes of a stinky mattress include spills, sweat, pet accidents, and mold/mildew growth.
- Once you have identified the cause, it’s time to start cleaning! Begin by thoroughly vacuuming your mattress to remove any loose dirt or debris.
- For spills and stains, spot treat with a mixture of mild detergent and water. Be sure to blot the area instead of rubbing, as this can spread the stain and make it more difficult to remove.
- For sweat and body odor, sprinkle baking soda over the entire surface of the mattress and let it sit for at least an hour before vacuuming it off. Baking soda is a natural deodorizer and will help absorb any unpleasant odors.
- If the smell persists, consider using a specialized mattress cleaner or enzyme-based cleaner to break down any lingering odors.
- Another way to freshen up your mattress is to leave it out in the sun for a few hours. UV rays can help kill bacteria and eliminate odors.
- Don’t forget about your bedding! Wash all sheets, pillowcases, and blankets regularly to prevent any odors from transferring back onto your clean mattress.
- To prevent future smells, make sure to use a waterproof mattress protector and flip your mattress every few months.
- Lastly, consider investing in an air purifier for your bedroom. This will help remove any lingering odors and keep the air fresh and clean.
Following these considerations will not only help make your stinky mattress smell good but also ensure a healthier and more comfortable sleep environment. Remember to regularly clean and maintain your mattress to prevent any unpleasant odors from returning. Sweet dreams!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Causes a Mattress to Smell Bad?
Mattresses can develop unpleasant odors for a variety of reasons. The most common cause is simply prolonged use, as the human body produces sweat and oils while sleeping that can seep into the mattress fabric and create an odor over time. Other possible causes include spills or stains, mold or mildew growth due to moisture in the room, and even pet accidents.
How Can I Prevent My Mattress From Smelling?
The best way to prevent your mattress from developing a bad smell is to regularly clean and protect it. This includes using a waterproof mattress cover, washing your bedding weekly, and vacuuming the mattress at least once a month. It’s also important to keep your room well-ventilated and avoid eating or drinking in bed.
Can I Remove Odors from My Mattress?
Yes, it is possible to remove odors from your mattress. However, the method of removal will vary depending on the cause of the odor. For general odors caused by sweat and oils, you can sprinkle baking soda onto the surface of the mattress and let it sit for a few hours before vacuuming it off. For more stubborn odors, you may need to use a specialized odor-eliminating spray or consult a professional mattress cleaner.
When Should I Replace My Mattress?
It’s generally recommended to replace your mattress every 8-10 years, as this is the average lifespan of a quality mattress. However, if you notice significant sagging or discomfort before this timeframe, it may be time to consider purchasing a new mattress. Additionally, if your mattress has persistent odors that cannot be removed or is visibly damaged beyond repair, it’s best to replace it sooner rather than later. So, it is essential to regularly clean and maintain your mattress to prolong its lifespan and avoid unpleasant odors.
Conclusion
It’s possible for your mattress to stop smelling so much and feel as comfortable as it should. With some patience and the right products, you can go a long way in getting your mattress to smell good and feel fresh. All it takes is for you to be consistent with your cleaning schedule, not wait too long in between cleaning sessions, and get rid of any odors before they take hold.
Before long, you’ll have a renewed sense of comfort knowing that your mattress is clean and sweet-smelling for the next few months or longer! So why not give these tips a try? It may take some effort on your part, but the results will be worth it in the end. Don’t forget – how to make a stinky mattress smell good isn’t impossible – just give it a shot!
