How to Clean A Memory Foam Mattress

Given the long-term investment of a mattress in a box, and the amount of time spent in our beds, it is important to know how to maintain the health and cleanliness of a mattress over time. BedInABox® mattresses are constructed with memory foam that minimizes motion transfer (a must if your partner gets up throughout the night or sleeps restlessly), contours to your body and pressure points, and regulates temperature (a bonus if you sleep hot). So how do we ensure you can enjoy the benefits of BedInABox® memory foam over time? We help you understand how to properly clean and care for it. Below are our best suggestions on how to thoroughly clean your memory foam mattress.

Method 1: Use a Mattress Protector

For simple upkeep, we suggest pairing your BedInABox® mattress with our BedInABox® Tencel™ Protector or our BedInABox® Cooling Protector. In using a mattress protector, you are creating a breathable, washable barrier against dust mites, bacteria, and fluids that helps protect the integrity of your mattress materials which generally prolongs the life of the mattress itself. While using mattress protectors minimizes the frequency with which a mattress needs deeper cleaning, it is still important to routinely clean your mattress following the methods below.

Method 2: Gently Vacuum

The first and simplest cleaning method we recommend is to gently vacuum your mattress. Vacuuming your mattress won’t remove stains, but it is perfect for removing crumbs, dust mites and any other loose particles that sit on the surface of your mattress.

Step 1: Remove all bedding, blankets and pillows from your mattress (go ahead and wash those while you’re at it).

Step 2: Grab a vacuum with a wide, clean nozzle and brush over the entire surface of your mattress.

Step 3: Allow your mattress air out for several hours before dressing with bedding again.

Method 3: Spot Clean Stains with Gentle Cleaning Solutions

When you notice stains either on the surface of your mattress cover or the surface of your memory foam mattress that don’t seem to lift with a vacuum, we always suggest using a gentle cleaning solution or stain remover to spot clean. One of our favorite, mattress safe DIY cleaning solutions for light surface stains is a simple combination of water and laundry detergent. Keep reading for an easy how-to for making your own cleaning solution at home.

Step 1: Mix equal parts laundry detergent and water in a spray bottle and shake to blend.

Step 2: Spray any stains generously, without saturating the surface, and dab with a small damp towel or gently scrub in a circular motion to absorb the stain.

Step 3: After the stain is removed, press a dry rag to any noticeable wet spots to absorb excess liquid.

Step 4: Let your mattress to dry before making your bed with clean linens. If you are pressed for time, turn on a fan in the bedroom to help with dry time.

For deeper, more stubborn stains (you know the ones from coffee and wine spills) we still suggest spot cleaning, but with a cleaning solution that will better break down and neutralize stains. Avoid using agents like hydrogen peroxide, which can affect the color of your memory foam or quality of your mattress cover, and gravitate to more natural cleaning agents like white vinegar. Here are simple instructions on how to make our favorite DIY vinegar stain-removing solution.

Step 1: Create a 1:1 ratio of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.

Step 2: Before applying your cleaning solution, absorb as much of the spill or stain as possible with a dry towel. Then, mist the stained area with the solution of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle and dab the stain with a clean towel.

Step 3: If the stain persists, sprinkle a little bit of baking soda on top of the stain and let it sit for about eight hours. The baking soda should absorb any remaining moisture and help neutralize the stain.

Step 4: Vacuum any residual baking soda and let the spot air dry before making your bed.

Tips for keeping your BedInABox® Clean

While we use only certified safe, high quality memory foams developed in-house to build our BedInABox® mattresses (that can last you 10+ years with the proper maintenance), it is important to perform some simple “routine maintenance” to lengthen the durability of your memory foam mattress. Keep any noticeable odors in check by regularly cleaning your sheets and bedding and treating your mattress with the occasional baking soda cleanse. Vacuum your mattress occasionally to keep it free of crumbs, dead skin and dust, which will also help prevent bed bugs, viruses and seasonal allergies. And while we never recommend flipping your BedInABox®, we do suggest rotating it every 6-12 months to maintain even wear.

Looking for a new mattress instead? Check out any of our six mattress options to meet your sleep needs.