Can you use a carpet cleaner on a mattress?

A mattress is one of the most used items in your home, and with time, it can accumulate dirt, sweat, dead skin cells, and allergens. When a stain or odor appears, it's tempting to grab your carpet cleaner for a quick fix. After all, it's designed for upholstery, right? While a carpet cleaner can be used in some situations, it's often not the best tool for the job and can even cause permanent damage to your mattress.

How carpet cleaners work on upholstery

Carpet cleaners, also known as extractors, work by spraying a hot water and detergent solution onto a surface and then immediately vacuuming it up. They are effective at penetrating and cleaning the fibers of carpets and some upholstery, like a couch. They are designed to lift and remove embedded dirt and stains.

Risks of using carpet cleaners on mattresses

While they might seem like a good idea, using a carpet cleaner on a mattress comes with significant risks.

• Excessive Moisture: The biggest risk is using too much water. Mattresses are thick and dense, and the high volume of water from a carpet cleaner can soak the internal layers. This can lead to mold and mildew growth, which is a major health hazard and can ruin your mattress.

• Damaging Materials: Some mattresses are made with memory foam or other specialized materials that can be damaged by the hot water and harsh detergents used in carpet cleaners. This can compromise the structural integrity and comfort of your mattress.

• Residue Buildup: The detergents in carpet cleaning solutions can leave a sticky residue behind. This residue not only attracts more dirt and grime but can also irritate your skin and impact the breathability of the mattress.

• Ineffective Stain Removal: For many common mattress stains, like those from bodily fluids, a carpet cleaner may not be enough. The stain can simply be pushed deeper into the mattress, making it even harder to remove later.

When it’s safe to use a carpet cleaner on a mattress

In a very limited number of cases, you can use a carpet cleaner on a mattress. If you have a mattress with a fabric-only, non-foam top layer and a minor surface stain, you can use the upholstery attachment with a specialized mattress cleaning solution. However, you must use a very light amount of water and ensure the mattress is completely dry before putting on linens.

Best alternatives for mattress cleaning

For most cleaning situations, there are much safer and more effective methods.

• Spot Cleaning: For small, specific stains, use a gentle spot cleaner made for upholstery. Apply a small amount, blot the stain with a clean cloth, and then let it air dry completely.

• Baking Soda and Vacuuming: This is the safest and most common way to freshen a mattress. Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the entire surface of the mattress. The baking soda will absorb moisture and odors. Let it sit for several hours (or even overnight) and then vacuum it up thoroughly using an upholstery attachment.

• Steam Cleaner: A dedicated steam cleaner with a low-moisture setting can be used to sanitize the surface of a mattress without soaking the inside. The high heat can kill dust mites and bacteria.

Pro tips for keeping mattresses fresh and clean

• Mattress Protector: The best way to protect your mattress from stains and spills is to use a high-quality, waterproof mattress protector.

• Wash Bedding Regularly: Wash your sheets and pillowcases weekly to remove sweat, oil, and dead skin cells.

• Rotate Your Mattress: Rotate your mattress every 3 to 6 months to ensure even wear and tear.

• Air Out Your Mattress: Every few months, strip your mattress completely and let it air out for a few hours.

A clean mattress is essential for a good night's sleep and overall health. While DIY methods can help, a professional cleaning service has the right tools and expertise to clean and sanitize your mattress without the risk of damage. Contact Sparkling Elite Cleaners today for a free consultation on our professional cleaning services.