How to Get Sweat Smell out of Your Mattress: 5 Ways to Restore Its Freshness

Our mattresses endure a lot – from the sweat and dead skin cells we shed during sleep to the accumulation of dust over time. The result? A mattress that not only affects our quality of sleep but can also pose health risks due to allergens and potential mold growth.

A fresh and odor-free mattress is essential for quality sleep and overall well-being. But our mattresses soak up sweat, dead skin cells, and dust, and despite regular bedding washes, body oil, bacteria, and allergens can still seep into the bed.

If not promptly addressed, these allergens pose health risks like breathing problems, and excess moisture might lead to harmful mold growth. If your bed smells off, it might be time to learn how to freshen up your mattress. Here are five simple tricks you can try.

A mattress with pillows and a blanket | Source: Pexels

How to Get Sweat Smell out of Your Mattress: 5 Ways

1. Vinegar Spray: A Natural Deodorizer

One effective and natural way to combat mattress odors is by using a vinegar spray. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle, then lightly mist your mattress, focusing on areas with noticeable smells.

Vinegar acts as a natural cleaner and organic deodorizer, neutralizing odors without resorting to harsh chemicals. Allow the mattress to air dry thoroughly, ensuring good ventilation to prevent mold growth.

Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle and spray it lightly on your mattress where it smells. | Source: Pexels

2. Baking Soda: The Time-Tested Odor Neutralizer

Baking soda is a household staple renowned for its odor-absorbing properties. Simply sprinkle a generous amount over your mattress and let it sit for up to 24 hours before vacuuming it off.

Baking soda not only neutralizes odors but also helps eliminate moisture, a common cause of lingering smells. For stubborn odors or stains, create a paste with baking soda, water, and a bit of laundry detergent. Apply it to the affected areas and let it sit for 30 minutes before wiping it away.

Create a paste with baking soda, water, and a bit of laundry detergent, and apply it to the affected spots. | Source: Pexels

3. Essential Oils: A Fragrant and Antimicrobial Solution

Step up your mattress deodorizing game by adding 15 to 20 drops of essential oils, such as lavender or eucalyptus, into your vinegar spray, baking soda, or water mixture. These essential oils not only mask odors but also come with antimicrobial properties that combat bacteria and fungi.

Before using the oils, make sure to dilute them to prevent overwhelming scents and potential respiratory problems, particularly for those with allergies or asthma. Besides eucalyptus and lavender, peppermint or lemon essential oils can also provide a calming aroma while refreshing your mattress.

Mix essential oil into your vinegar spray, baking soda, or water blend, then spray it on your mattress. | Source: Pexels

4. Cornstarch: Drying up Odor Culprits

Like baking soda, cornstarch acts as a powerful moisture absorber, tackling body oils and reducing the source of persistent odors. Simply sprinkle cornstarch evenly on the surface, applying a bit more on damp areas that may have developed unpleasant smells.

For a combined solution, mix cornstarch with baking soda to neutralize odors while absorbing moisture effectively. Leave it for around an hour, then vacuum it up. This dual-action approach ensures a fresh-smelling and dry mattress.

Combine cornstarch with baking soda to neutralize odors and leaving it for around an hour before vacuuming. | Source: Pexels

5. Laundry Detergent: Spot-Cleaning for Stains and Odors

While laundry detergent alone can't be used to clean the entire mattress due to moisture concerns, it can be effective for spot-cleaning stains and odors. Mix laundry detergent with baking soda to create a paste.

Mix laundry detergent and baking soda to make a paste and apply it to stains before wiping it away. | Source: Pexels | Source: Pexels

By incorporating one of these five effective solutions into your mattress maintenance routine, you can eliminate sweat smells, neutralize odors, and restore the freshness of your bed.

Trying out these hacks is not just about making your sleep spot more comfortable—it also helps your mattress last longer. Picture this: your nights, surrounded by the fresh and cozy scent of a well-cleaned bed.

For those looking for extra cleaning tips, especially for things like mirrors in your home, here are simple solutions to achieve a spotless shine.