Sweat stains on a mattress are not only unsightly but can also contribute to unpleasant odours and an unhygienic sleep environment which can affect your overall sleep.
If you find yourself dealing with stubborn sweat stains on your mattress, worry not! In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through effective techniques and tips to remove sweat stains and restore your mattress to its pristine condition.
By following these steps, you can enjoy a fresh and clean mattress for a restful night's sleep.
What causes sweat stains on a mattress?
While the answer might seem obvious (and it is) there are also some hidden reasons. The main reason is that, well, you sweat during the night which over time finds it's way into the mattress. The reason that your mattress stains is that it is a highly absorbent material that is designed in such a way as to show contaminants inside it.
This is a good thing really. If you have hidden contaminants inside your mattress, knowing about it is the first step to fixing them.
Are All Sweat Stains Visible On Your Mattress?
Not all sweat stains are immediately visible when you look for them. At first glance, your mattress may seem clean but if you get closer and do a smell test, you may find that it stinks a bit. If that's the case then the most likely answer is a build up of sweat inside the fibres of your mattress.
What's The Difference Between Yellow & Brown Sweat Stains On A Mattress?
Brown stains are usually older sweat stains that have been left on the mattress for a long time. They may have also mixed with other contaminants to create a brown appearance. Yellow stains are much more common sweat stains is mattresses and generally come after a few months of regular sleeping and no cleaning.
Banishing Sweat: Removing Sweat Stains from a Mattress
Removing sweat stains from your mattress is basically a 2 step process. First, clean it with an enzyme cleaner, hydrogen peroxide or baking soda. Then to remove the odour use a mixture of baking soda and essential oils.
For a full guide on how to do this, read on:
Preparing For Cleaning Those Nasty Yellow Mattress Stains
Gather the Necessary Supplies Before tackling the sweat stains, gather the following supplies:
Upholstery cleaner or enzyme cleaner
Baking soda
Hydrogen peroxide
White vinegar
Clean cloths or paper towels
Spray bottle
Soft-bristled brush or sponge
Check the Manufacturer's Instructions Check the manufacturer's instructions for any specific cleaning recommendations or restrictions to ensure you don't damage the mattress.
Treating Sweat Stains
We've tried covering all bases here with our sweat stain removal process. Whatever method you choose, be sure to take into consideration what kind of material your mattress is made of.
Upholstery Cleaner or Enzyme Cleaner
Apply the cleaner to the sweat-stained areas and gently scrub using a soft-bristled brush or sponge.
Follow the instructions on the cleaner regarding the recommended dwell time and rinsing.
Baking Soda
Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the sweat-stained areas.
Gently rub the baking soda into the mattress using a soft brush or sponge.
Let it sit for several hours, preferably overnight, to absorb moisture and odors.
Vacuum the mattress thoroughly using the upholstery attachment to remove the baking soda residue.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Dilute hydrogen peroxide with water in a spray bottle in a 1:1 ratio.
Spray the solution directly onto the sweat stains.
Gently blot the area with a clean cloth or paper towel.
Repeat the process if necessary, but avoid saturating the mattress.
How To Get Rid Of Sweat Stain Odours On Your Mattress
Sweat stains are often accompanied by lingering odours. While not as bad as other biological stains such as milk, the odour is pretty pongy. Here are some methods to eliminate odours from your mattress:
Baking Soda and Essential Oils
Mix a cup of baking soda with a few drops of your preferred essential oil.
Sprinkle the mixture over the mattress, focusing on the areas with sweat stains.
Allow it to sit for a few hours or overnight to absorb odours.
Vacuum the mattress thoroughly to remove the baking soda and leave behind a fresh scent.
Activated Charcoal
Place activated charcoal briquettes or activated charcoal powder in a bowl or fabric pouch.
Position the bowl or pouch near the affected areas on the mattress.
Leave it for a few days to absorb lingering odours.
Preventive Measures
To minimize future sweat stains and odors, implement the following preventive measures:
Use a Mattress Protector: Invest in a waterproof and breathable mattress protector to shield your mattress from sweat, spills, and other stains. Ensure the protector fits securely and is machine washable.
Wash Bedding Regularly: Wash your bedding, including sheets, pillowcases, and mattress covers, regularly to maintain a clean and fresh sleep environment.
Maintain Good Ventilation: Ensure your bedroom has proper airflow and ventilation to minimize humidity and moisture build-up, which can contribute to sweat stains and odours.
Can All Sweat Stains Be Removed From A Mattress?
Unfortunately, sometimes a sweat stain has been on a mattress for so long that it cannot be removed. No matter how hard you try, the stain won't budge. That doesn't mean that your carpet is dirty, though. If you have used our methods for cleaning your mattress then it will be clean, even if a stain persists.
Conclusion
Sweat stains on a mattress are common but can be effectively dealt with using the right cleaning techniques and preventive measures.
By following the steps outlined in this comprehensive guide, you can successfully remove sweat stains and eliminate odours, leaving your mattress fresh and clean.
Remember to always check the manufacturer's instructions, perform spot tests, and be patient throughout the cleaning process.
With regular maintenance and care, you can enjoy a comfortable and hygienic sleep environment for years to come. Sleep tight!