Your mattress is not just a place where you rest; it's an essential component of your overall well-being.
Over time, your mattress will more than likely develop unsightly yellow stains which might startle you at first, but don't worry, it's completely normal.
In this blog post, we'll delve into the common causes of yellow stains on mattresses and provide you with effective methods to remove them, helping you restore your mattress to its former glory.
Are Yellow Stains On A Mattress Normal?
Before we do a deep dive into the causes of yellow stains in your mattress, just remember that these stains are perfectly normal. Almost everyone will experience this issue at some point in their lives so don't worry about having to throw it away just yet.
Blog Breakdown: Causes And Effective Methods For Removing Yellow Stains
What Causes Yellow Stains On Your Mattress?
Sweat and Body Oils: Throughout the night, our bodies release sweat and oils that can accumulate on the surface of our mattresses over time. These substances can cause yellow stains if left unaddressed.
Urine and Accidental Spills: Whether it's due to a child's bedwetting, a pet accident, or an unfortunate spill, urine and other liquids can seep into the mattress fabric, leading to stubborn yellow stains. We have a full guide on how to remove dried urine stains from your mattress to help you.
Dust Mites and Allergens: Dust mites are microscopic creatures that thrive in mattresses, feeding on dead skin cells. Their waste products contain enzymes that can discolour fabrics, resulting in yellow stains. Furthermore, allergens such as pollen and pet dander can also contribute to discoloration.
How To Remove Yellow Stains From Your Mattress
Pre-Cleaning Preparations
Vacuuming: Begin by thoroughly vacuuming your mattress to remove any loose dirt, dust, or debris on the surface. Use a brush attachment to ensure a comprehensive cleaning experience.
Consider investing in a quality mattress protector to prevent future stains and safeguard your mattress from spills, sweat, and allergens.
General Cleaning Methods
Baking Soda: Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the stained area. Let it sit for several hours or overnight to absorb odours and moisture. Vacuum the baking soda thoroughly to remove it from the mattress.
Enzyme Cleaner: Enzyme-based cleaners are highly effective in breaking down organic stains. Follow the product instructions and apply the cleaner directly to the stained area.
Allow it to sit for the recommended time and blot it gently with a clean cloth or sponge. Rinse the area with a damp cloth and let it air-dry.
Hydrogen Peroxide and Dish Soap: Mix a solution of 1 part hydrogen peroxide and 1 part dish soap. Lightly dampen a clean cloth or sponge with the solution and gently blot the stained area. Rinse the area with a damp cloth to remove any residue, and allow it to dry completely.
Targeted Stain Removal
Urine Stains: Mix equal parts of water and white vinegar. Apply the solution to the stained area using a cloth or sponge, and gently blot it. Rinse the area with a damp cloth and let it dry thoroughly. For persistent stains, use an enzyme cleaner specifically designed for urine stains.
Blood Stains: Create a paste using cold water and enzyme laundry detergent. Apply the paste to the stain and let it sit for 15-30 minutes. Gently blot the area with a clean cloth and rinse with cold water. Repeat the process if necessary.
We have created a full guide on how to remove period blood from your mattress which applies here. It will explain each step in detail.
Sweat stains: Mix equal parts of hydrogen peroxide and ammonia-free laundry detergent. Apply the solution to the stained area, gently rub it in, and let it sit for 15-30 minutes. Blot the area with a clean cloth or sponge and rinse with cold water.
Does Steam Cleaning Get Rid Of Yellow Stains On Your Mattress?
While steam cleaning alone won't be enough to break down a mattress with yellow stains, it will accelerate and strengthen the cleaning chemicals needed to get rid of those nasty stains.
Don't listen to anyone or anything written that says steam cleaning alone will be enough to remove yellow stains. We've tried multiple times with professional steam cleaners and had no luck without the assistance of an enzyme cleaner.
However, a good steam cleaner will bring results that are unmatched by just scrubbing so it is well worth getting one for yellow stains as well as pretty much every other stain.
How To Make My Mattress White Again The Best Way
The best way to get your yellow mattress white again is to steam clean those nasty stains away, combined with an enzyme cleaner to break down those body oils. You can also use baking soda afterward to help neutralize the colour further. If that doesn't work then hydrogen peroxide will help break down any biological fluids such as urine.
Why Is Your Husband's Side Of The Bed Yellow?
Sorry to tell you this way but men excrete more sweat and body oils when they sleep which will stain their side of the bed yellow more quickly than your own. Don't worry, it's not the stress of being married, it's just science!
Conclusion
Yellow stains on your mattress may seem daunting, but with the right knowledge and effective cleaning methods, you can successfully remove them and revive the appearance of your mattress.
Regular maintenance, including vacuuming and using a mattress protector, can prevent stains from occurring in the first place. Remember to follow the recommended cleaning procedures for different types of stains to achieve optimal results.
By taking care of your mattress, you'll ensure a clean and comfortable sleep environment for years to come.
Remember, prevention is key, so consider investing in a mattress protector and practicing good hygiene habits.
With the insights shared in this blog post, you're equipped with the knowledge to tackle yellow stains head-on and restore your mattress to its former glory.
Sleep well and wake up to a fresh, stain-free mattress every day!