Mattresses are something we use every day, and over time, they can start to develop different kinds of smells. From off-gassing mattress chemical scent to everyday sweat, food spills, or even pet accidents, odours can easily get trapped inside the layers of fabric and foam.
Some common reasons your mattress might smell include:
- New mattress off-gassing from foam or packaging
- Sweat and body oils soaking into the fabric
- Spilled food or drinks leaving stains
- Pet hair, dander, or accidents
- Moisture leading to mold and mildew
These smells are not only unpleasant but can also affect your sleep quality and comfort. A fresh and clean mattress is important because it:
- Creates a healthier sleep environment
- Keeps away allergens and bacteria
- Helps you feel more relaxed and sleep better
With the right care and simple cleaning steps, you can remove unwanted odours and keep your mattress fresh for years.
Common Reasons Why Mattresses Smell
- New Mattress Smell (Off-Gassing)
When you buy a new mattress, you might notice a strong chemical-like smell. This is called off-gassing, which happens when foams, adhesives, or packaging release trapped gases. The good news is that this smell usually fades within a few days if you air out your mattress properly. - Sweat and Body Oils
Every night, our body naturally releases sweat and oils. Over time, these get absorbed into the mattress fabric and foam. This can create an unpleasant odour, especially if the mattress isn’t cleaned or protected. Using a mattress protector and washing bedding regularly can reduce this issue. - Spills and Food/Drink
Eating or drinking on the bed might feel cozy, but spills from coffee, juice, or snacks can seep into the mattress. Even if you clean the surface, leftover moisture and crumbs can cause odours later. Spot cleaning right away helps prevent stubborn smells. - Pets
If you allow pets on the bed, their fur, dander, or little accidents can leave lingering smells. While cuddling with pets is comforting, using a washable mattress cover can make cleaning much easier. - Mold and Mildew
Moisture is one of the biggest enemies of a mattress. If your room is damp or if liquid spills aren’t dried properly, mold and mildew can grow inside the mattress, causing a musty odour. Sunlight and good ventilation help keep this problem away. - Dust and Allergens
Over time, dust, pollen, and other allergens can build up inside a mattress. This not only creates a stale smell but can also trigger allergies. Regular vacuuming keeps your mattress fresh and healthier to sleep on.
Keeping your mattress clean and fresh is easier than it sounds, and solving these odour problems will make your sleep more comfortable and healthier.
| Odour Source | Why It Happens | Quick Fix | Prevention |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Mattress (Off-Gassing) | Foams/adhesives release trapped VOCs after unboxing. | Air out 24–72 hours near open windows; remove plastic promptly. | Unbox in a ventilated room; use a breathable base. |
| Sweat & Body Oils | Moisture and oils absorb into fabric and foam over time. | Vacuum; sprinkle baking soda 4–8 hrs, then vacuum again. | Use a waterproof protector; wash bedding weekly. |
| Food/Drink Spills | Liquids seep below the surface, leaving residue and smell. | Blot; spot clean with mild detergent or 1:1 vinegar solution; air-dry fully. | Avoid eating in bed; clean spills immediately; keep a protector on. |
| Pets (Fur, Dander, Accidents) | Organic matter and moisture linger in upper layers. | Enzyme cleaner for accidents; vacuum; wash removable covers. | Use washable covers/blankets; groom pets; protector on at all times. |
| Moisture, Mold & Mildew | High humidity or dampness allows microbial growth. | Sunlight exposure; dehumidify; if mold persists, replace the mattress. | Ventilate room; keep RH ~40–50%; ensure spills dry completely. |
| Dust & Allergens | Particle build-up creates a stale smell and triggers allergies. | HEPA vacuum; air out; optional baking soda refresh. | Vacuum monthly; hypoallergenic encasement; wash bedding hot. |
How to Remove Mattress Odours (Step-by-Step)
- Air It Out
Sometimes the simplest solution works best. If your mattress smells, start by airing it out. Place it in a well-ventilated room or near an open window. Fresh air helps release trapped odours and makes your mattress feel lighter and cleaner. - Vacuuming
A regular vacuum session does wonders. Use the upholstery attachment to gently vacuum your mattress. This removes dust, allergens, crumbs, and tiny dirt particles that may be causing bad smells. Think of it as giving your mattress a fresh start. - Baking Soda Treatment
Baking soda is one of the easiest and most natural ways to fight odours. Sprinkle it evenly over the mattress surface and let it sit for a few hours (or even overnight). Then vacuum it up. It absorbs smells and leaves your mattress fresher without any chemicals. - Essential Oils
For a pleasant touch, add a few drops of essential oils like lavender, eucalyptus, or tea tree to your baking soda before sprinkling. This adds a gentle, refreshing fragrance that can also help you relax and sleep better. - Spot Cleaning
For stains or strong odours, mix a little mild detergent or white vinegar with water and gently dab the area. Always use a clean cloth and avoid soaking the mattress. Quick spot cleaning prevents smells from settling deep inside. - Sunlight Exposure
If possible, place your mattress in direct sunlight for a few hours. Sunlight naturally kills bacteria and mold while helping to dry out any hidden moisture. Plus, nothing beats that fresh sun-dried smell. - Mattress Protectors
Prevention is key! Using a washable, waterproof mattress protector shields your mattress from sweat, spills, and dust. It makes future cleaning much easier and keeps odours away for longer.
When to Replace Instead of Clean
Sometimes, no matter how much you clean, a mattress just can’t be saved. Here are the signs it’s time to replace instead of refresh:
- Persistent Mold or Mildew
If mold keeps coming back even after cleaning, it’s best to replace the mattress. Mold is harmful to your health and spreads quickly. - Strong Odours That Don’t Fade
When deep cleaning, baking soda, and sunlight don’t work anymore, the smell may be too deep in the layers to fix. - Sagging or Poor Support
If your mattress has lost its shape and no longer supports your body, it can lead to back pain and restless nights. - Health and Comfort Concerns
Allergies, breathing issues, or constant discomfort are strong reasons to switch to a new mattress.
Preventing Future Odours
The best way to enjoy a fresh and clean mattress is to prevent odours before they even start. With a few simple habits, you can keep your mattress smelling good and lasting longer.
- Use Waterproof and Washable Covers
A good quality mattress protector acts like a shield against sweat, spills, and pet accidents. Since it’s washable, you can keep it fresh easily. - Wash Bedding Regularly
Changing and washing your sheets, pillowcases, and blankets often prevents sweat, oils, and dust from building up. Fresh bedding also makes your sleep more comfortable. - Keep the Room Well-Ventilated
A well-ventilated room helps reduce humidity and moisture, which are the main causes of mold and mildew. Open windows or use a fan to keep the air flowing. - Avoid Eating or Drinking in Bed
It may feel cozy, but food and drinks can easily spill and leave stains that cause bad smells. Keeping meals off the bed saves you extra cleaning later. - Regularly Vacuum and Air Out the Mattress
Light vacuuming and occasional airing out of your mattress prevent dust, allergens, and trapped odours from taking over.
A little care goes a long way these small steps will keep your mattress fresh, healthy, and ready for many nights of restful sleep.
Conclusion
A fresh and clean mattress is more than just about smell it’s about your health, comfort, and quality of sleep. Odours can build up from sweat, spills, pets, or even new mattress off-gassing, but the good news is they can be managed with simple care.
By airing, vacuuming, using baking soda, and protecting your mattress, you can easily keep it fresh and inviting. Prevention is even better, so small habits like washing bedding and using covers make a big difference. Take these easy steps and enjoy healthier, fresher sleep every night.
FAQs
That smell is called “off-gassing.” It happens when foam or packaging materials release trapped gases. The smell is temporary and usually fades within a few days if you air out your mattress.
Yes. Baking soda is a natural deodorizer. It absorbs odours without leaving harmful chemicals behind. Just sprinkle it on, leave it for a few hours, and vacuum it up.
A light vacuum every month and a deep clean every 6 months is a good habit. Also, wash your bedding weekly and use a protector to keep your mattress fresh.
Yes, pet fur, dander, or little accidents can cause lingering smells. If you share your bed with pets, use a washable protector and clean more often.
If your mattress has sagging, mold, or odours that never go away even after deep cleaning, it’s time to replace it. A new mattress will give you healthier and more comfortable sleep.
I’m Zainab, and I write to help people choose the right mattresses. I share clear, useful information about everything from comfort to materials, so you can pick the one that’s best for you.
