The best way to clean a mattress is to vacuum it. Mattresses should never be saturated with cleaning products or water, as mold may grow in the mattress layers if moisture remains in the mattress. Mattress pads are the best way to keep a mattress clean and free from stains and moisture that may come from spills and accidents.

A waterproof mattress pad saves you from ever having to try to clean a mattress that has stains and/or odors as it guards against total staining and offers maximum absorption to protect your mattress. Water-resistant mattress pads have been treated with a fabric protector and resist staining and saturation. Mattress pads are available in all sizes and thread counts and are machine washable and dryable.

A hand-held vacuum or a vacuum with attachments can be used to properly clean a mattress. Mattress manufacturers recommend vacuuming as the only method that should be used to clean a mattress. Both the mattress and box spring should be vacuumed at regular intervals.

Many mattress experts suggest turning and flipping a mattress every three months. It can be done while vacuuming to clean a mattress and helps keep even wear in the mattress. Flip the mattress over and turn it around so that where your head once rested, your feet will now be on that section of the mattress. Baking soda can be sprinkled on the mattress and box spring about 30 minutes before vacuuming to freshen the mattress.

If it ever becomes necessary to remove a small stain from a mattress, soapy water can be used very sparingly. Always use a very small amount of cold water and a mild detergent to clean a mattress. The area should be totally dry before putting sheets on, and ideally a mattress protector should be put on before clean sheets are added to the dried mattress. Dry cleaning solutions should not be used to clean a mattress as the harsh chemicals may ruin materials in the mattress.

If a mattress does become soaked, it may take many towels and/or paper towels to absorb all the moisture. Kitty litter can be used to absorb liquid from the mattress, but it may be messy to clean up. Powdered detergent or baking soda mixed with a tiny bit of cold water put onto the mattress with a brush or sponge is a good way to freshen and clean a mattress that has been urine-soaked. However, the mattress must first be almost nearly dry or the powders will form a messy paste.

Dry the mattress outdoors in the sunshine or with an electric fan so that it is completely dry before placing back on the bed. The drying process can take all day. It is a good idea to start early in the morning so that the mattress will be dry by the evening.