Need help maintaining your memory foam mattress? This guide shows you exactly how to clean a memory foam mattress safely, so it stays fresh, hygienic, and supportive for longer.
Because memory foam is soft and highly absorbent, it needs a different cleaning approach than traditional mattresses. Using the wrong methods can damage the foam or cause lingering odours and moisture issues.
Let’s get into it:
Quick Summary: How to Clean Memory Foam
- Spot clean with mild detergent and water
- Deodorise with baking soda
- Never soak or machine wash memory foam
- For accidents, use vinegar and baking soda, then dry thoroughly
Can You Clean Memory Foam?
Yes, memory foam and hybrid mattresses can be cleaned, but it needs to be done carefully.
Its soft, porous nature means it shouldn’t be soaked, machine-washed, or treated with harsh chemicals.
Doing so could damage the foam’s structure or cause long-term issues like mould or mildew.
Key challenges when cleaning memory foam:
- It absorbs liquids quickly and dries slowly
- Excess water can break down its internal structure
- Harsh cleaners may damage the foam
- Mould and mildew can develop if not dried properly
The good news? With the right approach, you can safely clean and refresh memory foam without ruining it.
How to Clean a Memory Foam Mattress
Memory foam mattresses require special attention due to their size and the fact that they can't always be easily moved for drying.
Here's a comprehensive approach to cleaning a memory foam mattress:
- Strip the bed completely: Remove all bedding, mattress protectors, and toppers.
- Vacuum the mattress: Use an upholstery attachment to remove dust, hair, and debris, including seams and edges.
- Remove stains: Mix a small amount of mild detergent with lukewarm water. Lightly dab stained areas using a clean cloth.
- Deodorise with baking soda: Sprinkle a thin, even layer of baking soda across the entire mattress surface. For deeper odour removal, you can gently work the baking soda into the mattress with a soft brush.
- Let it sit: Allow the baking soda to sit for 6–8 hours to absorb moisture and odours.
- Vacuum again: Thoroughly vacuum all the baking soda from the mattress before use.
Important: Never use bleach, steam cleaners, or large amounts of water on memory foam to avoid damaging your mattress.
How to Spot Clean a Memory Foam Mattress
For routine maintenance and minor stains, follow these step-by-step spot cleaning instructions that work for most memory foam products.
What You'll Need
- Vacuum cleaner with upholstery attachment
- Mild liquid detergent or dish soap
- Clean white cloths or towels
- Spray bottle
- Lukewarm water
- Baking soda
- Vinegar
To spot clean specific areas, follow this process:
- Vacuum thoroughly: Vacuum all surfaces, including sides and seams, where dust and allergens tend to collect.
- Clean and Deodorise: Use a mild detergent mixed with lukewarm water and dab it onto the affected area.
- Blot, don’t scrub: Use a clean cloth to blot the affected area. Do not allow it to soak.
- Air dry: Thoroughly air dry your mattress before use.
How to Clean Memory Foam After Accidents (Urine, Vomit, or Spills)
Quick action is key to preventing long-term damage:
Step-by-Step Emergency Clean-Up
- Blot immediately – Use dry towels to absorb as much moisture as possible
- Neutralise odours – Mix equal parts white vinegar and cold water in a spray bottle and lightly mist the affected spot
- Blot again – Press firmly with a clean towel
- Apply baking soda – Cover the area and leave it for 8–10 hours
- Vacuum thoroughly – Remove all traces of baking soda once dry
- Air dry – Ensure the mattress is 100% dry before putting sheets back on
If the foam is heavily saturated or smells linger, consider using an enzymatic cleaner or replacing the mattress.
Cleaning Memory Foam Pillows, Toppers, and Accessories
To clean smaller memory foam items, follow these steps:
Memory Foam Pillows
Always check the care label first. Some newer memory foam pillows have removable, machine-washable covers.
If the foam itself isn’t labelled as washable, spot clean only and allow to air dry fully.
Memory Foam Toppers
- Remove the topper and lay it flat on a clean surface
- Spot clean both sides using the same method as a mattress
- Dry thoroughly - reposition every few hours to allow airflow
Because toppers are thick, drying can take time. Never rush the process.
Can You Deep Clean Memory Foam?
Not in the traditional sense.
Memory foam should never be soaked, steam cleaned, or pressure cleaned. Instead, rely on:
- Targeted spot cleaning
- Full-surface deodorising with baking soda
Deep water cleaning can damage the foam’s internal structure and lead to long-term issues.
Deep Cleaning Alternatives
- Professional cleaning services: Some specialised cleaning services offer dry cleaning methods for memory foam.
- Fabric-safe disinfectant sprays – ideal for occasional sanitising, especially during illness
Always test new products on a small, hidden area first.
Tips for Protecting Your Memory Foam Mattress
The best way to clean a memory foam mattress is to prevent any significant spills or damage.
You can do it in various ways, including:
- Use a waterproof mattress protector to prevent sweat, spills, and allergens
- Rotate your mattress every 3–6 months to even out wear
- Air out your mattress by stripping it a few times a year in a well-ventilated room
- Vacuum monthly to remove dust and debris from the surface
High-quality memory foam mattresses, such as those from eze™ Mattress, are designed to perform best when paired with proper care and protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can memory foam be washed?
No, avoid machine washing or soaking. Stick to spot cleaning and air drying.
Is memory foam ruined if it gets wet?
Light moisture is fine if dried quickly. Deep soaking or leaving the mattress wet can cause permanent damage.
How do I remove odours from memory foam?
Spray lightly with a 50/50 white vinegar and water mix, then cover with baking soda. Let it sit for 8 hours or more, then vacuum.
How do I clean urine from a memory foam topper?
Blot immediately, use vinegar spray, blot again, then apply baking soda. Vacuum once fully dry. Enzymatic cleaners may help with older stains.
What not to use on memory foam?
Avoid bleach, ammonia, steam, hot water, hair dryers, or any harsh cleaning agents that could degrade the foam’s structure.
