Can you steam clean mold out of a mattress?

Author: Oral Green MD  |  Last update: Wednesday, April 2, 2025

Steam cleaning is a great method of cleaning and extracting grime and bacteria on surfaces, but it is not enough to completely eradicate mould spores permanently.

Does steam kill mold on mattresses?

While it might remove surface stains, it has its own set of issues. Steam introduces moisture into the mattress, which can affect its longevity, and worse, it can create a breeding ground for mould among other issues. Mould not only damages your mattress but also exacerbates the problems you're trying to combat.

What is the best way to kill mold on a mattress?

The areas with mold growth must be cleaned with a product that will kill the spores. To kill mattress surface mold, mix a 50:50 solution of isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol and water.

Can a mattress with mold be saved?

Mold on a mattress is not salvageable. Please buy yourself a new mattress. Why should you wait for your landlord to buy yourself a mattress? You're allowed to buy one yourself for yourself that you'll keep if you move. Adding more water, vinegar or enzymes only adds more moisture to a mattress that has mold in it.

Is it safe to steam clean a mattress?

If the manufacturer's washing instructions approve using a steamer, you can steam clean the mattress to sanitize it. Otherwise, the high temperatures may damage the mattress. Use a temperature of at least 212°F or more to sanitize your mattress.

How to Get Rid of Mold On Your Mattress | Cleaning Tips

How long does it take for a mattress to dry after steam cleaning?

Leave the mattress for about four hours to dry. Steam cleaning a mattress does not leave behind water, but it's possible there's still a bit of moisture left deep inside from the initial spill. It's best if your mattress can dry in a warm spot out in the sun.

How to deep clean a mattress?

Another homemade cleaning agent is hydrogen peroxide that you can also mix with baking soda and a few drops of dish soap. It is useful for removing sweat, urine, or blood stains. The simplest way is to make a 50:50 solution with water and rub it in the mattress stains with a soft brush so as not to damage the fabric.

Can mold on a mattress make you sick?

In addition to physical signs, an infestation of mold in your bedding could cause sneezing and coughing fits at night due to its airborne spores. Allergy-like symptoms such as watery eyes and runny noses can also occur if you have been exposed to large amounts of mold spores for extended periods of time.

What's the difference between mold and mildew on a mattress?

Mildew refers to certain kinds of mold or fungus. The term mildew is often used generically to refer to mold growth, usually with a flat growth habit. Molds include all species of microscopic fungi that grow in the form of multicellular filaments, called hyphae.

How to get rid of mold in bedroom?

If you don't have a specific mould spray, bleach can be used instead. Mix a solution of one part bleach and four parts water. Take a cloth and wipe this solution across the wall, scrubbing gently until all the mould has been removed. You can then wipe the bleach away and dry the area using a separate cloth.

Will vinegar kill mold on a mattress?

To use this cleaner, mix equal parts of vinegar and baking soda in a bowl. Apply the mixture to the mouldy areas of the mattress and let it sit for a few minutes. Afterward, scrub the area gently with a brush and wipe it clean with a damp cloth.

What are the symptoms of mold exposure?

Although symptoms can vary, the most common symptoms seen in people exposed to mold indoors include:
  • Nasal and sinus congestion.
  • Eye irritation, such as itchy, red, watery eyes.
  • Wheezing and difficulty breathing.
  • Cough.
  • Throat irritation.
  • Skin irritation, such as a rash.
  • Headache.

What to put under a mattress to prevent mold?

Moisture Barriers

Using a moisture barrier like a polyethylene sheet can prevent mold from making your mattress its new home.

Will steam remove mold?

The high temperatures kill mold while the bristles of brush attachments can help remove it from cracks and hard to reach places. And because steam actually penetrates the pores of the surface you are cleaning, it cleans deep to kill and remove mold, instead of just bleaching it invisible.

Is there a way to get mold out of a mattress?

H3: Remove Mold with Rubbing Alcohol
  1. Vacuum all sides of your mattress.
  2. Mix equal parts rubbing alcohol and warm water.
  3. Saturate a rag in the rubbing alcohol solution and wring it out.
  4. Use the rag to scrub away all visible mold.
  5. Continue to scrub beyond the edges of the visible mold to kill any invisible spores.

How much to steam clean a mattress?

Professional mattress cleaning costs $130 on average. Depending on the number and size of mattresses being cleaned, it can range from $65 to $150.

Can a mattress be saved from mold?

To get rid of mold on a mattress, vacuum the mattress thoroughly, scrub away visible mold with a rubbing alcohol solution, and leave the mattress in direct sunshine. To prevent mold, use a dehumidifier in humid climates, keep your bedroom well-ventilated, and choose a mold-resistant mattress material.

How often should you replace your mattress?

Quality sleep is essential for our overall health, and a good mattress plays a crucial role in ensuring a good night's sleep. Experts recommend replacing your mattress every 6 to 8 years, but there are factors can influence this timeframe.

What is the best solution to clean mold?

Chemical or Natural Mold Cleaners
  • Use undiluted white vinegar on hard surfaces in kitchens and baths. Apply it directly to the mold.
  • Make a bleach solution to kill mold. Mix one cup of bleach in a gallon of water. ...
  • Mix a 50/50 solution of ammonia and water. Spray on the surface.

How can I tell if my mattress has mold?

The common, early signs of mattress mold are:
  1. A pungent, musty smell.
  2. New, unexplained stains.
  3. Multi-colored stains.
  4. Parasites and insects are attracted to your mattress.
  5. There is mold in other areas of your bedroom.

What happens when you sleep with mold?

Some molds can release mycotoxins which have been known to induce inflammation and irritation in the respiratory system. The consequences can be myriad, including nasal congestion, throat irritation, and a disconcerting struggle for breath.

Can I steam clean a mattress?

Steam cleaning – sweat, dirt and stains can easily penetrate beyond the top layer of your mattress so treat it to a steam clean every few months. Vacuum the mattress first, run the steam cleaner across the whole surface then allow to dry.

How to professionally clean a mattress at home?

How to Clean a Mattress in 9 Simple Steps
  1. Gather your mattress cleaning supplies. ...
  2. Strip the bed and wash all the bedding. ...
  3. Vacuum the mattress. ...
  4. Spot-clean your mattress with a stain remover. ...
  5. Sprinkle baking soda all over the entire mattress. ...
  6. Vacuum again. ...
  7. Flip the mattress. ...
  8. Protect the mattress.

How do you clean a badly soiled mattress?

Baking soda method
  1. Rinse a cloth with a cold water.
  2. Dab the stain with the cloth.
  3. Sprinkle baking soda over the stain.
  4. Leave it for 30 minutes.
  5. Rinse a cloth with cold water again.
  6. Dab the stain until it lifts.
  7. Repeat this process as many times as necessary and leave it to dry.

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