How to Get Smell Out of a Mattress Using DIY Mattress Spray

If you’ve got kids, you probably already know that mattress smells happen! Whether it’s from little ones having nighttime accidents, sweaty summer nights, spilled drinks, or even bringing home a secondhand mattress that needs freshening up, it’s something every family faces at some point.

The good news is, you don’t need harsh chemicals or expensive products to tackle bad smells. You can make your own natural mattress spray at home using simple, non toxic ingredients and we’ll show you exactly how!

Why Does My Mattress Smell?

Mattresses can trap all sorts of unpleasant odors over time, from body oils, dead skin cells, and sweat smells to urine stains, moisture buildup, and even cigarette smoke if you’ve picked up a used piece. Add in the fact that mattresses are a breeding ground for dust mites and odor-causing bacteria, and it’s no wonder we sometimes notice a musty or unpleasant smell coming from the mattress surface.

Without regular maintenance, your mattress (and even your mattress topper or mattress pads) can start to carry a persistent odor that lingers no matter how often you change your sheets. But don’t worry — there are effective methods you can use to bring back that pleasant scent and enjoy a good night’s sleep again!

Why Use a Non Toxic DIY Cleaning Recipe?

Many store-bought sprays contain harsh chemicals that can trigger skin irritation or release unnecessary toxins into your home. By making your own DIY mattress spray, you’re using natural disinfectants like witch hazel and distilled water that freshen your mattress without leaving behind a vinegar smell or chemical residue. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, eco-friendly, and safe for use around children and pets.

Natural Mattress Spray Instructions

​Here’s the best solution to tackle those unwanted smells and freshen up your entire bed with no professional cleaner or fancy steam cleaner needed! Follow along with the step by step instructions below to make your own bottle of this cleaning solution, 

Why These Supplies Work for the Natural Mattress Spray

The supplies for this DIY spray — alcohol free witch hazel, distilled water, and a glass bottle — are simple but powerful.

Witch hazel acts as a gentle natural disinfectant that helps break down odor-causing bacteria without introducing harsh chemicals or irritating scents. Using distilled water ensures you’re not adding minerals or impurities that could leave behind residue on your mattress surface.

A glass bottle is the best choice because it’s reusable, eco-friendly, and won’t react with essential oils or cleaning solutions like some plastics can.

Together, these ingredients create a natural deodorizer that’s safe, effective, and perfect for regular use to keep your bed smelling fresh and clean.

Other Effective Methods to Remove Mattress Odors

While the DIY spray is a great option, sometimes you need to go a little deeper, especially for older or stronger smells. Here are some additional diy methods and effective methods you can try for foul odors that have gone beyond the surface of the mattress. 

• Baking Soda: Sprinkle it over the mattress, let it sit for a few hours, then use the upholstery attachment on your vacuum cleaner to remove it.
• White Vinegar Solution: Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a clean spray bottle for stubborn urine stains or bad odors.
• Hydrogen Peroxide + Baking Soda: For deep-set smells or bodily fluids, make a paste and gently scrub the affected area with a clean cloth or paper towels.
• Enzyme Cleaners: A popular choice for organic matter and pet messes, these break down the source of the smell.
• Steam Cleaning or Airing Out: Use a steam cleaner on memory foam mattresses or take the mattress outside for a full drying process in the fresh air.

What About New Mattress Smell?

When you buy a new mattress, you might notice a strong new mattress smell — this comes from the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) used in the manufacturing process, especially in memory foam mattresses. While not usually harmful, the smell can be pretty unpleasant and might even cause headaches or irritation for sensitive people. The best way to get rid of it is to remove all packaging right away, place the mattress in a well-ventilated area, and let it air out for at least 24 to 48 hours. If you can, set it near an open window or even outside on a sunny day to increase air circulation. Adding a sprinkle of baking soda and then vacuuming it off can also help absorb any lingering odors before you put on your mattress protector and sheets.

Regular Cleaning Tips for a Fresh Mattress

For regular maintenance, wash your bedding and mattress cover often, vacuum the mattress surface, and give special attention to your bed frame and bed base. Using air purifiers in your bedroom can also help cut down on lingering musty odors and foul smells in the air.

More Natural Cleaning Recipes

Looking for more easy, natural cleaning solutions? We’ve got plenty of great options for every room in the house! Check out our other recipes and let us know which ones you love. It’s time to make a few simple non toxic swaps and our cleaning recipes will make it so easy.

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