Wet mattresses are not only a headache, they can also be a breeding ground for mold and mildew! However, there is no need to worry. You can easily dry your mattress with a few simple steps, no matter what makes it wet. Take advantage of direct sunlight and air circulation to dry the mattress as quickly as possible. Then, attach a waterproof upholstery so that if the mattress gets wet again, you can simply change the upholstery and wash it in the washing machine.
Step
Method 1 of 2: Removing the Liquid
Step 1. Dry the wet area with a dry towel or cloth
Immediately dry up spills or liquids as they occur by pressing a clean dry towel against the mattress to absorb the liquid. Change towels when they are wet. Try to absorb as much liquid as possible.
Step 2. Clean the stain
If your mattress is wet from internal fluids such as urine or blood, you will need to use an enzyme cleaner. Other stains can be cleaned with a mixture of 2 parts hydrogen peroxide and 1 part liquid dish soap. Scrub the stain remover on the mattress with a toothbrush, then wipe again after 5 minutes with a cool, damp cloth.
Step 3. Dry the small wet area with a hairdryer
If the mattress is only wet from a small amount of liquid, such as a spilled glass of water, you can dry it quickly with a hairdryer. Aim the dryer at the wet area and use a "warm" instead of "hot" setting. For best results, turn the hair dryer around.
Step 4. Use a wet/dry vacuum to dry the remaining liquid
Some parts of the mattress can get wet, for example when rainwater enters through the window. Turn on the wet/dry vacuum, and point the suction funnel at the wet part of the mattress in a long, regular motion to suck up all the liquid.
Previously, first clean the vacuum cleaner funnel. You certainly don't want a vacuum cleaner that has been sitting in the corner of the garage until it is filled with cobwebs, touching the mattress. All you have to do is wipe the inside and outside of the vacuum cleaner's funnel with an antibacterial tissue and let it dry
Step 5. Press clean cat litter on the mattress to absorb the liquid
If your mattress is moved during a heavy rain, for example, it will definitely get wet. Sprinkle clean cat litter on the wet part of the mattress. Then, cover the sand with a towel and gently press the sand on the mattress. Clean the sand afterwards with a wet/dry vacuum cleaner.
If the mattress is still wet, sprinkle some more clean cat litter and let it sit for 1-2 hours. Then, suck it with a vacuum cleaner
Step 6. If possible, dry the mattress in the sun
Once you've drained as much liquid as possible, take the mattress outdoors and place it in direct sunlight. Choose a place that is hottest and gets the most sunlight. Be sure to spread a used plastic or blanket under the mattress so it doesn't get dirty.
Sunlight can also kill bacteria on the mattress
Step 7. Try to have plenty of air circulation if you dry the mattress indoors
Open as many windows as possible to allow air to move around the mattress. If both sides of the mattress are wet, straighten it or rest it on a firm surface to allow air to flow freely around it. Turn on a fan or a dehumidifier, depending on what you have. Point the fan at the mattress to increase air circulation.
Step 8. Be prepared to wait a few hours
Unfortunately, time is key in drying a mattress. If the mattress is soaking wet, for example due to a leaky ceiling, it's best to prepare to sleep elsewhere for the night as it may take up to 24 hours for the mattress to dry completely. Installing sheets and blankets while the mattress is still wet will trigger the growth of mold and mildew that are harmful to health.
Method 2 of 2: Extending Mattress Life
Step 1. Sprinkle baking soda on the mattress
Regular baking soda will absorb any remaining moisture, as well as unpleasant odors from the mattress. Lightly sprinkle the entire surface of the mattress with baking soda. Make sure the baking soda is evenly distributed over the entire surface of the mattress.
Step 2. Vacuum with a vacuum cleaner after at least 30 minutes
If you are in a hurry, wait about 30 minutes before cleaning the baking soda with a vacuum cleaner. If you have more time, you can leave the baking soda on the mattress for up to 24 hours. Use the vacuum cleaner's extra upholstery, if you can, to suck up all the baking soda when you're ready to do it.
Step 3. Repeat on the other side
If the mattress has two sides and you occasionally flip it over, be sure to repeat the same process on the other side. Sprinkle baking soda on the mattress and leave it for at least 30 minutes, then vacuum it with a vacuum cleaner that is equipped with a special vacuum cleaner upholstery.
Step 4. Air the mattress every few months
If you're going out for a few days, take this opportunity to aerate the mattress. Remove all sheets and upholstery and leave the mattress while you are away. The entry of sunlight into the room can kill bacteria on the mattress. So, if possible, leave the curtains open.
Step 5. Use a waterproof mattress upholstery
The waterproof upholstery will not only protect the mattress from spilled water from soaking in, but it can also prevent the mattress from absorbing sweat, dirt, oil, and germs! When the mattress is clean and dry again, cover it with a mattress protector that does not contain harmful chemicals, is hypoallergenic, and is waterproof to ensure you never have to worry about your mattress getting wet again.
Warning
- Mattresses that have sunk, for example during a flood, must be replaced or cleaned by a special cleaning service company for health reasons.
- Replace any mattresses that show signs of mold or mildew.
