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How to clean a mattress

We know we need the perfect mattress, pillow, duvet, bed linen, and bed frame to get our best night's sleep. But what about when it comes to cleaning the mattress? Are we doing everything to prolong its life and keep it clean? Let's find out how to clean a mattress, remove stains, and maintain it on a regular basis.

Simple routines | Cleaning | Find your mattress

a person sitting on top of a mattress with their hand placed on top.

Everyday routines 

You'll find deep cleaning your mattress will be a lot easier if you follow these simple routines:

  • Ventilate the room with the bed unmade for at least 10 minutes every morning, this is key to preventing bad smells and mites.
  • When you make the bed, give all the sheets a good shake, including the mattress protector so that the mattress can breathe.
  • Change the sheets every week, and take this opportunity to vacuum the mattress.
  • Keep the mattress protected with a breathable and washable cover. 

Seasonal routines

Mattresses tend to wear unevenly depending on a person's sleeping position, weight, or even their favourite spot! Do the following at least twice a year:

  • Rotate your mattress.

  • If your mattress can be flipped, flip it!

Some of our mattresses have built-in handles to help you get the job done.

Let your mattress live longer

The best way to keep your mattress cleaner for longer is to use mattress protectors that can be washed, when needed. You can get cushioned or waterproof protectors that wrap around the mattress like a fitted sheet, or others that just cover it. Mattress protectors will help you avoid cleaning your mattress more frequently.

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GRUSNARV Waterproof mattress protector with a split glass on top
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Easy steps to keep your mattress fresh and clean

 You should do this a few times a year.

Loosen

Start by shaking and hitting your mattress well. This will help loosen any dirt and debris.

Vacuum

Move on to the vacuum cleaner, but only if you have a handheld brush head attachment, use the lowest speed to avoid causing damage.  

Scrubb

If you don't have a vacuum cleaner with the special attachment, use a scrubbing brush, paying special attention to the dirtiest areas or the areas that usually have the most wear and tear, like where your feet go.

Go even deeper

To deep clean your mattress, we recommend trying a trick using bicarbonate of soda (baking soda); pour it on top (but not too much) of your mattress, and leave it for an hour so it can soak in. Then, use a scrubbing brush to get it all off, or use a vacuum cleaner to clear up the rest, if needed. This trick will help with getting rid of germs and some lingering odors.

a close up shot of a person unzipping a mattress cover off a foam mattress

Toss it in the wash!

But wait, there's more

It's always a good idea to refer to the handling and care instructions of your new IKEA mattress, as they will differ for different mattress types.

Love it or exchange it

‘Love it or exchange it’ is our IKEA 90-day trial policy for newly purchased mattresses. ​It takes time for you and your new mattress to get used to each other. That's why we give you 90 days to be sure you're compatible. So, after you’ve slept on it for a while, you can exchange your mattress if you find it too firm or too soft.

Learn more about the trial policy
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Learn more about the trial policy

How often should you replace your mattress?

No matter how well you take of your mattress, it's recommended that you change it every 10 years.  

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Find your perfect IKEA mattress

We know that it can be frustrating to choose a mattress. But don’t worry, there’s a simple cure. Let your body decide and find your match. And since bodies come in all shapes and sizes, so do our mattresses!

Find my match
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Discover your sleeping style

What's better than sinking into a comfy bed when you're totally worn out? A bed that’s just right, with the perfect mattress, pillow, and snug duvets, all set in a room with cozy lighting and the right temperature. The IKEA bedroom range is all about giving you that perfect, comfortable sleep you crave!

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