Removing mould from a mattress
Black specks on the mattress cover, a musty cellar smell in the bedroom or waking up with a blocked nose: mould in your bed is a nightmare. Not only does it look dirty, it's also a direct risk to your health. Mould spores can cause allergies, asthma and skin irritation.
The big question is: can you still save a mouldy mattress or does it have to go to the tip? In many cases, if you act quickly, the answer is yes. In this article you'll learn how to safely tackle removing mould from a mattress, how to stop it coming back and when, unfortunately, it really is the end of the road.
How does mould develop in a mattress?
Mould needs three things: moisture, warmth and darkness. Your bed is the ideal breeding ground.
- Sweat: You lose up to half a litre of moisture at night. If it can't escape, it soaks into the mattress.
- Poor ventilation: Mould on a mattress on the floor is common because the underside can't breathe. Condensation forms on the cold floor and soaks into the base of the mattress.
- Humidity: In a damp bedroom the bed doesn't dry out during the day, giving mould free rein.
When can a mattress still be saved?
Before you start cleaning, you need to inspect the damage.
- Can be saved: Small black mildew spots (specks) on the surface of the cover.
- Throw away: Large patches of mould, a penetrating musty smell that won't go away, or mould that's deep in the foam. If the mould is in the core, you'll never get it out and replacing the mattress is the only safe option for your health.
Step-by-step plan: removing mould from a mattress
Ready to take it on? Work safely. Mould spores fly through the air when you start scrubbing. Wear a face mask and gloves and preferably do this outside or with all the windows open.
Step 1: Vacuum (remove spores)
Start by thoroughly vacuuming both sides of the mattress. This removes loose spores. Throw away the vacuum bag straight afterwards or clean the dust container outside with hot water to prevent spreading them around the house.
Step 2: Clean with vinegar or alcohol
For removing mould from a mattress you need a product that kills the mould.
- Option A (Vinegar): Mix 1 part water with 1 part cleaning vinegar.
- Option B (Alcohol): Use isopropyl alcohol (70%) mixed with water. Dab the solution onto the spots (don't soak it!). Rub gently with a clean cloth or brush to remove the visible mould.
Step 3: The 'killer' heat (Steam Cleaner)
Mould spores survive a lot, but not extreme heat. A powerful steam cleaner, such as the Achaté Steam Cleaner PRO (Product of the Year 2025), is a real lifesaver here. The steam of over 100 degrees kills mould and bacteria on contact.
- How to use: Hover the steam head over the spots. The heat does the work.
- Please note: Steam is moisture. Because mould is caused by moisture, the next step is crucial.
Step 4: Dry in the sun
Sunlight is mould's biggest enemy. UV radiation bleaches the stains and kills any remaining spores. Stand the mattress upright in full sun on a dry, windy day. Leave it there for as long as possible. No sun? Use a hairdryer at a safe distance and make sure the room is ventilated as much as possible.
Prevention: stop the mould from coming back
You've removed the mould from your mattress, but how do you keep it away?
- Not on the floor: Never put a mattress directly on the floor. Always use a slatted base or box spring so air can flow underneath.
- Air it out: In the morning, fold back the duvet and open the window. Only make your bed once the mattress is dry.
- Mattress protector: Use a moisture-absorbing mattress protector and wash it weekly at 60 degrees.
- Moisture absorber: Is your bedroom damp? Place a dehumidifier.
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