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How to care for and clean your mattress

Short answer: put a waterproof mattress protector on it, wash your sheets weekly, rotate the mattress head to foot every few months, give it a solid base, and spot-clean spills right away with mild soap and as little water as possible. A light vacuum and baking soda help with dust and odors. Good care helps your mattress last longer and stay comfortable.

Easy habits that keep a mattress clean, fresh, and supportive.

Published October 21, 2026 · By Brian Williams, owner of Elk Grove Mattress & Furniture

A mattress is something you use every night, so a little care goes a long way. These are the simple habits we share with customers at our Elk Grove store. If yours is already sagging or lumpy, read how long does a mattress last? to see if it's time for a new one.

Everyday care

  • Use a mattress protector. A waterproof protector keeps spills, sweat, and stains out of the mattress and goes right in the wash.
  • Wash sheets weekly. Clean bedding keeps sweat, oils, and dust from building up.
  • Rotate it. Turn the mattress head to foot every few months so it wears evenly. Many mattresses are one-sided, so check before you flip.
  • Give it a solid base. A proper foundation, box spring, or frame keeps it from sagging. See do I need a box spring?
  • Don't jump on it or sit on the same edge every day. Uneven pressure wears it out faster.

How to clean a mattress

  1. Strip the bed and wash everything, including the protector.
  2. Vacuum the surface with an upholstery attachment, including the seams.
  3. Spot-clean stains. Blot (don't rub) with a little mild soap and cold water. Use as little liquid as you can.
  4. Deodorize. Sprinkle baking soda, let it sit a few hours, then vacuum it up.
  5. Let it dry completely before making the bed. Open a window or run a fan.

Always check the care label first. Some materials shouldn't get wet, and harsh cleaners can damage fabric and foam.

When care isn't enough

If you wake up sore, see a dip in the middle, or feel springs, cleaning won't fix it. Brand new sets start at twin $100, full $140, queen $150, and king $275, and we deliver and set up same day or next day when possible. We can haul your old mattress away too. Not sure which type you want? Read mattress types explained. Questions about a warranty? See warranty and returns.

Questions people ask us

How often should I rotate my mattress?

A common rule of thumb is every few months, head to foot. Some mattresses are one-sided and should not be flipped, so check the label or ask us.

How do I get a stain out of a mattress?

Blot it right away, do not rub. Use a little mild soap and cold water on a cloth, use as little liquid as possible, and let it dry completely before you put sheets back on.

How do I get rid of mattress odors?

Sprinkle baking soda over the surface, let it sit for a few hours, then vacuum it up with an upholstery attachment. Airing out the room helps too.

Do I really need a mattress protector?

A waterproof protector is one of the easiest ways to keep spills, sweat, and stains out of the mattress, and it is much easier to wash than the mattress itself.

How long will my mattress last?

It depends on the mattress and how it is used. Good care helps it last longer. See our guide on how long a mattress lasts for the signs it is time for a new one.

Come see us

Call (916) 585-3613, text us, or stop by. Walk-ins and appointments are both welcome, and we speak Spanish. We're at 9055 Locust St Suite C10, Elk Grove, CA 95624 (see directions and contact info), open Monday to Friday 10 AM to 6 PM, Saturday 10 AM to 5 PM, and Sunday 1 PM to 5 PM.

Keep reading: How long does a mattress last? · Mattress types explained · Do I need a box spring? · Warranty and returns

Happy customer with a new mattress from our Elk Grove store

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