How to clean a mattress topper in 6 super easy steps

If you want to clean a mattress topper so it looks brand new again, now is the perfect time for a refresh. You probably loved it when you first bought it but now you’ve started to notice that it has a few stains here and there or that it doesn’t smell as fresh as it used to. 

Cleaning your mattress topper might feel a little overwhelming, especially if your topper isn’t machine washable. Don't worry — we're here to show you how to do just that in six simple steps.

Our guide to cleaning your fabulous mattress topper is so much simpler (and quicker) than you’d think. Let's get started and whip your bed into daisy-fresh shape.

How to clean a mattress topper

Good to know

Time: 1 hour (plus drying time)

Difficulty: Easy 

Helpful hints: Some mattress toppers can be machine washed, if this is the case for your topper, opt to throw it in your washing machine instead of using the method below.

Here’s what you’ll need

• White vinegar (this Heinz white vinegar available from Amazon is our go-to)
• A clean towel
• Baking soda (we always recommend this Arm & Hammer baking soda from Amazon)
• Vacuum (this Miele vacuum from Amazon has all the power you'll need)

How to clean a mattress topper

Step 1: Remove and wash your bedding 

First things first, start by removing and washing all of your bedding, from your sheets to your comforter to your pillowcases. That way, when you re-make your bed, all your bedding will be nice and fresh.

Step 2: Remove the topper from the mattress  

Next, carefully remove the mattress topper from the mattress, placing it on the floor with the topper side facing upwards. If your topper is too heavy to move on your own, make sure to ask a roommate, friend, or partner to help you. 

Step 3: Spray the mattress topper with white vinegar 

To clean the topper, fill a spray bottle with equal parts water and distilled white vinegar and spritz the entire topper with the solution. Leave it to sit for five minutes before carefully blotting the mattress topper with a clean towel. 

Step 4: Sprinkle baking soda over the mattress topper 

The next step is to coat the entire mattress topper in baking soda. Then, once the topper is completely coated, leave it to sit for a minimum of eight hours. The baking soda will help to remove any odors, freshening up the topper. 

Step 5: Vacuum up the baking soda

Once the baking soda has had time to chill and the topper smells fresh, the next step is to vacuum up the powder. 

Step 6: Replace the mattress topper and make the bed

That's it! You can now replace your mattress topper and make your bed. 

FAQs

In need of a new mattress? If you are a side sleeper, then opt for a soft-medium mattress, like this Brooklyn Bedding hybrid mattress. If you are a stomach sleeper you want to go for a firm or medium-firm mattress, like this Helix Midnight Luxe mattress.

Looking for a new bed frame too? We love this wooden bed frame from Zinus for a mid-century look. Finish off your bedroom set-up with more of our So Chic Awards winners like this Nolah mattress topper, Panda bamboo pillow, cotton sheets from The Company Store, and Mattress Firm's cloud comforter.