Nick Favreau
Vomit stains are one of the nastiest things you could have to happen in your home. What’s even worse is when it’s on your mattress. The drying, the slippery goo can take months and sometimes years to get out.
This article will show you how to clean vomit stains from a mattress using vodka, baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and dishwashing liquid. It may be a little gross, but it’s worth it because you’ll sleep better knowing that your mattress is stain-free!
How To Clean Vomit From Mattress: 7 Proven Steps
Below you will get seven proven steps to clean vomit stains from your mattress using everyday household items.
Remove The Vomit
The first step is to remove as much of the vomit as possible. Use a rag to sop up the puddle of juice or throw up if you can reach it. If this doesn’t work, place a towel over the vomit and press down with your hands. The goal here is to absorb as much of it as possible. Repeat if necessary until you’ve gotten all of it up!
Wash The Bedding
Once you’ve gotten rid of as much of the throw-up as possible, wash the bedding! Turn your mattress over and use an old rag to get rid of any excess vomit you can’t see. After that, take a damp rag with some dishwashing liquid and blot out the rest of the stain.
Blot Any Remaining Liquid
After you’ve gotten as much of it up as possible, use a clean, white towel to blot the area dry. Don’t rub! Rubbing will push the vomit further into your mattress. Blot until it is completely dry. Let the bed air-dry for an hour or so, then move onto the next step.
Clean Up With Water And Detergent
If any solid pieces remain on your mattress, you can spray them with water and sprinkle them with dishwashing liquid using a spray bottle. This will help draw out any remaining vomit. It’s also a good idea to spray the same area several times with water and dishwashing liquid to prevent new stains from occurring.
Use Rubbing Alcohol To Disinfect
If you don’t see any solid pieces left on your mattress, use rubbing alcohol to disinfect the area. This will kill any remaining germs, bacteria, and viruses, including the one that caused the stain.
Remove Lasting Odors
Unfortunately, many smells linger after you’ve cleaned up the vomit, which can be very unpleasant for any family members who use your bed. If this is the case for you, take a few drops of perfume or scented oil and place them on your bed. If accidents are common, you may want to use more than one scent to cover up some odors.
Air Dry The Mattress
Even if the bed is dry, it’s best to let it air-dry to make sure all moisture evaporates. This can take a few hours, so don’t worry about leaving your mattress out on the side for a while.
How To Protect Your Mattress From Vomit
If you’ve gone through the trouble of cleaning up a dog or cat vomit stain, the chances are that you’ll want to ensure it doesn’t happen again. Here are a few tips on how to protect your mattress from throwing up.
Don’t Let Your Pets Sleep On Mattress
If your pet vomits on the bed during sleep time, you run the risk of being splashed with puke if your pet jumps around in protest. The best way to avoid this is to not let your pet sleep on your bed in the first place. If they have their bed (like most dogs and cats do), then they’re less likely to throw upon it.
Use Mattress Protector
Once you’ve gotten all of the vomit out and disinfected your mattress, it’s time to take care of any stains that are still lingering. If you don’t want to do this every time, consider using mattress protectors as insurance. The protectors can be found at most stores that sell mattresses. They work by absorbing any spills and then letting them air dry once it absorbs the moisture so that the stain doesn’t set in.
FAQ
How do I remove vomit from a mattress?
Remove any solid material with a spoon or similar utensil. Gently blot excess liquid with paper towels and make sure to avoid rubbing or pushing the vomit or liquid into the mattress.
What should I do to remove odors and discoloration from the mattress?
Use a mixture of one part white vinegar to two parts water. Gently apply the mixture to the affected area, allow it to soak for 15 minutes, then blot it up with a clean cloth. Repeat if necessary.
What should I do if there is a soil stain on the mattress?
Make a paste using two tablespoons of borax and one-quarter cup of water. Apply the paste to the stain and rub it in using a soft, circular motion. Allow the paste to sit for an hour, and then vacuum the area.
What should I use as a cleaning agent?
Use mild dish detergent and warm water to clean the vomit from the mattress.
Should I use bleach to clean the mattress?
No. Bleach can damage a mattress and is not recommended.
When should I replace my mattress if it has been contaminated with vomit?
If the mattress cannot be safely cleaned, it should be discarded.
What should I do if the vomit is dried?
Scrape off any excess with a dull knife. Mix one tablespoon of liquid dish soap, one tablespoon of white vinegar, and two cups of warm water. Apply the solution to the vomit and allow it to sit for 10 minutes. Blot with a clean cloth.
What kind of cleaning products should I use on the mattress?
Always use a mild, unscented detergent to clean a mattress. Avoid using any harsh chemicals or detergents that contain strong fragrances.
How often should I clean my mattress?
Clean your mattress every 3-6 months or according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Should I cover my mattress with a protective cover?
Yes. It is a good idea to use a mattress protector or cover.
How should I dry the mattress after cleaning it?
After cleaning the mattress, let it air dry or use a fan to help dry the mattress quickly.
Should I call a professional mattress cleaner?
If the stain or odor persists after attempting to clean it yourself, it is best to call a professional mattress cleaner.
