Mattress stains are stubborn and annoying to remove, but keeping your sleeping area clean and hygienic is important for your skin and health. While vinegar and toothpaste are often recommended in DIY cleaning hacks, there’s another common bathroom essential that works even better.
This unexpected product can break down tough stains and leave your mattress looking fresh and clean, without harsh chemicals or complicated steps. Cleaning experts at Poppies revealed the simple solution and said, “Your bed is where you relax and sleep, so it’s not uncommon to encounter occasional stains on your mattress. One thing you might never have thought about before is the traditional foam shaving cream; it works.”
How to clean mattress stains
“All you need to do is apply. Simply apply the shaving cream to the stained area and gently work it into the mattress using a clean cloth or soft-bristled brush,” said the experts.
“Let it sit for 15 to 30 minutes to allow the shaving cream to penetrate and lift the stain. Then, wipe away the residue with a clean, damp cloth and allow the mattress to air dry.”
Opt for a foam-based shaving cream rather than a gel or products with added dye, reported bedding company Puffy.
Why shaving cream works
Shaving cream is effective at tackling stubborn protein-based stains such as blood, urine, and sweat. It contains enzymes that help break down these proteins, making the stains easier to lift from the mattress fabric.
According to Puffy, the bathroom essential also works to remove oil-based stains and regular dirt and grime.
Other methods
If you’re struggling with stubborn yellow stains, the experts at Sleep Foundation recommend making a natural solution by combining eight fluid ounces of cool water with eight fluid ounces of hydrogen peroxide.
Then add two to three drops of clear dish soap and pour the mixture into a spray bottle. For smaller stains, simply scale down the quantities while keeping the same proportions.
Before applying the solution, sprinkle baking soda over the stained area and let it sit for at least 15 minutes, then vacuum. Spray the cleaning solution over the yellow stains, just enough to dampen the surface, then cover the area with baking soda again.
Let it sit for several hours or overnight. Use a brush to work the baking soda into the stains. Finally, vacuum up the residue, wipe the mattress with a damp cloth, then follow with a dry cloth.