The Best Ways to Sterilize Pillowtop Mattresses

Pet Stains

• If you have accidental pet stains, use an absorbent cloth to absorb excess moisture as soon as possible after the accident. Spray the spot with a product designed to remove pet urine odors. Allow the product to soak into the mattress top. Blot with a clean absorbent cloth. Allow the surface to air dry or speed up the drying process by using a blow dryer.

Other Stains

• Clean other spills and stains using upholstery shampoo, a citrus-based cleaning product or a mattress cleaning product. Spray the product on the mattress top. Let it penetrate for five minutes. Blot the surface with a dry cloth until most moisture is absorbed. Common household products are also useful to sanitize the surface. One option is to use a solution of mild detergent and water. Sponge the soiled areas with the solution. Use clear water to remove soapy residue. Apply a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water to the mattress. Blot the moisture from the surface. Sprinkle baking soda over the mattress. Leave it on overnight. Vacuum the baking soda off in the morning to leave your mattress fresh and odor-free.

Steam Cleaning

• Clean your pillow top mattress with a hand-held steam cleaner to remove odors and stains. Using the upholstery nozzle, slowly steam the entire surface, giving extra attention to stains. Allow the mattress to air dry for several hours.

Regular Maintenance

• To keep your mattress in the best condition, follow the manufacturer's care instructions. Some pillow top mattress don't have to be flipped, but to lengthen the life of the mattress, most should be rotated every six months. Sprinkle baking soda over the surface after flipping or rotating. Let it stand for a few minutes before vacuuming to keep your mattress fresh. Use a mattress cover to protect your mattress from accidental spills and stains. Sanitize the cover in chlorine bleach each time you flip the mattress.