How to Sanitize a Crib Mattress

A baby will spend countless hours in the first few years of life playing and sleeping on his crib mattress. The mattress will be subject to spit-up and urine stains, which are not dangerous. What is potentially dangerous to a growing baby are the allergens and dust mites that also build up over time. Effectively cleaning and disinfecting a crib mattress will help ensure that your baby gets a healthy and restful night's sleep.

Vacuum with hose attachment
1/4 cup white vinegar
2 tbsp. liquid laundry soap
Soft cloth
1/4 cup rubbing alcohol
Plastic spray bottle
Baking soda

Instructions

- 1
  Remove the bedding and any mattress pads from the crib mattress.
- 2
  Lift the mattress out of the crib and set it onto a clean, dry surface.
- 3
  Vacuum off the entire surface of the mattress, both sides, with the hose attachment. This will remove any allergens and dust mites found on the surface of the mattress.
- 4
  Combine 1/4 cup of vinegar, 2 tbsp. liquid laundry soap and 2 cups of water.
- 5
  Dip the corner of a soft cloth into the mixture and work it into any noticeable stains. Only cleaning the noticeable stains will ensure that the mattress does not become too saturated with water, which could lead to mold growth.
- 6
  Pour 1/4 cup of rubbing alcohol and 2 cups of water into a plastic spray bottle.
- 7
  Spray the entire surface of the mattress with a light misting of the mixture. The rubbing alcohol will safely disinfect the mattress.
- 8
  Allow the mattress to dry completely. Place it in the sun to dry, if possible. This will speed up the drying process.
- 9
  Sprinkle one side of the mattress with baking soda. Allow the baking soda to sit for 30 seconds before vacuuming it up. Flip the mattress over and cover this side with a layer of baking soda, then vacuum. The baking soda will safely remove any lingering odors.
- 10
  Place the mattress back into the child's crib and cover it with a fresh sheet.

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