How To Dry a Mattress - The Smart and Simple Way

Having a dirty dripping mattress is the worst nightmare one can have. Whether you spilled some liquid on it, it got rained on, or the kids spoiled it, the topmost priority is to dry the mattress as soon as possible. Unfortunately, at times, drying becomes too tricky due to the thickness and porous nature of the material.

Everyone should have an idea regarding this essential technique. Though there are many ways to dry a mattress, you should always choose the easiest one. In this article, you will get to know about a detailed guide, including some bonus tips.

Exact Step-by-Step Guide

It is a commonly held fact that wet mattresses are pretty stubborn. Once they get wet, the only solution is to dry them completely (unless you have spare ones in the store). Enjoy the process, even if it turns a bit tiresome. The essential steps are as follows:

Step 1: Check the wet areas

Do not begin drying until you have identified the target spots. This step is of no use if the whole mattress is dripping. When you have checked for the intensity of dampness, take the mattress to a clean and dry area for further steps.

Pro tip - Use sandpaper to scan the whole mattress.

Step 2: Remove solid/semi-solid waste

If food items have made your mattress wet, use a duster to remove all that you can. Scrap off any thick residues using a wooden or metallic handle.

Pro tip - Place the mattress vertically inclined on a wall for better removal.

Step 3: Blotting using towels

Do not allow the water to seep in if possible. Towels can help remove water from the surface. Squeeze them and then use fresh ones. Make sure the towels do not smudge colors.

Pro tip - Use microfiber towels to limit the creation of fabric bubbles on the outer surface.

Step 4: Spread newspapers

This step can prove to be a game-changer. Put double sheets over all the wet areas and put paperweights on top of each sheet if the mattress has a zipper cover, stuff balls of newspaper from inside too.

Pro tip - Use cardboards beneath newspapers for extra dry areas.

Step 5: Use a hairdryer

Yes, your hairdryer is apt for drying a mattress as well. It cannot dry completely wet areas, but the surface can be dried quickly. Keep it at a distance while moving around the edges. Your dog’s dryer will do just as well.

Pro tip - Keep it at the highest blow intensity and lowest temperature for quick results.

Step 6: Sprinkle some baking soda

Baking soda absorbs a lot of moisture within seconds. Therefore, target the areas which could not be dried completely using the blow-drying methods.

Pro tip - Transfer the powder into a sprinkler before using it for a better drying experience.

Step 7: Vacuum cleaner for dripping areas

Even if the previous steps could not make any visible difference, use a vacuum cleaner. It can easily reach even the problematic corners. Move the cleaner in vertical motions.

Pro tip - Fit the broadest attachment for easy coverage and keep the intensity at medium.

Step 8: Place it in the sun

If ample sunlight is there, shift the mattress to an open area. Remove colored covers as they might fade. Sunlight acts as a natural disinfectant as well. Do not leave it for more than an hour.

Pro tip - Make sure the wetter side is facing the sun.

Step 9: Set fans all around

Dehumidifiers or heaters might also help. If they are unavailable, set up cross-ventilation in the room using table fans. If possible, install a fan on both sides.

Pro tip - Keep turning sides to remove all traces of moisture.

Step 10: Sanitize thoroughly

Spray an alcohol-based sanitizer all over the surface. This will aid in disinfecting the whole mattress. Do not use a water-based alternative as drying would be difficult.

Pro tip - End the process by spraying a sweet fragrance, not to alter the sleep cycle.

Step 11: Flip and repeat

You don't need to perform this step if your mattress is partially dry. Still, check the opposite side for any seepage. Try to work simultaneously for quicker drying.

Pro tip - Work on the four smaller edges alternately and clean the surrounding area before flipping.

Types of Mattresses

The amount of time taken in drying a mattress mainly depends on the type of the mattress, among other things. Have a look -

• Memory Foam Mattress
  Dries in: Four to six hours
  Reason: Three layers underneath the cover (comfort, transition, and support)
• Innerspring
  Dries in: Five to eight hours
  Reason: No foam provided despite a highly absorbent material
• Hybrid
  Dries in: Two to three hours
  Reason: Appropriate layering facilitates passage of air
• Latex
  Dries in: Approximately one and a half hours
  Reason: No absorbent material, only made up of spongy latex
• Waterbed
  Dries in: One to two hours
  Reason: Made up of easy-drying fibers (topmost layer)

Frequently Asked Questions

1) Is it impossible to dry a completely soaked mattress?

No, even though it might be time-consuming. The time depends on the intensity of dampness.

2) What happens if one sleeps on a mildly damp mattress?

Molds might develop, leading to allergies. Some people might catch a cold as well.

3) How to remove stains on a wet mattress?

Using liquid detergent and scrubber. Bleach can also be used for white covers.

4) What is the fastest method to dry a mattress?

Blow drying. Installing an electric heater also helps in drying up with the same intensity.

5) How to make a mattress waterproof?

By spreading plastic sheets on both sides. Waterproof covers are also available easily.

Concluding Remarks

An essential step in drying a mattress is staying patient. The water or liquid seeps deep inside at times, and you might get frustrated after some unsuccessful drying attempts. However, keep in mind that it is not impossible to dry a mattress.

Want some good news? The outer atmosphere will help you out in the drying process - thank evaporation. Make sure you work smart, not hard. We hope this detailed guide helped you dry your mattress effectively.