A wet mattress is not only a headache, but also a potential breeding ground for mold! But don't panic. Regardless of the circumstances under which your mattress gets wet, there are some simple ways to dry it quickly. Dry the mattress as soon as possible by exposing it to direct sunlight or airing it. Then put a waterproof cover on the mattress so that next time you can simply throw the cover into the washing machine.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Removing moisture
Step 1. Blot the area with clean, dry towels
If anything leaks or spills onto the mattress, immediately press a clean, dry towel onto the mattress to absorb the liquid. When the towel gets wet, take another one. Try to remove as much liquid as possible.
Step 2. Treat the stains
If the mattress gets wet from bodily fluids such as urine or blood, use an enzymatic cleaner. Other stains can be treated with a solution of 2 parts hydrogen peroxide and 1 part liquid dishwashing liquid. Rub the cleaning solution with a toothbrush, and after 5 minutes, wipe it off with a cloth dampened in cool water.
Step 3. Dry small spots with a hair dryer
If only a little liquid gets on the mattress (for example, if you spill a glass of water), try drying it with a hairdryer. Point the hair dryer at a wet place and set it to warm (not hot) air. For best results, blow your hair dryer over the spot.
Step 4. Remove excess liquid with a wet vacuum cleaner
If, for example, rain fell through an open window, a larger part of the mattress could get wet. Turn on the vacuum cleaner and move the nozzle over wet areas of the mattress in long, even strokes to remove liquid.
Since the nozzle of a vacuum cleaner is usually not clean, be sure to disinfect it first. Wipe it inside and out with an antibacterial wipe, then let it dry
Step 5. Press the clean cat litter onto the mattress to absorb the liquid
If the mattress is outside during a rainstorm, it could get very wet. Spread clean kitty litter over wet areas of the mattress. Then cover the litter with a towel and press it firmly against the mattress. Remove the filler with a wet vacuum cleaner.
If the mattress is still wet, apply a fresh layer of filler and let sit for 1–2 hours. Then vacuum up the filler
Step 6. If possible, dry the wet mattress in direct sunlight
After removing as much liquid as possible, take the mattress outside and leave it in the sun. Pick the hottest, sunniest spot in your yard. Be sure to place plastic wrap or an old blanket under the mattress to keep it from getting dirty.
Sunlight is also beneficial in killing bacteria on the mattress
Step 7. When drying indoors, provide adequate air circulation
Open more windows to allow air to circulate freely around the mattress. If both sides are wet, place the mattress on its side or lean against a hard surface to allow air to blow from both sides. Use a fan and / or dehumidifier if you have one. Direct the fan towards the mattress to increase air circulation.
Step 8. Wait a few hours
Unfortunately, when it comes to drying the mattress, time is of the essence. If the mattress is very wet, for example due to a leak in the ceiling, prepare to sleep elsewhere, as it can take 24 hours to dry completely. Do not cover a wet mattress with sheets and bed linen, so as not to provoke the growth of harmful mold and mildew.
Method 2 of 2: Extending Mattress Life
Step 1. Sprinkle baking soda on the mattress
Plain baking soda will absorb the remaining moisture, and also remove unpleasant odors. Cover the entire mattress with a thin layer of baking soda. The layer should be even.
Step 2. Vacuum up the baking soda after about 30 minutes
If you're in a rush, wait at least 30 minutes before removing the baking soda. If you're in no rush, leave the baking soda on the mattress for 24 hours. Vacuum the mattress when you're ready. Use the upholstery attachment whenever possible.
Step 3. Repeat on the other side
If you have a double-sided mattress that you periodically turn over, be sure to repeat the procedure on the other side. Sprinkle baking soda over the mattress, wait at least 30 minutes, and then vacuum it with the upholstery attachment.
Step 4. Ventilate the mattress every few months
If you plan to leave for a few days, use this opportunity to ventilate the mattress. Remove all sheets and bedding and let the mattress air while you are away. Exposure to sunlight will kill bacteria on your mattress, so it's best to leave the curtains open.
Step 5. Place a waterproof protective cover over the mattress
The waterproof cover not only protects your mattress from spills, but also sweat, dirt, oil and germs! When the mattress is dry, cover it with a non-toxic, hypoallergenic, waterproof protective cover to forget about the problem of a wet mattress forever.
Warnings
- If the mattress is completely submerged in water (for example, during a flood), then for safety reasons it must be replaced or have it cleaned by a specialist.
- A mattress with traces of mold or mildew must be replaced immediately.