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Last Updated January 29, 2025
There’s nothing worse than settling in for the night only to find your mattress is wetter than it has any right to be. Whether it’s from a leaky roof after a rainstorm, a spilled drink during a Netflix binge, or a pet who had a little accident, a soggy mattress can feel like a disaster. You’re probably asking yourself, “How am I supposed to dry this thing before it turns into a moldy mess?”
The happy news is that drying a wet mattress doesn’t have to be a nightmare. With the right steps, you can rescue your bed, avoid funky smells, and get back to a dry, restful night’s sleep. Below, we’ll walk you through how to dry a wet mattress after water damage so you can handle the problem in the best possible way.
Key Takeaways:
When you’re faced with a wet mattress, you need to act fast. The longer the moisture sits, the more likely mold and mildew will develop.
First, remove excess moisture, clean the mattress, and ensure it dries thoroughly. Each step will help prevent long-term damage to the mattress and maintain its comfort.
Let’s break it down into manageable steps to restore your mattress to its pre-damaged state.
Before starting the drying process, evaluate the situation carefully. The first thing you need to determine is the type of water your mattress has been exposed to.
Water damage can come from various sources: spilled drinks, roof leaks, plumbing issues, or even floods. The water itself can be categorized as clean, gray, or black, and this will affect how you proceed.
As soon as you’ve identified the water source, check the extent of the damage. Is the mattress lightly damp or fully soaked? This will help you decide on the best drying and cleaning approach.
Now that you’ve assessed the damage gather the supplies you’ll need to tackle the job. Having everything ready will make the process quicker and more effective.
Here’s a checklist of the essentials:
The first step in drying your mattress is removing as much excess water as possible. Begin by blotting the mattress with clean, dry towels.
Gently press down on the surface to soak up the moisture—don’t rub, as this can push water deeper into the mattress layers. If the mattress is heavily soaked, you may need to use a wet/dry vacuum.
Vacuuming is an effective way to extract water quickly and efficiently, especially for memory foam or thicker mattresses. Move the vacuum slowly over the surface of the mattress to ensure you get as much moisture out as possible. If you don’t have access to a wet/dry vacuum, continue with the towels until the surface feels less saturated.
After you’ve extracted as much water as possible, the mattress should feel damp but not dripping. This step is very important, as it removes a large amount of moisture that would otherwise slow down the drying process.
Once you’ve removed the excess moisture, it’s time to disinfect the mattress. This step is essential if the water is gray or black, but it’s also a good precautionary measure for clean water.
Use a fabric-safe disinfectant spray to sanitize the mattress, as this will kill bacteria and any potential allergens. Be sure to read the instructions on the product to ensure it’s safe for your specific type of mattress.
Spray the disinfectant evenly over the affected areas, and let it sit for several minutes. You can also use natural disinfectants like a mixture of water and white vinegar, which will help remove odors and sanitize the surface without the harsh chemicals.
Let the mattress dry naturally after applying the disinfectant, and give it time to fully air out before proceeding to the next step.
Now that you’ve disinfected the mattress, the most important part is ensuring it dries thoroughly. If possible, take the mattress outside and place it in direct sunlight.
Sunlight acts as a natural disinfectant and accelerates drying by promoting evaporation. However, avoid direct sunlight for mattresses with foam components like latex, as it can cause damage and reduce the lifespan of your latex mattress. If outdoor drying isn’t feasible or suitable, move the mattress to a well-ventilated room with large fans. Position the fans around the mattress to circulate air over both sides. A dehumidifier can also assist by extracting moisture from the air, further expediting the drying process.
Rotate the mattress every few hours to ensure even drying on both sides. Avoid leaving it in a damp, enclosed space where moisture can linger.
Drying may take several hours to a day, depending on the size of the mattress and the extent of the water damage. Patience is key here—rushing the drying process can lead to lingering moisture, which can cause mold and unpleasant smells.
After the mattress has dried for several hours, sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the affected areas.
Baking soda is an excellent natural deodorizer and moisture absorber. It will help to draw out any remaining moisture in the mattress and neutralize any lingering odors. Let the baking soda sit for at least 8–10 hours, or even overnight if possible. The longer you leave it on, the more effective it will be. Once the baking soda has absorbed the moisture, vacuum it up thoroughly. This will leave your mattress feeling fresh and odor-free.
You can repeat this step if the mattress still has a damp or musty smell.
Mold is a common issue with wet mattresses, especially if they aren’t dried thoroughly. After your mattress has dried and been deodorized, inspect it carefully for any signs of mold or mildew.
Look for black, green, or yellow spots on the surface or feel for rough patches in the fabric. Mold often produces a musty smell, so trust your nose. If you detect mold, it’s crucial to address it immediately.
A mattress with mold growth is not safe to sleep on, as it can cause respiratory issues and allergic reactions. In some cases, it may be necessary to discard the mattress and replace it. If the mold is minimal, you can try using a mold remover or vinegar solution to clean it, but keep in mind that mold can deeply penetrate the mattress layers, making it difficult to remove completely.
Following your mattress being completely dry, free of odors, and has been inspected for mold, it’s time to reassemble your bed. Place fresh bedding on the mattress and give it a test run. Lie down and check for any residual dampness or odd smells. If the mattress still feels damp or if there’s any sign of mold or mildew, you’ll need to repeat the drying process. However, if everything feels fresh and dry, you’re good to go! Enjoy your mattress once more, knowing you’ve saved it from water damage.
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, a mattress may be beyond saving. Call a professional cleaner if:
Professionals use industrial-grade equipment to deep-clean and dry mattresses, which may salvage your mattress when home methods fall short.
Once your mattress is dry and usable again, take steps to protect it from future water damage.
Use a Waterproof Mattress Protector: These covers provide a barrier against spills, leaks, and even dust mites, extending the life of your mattress.
Elevate Your Bed Frame: Ensure your mattress is elevated off the floor to reduce the risk of contact with water from minor floods or spills.
Inspect for Leaks: Regularly check your home for potential water hazards, such as leaky pipes, unsealed windows, or aging roofs.
Plan Ahead for Flooding: If you live in a flood-prone area, consider moving your mattress to higher ground or using waterproof covers during stormy seasons.
Drying a wet mattress is manageable if you act quickly and follow the proper steps. Removing excess moisture, disinfecting, and drying thoroughly are key to preventing mold and odors. However, always assess the severity of the damage. Mattresses exposed to black water or heavy mold growth are often unsafe to use and should be replaced.
By taking preventative measures, such as using a waterproof protector and addressing household leaks, you can minimize the risk of future water damage. A little preparedness goes a long way in keeping your mattress clean, dry, and comfortable for years to come.
The fastest way is to remove excess water with towels or a wet/dry vacuum. Then, place the mattress in direct sunlight or a well-ventilated area. Use fans and a dehumidifier to speed up drying, and rotate the mattress every few hours to ensure even drying.
A mattress is not necessarily ruined if it gets wet, but moisture can cause serious damage if not addressed quickly. Prolonged exposure to water can lead to mold, mildew, and an unpleasant odor. The materials inside the mattress, such as memory foam or natural fibers, may absorb the water, which could compromise their structure and comfort. It is important to dry the mattress thoroughly and properly to prevent long-term damage.
To absorb moisture from a very wet mattress, start by blotting the surface with clean towels to soak up as much water as possible. Then, sprinkle baking soda over the damp area to help absorb moisture and neutralize odors. Allow the mattress to sit for several hours before vacuuming it. Afterward, place the mattress in a well-ventilated area or outside in the sun to dry, using fans or a dehumidifier to speed up the process. Once it's dry, be sure to check for any signs of mold or mildew.
A water-damaged memory foam mattress can sometimes be saved if the damage isn't severe. If the mattress is slightly damp, allow it to dry thoroughly using fans or by air drying in a well-ventilated area. However, if mold, mildew, or significant damage has occurred, it may be difficult to restore the mattress to its original condition.
You can use a hair dryer on a latex mattress surface, but it should be done on a low heat setting to avoid damaging the latex. Be cautious with the heat, as excessive heat could cause the latex to break down or warp. For better results, use a fan or allow natural airflow to dry it.
If your mattress is extensively wet or you're concerned about mold and mildew, call a professional mattress cleaner. Professionals have the right tools, such as industrial air movers and dehumidifiers, to dry and sanitize the mattress safely.
Yes. To prevent mold and mildew, keep your mattress dry and well-ventilated. Air it out regularly, especially if you live in a humid environment. A breathable and moisture-wicking mattress protector is also recommended. If your mattress does get wet, act quickly to dry it thoroughly and ensure it’s kept in a dry, cool place.
A waterproof mattress cover provides a barrier against spills, moisture, and accidents, but it’s not foolproof. While it can protect your mattress from most liquids, excessive moisture or prolonged exposure can seep through seams or zippers, potentially leading to water damage. It's important to ensure the cover is in good condition and properly fitted.
A wet mattress may eventually dry on its own, but this process can be very slow and, if not properly ventilated, may result in mold or mildew growth. To speed up the drying process and prevent water damage, it’s best to actively dry the mattress by blotting excess moisture, using fans, placing it in a dry area, or using a dehumidifier.
Related blog posts:
1. Why Is My Mattress Wet Underneath?
2. How to Care for Your Latex Mattress?
3. How to Extend the Life of Your Mattress?
4. Is Your Mattress Making You Sick?
5. Can You Put a Mattress on the Floor?
Disclaimer: What is said in this article has been referenced from multiple sources and is intended only for educational and informational purposes. Please note that no content in this article is a substitute for professional advice from a qualified doctor or healthcare provider. Always consult an experienced doctor with any concerns you may have regarding a health condition or treatment, and never disregard any medical suggestions or delay in seeking treatment because of something you read here.
