If you’ve recently cleaned your mattress with bleach and now you’re wondering how to get rid of the bleach smell from your mattress, this quick and easy guide is here to help! We’ll provide you with some simple tips and tricks for removing the bleach smell from your mattress so that you can enjoy a fresh and clean sleeping experience.
Causes of Bleach Smell on Mattress
Bleach smell on mattress is most often caused by over-saturation of the fabric when cleaning. As bleach is a powerful chemical, it can easily penetrate the mattress and cause a strong smell. This can happen when the bleach is used too liberally and not fully washed off, or when the mattress is not thoroughly cleaned. Even the smallest amount of bleach can leave behind a strong odor, which can linger for days, weeks, and even months. Additionally, if the mattress is not allowed to dry fully before using it again, the smell can linger and get worse over time.
Natural Ways to Get Rid of Bleach Smell
Baking Soda
Baking soda is a great natural deodorizer. Sprinkle baking soda liberally over your mattress and let it sit overnight. In the morning, vacuum up the baking soda.
Vinegar
You can also use vinegar to help neutralize the smell of bleach. Create a mixture of 1/2 cup of vinegar and 1/2 cup of warm water. Spray the mixture onto your mattress and let it sit for 15 minutes before wiping it off with a damp cloth.
Essential Oils
If your mattress still smells of bleach, try using essential oils to mask the smell. Add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to a spray bottle filled with water and spritz it over the mattress. Allow it to air dry.
Charcoal
Another natural deodorizer is charcoal. Place a few pieces of charcoal in a bowl and place it on your mattress overnight. The charcoal will absorb the smell of bleach. In the morning, remove the charcoal and dispose of it.
Chemical Ways to Remove Bleach Smell
Chemical Cleaners
Using a chemical cleaner to remove the bleach smell from a mattress is the most common and effective method. Chemical cleaners are specially formulated to break down the chemical bonds of the bleach molecules, effectively neutralizing the smell. Be sure to read the instructions on the cleaner before applying it to the mattress. It’s also important to make sure the cleaner is safe for use on the mattress material.
Bleach
Bleach is an effective way to get rid of the bleach smell from a mattress. Simply mix a cup of bleach with a gallon of warm water and apply it to the mattress with a clean cloth. Allow the solution to sit on the mattress for 30 minutes before rinsing it off with cold water. Be sure to test a small area of the mattress first to make sure the bleach won’t damage the material. Once the mattress is dry, the bleach smell should be gone.
Other Tips to Get Rid of Bleach Smell
Air Out the Mattress
Open the windows and turn on the fan to let fresh air circulate around the mattress. This will help to dissipate any lingering bleach smell. To further speed up the process, place a fan near the mattress.
Use a Deodorizer
Sprinkle baking soda or commercial deodorizers on the mattress. The baking soda will help to absorb any odors, and the commercial deodorizers will help to neutralize the smell. Leave the baking soda or deodorizer on the mattress for a few hours, then vacuum it off. This will help to remove the bleach smell from the mattress.
How to Prevent the Smell of Bleach on Mattress
- Choose a Mild Detergent – Use a mild detergent when washing your mattress covers and sheets. If you must use bleach, dilute it with water to reduce the strength. Use a ventilated area when washing and drying the mattress.
- Vacuum the Mattress – Vacuum the mattress regularly to remove dust, dirt, and other particles that may cause odors. Vacuuming also helps to prevent dust mites from building up.
- Air Out the Mattress – Place your mattress near a window or outside to air out. This helps to get rid of the smell of bleach and other odors from the mattress.
- Cover the Mattress – Use a mattress cover to protect the mattress from dust and dirt. This will also help to prevent any odors from seeping into the mattress.
- Clean the Mattress Regularly – Clean your mattress regularly with a mild detergent and vacuum it regularly. This will help to prevent the build-up of dust, dirt, and odors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Potential Health Risks of Having a Mattress with a Bleach Smell?
Bleach can cause skin and respiratory irritation, and chronic exposure to bleach fumes can lead to serious health complications. Inhalation of bleach fumes can cause coughing, difficulty breathing, and may even trigger asthma attacks. It can also irritate the eyes and cause severe skin rashes and irritation. Long-term exposure to bleach can cause headaches, nausea, and difficulty concentrating.
Can I use a Mattress with a Bleach Smell if I am Pregnant or Have Young Children?
- Avoid using a mattress with a bleach smell if you are pregnant or have young children. The bleach smell indicates that the mattress is not safe for use as it may contain harmful chemicals that can be dangerous for pregnant women and young children.
- Ventilate the room. Before you attempt to get rid of the bleach smell, make sure the room is well ventilated.
- Wash the mattress. Washing the mattress with a mild detergent and cold water can help to get rid of the smell.
- Use a deodorizing spray. If washing the mattress does not work, you can try a deodorizing spray.
- Air out the mattress. Place the mattress outside in the sun to air out for several hours.
- Baking soda. Sprinkle baking soda over the mattress and leave it on overnight before vacuuming it off in the morning.
- Replace the mattress. If the bleach smell persists, the safest option is to replace the mattress.
How Long Does it Take to Get Rid of the Bleach Smell From My Mattress?
The length of time it takes to remove the bleach smell from your mattress depends on the intensity of the bleach used and the material of your mattress. Generally, it takes a few days for the smell to dissipate. To speed up the process, it is important to ventilate the room and use odor absorbing materials such as baking soda or activated charcoal. Additionally, washing the mattress cover with a mild detergent and leaving it in the sun to dry can help remove the smell quickly.
Are There Any Natural Methods to Get Rid of the Bleach Smell?
Baking Soda – Sprinkle baking soda on the mattress and allow it to sit for a few hours before vacuuming it up. Baking soda is a natural deodorizer and will help absorb the smell of bleach.
Vinegar – Create a solution of one part vinegar and two parts water and spray it onto the mattress. Allow it to sit for a few hours before wiping it off with a damp cloth.
Essential Oils – Add a few drops of essential oils to a spray bottle filled with water and spray it onto the mattress. Essential oils like lavender, lemongrass, or peppermint are known for their calming and fresh scent.
Charcoal – Place a few charcoal briquettes in an old sock and place it on the mattress. Charcoal is known for its ability to absorb odors and will help get rid of the bleach smell.
Is there anything else I should do to protect my mattress from the bleach smell in the future?
To prevent the bleach smell from returning, always use a mild detergent when washing your bedding and mattress cover, and rinse thoroughly. Additionally, avoid using bleach or any other harsh chemical cleaners on your mattress. Finally, ensure your mattress is properly aired out and dried before making the bed.
Conclusion
Removing the bleach smell from your mattress is possible with a few simple steps. Start by washing the mattress with a mild detergent and cold water. Then, use baking soda and white vinegar to neutralize the odor. Finally, air out the mattress in a well-ventilated area. With these tips, you can get rid of the bleach smell from your mattress quickly and easily.
