How to Get Vomit Out of Your Mattress [Stain & Smell Solutions]

Dr. Ifran Saddique

Waking up to or discovering a vomit catastrophe on your mattress is like finding yourself in a nightmare you can't wake up from. Whether it's a sick child, a pet accident, or a spill from a night of too much fun, the daunting task of how to get vomit out of your mattress can seem overwhelming. Fear not, though, for you've just stumbled upon a guide that will arm you with the necessary weapons to combat this unwelcome intruder. You’ll learn exactly how to get the throw-up smell out of a mattress, banishing both the stain and the odor back to the depths from whence they came.

How to Prepare For Getting Vomit Out of Your Mattress

Cleaning vomit from your mattress is not the most glamorous task, but we will make it as fast and painless as possible for you. Before you dive into the cleaning process, arm yourself with the right arsenal. You'll need paper towels, baking soda, white vinegar, rubbing alcohol, and dish soap. Don't forget a pair of gloves to protect your hands from the mess and the cleaning agents. A mask might not be a bad idea either unless you have an iron stomach. Now, for the moment of truth, hold your breath and let's get down to business. Oh, and remember to give that protector of yours some love too. Be sure you’re up to speed with our tips on how to clean a mattress protector. 

How to Clean Vomit From Your Mattress

Immediate Response

Step 1: Protect Yourself

First, gear up as if you're about to enter a biohazard zone because, in a way, you are. Gloves are a must, and a mask wouldn't hurt either. We need to act fast, especially if the vomit has completely soaked into the mattress.

Step 2: Remove the Bulk

Gently scoop up any solid matter with a spatula or a piece of cardboard. The key here is gentle; you're not icing a cake, but you're also not trying to rub the mess further into the mattress.

Step 3: Blot the Wet

Grab a stack of paper towels and blot—don't scrub—the affected area. Your goal is to lift as much liquid as possible without spreading the cheer.

Deep Cleaning

Step 4: Dish Soap to the Rescue

This is especially good if you’re wondering how to remove an old vomit stain from your mattress. Mix a teaspoon of dish soap with two cups of cold water. Dab a cloth into the solution and gently apply it to the stain. This is your first strike in the battle against the stain and smell.

Step 5: Baking Soda for the Win

Once the area is dry, cover it with a generous amount of baking soda. This isn't the time to be stingy; think of baking soda as your magic dust. The vomit odor removal from your mattress will be miraculous. Let it sit overnight to absorb odors and any residual moisture.

Step 6: Vacuum It Up

In the morning, arm yourself with a vacuum cleaner and thoroughly remove all the baking soda. This step is quite satisfying as you're literally sucking up the remnants of the disaster.

Sanitizing and Deodorizing

Step 7: White Vinegar Spray

Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle and lightly mist the area. Vinegar is a natural disinfectant and will help neutralize any lingering odors. Don't soak the mattress; a light mist will do.

Step 8: Air Dry and Repeat if Necessary

Let the mattress air dry completely. Those tricks you learned on how to dry a mattress effectively will come in super handy here. If the scent of victory isn't strong enough, and a hint of the battle remains, don't be afraid to repeat the vinegar spray or baking soda steps.

Special Care for Memory Foam

Step 9: Handling Memory Foam and Futon

If you're dealing with a memory foam mattress, you'll need to be extra careful not to soak it. If you’re looking for the best method of how to clean vomit from a memory foam mattress, dab gently and focus on using as little liquid as possible. Press firmly with clean towels after applying any liquid cleaner to absorb as much moisture as possible. Remember to get yourself up to speed with how to clean a futon mattress.

Final Touch

Step 10: Assess and Protect

Once your mattress is clean and dry, take a moment to assess the situation. If your mattress has seen better days, it might be time to invest in a waterproof mattress protector. This will make future clean-ups easier and protect your mattress from unwanted "guests."

How to Get Vomit Smell Out of Your Mattress

If you’re wondering how to get the vomit or puke smell out of your mattress, follow these quick and easy steps:

Step 1: Baking Soda Sprinkle

Generously sprinkle baking soda over the entire area where the vomit was. Baking soda is a natural odor absorber and will help pull the remaining smell out of the mattress.

Step 2: Let It Sit

Allow the baking soda to sit on the mattress for at least 8-10 hours, but overnight is ideal. This gives it ample time to absorb the vomit smell thoroughly.

Step 3: Vacuum Thoroughly

Using the upholstery attachment of your vacuum cleaner, thoroughly vacuum the baking soda off the mattress. Ensure you go over the area several times to remove all traces of baking soda and any lingering odors.

Step 4: White Vinegar Mist

In a spray bottle, mix a solution of one part white vinegar to two parts water and lightly mist the area previously affected by vomit. The acidity of the vinegar works as a natural disinfectant and odor neutralizer.

Step 5: Air Dry

Let the mattress air dry completely. Place the mattress in a well-ventilated area or near an open window if possible. The fresh air will help dissipate any remaining odors.

Step 6: Essential Oils (Optional)

For a final touch, you can lightly dab a cloth with essential oils (like lavender or eucalyptus) and gently pat the mattress area. This step is not about masking the odor but adding a fresh, clean scent to your sleep environment.

Tips on Keeping Your Mattress Fresh And Clean

• Invest in a quality mattress protector to shield your mattress from future accidents.
• Regularly vacuum your mattress to remove dust and allergens.
• Air dry your mattress in the sun every few months to naturally disinfect and deodorize it.
• Consider getting a dehumidifier for your bedroom to keep moisture levels low, reducing the risk of mold and mildew.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it! The question of how to clean vomit off a mattress has been finally answered. Navigating the aftermath of a vomit incident doesn't have to be a nightmare. With the right approach and a bit of elbow grease, you can restore your mattress to its former glory, ensuring a clean, fresh, and inviting sleep environment. Whether it's a simple spill or a more significant mess, these strategies will help you tackle the challenge head-on, leaving your mattress looking and smelling as good as new.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long will the vomit smell last?

The duration of the vomit smell can vary, but without proper cleaning, it can linger for days or even weeks. Immediate and thorough cleaning, followed by using baking soda and white vinegar, can thoroughly clean vomit from your mattress significantly faster.

Does dried vomit smell?

Yes, dried vomit can still emit a foul odor. The smell may not be as potent as fresh vomit, but it's still noticeable and unpleasant. Cleaning the area as soon as possible is recommended to prevent the smell from setting in.

Does vomit turn into mold?

If vomit is not properly cleaned and the area remains moist, it can indeed lead to mold growth. Ensuring the mattress is completely air-dry is essential to prevent mold and mildew from developing.

Can you get sick from breathing in the vomit smell?

Breathing in the vomit smell itself is unlikely to make you sick, but it can cause discomfort and nausea. Bacteria in vomit can pose health risks, so it's crucial to thoroughly clean and disinfect the area.

Is it better to clean vomit when it’s wet or dry?

It's generally better to clean vomit when it's wet to prevent the stain from setting and to make it easier to remove. Dried vomit requires more effort to clean and can leave a more lasting odor.