Ever walked into your bedroom, flopped onto your bed, and caught a whiff of something… off? You’re not imagining things. Over time, even the most high-end mattress foam can start to develop odors. And if you’ve tried flipping it, airing it out, or sprinkling baking soda, only to have the smell linger? You’re definitely not alone.
At Sweepy Maids, we’ve heard this question from so many Vancouver homeowners: “Is there really a way to get rid of that smell from my bed foam? Or am I stuck with it forever?”
Good news—you’re not stuck. Let’s break down why foam mattresses get smelly, what you can do about it yourself, and when it’s smart to bring in the pros.
Why Does Bed Foam Start to Smell?
Your mattress is one of the most-used pieces of furniture in your home. Think about it: you spend around a third of your life on it. Over time, all sorts of things build up inside that cozy foam layer:
Sweat
Skin oils
Dead skin cells
Dust mites
Pet hair (if your furry friends are bed buddies)
Occasional spills (morning coffee in bed, anyone?)
All of this seeps into the foam and creates the perfect environment for bacteria and odors to thrive. Unlike sheets or mattress covers, foam can’t just be tossed in the wash—which makes odor removal a little trickier.
DIY Methods to Freshen Up Your Bed Foam
Before you call in professional cleaning services, it’s always worth trying a few simple solutions at home. Here’s what we recommend:
1. Air It Out
Strip the bed and let your mattress air out for a full day—ideally near a window with lots of fresh air or outside on a dry, sunny day. Sunlight helps kill bacteria and reduces odors naturally.
2. Sprinkle Baking Soda
Baking soda is a classic for a reason. Sprinkle a generous layer over the entire surface of the mattress. Let it sit for at least an hour (longer is better), then vacuum it up slowly and thoroughly.
3. White Vinegar Spray
Lightly mist the surface with a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water. Be careful not to saturate the foam—you don’t want to add moisture deep into the mattress. Let it dry completely before making the bed.
4. Essential Oils (Optional)
If you like a fresh scent, add a few drops of lavender or eucalyptus oil to your baking soda or vinegar mix. Just go easy—you want subtle freshness, not overpowering perfume.
When DIY Just Isn’t Enough
Sometimes, no matter how hard you try, that odor just keeps coming back. This can happen if:
The smell is from deep within the foam
There’s been a liquid spill that soaked into the mattress
Mold or mildew has started to develop
It’s been months (or years) since your last deep clean
That’s when it’s time to consider professional cleaning services.
Why Hire Professional Cleaning Services for Your Mattress?
Here’s the thing about foam mattresses: they’re amazing for comfort, but not so easy to clean deeply without the right tools. At Sweepy Maids, we use specialized equipment and eco-friendly products designed to:
Extract moisture, dirt, and odor-causing bacteria
Sanitize without harsh chemicals
Extend the life of your mattress
Plus, a professional clean gets into places your vacuum and baking soda can’t reach—helping you truly banish that lingering smell.
What Does Professional Mattress Cleaning Involve?
When you book mattress cleaning with a trusted team like Sweepy Maids, here’s what typically happens:
Inspection: We assess the mattress, identify any stains or trouble spots, and choose the right cleaning method.
Deep Vacuuming: Industrial-strength vacuums remove dust, dander, and surface debris.
Steam Cleaning / Low-Moisture Extraction: We use heat and eco-friendly solutions to break down bacteria and odors. The process is designed to minimize moisture so your mattress dries faster.
Deodorizing: We finish with a safe, gentle deodorizer to leave your bed smelling fresh without heavy fragrances.
The best part? You can usually use your bed again the same day—no waiting around for days on end.
How Often Should You Clean Your Mattress?
If you want to keep odors, dust mites, and allergens at bay, aim for a professional mattress cleaning at least once a year. Have pets, kids, or allergies? Twice a year is even better.
And between cleanings? Keep up those DIY habits—air it out, vacuum regularly, and use a good-quality mattress protector to block sweat and spills.
The Sweepy Maids Difference
At Sweepy Maids, we’re not just about wiping down surfaces or vacuuming floors. We care about your home’s health. When it comes to mattresses, we know how important it is to get rid of odors, allergens, and dust—because you deserve to sleep in a space that’s as fresh as it is comfortable.
We’re proud to use eco-friendly, non-toxic products that are safe for kids, pets, and sensitive skin. And because we’re local, we understand the specific challenges of cleaning in Vancouver’s damp climate (hello, mold prevention!).
The Bottom Line
So, is there a way to remove smell from your bed foam? Absolutely. Start with simple at-home tricks—but don’t be afraid to call in professional cleaning services if the odor persists. Your mattress is an investment, and with a little care (and occasional help from the pros), it can stay fresh and comfortable for years.
If you’re ready to breathe easier and sleep better, give Sweepy Maids a call. We’ll help you say goodbye to mattress odors—so your bed smells as good as it feels.