How to Get Glue Out of a Mattress and Bedding

Finding glue on your mattress or bedding can turn a peaceful night into a sticky situation. Whether your kids got carried away with a craft project or you accidentally spilled adhesive while doing repairs, glue stains can be frustrating to deal with.

The good news is that you can remove most glue stains from your bedding and mattress with the right techniques and some patience. Quick action is important because the longer glue sits on fabric, the harder it becomes to remove.

Save $500 On Any Mattress

Plus free shipping

Get $500 OFF Mattresses

Before tackling any glue removal, it’s essential to ensure proper ventilation in your bedroom and wear gloves to protect your hands from harsh cleaning agents. Some adhesives can release strong fumes, so opening windows and using fans will help keep you safe while working.

Most importantly, always test your cleaning method on a small, hidden area first to avoid damaging your mattress or bedding materials. Then, follow our step-by-step guide to safely remove glue and restore your mattress and bedding to their original condition.

Getting Started

A messy glue situation on your mattress or bedding doesn’t have to be a permanent problem. With the right approach and quick action, you can effectively remove glue and prevent lasting damage to your bedroom items.

Common Causes of Glue on Mattresses and Bedding

Craft projects gone wrong often lead to glue spills on bedding and mattresses, especially when kids get creative with school projects on their beds. Hot glue from DIY decorations, super glue from quick repairs, and craft glue from art projects are the most common culprits found on mattresses.

Sometimes, manufacturing defects in mattresses can cause adhesive seepage through the fabric layers. Moving day mishaps also frequently result in glue stains when packing tape or shipping labels come into contact with bedding. Storage mistakes, like placing adhesive items directly on beds, can lead to unexpected glue transfer.

Professional cleaning products with adhesive components might occasionally leave residue on mattresses and bedding. Even everyday items like sticker residue from price tags or temporary labels can create stubborn glue spots on new bedding items.

Why Quick Action Matters

Acting fast when you discover glue on your mattress or bedding can mean the difference between an easy cleanup and a permanent stain.

Fresh glue remains more pliable and responsive to removal techniques, while dried adhesive can bond firmly with fabric fibers, making it much harder to remove.

The longer glue sits on fabric, the deeper it can penetrate into the material, potentially reaching inner mattress layers or permanently bonding with delicate bedding fibers.

Heat from regular use can cause the adhesive to cure and set more quickly, making immediate action crucial for successful removal.

Many types of glue become water-resistant over time, limiting your cleaning options if you wait too long to address the problem.

Quick response also prevents the glue from collecting dust and debris, which can make the stain more noticeable and harder to clean.

Most adhesives start to chemically bond with materials within 24 hours, so addressing the issue promptly gives you the best chance of complete removal.

Some glues can even begin to deteriorate fabric if left untreated, leading to permanent damage or weakening of the material.

Safety Considerations Before Starting

Removing Glue

When dealing with glue on your mattress, starting with the gentlest methods and gradually moving to stronger solutions helps protect your mattress material. Understanding different removal techniques lets you choose the most effective approach for your specific situation.

Dry Removal Methods

Starting with dry removal techniques can prevent spreading the glue and minimize damage to your mattress fabric. Use a plastic scraper or old credit card to gently lift dried glue from the surface, working from the outside edges toward the center to prevent spreading.

The ice method works particularly well for soft or sticky adhesives. Simply place ice cubes in a sealed plastic bag and hold it against the glue spot for 5-10 minutes until the adhesive hardens.

Once hardened, gently pick away the brittle glue pieces using your fingernail or plastic scraper. For larger areas, try using a commercial freeze spray designed for adhesive removal, following the same hardening principle as ice.

Take care not to scrape too aggressively, as this can damage mattress fibers or push the glue deeper into the fabric.

If dealing with raised glue spots, you can try gently rolling them off with a clean rubber eraser. Some glues become powdery when dry and can be carefully brushed away with a soft-bristled brush. After scraping, use a lint roller or tape to pick up any remaining loose particles.

Liquid-based Solutions

When dry methods aren’t enough, liquid solutions can help dissolve stubborn glue residue. Mix a solution of warm water and mild dish soap, using just enough soap to create light suds without soaking the mattress. Apply the soapy mixture sparingly using a clean white cloth, dabbing rather than rubbing to prevent spreading the adhesive.

Commercial adhesive removers designed specifically for fabric and upholstery provide stronger cleaning power. Always choose products labeled safe for mattress use.

Work in small sections and avoid oversaturating the mattress, as excess moisture can lead to mold or mildew. Gently blot the area with clean, dry towels between applications to remove dissolved adhesive and excess moisture.

For particularly stubborn spots, try using rubbing alcohol or mineral spirits on a clean cloth, but test carefully first as these can damage some mattress materials. After using any liquid solution, set up fans to ensure thorough drying of the treated area.

Remember to rotate your cleaning cloths frequently to avoid redistributing dissolved glue back onto clean areas.

Natural Cleaning Methods

Natural solutions offer a safer, eco-friendly approach to glue removal without harsh chemicals. Create a vinegar solution by mixing equal parts white vinegar and warm water in a spray bottle, then lightly mist the affected area.

The acidic properties of vinegar can help break down many types of adhesives while being gentle on most fabrics.

Mix baking soda with just enough water to form a thick paste, then gently work it into the glue spot using circular motions with a soft cloth. Let the baking soda paste sit for 15-20 minutes to help absorb and lift the adhesive.

For extra cleaning power, combine vinegar and baking soda to create a fizzing action that helps lift stubborn glue. Use lemon juice as a natural alternative to vinegar, but be cautious as it may lighten some fabrics.

Essential oils like tea tree or eucalyptus can be added to your natural cleaning solutions for their dissolving properties and fresh scent. After applying natural cleaners, always blot the area thoroughly with clean, damp cloths to remove all residue.

Allow treated spots to air dry completely, using fans if needed to prevent moisture buildup in your mattress.

Cleaning Glue

Removing glue from bedding requires different techniques than mattress cleaning since these items can often be washed. The right approach depends on your bedding material and the type of glue you’re dealing with.

Pre-Treatment Steps

Starting with proper pre-treatment significantly increases your chances of successful glue removal from bedding items. Check the laundry care label on your bedding first to understand fabric content and washing restrictions before applying any cleaning solutions.

Gently scrape off as much dried glue as possible using a plastic scraper or the edge of a credit card, being careful not to damage the fabric fibers.

Apply a pre-treatment solution specifically designed for adhesive removal to the affected area, working it into the fabric gently with your fingers or a soft brush. For water-soluble glues, create a paste with liquid laundry detergent and water, applying it directly to the stained area.

Let pre-treatment solutions sit for 15-20 minutes to allow them to penetrate and break down the adhesive.

Test any pre-treatment product on a hidden area first to ensure it won’t cause discoloration or fabric damage. For delicate fabrics like silk or wool, use specialized pre-treatment products designed for these materials.

If dealing with hot glue, freeze the spot with ice before attempting to remove it, making it easier to chip away without damaging the fabric.

Machine Washing Techniques

Machine washing glue-stained bedding requires specific techniques to prevent spreading the adhesive or damaging your washer. Always wash glue-stained items separately from other laundry to prevent transferring adhesive residue.

Use the hottest water temperature safe for your fabric type, as heat helps break down many adhesives more effectively.

Add an extra rinse cycle to ensure all cleaning solutions and dissolved glue are completely removed from the fabric. Avoid overcrowding the washer to allow plenty of movement and thorough cleaning of the affected areas.

Use a heavy-duty liquid detergent rather than powder, as it better penetrates and removes adhesive residue. Consider adding a scoop of oxygen-based booster to your wash for extra cleaning power on tough glue stains.

Check items carefully before putting them in the dryer, as heat can set any remaining glue permanently. If possible, air dry items to inspect for remaining residue before exposing them to high dryer heat. Run an empty wash cycle after cleaning glue-stained items to remove any adhesive residue from your washing machine.

Hand Washing Delicate Items

Hand washing gives you more control when dealing with delicate bedding items or stubborn glue spots. Fill a clean sink or basin with lukewarm water and add a gentle detergent designed for delicate fabrics. Gently submerge the stained item, focusing extra attention on glue-affected areas by carefully working the cleaning solution into the adhesive with your fingers.

Use soft, circular motions to work on glue spots, being careful not to scrub too vigorously and damage the fabric. For items that can’t be fully submerged, use a clean white cloth dampened with the cleaning solution to spot clean the affected areas.

Rinse thoroughly with clean water, paying special attention to areas where cleaning solutions were applied. Press excess water out gently. Never wring or twist delicate fabrics.

Silk and wool items should be rolled in clean, dry towels to remove excess moisture before air drying. Position delicate items flat to dry, reshaping them as needed to maintain their original form.

Consider using a specialized fabric brush to restore the texture of napped fabrics after they’re completely dry.

Prevention and Protection

Preventing glue accidents and protecting your bedding is much easier than dealing with cleanup afterward. Learning proper preventive measures can save you time, money, and frustration in the long run.

Mattress Protectors

Investing in quality mattress protection provides a crucial barrier against glue accidents and other spills. Choose waterproof mattress protectors that completely encase your mattress, including the sides and bottom, for maximum protection against accidents.

Look for protectors with multiple layers—a waterproof barrier sandwiched between soft, quiet fabric layers provides both protection and comfort.

Consider mattress covers with stain-resistant treatments that make cleanup easier if accidents occur. Check your protector monthly for signs of wear or damage that might compromise its protective abilities.

Wash and dry your mattress cover according to manufacturer instructions to maintain its protective properties.

Keep a spare mattress protector on hand so you can immediately replace one that needs washing. Some premium protectors offer specific chemical resistance, which can be valuable if you frequently work with adhesives nearby.

For extra protection, layer a washable mattress pad over your waterproof protector to create an additional barrier.

Safe Craft Practices Near Beds

Creating a safe crafting environment helps prevent glue accidents from happening in the first place. Set up a dedicated craft area away from beds and bedding, using a table or desk with proper protection underneath. Otherwise, you might need to consult one of these guides:

• How to Get Paint Out of a Mattress or Bedding
• How to Remove Ink Stains from a Mattress
• How to Get Highlighter Out of a Mattress or Bedding

Store all adhesives and craft supplies in a separate room or sealed container away from bedroom areas. When crafting is necessary near beds, cover the entire bed surface with a thick plastic drop cloth or old shower curtain.

Keep glue bottles and containers in sturdy holders or cups to prevent tipping. Always close glue containers immediately after use and store them upright in a secure location. Use precision tip applicators or smaller glue containers to reduce the risk of large spills.

Consider using temporary adhesives or glue dots when working near bedding for easier cleanup if accidents occur. Train children about safe glue handling and supervise their craft activities near beds. Keep cleaning supplies readily available in your craft area for immediate response to accidents.

Quick Response Tips for Future Incidents

Being prepared for glue accidents can significantly reduce their impact on your bedding and mattress. Create an “adhesive emergency kit” with basic supplies like plastic scrapers, ice packs, and appropriate cleaning solutions. Post a list of quick-response steps in your craft area or bedroom for easy reference during accidents.

Take photos of care labels on your bedding and mattress, storing them on your phone for quick access to cleaning instructions. Act immediately when spills occur. Set a timer to remind yourself to check on any cleaning solutions you apply.

Keep contact information for professional cleaners and your mattress manufacturer easily accessible. Learn to identify different types of adhesives by sight and touch so you can respond appropriately to various spills.

Document successful cleaning methods for different types of glue on your specific bedding materials. Consider joining online communities or forums where you can quickly get advice for unusual adhesive situations. Train family members or roommates on basic glue removal techniques so anyone can respond quickly to accidents.

Special Considerations

When dealing with glue removal, certain materials and situations require extra care and specialized approaches. Understanding these special cases helps prevent damage while effectively removing adhesives.

Memory Foam Mattresses

Memory foam requires particularly gentle treatment due to its unique material properties and sensitivity to cleaning products. Avoid using excess liquid cleaners on memory foam, as the material can trap moisture and lead to mold growth deep within the layers.

Test cleaning solutions on a tiny, hidden area first, waiting 24 hours to check for any negative reactions like discoloration or texture changes.

Use cleaning products specifically formulated for memory foam, avoiding harsh chemicals that could break down the foam’s structure. Work with small sections at a time, using light, circular motions to prevent pushing glue deeper into the foam’s open-cell structure.

Never scrub aggressively, as this can damage the memory foam’s surface and affect its pressure-relieving properties.

Allow treated areas to dry completely before using the mattress, using fans to promote air circulation but avoiding direct heat. Consider using enzymatic cleaners designed for memory foam when dealing with water-soluble glues.

If using commercial adhesive removers, choose oil-free options to prevent residue from remaining in the foam cells. After cleaning, inspect the area carefully for any changes in the foam’s response to pressure.

Antique or Valuable Bedding

Working with antique or valuable bedding requires extra precaution to preserve both material integrity and monetary value. Document the condition of the item thoroughly with photographs before attempting any cleaning process. Research the specific fabric type and age of the piece to understand its vulnerabilities and appropriate cleaning methods.

Consider consulting a textile conservator before attempting any glue removal on particularly valuable or historic items. Use only the gentlest cleaning methods first, such as careful dry removal or spot cleaning with distilled water.

Avoid modern cleaning products that might interact badly with aged fibers or original dyes. Test any cleaning solution on an inner seam or hidden area, waiting at least 24 hours to check for adverse reactions.

Handle delicate fabrics with clean, white cotton gloves to prevent oils from your hands affecting the cleaning process. Keep detailed records of all cleaning attempts and their results for future reference or insurance purposes.

If professional cleaning is needed, choose a specialist with experience in handling antique textiles.

Deep-Set Stains

Deep-set glue stains present unique challenges and often require multiple treatment approaches for successful removal. Begin by determining how deeply the adhesive has penetrated the fabric or mattress material through careful examination.

Create a treatment plan that gradually works from the surface inward, avoiding pushing the stain deeper into the material.

Use layered cleaning techniques, starting with the least invasive method and progressively moving to stronger solutions as needed. Consider using specialized deep-cleaning extractors that can pull dissolved adhesive out of deeper layers.

Allow plenty of drying time between treatments to accurately assess your progress and prevent moisture buildup. For mattresses with deep-set stains, consider calling the manufacturer for specific cleaning recommendations.

Document each cleaning attempt and its results to track what works and avoid repeating unsuccessful methods. Watch for signs of material degradation during repeated cleaning attempts and know when to stop to prevent damage.

Professional cleaning services might be necessary for stains that have set for several months or longer.

When to Seek Professional Help

Sometimes, glue removal becomes too challenging or risky for DIY solutions. Knowing when to call in professionals can save your mattress and bedding from permanent damage while potentially saving money in the long run.

Signs of Mattress Damage

Recognizing serious mattress damage helps you decide when professional intervention becomes necessary. Watch for visible tearing or separation of mattress layers when attempting glue removal, as this indicates structural compromise.

Strange odors developing after cleaning attempts might signal moisture damage or chemical reactions requiring expert attention. Notice if your mattress shows uneven surfaces or dips where cleaning was attempted, as this suggests internal material breakdown.

Changes in mattress firmness or support around the cleaned area often indicate damage to foam or internal components.

Pay attention to any allergic reactions or skin irritation after cleaning attempts, which might mean chemical residue needs professional extraction. Watch for yellowing or discoloration that spreads beyond the original stain area.

Types of Professional Services

Professional cleaning services offer various solutions for glue-damaged mattresses and bedding. Specialized mattress cleaning companies use industrial-grade extractors and eco-friendly solvents designed specifically for different mattress materials.

Upholstery cleaners often have experience with adhesive removal and can work on both mattresses and delicate bedding.

Some dry-cleaning services offer specialized stain removal for bedding items too delicate for standard washing. Mattress restoration specialists can repair internal damage caused by aggressive cleaning attempts, though this service typically costs more.

Professional textile conservators provide specialized services for antique or valuable bedding items requiring careful handling.

Cost Considerations

Professional cleaning services vary widely in price, but understanding typical costs helps with budgeting. Basic mattress cleaning services usually start around $100-200, while specialized adhesive removal might cost more depending on the severity. Get multiple quotes from different service providers, as prices can vary significantly for the same service.

Consider the replacement cost of your mattress or bedding when deciding whether professional cleaning is worth the investment. Some homeowner’s insurance policies might cover professional cleaning if the damage resulted from a covered event.

Ask about service guarantees or warranties before committing to professional treatment.

FAQs

Will using adhesive removers damage my mattress?

Commercial adhesive removers, when used correctly, are generally safe for most mattress materials. However, it’s crucial to always test the product on a small, hidden area of your mattress first and wait 24 hours to check for any adverse reactions.

Make sure to use the product in a well-ventilated room and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. For memory foam mattresses, stick to gentler solutions like dish soap and warm water, as harsh chemicals can break down the foam’s structure.

How long should I wait before treating a glue stain?

The sooner you address a glue stain, the better your chances of complete removal. Fresh glue is typically easier to remove than dried adhesive, so try to treat the spot within the first few hours if possible.

However, if you’re dealing with wet craft glue or super glue, wait about 15-20 minutes for it to partially dry, as completely wet glue can spread and create a bigger problem. If you discover dried glue, don’t panic! It’s still removable with the right techniques and a bit more patience.

Can I machine wash bedding with glue on it?

Never put bedding with wet glue into the washing machine, as the heat can set the adhesive and spread it to other areas. Start by removing as much of the glue as possible using ice or scraping methods before considering machine washing.

Pre-treat the affected area with appropriate adhesive removers or natural solutions and let them work for at least 15 minutes. Once you’ve removed most of the glue, you can machine wash the bedding using the warmest water temperature safe for the fabric.

What’s the best method for removing super glue from a mattress?

Dealing with super glue requires a careful, multi-step approach to prevent damage to your mattress. Start by applying ice to harden the glue, which makes it easier to scrape off the surface layer using a plastic scraper or old credit card.

Commercial acetone-based removers specifically designed for super glue can be effective, but they must be used sparingly and only after testing. Always work in small sections and avoid saturating the mattress with any liquid solution.

How can I prevent glue accidents from happening in the first place?

Protection is always easier than cleaning up a glue accident. Start by establishing a dedicated craft area away from beds and bedding, and always use a thick, protective covering when crafting near bedroom furniture.

Keep your mattress protected with a quality waterproof mattress cover that can be easily removed and cleaned. Consider storing adhesives in a secure container away from the bedroom area to prevent accidental spills.

What should I do if the glue has soaked deep into the mattress?

Deep-set glue stains require patience and possibly professional intervention. Begin by blotting the area with a commercial adhesive remover appropriate for your mattress type, working from the outside of the stain toward the center.

Use a fan to thoroughly dry each layer as you work deeper into the mattress. If you notice any mold, unusual odors, or deterioration of the mattress material, consult a professional cleaning service as continued moisture can lead to bigger problems.

Is it worth calling a professional cleaner for glue removal?

Professional cleaning services can be a worthwhile investment, especially for expensive mattresses or when dealing with large amounts of adhesive. Professional cleaners have access to specialized products and equipment that can remove stubborn glue without damaging your mattress.

They also understand how different mattress materials react to various cleaning solutions and can choose the safest, most effective method. While it may cost more upfront, professional cleaning can often save money in the long run by preventing permanent damage to your mattress.

Conclusion

Removing glue from your mattress and bedding doesn’t have to be a permanent problem. With the right approach and quick action, you can successfully clean most adhesive messes without damaging your bedding. Remember to always test any cleaning solution on a small, hidden area first to prevent damage to your mattress or bedding materials.

Keep essential supplies like adhesive remover, white vinegar, and clean cloths on hand for quick response to future incidents. While many glue problems can be solved at home, don’t hesitate to contact a professional cleaner if you’re dealing with valuable items or particularly stubborn adhesives.

Protecting your mattress with a quality cover can prevent future problems and extend the life of your bedding. By following these cleaning methods and prevention tips, you can maintain a clean, comfortable sleeping space and handle any future glue accidents with confidence.