How to Get Juice Stains Out of a Mattress or Bedding

Last Updated On January 8th, 2025
How to Get Juice Stains Out of a Mattress or Bedding

Key Takeaways

  • You Need to Act Fast: The first 30 minutes gives you the best chance of removing the stain completely. The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to clean because the juice’s dyes and sugars bond with the fabric.
  • Never Rub or Scrub: This actually makes things worse by pushing the stain deeper into the fabric. Instead, gently blot the stain with clean white towels or paper towels, working from the outside edges toward the middle to avoid spreading it further.
  • Use Cold Water: Hot water will “cook” the sugars in the juice and make the stain permanent. Also, using a waterproof mattress protector can prevent future stains and save you from having to deal with cleanup at all.

Spilling juice on your mattress or bedding can feel like a disaster, but don’t panic! You can tackle these stubborn stains effectively with the right approach. Whether you’re dealing with grape juice on your sheets or orange juice on your mattress, time is your biggest ally in preventing permanent damage.

When people face the challenge of removing juice stains from their bedding, countless often make the mistake of using the wrong cleaning methods that can set the stain permanently. Your mattress is a significant investment, and protecting it from stains is crucial for maintaining both its appearance and hygiene.

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The good news is that most juice stains can be completely removed if you act quickly and use the proper cleaning techniques.

From natural remedies to commercial cleaning solutions, you can find a method that works best for your specific situation. Even old, set-in juice stains have hope! Though they require more effort, they aren’t impossible to remove.

Follow our comprehensive guide to learn the most effective methods for removing these pesky stains and preventing future accidents.

Quick Guide: A 30-Second Summary

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Act Fast

Finding a juice stain on your mattress or bedding can be stressful, but knowing how to respond quickly can make all the difference in preventing permanent damage.

The key to successful stain removal lies in taking immediate, strategic action with the right tools and methods at hand.

Why Quick Action Matters

Speed is crucial when dealing with juice stains because they contain natural dyes and sugars that bond with fabric fibers.

Every minute counts – within the first 30 minutes, you have the highest chance of complete stain removal. After just a few hours, these stains can become chemically bonded to the fabric, making them much harder to remove.

Most removable stains are successfully treated within the first hour of the spill. Many people make the mistake of waiting too long, turning a simple cleanup into a challenging restoration project.

Heat from sunlight or room temperature can accelerate this bonding process, making the stain even more stubborn. Deep stains that set into mattress layers can also create an environment for mold growth, especially if not properly dried.

So yes, the chemicals in juice can permanently alter fabric fibers if left untreated, making professional cleaning necessary.

What You’ll Need to Gather

Having the right tools ready can mean the difference between a successful cleanup and a permanent stain.

Your cleaning kit should include common household items like white vinegar, baking soda, and a gentle, unscented liquid detergent.

And having measuring spoons and cups ready ensures you mix cleaning solutions in the correct proportions.

White cloths or paper towels are essential – never use colored materials that might transfer additional dyes to the stained area.

A clean spray bottle filled with room temperature water helps control moisture levels during cleaning.

Keep a small fan or hairdryer nearby to aid in the crucial drying process after cleaning.

Rubber gloves protect your hands from both cleaning solutions and acidic juices.

Consider keeping a wet-dry vacuum handy for extracting excess moisture from deep mattress layers.

Store all these supplies together in an easily accessible container so you can react quickly to future spills.

(Side note: Mattress cleaning supplies are one thing you don’t want to keep under the bed, but a closet works fine).

Safety Precautions

Your mattress is a significant investment that requires proper protection during the stain removal process.

Keep all cleaning supplies and electrical devices safely separated to prevent hazardous situations.

Check your mattress warranty before applying any cleaning products, as some chemicals might void the manufacturer’s coverage. However, having permanent stains voids the warranty as well, so this isn’t something you want to leave unattended.

Place waterproof barriers like plastic sheets under the cleaning area to protect your floor and mattress foundation.

Always perform a spot test with any cleaning solution on a small, hidden area to check for adverse reactions with the fabric.

Avoid saturating the mattress – excess moisture is your biggest enemy and can lead to mold growth deep within the layers.

Ensure proper ventilation in the room by opening windows or running a fan to help with drying and disperse cleaning fumes.

Using a mattress protector after cleaning the mattress can prevent future stains and protect your investment.

First Steps for Fresh Juice Stains

When juice spills on your bed, your immediate response can save your bedding and mattress from permanent staining. Managing the situation effectively can increase your chances of complete stain removal.

Blot (Don’t Rub!) the Stain

The way you handle a fresh juice stain can either save your bedding or make the problem much worse. Rubbing a stain is one of the most common and damaging mistakes people make in a panic.

Instead, use a gentle blotting motion with a clean white cloth or paper towel, working from the outer edges toward the center to prevent spreading.

Heavy pressure during blotting can force the liquid deeper into the fabric or mattress layers, so maintain gentle, consistent pressure.

The color transfer to your cleaning cloth will tell you if you’re successfully lifting the stain. Continue blotting with clean sections of your cloth until you see minimal color transfer.

Patience during this step significantly impacts the final results. If the stain is particularly large, use multiple cloths to ensure you’re not redepositing the juice back into the fabric.

Remove Excess Liquid

Acting quickly to remove as much liquid as possible prevents the stain from spreading deeper into your bedding materials. Start by using dry, absorbent materials like paper towels or clean white cloths to soak up surface liquid.

Replace your absorbent materials frequently, Using a saturated cloth will only redistribute the juice.

A wet-dry vacuum can be incredibly effective for extracting liquid from deeper layers, especially on mattresses. Avoid pressing down too hard while removing excess liquid, as this can force the juice further into the fabric. The type of fabric affected will determine how much pressure you can safely apply during this process.

Remember that different materials have varying absorption rates, so adjust your technique accordingly. Some experts recommend using a clean, dry towel and placing a heavy object on top to help draw out deeper moisture.

Strip the Bedding Immediately

Quick removal of stained bedding can prevent the juice from seeping through multiple layers. Carefully remove each layer of bedding, starting from the top and working your way down to avoid spreading the stain to clean areas.

Keep the stained areas flat while removing bedding to prevent the liquid from running to clean sections. Separate stained items immediately to prevent color transfer between different fabrics and materials. Check each layer of bedding as you remove it, as juice can seep through multiple layers even if it’s not immediately visible.

Time is critical here! The sooner you can get stained items into the wash, the better your chances of complete stain removal.

Remember to check the laundry care labels on each item before treating them, as different materials may require different cleaning approaches. Handle delicate fabrics with extra care during removal to prevent stretching or tearing.

Cleaning Methods for Bedding

Different bedding materials require specific cleaning approaches to effectively remove juice stains while protecting the fabric. Understanding the right method for each type of material will help you clean effectively without causing damage.

Machine Washable Items

Most everyday bedding can go straight into the washing machine, but the right approach makes all the difference in stain removal success. Pre-treat the stain with a mixture of liquid detergent and cold water, letting it sit for 10-15 minutes before washing.

Always use the coldest water setting possible, as hot water can permanently set juice stains into the fabric. Avoid overloading the washing machine. Items need room to move freely for thorough cleaning.

Check the stained area before putting items in the dryer, as heat can set any remaining stain permanently. For stubborn stains, a second wash might be necessary, preferably with an enzymatic cleaner designed for fruit stains.

Consider adding a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle to help neutralize any remaining sugars from the juice. Color-safe oxygen bleach can boost cleaning power for particularly tough stains on colorfast fabrics.

Delicate Fabrics

Silk, wool, and other delicate materials like handmade items need extra care to prevent damage while removing juice stains. We have specific guides for handmade blankets and quilts:

Start with a gentle blotting technique using a clean, white cloth dampened with cold water to prevent water marks.

Create a cleaning solution using one part white vinegar to two parts water, or use a specialized cleaner designed for delicate fabrics. Test any cleaning solution on a hidden area first to ensure it won’t damage or discolor the fabric.

Never rub or scrub delicate materials, as this can damage fibers and create permanent marks or worn areas. Consider hand washing or using the delicate cycle with a mesh bag to protect fragile items during cleaning.

Allow delicate items to air dry naturally, away from direct sunlight or heat sources that could damage the fabric. Some delicate items might require professional dry cleaning to ensure safe and effective stain removal.

White Linens

White bedding requires specific attention to prevent yellowing or discoloration from juice stains.

Begin by pretreating the stain with a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and dish soap, which helps break down the stain without yellowing the fabric. Use oxygen-based bleach instead of chlorine bleach, as it’s gentler on fabrics while still effectively removing stains.

Sun exposure can actually help naturally bleach white linens after cleaning – lay them flat outside on a clean surface. Always wash white items separately from colored items to prevent any dye transfer that could make stain removal more challenging.

For extra whitening power, add a scoop of borax or oxygen booster to your regular detergent during washing.

Multiple gentle washes might be necessary to make bedding white again, rather than one aggressive treatment for tough stains that could damage the fabric.

Remember that different white fabrics (cotton, polyester blends, etc.) may require slightly different approaches for optimal results.

Tackling Mattress Stains

Removing juice stains from a mattress requires a systematic approach to ensure both effective cleaning and protection of your mattress. Understanding the right techniques can help you restore your mattress while preventing any potential damage from moisture or cleaning solutions.

Create a Cleaning Solution

Choose your cleaning solution carefully, as mattress materials are sensitive to harsh chemicals and excess moisture.

Mix equal parts white vinegar and cold water as a safe, effective base cleaning solution that won’t damage mattress fibers. Add a few drops of gentle dish soap or specialized upholstery cleaner to help break down the sugars in juice stains.

Avoid solutions containing bleach or ammonia, which can damage mattress materials and void warranties. Test your cleaning solution on a small, hidden area of the mattress first to ensure it won’t cause discoloration.

For darker juice stains, consider adding a small amount of hydrogen peroxide to your solution, but always test it first.

Some mattress materials may require specialized cleaning solutions. Check your manufacturer’s guidelines. Keep your cleaning solution in a spray bottle for better control during application. Remember that less is more when it comes to cleaning solutions on mattresses.

Applying the Solution Properly

Proper application technique prevents oversaturation while ensuring effective stain removal. Use a spray bottle to lightly mist the cleaning solution over the stained area, rather than pouring it directly onto the mattress.

Work in small sections, starting from the outer edges of the stain and moving toward the center to prevent spreading.

Use a clean white cloth to blot the solution into the stain, changing to a clean section of the cloth frequently. Never scrub the mattress surface, as this can damage the fabric and push the stain deeper into the layers.

Apply cleaning solution gradually. You can always add more, but removing excess moisture is challenging. Consider using a soft-bristled brush for very gentle agitation if needed, but avoid aggressive brushing.

Allow each application to sit for 3-5 minutes before blotting to give the solution time to work.

Drying Techniques

Thorough drying is crucial to prevent mold and maintain mattress integrity after stain removal. Position fans around the mattress to create good air circulation and speed up the drying process.

Use a clean, dry white towel to blot the cleaned area and absorb as much moisture as possible.

Consider using a wet/dry vacuum on the “dry” setting to extract excess moisture from deeper layers. Keep windows open if possible to improve ventilation and reduce drying time. Avoid using heat sources like hair dryers, which can set stains and damage mattress materials.

Allow several hours of drying time before making the bed, even if the surface feels dry. Test the mattress surface with a clean white cloth to ensure no moisture remains. If possible, prop up the mattress to allow air circulation on both sides.

Preventing Mold Growth

Moisture in your mattress can lead to mold growth, creating health risks and additional damage. Monitor the cleaned area for several days after treatment to ensure it’s completely dry. Use dehumidifiers in the room if you live in a humid climate or if drying seems slow.

Sprinkle baking soda over the cleaned area after it’s mostly dry. This helps absorb any remaining moisture and neutralize odors. Leave the baking soda for several hours or overnight before vacuuming thoroughly.

Check both sides of the mattress for any signs of moisture or discoloration that might indicate seepage. Consider using a mattress protector after cleaning to prevent future stains and moisture issues.

If you notice any musty odors or discoloration, address them immediately as these could indicate mold development. Keep your bedroom well-ventilated during and after the cleaning process to discourage mold growth.

Stubborn Stain Solutions

Some juice stains can be particularly challenging to remove, especially if they’ve had time to set into the fabric or mattress. Understanding your options, from natural remedies to professional services, can help you tackle even the toughest stains effectively.

Natural Cleaning Methods

Common household ingredients can be surprisingly effective for tackling stubborn juice stains without harsh chemicals. Create a paste using three parts baking soda to one part white vinegar, applying it directly to set-in stains and allowing it to work for several hours.

Lemon juice combined with salt can act as a natural bleaching agent for lighter fabrics, but always test in an inconspicuous area first.

Pure enzyme cleaners made from citrus or plants can break down fruit juice stains effectively without damaging fibers.

Using direct sunlight after cleaning can help naturally bleach remaining stains, especially on white fabrics. Though as a general rule of thumb, you want to keep the mattress out of the path of sunlight.

Club soda’s carbonation can help lift old stains when combined with gentle blotting techniques. A mixture of cream of tartar and lemon juice creates an effective paste for lighter colored fabrics. Cornstarch can help absorb set-in stains when applied dry and left overnight before vacuuming.

Commercial Products That Work

When natural cleaning methods fall short, store-bought solutions can be your secret weapon against stubborn juice stains.

Here are the most effective commercial products for juice stain removal:

  • Enzymatic beverage cleaners that target both sugar and protein stains
  • Oxygen-based cleaners like OxiClean for deep cleaning without damage
  • Professional-grade upholstery sprays that reach deep into mattress fibers
  • Color-safe bleach alternatives safe for both white and colored fabrics
  • Foam enzyme cleaners that control moisture while treating tough stains

Always test any commercial product on a small, hidden area first to ensure it won’t damage your bedding or mattress materials.

When to Call a Professional

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, professional expertise becomes necessary for optimal results. Consider professional cleaning if the stain has set for more than a few days or if previous cleaning attempts haven’t worked.

Large stains that may have seeped deep into mattress layers often require professional-grade equipment for thorough cleaning.

If you notice any mold or mildew developing after attempting to clean the stain, call a professional immediately. Professional cleaners have access to specialized solutions and equipment that can tackle stubborn stains without damaging materials.

Some mattress warranties require professional cleaning to remain valid, so check your warranty before attempting extensive DIY methods.

High-value or antique bedding items might be better trusted to professional care to prevent damage. If you’re dealing with multiple or extensive stains, professional cleaning might be more cost-effective in the long run.

Preventing Future Stains

The best way to handle juice stains is to prevent them from happening in the first place. By taking proactive steps and being prepared, you can protect your bedding investments and avoid the stress of cleaning up spills.

Mattress Protectors

Investing in quality mattress protection is your first line of defense against future stains and damage. Otherwise, you might need to use one of our cleaning guides:

Choose waterproof mattress protectors that also guard against dust mites and allergens for comprehensive protection.

Modern mattress protectors are quiet and comfortable, unlike the noisy plastic covers of the past. Look for breathable materials that won’t make you feel hot while sleeping but still provide complete liquid protection.

Consider getting multiple protectors so you always have a clean one ready when washing a mattress protector is needed. Deep-pocket protectors that fully encase the mattress offer better protection than fitted-style covers.

Regular washing of mattress protectors helps maintain their protective qualities and extends their lifespan. Check your protector regularly for signs of wear or damage that might compromise its effectiveness.

House Rules About Drinks

Setting clear boundaries about beverages in bed can prevent many potential staining situations. Create designated drink-free zones, especially in bedrooms and around upholstered furniture.

Use spill-proof containers or travel mugs if drinks must be taken near bedding, like the occasional breakfast in bed. Consider keeping drinks on a nearby table or nightstand rather than placing them directly on the bed.

Make sure children understand and follow these rules, perhaps creating fun reminders or signs. Establish consequences for not following drink rules to help reinforce their importance.

Limit certain types of drinks, like dark juices or red wine, to areas away from bedding. Make sure guests are aware of house rules regarding drinks near bedding and furniture.

Quick Response Kit Preparation

Having cleaning supplies ready and easily accessible can make the difference between a permanent stain and successful removal. Create a dedicated cleaning kit with all necessary supplies stored in an easy-to-carry container.

Keep your kit in a convenient location that everyone in the household knows about and can access quickly. Include detailed instructions in your kit so anyone can start the cleaning process immediately.

Stock your kit with white cloths, paper towels, spray bottles, and cleaning solutions suitable for your specific bedding materials. Regularly check and replenish supplies so your kit is always ready for emergencies.

Consider having multiple kits—one for upstairs and one for downstairs in multi-level homes. Include a list of professional cleaners’ contact information in your kit for serious spills that require expert help.

FAQs

Can I use hot water to clean juice stains?

No, you should never use hot water on juice stains. Hot water can actually set the stain permanently into the fabric by essentially “cooking” the sugars and dyes into the fibers.

Instead, always use cold water for both the initial cleaning and any follow-up treatments. Cold water helps prevent the stain from setting while allowing cleaning solutions to work effectively on breaking down the juice components.

What if my mattress still smells after cleaning?

Lingering odors after cleaning usually indicate that moisture remains trapped in the mattress layers. 

Start by sprinkling baking soda liberally over the entire area and let it sit for at least 24 hours to absorb both moisture and odors. Use fans and good ventilation to ensure thorough drying of all layers. 

If the smell persists after a few days, this might indicate mold growth, and you should consult a professional cleaner.

Is it worth buying expensive mattress protectors?

Quality mattress protectors are absolutely worth the investment when you consider the cost of replacing a mattress or professional cleaning services. High-end protectors offer better liquid resistance while remaining breathable and comfortable.

A good mattress protector can extend your mattress life by years and protect against not just stains but also allergens, dust mites, and general wear. The key is to choose one that’s waterproof yet breathable, and remember that proper care will extend its effectiveness.

What’s the best way to protect my mattress if I don’t have a protector?

Until you can get a proper mattress protector, create temporary protection using layers. Start with a waterproof pad or liner directly on the mattress, followed by a fitted sheet and your regular bedding layers.

Use washable bed pads in areas where spills are more likely to occur, such as when children are sick. However, this should only be a temporary solution, as proper mattress protectors offer the best long-term protection.

How long should I let cleaning solutions sit on the stain?

For most cleaning solutions, let them sit for 10-15 minutes before blotting or washing. This waiting period gives the cleaning agents time to break down the sugars and dyes in the juice stain effectively.

However, never let solutions sit for longer than 30 minutes, as this could damage the fabric or create water marks. Always monitor the area during this waiting period to ensure the cleaning solution isn’t soaking through to deeper layers.

Can I use bleach to remove juice stains from white bedding?

While chlorine bleach might seem like a quick solution, it’s not recommended for juice stain removal. Bleach can weaken fabric fibers and may even cause yellowing, especially on white materials.

Instead, opt for oxygen-based bleach or hydrogen peroxide-based cleaners that are gentler on fabrics. These alternatives are just as effective at removing stains while preserving the integrity of your bedding materials.

Is a mattress ruined if it gets wet?

A mattress isn’t automatically ruined if it gets wet, but quick action is really important to prevent lasting damage. If water sits in the mattress for too long, it can lead to mold and mildew growing inside, which could ruin it and be bad for your health.

The type of liquid also matters. Clean water is less harmful than dirty water or other liquids like blood, vomit or urine, which can leave stains and smells that are hard to get rid of.

How to dry a wet mattress quickly?

Start by soaking up as much water as you can using clean, dry towels. Press them firmly into the wet areas and keep replacing them with fresh ones until they stop picking up moisture.

Next, prop the mattress up against a wall in a room with good airflow, and set up some fans pointing directly at the wet spots to help the water evaporate faster.

Using a dehumidifier in the room will also help pull moisture out of the mattress, and if it’s a sunny day, taking the mattress outside for a few hours can speed up drying even more (just make sure to bring it in before sunset or if rain threatens).

How do I know if a stain needs professional cleaning?

Consider calling a professional if you’ve tried treating the stain twice without success, or if the stain has been present for more than a few days. Professional cleanerss should also be called if you notice any signs of mold, persistent odors, or if the stain has penetrated multiple layers of the mattress.

If your mattress is still under warranty, professional cleaning might be required to maintain warranty coverage, so always check your warranty terms before attempting extensive DIY cleaning.

Conclusion

Taking quick action and using the right methods can save your mattress and bedding from permanent juice stains. While dealing with juice stains can be frustrating, having the proper knowledge and tools makes the task much more manageable.

Remember that different materials require different cleaning approaches, so always check care labels and test cleaning solutions in an inconspicuous area first.

Prevention is your best strategy—investing in quality mattress protectors and establishing clear house rules about drinks can save you time and stress in the long run.

Keep your cleaning supplies organized and readily available, because when it comes to juice stains, every minute counts in preventing permanent damage to your bedding investments.

And don’t hesitate to call professional cleaners for stubborn stains or valuable items that require expert care.

With proper preparation and quick response, most juice stains can be successfully removed without leaving lasting damage.


About the author

Mitchell Tollsen is a graduate student and a freelance writer who’s contributed to the Early Bird blog for three years. Mitchell’s always been fascinated by the science of sleep and the restorative processes our bodies undergo when at rest. The self-titled “Sleep Expert” is always looking for ways to improve his shut-eye, and throughout the years has implemented numerous lifestyle changes and tried dozens of sleep-promoting gadgets to determine the best ways to truly get better rest.

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