How to Get Vinegar Smell Out of Mattress

Have you tried cleaning your mattress with vinegar only to end up with a strong smell that won’t go away? Many people use vinegar to clean their mattresses because it works well on stains and kills bacteria.

Unfortunately, the strong smell can linger long after cleaning, making it hard to get a good night’s sleep. The sour odor happens because mattress materials easily trap the acidic smell inside their layers.

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Getting rid of that vinegar smell from your mattress doesn’t have to be a headache, though. You can remove this unpleasant smell with a few simple household items and some patience. This guide will walk you through several effective methods to make your mattress smell fresh again.

Why Vinegar Smell Lingers

Your mattress works like a giant sponge for liquids and smells. The foam layers inside most mattresses contain thousands of tiny air pockets that trap odor molecules. When you clean the mattress with vinegar, these air cells fill with the vinegar’s scent.

The fabric cover and inner fibers also grab and hold smells from the air and liquids. Cotton, polyester, and other mattress materials have microscopic spaces between threads where odors hide.

Even after the vinegar dries, the smell particles remain stuck in these tiny spaces. The deeper the vinegar soaks in, the harder it becomes to remove the smell completely.

Why Vinegar Has a Strong Smell

Vinegar packs a powerful odor punch because it contains acetic acid, Verified Source National Library of Medicine (NIH) World’s largest medical library, making biomedical data and information more accessible. View source which releases strong-smelling molecules into the air. These molecules travel easily through the air and trigger your smell receptors more intensely than many other household substances.

The concentration Verified Source National Library of Medicine (NIH) World’s largest medical library, making biomedical data and information more accessible. View source of acetic acid in cleaning vinegar often reaches 6%, making it extra potent and long-lasting. Your nose detects vinegar in extremely small amounts—even parts per million can smell strong.

Heat and humidity make vinegar smell stronger by helping more molecules escape into the air. The good news? Vinegar smell doesn’t last forever, and the acid eventually breaks down. With the right cleaning approach, you can speed up this process and eliminate the smell completely.

Quick Solutions

Act fast when vinegar spills on your mattress to prevent the smell from setting in. These immediate steps can save you from dealing with a persistent odor problem later.

Blotting Technique

Speed matters when you spill vinegar on your mattress. Grab clean, dry towels or paper towels right away and press them firmly onto the wet spot. Apply pressure and hold each towel in place for at least 30 seconds, allowing it to soak up as much liquid as possible.

Replace soaked towels with fresh ones and continue blotting until the towels come away nearly dry. Avoid the temptation to rub or scrub the area, as this pushes the vinegar deeper into your mattress layers.

Work from the outside edges of the spill toward the center to prevent spreading the liquid. Keep blotting until you’ve removed as much vinegar as you can. The more liquid you remove now, the less smell you’ll have to fight later.

Initial Neutralizing Steps

After blotting, immediately sprinkle a thick layer of baking soda over the entire damp area. Baking soda works as a natural odor neutralizer that will begin absorbing both moisture and smell.

Cover the affected spot completely with at least a quarter-inch layer of baking soda, extending a few inches beyond the spill’s edges. Let the baking soda sit undisturbed for at least three hours, but leaving it overnight works even better.

The longer it sits, the more odor it will absorb. When the time’s up, use your vacuum’s upholstery attachment to thoroughly remove all the baking soda. Move the vacuum slowly over the area multiple times from different directions.

You might need to repeat this baking soda treatment if you still detect a vinegar smell after the first application.

Deep Cleaning Methods

For stubborn vinegar smells that have had time to set in, you’ll need more thorough cleaning approaches. These deep cleaning methods target odors that have penetrated deeper into your mattress layers.

Baking Soda Treatment

Baking soda works as a powerful odor absorber that pulls smells from deep within your mattress. Remove all sheets, mattress protectors, and bedding from your mattress to expose the entire surface.

Pour baking soda directly onto the mattress and spread it evenly with your hands or a clean cloth until you create a thin, consistent layer covering the entire top surface. Use a clean, soft brush to gently work the baking soda into the mattress fabric—this helps it penetrate deeper where odors hide.

Allow the baking soda to sit undisturbed for 24 hours if possible, giving it plenty of time to absorb the vinegar smell. Vacuum the entire mattress thoroughly using an upholstery attachment, moving slowly to ensure you remove all the powder. For severe smells, you might need to repeat this process on both sides of your mattress.

White Vinegar and Water Solution

Fighting vinegar with vinegar might sound counterproductive, but this method neutralizes odors effectively. Create a solution by mixing one part white vinegar with three parts water in a clean spray bottle.

Lightly mist the smelly areas of your mattress—the key word is lightly, as you don’t want to soak your mattress and create moisture problems. The diluted vinegar solution helps neutralize the original vinegar smell by breaking down the remaining acid molecules. Allow your mattress to air dry completely, which might take several hours depending on ventilation and humidity.

Once dry, follow up with the baking soda treatment described above to absorb any remaining odors. This two-step process often eliminates even stubborn vinegar smells that have had time to set.

Essential Oil Refresher

Essential oils not only mask odors but can actually help neutralize them while leaving a pleasant scent behind. Combine 10-15 drops of your favorite essential oil for sleep with two tablespoons of baking soda in a small bowl, mixing thoroughly to distribute the oil. Lavender, eucalyptus, lemon, and tea tree oils work especially well because they have natural deodorizing properties.

Sprinkle this scented mixture evenly across your mattress, focusing on areas that still smell like vinegar. Gently brush the surface to help the mixture penetrate slightly into the fabric.

Let this treatment sit for at least 4-6 hours, allowing the baking soda to absorb odors while the essential oils leave a fresh scent. Vacuum thoroughly when done, making multiple slow passes to remove all the powder from your mattress surface.

Drying and Airing Techniques

Proper drying and airing play crucial roles in eliminating vinegar odors from your mattress. These methods help remove moisture that traps smells while introducing fresh air to replace stale odors.

Proper Ventilation

Good airflow removes vinegar smell by carrying away odor molecules as they evaporate from your mattress. Open windows on opposite sides of your room to create cross ventilation, which pulls fresh air across your mattress and pushes odor-filled air outside.

Position your mattress in the center of this airflow path to maximize the air exchange around all surfaces. Remove any obstacles that block air movement around your bed frame, such as storage boxes or furniture placed too close.

Turn on ceiling fans if available to increase vertical air movement in the room. Keep doors open throughout your home to improve overall air circulation. Leave windows open for at least several hours, or even a full day if weather permits, to give your mattress maximum exposure to fresh air.

Sunlight Exposure

Sunlight works as a natural deodorizer and disinfectant that breaks down the molecules causing vinegar smell. Carry your mattress outside on a dry, sunny day and place it where it will receive direct sunlight for several hours.

The sun’s ultraviolet rays kill bacteria that might contribute to lingering odors while the heat helps evaporate any remaining moisture trapped in the mattress layers. Prop your mattress against a wall or railing to maximize sun exposure, making sure it stands securely.

Flip your mattress halfway through the sunning process to ensure both sides benefit from this natural treatment. Avoid leaving your mattress outside if there’s any chance of rain or heavy dew, as additional moisture will only make odor problems worse. Bring your mattress back inside before evening humidity rises.

Using Fans and Dehumidifiers

Electric fans and dehumidifiers speed up the drying process significantly, especially in humid environments. Position multiple fans around your mattress to create a continuous flow of air across all surfaces—ideally, place at least one fan on each side of the mattress.

Use oscillating fans if possible to ensure more even air coverage. Run a dehumidifier in the same room to pull moisture from both the air and your mattress, setting it to maintain 40-50% humidity for optimal results. Increase your room’s temperature slightly, as warmer air holds more moisture and accelerates evaporation from your mattress.

Keep this setup running for at least 24 hours for deeply soaked mattresses. Check that your mattress feels completely dry throughout before putting sheets back on, as trapped moisture leads to mold and mildew problems.

Preventive Measures

Take steps now to protect your mattress from future cleaning disasters. These preventive measures save you time and effort while extending the life of your mattress.

Mattress Protectors

A quality mattress protector creates a barrier against spills, preventing liquids like vinegar from ever reaching your mattress. Look for waterproof protectors that feature a thin membrane layer sandwiched between soft fabric layers, which blocks fluids while remaining comfortable to sleep on.

Choose breathable options made with materials like cotton blend or tencel that allow air circulation and prevent heat buildup while you sleep. Make sure your protector covers all six sides of your mattress if possible, not just the top surface, for complete protection against spills.

Check that the protector fits snugly with deep pockets or elastic edges that prevent shifting during use. Wash your mattress protector every 1-2 months following the manufacturer’s instructions to prevent dust, sweat, and oils from building up.

Keep a spare protector on hand so you can immediately replace a soiled one while the other is being washed.

Alternative Cleaning Solutions

Keeping your mattress clean doesn’t require harsh chemicals like vinegar. Try these gentler methods instead.

• Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water and apply with a damp cloth for quick spot cleaning.
• Use enzyme-based cleaners for biological stains like sweat or urine—they break down organic compounds without harsh smells.
• Rent a steam cleaner with an upholstery attachment for annual deep cleaning that sanitizes without chemicals.
• Create a homemade refresher by mixing baking soda with essential oils to sprinkle on your mattress occasionally.
• Always test any new cleaning solution on a small, hidden area first to avoid damage or discoloration.

Your mattress deserves gentle care to maintain its comfort and extend its life.

Regular Maintenance

Consistent mattress care prevents odor buildup and extends the life of your bed. Vacuum your mattress monthly using your vacuum’s upholstery attachment, paying special attention to seams, tufts, and crevices where dust and allergens collect.

Rotate your mattress end-to-end every three months to promote even wear and prevent body impressions from forming in one area. Apply a light dusting of baking soda across your entire mattress twice a year, let it sit for a few hours, and vacuum thoroughly to absorb any developing odors before they become noticeable.

Remove and wash all bedding weekly in hot water to prevent the transfer of oils, sweat, and dirt to your mattress surface. Air out your mattress occasionally by removing all bedding for a few hours, allowing fresh air to circulate around all surfaces.

When to Seek Professional Help

Sometimes DIY methods aren’t enough to completely eliminate stubborn vinegar odors from your mattress. Knowing when to call experts can save you time and potentially rescue your mattress from permanent damage.

• Persistent odor after multiple treatments: If you’ve tried several rounds of baking soda treatments and the smell remains, deeper professional cleaning may be necessary. Strong vinegar scents that return after cleaning indicate the odor has penetrated deep into your mattress layers.
• Development of musty smells: New musty odors alongside the vinegar scent often indicate mold or mildew growth inside your mattress. These secondary smells typically worsen in humid conditions and require professional attention immediately.
• Internal dampness that won’t dry: If areas of your mattress still feel cool or slightly damp after days of drying efforts, moisture remains trapped inside. This trapped moisture creates the perfect environment for mold growth and continued odor problems.
• Visible discoloration or staining: Check for yellowish or greenish spots that weren’t there before your cleaning attempts. These discolorations often signal biological growth that needs professional sanitizing treatments.
• Professional extraction services: Professional cleaners use commercial-grade extraction machines that inject cleaning solution and immediately vacuum it out, reaching deeper than home methods. These specialized tools can remove both moisture and odor molecules from all mattress layers.
• Specialized deodorizing treatments: Ask potential cleaning services about their deodorizing options specifically designed for acidic smells like vinegar. Professional-grade neutralizers can break down odor compounds rather than just masking them.

The investment in professional help makes sense when you consider the importance of healthy, comfortable sleep and the cost of a new mattress.

Refreshing Final Touches

After removing vinegar odors, add these finishing touches to keep your mattress smelling clean and fresh. These simple additions create a pleasant sleeping environment that promotes better rest.

Natural Air Fresheners

Natural fresheners provide a subtle, pleasant scent without harsh chemicals that might irritate your skin or lungs. Create small fabric sachets filled with dried lavender, chamomile, or rose petals and tuck them between your mattress and box spring or under the fitted sheet at the corners of your bed.

These gentle scents release slowly over time, masking any faint remaining odors. Mix a simple linen spray by combining 10 drops of essential oil with 2 tablespoons of vodka and 1 cup of water in a spray bottle, then lightly mist your mattress (not your bedding) every few weeks. The alcohol evaporates quickly while helping disperse the essential oil scent.

Place a small, shallow dish filled with fresh baking soda on your nightstand or under your bed to continuously absorb odors in your sleeping area. Add a few drops of essential oil to the baking soda if you prefer a light fragrance, and replace it monthly for best results.

Use activated charcoal bags near your bed as another effective odor absorber that works silently to keep the air fresh.

Making Your Bed Smell Great

Fresh, clean bedding dramatically improves your sleeping experience and complements your odor-free mattress. Wash your sheets, pillowcases, and mattress pad weekly in hot water with a mild, fragrance-free detergent to prevent oils and sweat from building up and transferring to your mattress.

Hang your bedding outside to dry whenever possible, as sunshine adds a naturally fresh scent that commercial products try to imitate. Add a quarter cup of white vinegar to your washing machine’s rinse cycle to ensure all soap residue rinses away, leaving no chemical smell behind.

Store clean bedding with natural scent boosters like cedar blocks, lavender sachets, or rosemary sprigs in your linen closet, which gently perfume your sheets between uses. For a stronger effect, you can use linen and pillow sprays.

Consider using a light dusting of a cornstarch-baking soda mixture (2:1 ratio) between your mattress and fitted sheet to absorb moisture and odors before they can settle into your mattress.

Replace your pillows every 1-2 years, as they collect oils and dust that can contribute to bedroom odors even when your mattress is clean.

​​FAQs

How long does it take for vinegar smell to disappear from a mattress?

Vinegar smell typically takes 2-5 days to completely disappear from a mattress if you do nothing but let it air out. With proper treatment using baking soda and ventilation, you can reduce this time to 1-2 days in most cases.

The exact timeline depends on how much vinegar soaked into your mattress and how deeply it penetrated the layers. Remember that memory foam and other dense mattress materials may hold odors longer than traditional innerspring mattresses because of their tight cell structure.

Can I sleep on my mattress while trying to remove vinegar smell?

Yes, you can sleep on your mattress while working to remove vinegar smell, but it’s better to wait until after treatments like baking soda have been vacuumed away.

Place a clean mattress protector and sheets over your mattress if you need to use it between odor-removing treatments.

Keep in mind that your body heat and weight might slow down the evaporation process that helps eliminate the vinegar smell. For best results, try to arrange your odor-removal schedule to allow for at least 8 hours of uninterrupted treatment time.

Will vinegar smell eventually go away on its own?

Yes, vinegar smell will eventually disappear on its own as the acetic acid evaporates and breaks down naturally. This process can take anywhere from several days to two weeks depending on room ventilation, humidity levels, and how deeply the vinegar soaked into your mattress.

However, waiting for the smell to disappear naturally isn’t ideal since the lingering moisture can lead to mold or mildew growth inside your mattress. Active treatments like baking soda application and proper ventilation will significantly speed up the odor removal process.

Can I use a hair dryer to speed up the drying process?

Using a hair dryer isn’t recommended for drying a mattress with vinegar smell because the concentrated heat can damage mattress materials and potentially set the vinegar smell deeper into the fabric.

The high heat might also create a perfect environment for mold growth in any remaining damp areas not reached by the airflow. Instead, use room fans positioned around your mattress to create consistent, gentle airflow that evenly dries all areas.

If you absolutely must use a hair dryer, keep it on the cool setting and hold it at least 12 inches away from the mattress surface.

What if I used too much vinegar and soaked my mattress completely?

For a completely soaked mattress, you’ll need to take more aggressive drying measures immediately to prevent mold growth and permanent damage. Start by pressing clean, dry towels firmly into the mattress to absorb as much liquid as possible, changing them when they become damp.

Set up multiple fans pointing at different areas of the mattress and run a dehumidifier in the room at the highest setting. Apply baking soda generously to both sides of the mattress, vacuum it after 8 hours, and repeat this process several times.

For severe cases, consider consulting a professional mattress cleaner, as they have industrial equipment that can extract deep moisture.

Can I use perfume or air fresheners to cover up vinegar smell?

Using perfumes or commercial air fresheners to mask vinegar smell isn’t effective and may create a worse combined odor. These products only temporarily cover up smells rather than neutralizing or removing them from your mattress fibers.

The chemicals in many air fresheners might also irritate your skin or respiratory system when you sleep on the treated mattress. Instead, focus on truly neutralizing the vinegar with baking soda and removing the odor molecules through proper ventilation and drying techniques.

How can I tell if mold is growing in my mattress after using vinegar?

Look for visible discoloration that appears as green, black, or brownish spots on your mattress surface, which indicates mold growth.

Pay attention to any musty, earthy smell that develops or intensifies when the room is warm or humid, as this is typical of mold rather than vinegar’s sharp, acidic odor.

Notice if you experience increased allergy symptoms like sneezing, congestion, or itchy eyes when lying on the bed, which could signal mold spores being released. Test for internal dampness by pressing firmly on different areas of your mattress.

If it feels cool to the touch or doesn’t spring back normally after several days of drying efforts, moisture remains trapped inside where mold can grow.

Conclusion

Removing vinegar smell from your mattress takes time and patience, but the fresh results make your efforts worthwhile.

With the right combination of absorbing agents like baking soda, proper ventilation techniques, and preventive measures, you can eliminate even stubborn vinegar odors completely.

Addressing spills immediately gives you the best chance of preventing lasting smells from developing in the first place.

Regular mattress maintenance, including vacuuming and occasional refreshing treatments, keeps your sleeping surface clean and odor-free for years to come.

Investing in a quality mattress protector remains one of the smartest ways to prevent future cleaning challenges and preserve your mattress’s lifespan. When all else fails, professional cleaning services offer powerful solutions for persistent odors that home methods can’t tackle.

With these techniques in your cleaning arsenal, you can enjoy peaceful sleep on a fresh-smelling mattress night after night. And do let us know how it goes in the comments below or on social media!