Download Article
Download Article
A mattress that has been in storage for a while can gain an unpleasant musty odour that seems to linger. For a better night's sleep uninterrupted by mustiness, here are some suggestions.
Steps
Download Article
-
Assess the state of the mattress carefully. Mustiness is one thing, while mould and mildew is quite another. If the mattress is mouldy or mildewed, assess the extent. Sometimes surface mould can be killed by airing in sunshine but if it has permeated the mattress, you'll need to toss it out at an appropriate waste or recycling depot. [1] X Research source -
Air the mattress outside. As long as the sun is shining, this can even be done during winter provided it isn't on wet ground. A good day of sunshine will be a healthy start for improving the mattress odor. Even better if you can take it in and put it out again several days in a row.Advertisement -
Sponge the mattress. Make up a solution of 5 drops of tea tree oil (ti-tree oil) to one bucket of warm water. Sponge this mixture over the entire mattress. Then place out into the fresh air to dry thoroughly before use.- Tea tree oil has the benefit of anti-bacterial and anti-mould activity.
-
Use baking soda or bicarbonate of soda. Sprinkle liberally over the mattress. This should absorb most, if not all, of the odour. Leave on the mattress for two to four days, then vacuum off. The mattress will hopefully be ready to use now. [2] X Research source -
Use a strong wood odour to mask the mustiness. Some woods such as huon pine or cedar can be cut into blocks and Slipped between the base and the mattress to release a better odour. Herbal or spice sachets could also be used to the same end. [3] X Research source
Advertisement
Expert Q&A
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
Advertisement
Tips
Submit a Tip
All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
Name
Please provide your name and last initial
Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
Warnings
- It might seem logical but avoid spraying perfume or strong smells onto the mattress. Not only might this stain the mattress but you might end up with a much worse odour to contend with!Thanks
Advertisement
Things You'll Need
- Sunshine and dry spot for outdoor placement of mattress
- Tea tree oil (ti-tree oil)
- Baking soda or bicarbonate of soda
- Scented wood blocks or herbal/spice sachets
References
About This Article
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 148,475 times.
Advertisement
100%
of readers found this article helpful
.
Click a star to add your vote
% of people told us that this article helped them.
"I may be able to save my mattress. "
