Steps To Salvage A Waterlogged Mattress

When a flood or water damage event affects your home, your mattress can quickly become a major concern. Excessive moisture compromises the mattress’s integrity while fostering dangerous microbial growth that threatens your well-being.



While replacing the mattress is often the safest option, especially if it has been submerged for a long time, there are steps you can take to try to salvage it if the damage is minimal and caught early. If the water exposure was brief and surface-level, restoration might be possible.



First, act quickly. The longer water sits on or in your mattress, the worse the damage becomes. Remove the mattress from the flooded area as soon as it is safe to do so. Transport it to a breezy, dry location such as a covered patio or basement with dehumidifiers. Avoid placing it directly on concrete or damp flooring, as this can wick more moisture into the material. Never rest the mattress on wet or porous floors—it’ll trap more humidity.



Next, remove all bedding, including sheets, mattress pads, and protectors. Launder every fabric layer in high-temperature water with a disinfecting agent and tumble-dry on high heat. Do not attempt to reuse any bedding that still smells musty or shows signs of mold. A musty scent means spores are still active.



Use a wet vacuum or absorbent towels to remove as much standing water as possible from the surface of the mattress. Use heavy-duty microfiber cloths or industrial absorbent pads to blot excess liquid. Do not rub the surface, as this can push water deeper into the padding. Rubbing forces moisture into inner layers. Continue replacing towels as they become saturated. Swap out soaked towels frequently for dry ones.



Once the surface water is removed, elevate the mattress on its side or prop it up with blocks to allow air to circulate on all sides. Stand the mattress upright or lean it at a 45-degree angle for maximum airflow. Use fans and dehumidifiers to speed up the drying process. Place multiple fans around the perimeter to encourage even airflow. Keep the dehumidifier running continuously for at least 48 to 72 hours, or until the mattress feels completely dry to the touch. Run the dehumidifier nonstop for a minimum of two full days.



After the mattress has dried, sprinkle baking soda generously over the entire surface. Use a shaker or sieve to evenly distribute a thick layer of baking soda. Let it sit for several hours or overnight to help absorb lingering odors and moisture. For stubborn smells, leave baking soda on for 12–24 hours. Vacuum the baking soda thoroughly using the hose attachment to remove all residue. Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to capture fine particles.



Check for signs of mold or mildew. Sniff for any lingering damp, earthy odor—even faint traces indicate contamination. If mold is visible or the odor remains after cleaning, it is best to discard the mattress. Even surface cleaning won’t touch deep-seated spores. Mold can be harmful, especially for people with allergies or respiratory conditions, and sofa cleaning Abu Dhabi may not remove it entirely from deep within the layers. Mold spores can trigger asthma, sinusitis, and chronic coughing.



To prevent future water damage, consider investing in a waterproof mattress protector. A high-quality waterproof cover acts as a vital barrier against spills and floods. Even if your mattress was not directly affected by the flood, it’s important to inspect your bedding regularly during cleanup and drying to catch any hidden moisture. Examine mattress seams and edges for unseen wet spots.



Ultimately, if the mattress was soaked for more than a few hours, shows visible damage, or you are unsure of its safety, replacing it is the most responsible choice for your long term health. Your health isn’t worth risking—replace it if any doubt exists. A good night’s sleep is worth the investment, and your health should always come first. Prioritizing sleep quality means investing in a safe, clean sleeping surface.