How to Clean Vomit from Spirit Sleep Mattresses

It’s a problem that not many people think about, until it happens to them. What do you do if your child or pet vomits on your mattress? And the even better question: what if that mattress is all memory foam, like a Spirit Sleep brand mattress?

1. First, remove the cover if possible, and wash it in the washing machine. If the cover is not removable (on premium models), continue cleaning with one of the ideas below

2. After removing the solids and as much liquid as possible, start with a countertop cleaner (dye free) and try to spray and blot as much of the stain as possible. Follow with a large amount of antibacterial spray (such as Lysol) and allow to dry. Sprinkle on baking soda and let it sit for a few days, then vacuum it up. Finally, let it rest in the sun without sheets to air out and try to get the last of the smell out.

3. If you’re worried about using harsh chemicals, try hydrogen peroxide, bubbling dry, or mineral water.

4. Use an enzyme cleaner (found at pet stores where house training pads are), they break down protein and can remove odor.

5. After cleaning, if the smell persists, you can try a fabric cleaner, if the cover could not be removed.

6. Spray area with vinegar and blot, several times to remove odor and stain.

7. Put OxyClean and hot water in a spray bottle, spray and dry.

The most important thing to remember is to soak the mattress as much as necessary and pat dry, not rub. Memory foam like the one in Spirit Sleep beds doesn’t absorb like a kitchen sponge, it’s too dense for that. Also, make sure the mattress is completely dry before putting the sheets back on. I would recommend putting it outside in the sun regardless of whether or not it still smells. This will heat up the memory foam and remove any residual moisture.

Many of these recommendations work for urine as well, especially the enzyme cleanser tip. Of course, if you just spilled your morning cup of coffee, you can use these ideas too.

The most important thing to remember for next time: cover all your mattresses with a waterproof mattress protector. Modern protectors don’t feel like plastic sheets and are breathable so you don’t sleep hot. So the next time this happens (and there will be a next time), all you have to do is throw your sheets, comforter, and mattress protector into the washer, and hit the power button. I have one on every bed in my house (including my own and the one in the guest room that’s never used), because I never want to risk ruining a $1000 mattress by not putting a $50 mattress protector on it.