When a flood or water damage event affects your home, your mattress can quickly become a major concern. Water saturation not only ruins the structure of the mattress but also creates a breeding ground for mold, mildew, and bacteria that can impact your health.

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. In some cases, prompt action may save a lightly affected mattress.

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. If possible, move it to a dry, well ventilated space like a garage or outdoor area under cover. 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. Wash these items in hot water with detergent and dry them completely before reusing. Do not attempt to reuse any bedding that still smells musty or shows signs of mold. Even faint odors signal hidden microbial growth.

Use a wet vacuum or absorbent towels to remove as much standing water as possible from the surface of the mattress. Press down gently but firmly to soak up moisture. Do not rub the surface, as this can push water deeper into the padding. Agitating the surface spreads contamination and traps water. Continue replacing towels as they become saturated. Replace absorbent materials every 15–20 minutes until no more water is absorbed.

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. Support it on cinder blocks or plastic risers to expose all surfaces to air. 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. Monitor humidity levels—target below 50% before considering the mattress dry.

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. If the odor persists, reapply and extend the dwell time to overnight. Vacuum the baking soda thoroughly using the hose attachment to remove all residue. Ensure no powder remains—residue can attract moisture and dust.

Check for signs of mold or mildew. Inspect for green, black, or brown discoloration and any visible fungal threads. If mold is visible or the odor remains after cleaning, it is best to discard the mattress. Even surface drapes cleaning won’t touch deep-seated spores. Mold can be harmful, especially for people with allergies or respiratory conditions, and cleaning may not remove it entirely from deep within the layers. Once mold penetrates foam or springs, it’s impossible to fully sterilize.

To prevent future water damage, consider investing in a waterproof mattress protector. Install a certified water-resistant mattress encasement for long-term protection. 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. Check under sheets and pads for dampness.

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. When in doubt, err on the side of caution and replace the mattress. A good night’s sleep is worth the investment, and your health should always come first. Never compromise on hygiene—your body deserves a healthy foundation to rest on.