When a flood or carpet water damage 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. 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. Place it in an elevated, airflow-friendly zone away from direct ground contact. Avoid placing it directly on concrete or damp flooring, as this can wick more moisture into the material. Damp surfaces act as conduits, pulling water back into the padding.

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. Rubbing forces moisture into inner layers. Continue replacing towels as they become saturated. Keep a stack of fresh towels ready and rotate them continuously.

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. Position it vertically against a wall or use wooden blocks to lift it off the floor. Use fans and dehumidifiers to speed up the drying process. Direct fans to blow air across the mattress rather than directly into it. 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. Coat the mattress liberally with baking soda to neutralize odors. 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. Clean with the upholstery tool to reach crevices and seams.

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. If any mold is detected, replacement is the only safe option. 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. 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. Monitor for condensation or unusual odors during the drying phase.

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. If water saturation lasted over 3 hours, replacement is strongly advised. A good night’s sleep is worth the investment, and your health should always come first. New mattresses ensure restful, allergen-free nights.