07 Feb 2025 Should You Steam Clean Your Mattress? Why a Cleaning Pro Recommends Another Method

By Shagun Khare

Cleaning a mattress can feel like an ordeal—as it’s not necessarily a task that should be taken lightly. After all, your mattress is the piece of furniture you probably spend the most time on throughout your life. Keeping it comfortable and clean is paramount to a good night’s sleep and feeling energized for the day ahead.

Steam cleaning in particular is one of the most common ways people opt to refresh their mattresses. However, while it can be done, it may not always be the best option—contrary to popular belief.

We tapped a pro cleaner for the reasons why you may want to avoid steam cleaning your mattress, and how to go about the process instead.

See the full article on The Spruce

Meet the Expert:

• Robin Murphy is the owner of Maid Brigade.

The Risk of Moisture and Heat

In general, mattresses are not designed to handle significant amounts of moisture.

“Steam can penetrate deep into the layers, and if the mattress does not dry thoroughly, it can lead to mold and mildew growth,” Robin Murphy, founder of cleaning services Maid Brigade and ChirpChirp, cautions.

Mattresses are especially prone to long drying times because they are so dense.

“Prolonged dampness can compromise both the structure and hygiene of the mattress,” Murphy explains.

Steam can also reach internal components, like metal springs in hybrid or traditional mattresses, which can run the risk of getting rusty, Murphy notes.

“Moisture trapped in the padding can also create long-term problems like odor or mold,” she adds.

For smart mattresses—or those with built-in heating and cooling systems—there is added risk.