How to Get Yellow Stains out of mattress?
- By Jessica
- Last Update: Aug 16, 2023
The best way to get yellow stains out of a mattress is to remove them promptly once you notice them.
Yellow stains on mattresses can be an unsightly and perplexing issue, affecting both the appearance and hygiene of your sleeping surface. These stains can develop over time due to a combination of factors, ranging from natural bodily processes to environmental influences.
In this post, we’ll explore the causes of yellow stains on mattresses and provide you with expert tips on how to effectively remove them. Say goodbye to yellow stains and hello to a fresh, clean mattress!
Table of Contents
What Causes Yellow Stains on Mattresses?
Several things cause yellow stains on mattresses, and they are as follows.
1. Natural Aging Process
As years go by, your mattress gets older and may decay. What causes aging or decay is natural oxidation. The oxidation results from your bed getting exposed to the oxygen in the air. It, in turn, makes your mattress have a yellowish tinge.
The only good thing about yellow stains due to oxidation is that the colors don’t contain a smell. It’s vital to note that aging is natural to any mattress, and oxidation happens to every bed, especially memory foam mattresses.
Also Read: Why Do Foam Mattresses Turn Yellow?
2. Sweat and Body Oil
Our bodies sweat whenever we sleep, especially during hot seasons. You may not notice these natural body oils with time. If left out, they accumulate on your mattress, making unsightly stains.
Excess sweat may also be a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to strange odors on top of the yellow stains. Once the pigments become smelly, removing them may be challenging. That’s why you should frequently wash and change your bedding to prevent moisture from body sweats from forming on the mattress.
Also Read: How to Prevent Moisture Under Mattress?
3. Stains from Accidents
Different kinds of stains from accidents may cause yellow colors on the mattress. Let’s have a look at some of them.
- Urine
If you or your child accidentally pours urine on your mattress, it can form smelly yellow stains. Fresh urine can be difficult to remove if it seeps deeper into your bed. Additionally, uncleaned urine stains may cause mold and mites, degrading your hard-earned mattress.
- Water Stains
If you accidentally spill water on the mattress and take time to clean it, it may cause light yellow-beige stains. Water stains don’t smell but might cause mold and form more yellow stains.
Also Read: How to Get Mold Out of Mattress?
4. Rust
Sweat and moisture can access your hybrid mattress or the coils of a spring mattress, making the springs rust. The rust on the springs can be transferred to the mattress since it holds the bed in place.
Rust stains are darker and contain an orange tinge. Another way you can notice rust stains is that they smell faintly metallic.
5. Dead Skin Cells
As we sleep, we naturally shed dead skin cells. These cells can accumulate on the mattress, providing a source of nutrients for bacteria and other microorganisms.
When these cells break down in the mattress, they can contribute to discoloration and yellowing.
6. Chemical Reactions
Certain chemicals present in cleaning products, body lotions, and even laundry detergents can react with the materials in your mattress, resulting in discoloration.
This chemical reaction can lead to yellow stains over time, especially in areas where these products come into direct contact with the mattress.
7. Allergens and Dust Mite
Allergens, such as dust mites and pet dander, can accumulate in mattresses over time. The waste products from dust mites can contain enzymes that break down proteins, and this process can contribute to yellowing.
How to Remove Yellow Stains on Mattresses?
There are two ways of removing yellow stains on mattresses; you can use a home cleaning solution or get a commercial stain remover. Let’s take a look at each method.
1. Homemade Cleaning Solution for Yellow Stains
Some homemade cleaning solutions for yellow stains include baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and vinegar. Here is the procedure for how to use each of them.
Baking Soda, Vinegar, and Water
Here is a step-by-step process of using baking soda, vinegar, and water.
Step 1: Assemble all the Materials
To eliminate yellow stains, you will require the following set of tools:
- Vinegar – To lift the stain
- Water – To form a solution
- Baking soda – Lifts the stain from the mattress and minimizes the smell on the bed.
- Clean cloths – Blot out any excess liquid when spraying
- Empty spray bottle – Holds the solution in place
- Vacuum – Removes any lingering dirt and dust on the mattress
Step 2: Remove all the Bedding and Vacuum
Before you even prepare the cleaning solution, you can start by preparing the mattress by stripping all the bedding and then vacuuming the mattress surface to remove any lingering dirt. This helps you have a clean bed, making removing the yellow stain seamless.
Step 3: Make Your Solution and Spray
Next, you can mix equal amounts of water and vinegar and pour the solution into the empty spray bottle. Then spray the mixture generously on the stain.
Remember to blot out any excess liquid using your clean cloth. Allow the mixture to sit for about 10 minutes before you go to the next step.
Step 4: Add Baking Soda
After 10-15 minutes are over, sprinkle baking soda on top of the stain and allow it to sit undisturbed for at least 8 hours. You will begin to notice the stubborn yellow stains are fading.
It’s vital to note that baking soda and vinegar are base and acid, respectively. The two react in the presence of water to neutralize each other mainly. The reaction is known as neutralization. The bubbles they generate during the chemical reaction help lift your mattress’s yellow stains.
Step 5: Vacuum the Mattress
After 8 hours, the stain has reduced or gone entirely. You must vacuum the area to remove the baking soda and other dirt. Allow the bed to air out for some minutes before you can remake it again and enjoy rest.
Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide
Here is a process of how you can remove yellow stains from your mattress using hydrogen peroxide and baking soda..
Step 1: Assemble the Materials you Need
- Baking soda
- Dish soap
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Bowl
- Empty spray bottle
- Vacuum
- Empty spray bottle
Step 2: Remove the Bedding and Vacuum
Begin by stripping all the bedding so that you remain with the bed only. Then vacuum any debris or dirt so that you get a precise mattress.
Step 3: Mix the Solution
Using a bowl, combine three tablespoons of baking soda and 1 cup of hydrogen peroxide. Ensure you mix until you see the baking soda has dissolved. Incorporate a few drops of dish soap. Then remix them all. Pour the solution into your empty spray bottle.
Step 4: Spray the Solution
Apply the mixture directly on the stain, beginning from outwards and moving to the center of the stain. Then leave it. You don’t have to wipe or rub in with a sponge.
Step 5: Allow the Solution to Sit
Let the solution sit on the yellow stain for approximately 15 minutes. The stain will start to fade away, and if there is any smell, it will disappear. After 15 minutes, you can take a clean cloth to wipe lingering baking soda and other crumbs left behind.
Repeat the same process until you achieve great results. Let the mattress air out for some minutes before you use it again.
2. Commercial Stain Remover for Yellow Stains
If the above cleaning solutions do not produce excellent results, you can opt for a commercial stain remover. Using a commercial stain remover saves time and can be an ideal option if your mattress has a yellow stain because of age.
Here is a process you can follow when using a commercial stain remover.
- First, do not use a harsh chemical on your mattress; it will cause more damage. You can opt for a mild stain remover.
- Read the instructions highlighted on the stain remover carefully to get the best results.
- Then apply the stain remover following specific instructions on the product to remove the yellow stain.
FAQs about Removing Yellow Stains from Mattresses
How often should I clean my mattress to prevent yellow stains?
Regular cleaning is key to preventing yellow stains. Aim to clean your mattress every 3 to 6 months, and more frequently if you notice any spills or stains.
Can I use bleach to remove yellow stains from my mattress?
While bleach can be effective, it’s important to exercise caution. Chlorine bleach can damage the fabric and may leave a strong odor. Oxygen bleach is a safer alternative for mattress stain removal.
Can I put my mattress in direct sunlight to remove yellow stains?
Yes, sunlight can help fade yellow stains. However, avoid leaving your mattress in direct sunlight for extended periods, as excessive heat can damage the materials.
Is it normal for mattresses to develop yellow stains over time?
Yes, it’s normal for mattresses to develop yellow stains due to sweat, body oils, and other factors. Regular cleaning and preventive measures can help keep these stains at bay.
How do I prevent yellow stains on my mattress in the first place?
Prevention is key. You can use a mattress protector can help shield your mattress from sweat, spills, and body oils, reducing the likelihood of yellow stains.
Can I use a steam cleaner to remove yellow stains?
Steam cleaners can be effective but be cautious with the amount of moisture applied to the mattress. Excessive moisture can lead to mold and mildew growth.
What if the yellow stain has been on the mattress for a long time?
Older stains might be more challenging to remove, but the methods mentioned above can still help lighten them. Be patient and persistent in your cleaning efforts.
Can I machine-wash my mattress to remove yellow stains?
No, you cannot machine-wash a mattress to remove yellow stains. Mattresses are not designed to be washed in a machine and doing so can damage the mattress and affect its structural integrity.
Can yellow stains on a mattress be harmful to health?
Yellow stains on a mattress are typically caused by bodily fluids such as sweat or urine and can be unsightly, but they are generally not harmful to health. However, if the stains are accompanied by a foul odor or signs of mold or mildew growth, it may indicate a deeper issue that could affect health.
Is it possible to remove old, deep-set yellow stains?
Yes, it is possible to remove old, deep-set yellow stains. However, it may require more effort and specialized cleaning techniques compared to fresh or surface-level stains.
Can I use a carpet cleaner on my mattress to remove stains?
No, it is not recommended to use a carpet cleaner on a mattress to remove stains. Carpet cleaners are designed specifically for cleaning carpets and may contain chemicals or solutions that are not safe for use on mattresses.
Can I flip my mattress to hide the stain?
Flipping the mattress won’t address the underlying issue. It’s better to treat the stain directly to ensure a clean sleep surface.
Summary
When you find a yellow stain on your mattress, time is of the essence. Remove the stain promptly. It’s easier to remove the yellow stain when it’s still fresh than when it has stayed for many hours.
Remember to practice gentleness when using the above cleaning solutions on your mattress; try to blot and not scrub. You can use commercial stain removers for more prominent stains or age stains. Finally, you can get a mattress protector to save your mattress from unnecessary spills and increase the bed’s longevity.
Jessica is a lover of both life and gardening. She loves to share his passion for both on social media. He often posts about his latest gardening projects, as well as tips and tricks for others who might be interested in starting their own gardens. She also frequently posts about the different aspects of his life that he enjoys, from spending time with friends and family to exploring new places.
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