While sleeping on a Polysleep mattress can feel like a dream come true, an unexpected water spill or a bed-wetting accident on the memory foam mattress can dampen your spirits.
Wet mattresses, if not dried promptly, can smell musty and develop mold that can permanently damage them. If you are wondering how to dry a mattress that has become soaking wet, here are some steps you can try.
How to dry a mattress: step by step
Step 1: Remove the moisture
After a spillage, the first thing to do is to use a clean, dry towel to blot off the water. Press the towel on the wet area and allow it to absorb the moisture. You can put a heavy object on top of the towel to aid the absorbing process. Let it rest for a while before lifting it to remove moisture effectively.
Step 2: Treat the stains
If the mattress got wet from urine or blood, you need to use cleaning agents like hydrogen peroxide on the area to remove the stains. Urine stains can be removed using baking soda and vinegar solution.
Dab the area with the cleaning solution and gently rub it off with a clean cloth to remove the stains.
Step 3: Use a vacuum to dry out the area
A memory foam mattress can quickly absorb moisture, sucking it deep into the inner layers. The best way to dry it is to get a vacuum and run the nozzle over the wet areas, drying them in the process.
Step 4: Use a hairdryer for spot drying
Where the mattress is wet in patches, using a hairdryer over the wet spots can dry it out evenly.
Step 5: Spread cat litter
If you are wondering how to dry a mattress that got wet in a rain storm, spreading cat litter over the mattress surface can do the trick.
Cover the cat litter with a towel and press it on the wet area. Then vacuum the cat litter to remove moisture.
Step 6: Prevent mold formation
Wet mattresses, if not treated right away, can become moldy. To prevent mold formation, take a solution of rubbing alcohol and water, soak a towel in it and wipe the towel over the wet areas.
Rubbing alcohol helps disinfect the mattress and prevents molds, mildew, and other bacteria from forming on the mattress's surface. Also, the alcohol evaporates quickly, speeding up the mattress drying process.
Step 7: Prop the mattress and put it under a fan
Even when the mattress feels dry on the surface, it can still be moist inside, which can cause mold and bacteria formation. To thoroughly dry the mattress, prop the mattress against the wall or any stable surface and position the fan towards the wet area.
Leave the fan on for 6 to 8 hours until the mattress feels completely dry. You can also put on a dehumidifier near the mattress to speed up the drying process.
Step 8: Dry it out in the sun
After soaking up the moisture, you can put your mattress in the sun to let it dry naturally. Sun rays can remove the musty odor and kill bacteria while drying out the mattress completely.
Frequently asked questions
How to dry a mattress after cleaning?
After cleaning, you can sprinkle a layer of baking soda on the wet mattress surface and allow it to soak up the excess moisture. Then vacuum the baking soda off the mattress to dry it. You can also put the mattress under a fan indoors or out in the sun to allow it to dry completely.
How to dry a wet mattress from rain?
You can remove the excess moisture from a rain-soaked mattress with the help of a clean, dry towel. Then vacuum the wet area or put the mattress under a fan for quick drying. Drying the mattress out in the sun can also remove the musty smell and prevent bacteria and mold formation.
How to dry a mattress fast?
A wet mattress can attract bacteria and mold that can cause permanent damage. To dry a damp mattress fast, take steps to absorb the excess moisture using a towel. Then use a vacuum or hair dryer to dry the area.
Sprinkle some cat litter or baking soda over the mattress surface to soak up the moisture and put it under a fan to dry quickly.
Airing the mattress in the sun can dry it naturally while removing the musty smell and disinfecting it.
How long does it take for a mattress to dry?
If you use the process mentioned above, the mattress will take about 6-8 hours to dry completely. It can take two to three times longer if you let it air dry or use house fans to dry it indoors.
How to dry a mattress after bed-wetting?
If you find yourself with a wet mattress after a bed-wetting incident, you must act fast to prevent the mattress from getting urine stains.
To dry the mattress, sprinkle a layer of baking soda on the wet area and allow it to absorb the excess moisture. Then use a solution of vinegar and warm water to gently rub the place to get rid of the stains and urine odor.
Finally, use a hairdryer or vacuum to dry out the mattress.
Takeaway
Taking a quick approach and following the solutions mentioned above can help salvage your wet mattress, extending its lifespan.
