Over time, mattresses can harbor odors, moisture, and dust that disrupt a good night’s sleep. Despite regular sheets and pillowcase changes, the surface underneath often goes unnoticed. But freshening your mattress doesn’t require harsh chemicals or expensive sprays. With just a few natural ingredients from your home, you can create a powerful DIY mattress refresher that cleans, deodorizes, and soothes—leaving your bed smelling fresh and feeling clean.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make and use your own natural mattress deodorizer using baking soda and essential oils. It’s simple, safe, and highly effective. We’ll also share expert tips to enhance its performance and answer frequently asked questions at the end.
Why Use a DIY Mattress Refresher?
Mattresses absorb more than just sweat—they trap skin cells, pet dander, dust mites, and moisture. These can lead to odors, allergens, and even bacteria buildup. While professional mattress cleaning is an option, it can be costly and inconvenient.
This homemade refresher is an easy, budget-friendly alternative. It helps:
- Neutralize odors caused by sweat, spills, and body oils
- Absorb moisture trapped in the fabric and foam
- Repel dust mites and bacteria with natural essential oils
- Promote relaxation with calming scents like lavender or eucalyptus
The beauty of this method lies in its simplicity: no artificial fragrances, no toxic chemicals—just a few pantry staples and a vacuum.
What You’ll Need
This refresher requires only four everyday items:
- Baking Soda: A natural deodorizer and moisture absorber that’s gentle and non-toxic.
- Essential Oil: Adds scent and optional antibacterial benefits. Choose based on your preference or specific needs.
- Jar with Lid: For mixing and storing your refresher powder.
- Vacuum Cleaner: To remove the mixture from the mattress surface.
Let’s break down the role of each ingredient:
Baking Soda
This pantry staple does double duty—neutralizing odors and pulling moisture out of soft surfaces. It’s safe for use on mattresses and won’t stain or bleach fabrics.
Essential Oils
The right oil can make your bed smell like a spa while offering natural antimicrobial benefits. Popular options include:
- Lavender oil – Calming, perfect for sleep support
- Tea tree oil – Antibacterial, antifungal, and insect-repelling
- Eucalyptus oil – Refreshing and great for allergy relief
- Lemon or orange oil – Uplifting, ideal for brightening your bedroom scent
Tip: If you’re sensitive to scents or allergies, start with fewer drops or test a small mattress area first.
Jar with Lid
Any clean, dry container with a tight-fitting lid will work—glass, plastic, or even a shaker jar from your spice rack. This allows you to mix and store the powder for future use.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Mix the Ingredients
In a clean jar, add 1 cup of baking soda. Then drop in 4 to 5 drops of your chosen essential oil. Seal the jar and shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds. This helps distribute the oil evenly throughout the baking soda.
Tip: For an even stronger scent, let the mixture sit sealed overnight before using it.
Apply the Powder to the Mattress
Remove all bedding so the mattress is fully exposed. Use a sifter, mesh strainer, or your fingers to sprinkle the powder evenly across the mattress surface. Focus especially on the areas where your body usually rests—this is where odors and moisture tend to build up.
One batch of this mixture is typically enough for half of a king-sized mattress. Double the recipe for larger beds or heavier application.
Pro Tip: You can also apply the powder to pillows, couch cushions, or pet beds using the same method.
Let It Sit
Allow the mixture to sit for at least 1 hour, though 2–3 hours is even better if time allows. During this time, the baking soda absorbs moisture, odors, and oils from the fabric.
You may notice a subtle scent spreading through the room as the essential oil activates with air exposure.
Tip: Leave a window open or turn on a fan to help disperse any dust or scent.
Vacuum Thoroughly
Using a vacuum with a clean upholstery attachment, vacuum the entire surface of the mattress. Make slow, overlapping passes to ensure you remove all baking soda residue.
It’s important to remove the powder thoroughly to avoid any buildup or grittiness when you replace your sheets.
Additional Tips for Maximum Effectiveness
- Repeat Monthly: Use this refresher once every 3 to 4 weeks for best results, or more frequently during hot, humid months.
- Use Fresh Baking Soda: For maximum deodorizing power, make sure your baking soda hasn’t expired or absorbed odors from your pantry.
- Clean Mattress Stains First: If you have visible stains, spot clean with a mixture of water and mild detergent before applying the baking soda.
- Store Extra Mix: Double or triple the recipe and keep it sealed in a cool, dry place for quick future use.
- Don’t Overuse Oils: Too much essential oil can cause overpowering scents or minor discoloration on light fabrics. Stick to 4–5 drops per cup.
Natural Variations and Upgrades
If you want to take this DIY even further, consider these enhancements:
- Add cornstarch: Mix in ¼ cup of cornstarch for added moisture absorption.
- Use a shaker bottle: Repurpose a Parmesan or spice shaker for easier application.
- Layer scents: Mix lavender and eucalyptus for both calming and refreshing effects.
- Include dried herbs: Dried lavender or chamomile buds add texture and scent.
FAQs
Can I use this on memory foam mattresses?
Yes. This refresher is safe for memory foam, latex, and traditional spring mattresses. Just ensure it’s vacuumed thoroughly so powder doesn’t build up in foam cells.
How often should I deodorize my mattress?
Once a month is ideal, but you can refresh more often if your mattress is exposed to pets, children, or spills.
Will baking soda leave a residue on the mattress?
Not if you vacuum thoroughly. Use a brush attachment and go over the mattress a few times to pick up all the powder.
Can I use any essential oil I like?
Absolutely. Just avoid oils with dark colors or sticky residues (like patchouli), which may stain light-colored fabrics. Always use high-quality essential oils.
Does this kill bacteria or dust mites?
Essential oils like tea tree and eucalyptus have antimicrobial and dust mite-repelling properties. While it’s not a substitute for deep disinfection, this DIY does reduce the bacterial and fungal load on the mattress surface.
Is this safe for babies and pets?
It depends on the oil used. Avoid strong oils like peppermint or eucalyptus near babies and small pets. For baby mattresses, use baking soda alone or consult your pediatrician before applying essential oils.
Can I skip the essential oil and just use baking soda?
Yes. Baking soda alone will still deodorize and absorb moisture. The oil simply enhances the scent and adds mild antimicrobial benefits.
Conclusion
Refreshing your mattress doesn’t require a trip to the store or a professional cleaning service. With just baking soda, essential oils, and a vacuum, you can create a simple, affordable solution that keeps your bed smelling clean and promotes restful sleep. Whether you’re dealing with lingering sweat smells, dampness, or general stale odor, this natural refresher gets the job done—without toxic chemicals or synthetic fragrances.
Plus, the calming scent of essential oils like lavender can turn your mattress-cleaning routine into a soothing, spa-like experience. Try it once, and it might just become part of your regular bedroom upkeep.
DIY Mattress Refresher Recap
Supplies Needed:
- 1 cup baking soda
- 4–5 drops essential oil (lavender, tea tree, eucalyptus, etc.)
- Jar with lid
- Vacuum cleaner
Instructions:
- Mix baking soda and essential oil in a jar.
- Shake well to blend the mixture evenly.
- Sprinkle over your mattress.
- Let it sit for at least 1 hour.
- Vacuum thoroughly.
Time Required: 10 minutes prep, 1–2 hours wait
Skill Level: Beginner
Method: Natural deodorizing powder
Best For: All mattress types
Use Frequency: Monthly or as needed