Baking soda for mattress odours: what may help and when to stop

Baking soda may help some lingering odours

Baking soda may help some lingering mattress odours, as IKEA suggests. A fresher smell is not proof that stains, moisture inside the mattress or contamination have been removed. If odour or dampness persists, pause and reassess rather than automatically repeat home treatment.

Check the mattress and cover care instructions

Start with your mattress's own handling and care instructions. IKEA recommends checking them because requirements differ between mattress types. Advice for one type should not be treated as permission to use the same approach on another.

If your mattress has a removable cover, follow its own care instructions, as IKEA advises. A washable cover does not mean that the mattress underneath can also be washed.

Plan powder removal before applying baking soda

Before applying baking soda, check whether your vacuum's instructions allow it to collect fine powder. IKEA Canada's instructions describe a modest application, a one-hour wait and powder removal afterwards; do not assume the same amount or timing suits every mattress. IKEA's separate mattress-vacuuming advice specifies a handheld brush-head attachment and the lowest speed. That advice does not establish that your vacuum is suitable for fine powder.

Keep dry freshening separate from wet stain treatment

If your mattress's instructions allow wet stain treatment, IKEA advises treating stubborn stains individually rather than soaking the whole mattress, and dabbing rather than rubbing. It warns that excessive water can damage foam structure.

Let foam dry completely, away from direct sunlight

IKEA advises letting foam mattresses dry completely with good air circulation, away from direct sunlight. It warns that excessive water can leave moisture trapped inside for a prolonged period, so do not assume that a set number of hours is enough.

Stop home freshening if you suspect mould

IKEA France advises replacing a mattress when mould is extensive or deep, noting a high risk of recurrence.

Use washable mattress protection

For ongoing care, use washable mattress protection, as IKEA recommends, to keep the mattress cleaner and reduce how often it needs cleaning.