Mattress Care Tips to Keep Cool and Clean All Summer Long

Hot summer nights can be tough on your sleep—and even tougher on your mattress. Between increased sweating, higher humidity, and longer stretches of use (hello, lazy weekend mornings), your bed can take a real beating during the warmer months.

Taking a few simple steps to care for your mattress in summer can help keep it cool, fresh, and supportive—not to mention extend its lifespan. Here’s how to protect your sleep (and your investment) all season long.

1. Let It Breathe

Warm weather brings moisture—and your mattress needs airflow to stay dry and fresh.

• Strip your bed regularly: Letting your mattress air out for a few hours between sheet changes helps release trapped heat and humidity.
• Open windows or run fans: Boost ventilation in your bedroom, especially in the morning when humidity is lower.
• Avoid heavy bedspreads: Stick with breathable, lightweight bedding to reduce trapped body heat and moisture buildup.

2. Use a Breathable Mattress Protector

While mattress protectors are a year-round must, summer calls for something light and breathable.

• Choose a protector that blocks sweat, spills, and allergens without adding plastic-y heat. Look for moisture-wicking, waterproof options made with breathable fabric blends like bamboo or cotton.
• Wash it weekly or biweekly during the summer, especially if you’re prone to night sweats or have pets sleeping on the bed.

3. Rotate It—Yes, Even in Summer

Heat and moisture can soften certain mattress materials faster than usual. Rotating your mattress:

• Helps it wear more evenly, especially if you sleep in the same position each night.
• Reduces the development of heat-retaining body impressions.
• Aim to rotate it (head to foot) every 3–4 months. Summer is a great time to stay on schedule.

4. Keep It Clean: Vacuum and Spot Clean

In the summer, your mattress is more likely to absorb sweat, dead skin, and allergens.

• Vacuum the surface monthly using a soft brush attachment to remove dust, dander, and pollen.
• Spot clean sweat stains or spills using a light mix of warm water and mild soap or baking soda. Avoid soaking the mattress—dampness can encourage mildew.
• For odors, sprinkle baking soda over the surface, let sit for an hour or two, then vacuum thoroughly.

5. Check for Mold or Mildew in Humid Climates

If you live in a humid area or don’t have AC, be proactive about moisture control:

• Use a dehumidifier in your bedroom or a moisture-absorbing product near the bed.
• Check under and around the mattress regularly for signs of mold, especially if your bed is on the floor or lacks ventilation underneath.
• Keep your mattress off the ground. A slatted base or breathable platform encourages airflow and prevents trapped humidity.

6. Rethink Your Bedding Materials

What goes on your mattress makes a big difference in summer comfort:

• Switch to natural fibers: Sheets and toppers made from cotton, linen, or bamboo regulate temperature better than synthetics.
• Avoid thick toppers in hot months—they can trap body heat. If needed, go with a cooling topper designed for summer sleep.
• Wash your sheets frequently—ideally every 5–7 days in the summer. This helps keep your mattress fresher, longer.

7. Keep Pets (and Pool Water) Off the Bed

If your furry friend loves to nap beside you or your kids like to collapse onto the bed straight from the pool, it’s time for some ground rules.

• Place a towel down or encourage drying off before anyone (human or animal) climbs into bed.
• Wet fur, swimsuits, and sunscreen residue can transfer moisture and oils onto your mattress, leading to stains and smells.

Final Thought

Your mattress works hard—especially in the summer. But with a few easy habits, you can keep it clean, dry, and cool for many seasons to come. Treat it well, and it’ll reward you with better, fresher sleep—even on the hottest nights.