Your mattress smells like rotten eggs, and it’s driving you crazy. You want to know why your mattress is smelling so bad, but many things can cause this smell, such as pets, moisture buildup over time, or old age.
In this article, you will learn about the different reasons why a mattress smells like rotten eggs and how to determine which one is most likely the cause.
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Why does my mattress smell like rotten eggs?
One of the most common reasons could be bacteria growing in your mattress due to various factors, such as age, moisture, and improper cleaning. If you are experiencing this smell, it is important to take action to clean and protect your mattress.
The chemical name for the smell of rotten eggs is hydrogen sulfide. The decay of organic material, such as a food spill or bodily fluids, can also contribute to this awful smell.
The smell of rotten eggs is a sign of high levels of sulfur compounds in the mattress, which can be caused by mold, fungi, spores, etc.
The rotten egg smell of a mattress generally fades away in a few days, but for more severe cases, the smell may linger for a few weeks.
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How to Remove Rotten eggs Smell from Mattress
To remove the smell of rotten eggs from a mattress:
1. Place an open box of baking soda on top and leave for about three hours. Next, vacuum up the baking soda that has absorbed the smell.
2. You can also use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter. However, this requires that you have access to a vacuum cleaner.
3. Another option is to clean your mattress with baking soda and vinegar. You will mix four tablespoons of baking soda, one tablespoon of white vinegar, and enough water to form a paste. Apply the mixture to both sides of your mattress and allow it to sit for about an hour before cleaning with a damp cloth or vacuum cleaner.
4. To get rid of the rotten egg smell from a mattress, remove all the old sheets and blankets. After removing those items, put in new sheets and blankets. Once done with that, fill the mattress with baking soda and vinegar. After that, leave it for about 15 minutes.
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Effects of Rotten eggs Smell from Mattress
The odor can cause nausea and vomiting. It can also be so inescapable, causing you to avoid using your mattress for fear of being exposed to the odor or having an allergic reaction to the smell.
FAQs
Does a mattress that smells like rotten eggs have bed bugs?
No, a mattress that smells like rotten eggs does not necessarily have bed bugs, and the smell may be from the chemicals used in manufacturing or from an infestation of mold.
How do I make sure my mattress doesn’t smell like rotten eggs?
To make sure your mattress doesn’t smell like rotten eggs, try spraying your mattress with a mixture of baking soda and water. If that doesn’t work, you can get rid of the stink by boiling some vinegar in a pan for about ten minutes and then pouring it over the mattress.
One of the best ways to eliminate the smell is by vacuuming it. Then, wash the mattress with soap and water and dry it in the sun for a couple of hours. If you do not have access to the sun, the next best option is to use a dehumidifier.
What happens if you sleep on a mattress that smells like rotten eggs?
The egg’s smell can cause respiratory problems and an allergic reaction. People with asthma should stay away from it.
You can mitigate the smell of rotten eggs using a mattress cover or placing the mattress in a well-ventilated area.
Why does my old mattress smell like rotten eggs?
The most common cause of an old mattress smelling like rotten eggs is the presence of bacteria. Bacteria rot and produce hydrogen sulfide with a strong sulfur smell that smells like rotten eggs when you have a cut or scrape.
An old mattress can smell because it’s wet, has been exposed to pets or smoke, or is not properly aired out. If your old mattress has a foul odor, remove all bedding, check for mold and mildew, and steam clean the mattress. If it still smells or has a wet spot, buy a new one to avoid unhealthy effects.
You can remove the odor by airing out your bedding in direct sunlight for an hour or two, washing all the linens in hot water, and drying them on high heat.