The Secret Ingredient That'll Make Your Mattress Smell Fresh

If you're looking to turn your bed's mattress into a fragrant oasis, this essential oil made from dried lavandula flowers is perfect. Add this hack to the myriad ways you can use lavender oil in the home. Lavender oil, which is known to be antibacterial, antimicrobial, antifungal, and even antiseptic, is a simple way to freshen up your mattress and get rid of unpleasant odors. What's more, for years, lavender has been common in aromatherapy and so could potentially help you achieve a better night's sleep. Further, this essential oil may also be helpful in eliminating dust mites, making your bed even cleaner.

Note that some people with allergies or sensitive skin may have a reaction to essential oils, so it's best to test an area of your mattress first before covering it entirely. As for pets, lavender oil is considered safe for dogs and could even help calm them, according to the American Kennel Club, so you won't have to worry about accidentally making your furry friend ill when they climb into bed to snuggle. Cats, however, are a different story. Per the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association, this potent oil is toxic to cats, so if you have cats in your household, this may not be the hack for you.

To freshen your mattress with lavender oil, you'll first need to dilute it. Try combining ½ cup of white vinegar and ½ cup of water into a spray bottle and adding 15 drops of the essential oil. Shake the bottle to evenly mix the solution and spritz it all over your mattress. This will help to remove any odors (thanks to lavender's antibacterial powers, per a 2020 study in the journal Molecules) and add a comforting, floral scent to your bedding. Leave your mattress uncovered for at least three hours after spraying to let it dry. Lavender oil can also be diluted with carrier oils, such as coconut oil, to help make it easier on sensitive skin.

If you're in the process of cleaning your mattress, combining baking soda with lavender oil works well for eliminating odors and getting rid of excess moisture. Stir 10 drops of the oil into ½ cup of baking soda, lightly spread it over your mattress, and vacuum it up after a few hours. With a little lavender oil, your bed should smell fresher and allow you to rest more easily.