How to Dry a Wet Mattress in Longview: A Step-by-Step Guide A wet mattress is more than just an inconvenience—it can quickly become a breeding ground for mold, bacteria, and unpleasant odors. Whether your mattress has been soaked due to a spill, flooding, or pet accident, acting quickly is key to salvaging it. Longview’s humid climate can make drying a mattress a challenge, but with the right techniques, you can prevent long-term damage. Follow this step-by-step guide to properly dry your wet mattress and restore it to a clean, comfortable condition. A Personal Experience: Why Drying Your Mattress Matters A long time ago, when my wife and I were much younger, we had been out on vacation visiting family. When we returned home, we discovered that part of our roof had collapsed under the weight of the snow. As we walked into the bedroom, we were met with the sight of our king-size mattress—fully saturated with water. Knowing that water weighs about 62.4 lbs per cubic foot, and that a typical deep pillow-top mattress is about 56 cubic feet, I quickly did the math—our mattress was holding nearly 2,000 lbs of water! There was no way we were going to sleep on that bed. Hopefully, you’ll never have to deal with a mattress this wet, but it’s important to know how to dry one if disaster strikes. Here’s what you need to do. Why It’s Important to Dry a Mattress Quickly Leaving moisture trapped in a mattress can lead to: • Mold and mildew growth within 24–48 hours • Persistent odors that are difficult to remove • Structural damage that weakens the mattress • Health risks, including allergies and respiratory issues Step 1: Remove Excess Moisture Immediately Start by blotting up as much moisture as possible using clean, absorbent towels. Apply firm pressure to draw out water, but avoid rubbing, as this can push moisture deeper into the mattress. If the mattress is heavily soaked, consider using a wet/dry vacuum to extract excess liquid. This step is crucial in preventing prolonged saturation. Step 2: Elevate the Mattress for Air Circulation Move the mattress to a dry, well-ventilated area and prop it up on its side using chairs or sawhorses. This allows air to circulate freely around it, speeding up the drying process. If the mattress is too heavy to move, place fans around it and lift it slightly using books or blocks to improve airflow underneath. Step 3: Use Fans and Dehumidifiers Since Longview’s damp climate can slow down drying, use high-powered fans and a dehumidifier to remove moisture from the air. Position the fans to blow directly onto the wet areas and leave them running for at least 24 hours. Step 4: Apply Baking Soda to Absorb Moisture Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the wet areas to absorb any remaining moisture and neutralize odors. Let it sit for a few hours before vacuuming it up using a HEPA-filtered vacuum. Step 5: Sun-Dry When Possible If the weather permits, move the mattress outdoors in direct sunlight. Sunlight is a natural disinfectant that helps kill bacteria and mold spores while speeding up drying. Flip the mattress occasionally to ensure even drying on both sides. Step 6: Check for Mold and Odors After drying, inspect the mattress closely for any lingering smells or signs of mold, such as dark spots or fuzz. If you detect mold growth, use a mild hydrogen peroxide solution (3%) and dab the affected area with a clean cloth. For persistent odors, try using an enzymatic cleaner designed for mattresses, especially if pet urine was involved. When to Call a Professional Mattress Cleaner in Longview If your mattress is still damp after 48 hours, or if you notice a musty smell, it’s time to call a professional. At PUIRI, we offer expert mattress cleaning and drying services in Longview, helping to restore your mattress safely and effectively. Don’t Let a Wet Mattress Ruin Your Sleep A wet mattress doesn’t have to mean replacing it! With the right approach, you can restore it to a fresh, dry state. If you’re dealing with a water-damaged mattress in Longview, contact PUIRI today for professional drying and cleaning services. 📞 Call now or schedule an appointment online!