February 10, 2025

How to Clean Up Throw Up on Bed

Let’s face it—no one ever wants to deal with vomit, especially not on a bed. But whether it’s a sick child, a queasy pet, or an unfortunate adult mishap, you’ll eventually find yourself in the unenviable position of needing to know how to clean up throw up on bed efficiently. And if you’re reading this, well, that moment has arrived.

Take a deep breath (preferably away from the mess), grab your cleaning supplies, and follow this straightforward guide to restore your bed to its pre-disaster state.

Step 1: Act Fast and Remove Excess Mess

Time is critical. The longer vomit sits, the harder it is to clean.

Remove solid debris – Use a plastic scraper, paper towels, or disposable gloves to pick up chunks without pressing them into the fabric.
Blot, don’t rub – Gently blot excess moisture using an absorbent cloth to prevent deeper absorption into the mattress.
Air out the room – Open windows or turn on a fan to minimize odors while you work.

Step 2: Strip the Bedding and Wash It Properly

Now, get everything that’s washable straight to the laundry room.

Use hot water – Run a hot wash cycle with detergent and add white vinegar or baking soda to neutralize lingering odors.
Repeat if necessary – Stubborn smells or stains? Wash again using an enzymatic cleaner.
Check before drying – Heat can lock in stains, so confirm everything is clean before tossing it in the dryer.

For pillows and comforters: Check the care label. Some can be machine-washed, while others require spot cleaning or dry cleaning.

Step 3: Deep Clean the Mattress

If the mess reached the mattress, don’t panic. Follow these steps.

1. Blot Excess Moisture Immediately

Using a microfiber cloth or paper towels, absorb as much moisture as possible. Avoid rubbing to prevent deeper penetration.

2. Apply a Cleaning Solution

Pick one of these DIY solutions:

White vinegar & water (1:1 ratio) – Ideal for disinfecting and deodorizing.
Mild dish soap & warm water – Gentle yet effective for stain removal.
Hydrogen peroxide & baking soda – Great for tough stains (best for light-colored mattresses).

Dab the stain with a cloth soaked in your chosen solution. Do not oversaturate the mattress.

3. Deodorize with Baking Soda

Sprinkle a heavy layer of baking soda over the affected area. Let it sit for at least 8 hours (overnight is best) before vacuuming thoroughly.

Step 4: Disinfect and Ensure Freshness

Even if the stain appears gone, bacteria and odors can linger.

Use an enzymatic cleaner – Breaks down organic matter effectively.
Lightly spritz rubbing alcohol – Kills lingering bacteria without soaking the mattress.
Let it air dry completely – Sunlight or a fan will speed up the drying process.

Step 5: Prevent Future Incidents

Take proactive measures to minimize future cleanup headaches.

1. Get a Waterproof Mattress Protector

A simple, washable cover can prevent deep mattress stains and prolong its lifespan.

2. Keep a “Sick Kit” Handy

Store disposable gloves, paper towels, disinfectant, and plastic bags nearby for emergencies.

3. React Fast Next Time

Immediate action means easier cleanup. Consider placing towels or protective sheets under a sick person or pet to limit damage.

When to Call in the Professionals

If odors persist or stains refuse to budge, consider hiring professional cleaning services in Denver. A deep clean will restore freshness and extend the life of your mattress.