Removing feces from a mattress is undoubtedly one of the most unpleasant tasks on any cleaning list. However, it’s crucial to address any poop stains promptly, especially when you have little ones who are still mastering their potty skills. After all, you can’t expect to get a good night’s sleep with such unsightly stains lurking nearby, and replacing the mattress every time an accident occurs simply isn’t practical.
Potty training typically begins between the ages of two and three, a time when toddlers are learning to use the toilet instead of their pants. During this transition, accidents are common, and sometimes poop ends up on your bed sheets and mattress. As a parent of a toddler, I’ve recently embarked on this journey with my youngest, David, who just turned two. Inspired by watching his older brother use the toilet, he was eager to try potty training himself. After a week of perseverance, he finally got the hang of it! Yet, we faced some rather unfortunate and odorous moments, including the inevitable pooping in bed. If only I had noticed the mess sooner, I could have prevented it from staining the mattress. This brings us to the best cleaning method for tackling poop stains: the ultimate poop removal technique.
With experience from raising my older child, I can confidently say that I’ve become quite adept at removing all kinds of awkward stains from various surfaces. While many people suggest using common household items like vinegar, baking soda, or hydrogen peroxide for stain removal, I’ve found that nothing quite compares to the effectiveness of an enzyme cleaner.
Steps to Effectively Remove Poop Stains
1. Start by carefully sweeping up as much of the fecal matter as possible, being cautious not to spread it further.
2. Remove all bedding, including sheets and anything that made contact with the poop, and place them in the washing machine. Use a warm cycle and add baking soda or Oxiclean. If you only have regular laundry detergent, mix in some baking soda directly with the sheets.
3. Take a clean towel to absorb as much of the remaining material on the mattress as you can, and toss that towel in the wash as well.
4. Prepare a mixture using equal parts of white distilled vinegar and hot water.
5. Lightly spray or dampen a clean towel with the vinegar-water mixture. Avoid applying the solution directly to the mattress, as oversaturation can lead to mold growth. Instead, dampen the towel first and then wipe down the affected area of the mattress.
6. Once the stain appears to be lifting, apply a few sprays of the enzyme cleaner to the area. Be careful not to soak the mattress; a light mist will do. Allow the enzyme cleaner to penetrate the mattress for a few minutes to reach all layers effectively.
7. Use a towel to wipe away any excess enzyme cleaner and moisture.
8. Allow the mattress to air dry for 24 hours. If possible, place the mattress outside in the sun, as sunlight greatly enhances the drying and odor-elimination process.
Recommended Enzyme Cleaners for Removing Poop Stains from Mattresses:
- Kids ‘N’ Pets Stain and Odor Remover
- Folex Carpet Cleaner
- Nature’s Miracle Stain and Odor Remover