Norwex Mattress Cleaner is much more than a mattress spray. It is a biodegradable probiotic soft-surface cleaner for fabric surfaces that cannot simply go into the washing machine, including mattresses, upholstered furniture, pet beds and stuffed animals. Its bacillus spore blend creates enzymes that help break down organic residue and freshen the fabric.
Here is the most important clarification: Norwex Mattress Cleaner is not an insecticide, a disinfectant or a traditional spot stain remover. I would not use it to treat bed bugs or promise that it kills dust mites. Its job is to help clean soft surfaces by addressing body oils, pet dander, dust mite matter and other organic material that can collect there.
That distinction makes the product easier to evaluate honestly.
My quick answer
I recommend Mattress Cleaner most for homes with pets, upholstered furniture, carpeting, mattresses and children’s stuffed toys, especially when you want a simple care step for surfaces that are difficult to wash. I do not consider it a universal first Norwex purchase. If you are building a basic cleaning system on a budget, begin with the products you will use every week and add Mattress Cleaner when soft-surface care solves a real problem in your home.
That is the same standard I use in my process for evaluating Norwex products : a good product still has to be the right product for the person buying it.
What problem Norwex Mattress Cleaner solves
Soft surfaces collect the ordinary residue of daily life. Body oils, shed skin, perspiration, saliva, pet dander and other organic material settle into mattresses, upholstery, pet beds, stuffed animals and carpeting. Vacuuming removes loose dust and hair, while Mattress Cleaner addresses the organic residue that remains on compatible fabric surfaces.
Dust mites are part of this conversation because they feed on shed skin cells and often live in bedding, mattresses, carpet and upholstered furniture. People with dust-mite allergies react to proteins found in dust mite waste and decaying bodies, not because the mites bite them. The American Lung Association’s dust mite guidance explains that ongoing exposure can matter for people who are allergic or sensitive to mites.
Mattress Cleaner is one practical part of caring for the soft surfaces where dust mite matter, pet dander and other organic material collect. It works alongside regular laundering, vacuuming, dust removal and humidity control.
How Norwex Mattress Cleaner works
Mattress Cleaner contains a bacillus spore blend, a non-food probiotic that creates enzymes. Those enzymes help break down organic material and contaminants on soft surfaces.
The formula helps reduce non-living matter and allergens such as dust mite matter and pet dander. It also helps reduce odors connected with urine, saliva and perspiration. I describe the product this way because it is accurate; I do not call it a spray that hunts down or kills dust mites.
This is also why I think of Mattress Cleaner as a maintenance product. It works best as a light, regular treatment for suitable soft surfaces, not as a dramatic rescue product for every stain, odor or pest problem.
What Norwex Mattress Cleaner does not do
• It is not an insecticide or a treatment for bed bugs.
• I do not describe it as a product that kills dust mites.
• It is not a surface disinfectant.
• It is not positioned as a spot stain remover for old or visible stains.
• It does not replace regular laundering, vacuuming or other dust-management habits.
I am spelling out those limits because honest product education matters. A product can be useful without asking it to do a job it was not designed to do.
Where to use Norwex Mattress Cleaner
Mattress Cleaner is useful on many non-washable soft surfaces throughout the home:
• Mattresses, including foam mattresses
• Pillows and comforters
• Sofas, cushions and other upholstered furniture
• Compatible carpeting, especially in rooms where pets spend time
• Stuffed toys
• Curtains
• Car seats
• Pet beds
Use it on cotton, canvas, polyester and rayon. Do not use it on silk or wool. Always follow the item’s manufacturer instructions, especially for mattresses, upholstered furniture, carpeting and child car seats. If you are uncertain about a fabric, test a small inconspicuous area first and do not saturate it.
In homes with pets, I treat carpeting as a maintenance use rather than a stain-removal job. Vacuum first to remove hair and loose debris, then use a light spray only on compatible carpet. For a visible pet accident or stain, use a cleaner and method designed for that specific job.
How to use Norwex Mattress Cleaner
Use Mattress Cleaner this way:
1. Shake the bottle before using.
2. Remove the linens from the mattress or pillow.
3. Spray the surface lightly. Do not saturate it.
4. Allow the treated surface to air-dry for four hours before making the bed with clean sheets.
5. Wait six to eight hours before allowing children to play with treated items such as stuffed toys.
How many sprays to use
| Item | Amount to use | |
| Single or twin bed | 5 to 6 sprays | |
| Double or full bed | 7 to 8 sprays | |
| Queen bed | 9 to 10 sprays | |
| King bed | 10 to 12 sprays | |
| Pillow | 1 to 2 sprays | |
| Stuffed animal | 2 sprays |
Treat a bed once a month for routine cleaning. Households managing heavier dust concerns may choose to use it more often. Store the bottle in a frost-free place and out of direct sunlight.
What is in the formula
The ingredient list is short: water; plant-based isopropylideneglycerol as a solvent cleaner; plant-based tetrasodium glutamate diacetate as a chelator; a bacillus spore blend as the non-food probiotic that breaks down organic stains and odors; plant-based propanediol as a solvent; and plant-based citric acid to adjust pH.
The formula contains 54% USDA Certified Biobased content. It is biodegradable, dermatologist-tested, suitable for sensitive skin and formulated without SLS or SLES, phosphates, parabens and synthetic fragrances. Formulated without synthetic fragrance does not necessarily mean the liquid has no noticeable ingredient scent.
How Mattress Cleaner fits into a healthier-home routine
If dust or dust-mite allergens are a concern in your home, use Mattress Cleaner as one part of a consistent routine. Launder bedding regularly according to its care label, use allergen-resistant mattress and pillow covers when appropriate, control indoor humidity, vacuum with a well-maintained filter and remove dust with a damp cloth or microfiber so less of it becomes airborne.
You do not have to perfect every part of that routine at once. Begin with the step that solves the clearest problem in your home, make it sustainable and build from there.
My honest verdict
Norwex Mattress Cleaner is a specialty soft-surface cleaner with a clear job: helping clean and freshen hard-to-wash fabrics where organic material and odors collect. One bottle can be useful far beyond the mattress, and the monthly routine takes only a few minutes of hands-on time.
I think it is especially worthwhile for homes with pets, children, upholstered furniture, carpeting or a specific concern about dust mite matter and dander. I would place it lower on the list for someone who is new to Norwex, has a tight budget or needs a versatile everyday cleaning system first. My guide to the best Norwex products for beginners explains where I would begin instead.
You can read my practical Norwex buying guide for beginners if you are still deciding which products should come first.
Frequently asked questions
Does Norwex Mattress Cleaner kill dust mites
No. Mattress Cleaner is not an insecticide or pest-control product. Its probiotic blend creates enzymes that help break down organic material and reduce non-living dust mite matter, pet dander and other contaminants.
Can I use it on a foam mattress
Yes. Mattress Cleaner can be used on foam mattresses. Follow the mattress manufacturer’s care instructions, spray lightly and allow four hours of air-drying time before remaking the bed.
Can I use Norwex Mattress Cleaner on carpet
Yes, on compatible carpeting. I find this especially useful in homes with pets, where dander and other organic material collect in the fibers. Vacuum first, check the carpet manufacturer’s care instructions, test a hidden area and spray lightly. Do not use Mattress Cleaner on wool carpet, and use a dedicated stain-removal method for visible pet accidents.
How often should I spray my mattress
Treat your mattress once a month for routine cleaning. A queen mattress needs only 9 to 10 light sprays, so more product is not better.
Will it remove urine stains
The formula helps reduce odors from urine, saliva and perspiration, but it is not positioned as a visible-stain remover. Treat a stain with a product and method appropriate for that fabric, and always follow the manufacturer’s care instructions.
Can I use it on children’s stuffed animals
Yes, on suitable fabrics. Use two sprays, do not saturate the toy and wait six to eight hours before allowing children to play with it. Do not use Mattress Cleaner on silk or wool.
If you have a question about a particular mattress, fabric or pet bed, send me a note before you spray it. I would rather help you confirm the surface than have you guess.
~ Suzanne
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where in canada can i buy this mattress spray?
I bought the mattress cleaner and then we forgot it in the car in freezing weather for three days. Is it still going to work or did I kill all the enzymes?
Mattress Cleaner should be stored in a frost-free location. I cannot confirm that a bottle that has frozen will perform as intended. If your product freezes, contact Norwex Customer Care with the bottle or lot information before using it or deciding whether it needs to be replaced.
Since the mattress cleaner available at the moment does not include a sprayer, I wondered can we pour the mattress cleaner liquid in and simply use the Norwex sprayer bottle in order to spray the mattress cleaner liquid onto whatever we need to spray? If so, can we use the sprayer bottle as the storage for the mattress cleaner as well?
Keep Mattress Cleaner in its original labeled container unless the current product directions specifically authorize transferring it. If you need a replacement sprayer, contact Norwex Customer Care for the appropriate option. I would not recommend long-term storage in an unlabeled or unverified container.
Can I use the mattress spray to freshen bed sheets And pillow cases?
I am wondering if you can use the Norwex mattress spray on cloth diapers?
I would not recommend Mattress Cleaner as a routine treatment for cloth diapers. Cloth diapers are washable items and should be cleaned according to the diaper manufacturer’s laundering and care instructions. Mattress Cleaner is not an insecticide and should not be described as eliminating or killing dust mites.
What is the shelf life of an unopened bottle of mattress cleaner?
Hi Chloe, I cannot verify the effectiveness of an older bottle based only on whether it has been opened. Follow the current product label and any expiration or storage information on the packaging. Store Mattress Cleaner in a frost-free location away from direct sunlight. If the bottle is several years old or its condition is uncertain, contact Norwex Customer Care before using it.
Hello,
Am I able to use the spray on clothing? I have a wool jacket that you cant throw in the wash. I tried having my wool jacket dry cleaned but it has a leather lining and may shrink! I didn’t want to risk it.
I don’t believe that is an approved use for it.
I have never used Norwex Mattress Cleaner to clean our mattresses but after reading this review I think I may give it a try, it takes me a bit long time to clean our mattresses
Hi Suzanne, I have just become a Norwex independent sales consultant in New Zealand. I love all the products so much and was so impressed with your website that I used your review to sell 4 bottles of Mattress Cleaner at my first party!!! Are you OK if I share links to your site with my customers?
Hi Cassandra, I’m glad the article helped you explain the product clearly. You are welcome to share links to Healthy Home Cleaning with your customers. My goal is to provide accurate, practical product education so people can decide whether a Norwex product is genuinely right for their needs.
Editor’s note from Suzanne (October 2026): The shopping link and email address originally included in this reply are no longer active. You can shop for Norwex products through my current site at norwex.com/suzanneholt.
Hi, I’m thinking of purchasing an upholstered bed head and was wondering if the spray would be safe and effective to use on it?
Mattress Cleaner may be used on compatible upholstered surfaces made from cotton, canvas, polyester or rayon. Do not use it on silk or wool. Always follow the furniture manufacturer’s care instructions, test a small hidden area, apply only a light mist and do not saturate the fabric or cushioning.
Hey there,
Just wondering if this product is safe to use while pregnant. I am 10 and I have terrible allergies to dust. I just want to make sure it’s okay for expecting Mums.
Thanks
Megan
October 2026 update: This older answer is no longer current. Please see Suzanne’s updated guidance below.
Editor’s note from Suzanne (October 2026): For questions about using a cleaning product during pregnancy, review the current product label and ingredient information and speak with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns. I do not make individual medical-safety recommendations.
I have recently used the mattress spray on my 1 yr old select comfort bed. I did take off the waterproof cover and washed it with my sheets. I have found since then that a Norwex consultant said to NEVER use the spray on any memory foam bedding or foam bedding. She said that it voids the warranty. Her reasoning is that the enzymes break down the materials. I did have success with my dust mite allergies using the spray. I don’t want to damage my very expensive bed. What are your thoughts? Thank you.
Mattress Cleaner can be used on foam mattresses, but always follow the mattress manufacturer’s care instructions first. Test a small, inconspicuous area, apply only a light mist and do not saturate the foam. Allow the mattress to air-dry for four hours before remaking the bed. Because product directions and mattress materials can change, rely on the current product label and the updated article above rather than older comment guidance.
A bit confused. Why does your catalogue say not for use on foam yet you say it is okay to use on foam.
Mattress Cleaner can be used on foam mattresses, but the mattress manufacturer’s care instructions should always come first. Test a small, hidden area, use only a light mist, do not saturate the foam and allow four hours for the mattress to air-dry before replacing the bedding.
I appreciate the questions and responses above (the two times I’ve used the spray so far, it’s been with the mesh over the tip.) The spray itself really fills my house with a strong odor, so I open windows. Is it safe to breathe it in? (And do you know why it smells so strong?)
Editor’s note from Suzanne (October 2026): Mattress Cleaner is formulated without synthetic fragrance, but its ingredients may still have a noticeable scent. Follow the product directions, apply only a light mist and ventilate the room while the surface dries. Do not intentionally inhale the spray mist. Anyone with asthma, respiratory sensitivities or concerns about exposure should consult their healthcare provider before use.
Question on the mattress cleaner–My daughter’s mattress has an old vomit stain. Will this help clean that off? Thanks
Mattress Cleaner may help reduce odors connected with organic residue, but it is not positioned as a visible-stain remover. Treat an old vomit stain with a cleaning product and method appropriate for that mattress material, and always follow the mattress manufacturer’s care instructions.
Does this work for bed bugs as well?
Unfortunately no, the Norwex Mattress Spray does NOT kill bed bugs, as it isn’t an insecticide.
Deja,
Thank you for the reply. One more question, can the spray be used on carpet? I am wondering if it can get that musty smell out of the carpet in our apartment, it is very thick and seems to trap scents unfortunately well 🙂
Mattress Cleaner may be used on compatible carpeting, but not on wool carpet. Vacuum first, follow the carpet manufacturer’s care instructions, test a hidden area and apply only a light mist without saturating the fibers. Use a product and method designed for the specific problem when treating visible stains, pet accidents, moisture or mold.
I have an odd question…does the mattress spray do anything for mold inside plush things such as stuffed animals or mattresses? If not, is there another Norwex product that does?
Rachel, unfortunately none of the Norwex products are designed to eliminate mold, especially not mold that is growing inside plush items – sorry 🙁
The Norwex Mattress Cleaner says to shake well before using. I shook the container well, but when I sprayed it on my bed it didn’t come out as a mist. It was more gloppy. How is it supposed to come out of the sprayer?
This reply describes an older sprayer design that may not match current packaging. Shake Mattress Cleaner before use and use only the sprayer supplied or recommended for the current product. If it does not produce a light mist, stop rather than overapplying the product and contact Norwex Customer Care for help with the sprayer.
Hi,
When I received my Norwex Mattress Cleaner, it was frozen. Will this reduce the effectiveness of it? Do I need to ask for a new bottle? I haven’t opened it yet.
Thanks!
Mattress Cleaner should be stored in a frost-free location. I cannot verify that a bottle that has frozen will remain fully effective. Contact Norwex Customer Care with the bottle or lot information before using it or requesting a replacement.
Can you use the Norwex Mattress cleaning spray for your mattress and then cover it with a enclosed mattress cover? will it mold or not work if its enclosed?
Barb, After applying Mattress Cleaner, allow the mattress to air-dry completely for at least four hours before replacing bedding or enclosing it in a mattress cover. Follow both the mattress and cover manufacturers’ care instructions, and never enclose a mattress while it is damp. Mattress Cleaner is not a mold-prevention product.
Hi Deja, you mention the Norwex Mattress Spray should be stored at a cool temperature while in the bottle, once sprayed on the mattress is it ok to use an electric blanket or will this harm the enzymes?
I cannot verify how heat from an electric blanket affects Mattress Cleaner, and I would not rely on the older explanation that enzymes “work their way down” into the mattress. Apply the product lightly, allow the mattress to air-dry completely for four hours, and then follow the mattress and electric-blanket manufacturers’ safety and care instructions.
I have a 4 inch memory foam pad over the top of my mattress. Can I just spray the cleaner and will this cleaner kill the dust mites on the memory foam?
Mattress Cleaner can be used on foam mattresses, but follow the mattress manufacturer’s care instructions first. Test a small, inconspicuous area, apply only a light mist, do not saturate the foam and allow four hours of air-drying time before remaking the bed.
Why is its instruction provides that do not use on latex or foam mattresses?
Some foam mattress makers say that enzyme products should not be used on them.
I have a memory foam mattress that has had a water proof zipped mattress pad completely around the mattress and bottom “springs”. for the 2 years we have had it. Can dust mites get in side of them? This was put on when they delivered it and then I had 90 days to return the mattress if I didn’t like it. My husband snores a lot and has asthma. I have a lot of itching! I have had the mattress cleaner for a year and never used it! I love this site! I now know how to use this product.
Lynn, I’m so happy to hear that the information on my blog is helping you with your Norwex products! I had to do a little research to find the answer to your question about your mattress cover. Not all mattress covers protect from dust mites, and there are a few things to look for when purchasing one:
If dust-mite allergens are a concern, choose a mattress cover specifically labeled or certified for allergen protection and follow its manufacturer’s instructions. I would not select a cover based on an older pore-size recommendation alone. Mattress Cleaner can be one part of a regular cleaning routine, but it is not a medical treatment. Anyone experiencing asthma symptoms, persistent itching or other health concerns should speak with a healthcare provider.
Can you the Mattress Cleaner on Memory Foam?
Mattress Cleaner can be used on foam mattresses and mattress toppers, but always check the manufacturer’s care instructions first. Test a hidden area, spray lightly without saturating the foam and allow four hours of air-drying time before replacing bedding.
Hi, I was wondering if I can use the Norwex Mattress Cleaner on my downed comforter? Thanks!
Mattress Cleaner may be used on a compatible comforter only when its manufacturer’s care instructions allow it. Test a small hidden area, apply a very light mist without saturating the filling and allow it to dry completely before use. Do not use Mattress Cleaner on silk or wool.
I just received my mattress cleaner. It does not have zinc or the microorganisms in the ingredient list. I know it used to say microorganisms
Have they changed the formulation. Now there is just enzymes.
How would we know if it works the same as before. Also the bottle says nothing about dust mites.
Microorganisms and enzymes are not the same thing. The current Mattress Cleaner formula contains a bacillus spore blend—a non-food probiotic—that creates enzymes. Those enzymes help break down organic material on compatible soft surfaces. Always rely on the current ingredient list and product information rather than this older reply.
Hi,
I noticed in your reply to the woman who asked if she needed to pull up the carpet and spray the pad directly that you said that the product would work through to the pad. Wouldn’t that be the case too if you sprayed the sheets on your bed rather than removing them and spraying the mattress directly. Also, if you use it on the bedding will it get washed away when you launder it?
Mattress Cleaner is not an insecticide and should not be described as killing dust mites. Its probiotic blend creates enzymes that help break down non-living organic material, including dust mite matter. Sheets and other washable bedding should be laundered regularly according to their care labels; Mattress Cleaner is intended primarily for compatible soft surfaces that are difficult to wash.
Hi!
Can you tell me what the shelf-life is for Norwex Mattress cleaner? Thank you so much!
Pam
October 2026 update: This older shelf-life answer is no longer current. Please see Suzanne’s updated guidance below and rely on the current product packaging.
Shelf-life and storage information can change as a product is reformulated or repackaged. Please rely on the current product label and packaging rather than this older reply. Store Mattress Cleaner in a frost-free location away from direct sunlight, and contact Norwex Customer Care if you are uncertain about the age or condition of a bottle.
I am allergic to dust mites pretty badly. While I was pregnant, I packed away my pre-pregnancy clothes and now that I’m losing the weight I took them out and washed/dried them last night. Tried to wear a shirt this morning and started sneezing, getting hot and having trouble breathing. Then I realized what I had done. Anyway, would this spray work on clothes do you think? I have read I can freeze the clothes but wouldn’t that just **kill** them and not remove the feces/pieces of them that cause allergies? What is your advice?
I would not recommend spraying Mattress Cleaner on clothing as a way to manage allergy symptoms. Clothing should be laundered according to its care label. Mattress Cleaner is a soft-surface cleaning product—not a medical treatment—and it should not be presented as preventing or treating allergy flare-ups. Anyone experiencing breathing problems or significant allergy symptoms should speak with a healthcare provider.
I saw that this product contains zinc. Are there any nanoparticles in it? Can it be used on baby toys?
Mattress Cleaner may be used on compatible stuffed toys, but I would not apply it to toys or parts of toys intended to go into a child’s mouth. Follow the toy manufacturer’s care instructions, use only two light sprays, do not saturate the toy and wait six to eight hours before returning it to the child. Do not use Mattress Cleaner on silk or wool.
Hello,
Would you mind explaining to me just how you use it? I understand that I spray the mattress and the mattress cover, then wait about 4 hours before remaking the bed with the just washed in hot water sheets and blanket. But what about our comforter? After I spray it, will I want to go ahead and use it too while the spray is doing its thing or should we wait several days? We use the comforter on top of a light blanket. It doesn’t come in contact with all of our body but certainly our face and neck and hands.
Also, is it best to wash the mattress cover, and comforter (it’s down alternative) first along with the sheets and blanket and then spray them along with the mattress itself?
Thanks so much. It’s been hard to find the answer on line.
This older reply contains directions and claims that are no longer current. Apply Mattress Cleaner only as a light mist and do not saturate the surface. Allow a treated mattress or pillow to air-dry for four hours before use, and wait six to eight hours before returning a treated stuffed toy to a child. Wash removable bedding according to its care label. Mattress Cleaner is not an insecticide and should not be described as killing dust mites. I also do not claim that its enzymes remain alive in a mattress or duvet for four to six months. Please follow the current instructions in the updated article above.
Thank you for including so much information on your site. I have recently ordered Norwex mattress cleaner from a local mom and was hoping to use it on a section of carpet that was spilled on several days and is now beginning to smell mildewy.
I believe I will try it, but am hoping you can tell me if I should pull up the carpet to spray the carpet pad too? And, perhaps the wood underneath as well?
Thank you!
Do not assume Mattress Cleaner will travel through carpeting and treat the carpet pad or subfloor. For compatible carpeting, vacuum first, test a hidden area and apply only a light surface mist without saturating it. A persistent musty smell may indicate trapped moisture or mold that requires identifying and correcting the source. Mattress Cleaner is not a mold-remediation product and should not be used as a substitute for properly drying or professionally evaluating damp carpet and padding.
I recently purchased the Norwex Mattress Cleaner, SOO excited to use it! I sprayed my mattress, pillows, foam padding, feather bed… After about 48 hours everything I had sprayed now has yellow spots all over. How come the spray turned my bed yellow?
Oh No!!! That’s terrible Natasha 🙁 I’ve never heard of this happening before… yellow spots – the Norwex Mattress Spray is one of my most popular sellers, and this is the first time I’ve heard of this issue. You need to contact the Norwex consultant who you purchased your Mattress Spray from, and she will be able to get you a replacement bottle. In the meantime, I’m going to investigate a bit, and see if I can find out what might have caused the yellow spots. If you find out, please let me know!
The yellow may have to do with what was on your mattress before the spray. eg if your mattress was a bit dirty, the mattress spray may have just diluted that and dried in a way that it collected the dirt in spots. You should have wiped down the mattress first (just lightly, just to wipe off the layer of dust/dirt) before spraying it w the spray.