How to Get Sunscreen Out of Mattress - Amerisleep (2025)

Summer brings fun in the sun, beach days, and poolside lounging. It also brings sunscreen—lots of it! While sunscreen protects your skin, it can create a mess on your mattress.

Even if you don’t spill any on your bed, many people don’t realize they transfer sunscreen from their skin to their mattress when they lie down without showering first. These oily stains can set quickly, making them harder to remove the longer they sit.

Sunscreen contains chemicals and oils that break down fabric fibers over time, potentially damaging your beloved mattress. Don’t let sunscreen stains ruin your summer sleep, keep reading to discover simple, effective ways to tackle these stubborn spots and save your mattress!

The Sticky Sunscreen Situation

Summer activities mean you might applysunscreenVerified SourceNational Library of Medicine (NIH)World’s largest medical library, making biomedical data and information more accessible. View sourceseveral times a day to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. After a long day at the beach or pool, you might feel tired and skip your shower before collapsing onto your bed.

Even when you think your skin is dry, sunscreen remains on your body for hours after application. The residue transfers easily to fabric surfaces like sheets, pillowcases, and eventually your mattress.

This problem gets worse when you apply sunscreen indoors and immediately sit or lie on your bed. Many sunscreen formulas now contain water-resistant properties, making them stick to your skin better—and unfortunately, to your mattress too.

The more you reapply throughout the day, the more product builds up on your skin, creating a bigger transfer risk to your bedding.

Why Sunscreen Stains Mattresses

Sunscreen containsVerified SourceEnvironmental Protection Agency (EPA)Works to control/prevent natural and manmade disasters. View sourceoils and chemicals that create stubborn stains on fabric surfaces. TheseformulasVerified SourceNational Library of Medicine (NIH)World’s largest medical library, making biomedical data and information more accessible. View sourcetypicallyincludeVerified SourceNational Library of Medicine (NIH)World’s largest medical library, making biomedical data and information more accessible. View sourceavobenzone, a common UV filter that reacts with iron in water to create rusty-colored stains.

The oils in sunscreen penetrate deep into mattress fibers, making them especially challenging to remove compared to water-based stains. Most mattresses absorb liquids quickly, allowing the sunscreen to seep beyond the surface and into the inner layers.

The chemical makeup of sunscreen breaks down natural fibers in mattress materials over time, weakening the fabric structure. Even mineral-based sunscreens can leave white, chalky residue that discolors light-colored mattresses.

The combination of oils, chemicals, and minerals creates a perfect storm for stubborn stains that won’t budge with regular cleaning methods.

Why Quick Action Matters

The longer sunscreen sits on your mattress, the deeper it penetrates the fabric and padding. Fresh lotion stains on a mattress remain on the surface where they’re much easier to treat before they set into the fibers.

Sunscreen contains oils that oxidize over time, making stains darker and more noticeable if left untreated. Quick action prevents the chemical reaction between avobenzone and water that creates those rust-colored spots on your mattress. Immediate treatment stops oils from spreading outward, which limits the size of the affected area.

Within just 24 hours, sunscreen can bond with mattress fibers, making complete removal nearly impossible. Fast response means you can often use gentler cleaning methods rather than harsh chemicals that might damage your mattress materials.

Treating stains promptly helps maintain your mattress warranty, as many manufacturers won’t cover damage from improperly cleaned stains.

Prevention Methods

Stopping sunscreen stains before they happen saves you time and protects your mattress investment. These simple prevention techniques can keep your mattress clean all summer long.

Create Protective Barriers

Adding layers between your skin and mattress creates effective barriers against sunscreen transfer. Use a flat sheet between you and your comforter, folding it over the top edge to create an “apron” effect that catches residue.

Dark-colored sheets hide stains better than white ones, making them ideal for rotation in a summer bedroom. Keep a dedicated “beach day” blanket on hand to lie on after swimming or sunbathing when you can’t shower right away.

Place towels on your bed if you need to sit down while still wearing sunscreen. Washable throw blankets work well as temporary bed covers during peak sunscreen season. Consider using older sheets during summer months to preserve your best bedding sets.

Change pillowcases more frequently during summer, as they often collect the most sunscreen residue from your face and shoulders.

Shower Before Bed

Taking a shower before bed removes sunscreen, sweat, and other products from your skin. Use body wash with surfactants that break down sunscreen oils more effectively than plain water.

Pay special attention to areas where you apply sunscreen heavily, like shoulders, neck, and face. Even a quick rinse-off makes a significant difference in reducing transfer to your mattress. If you’re too tired for a full shower, use cleansing wipes specifically designed to remove sunscreen from your skin.

Washing your hair removes spray sunscreen residue that might otherwise transfer to your pillows and eventually your mattress, just make sure to avoid sleeping with wet hair.

Evening showers not only protect your mattress but also improve sleep quality by lowering your body temperature. Make this a non-negotiable summer routine, especially on days with heavy sunscreen use.

Use Mattress Protectors

Waterproof mattress protectors create a complete barrier between your body and mattress, blocking sunscreen transfer entirely. Choose breathable, waterproof options that don’t make you feel hot while sleeping during summer nights.

Quality protectors zip completely around your mattress, guarding against spills, stains, and product residue from all sides. Look for washable protectors that you can clean weekly during heavy sunscreen season.

Some newer mattress protectors feature special stain-resistant technology that repels oily substances like sunscreen. Even basic cotton protectors provide some defense against minor transfer and make cleanup easier.

Consider doubling up with both a mattress pad and protector during peak summer months for maximum protection. Remember that protecting your mattress also preserves your warranty, as many manufacturers void coverage for stained mattresses.

Immediate Stain Treatment

Catching sunscreen stains early gives you the best chance of complete removal. These fast-action methods work best on fresh spills before they set into your mattress.

Blotting Techniques

Grab clean, white cloths or paper towels immediately when you spot sunscreen on your mattress. Press down firmly on the stain without rubbing, which pushes sunscreen deeper into the fabric.

Change to a fresh cloth section with each blot to avoid spreading the oils around. Continue blotting until no more sunscreen transfers to your cloth. Dampen a fresh cloth with cold water and blot again to pull out remaining residue.

Never use hot water, as heat sets oil-based stains and makes them permanent. Avoid colored cloths that might transfer dye to your mattress while blotting. Work from the outside edges of the stain toward the center to prevent spreading.

Follow up with a dry cloth to remove as much moisture as possible after the wet blotting stage.

Powder Absorption Method

Sprinkle absorbent powder directly onto fresh sunscreen stains to pull oils from your mattress fabric. Common household powders that work well include baking soda, cornstarch, baby powder, or even salt in a pinch.

Apply a thick layer—about ¼ inch—completely covering the stained area and extending slightly beyond the edges. Let the powder sit undisturbed for at least 8 hours or overnight to absorb as much oil as possible.

The powder will gradually change color as it pulls out the sunscreen oils. Once dry, vacuum the powder using an upholstery attachment, being careful not to push it into the fabric. Repeat with fresh powder if the stain remains visible after the first treatment.

This method works especially well on memory foam mattresses that can’t handle excessive moisture from wet cleaning methods.

Gentle Scraping Approach

For thicker sunscreen globs, grab a plastic card like an old gift card or hotel key to gently scrape away excess product. Hold the card at a 45-degree angle and work carefully to avoid pushing sunscreen deeper into the mattress fibers.

Move in one direction rather than back and forth to prevent spreading the stain. Remove scraped sunscreen from your card frequently using a paper towel. Work from the outside toward the center of the stain to contain the damage.

Never use sharp objects like knives that could tear your mattress cover. Follow scraping with either blotting or powder methods to treat remaining residue. This technique works best on newer mattresses with tighter fabric weaves that don’t allow immediate deep penetration of sunscreen.

Deep Cleaning Solutions

When quick treatments aren’t enough to remove stubborn sunscreen stains, it’s time for deeper cleaning methods. These solutions target set-in stains that need more powerful ingredients to break them down.

Dish Soap Solution

Mix one tablespoon of clear dish soap with two cups of cold water to create an effective cleaner for sunscreen stains. Dish soap works well because it’s designed to cut through greasy, oily residues just like those in sunscreen.

Dip a clean cloth into the solution and wring it out so it’s damp but not soaking wet. Gently press the cloth onto the stain, working from the outside toward the center. Avoid scrubbing harshly as this can damage mattress fibers and push the stain deeper.

After applying the soap solution, use a fresh damp cloth with only water to “rinse” the area and remove soap residue. Press dry towels firmly on the cleaned spot to absorb excess moisture.

Allow the mattress to dry completely before making the bed, using fans to speed up drying time. This method works best on fabric and pillow-top mattresses that can handle light moisture.

Baking Soda Paste

Create a thick paste by mixing baking soda with just enough water to form a spreadable consistency. This natural cleaning powerhouse draws out oils while gently scrubbing away sunscreen residue.

Apply the paste directly to the stain, covering it completely with a layer about ¼-inch thick. Gently work the paste into the stain using a soft-bristled brush or your fingertips, applying minimal pressure.

Let the paste dry completely—this usually takes 4-8 hours as the baking soda absorbs oils and moisture. Once dry, vacuum up the powder using an upholstery attachment, making several passes to remove all residue.

The stain should be noticeably lighter after this treatment. For tough stains, you might need to repeat the process once or twice. This method is particularly effective on chemical sunscreen stains that leave colored marks behind.

Vinegar Spray Method

Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle for a natural stain-fighting solution. Vinegar’s acidity helps break down sunscreen chemicals without harsh ingredients that might damage your mattress. Lightly mist the stained area—don’t soak it—just enough to dampen the surface.

Let the vinegar solution sit for 5-10 minutes to break down the stain. Blot the area with clean, dry towels, pressing firmly to absorb both the vinegar solution and dissolved sunscreen. Sprinkle baking soda over the treated area to neutralize any remaining vinegar smell and absorb leftover moisture.

Let the baking soda sit for several hours or overnight, then vacuum thoroughly. Open windows or run fans to eliminate any lingering vinegar odor while the mattress dries. This method works particularly well on mineral-based sunscreens that leave white residue behind.

Dried Sunscreen Stains

Old sunscreen stains require special treatment to break down stubborn, set-in oils and chemicals. These methods target stains that have had time to bond with mattress fibers.

Enzyme Cleaners

Enzyme-based cleaners contain special proteins that break down biological stains and oils at a molecular level. Look for products specifically labeled for oil or protein stain removal to tackle sunscreen effectively.

Test the cleaner on a hidden corner of your mattress first to ensure it doesn’t damage the fabric or color. Apply a small amount directly to the stain, following the specific product’s instructions for dwell time.

Most enzyme cleaners need 10-15 minutes to work their magic before blotting away. Avoid oversaturating your mattress as excess moisture can lead to mildew growth inside the padding. Blot the area with clean towels after treatment to remove both the cleaner and dissolved sunscreen residue.

These specialized cleaners work particularly well on older stains that have resisted basic cleaning methods. For best results, apply enzyme cleaners in a warm room, as the enzymes work more effectively at slightly higher temperatures.

Hydrogen Peroxide Method

Mix one part 3% hydrogen peroxide with two parts cold water to create a gentle bleaching solution for stubborn stains. This method works best on light-colored mattresses, as hydrogen peroxide has mild bleaching properties.

Apply the solution using a spray bottle or damp cloth, moistening the stain without soaking the mattress. Let the solution sit for no more than 5 minutes to prevent damage to mattress fibers. Blot thoroughly with clean, dry towels to remove the solution and lifted stain particles.

Sprinkle baking soda over the damp area to absorb remaining moisture and neutralize the hydrogen peroxide. Allow the mattress to dry completely with good air circulation, preferably with fans running.

Never use hydrogen peroxide at full strength or on dark-colored mattresses as it may cause discoloration. This method targets the chemical components in sunscreen that create those stubborn yellow or orange stains.

Commercial Stain Removers

Choose mattress-safe commercial stain removers specifically formulated for oil-based or cosmetic stains. Always read product labels carefully to confirm they’re safe for fabric surfaces and won’t void your mattress warranty.

Apply the product according to package directions, typically using a clean cloth rather than spraying directly onto the mattress. Most commercial removers require a specific contact time—usually 5-30 minutes depending on the product and stain severity.

Thoroughly remove all product residue by blotting with damp cloths followed by dry towels. Open windows for ventilation while using commercial products, as many contain strong chemicals.

Some products work best when applied with a soft-bristled brush using circular motions to lift the stain. For deep, set-in stains, you might need multiple applications, allowing the mattress to dry completely between treatments.

Keep pets and children away from treated areas until the mattress is completely dry and all cleaning products have been removed.

Natural Cleaning Alternatives

For those who prefer eco-friendly options or have sensitivities to harsh chemicals, natural cleaning methods offer effective alternatives. These gentle solutions harness the power of everyday ingredients to tackle sunscreen stains.

Lemon Juice Treatment

Fresh lemon juice contains natural acids that break down sunscreen oils while brightening stained fabric. Cut a lemon in half and squeeze the juice into a small bowl, removing any seeds that might damage your mattress.

Mix the juice with an equal amount of water to prevent the acid from being too strong for delicate mattress fabrics. Apply the diluted juice directly to the stain using a clean cloth, dampening but not soaking the area.

Allow the lemon solution to sit for 15-30 minutes as the citric acid works on the stain. Blot the area with clean, damp cloths to remove both the lemon juice and dissolved sunscreen residue. Follow with dry towels to absorb moisture, pressing firmly to extract as much liquid as possible.

The lemon’s natural scent leaves your mattress smelling fresh while the acid naturally bleaches light-colored fabrics. This method works especially well on mineral sunscreen stains that leave white residue behind.

Essential Oil Solutions

Create a natural cleaning spray using tea tree, lemon, or eucalyptus essential oils that cut through sunscreen grease. Mix 10-15 drops of your chosen essential oil with one cup of water and one tablespoon of unscented liquid soap in a spray bottle.

Shake well before each use to mix the oils that naturally separate from water. Spray lightly onto the stained area, being careful not to oversaturate your mattress. Let the solution sit for 5-10 minutes as the essential oils break down the sunscreen residue.

Blot thoroughly with clean, dry cloths, changing to fresh sections as needed. These oils offer natural antibacterial properties that help prevent mold growth in mattress fibers after cleaning.

Lavender essential oil works particularly well for nighttime cleaning, as its calming scent promotes better sleep. Remember that essential oils are concentrated and powerful—always dilute them properly to avoid potential mattress damage.

Salt Scrub Method

Create an effective natural scrub using table salt mixed with a small amount of water or lemon juice. Salt’s grainy texture provides gentle scrubbing power while its absorbent nature pulls oils from fabric fibers.

Make a thick paste that holds together but isn’t too wet—about the consistency of wet sand. Apply the salt mixture directly to the stain, covering it completely with a thin layer. Gently rub the paste into the stain using circular motions with your fingertips or a soft toothbrush.

Allow the paste to dry completely, which typically takes 1-2 hours depending on how much liquid you used. Vacuum the dried salt using an upholstery attachment, making sure to remove all particles.

This method works best on fresh stains caught within the first 24 hours. For tougher stains, add a few drops of dish soap to your salt mixture for extra grease-cutting power. Salt is especially effective on sunscreen with added glitter or shimmer, as it helps scrub away these stubborn particles.

After-Treatment Care

Properly caring for your mattress after treating sunscreen stains is crucial for long-lasting results. Taking these final steps ensures your mattress stays fresh and prevents future staining problems.

• Drying Your Mattress Properly: Allow your mattress to dry completely before covering it with sheets or sleeping on it again. Set up fans around your mattress to create air circulation that speeds up the drying process.
• Sunlight Exposure Benefits: Harness the natural power of sunlight to help eliminate stubborn sunscreen stains and odors. Direct sunlight naturally bleaches light-colored mattresses, helping to fade remaining stain marks.
• Adding Fresh Scents: Restore a clean, inviting scent to your mattress after removing sunscreen stains and odors. Sprinkle a thin layer of baking soda mixed with a few drops of lavender essential oil across the entire mattress surface.

Remember that regular maintenance helps extend your mattress life and prevents the need for intensive stain removal in the future.

When to Call Professionals

Sometimes sunscreen stains resist even your best DIY efforts, indicating it’s time to bring in expert help. Professional mattress cleaners have specialized equipment and products that tackle tough situations.

• Signs of Severe Staining: Consider professional help when sunscreen stains cover large portions of your mattress surface. Deep stains that have penetrated multiple layers of mattress material often need industrial-strength extraction methods.
• What Professional Cleaning Offers: Professional mattress cleaners use industrial-strength extraction equipment that pulls deeply embedded sunscreen residue from all mattress layers. They apply specialized enzyme treatments formulated specifically for sunscreen’s unique chemical composition.
• Cost vs. DIY Considerations: Consider the value of your mattress when deciding between professional cleaning and DIY methods. Expensive or newer mattresses often justify professional treatment to protect your investment.

When weighing professional cleaning against DIY methods, consider both immediate costs and long-term benefits to your mattress lifespan. Maintaining your mattress properly now can prevent more expensive replacements in the future.

FAQs

Can sunscreen stains permanently damage my mattress?

Yes, sunscreen stains can cause permanent damage if left untreated. The oils and chemicals in sunscreen break down natural fibers in your mattress over time, weakening the fabric structure.

Chemical ingredients like avobenzone can create rust-colored stains that set deeply into mattress materials. The longer you wait to treat these stains, the more likely they’ll become permanent fixtures on your sleeping surface.

How quickly should I treat a sunscreen stain on my mattress?

You should treat sunscreen stains as soon as you notice them—ideally within the first hour. Fresh stains remain on the surface where they’re much easier to remove before they penetrate deeper layers.

Within just 24 hours, sunscreen can bond with mattress fibers, making complete removal much more difficult. Quick action means you can often use gentler cleaning methods rather than harsh chemicals that might damage your mattress.

Will washing my sheets remove sunscreen before it reaches my mattress?

Washing your sheets regularly helps but doesn’t guarantee complete protection from sunscreen transfer. Sunscreen can transfer directly to your mattress when you sit or lie on your bed without sheets, or it can seep through thin sheets if you apply a heavy layer before bed.

Multiple sheet layers provide better protection, especially when you use a waterproof mattress protector underneath. For best results, shower before bed and wash your sheets weekly during heavy sunscreen season.

Can I use bleach to remove sunscreen stains from my mattress?

You should avoid using bleach on your mattress as it can damage the fabric and foam materials. Bleach breaks down mattress fibers, potentially causing yellowing, brittleness, and premature deterioration of your mattress.

The harsh chemicals can also leave strong odors that may cause respiratory irritation during sleep. Instead, try hydrogen peroxide diluted with water for light-colored mattresses, or enzyme cleaners that break down oils without damaging mattress materials.

How can I prevent sunscreen stains during vacation when I’m using it daily?

Pack a lightweight mattress protector when traveling to create a waterproof barrier between you and hotel beds. Bring dark-colored beach towels to sit or lie on when you can’t shower immediately after swimming or sunbathing.

Make evening showers a non-negotiable part of your vacation routine to remove sunscreen before sleeping. Consider packing cleansing wipes specifically designed to remove sunscreen for quick clean-ups when a full shower isn’t possible.

Do natural sunscreens stain less than chemical ones?

Natural mineral sunscreens typically cause different types of stains rather than fewer stains. While they lack the chemicals that create yellow or orange discoloration, mineral sunscreens contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide that leave white, chalky residue on fabric.

These mineral particles can be just as difficult to remove from mattress fibers once they set. Natural sunscreens often contain plant oils as carriers, which can create oil-based stains similar to those from chemical formulas.

How do I know if my DIY cleaning attempts are making the stain worse?

Watch for spreading of the original stain boundaries, which indicates you’re pushing oils further into the fabric. Notice if colors change or darken after treatment, suggesting a chemical reaction between your cleaner and the sunscreen ingredients.

Check for texture changes in your mattress surface, such as stiffening, pilling, or deterioration of the fabric. If you detect strong chemical odors that persist after drying, your cleaning method might be too harsh for the mattress materials.

When multiple cleaning attempts show no improvement or worsen the situation, it’s time to consider professional help.

How do you remove sunscreen stains from white sheets?

Begin by brushing off any dried sunscreen residue, then rinse the stained area with cold water from the back of the fabric to push the stain outward rather than deeper into the fibers. Create a cleaning solution by mixing one part hydrogen peroxide with three parts cold water, applying it directly to the stain and allowing it to sit for about 15-20 minutes.

After the solution has had time to work, wash the sheets item in the washing machine on a gentle cycle with a mild detergent and an oxygen-based bleach specifically formulated for delicate fabrics, making sure the water temperature doesn’t exceed what’s recommended for sheets (usually lukewarm).

Allow the sheets to air dry completely, preferably in the sun if possible, as natural sunlight can help further break down any remaining stain molecules and brighten the white sheets. However, check the stain before drying completely, as heat from a dryer can set any residual stain permanently.

Will vinegar remove sunscreen stains?

Yes, though it’s best to opt for white distilled vinegar rather than colored varieties to avoid introducing additional stains to your fabrics. The process typically involves creating a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water, then gently dabbing this mixture onto the stained area and allowing it to sit for 15-30 minutes to dissolve the sunscreen residue before laundering as usual.

For particularly stubborn sunscreen stains, you might need to repeat the process multiple times or combine the vinegar with other stain-fighting ingredients such as baking soda to create a gentle paste that can be worked into the fabric.

Remember that while vinegar is generally safe for most fabrics, it’s always wise to test it on an inconspicuous area first, especially with delicate materials that might be sensitive to acidic solutions.

How do I get rid of sunscreen smells on my bed?

Start by stripping your bed completely and washing all removable items like sheets, pillowcases, and duvet covers using an unscented laundry detergent with a cup of white vinegar added to the wash cycle; vinegar naturally neutralizes odors without leaving its own scent behind once dried.

For the mattress itself, sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda across the entire surface and gently work it into the fabric with a soft brush, allowing it to sit undisturbed for at least 4-6 hours (or ideally overnight) to absorb both moisture and odors that have penetrated beyond the surface.

After the baking soda has had sufficient time to work, thoroughly vacuum the mattress using an upholstery attachment, making multiple passes to ensure all the powder is removed, as any remaining baking soda could create a damp paste if it later comes into contact with moisture.

Conclusion

Removing sunscreen stains from your mattress requires quick action and the right cleaning methods for best results. Whether you choose blotting techniques for fresh spills, deep cleaning solutions for set-in stains, or natural alternatives for a gentler approach, persistent effort usually pays off.

Prevention remains your best defense—use mattress protectors, shower before bed, and create barriers between sunscreen-covered skin and your bedding. Regular maintenance like proper drying, sunlight exposure, and adding fresh scents keeps your mattress in top condition even during heavy sunscreen season.

When DIY methods fall short, professional mattress cleaners offer specialized equipment and expertise that can save severely stained mattresses. With these techniques in your cleaning arsenal, you can enjoy worry-free summer days without sacrificing your mattress quality.

Don’t let sunscreen stains ruin your sleep or your mattress investment—tackle them confidently with these proven methods. And let us know in the comments or social media any of your mattress cleaning tips and tricks!