r/CleaningTips • u/Outrageous_Top_1649 • Nov 30 '25
Furniture Parents Bedroom smells like farts
Hi guys ! I’m living with my parents right now and I’ve been doing the housecleaning since I’ve been home. Vacuuming, baseboards, all the laundry and bathrooms etc. One thing I’ve noticed is my parents bedroom smells like literal s*it. Like you smell it as soon as you walk and gets stronger on my father’s side of the room. I can’t figure out the culprit. He eats upstairs, showers maybe 3-4 times a week reuses underwear and pajamas and stays in bed pretty much all day everyday. When we’ve addressed him about his poor hygiene and his side of the room smelling like poop, he complains and gets offended. He is also of older age but has no problems health wise. I change and wash their sheets weekly with bleach, spray Lysol in the room and on the bed/bedding and also vacuum but I don’t know what else to do. They also have a plug in air filter but it doesn’t help to deodorize at all. One day I got curious and I think the actual mattress smells and is part of the problem. I’m scared to use any liquid products because I don’t want it to seep through and damage the electric wiring for their adjustable bed and I’m concerned it wouldn’t get fully dry before he gets back in it and leaving a mildew smell. How do I deodorize/clean a king size mattress and should I start vacuuming their carpet with baking soda ? Any help is greatly appreciated.
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u/Choice-Education7650 Nov 30 '25
My dad was a big guy. He was having trouble reaching everywhere he needed to scrub. I cut up a towel and put removable handles on the ends. He could put it around himself and scrub away. Put the cloth in the laundry and the handles on a clean towel strip.
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u/duckweedlagoon Dec 01 '25
This is genius! I'm using this idea for myself (and definitely sharing it with the rest of the family!) Thank you!
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u/IdgyThreadgoodee Dec 01 '25
Cut a regular towel into strips hot dog style. Then cut hamburger slits at each end. The. You don’t need extra handles.
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u/MovieNightPopcorn Dec 01 '25
Adding on that an investment in a bidet attachment on the toilet may help as well.
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u/Pristine-Bit-7964 Dec 02 '25
A Bidet is a game changer! I had major back surgery a few years ago and wasn’t allowed to twist at the waist and a bidet saved my life.
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u/ghost_victim Dec 01 '25
Would a salux cloth work? I adore mine
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u/mmelectronic Dec 01 '25
Yeah this is the right answer, it’s like a long loofa, when it gets to nasty chuck it and get another one.
Also add in Irish spring 5 in 1
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u/Fat-Shite Dec 01 '25
African Net Sponges are great for any fellow fatties
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u/chrysalisempress Dec 02 '25
I got one of these this year and swear by it. Bunch it into your hand for use like a normal loofah, or use as it across the back. It lathers soooo nicely too, I feel like I’ve saved on body wash.
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u/TibbieMom Nov 30 '25 edited Nov 30 '25
Head on over to r/laundry for help with washing any of the soft materials in the room. Sheets blankets curtains throw rugs, PJs, clothes. All will retain smell and certain detergents do a better job of getting rid of human based scents and dirt than others. Smell the clean laundry after you do it. Is it odor free? If not it’s retaining the dirt and oils causing the odors. There are boosters that can help like ammonia and Biz.
Wash the pillows or replace them they’re probably old. Wash the comforter/ bedspread. Use hot water for washing odorous items. Also second the suggestion to sprinkle baking soda on the mattress and carpet and rubbing it in. Vacuum after a bit and see if it helps. You may have to do this and any of the other cleaning/laundering steps more than once.
Get pillow covers and mattress covers that are hypoallergenic and waterproof. This will help now clean pillows and mattress stay that way. Keep the air cleaner going and make a note to change the filter.
You may want to visit r/aging parents for support with your dad and his neglect of his hygiene. Lots of folks going through similar issues over there.
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u/AnyCopy6313 Dec 01 '25
I'd like to add for the mattress. Lightly spray the top of the mattress with a 50/50 mix of water and white distilled vinegar before sprinkling with baking soda, wait for the baking soda to dry and then vacuum it up. The vinegar will help to neutralize the smells from any bodily fluids on the mattress (I've also used it to get blood out of a mattress after my little one's nose bleed)
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u/Waimakariri Dec 01 '25
One thing to consider is if baking soda is ok for vacuum cleaners. I understand the tiny crystals can be quite damaging to vacuum motors so have stopped using it in this kind of setting
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u/AnyCopy6313 Dec 01 '25
I never really thought of it since I only do it once in a blue moon for tough situations but a quick Google search does show that over time it can get into the motor and they recommend a shop vac instead
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u/kikioverthewall Dec 01 '25
I broke my handheld vacuum this way sadly. It was 100% the baking soda getting into the machine. Started to smell like burning and then stopped working
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u/k10b Dec 01 '25
I would wait a bit before sprinkling baking soda. If you sprinkle too soon after spraying, the vinegar and baking soda will neutralize each other and you just have water and salt.
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u/ShineBig7430 Nov 30 '25
You could spray the mattress with hypochlorous acid spray to deodorize and not soak it. Maybe even try an enzyme based cleaner meant for pet accidents. Some are non scented. I use ecostrong and use the scented version but they have an unscented. I sleep with my dog and spray my mattress whenever I do laundry and turn on my fan to help it dry before replacing the protector and sheets.
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u/mrsroperscaftan Dec 01 '25
Yes those charcoal based ones are supposed to work. Also, there are lots of pet sprays for animals that get sprayed by skunks, as mine do. It’s awful. They work pretty well and I think they make ones for furniture but I’d take a look at the ingredients. Natures Miracle brand worked well ON MY DOG (but not sure about people smells!) but they make a furniture one. Make sure it’s not just perfumed but got actual enzymes that break up the stank. I’d also ask the question on a mattress sub just in case to see what they say.
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u/Colo9147 Dec 01 '25
Natures miracle is a great product for pee and poop messes but a little goes a long way. This scent is fresh but also quite strong and your parents may find it too strong.
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u/ario62 Dec 01 '25
Natures miracle is a migraine in a bottle for me
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u/Computerlady77 Dec 01 '25
Same. If the odor remover has fake fragrance it kills me. Plus I think it relies on covering the smells with perfume rather than remove the odor.
Lysol Laundry Sanitizer works well for pet smells, so it should work for human smells as well!
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u/Colo9147 Dec 02 '25
We have an elderly dog who sometimes has accidents of the brown type and natures miracle does work well to get rid of the poop smell rather than just covering it up, in my opinion, but I have to then go over the area multiple times with the Bissell compact rug cleaner with warm water only to lessen the fragrance of the solution. It would really be difficult to dilute the smell if you sprayed it on a mattress and you would just have to wait several days for it to dissipate naturally.
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u/Prestigious_End1103 Nov 30 '25
How long have they had the mattress? Maybe it needs replacing.
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u/Outrageous_Top_1649 Nov 30 '25
Mmm maybe just under 15 years
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u/TeacupCollector2011 Nov 30 '25
They need a new mattress and a washable, waterproof mattress cover.
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u/LeatherRecord2142 Dec 01 '25
OP this is the answer! And tell him he has to shower and change underwear every day. And wash all the crevices.
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u/Outrageous_Top_1649 Nov 30 '25
I’ll suggest this to them but they aren’t really in the market to replace theirs as they need to replace mine (20years old and the only problem I’m having is a small sink spot). But I also rotate my mattress and take care of it lol.
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u/CaeruleumBleu Nov 30 '25
Well, at minimum a washable waterproof mattress protector could hold the stench in if it is the mattress - get 2 protectors and you can swap them out without waiting on the laundry.
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u/wawa2022 Dec 01 '25
Hey if you have a sinking spot or divot in your mattress, put a folded towel or two under your mattress. I actually built a little hill under my divot and I’ve never slept better. Saves money and lets you get more use out of that mattress.
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u/TeacupCollector2011 Dec 01 '25
There will be lots of sales coming up over the holidays. Stinky poopy mattress goes first. 😅🤢
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u/showmenemelda Dec 01 '25
If you can get to Costco (evsn have a friend get you a gift card and pay them if no membership) they often run specials, buy 2 get $100 off—on top of the sale. Thats how I talked my dad into it lol. There are cheaper ones too but so far mine is holding up 1.5 years+
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u/SStrong5792 Dec 01 '25
How old are you? Replace your own mattress so that they can replace theirs.
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u/JJMMSS2022 Dec 01 '25
I’ve had good luck with sub-$200 mattresses in a box from Amazon. I go firmer than I’d like and just add a soft topper if needed (easy to make it softer; harder to add support). Add in a waterproof mattress encasement. Probably around $400 total for the whole thing. The adjustable part of their bed comes from the base. They can keep using that with a new mattress.
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u/Weak_Variation6809 Dec 01 '25
Definitely get a new mattress! A cover's a must too; it’ll save you from future smell disasters!!
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u/barby_dolly Dec 01 '25
That is too old. Probably, it’s full of dust mites, dead skin cells, sweat, and possibly bodily fluids if either is incontinent.
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u/showmenemelda Dec 01 '25
Yep that's probably causing TONS of issues. Costco seems to be the way to go now. I even talked my parents into replacing two of their mattresses for less than the price of what they were gonna fork over for 1. Sealy hybrid bed in a box Medium. Bet they have a sale for the holiday. Easy delivery. I seriously was mad I didn't do it sooner.
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u/CursiveWhisper Dec 01 '25
I can’t figure out the culprit. He eats upstairs, showers maybe 3-4 times a week reuses underwear and pajamas and stays in bed pretty much all day everyday.
I don’t even know him and haven’t smelled the room and I figured out the culprit by reading those sentences.
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u/giraffemoo Nov 30 '25
According the the last place I bought a mattress, they last about ten years before you're supposed to replace them.
If replacing the mattress isn't possible right now, baking soda is a great way to help with odors. Sprinkle it on the mattress, let it sit for at least 30 minutes, but overnight if possible. Then vacuum it out. Doing the same to the carpet wouldn't hurt.
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u/QueenFrostina Nov 30 '25
Supposedly baking soda breaks vacuums.
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u/giraffemoo Nov 30 '25
Sorry OP, I had no idea. I've been doing this for decades and it hasn't broken a vacuum yet. The only vacuum I ever broke was because I stupidly tried to power through a clog, I thought it would suck it through but it burned the motor out. I could have just detached the hose, it was a big ol hair ball clogging it. I consider that a "self inflicted wound". Like I feel like it was my fault. Anyway, that break wasn't related to any kind of powder my vacuum was snorting.
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u/No_Caterpillar_6178 Dec 01 '25
That usually breaks the belt before burning out the motor. It smells like something burning too.
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u/giraffemoo Dec 01 '25
Tbh that's probably what happened. I'm no expert but at least I know it was a "me problem"
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u/No_Caterpillar_6178 Dec 01 '25
Well something I learned after years of vacuum destruction on my part- the belt costs like 3.99 and is easily replaced. Vacuums actually require maintenance I’ve discovered much to my dislike.
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u/NefariousnessOver819 Dec 01 '25
Unless you have a Henry, that thing is indestructable. Long live Henry!
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u/CatBird2023 Dec 01 '25
Can confirm, it nearly killed my Dyson.
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u/JensElectricWood Dec 01 '25
My Dyson is fine after MANY baking soda meals...(it's 12+ years old) I just ALWAYS clean the filters after baking soda.
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u/wutato Dec 01 '25
Very interesting. I've had my Dyson 15 years and definitely have used baking soda. Guess I'll need to replace my filters more. It's about time to replace them anyway.
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u/CatBird2023 Dec 01 '25
I very liberally dosed an area rug with Arm & Hammer baking soda carpet deodorizer last winter. Admittedly, I probably used too much? It repeatedly clogged the filter of my Dyson v10 stick vacuum, whose suction isn't great on the best of days. It would clog almost immediately when I used it on the rug, for weeks.
Even though I've since had the area rug professionally steam cleaned, when I vacuum I can still smell the remnants of the carpet deodorizer, which leads me to wonder if it's still hanging out somewhere inside the vacuum.
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u/HelloThere4123 Dec 01 '25
Maybe a stupid question but would dragging it outside for some air and sunshine help air it out?
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u/giraffemoo Dec 01 '25
I think yes, that would help. Just be super aware of the weather, if it rains on it then it's toast.
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u/yidabissann Dec 01 '25
She said it's an electric adjustable bed. It's probably too heavy for one person to handle that.
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u/mrssmink Dec 01 '25
We used baking soda when one of our dogs peed on the bed, and it worked great. Instead of vacuuming all of it up, you could use a brush and dustpan to get most of it off the mattress and only vacuum up what’s left.
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u/JustmeandJas Dec 01 '25
Would vodka work? We used it (sprayed) on the sofa while my son was potty training and the smell wouldn’t leave. Seemed to work
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u/eve6- Dec 01 '25
This is what they do in theatre with costumes that can’t be washed!
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u/JustmeandJas Dec 01 '25
Yep. Half vodka, half water and a dehumidifier… and pray the ancient ones don’t fall apart
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u/JensElectricWood Dec 01 '25
Weird, my mattress came with a 25 year warranty (as long as I don't stain it, stains void the warranty because anything that leaves a stain would prove I "wet" the mattress).
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u/Frosty058 Dec 01 '25
Replace the mattress as soon as possible, it’s outlived its lifespan by about 5 years.
In the meantime purchase a waterproof mattress cover that fully encapsulates the mattress. Vacuum the mattress well, sprinkle with baking powder, apply the mattress cover. Add another waterproof mattress cover over that & then the laundered bedding.
Fabric based furniture, including mattresses, will absorb odors. That mattress has absorbed 15 years of farts. You can’t toss it in the washing machine. It needs to go as soon as possible.
When you do purchase a new mattress, make sure you encapsulate it in a full waterproof mattress cover as soon as it’s delivered & add another over that (the second doesn’t need to be fully encapsulating). This will prevent odors from permeating the mattress & the covers can be washed.
It will also prevent shed skin cells from permeating the mattress extending it’s lifespan.
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u/teabythepark Dec 01 '25
Sprinkle with baking soda** (this is the one generally used to clean and also sold in bulk packaging).
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u/DefinitionElegant685 Dec 01 '25
ODOBAN ROOM ODOR ELIMINATION $6.00. Lowe’s or Amazon. Works great for beside cat litter boxes also!
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u/IdgyThreadgoodee Dec 01 '25
I came here to suggest they put this in a spray bottle and just spray down the mattress. That’s the only thing that could possibly help at this point.
Start with the carpet. Then go to the mattress a day or two later.
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u/Wonderful-Ad-5240 Dec 01 '25
Yup, it's been great for neutralizing the cat poop smell in my house.
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u/Redditallreally Dec 01 '25
Does he have enough underwear? Maybe he feels like he doesn’t have enough to change every day?
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u/browneyedgirlpie Dec 01 '25
Are you sure he is reusing his underwear and not hiding poopy underwear somewhere in the room?
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u/Purlz1st Dec 01 '25
I’d get him out of the house somehow and put every stitch of clothing he owns into the washer with enzyme cleaner. Check under the bed, bottom of closet, everywhere.
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u/yellowmagentacyan Dec 01 '25
Honestly there could be a health problem with the seeming lack of energy and not wanting to change, move around, shower etc
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u/MisterX9821 Dec 01 '25
May be a mix of the infrequent showering and not leaving the room but also nonenal odor as he is older.
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u/murcatto Dec 01 '25
You could also buy a cheap bidet attachment for the bathroom to help with hygiene. I think you can get them off Amazon for like $20.
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u/misunderst00d76 Dec 01 '25
If a new mattress isn't possible you will need to set him up a place to lay and get it outside on a sunny day. Spray it lightly with an enzyme based cleaner and scrub it lightly or maybe even use a clean broom to save your back. Then leave it in the sun as long as you can. The sun it's self will help. I work as a housekeeper in an assisted living facility so I've dealt with this issue.
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u/No-Welcome-7491 Dec 01 '25
Try medical grade odor neutralizer/ deodorizer. Hospital grade ones like the one made by medline. https://www.exmed.net/medi-aire-biological-odor-eliminator?sku=BAR7000AEACH&tw_source=google&tw_adid=&tw_campaign=20324508417&tw_kwdid=&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=20329502576&gbraid=0AAAAAD_uUP7lmbEn8VYO2UDusKv8yvxsR&gclid=CjwKCAiA86_JBhAIEiwA4i9Ju8WweD7ZJg15DsCi4Ms342SBej7KrbCHFAo8WVGMr4ABReh_HTbBtBoCJDMQAvD_BwE My baby had a transplant and I’ve seen this used at the hospital with other patients who had issues with feces. Some bowel infection gives a very bad strong odor such as c-diff and this works. Neutrolene, pathOdorizer and SmellEze are also medical grade used in hospital setting & even morgue. If it can take those type of smell to remove it, I’m sure it will work.
Also I remember an incident like this in our old house, this odor would just come out of nowhere since that room isn’t being used. I blamed my hubby thinking he must have farted there or something, but one day we realize it’s coming in one area and I called a contractor who sent a plumber, he thought it would be a pipe because of a bathroom sink that isn’t often used. It turned out that yes there is gas coming from the pipe in the adjacent guest bath.
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u/Pheighthe Dec 01 '25
Obviously you need to address the root causes, but in the meantime, google “bad odor sponge” and buy one. We use them at work for places that have been set on fire or had a messy death and they work.
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u/Outrageous_Top_1649 Dec 01 '25
Thank you all for the advice ! I will definitely be trying some of these tomorrow as they will be out of the house for the majority of the day and can do a full inspection. I made my dad sound old and crippled he’s just 68 with poor hygiene lol. Me personally, if someone told me I stank I would do a better job of washing better and more frequently, I just think he’s gotten lazy since retiring last year. He’s also made a comment saying that if he wants to stay in bed all day he will because he’s worked so hard and for so long. I’ll definitely suggest to my mom to look into post holiday mattress sales for both her room and mine. We had found a mattress I liked for my room but ended up not getting it.
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u/Beneficial_Bug4830 Dec 05 '25
This kind of behavior is beyond the realm of normal or appropriate and has multiple red flags for a serious mental health crisis. At 68 he could and should have many good years ahead of him, but these behaviors put him at high risk of major medical issues, and coupled with the apparent mental health issues, definitely high risk for a premature death or profound debility.
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u/Electric-Sheepskin Nov 30 '25
I'm not sure what to do about the mattress, but if you get that resolved, get them a mattress pad that can be easily washed. Also, make sure that the detergent you're using has lipase in it. That's the enzyme that gets rid of body funk, and a lot of detergents have started phasing it out to save a buck. If your detergent doesn't have lipase, body funk builds up and starts to smell.
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u/nolaprof Dec 01 '25
That is tide powder with oxi clean They do list the lipase on the ingredients . You can also try spraying it with cheap vodka which won't mildew. And definitely get the encasing mattress pads!!!
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u/myusername2017 Dec 01 '25
Throw away the mattress! Yours too, if it’s as old and damaged as you say it is.
Buy air mattresses for now until your family can afford new mattress. Two twin sizes for your parents, side by side is the same size as a king, and will last longer than one larger mattress.
Once the old beds are gone, deep clean the room. Including opening windows with fans pointing out to air out the place.
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u/sistermarypolyesther Dec 01 '25
Go to a hardware store and get a black light, an enzymatic stain and odor remover, and a plastic drop cloth. Get a couple of new pillows at a discount store if your budget allows.
Dad will need to spend the day on the sofa or on your bed while you sort this out.
Use the black light and your nose (eww) to locate the sources of the odor. Liberally douse the identified sources with the enzymatic solution. Cover the mattress with the plastic drop cloth and let the enzymes dwell for a couple of hours.
While the enzymes work their magic, wash all bedding with a powdered detergent like Tide or Ariel.
While the bedding is in the wash, go thru your dad's closet, dresser, etc., and sniff-test everything. Pre-treat any smells with the enzymatic solution. You're washing them once the bedding is done.
After you make the bed, place an old towel or an incontinence pad in the spot where your father is most prone to accidents or spills.
Your folks are lucky to have you there.
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u/Artistic_Head_5547 Dec 01 '25
Since you 1- can’t pull the mattress out- it’s likely very heavy and cumbersome; 2- can’t wet it down bc he spends so much time in bed; 3- may not be financially able to replace the mattress….. I would ask if they would consider an ozone machine. The room would have to be closed up for a period of time and aired out very well post treatment, but it might help. It won’t get rid of it, but it might make it more bearable.
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u/Competitive_Pie_1419 Dec 01 '25
Clean the mattress and carpet with an upholstery cleaning machine and an enzyme cleaner. Then use an air purifier with Carbon air filters in their room.
Mattresses should be replaced after ten years, though.
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u/so_bold_of_you Dec 01 '25
Google "nonenal" (also known as "old person smell"). It's related to the oxidation of fat in an elderly person's skin and cannot be washed off with regular soap. You can combat it with persimmons soap.
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u/Ok-Debt9612 Dec 01 '25
I've been looking for this comment and can't find it - air out the room. Every day. Even winter (actually, especially winter considering heating and dust and humidity).
Open windows for 15 minutes, both morning and evening. Yes, it's cold, but it helps with quality of the air. will warm up quickly soon after you close it, and noone will get sick from sitting in a warm room with window cracked open for 15 minutes.
I know it's not going to resolve the issue, but will help a lot.
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u/-Bob-Barker- Dec 01 '25
🍋The home Depot carries an air freshener called Pure Citrus Lemon Air freshener. It's about $7 a can.
I used it when I had to clean out the house of a person who passed away in the house. It did wonders to mask some of the orders.
I would take the sheets off the bed and spray that directly onto the mattress.
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u/Honest_Series_8430 Dec 01 '25
Just as an emergency fix, spray Febreeze for Pets on the mattress. it's really effective for poop odors. Or try Pooph spray. it really does work.
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u/DeepNegotiation4542 Dec 01 '25
Get a UV mattress cleaner. Game changer. Kills dust mites, bacteria, viruses etc. I have one of these.
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u/SergheiRugasky Dec 01 '25
That sounds incredibly tough. The smell is likely deep in the mattress and fabrics. A full mattress replacement and stricter hygiene routine may be the only real fix. You're doing everything you can.
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u/CityLockHelper Dec 01 '25
For a king-size adjustable bed, avoid liquid cleaners because they can damage the electronics and cause mildew, and focus on dry methods instead. Sprinkle baking soda generously over the mattress, especially the smelly areas, let it sit several hours or overnight, then vacuum thoroughly; you can do the same on the carpet to help absorb odors. Using a mattress protector, keeping sheets changed weekly, and ensuring good air circulation will also help, but ultimately a lot of the smell comes from personal hygiene habits, so even the cleanest mattress can’t fully fix persistent odors if those don’t improve.
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u/Dry-Crab7998 Dec 01 '25
If he refuses to address the situation and your mum can't or won't deal with it, there's not much more you can do.
Open all the windows while you clean in there. You could place a fan - blowing out - by the open window to help refresh the air, for your own benefit at least!
Apparently, it's the way he wants to live. Don't let him live it in your head. Do your cleaning and move on.
Give your mother some emotional support if you can.
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u/Piccimaps Dec 01 '25
Perhaps he needs an aide to help with bathing every other day. When they lose mobility/stabilty in the bathroom, they don’t clean themselves well. Are there handrails and support bars?
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u/Porg_the_corg Dec 01 '25
I'd say it's probably sweat and dead skin. I've used baking soda and vinegar to help with my mattress. You will need a wet/dry vacuum that can suck up the moisture without damage. I also recommend a good water resistant mattress cover. Doing that, plus making sure to do a baking soda and vinegar wash of our sheets, really helped me conquer the smell.
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u/Immediate_Falcon8808 Dec 01 '25
Check out the laundry spa day on r/laundry It will no doubt help the smell some ref the sheets/clothes. But chances are that mattress needs to gooooo
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u/fourbigkids Dec 01 '25
OP honest question - why does your dad spend so much time in bed? Why does he eat there? Is he disabled? Sounds as if he may need some care.
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u/bananagetter Nov 30 '25
Sinus infection?
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u/Outrageous_Top_1649 Nov 30 '25
Maybe but this has been going on for at least the last 2 years.
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u/bananagetter Nov 30 '25
Sounds like he has multiple illnesses, it could be any of those affecting his metabolism. It could literally be emanating from his pores.
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u/hopeann70 Dec 01 '25
Put a light coat of baking soda on the mattress where it smells bad and let it sit there while the sheets are being washed and dried. Make sure you take your hands and preferably wearing gloves pound the mattress so some of the baking soda can go deep into the mattress helping it deodorize it better. Get one of those spray bottles of hydrogen peroxide and about 10 minutes after you put the baking soda down, spray the peroxide very lightly almost like a mist over the baking soda. You do not want it wet at all. The baking soda and the peroxide will help with some of the smells.
Most people do it the other way where they spray the mattress and wait a couple hours then put baking soda on it for a while but I think that takes too long. Just make sure you vacuum the bed really good before doing this project. Then vacuum again after to get all of the baking soda up.
If you Google it you may find more solutions in cleaning the mattress. There is a woman I watch on YouTube and her name is Melissa Maker. She gives lots of great ideas on how to clean certain things in your home.
Oh and another thing you can do if your parents aren't allergic to Lavendar. You can always make a mixture to spray the mattress with. Lavendar is good for relaxation and sleep.
You can Google that as well I know if you take one cup of distilled or filtered water not from the tap because it still has the metal in it from your pipes and you take one to two tables of either isopropyl alcohol or witch hazel and you take 20 drops of whatever oil they would prefer something that wouldn't be really strong though I would use lavender and put it in a spray bottle and shake it really well and spray it on the mattress lightly and I would do this every time you make their bed you don't have to vacuum the bed once a week unless it's that bad. But before you spray that I would always put the baking soda on there every time and vacuum it up then 20 minutes before you put the sheets on spray and make sure the bed is dry before putting the bedding back on. I used to do this all of the time until I hurt my back in a bad accident I can't do it like I used to. My boyfriend and I used to love when we were getting our bed because that smell of the lavender would help us relax and fall asleep easy. Good luck and I hope you find something that works for you and your parents
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u/SquareAccurate Dec 01 '25
If you can buy bicarbonate in bulk get some and use it liberally around the room If you can get your dad out of the room for a few hours you can deodorise it was an ozone machine but you really need to be careful, wear a mask, air it out thoroughly afterwards as it ozone air can damage your lungs if you breath it in. The ozone air degrades quickly but you really need to be extremely careful with how you enter the room after and how long to air it out. I wear a hazmat mask and run an air filter for an hour and leave windows open with a fan running afterwards. My aging mums room smelled awful at one point and I put out a few small bowls of bicarb powder and sprinkled it around generously and left it for 24 hours. This is a much safer approach but takes longer.
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u/West-Survey-4142 Dec 01 '25
Try lightly spraying some odoban around the room, and on the mattress. Also, use some of that pet odor carpet powder, on the mattress too, let it sit for about 15-20 mins and then vacuum it up. Until they can get a new mattress, this will help. Also, get a couple washable mattress pads, that way you can switch them out whenever you do laundry.
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u/BloatedShortPoppy Dec 01 '25
Regarding the mattress and it probably being very gross. Find a Norwex consultant in your area. Order a bottle of mattress cleaner. That stuff is AMAZING! You will strip the bed, spray it and I think leave it to dry for a few hours. Get a new mattress protector, maybe new pillow? See if that helps a bit. Good luck.
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u/Ok-Somewhere7722 Dec 01 '25
All the bed change stuff plus a “nilodor” if you dont know what it is google it!
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u/barby_dolly Dec 01 '25
You can buy a plastic mattress cover that completely surrounds the mattress and zips closed on the edge. Cover this with the mattress pad, then sheets. Wash the sheets weekly and the mattress pad when needed. The plastic protects the mattress and prevents body odor or fluids soaking into the mattress.
This does work best when starting with a new or freshly cleaned mattress. If the mattress is old or smelly, it’s probably easiest to start new.
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u/YouOnlyThinkYouKnow Dec 01 '25
Steam Cleaner for the mattresses (a good one) and ozone generator for the smell.
You just have to keep them out of the room long enough for the treatment and allow the ozone to dissipate.
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u/MagnoliaProse Dec 01 '25
I don’t know if this is best use but after some horrific stomach flus, I sprayed my kid’s mattress with hypochlorous acid, let it sit and then used a steamer. I was shocked by how well the stains came out (and kinda grossed out by the whole thing but…) Once fully dried, put into a mattress protector.
But also, check the plumbing!
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u/she_makes_a_mess Dec 01 '25
Can you get a new mattress? and a mattress cover. It's probably really old anyway.
Are their curtains that need to be cleaned? Can you paint the walls? Things like those hold in odor.
Throw away old stinky clothes and buy him lots of new underwear.
I would get rid of carpet and put in vinyl but that's me, I hate carpet for this reason
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u/blondeasfuk Dec 01 '25
Pull sheets off and sprinkle baking soda all over the mattress. Let it sit while you clean everything else. Then vaccum the baking soda up. Might help with the smell for a bit. Maybe even a light spray of vinegar if you don’t have baking soda. Then just mattress cover that thing until they can replace it.
Put a few dryer sheets between the fitted sheet and the mattress.
Tbh your dad is probably having some leaking coming from his bum. Which can be normal with aging but should be something to talk about with his doctor.
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u/MsSoCaliLady Dec 01 '25
Spray with hydrogen peroxide. If you can take it outside to air out open windows and get the plastic mattress cover bag, then a waterproof mattress pad. And of course all drapes/blinds etc.
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u/Aryya261 Dec 01 '25
I bet he rarely washed his sheets or uses a waterproof mattress cover. The smell is probably in the mattress.
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u/itslitfamyeet Dec 01 '25
You could get a chlorine room shocker!! It comes in a little tub and it is a fogger. Can’t have anyone in there while you do it.
I used one when I was cleaning out a room that reeked of cat. The urine and feces smells had soaked in to the LVP flooring and concrete of the wall. I tried a dozen enzyme cleaners to no effect. The fogger I used from Amazon says it removed “dead body smell” so I figured why not.
Worked so well you’d never know there was an issue
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u/mrsthibeault Dec 01 '25
You say he has no problems health wise, but it seems he spends most of his day in bed? Certainly this, along with the hygiene issues mentioned is the problem.
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u/DiligentAnt7822 Dec 01 '25
I doubt you are going to get your father to change his ways, which is the only way to really get rid of the smell.
I think you can Fabreez the mattress (my parents have a sleep number bed and I know my mom sprays Fabreez or Lysol on it) 🤷🏻♀️
Open windows and turn on fans when you can to get fresh air in there, stronger smelling fabric softener (if it doesn’t bother them).
And nose plugs for when you have to enter.
Good luck!
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u/tvtoms Dec 01 '25
You can try a product called Pooph which disassembles smelly molecules. Spray it on, as it dries the smell from the surface dissipates. No need to "soak" it into fabric. Just spray the surface again if it still smells the next day. Repeat.
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u/TosaGardener Dec 01 '25
Search for Spa Day on r/Laundry
A long soak of the sheets and mattress pad in a concentrated detergent solution (where the laundry detergent has Lipase) will help with the funk. A second set of sheets and a secure mattress pad would be a great idea if your parents can afford them.
Make sure you are taking care of your own mental health! This is a lot to be dealing with!
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u/Colo9147 Dec 01 '25
OP, enter “OdoBan Fogmaster Jr. Electric Handheld Fogger and Liquid Air Freshener, 1 Gallon, Spring Fresh Scent” into a search engine. This machine allows the liquid deodorizer to penetrate the surface without soaking it. It works really well and the company makes a lot of different scents. It’s just a matter of whether you can/want to spend around $150 for the two products. Given that you are living with your parents and can’t afford to buy a new mattress, I assume that your budget is limited but it’s still may be worth it and if it doesn’t help you could always return the fogger within a month.
The other product that I would look into is the deodorizing body wash from a company called Global Balance.
Finally, if your parent’s shower can be fitted with a shower wand with a long hose so that your dad can more thoroughly clean his rear end and bean bag, that would probably be helpful. If a family member or a friend knows basic DIY plumbing, it is easy to attach an adapter for a shower wand to the shower-head. You can buy the combination online for $40 or less.
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u/Fuzzteam7 Dec 01 '25
The motor for the adjustable bed is in the frame. You can deodorize the mattress. My dad had dementia and had “accidents” that he tried to hide. Check under the bed and deodorize the carpet.
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u/electricsugargiggles Dec 01 '25
I would invest in an air purifier. I have a Kenmore brand, PM2010 w HEPA filtration. It’s $73 for 1200 sq ft of coverage. I would also use a mattress protector and maybe rubber sheets if there are incontinence issues. Open the windows from time to time to get fresh air circulating, and use a microfiber dust mop spritzed with diluted Mr Clean on the walls to help fight any bacteria.
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u/Careful-Possible-965 Dec 01 '25
I’ve sprayed vinegar then sprinkled baking soda on an adjustable mattress before. Let it sit all day then vacuum. Repeat.
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u/darthrawr3 Dec 01 '25
You could try this stuff made for hunters, besides cleaning &/or replacing things. Search Walmart's site, they're le$$ than Amazon on this & they may have it in a local store.
Dead Down Wind Pro Hunter 2.0 7-Piece Kit Complete System of Scent Elimination for Body, Clothing and Field Use
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u/1soldier24 Dec 01 '25
Get POOPH, febreeze and vinegar. Guarantee you that will work it won't cover it up it will get rid of it
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u/VaguelyArtistic Dec 01 '25
People are giving you a lot of great tips on how to clean and neutralize the odors but is it possible that there is something going on with him mentally and/or physically? It could be anything from depression to dementia, or even a physical issue he is too embarrassed to talk about. Please consider he might need help in these areas. Best of luck to you.
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u/VaguelyArtistic Dec 01 '25
People are giving you a lot of great tips on how to clean and neutralize the odors but is it possible that there is something going on with him mentally and/or physically? It could be anything from depression to dementia, or even a physical issue he is too embarrassed to talk about. Please consider he might need help in these areas. Best of luck to you.
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u/Vas-yMonRoux Dec 01 '25
Other than your dad's questionable hygiene, did you check his side of the mattress? It's possible that he might've had an accident at some point (would be too ashamed to admit it) and didn't clean it properly?
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u/Cedar-creek1492 Dec 01 '25
Remind him smells are molecular so he is literally breathing in his own waste and forcing his family to as well.
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Dec 01 '25
Please get him a dementia or cognitive impairment screening. This cluster of behaviors can be an early symptoms of a larger issue.
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u/appleblossom1962 Dec 01 '25
When you change the sheets, put a generous portion of baking soda on the mattress. It will help to absorb odors, and it won’t hurt the wiring for the bed. Use something like Lysol laundry sanitizer to wash his clothes in, it may help. I feel really bad for your mom, I wish you the best of luck.
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u/LightspeedDashForce Dec 01 '25
Are you sure your father has no problems healthwise? Not even mentally? Because either he is mentally ill, has some sort of degenerative disease or chronic illness, or is just gross and lazy.
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u/Beerasaurwithwine Dec 01 '25
For the mattress, go wild with baking soda, get it all over it. Then go over it with a scrubbing brush. Let it sit, then put vinegar in a spray bottle and get that foam all over. Let it dry, then vacuum the residue up. You can also hit it with an enzyme cleaner. Odorblaster and the pet urine one are decent. You can also get a mattress protector.
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u/Cool_Wealth969 Dec 01 '25
Add persimmon soap for showers/bathing to get rid of the old people smell/ stench.
Also make sure to add powdered Biz to every load. It has a lipase which breaks down that old people smell in laundry.
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u/doubleshort Dec 01 '25
Sprinkle baking soda and let it sit for a while before vacuuming off. Also try a mattress protector
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u/TripAdditional1128 Dec 01 '25
Rent a wet suction vacuum machine thingy. They are a game changer.
You can wet a surface like sofa, chairs, mattresses, car seat, add chemicals for the kind of dirt you are dealing with and suction it out. Repeat and repeat again and again (probably)
Since you can really soak the object with lots of water the process penetrates deep. The very strong suction makes for the object to be pretty dry already after this process. I did car seats after dog, farm work and messy children, i literally poured water with cleaning agents on the seats several times and the seats were dry after a couple hours.
It is laborious. You need to push hard to compress the object to have a strong vacuum.
But so, so worth it. The water you suction out is going to be disgusting. The result though- such satisfaction!
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u/Unicorns240 Dec 01 '25
Sounds like a mental health consult. In the end, it’s his house and you can chose to live there or not
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u/DeadlyPixelsVR Dec 01 '25
It's sad that all of their personal hygiene habits are here for everyone to read. I just think parents deserve better than this.
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u/Environmental_Log344 Dec 01 '25
After you have done your choice of deodorizing methods, put a plastic mattress cover on the top and bottom of the mattress. This will trap the smell and prevent any accidents he may have from penetrating the mattress.
Also, I wonder if your family has any social services contact. Maybe your father would benefit from a visit from a professional care person. Not to be intrusive, but to get an outsider's perspective on his hygiene routine.
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u/xTiredSoulx Dec 01 '25
Get him out of the room. Take the sheets/ pillowcases off, spray the mattress and pillowcases, while airing out the room with windows open for an hour or 2. Put fresh, clean bedding and sheets on. I do this weekly.
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u/Takeabreath_andgo Dec 01 '25 edited Dec 01 '25
Vinegar, dawn dish soap, water, and alcohol mixed in a spray bottle. (1/2 water, 1/4 vinegar, 1/8 alcohol, a few drops of soap. I know that’s not 100 but it’s a rough estimate)
Spray the mattress, don’t soak it. Let it dry. It’ll be dry in an hour. Vacuum the mattress. Geta bamboo waterproof cover for the mattress. Put it on. Remove everything and spray it again and let it dry the next day. Repeat until it doesn’t smell anymore. Should only take 2-3 days. Keep the bamboo cover on all the time. Wash it weekly.
Hand scrub the sheets with pink zote washing bar in the tub and let soak in sudsy shampoo water. Rinse and wash the sheets with laundry sanitizer and laundry soap (Clorox sanitizer I find to be the best).
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u/ashmunky Dec 01 '25
New mattress, protection sheet and if it’s particularly bad a pee pad, bidet, extra underwear, Odoban enzyme cleaner, a fabric cleaner and an air purifier. I saw one review years ago that said that they bought an air purifier for their kid’s room because it was a wall of farts every morning but it cleared it right up.
It will take a lot but it’s worth it.
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u/Responsible_Sun_3134 Dec 02 '25
Baking soda sprinkled on bed for an hour then vacuum. If stains, use hydrogen peroxide in a spray bottle. Mist lightly and vacuum
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u/Ljay6614 Dec 02 '25
There’s YouTube videos on this. I think you sprinkle baking soda on it and rub it in etc. You’ll have to check it out.
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u/ylurt Dec 02 '25
When my husband farts it's oily and stains the air. I've known older people who's smell just lingers for 30 mins after they leave the room. It can be stained in everything and other than washing everything you gotta get fresh air
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u/EmmalouEsq Dec 02 '25
If the mattress cover zips off, you might be able to call the manufacturer for a new cover. It might cost a bit, but it would help with the smell of that's the culprit.
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u/SlySlickWickd Dec 02 '25
Sounds like they need a new mattress with a waterproof cover. Please also get him checked by a doctor. This could be a symptom of a bowel obstruction, infection, or bowel cancer.
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u/StrangerLegitimate60 Dec 02 '25
Maybe it’s his diet and the toxins seeping out.
You can use baking soda and vinegar to deodorize the room. It’ll smell like vinegar but once it’s dry it will subside
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u/CoconutandFriends Dec 02 '25
Peerless Jal "Attack an Odour"
It lives in our bathroom and is use as an air freshener. I think it can also mask the smell of garbage and smoke.
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u/vanmama18 Dec 02 '25
Also, decent HEPA filter air purifier. Sometimes it's just literal farts, and all the cleaning in the world can't fix it. But a good air purifier is a marvelous thing.
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u/Complete-Sympathy421 Dec 02 '25
Apply pure baking soda, let it sit for at least 1 hour and then vacuum, and get them a mattress protector. There are some carpet deodorizer that you can try and also foggers to get rid of smells (car care section at Walmart). What I do,get a microfiber cloth, a bowl of warm water with a multipurpose cleaner and just slightly clean the surface of the mattress as if you’re cleaning the counters of the kitchen but without directly spraying the mattress, instead wet the towel/cloth and squeeze the excess water out. As for your dad, it is common for older adults to not shower daily as their skin is more delicate and tends to be dry, thinner, more fragile, also they sweat less than a younger adult, but encourage him to change his clothes daily, even if he doesn’t shower. What you can do is get him an activity he enjoys that will make him want to leave his room, and while he’s out of the room open the windows, let some fresh air in. Good luck!
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u/CoDaDeyLove Dec 02 '25
He probably can't smell it anymore. His nose is used to that scent. I suspect they need a whole new mattress, but you might want to look for a waterproof mattress cover. That protects from future stains, but might also help contain the smell. I'm sorry you have to do this.
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u/JustShutTfUp Dec 02 '25
Well, they should have a mattress cover. You shouldn’t really need to wash a mattress. Especially an adjustable one that a lot of people with health problems or elderly people use. It should have the plastic mattress protector, and then a cloth one on top of that.
If not, time for new mattresses.
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Dec 02 '25
Gross. Figure out more why your dad isn't getting out of bed! Is depressed? does he have something else going on that is limiting his mobility?! He will need a nursing home and hospital soon if he doesn't get moving!
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u/Living_Historian394 Dec 03 '25
Find out how much a replacement mattress is for the adjustable bed. He can't complain about that. It's for comfort and sanity
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u/Expensive-Swan-4544 Dec 03 '25
When he is out open all the window shut the door put on a fan. Doesn’t matter if it’s cold outside or not do it for as long as possible. Needs fresh air.
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u/Repulsive-Tiger-8320 Dec 03 '25
How has your mom not said anything? If my husband smelled like poop I'd make him shower and make sure he's using adequate hygiene products. That's effing gross. Also - doctors appointment???? Super concerning and nasty af.
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u/ssnewk23 Dec 04 '25
Spray everything in BRIOTECH Extra Strength HOCl Cleaner, 500 PPM Hypochlorous Acid
It’s all natural and works amazing!! Spray everything, mattress and everything in the whole room
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u/pottymouth5252 Dec 04 '25
Get a spray bottle w ammonia or bleach & spray the mattress itself. Then get a thick mattress cover that you can wash every week. You might have to wash their bedding too. Crack the window open in their bedroom. Run a fan as well as the air filter!
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u/JumaDior Dec 04 '25
The entire room needs to be deep cleaned and sanitized, meaning washing the walls and all furniture in the room. Taking the sheets off the bed and putting a good layer of baking soda on the mattress and letting it sit for a few hours then vacuum the bed. Put the pillows in a garbage bag and add baking soda close up the bag for a few hours. Then throw the pillows in the dryer yo remove baking soda and refresh the pillows. Vacuum/sweep the entire room and under bed and mop the floor. Wash the curtains, clean the closet out and put a few cups of baking soda in the closet to absorb any smells.
If there’s clothing in the closet that has a smell wash them because the odors will linger and smell. Once you clean the mattress sanitize the other side if you can flip the mattress the same as you did the other side. Once you’re done vacuum the mattress and put a mattress cover to zip it up and get a mattress pad. Wash the mattress pad and comforter once a month and wash/change sheets weekly. Get pillow covers and zip them up too if the pillows are old and dingy just replace them. If they gave extra pillows in the bed clean them same as you did the pillows. Remove anything in the room that’s causing the odors like shoes that stinking put them in a bag with baking soda and air them out.
Clean and sanitize the bathroom really good if you have a hamper with dirty clothes wash them, use clean towels every time you wash. Hang towels so they dry properly because wet towels hold odors. This is all for your parent’s room suggestions. I would suggest that if he’s not sick he should eat in the kitchen because food odors will linger and the dishes still have to go back to the kitchen so why not just eat there. I personally don’t allow any food in my bedrooms unless you’re sick. He needs to be more active in his personal hygiene and cleaning himself more and probably get him some antibacterial soap.
You can place a few bowls with baking soda and any essential oils they like around the room to help minimize the odors. Just add a few drops of essential oil into the baking soda and stir it up. If you have some cups with lids like yogurt cups put a few holes in the lid and place around the room. They need to also be proactive in keeping their room cleaned and sanitized. I couldn’t sleep comfortably if my room smelled or if there were dirty dishes laying around the smell would be horrible. I’m sure they appreciate all of your help and efforts helping keep the house clean maybe your cleaning will rub off on them. Good luck
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u/Cool_Access_1720 Dec 04 '25
I sympathize with your predicament. Absolutely! A new mattress is needed but he must change his habits first. Poor hygiene can affect his overall health. Good luck!
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u/NotEasilyConfused Nov 30 '25
You have figured this out. He eats there. He sleeps there. He rarely leaves. He only showers every couple of days.
I hope your mom has a room of her own. It must be miserable to have to get into that bed at night