For less than two euros and just minutes of effort, you can remove every stain from your mattress
Household chores take time and money, and specialised cleaning products do not always work. A homemade cleaning mix shared on Instagram by British influencer Vicki Collis attracted attention after going viral in March 2024. Said to tackle stubborn stains on mattresses and other surfaces, it costs £1.51 and is described as simple, effective and versatile, suitable for people who want to clean on a budget.
How the trick came about
Vicki Collis, a British influencer described as an “inventive mother,” devised the method after an incident with her daughter. Facing a persistent stain on a mattress, she wanted to remove it without damaging the fabric. Her Instagram demo showed an approach that many users found effective. According to Vicki, the results “live up to the promise,” offering a cheaper alternative to costly store-bought products.
The post rapidly went viral as Instagram users shared their own success stories. Several people posted before-and-after photos, which helped build trust in the method and spread the idea quickly. What started as a mattress hack has since been used on bathroom areas and a range of other household surfaces.
What you need and how to do it
The heart of Collis’s cleaning hack is three everyday items: baking soda, white vinegar, and dishwashing liquid. These common household staples combine to make a practical mix for a variety of cleaning jobs. The method is simple:
- Mix baking soda, white vinegar, and dish soap until a consistent texture is achieved.
- Apply directly onto the stain.
- Let the mixture sit for “a few minutes” to work its magic.
- Gently scrub with a soft brush.
- Wipe the area clean with a dry cloth.
Users report fast results, with some saying the mattress looked fresh “in no time”. For many, this low-cost technique is an alternative to buying multiple specialised cleaners.
Not just for mattresses
Although it was first used on mattresses, this DIY mix is adaptable. Vicki points out that it works well on shower grout, tiles, ceramic surfaces, and even skirting boards. The solution can restore dull surfaces and deal with spills, everyday marks and minor accidents across different materials. Its versatility makes it a useful addition to a cleaning routine.
Money, social buzz and what it means
At £1.51, the concoction is inexpensive compared with many commercial cleaners. Its simplicity and low cost make it an attractive option for routine cleaning. Vicki Collis herself calls it a “budget-friendly tool” that is “friendly to your wallet and effective enough to include in your daily cleaning routine, without a battery of products needed.”
The method’s spread on Instagram prompted many people to try the trick and share their results, further validating the approach. The response shows interest in accessible, efficient ways to look after the home.
Vicki Collis’s cleaning hack has appealed to people who prioritise cost, ease and effectiveness. It offers a straightforward option for those who want to keep their homes looking clean with minimal fuss and expense, and gives some users confidence to tackle household cleaning themselves.