A steam cleaner is safe for a mattress only when the manufacturer permits heat and moisture and the machine can spread low, controlled steam through a fabric tool. Vacuum the cover first, test a hidden patch and start at the lowest useful output; a pointed jet can concentrate heat, wet the filling and damage stitching or adhesive layers.
Technique matters as much as the specification. Keep the covered tool moving in short overlapping passes, avoid repeated treatment of seams and do not press down to force steam deeper. Foam, latex, wool, memory-foam toppers and waterproof protectors may tolerate moisture differently, so approval for an outer fabric does not automatically cover every layer beneath it.
Drying is part of safe cleaning, not an optional final step. Strip the bed, open windows or use active ventilation and leave the surface uncovered until it is dry throughout; this can take several hours and longer in a cool or humid room. Steam is suitable for a light surface refresh, but staining, biological contamination or moisture inside the mattress may require a different cleaning method or professional advice.
