How To Wash A Mattress Protector The Correct Way

Many people use mattress protectors to protect their mattresses from stains, dirt, and dust. However, this extra layer of protection may make mattress owners uncomfortable cleaning the protector itself. A dirty mattress protector can eventually stain your mattress, trigger allergies, and shorten the lifespan of your mattress.

Want to know how to keep your mattress protector clean? Read our guide to learn how to properly wash your mattress protector and mattress topper. We provide comprehensive instructions for basic cleaning, deep cleaning, and stain removal to keep your mattress protector clean.

Can mattress protectors be washed?
Yes, most types of mattress protectors, whether natural or synthetic, are washable. Regular washing removes allergens like mites and dead skin cells, and also prevents stains and odors from forming, extending the lifespan of your mattress protector.

Washing your mattress protector is essential, but different materials require different care instructions to keep it in good condition. Follow the manufacturer's care label to maximize the lifespan and durability of your mattress protector.

When should you wash your mattress protector?
A good rule of thumb is to wash your mattress protector every two months. However, there are some situations where more frequent washing is appropriate, such as:

If you're recovering from an illness, wash your mattress protector immediately, regardless of how long ago it was last washed. This helps remove any remaining bacteria and helps you breathe easier while you recover.
If you've recently spilled something on your mattress protector, wash it immediately to prevent the spill from seeping into the fabric. It's especially important to strip the mattress and wash the bedding if you need to clean urine from the mattress. Stubborn stains are more difficult to remove and can damage the fabric of the mattress protector.
If you suffer from allergies, such as a runny nose or sneezing, wash the fabric of your mattress protector every two weeks. This prevents allergens from accumulating in the fabric and triggering an allergic reaction.

How to Wash Your Mattress Protector?
To properly wash your mattress protector, check its label to see if it's machine washable or comes with gentle care instructions. Here's how to wash your mattress protector in both situations.

How to Machine Wash Your Mattress Protector
If your mattress protector is machine washable, follow the instructions below.

Check the care label. The label will show the recommended water temperature, drying cycle, and other special washing instructions.
Place your mattress protector in the washing machine. Generally, it's best to wash in cold water to prevent shrinkage. Use a mild detergent without fabric softener, as fabric softener can reduce the mattress protector's ability to absorb water.
Use a gentle wash cycle. Using the "gentle" or "gentle" machine setting is best for preventing fabric damage.
Rinse a second time. This thoroughly removes detergent residue from the fabric. Do not skip this step, as detergents can irritate your skin.

How to Clean a Non-Machine-Washable Mattress Protector
Some manufacturers may specify on the label that your mattress protector is not machine-washable. Here's how to keep it clean without a washing machine.

Remove the mattress protector from the mattress.
Dab the stain with a mild detergent to spot clean it.
Gently hand-wash the top of the protector with warm or cold water. Avoid using hot water to prevent shrinkage.
Let the protector air dry completely before returning it to the mattress.
When should I replace my mattress protector? Even if there's no noticeable wear, you should replace your mattress protector after one to two years. A mattress protector keeps your mattress fresh by blocking moisture and dust mites, but this means it's exposed to these substances.

Over the months, all that dander, body fluids, dust, and excess moisture accumulate. With proper washing and regular spot cleaning, your mattress protector can stay in good condition for up to two years. Always follow the recommended settings on the label to protect the protector's material and prevent it from losing shape.

Please note that any stains on your mattress protector should be washed immediately. If you have pets, especially those that shed a lot, you'll need to wash them more frequently. Pet owners may want to wash the protector every three weeks to keep it in good condition.

However, if your mattress protector already has noticeable holes or stubborn stains, it's time to throw it out, even if you've only had it for a few months. Remember: if your mattress protector is worn and damaged, it won't be as effective at keeping out excess moisture and mites, no matter how long you've had it.