We will teach you two steps to master how to clean mattress protector correctly. Remember that proper maintenance of this bed accessory will also be beneficial for your mattress. More so, the mattress protector acts as the barrier for oils, moisture, and dust.
To maintain good bed hygiene, you must know how to wash it properly. Unlike other accessories like mattress toppers, you can use a washing machine to clean a mattress protector. You can continue reading to know more.
How Do You Clean A Mattress Protector?
Step #1. Put it in the washer
While mattress pads and toppers are considered mattress protectors because of their effect on the bed, a true protector is washable in the washing machine. This accessory range from fabric that acts like a fitted sheet, but some have other materials that contribute to the protection against dust mites and liquids. Please check the label of the specific product you’re using before putting it in the washer to avoid issues.
Once you confirmed that you could use a washing machine, follow the instructions regarding the type of cleaner, temperature, or cycle appropriate for your mattress protector. Generally, the best way to use a washing machine on a mattress protector is in the gentle cycle with lukewarm water and mild detergent. We want to remind you about the only risks of harsh cleaners like bleach or using something high heat such as dry cleaners or hot water.
After washing, you can proceed to finish the rinse cycle. Your mattress protector should be free of any soap and suds as they can encourage mold and mildew. And speaking of which, you must dry the material thoroughly before using it to avoid fungal growth.
Step #2. Dry
Again, you should follow the instructions on your protector’s tag, even when drying it. You can tumble dry the material or, much better, hang it outside and let the sun and outdoor air do the work. If the weather is too damp, you can place it in the room with a circulating fan.
Do note that if you opt to use a dryer, the safest way to do so is in a low tumble or low heat setting. High and excess heat can damage the materials, especially those mattress protectors with waterproofing features. Therefore, don’t be tempted to iron the mattress protector afterward.
Can You Wash Mattress Protector With Sheets?
You can certainly wash your mattress protector along with bedsheets or even some clothing. Be mindful that everything in the washer doesn’t have parts that can scratch or make a hole in the materials. More so, they should have the same color to prevent staining.
What about when drying? You can also tumble dry your mattress protector with other accessories like bedsheets. But as we have emphasized throughout this guide, check the label on the materials to avoid issues.
What are the types of mattress protectors?
To further help you maintain your bed accessories, let us quickly differentiate the kinds of mattress protectors. The common ones you’ll see in the market use cotton, polyester, and down. But if you want something waterproof, you can also expect polyurethane or vinyl.
Most of the time, the concept of washing like with like is also applicable with mattress protectors and other bed accessories. Nonetheless, almost all types of materials are compatible with gentle washing, mild detergent, and thorough drying. It would also be best to address odors, spills, or stains as soon as possible rather than let them penetrate the material.
Are You Supposed To Wash Mattress Protectors?
Most mattress protectors and even mattress pads are washable in the machine’s delicate cycle or by hand-washing. As long as the manufacturer doesn’t have any indication against soaking the materials, it should be safe to wash these accessories. Remember that the mattress protector collects all the dust, oils, moisture, and even spills on the bed.
You have to keep it clean to maintain bed hygiene and ensure that the mattress underneath stays well-protected. But what about waterproof mattress protectors, you say. Should you wash them too?
Yes, you should also wash your protector even if it’s waterproof. You can apply the same steps in the guide above. And regardless of the type of mattress protector you use, please wash it every two months as part of your maintenance.
How mattress protectors work
There are different forms of mattress protectors, but the general gist of using them is in the name itself. It will protect the mattress from getting dirty and worn down. Depending on the construction and materials, some will even resist mold and bugs.
There are also waterproof mattress protectors to keep spills at bay. Overall, having a mattress protector keeps your bed in good condition longer. It will be easier to maintain bed hygiene since it’s readily washable compared to the mattress itself.
Conclusion
If you want to extend the lifespan of your bed, be sure to use a mattress protector. But since it gets exposed to stains and dirt, you should also know how to clean mattress protector correctly. To summarize this easy-to-follow guide, you only need to put it in the washer.
Use the gentle cycle with mild detergent and lukewarm water, and then rinse well. Finally, tumble dry the protector or dry it outside thoroughly. It’s a simple process you can do every two months to maintain bed hygiene.