How To Wash An Electric Mattress Pad In 2 Easy Steps

It only takes two steps to master how to wash an electric mattress pad. Our guide below is based on how most products in the market recommend being cleaned. However, it would be best to check the label of the specific mattress pad you’re using to avoid issues. 

Remember that a mattress pad also acts as the bed protector. It would help if you also kept it clean to ensure that stains, odor, and allergens won’t build up. So without further ado, here is the safest way to do so:

How To Wash An Electric Mattress Pad

 

How To Wash An Electric Mattress Pad At Home

 

Step #1. Spot clean

Because of an electric mattress pad’s overall construction, you can assume that you can’t put it in the washing machine for cleaning. Instead, you have to target the stains by spot cleaning to ensure that you won’t damage the pad. We also advise checking the indications from the brand as some models may require certain practices for cleaning. 

For most electric mattress pads in the market, you can use a mild detergent for treating stains. Mix equal parts of it with water and mist the affected areas without soaking the material. Then, dab the moistened stains with a piece of cloth until your remove the stain. 

 

Step #2. Dry 

After you have removed the stains, you must dry the pad thoroughly before using it again. Dampness can encourage mold growth, and it will be unsafe to use something electric when wet. You can hang the pad on your clothesline or place it over something slatted, so the air also circulates underneath. 

Remember also to flip the pad to dry the other side. If the weather outside is wet, you can place the pad indoors with a circulating fan. Some homeowners even drape it over the curtain rod if you have no space to dry it.

 

What is the difference between an electric mattress pad and an electric blanket?

Before we go on to other topics, we want to differentiate electric pads from electric blankets quickly. You are probably thinking that cleaning them involves similar practices, and you are mostly right! Both should be unplugged before cleaning and entirely dried before reusing. 

So, where do they differ? Of course, one is a blanket, and the other is a pad. However, you’ll also notice that pads are more common in Europe, and blankets are more prevalent in the US. 

 

Can You Dry A Heated Mattress Pad In The Dryer?

As we have reminded you earlier, always read the instructions of the particular pad you’re using beforehand. This is also applicable when checking if you can dry it in the dryer. The safest way to dry an electric pad is by air-drying, but some models allow dryer use. 

For the latter, you want to preheat the appliance on a low setting for about 2 minutes before tumble drying the mattress pad for 10 minutes. Be sure to use a low temperature and finish the drying outside. You read that right; get the mattress pad out while it’s still damp, and then finish it by air-drying without clothespins or anything over it. 

 

Can you use a washing machine on an electric mattress pad?

While we prefer spot-treating stains on the pad and many models in the market are not machine-washable, it’s still worth noting that some brands allow using the washer. An example is Sunbeam, where they encourage to presoak the mattress pad in mild detergent and cold water for 15 minutes. 

Then, you can put it on your washing machine’s gentle cycle for 2 minutes without bleach or any harsh cleaners. Rinse with cold water, and you can even spin dry the pad in the machine. However, sprays, ironing, and wringing the pad are prohibited. 

 

Can I Put A Mattress Cover In The Washing Machine?

Most mattress covers and protectors are safe to wash in the washing machine. However, some materials might recommend against it as it can shrink the cover. You also want to ensure that you’re using mild detergent and the cold or lukewarm gentle cycle on your washing machine. 

Another common tip we see among brands is to wash the mattress cover with similar materials. It could be your bedding, blankets, or pillow covers of similar materials or colors, so the load is ideal inside the washer. Once done, you might be able to use the dryer or hang the cover outside to dry. 

 

How often should you wash your mattress protector?

Because of its primary purpose, a mattress protector will get dirty quickly. You can wash it regularly every two months to prevent stains and odors and maintain good bed hygiene. However, you can also make it more or less often, depending on how dirty or smelly it gets. 

Another question that might pop to mind is when to say goodbye to your mattress protector? Be it your sheet or pad; you can replace it after one to two years. After all, a worn-down protector defeats its purpose of keeping the mattress underneath well-protected.

 

Conclusion

Do you need to clean your electric mattress pad? We have taught in this article how to wash an electric mattress pad correctly and safely. A quick recap of what we discussed is how you can spot-treat stains and dry the pad. 

Some brands are also machine-washable and allow drying in the dryer. Nonetheless, avoid bleach or dry cleaning on your electric mattress pad to avoid damaging it.