A mattress protector is an investment, extending the life of your mattress and maintaining its cleanliness. It is an important enhancement to a valuable part of your life and the quality of your sleep. It guards your mattress from damage from spills, sweat and body fluids and keeps dust mites, bed bugs and allergens at bay. All of these are regular threats to your mattress. So, can you wash a mattress protector?
The answer is, yes – but there’s a bit more to it than just putting it in the washing machine. Maintaining the integrity of your mattress protector is also important if it is to continue to fulfil its remit. So, here are some thoughts on how to do that.
CHECK THE CARE INSTRUCTIONS
Step one is always to check the manufacturer’s instructions. Different covers require different methods, including the temperature at which washing is most effective, which detergents can be used, if bleach can be used and whether or not the protector can be washed in a machine – even the best drying method. Failing to follow these instructions can damage or reduce the life and effectiveness of your mattress protector.
WASHING YOUR PROTECTOR
If your protector is machine-washable, here are the steps you need to take.
- Pre-treatment. Any visible stains on your protector will require pre-treatment with a gentle stain remover.
- Washing. Wash the protector with similarly coloured linens or on its own. Avoid washing it with clothing, especially anything with a zip or hook on it, which may damage your protector. Choose a gentle washing cycle with cold or warm water, as per the care instructions on the label. Similarly, use a mild non-bio detergent to avoid damaging the material.
- Rinsing. Be sure to protect the integrity of the protector’s waterproof covering by rinsing it thoroughly to ensure all detergent has been removed. This covering can be broken down by detergent left in the material.
DRYING YOUR PROTECTOR
Some mattress protectors can be dried in a machine dryer, but others will need to be air dried. As with the washing method, check the care label and follow the instructions given there. Be careful not to leave your protector in the machine dryer, if you use one; this will avoid creasing. If you are air drying it, it should be laid flat on a clean, dry towel and, to avoid damaging the waterproof layer, out of direct sunlight. Heat is the culprit here so do not iron your protector.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I WASH MY PROTECTOR?
As a rule, wash your mattress protector every two to four months. However, if there has been any kind of spill or a stain has appeared, that’s the sign to wash your protector, no matter how recently you last did it.
IN SUMMARY…
Mattress protectors can be washed, and should be washed regularly. However, always follow the care instructions on the label to avoid damage. Remember, your protector not only protects, but it preserves.