Can You Wash a Mattress Topper & How Often Should You Do It

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James Miller
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James is an environmentalist, sustainability expert and senior editor at TheRoundup, specializing in testing non-toxic, organic and eco-friendly products. James, his wife and two daughters believe in chemical-free and zero-waste living. They aim to leave the planet in a better state than we found it, for future generations to enjoy.
James Miller
Updated: March 16, 2024

I've used organic hypoallergenic mattress toppers for many years and I've seen firsthand what a huge difference they can make. However, bad things can happen if you don't keep them clean.

Despite what some people think - you can wash your mattress topper. In fact, you should do so on average every 3 months, although this varies depending on the type of topper you have. More on that later.

In this guide, I'll show you how to clean your mattress topper without damaging it, how some people do this wrong, and the consequences if you don't clean them properly.

Give me 5 minutes of your time and I'll help you keep your topper in showroom condition for years to come...

How Often Should You Wash a Mattress Topper?

The frequency of how regularly you need to clean a mattress topper depends on the material it is made from. Some materials are more absorbent than others and therefore need more frequent cleaning.

  • Cotton: Every 2-3 months.
  • Wool: Every 3-4 months.
  • Memory Foam: Every 6 months.
  • Latex: Every 6 months.
  • Feather or Down: Every 3-6 months.
  • Synthetic Fill (e.g., polyester, microfiber): Every 2-3 months.
  • Bamboo: Every 2-4 months.

If your mattress topper has been on your bed for longer than this, you'll probably want to clean it soon. But first, you need to know the right way to do it.

How to Wash and Dry Each Type of Mattress Topper Without Damaging It

Different types of mattress toppers need very specific care, so make sure you identify what material yours is made from before you start.

Most mattress toppers have a care label that contains instructions on how to wash and dry them. Failing that, you can contact the manufacturer for help.

However, if your care label is faded or missing, or you don't know who the manufacturer is, then you can follow these guidelines instead.

Cotton Toppers

Most 100% cotton mattress toppers are machine washable. Use a gentle cycle with cold water and a mild detergent.

Tumble dry your mattress topper on a low heat setting or air dry. High temperatures can cause shrinkage, so avoid hot water and high heat settings.

Note that if you have a hybrid organic mattress topper (for example, natural latex core surrounded by cotton layers) then you should treat this as if it were a latex topper, and follow the instructions below.

If your topper has a removable cotton cover then that can be machine washed while the core can be cleaned separately.

Wool Toppers

Wool toppers and pads can usually go in the washing machine. Put them on a gentle cycle with wool-friendly detergent.

Lay flat or hang to dry, as wool can shrink or lose shape in high heat. Avoid direct heat sources and consider using a wool conditioner for extra softness.

Again, if you have a hybrid topper with a wool layer above a latex core, treat it as if it were a latex topper, and do not put it in the washing machine.

Memory Foam Toppers

Memory foam mattress toppers cannot go in the washing machine, as this ruins the foam's structure. I've seen the results after somebody tried this and it makes such a mess that the topper becomes unusable. They require very gentle cleaning to avoid damage.

You need to spot clean a memory foam mattress topper using a soft cloth and a solution of mild detergent and water. Be careful to avoid saturating the foam.

Let it air dry completely in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight, as heat can cause memory foam to break down.

Latex Toppers

Organic and natural latex, like memory foam, should be spot-cleaned. Use a mild detergent and water, gently dabbing the area.

Rinse with a damp cloth and air dry thoroughly. Latex is sensitive to sunlight and high temperatures, so avoid these when drying.

Down and Feather Toppers

Wash down and feather toppers in a large, front-loading machine without an agitator. Use a mild, down-safe detergent and cold water. Tumble dry on low with dryer balls or tennis balls to prevent clumping, ensuring thorough drying.

Polyester and Other Synthetics

These toppers are generally more durable and can be machine-washed with similar fabrics. Use a mild detergent and wash on a gentle cycle. Tumble dry on low heat or air dry to prevent damage from high temperatures.

Bamboo Toppers

Most bamboo mattress toppers are actually a bamboo cover with a gel or memory foam core. The cover can typically be machine-washed in cold water on a gentle cycle with a mild detergent. It's important to avoid harsh chemicals or bleach. The core, like other foam or gel toppers, should be spot-cleaned by hand.

For drying, bamboo topper covers can be tumble-dried on a low heat setting to maintain their integrity and prevent shrinkage. Direct sunlight and high heat drying should be avoided to preserve the natural qualities of the bamboo fibers.

How Do You Refresh a Mattress Topper Without Washing It

If you want to keep your mattress topper fresh and odor-free between washes, you can try one or more of the following tips:

  1. Airing Out: Remove the bedding and mattress protector if you have one, and expose your topper to fresh air for natural odor and moisture elimination. You can stand it on its side and place it outdoors, or just near an open window. Remember that natural latex and memory foam should not be exposed to direct sunlight.
  2. Deodorizing: Sprinkle baking soda, leave for hours, then vacuum for effective odor absorption.
  3. Steam Cleaning: Use light steam for materials that can handle moisture, refreshing the surface without washing.
  4. Essential Oils: Create a water and essential oil mix and spray it on for a natural, subtle fragrance.

These additional methods enhance the freshness of your mattress topper effectively between washings. I recommend you do them every time you wash your sheets.

How to Take Care of a Mattress Topper

As well as cleaning your mattress topper regularly, the following care tips can help make it last longer and perform better over its lifespan.

  1. Regular Vacuuming: Vacuum the topper gently to remove dust and allergens. This is particularly crucial for non-washable types.
  2. Spot Cleaning: Use a mild, eco-friendly detergent for any stains, and apply with care for delicate materials.
  3. Protective Covers: Add an organic, breathable mattress protector to shield against body oils, sweat, and spills, reducing deep cleaning frequency.
  4. Flipping and Rotating: Regularly change the topper's position to evenly distribute wear and maintain shape, aiding in overall freshness.
  5. Proper Storage: Store the topper in a cool, dry environment to prevent mold and mildew. This is especially important for natural materials.

These simple care practices help ensure the longevity and hygiene of your mattress topper, maintaining its quality and comfort for years to come.

5 Most Common Mistakes in Mattress Topper Care

You've learned how to clean your topper the right way - but what happens when you do it wrong?

Over the years I've seen many people making these simple mistakes, which can have catastrophic effects - often causing severe damage or rendering it completely unusable.

So unless you're particularly keen to invest in a new mattress topper sooner than you need to, these are the main things you'll want to avoid doing.

  1. Using Harsh Detergents: Harsh chemicals can damage the fibers of mattress toppers, especially organic and natural materials. Always opt for mild, eco-friendly detergents.
  2. Overwetting: Particularly for memory foam and latex toppers, using too much water can damage the material. Spot clean and avoid soaking these types.
  3. Direct Sunlight Exposure: While airing out is beneficial, direct sunlight can degrade certain materials like memory foam and latex, causing them to lose their supportive qualities.
  4. Ignoring Manufacturer’s Instructions: Each topper type has specific care instructions. Overlooking these can lead to irreversible damage. Don't put a topper in the washing machine unless the label specifically says you can - I guarantee you won't like the results!
  5. High Heat in Drying: Using high heat settings in dryers can shrink or warp materials like cotton, wool, and bamboo. Air dry or use low heat settings.

Always remember: keep it clean, but be careful not to damage it!

Health Benefits of a Clean Mattress Topper

Maintaining a clean mattress topper is important for your overall health and provides several benefits:

  1. Allergy Relief: Regular cleaning reduces allergens like dust mites and pet dander, crucial for allergy sufferers.
  2. Skin Health: A clean topper prevents irritation caused by bacteria and sweat, promoting healthier skin.
  3. Respiratory Health: Eliminating dust and allergens helps prevent respiratory issues, particularly in asthma sufferers.
  4. Sleep Quality: A fresh, clean sleeping environment enhances comfort, leading to better sleep quality.
  5. Hygiene: Regular cleaning prevents the growth of bacteria and mold, ensuring a hygienic sleep surface.

Conversely, if you don't keep your mattress topper clean, you'll experience the opposite. Namely, increased risk of allergy and skin irritation, and poorer respiration and sleep quality.

When to Replace Your Mattress Topper

Mattress toppers typically last 3-5 years, depending on the material and how well you care for them.

Signs it's time to replace your topper may include noticeable wear and tear, reduced comfort, persistent odors, and the inability to maintain its shape.

When you feel you need a new topper, our buyer's guide will help you choose the best available option.

When replacing, make sure you dispose of your old mattress topper in an eco-friendly way:

  1. Recycling: Some materials, like latex and foam, can be recycled. Check local facilities for options.
  2. Donation: If in good condition, donate to shelters or charitable organizations.
  3. Repurposing: Use old toppers for pet beds, packing materials, or home insulation.

Responsible disposal helps reduce your environmental impact - and it feels good to do the right thing!

Are Mattress Toppers Hygienic?

Mattress toppers are very hygienic, and they'll stay that way with proper care.

Regular cleaning prevents the buildup of dust mites, allergens, and bacteria. However, neglecting maintenance can lead to health and hygiene issues as I described earlier.

Natural materials like wool and cotton promote better air circulation, reducing moisture and preventing mold growth. Memory foam and latex, while less prone to dust mites, still require regular cleaning and airing out to prevent odors and maintain hygiene.

Whether or not your sleep environment helps or hinders your health depends largely on how well you care for it. So you may want to clean your mattress topper more regularly if you haven't done so up to now.

The Final Word

The key to maintaining a mattress topper in top condition lies in understanding and adhering to the specific care requirements of its material.

Regular cleaning, appropriate refreshment methods, and preventive measures like using protective covers contribute significantly to its hygiene and longevity.

By following these guidelines, you not only ensure a clean, comfortable sleeping environment but also align with eco-friendly practices. Maintaining what we have means we buy new things less often, which is an important part of zero-waste and sustainable living.

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James Miller
James Miller
James is an environmentalist, sustainability expert and senior editor at TheRoundup, specializing in testing non-toxic, organic and eco-friendly products. James, his wife and two daughters believe in chemical-free and zero-waste living. They aim to leave the planet in a better state than we found it, for future generations to enjoy.
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