How to Wash a Mattress Protector the Quick, Easy & Green Way

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Arabella Ruiz
By 
Arabella Ruiz is a senior researcher at The Roundup, specializing in data and statistics. She lives in San Antonio, Texas and has been interested in the environment from an early age. Arabella loves to campaign for environmental causes and fundraise for charities that aim to preserve wildlife habitat, protect endangered species or help people with climate change problems.
Arabella Ruiz
Updated: March 15, 2024

If you're like most people, you probably don't give much thought to your mattress protector. After all, it's just a piece of fabric that goes over your mattress, right?

Wrong! Getting the best organic waterproof mattress protector is vital because it's an important part of your sleep environment which, if washed correctly, can last for years.

Not only that, it keeps your organic mattress in tip-top condition, meaning that lasts longer too!

So how do you wash a mattress protector in an eco-friendly way, and prolong its life for as long as possible?

It's easier than you think, and in the next 5 minutes, you'll learn everything you need to know...

Why Should I Wash My Mattress Protector?

You spend around eight hours every night in your bed, so it's important to keep it clean and free of dust, dirt, and other allergens.

A mattress protector can help to do this, but only if it's kept clean. Otherwise, it can actually harbor more dirt and dust mites than the mattress itself.

Synthetic mattress protectors are made from a variety of materials, including polyester, cotton, and vinyl. Organic mattress protectors are made from natural materials such as GOTS-certified organic cotton or wool, and organic latex.

They work by creating a barrier between your mattress and any dust, dirt, or moisture. Most are machine-washable, but it's important to check the care instructions before washing.

If you don't wash your mattress protector regularly, it can start to harbor dust mites, which are a common allergen.

Which Types of Mattress Covers Can Be Washed?

Most types of removable mattress covers can either be hand-washed or machine-washed. This includes organic, vinyl, polyester, and waterproof mattress covers.

However, there may be individual exceptions to this so remember to always check the label for washing instructions before you wash mattress protectors of any type.

If your mattress protector is built-in and not removable, you can still spot-clean it by hand, using the same methods as you would use to clean a latex mattress.

Can You Put a Mattress Protector in the Washing Machine?

can you wash a mattress protector in the washing machine

Mattress covers are designed to protect your mattress from spills, stains, and general wear and tear. Most mattress covers are made from machine-washable materials, such as cotton or polyester.

So yes, in most cases you can wash a mattress protector in the washing machine.

However, it is important to check the care label before washing - some mattress covers may require special care, such as dry cleaning. In addition, be sure to use cold water and mild detergent.

A combination of eco laundry detergent and a gentle cycle will help you avoid damaging the mattress cover.

Once the cover is washed, it is important to dry it thoroughly before putting it back on the mattress. Otherwise, you run the risk of mildew or mold growth. With a little care, you can keep your mattress cover clean and fresh - and extend the life of your mattress.

Can You Vacuum a Mattress Cover?

Yes, you can vacuum a mattress cover, and in fact, it's recommended that you do so regularly.

Most people don't vacuum their mattress covers nearly enough.

If you have a busy lifestyle, it's easy to forget about this important chore. But neglecting to vacuum your mattress cover can lead to a build-up of bed bugs, dust, dirt, and other allergens that can wreak havoc on your sleep.

Not to mention, it can also shorten the lifespan of your mattress cover.

The good news is that you can easily vacuum a mattress cover. Just be sure to use your upholstery attachment, or a handheld vacuum cleaner, to avoid damaging your mattress pad or cover.

How Do You Remove Stains From a Mattress Cover?

Whether you're dealing with a fresh spill or an old stain, it's important to act quickly when it comes to mattress covers.

The first step is to identify the type of stain you're dealing with. If it's a water-based stain, such as from sweat or spills, you'll want to blot the area with a clean, dry towel.

If you have a waterproof mattress cover then this should come off easily. If you have an organic cotton or a synthetic polyester mattress cover then try to get to the stain as soon as possible, before it gets a chance to soak in.

For oil-based stains, such as makeup or lotion, you'll want to use a non-toxic, eco-friendly dry-cleaning solvent.

If the stain is still visible, you can try applying a mild detergent and then rinsing it with cold water. Do not use hot water, as this can set the stain.

Once you've treated the stain, let the mattress protector air-dry before putting it back on the mattress.

How Do You Dry a Mattress Cover?

You need to let your mattress protector dry naturally since most cannot be put in the tumble dryer as this can damage the cover.

The first step is to remove the cover from the washing machine and shake it out. This will help to loosen any dirt or debris that may be clinging to the fabric. Next, place the cover on a clothesline or drying rack and allow it to air dry.

If possible, hang the wet mattress protector outside in the sun, this will give it a clean fresh smell when it goes back on your bed.

Remember to make sure your mattress cover is fully dry before you put it back on your bed and attach your fitted sheet on top.

How Often Should You Wash Mattress Protectors?

Mattress protectors are an important part of keeping your mattress clean and free of dust, dirt, and other allergens. But how often should you wash them? The answer may surprise you.

If they are used every night, mattress protectors should be washed at least once a month, and more often if you have pets or allergies. That's because they can collect dust, pet hair, and other allergens over time.

If you have pets, you may need to wash your mattress protector more often to prevent pet hair from accumulating. And if you have allergies, washing your mattress protector regularly can help to reduce your exposure to allergens.

So don't wait until your mattress protector is visibly dirty - wash it regularly to keep your mattress clean and fresh.

If your mattress protector is used infrequently, for example, if it is in a guest bedroom, then washing it every 3 months is fine.

How to Refresh a Mattress Cover Without Washing

Over time, even the most well-made mattress cover can start to lose its shape and become stained.

If your mattress cover is starting to look a little worse for wear, but you don't have time to wash it right away, then all is not lost. With a few simple steps, you can refresh your mattress cover and extend its life.

First, start by vacuuming the cover to remove any dust or debris. Then, spot-clean any stains with a mild laundry detergent.

Alternatively, you can cover the mattress protector with a sprinkling of baking soda, and leave it for around 30 minutes. Then use your vacuum to remove the baking soda. You'll find it lifts stains and odors superbly, which is why it's recommended for deep-cleaning memory foam mattresses as well.

Once the cover is clean, use a lint roller to remove any remaining fuzz or lint. Finally, hang the cover in a sunny spot to air out for a few hours before putting it back on your mattress.

With these simple tips, you can keep your mattress cover looking like new for longer.

When Should I Replace a Mattress Protector?

A mattress protector is an important part of keeping your mattress clean and lasting a long time. They are usually made of a waterproof and stain-resistant material that helps to protect the mattress from spills, sweat, and other liquids. Over time, however, the material can break down, exposing the mattress to damage.

Additionally, dust mites and other allergens can build up in the fabric, causing irritation for people with allergies.

For these reasons, it is generally recommended that you replace your mattress protector 1-2 years - or sooner if you notice that it is especially worn, torn, or damaged, or if you have stains and odors that you cannot remove by washing.

By doing so, you can help prolong the life of your mattress and ensure a comfortable night's sleep.

The Final Word

Mattress protectors are an important part of your bedding ensemble, and they should be washed regularly to keep them clean and free of allergens and make them last longer.

Fortunately, most removable mattress covers can go in the washing machine, using a gentle or delicate setting, which makes them easy to keep clean.

Eventually, though, even when they're cleaned regularly, there comes a time when even a good mattress protector will need to be replaced.

That's why it's so important to buy eco-friendly mattress covers that don't harm the environment when they're made and can be disposed of responsibly.

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Arabella Ruiz
Arabella Ruiz
Arabella Ruiz is a senior researcher at The Roundup, specializing in data and statistics. She lives in San Antonio, Texas and has been interested in the environment from an early age. Arabella loves to campaign for environmental causes and fundraise for charities that aim to preserve wildlife habitat, protect endangered species or help people with climate change problems.
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