How to clean a mattress topper
Wondering how to clean a mattress pad? If you answered yes to this question, you’ve come to the right place. This guide will walk you through the steps to follow to keep your topper looking and feeling like new.
As we explain in this year’s guide best mattress padsThese must-have accessories can breathe new life into an older bed and offer a budget-friendly alternative to investing in one of the best mattresses around. They can also be used to change the way your mattress sleeps or to increase the comfort of your mattress. For example, the Tuft & Needle Mattress Pad pictured above is great for softening a firm mattress.
But like all bedding, they need care to keep them hygienic and perform at their best. During most of today best mattress protectors can simply be put in the washing machine, cleaning a mattress topper is a little more complex. “The average person spends almost 19,000 hours asleep on the same mattress,” Jonathan Warren, director and bed specialist, teaches Time4Sleep (opens in new tab) says. “But most rarely, if ever, clean their mattress pads. Making sure your mattress topper is kept clean is an easy way to ensure you get a good night’s sleep.”
To find out how to clean a mattress topper from start to finish, what happens if you don’t, and how often you should refresh your topper depending on the material and frequency of use, read on.
Do I need to clean my mattress topper?
In short, yes. When you think about it, your mattress topper is the first line of defense between you and your mattress. Meaning? Your mattress topper is exposed to dust, dead skin, body oils, sweat, stains and spills.
And unfortunately, if left unclean, a bed pad can become a mecca for mites, bugs, bacteria, and other pests that you certainly don’t want in your sleeping area. But don’t just take our word for it. Warren tells us, “The average person can sweat up to 22 gallons a year while sleeping, so it’s important that we create a clean environment.”
While Martin Seeley, CEO of MattressNext day (opens in new tab) adds, “Many mattress pads are made of absorbent materials like memory foam, feathers, and latex. Unclean mattress pads, if not cleaned of bacteria from time to time, can cause skin irritation or give off an unpleasant odor.”
The same applies to all bedding items such as pillows, duvets and sheets, as well as your mattress itself. However, the frequency of washing depends on the item (see our guides on how to clean a mattress and how to clean a pillow for more information and advice).
How often should I clean my mattress topper?
You should clean your mattress topper every two months. “A thorough cleaning of the mattress topper every month or two can help fight allergy flare-ups you’re experiencing before bed and generally improve your overall health and sleep quality,” adds Warren.
How to clean a mattress pad: step by step
Ready to say goodbye to stains that have outlived receipt and hello to a fresh-looking (and smelling) mattress topper? Here is our step-by-step guide.
1. Remove dirt and debris
The first step in cleaning your mattress topper? Look for any foreign objects that may be on the surface of your topper. Whether it’s dirt, dust or pet hair, grab a vacuum and suck up any crumbs you spot.
2. Get your guns ready
Next, it’s time to gather the products you need so you can remove large, old, or stubborn stains. Warren’s first choice of cleaning products to remove stubborn stains? “Sodium bicarbonate and mattress cleaning spray,” he says. “[They] leaves no stains and neutralizes stubborn odors.”
Bicarbonate of Soda – Also known as baking soda in the US, but not to be confused with baking powder in the UK – is one of the best cleaning products for your home. It’s a natural cleansing product, meaning you’re not putting any harsh chemicals near your skin, and it also helps eliminate odor.
But along with baking soda and mattress cleaning spray, you can also clean the stains with a small amount of laundry detergent.
3. Remove stubborn stains selectively
Once you’ve gathered your cleaning products, it’s time to get to work. If using detergent, add a small amount of detergent and equal parts water to a bowl. Or, if you’re adamant about using the mattress cleaning spray, be sure to read the instructions on the back of the product before spraying on your mattress topper.
Warren tells us, “Dab the stain from the outside in (so you don’t accidentally make the stain bigger) and allow the spray to work its magic before wiping away with a damp cloth.”
4. Rely on baking soda
“When it comes to mattress cleaning tips, baking soda is your knight in shining armor,” says Warren. To give stains and odors an extra dose of cleanliness, take your baking soda, spread it on your mattress pad and leave it on for up to 24 hours. Or, as Warren’s advisers say, “As long as you can.” After all, we have to sleep.”
5. Suck it up
After leaving your mattress topper with the mattress cleaner and baking soda on it, grab your vacuum and prepare to give it a clean. As Jonathan explains: “Run the vacuum over the mattress topper and shake it out well. This will pick up any dust or dirt that is stuck to it.”
6. Let it air dry
After completing the above steps, allow your mattress topper to air dry for as long as necessary until completely dry.
7. Rotate your topper
But before you rush to put your mattress topper back on your bed, make sure you rotate your mattress topper 180 degrees. This helps extend its lifespan and ensure you wear it evenly without sagging in the same places.
You are done! So don’t leave your mattress pad to be cleaned afterwards. Especially now that you know how to clean a mattress pad and how easy it is.
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