September 17, 2021
Can You Wash a Mattress Topper?
We know how life works. Spills and stains along with general use over time can lead most things, including your mattress topper, to getting a little dirty. So, how do you clean it properly? There's four key factors to consider before washing your mattress topper. Read on to find out exactly what they are.
Table of contents
Washing the casing around your mattress topper
Washing the filling in your mattress topper
Can you machine wash your mattress topper?
Choice of chemicals when cleaning stains from a topper
Sources
1. Washing the casing around your mattress topper
The majority of mattress toppers are encased with a removable cover. If yours has a removable cover then cleaning your mattress topper should be pretty straight forward. Simply remove the cover and then depending on your topper, you can either machine wash or hand wash. Our recommendation is if you do go for a machine wash, make sure you use a cold setting, especially with our bamboo mattress topper. Bamboo fibres will shrink over time with exposure to heat.
2. Washing the filling in your mattress topper
This one is a case by case basis and your product's manufacturer should supply very clear instructions on this. For our mattress topper, we recommend you do not soak your memory foam filling. The removable cover was designed to protect the memory foam core, so you simply just need to focus on washing that. Other mattress toppers with polyester fillings can be machine washed or dry cleaned but naturally you have to ensure it dries completely to avoid mould and also triple check your manufacturers instructions so you don't void your warranty.
3. Can you machine wash your mattress topper?
Our bamboo topper has a removable cover which means you can machine wash that. Do not soak your memory foam filling in water. Getting the memory foam to dry completely This will destroy its structure and the washing machine could tear the foam apart if not careful.
4. Choice of chemicals when cleaning stains from a topper
Our recommendation on this front is to use non-abrasive detergents and if possible more natural approaches such as baking soda.
Natural spray solution
Fill a spray bottle with half water and distilled vinegar. Lightly spray and blot stain with paper towels. You can also use a toothbrush to gently scrub as well. The goal is to not ruin the fibres by using abrasive methods.
Baking soda
As mentioned above, lightly spray stain mattress topper surface with water. Then layer on a thin coating baking soda and gently massage into surface. Allow it to sit for half an hour and then use a vacuum to remove the mixture. You can then use an odor removing solution like above as a final step after the baking soda has removed most of the stain.
Can you machine wash a memory foam topper?
No. Please avoid doing this. One the casing most likely will get damaged from the washing machine and two the memory foam core should never be fully submerged in a washing machine. To even fit one into a washing machine will be a mission in itself which would most likely damage the structure.
How often should you clean a mattress topper?
Our recommendation is to clean your mattress topper two to three times a year. Sleep Foundation also supports this recommendation. Whether this be airing it out and giving it a quick vacuum while you are washing your bed sheets. But in terms of giving it a proper clean, this will depend on your topper. If you have a removable case, then cleaning that every month or so should be adequate. If you have an all in one unit, then a good rule of thumb is giving it a good clean with each season.
How long does a mattress topper last?
A mattress topper can last from a year to 5 years depending on the type and its quality. A memory foam mattress topper will typically last 3 to 5 years. A cheap polyester topper might only last a year before it starts to get a bit funky and lose its integrity.
Wrapping up
Washing your mattress topper regularly is a great way to prolong its life and ensure you are sleeping in a hygienic environment. Just keep in mind the manufacturers instructions and also urge on the side of caution when using a washing machine.If unfortunately your mattress topper is spoiled beyond saving, then please check out our guide on how to dispose of your topper. Help to stop save the millions of mattresses and foam based bedding that ends up in our landfill!
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