How to Wash a Mattress Protector

You’ve made a responsible and wise move and bought a mattress protector, but you might think to yourself, this thing is underneath my sheets, so it probably doesn’t need to be washed that regularly, right?

This is a common thought a lot of people who buy their mattress protectors have, but it is actually not correct; mattress protectors are like all other bedding and need regular washing; the waterproof layer does not make it dirtproof, only waterproof.

Let’s dive into the top reasons why you need to wash your mattress protector.

Extend the life of the protector.

Keeping your mattress protector clean is crucial for its longevity. When protectors go unwashed for extended periods, they accumulate body oils, sweat, and dirt. Over time, this build-up can compromise the waterproof layer, leading to its erosion. Regular washing prevents this build-up, preserving the protector’s effectiveness and durability.

Allergen Control

The Miracle Layer on your Protect-A-Bed Mattress Protector not only prevents fluids from seeping into your mattress but also acts as a barrier against allergens, bacteria, skin flakes and dust mites. While it effectively blocks these potential intruders from entering your mattress and creating a breeding ground, they can accumulate on the surface of the protector. Regular washing at 60°C is key as it effectively eliminates dust mites, ensuring your mattress protector remains fresh and clean, ready for continued use.

Odour Prevention

Stopping everyday body fluids like sweat and minerals passing through to your mattress is all in a night's work for a waterproof protector, but as we are all aware, they aren’t the nicest aromas for falling asleep with. Regularly washing your mattress protector plays a pivotal role in preventing odours and ensuring any accumulated scents are eliminated. The simple and effective act of washing not only maintains the protector’s hygiene but also contributes significantly to a fresh and inviting sleep environment.

Comfort

Few feelings rival slipping into fresh sheets at the end of the day, so why ruin that experience with a dirty, smelly and unhygienic mattress protector underneath? Regular washing eliminates these accumulated bacteria, allergens, body oils and sweat, revitalising the protector's softness and freshness. By maintaining a clean and hygienic surface, you ensure that slipping into bed doesn't just mean clean sheets but also a round, clean and comfortable sleeping environment.

How should you wash a mattress protector?

So, we have covered some great reasons as to why you should wash your mattress protector; now, let’s look at how you can wash it perfectly from the start and maintain it easily over the life of the protector.

Firstly, after you bring your new protector home and before you hop on your new mattress, it is advised to wash your protector before use. When the fabric is produced, it is starched for easier cutting during production. So, washing your mattress protector will remove any starch that may be remaining from this process.

Warm wash at 60°C: Unlike other mattress protectors, the waterproof Miracle Layer on a Protect-A-Bed mattress protector is designed to wash at 60°C. This heat is warm enough to kill bacteria and dust mites that may have taken up residence in your protector.

Wash with other linens; when you strip the bed and wash your sheets, it is advised to put your mattress protector in with them; this helps the waterproof layer not stick together for an even better clean.

Do not bleach or use solvents; use washing powder to clean your protector; if stains persist after washing, view these as a badge of honour; your protector did its job and saved your mattress. Don’t try to use bleach or solvents to remove the stain, as these will damage the waterproof layer and lead to it breaking down.

Do not iron or dry clean. The heat from these will destroy the waterproof layer, rendering your product a melted and sad mess.

Line dry your protector over a line span to maximise the airflow and reduce the drying time. 

When machine drying, it is recommended to dry them with other bed linen or towels in a medium setting; Dry at 60°C for best results. 

When should you wash your mattress protector?

It is important to know when to wash your mattress protector. If you leave it unwashed for long periods of time, you can damage it unknowingly. We recommend washing at least monthly as a minimum, but if you wash your bedding more regularly, it’s best to wash your protector at the same time.