Washing mattress protectors depend on the frequency of using them. The ones that are used regularly should be washed once in every two months. Others can be washed once in every 3 months.
Over time, however, a mattress protector will get dirty, and this will affect its qualities, so it is important to create a regular wash cycle for the mattress protector. Today we will discuss when you should wash a mattress protector, when to replace them, and also go over a few washing methods for different types of mattress protectors.
Before we get into the meat of things, let us answer a few questions.
- Do I need a mattress protector?
A mattress protector isn’t usually required, but getting one extends the life of your mattress and gives you some protection against allergies and pests such as bedbugs.
- Are mattress protectors and toppers the same?
While it is possible to use a mattress without a topper or protector, these two are, in fact, not the same. A mattress topper is primarily used to increase the comfort of mattress, and while it may offer a little protection, it is not a replacement for a mattress protector.
Types of Mattress Protectors
In the world of the mattress protector, there are about 3 main types of mattress protectors. Let’s go over them.
Zippered mattresses are known as encasement protectors. Basically, this protector encases the whole mattress, making it very resistant to dust and all manner of pests. As they don’t have to be maintained as much as other types of mattress protectors, they are commonly seen in hotels and establishments of the like.
Another type of mattress protector is the fitted protector. Fitted protectors are very common and seen all over. These have pockets on all four corners that fit around the mattress, so that it fits snugly and well.
Finally, the last type is one with elastic straps. Whilst it connects in the same way as fitted protectors, the elastic straps actually hold the protector securely in place while also allowing it to be removed with relative ease.
How Do Mattress Protectors Get Dirty?
One of the main reasons that any bedding gets dirty is due to body oils, dead skin cells and also from the airborne dust that lands on it. Often, staining is caused by sweating or spills. This can lead to a number of problems if it is excessive.
Most of the above applies to mattress protectors. When a mattress protector has gotten dirty, the user will feel uncomfortable and even detect a temperature change as the dirt restricts the protector’s breathability. In this case, special care must be taken and the mattress protector must be washed.
Of course, daily maintenance such as vacuuming can also help to extend a mattress protector’s life.
Another problem that may occur is spills. Whenever a spill takes place, it is imperative that it be cleaned immediately and the protector washed, to prevent staining.
How Often Should I Wash a Mattress Protector?
So, how often should a mattress protector be washed?
The answer to that lies in how often said protector has been slept on. A regular cleaning schedule will keep your mattress protectors free of most pests like dust mites or bed bugs. However, when it comes to washing, special care must be taken as harsh detergents can erode or damage the protector fabric materials.
And the water temperature must also be taken care of, as that may damage or deform the plastic lining that is popular on many mattress protectors.
The most used beds in the house must have their protectors washed every 2 months at the least. Care should always be taken to wash them gently, to not damage them.
Moving onto the guest bedrooms, those protectors should be washed every 3 months. Usually, guest beds don’t see too much use, but as stated before, dust and debris in the air can affect how well the mattress protector works.
In most households, there is usually someone who has some allergies and in order to keep allergy attacks at a minimum, the mattress protectors should be washed at least twice a month. The buildup of dander and dust mites may trigger allergic reactions that could lead to a runny nose, itchy skin or swollen eyes, to name a few.
There is no household where no one gets sick. A cold or the flu is exceptionally contagious and can spread to other members of the family very easily. It is always recommended that anything the sick person used be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. The same is recommended for said person’s mattress protector.
In this case, the mattress protector must be washed as soon as they have recovered, as leaving it unwashed can lead to the disease spreading to other members of a family, and there is also the risk of getting ill again.
As stated before, a spill should be regarded as high risk and should be cleaned immediately. This will prevent the mattress from soaking any of the liquid and also prevent staining on both the protector and the mattress.
Another thing to note is pets. Animals such as cats and dogs are prone to shedding seasonally and pet dander can cause allergies. Even if you aren’t allergic, dander can cause discomfort. So if you own pets, you may have to wash your mattress protector more often than normal.
Washing Methods to Use for Cleaning
Finally, we move onto the washing process, where the major cleanup occurs.
Let’s begin with machine washing. Washing machines are commonplace and with an item as large as a mattress protector, it’s just easier to use a machine to do all the heavy lifting. The key thing to keep in mind is to use a mild detergent, warm water and a gentle wash cycle. Harsh chemicals may damage the fabrics and high heat or rough movement can deform or outright damage any plastic or latex lining the protector may have.
While that covers the basics of cleaning, there may be some stains that are a little stubborn. Hydrogen Peroxide is a well-known stain remover, sanitizer and deodorizer. Even though peroxide is a tough cleaner, it’s great for spot cleaning.
Finally, we arrive at the job of drying the mattress protector. The process here is quite straightforward. If you’re using a dryer, it’s best to use the lowest possible temperature with the mildest setting if you’re using a tumble dryer.
Another way to go about it would be to air dry the protector. If you’re drying it outside, it’s best to hang it out of the sun as high temperature may affect any plastic or latex materials in the protector. Another thing to take notice of would be the way the protector is hung on the line.
You must be careful so that it is not folded when hung, as that may leave a crease that can cause some discomfort when in use. If it is not possible to dry outdoors, it is advised to use a fan so all the moisture may be removed from the protector.
Final Verdict
A mattress protector is very useful and helps to prevent allergy attacks and prolongs the life of your mattress. We hope this article helps you know how often you should wash a mattress protector.
