A mattress cover, often called a mattress protector, functions as a barrier that encases your mattress, guarding it against spills, dirt, and allergens. This protective layer keeps moisture and debris from penetrating the mattress core. While bed sheets are washed weekly, the mattress cover absorbs anything that passes through the sheets. Keeping this barrier clean is important for maintaining a hygienic sleep environment and extending the lifespan of your mattress.
Standard Washing Frequency Guidelines
For individuals with typical sleeping habits and no specific sensitivities, the general recommendation is to wash the mattress cover every one to two months. This routine strikes a balance between maintaining cleanliness and preventing unnecessary wear on the material. Even with regular sheet changes, the mattress cover accumulates bodily substances such as dead skin cells, perspiration, and natural body oils over time. These substances act as food for microscopic organisms, making routine cleaning necessary.
Washing the cover every four to eight weeks helps prevent the accumulation of dust mite allergens, which are a common trigger for respiratory issues. Dust mites thrive in the warm, humid environment created by a sleeping body and feed on the skin cells a person sheds daily. Regularly cleaning the cover prevents this buildup, which maintains a more hygienic sleeping surface beneath your sheets.
Situational Adjustments for Frequency
Certain situations require a more frequent washing schedule to maintain a healthy sleep environment. For those who suffer from severe allergies, particularly to dust mites, washing the mattress cover every two to three weeks is advised. This increased frequency helps minimize the concentration of allergens that can trigger night-time symptoms like coughing or a stuffy nose.
Households that allow pets to sleep on the bed should increase the washing frequency to at least once a month. Pet dander, hair, and outdoor debris tracked onto the bed can quickly settle into the mattress cover fibers, necessitating more routine removal. Similarly, individuals who experience excessive night sweating or live in high-humidity climates should aim to wash their cover every two to three weeks. Moisture buildup creates an environment where mold and mildew can develop, and frequent washing helps eliminate this risk. If a person has been ill, the cover should be laundered immediately upon recovery to remove any lingering bacteria or viruses.
Step-by-Step Washing Instructions
Before washing, consult the care label provided by the manufacturer. These labels offer specific instructions designed to preserve the integrity of the material, especially any specialized waterproof layers. Most mattress covers can be machine-washed, but they typically require a gentle or delicate cycle to prevent damage.
Use cold or lukewarm water, as hot water can degrade waterproof polyurethane backing and cause the material to shrink. Use a mild detergent and avoid harsh chemicals like bleach or fabric softeners, which compromise the cover’s protective qualities. High heat should be avoided during drying, as it can melt or warp waterproof materials. Tumble drying on a low or no-heat setting, or air drying, is the safest method to ensure the cover retains its shape and function.