Wondering how to wash your mattress? Don’t worry; we’re also going in-depth on what type of washing materials are best for cleaning a mattress topper or an entire bedding set so that everything looks fresh as new! This article will take you through every step and answer all of those questions.
- What is the best way to wash a mattress topper?
- How do mattress toppers differ?
- Is it possible to dry a mattress topper in the dryer?
- What is the difference between a mattress topper and a mattress pad?
The way a mattress topper should be washed depends on the instructions on the label since they are made from different materials and require different ways of caring for and cleaning.
How to wash a mattress topper?
Since mattress toppers are made from different materials, they demand unique washing methods. As per the instructions, the standard procedure for washing a topper is either hand or machine wash. Also, the technique of cleaning a topper depends on what type of cleaning you want. With that, let’s look into the details:
- Memory Foam
If you have a memory foam mattress topper, drop the idea of washing it in the machine as they contain synthetic chemicals which are flammable. So the best option is hand wash. Let’s see how:
- As memory foam accumulates sweat, dust, or dead skin cells, they require regular cleaning. If you have a water-based or handheld vacuum cleaner, it’s a plus point. Clean it by vacuuming the topper in circular motions.
- In memory foam, the germs don’t settle deep, unlike the others. So spot cleaning is effective. Use a mild soap solution, spray it on the required area and get a sponge to rub lightly. Then bring a towel and press it against the wet area to dry the topper and keep it overnight or air dry.
- To remove odours, use bicarbonate soda and spray it on the topper and vacuum it.
- Latex
Latex mattress toppers are hypoallergenic, which prevents dust, pet dander, or pollen. Although effortless to clean, specific latex toppers contain synthetic chemicals, so avoid machine wash.
- You can vacuum your topper for regular cleaning, shake it off, and naturally dry it but avoid direct sunlight.
- For spot cleaning, use a small quantity of cold water and mild detergent. To clear any residue, use a sponge to soak it. Press the sponge gently and spin it to remove stains. Leave it to naturally dry but if in a hurry, use a cool blow dryer.
- Feather
Down feather mattress toppers consist of feather filling, making them bulky, so a machine wash is better, but taking it to a laundrette is highly recommended. Here’s what you can do:
- While washing a feather topper, use warm water with a tender setting
- Use minimum and mild detergent.
- Avoid fabric softener and bleach.
- Conduct 1-2 rinse cycles to rinse off the detergent.
- Use the low setting for tumble dry.
- Naturally, dry it for 8-12 hours.
- Wool
Wool being a natural material, can easily be washed in a machine. But since it’s self-cleaning in nature, don’t wash it often. Now let’s look into the steps:
- To prevent the wool from shrinking, use a cool wash with a delicate cycle.
- Try using a wool-friendly detergent.
- After the machine washes, tumble dry.
- Dry the topper outdoors to eliminate odours.
- Fibre
Fibre mattress toppers are stuffed with polyester fibre and are affordable. They are low in maintenance and can be washed in a machine. Here’s the cleaning procedure:
- For washing, follow the regular cycle with cold water.
- You can use any detergent, but don’t use bleach.
- Dry on low heat.
- If required, air dry.
Different types of mattress toppers
With rising demands for specific requirements, there are varieties of mattress toppers in the market. And here’s the list:
- Memory Foam
The memory foam topper relieves your pressure point, contours your shape, and is temperature-sensitive. It helps with body ache and firms the mattress.
Pros:
- Absorbs motion
- Reduce sore joints
Cons:
- Expensive
- Hot to lie
- Latex
The latex toppers are durable, cool, and breathable but bounce quickly due to their elasticity. They contour your shape, and some are hypoallergenic.
Pros:
- Antimicrobial
- Absorbs motion
Cons:
- Expensive
- Feather
The feather toppers provide a fluffy and comfortable setting to the bed but require consistent fluffing as they get flat quickly.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Contracts less heat
Cons:
- Not hypoallergenic
- May poke
- Compresses
- Microfibre
Microfibre toppers are hypoallergenic, which provides standard outcomes as it is the cheapest amongst all.
Pros:
- No odour
- Cheap
Cons:
- Short lifespan
- Easily flattens
Can you dry a mattress topper in the dryer?
Before cleaning, check the label of the topper for clarity. Going forward, yes, you can dry only fibre, wool, and feather toppers in the dryer since they contain natural materials that won’t affect the topper’s posture.
To avoid shrinking or tearing, dry them on low heat. Latex or memory foam toppers cannot be dried due to synthetic chemicals present in the foam, which are flammable and may disrupt the structure.
Mattress topper vs Mattress Pad
People tend to confuse between a mattress topper and a mattress pad. So let’s clear the confusion.
Mattress topper
- Adds firmness and better support
- Alters the presence of a mattress
- Non-resistance to stains or spills
- Heavy to clean
- Thicker than a mattress pad
Mattress Pad
- Less effective compared to a mattress topper
- Prevents from stains or spills
- Adds softness
- Machine-washable
Conclusion
There are different mattress toppers; feather needs minimum cleaning, wool as minor as possible, fibre requires cleaning every two to three months, while latex and foam need spot cleaning.
Assuming that you follow these instructions, your mattress topper will last longer. Also, if you desire quality toppers, invest in the best mattress toppers, which provide excellent performance and a more extended warranty. Lastly, pamper your topper well for a pleasant sleep.