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Beth asked: Can I put a mattress protector that has one fabric side and a plastic backing in the dryer? It’s a fitted fabric cover that you put over the mattress and under the sheets. One side is fabric, the other is plastic. It is one that I purchased at Target, so it isn’t a specialty product. It just has no wash/dry instructions. Thanks!
Mattress
protectors provide an excellent barrier between the mattress and any dirt or moisture that may occur during use. The plastic-backed pads provide an extra layer of protection that is especially useful for a child’s bed. Most mattress pads have some type of waterproof or water-resistance feature that can be removed with improper cleaning.
You Will Need:
- Laundry detergent
- Washer and dryer
Steps to Wash the Mattress Pad:
- First check the care tag on the pad for any specific cleaning instructions. There are a few mattress pads that are dry clean only, but those are typically specialty items and filled with a non-washable filler. Traditional mattress pads are usually safe to wash and dry with no adverse effects.
- Fill the washing machine with warm water and add the appropriate amount of laundry detergent.
- Place the mattress pad along with other linens into the washer and run through a normal cycle.
- Mattress pads should be dried on low to medium heat along with other linens.
- If the mattress pad is waterproof, but has no additional backing (such as the plastic backing), do not use fabric softener during the wash cycle or dryer sheets while drying. The fabric softener will damage and/or remove the waterproof coating that is on the surface of the pad.
- Once dry, replace the mattress pad over the mattress for use.
Additional Tips and Ideas
- It is recommended that sheets be cleaned weekly and mattress covers to be cleaned bi-weekly or monthly depending on the soil level.
- Did you know that most mattress warranties are void if there are ANY stains on the mattress? A good quality mattress pad/protector will not only keep your mattress clean, it will keep the warranty valid.
- If your mattress pad cannot be washed, then you will need to spot clean it or consider steam cleaning it with an upholstery or clothing steamer.
- If the mattress pad becomes twisted due to the elastic corners, this can prevent it from drying fully in the dryer. Be sure to untwist it before putting it in the dryer, and if needed, check the dryer half-way through to ensure it has not become twisted again.
How do I clean a fitted plastic sheet that is on our child’s bed for when he wets the bed?
Can I wash a heated mattress in a front loading washing machine? If so, what are the steps to follow? I don’t want to ruin the mattress pad.
Ann,
With items like this it is always best to call the company for instructions or search online for the user manual. In general, as long as the electrical hardware (the plug and control box) are removable, then it should be machine washable on a gentle cycle. Follow the instructions in the guide According to the Pine-Sol website, Pine-Sol should not be used on cars as it can remove the finish.” rel=”noopener” target=”_blank”>How to Wash an Electric Blanket. Good luck!
Can I put my bamboo mattress topper in the dryer?
Melinda,
It would be better to air dry it. Hanging it over a shower rod and turning on the bathroom fan may be an easy way to do that. You can also towel dry it (roll part of it in a dry towel and squeeze) to help speed the process if needed. See the guide How to Wash Bamboo Knit for more information.