Can I Wash My Tempur Pedic Mattress Cover? A Practical FAQ Guide

If you’re wondering “Can I wash my Tempur Pedic mattress cover?”, you’re not alone. Mattress covers can collect sweat, spills, and everyday dust, and it’s natural to want to clean them. The answer depends on which type of cover you have and how it’s constructed.

Below, you’ll find clear, brand-neutral guidance on how to tell if your mattress cover is washable, how to clean it safely, and what to avoid so you don’t damage the foam underneath.

Is My Tempur-Style Mattress Cover Actually Washable?

In many memory-foam-style mattresses, the outer cover may be removable and washable, while inner layers or encasements are not meant to be washed.

Because designs change over time, the safest first step is to check:

  • The care label sewn into the cover
  • Any owner’s booklet that came with your mattress

You might find instructions such as:

  • “Machine wash cold, gentle cycle”
  • “Spot clean only”
  • “Do not wash. Do not remove cover.”

If the care tag clearly says “do not wash” or “do not remove”, then the answer to “Can I wash my Tempur Pedic mattress cover?” is essentially no for that specific model. In those cases, use surface cleaning only.

Why Does It Matter How I Clean the Cover?

The foam inside these mattresses is usually a sensitive, high-density material. Excess moisture, harsh chemicals, or heat can:

  • Affect the feel of the mattress
  • Lead to clumping or breakdown of foam over time
  • Cause lingering odors if moisture penetrates and doesn’t fully dry

Proper cleaning of the cover helps protect:

  • The comfort and support of the mattress
  • The appearance of the fabric
  • The longevity of the materials inside

This is why manufacturers often give specific washing instructions and sometimes advise against washing certain covers at all.

How Do I Know If I Can Machine Wash the Cover?

1. Check the Care Tag First

Look for wording like:

  • “Machine wash, cold”
  • “Gentle cycle only”
  • “Tumble dry low”
  • “Line dry”

If you see these, your cover is likely designed for washing, with some precautions. If you see any warning against washing or removing, follow that strictly.

2. Consider How the Cover Is Built

Some covers are simple fabric shells with a zipper. Others are quilted, multi-layered, or have foam stitched into them. In general:

  • Simple, single-layer fabric covers are more likely to be washable.
  • Covers with foam attached, heavy quilting, or zippers that don’t fully open are more likely to be spot-clean-only.

How Should I Wash a Removable Mattress Cover Safely?

If the tag confirms that you can wash your Tempur-style mattress cover, these general guidelines are common:

  1. Remove the cover carefully

    • Unzip fully and lift it off without pulling or tearing seams.
    • Avoid dragging the foam across rough surfaces.

  2. Use a gentle wash setting

    • Cold or lukewarm water
    • Mild, liquid detergent
    • No bleach and generally no fabric softeners, as these can be harsh on fibers.

  3. Wash it on its own

    • Avoid heavy items (like towels or jeans) that may stress the fabric.

  4. Air dry when possible

    • Lay flat or hang to dry in a well-ventilated area.
    • If the tag allows tumble drying, use low heat only. High heat can shrink or damage the fabric and zippers.

  5. Make sure it’s completely dry

    • Do not put the cover back on the mattress while damp.
    • Trapped moisture can cause odor or affect the foam.

What If My Mattress Cover Is Not Washable?

If the tag says “spot clean only” or the cover must not be removed, you still have options to keep it fresh.

Spot-Cleaning Steps

  1. Blot spills quickly

    • Use a clean, dry cloth to absorb as much liquid as possible.

  2. Use a mild cleaning solution

    • Mix a small amount of gentle detergent with cool water.
    • Lightly dampen a cloth (don’t soak it) and dab the area. Avoid rubbing hard.

  3. Blot with clean water

    • Use another cloth with plain water to remove detergent residue.

  4. Let it dry thoroughly

    • Allow plenty of air circulation.
    • Avoid using a lot of water; the goal is to prevent moisture from reaching the foam core.

For everyday freshness, some people also use:

  • Vacuuming the dry surface on a low setting
  • Allowing the mattress to air out with bedding removed for a few hours

Should I Use a Separate Mattress Protector?

Even if your answer to “Can I wash my Tempur Pedic mattress cover?” is yes, many sleepers still use a removable mattress protector on top of the original cover. This is often:

  • Easier to wash regularly
  • Useful for managing spills, sweat, or pet-related messes
  • Helpful for reducing the need to deep-clean the original cover

A protector can act as the first line of defense, so the built-in cover rarely needs more than light care.

⚖️ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points about “Can I Wash My Tempur Pedic Mattress Cover”:

  • Always read the care label first
  • Washable cover?
    • Use cold or lukewarm water
    • Gentle cycle, mild detergent
    • Air dry or low heat if the tag allows
  • Non-washable cover?
    • Do not remove the cover
    • Spot clean only with minimal moisture
    • Let it dry completely
  • Protect the foam by avoiding soaking, harsh chemicals, and high heat
  • Consider a separate, washable protector to keep cleaning simple and reduce wear on the original cover

By following the care instructions specific to your mattress and keeping moisture and heat in check, you can clean your cover safely and maintain a comfortable sleep surface over time.