How To Clean a Mattress Pad: Simple Steps for a Fresher Bed

If you’re wondering how to clean a mattress pad without damaging it, you’re not alone. Mattress pads catch sweat, spills, and everyday wear, so learning the right way to wash them helps keep your bed fresher and more comfortable.

Below, you’ll find clear answers to common questions about how to clean a mattress pad, from basic washing instructions to stain removal and drying tips.

What Is a Mattress Pad and Why Does Cleaning It Matter?

A mattress pad is a thin layer that sits on top of your mattress, often adding a bit of cushioning and light protection. It’s different from:

  • A mattress protector, which is usually waterproof and focused on blocking liquids
  • A topper, which is thicker and mainly used for comfort

Because mattress pads sit closest to your body under the sheets, they tend to collect:

  • Sweat and body oils
  • Dust and skin cells
  • Occasional spills and stains

Regular cleaning helps reduce odors, maintain a fresher sleep surface, and can keep the pad in better shape over time.

How To Clean a Mattress Pad: Step-by-Step

Before anything else, check the care label on your mattress pad. Instructions can vary based on material (cotton, polyester, down alternative, wool, or memory foam).

General Steps for Most Fabric Mattress Pads

These steps work for many quilted or fiber-filled mattress pads that are labeled as machine washable:

  1. Remove and pre-check

    • Take the pad off the bed.
    • Look for stains, tears, or loose stitching.

  2. Pre-treat stains

    • Gently blot fresh spills with a clean, dry cloth.
    • Apply a small amount of mild liquid detergent or a gentle stain remover to stained areas.
    • Let it sit for about 10–15 minutes before washing.

  3. Machine wash on gentle

    • Use a front-loading or high-efficiency top-loading machine if possible, to avoid rough agitation.
    • Select cold or warm water (hot can shrink or damage some pads).
    • Add a mild detergent. Avoid bleach unless the care label specifically says it’s safe.

  4. Extra rinse if needed

    • If the pad is thick or heavily quilted, an extra rinse cycle can help remove leftover soap.

  5. Gently squeeze, don’t wring

    • When the wash cycle ends, handle the pad carefully. Twisting or wringing can distort filling or seams.

Can You Put a Mattress Pad in the Dryer?

In many cases, yes—but it depends on the label.

Drying a Standard Mattress Pad

  • Tumble dry low: Use low heat to protect fabrics and elastic.
  • Add dryer balls or clean tennis balls: These can help keep the filling from clumping.
  • Check frequently: Pause the cycle to fluff and rearrange the pad so it dries evenly.
  • Ensure it’s fully dry before putting it back on the bed to avoid trapped moisture and odors.

Air-Drying Tips

If the label recommends air-drying—or if you prefer a gentler approach:

  • Lay the pad flat across a clean surface or drying rack.
  • Avoid direct, intense sunlight for long periods, which can fade or weaken some fabrics.
  • Flip and rotate occasionally so it dries evenly.

How Do You Clean a Memory Foam or Non-Washable Mattress Pad?

Some mattress pads, especially memory foam or specialty materials, should not be fully submerged in water or machine washed.

For these:

  1. Vacuum regularly with a handheld or upholstery attachment to remove dust and loose debris.
  2. Spot clean only:
    • Mix a small amount of mild detergent with water.
    • Lightly dab the stain with a clean cloth—avoid soaking the foam.
    • Blot with a dry cloth to remove moisture.
  3. Air-dry completely in a well-ventilated area before putting sheets back on.

Always rely on the manufacturer’s instructions if they’re available.

How Often Should You Clean a Mattress Pad?

How often you wash a mattress pad depends on how it’s used:

  • Every 1–3 months for general use under a fitted sheet
  • More often if there are spills, strong odors, or if you sleep hot and sweat frequently
  • Immediately after noticeable accidents, such as spills or pet incidents

Regular washing paired with weekly sheet changes helps keep the whole sleep surface fresher.

How To Remove Common Stains From a Mattress Pad

Here are general approaches many people use for typical stains. Always spot test an inconspicuous area first.

  • Sweat and body oils:

    • Pre-treat with a small amount of detergent.
    • Wash on gentle as normal.

  • Light food or drink spills:

    • Blot (don’t rub) as much liquid as possible.
    • Pre-treat, then wash following label directions.

  • Tough or set-in stains:

    • Pre-treat twice if needed.
    • Use a gentle cycle and avoid extremely hot water, which can set some stains.

For memory foam pads, stick to light dabbing with a damp cloth and avoid over-wetting.

✅ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points to remember about how to clean a mattress pad

  • Always start with the care label: It tells you whether the pad is machine washable, spot-clean only, or safe for the dryer.
  • Most fabric mattress pads can be washed on a gentle cycle with mild detergent and cold or warm water.
  • Low heat or air-drying helps protect elastic, filling, and stitching.
  • Memory foam pads are usually spot-clean only—avoid soaking or machine washing.
  • Pre-treat stains before washing for better results and to reduce the chance of them setting.
  • Wash every 1–3 months, or more often if spills or strong odors occur.

With a little attention to fabric type and care instructions, understanding how to clean a mattress pad becomes a straightforward part of keeping your sleep environment fresh and comfortable.