How To Clean Pillow Top Mattress Pad: Simple Steps and FAQs

If you’re searching for How To Clean Pillow Top Mattress Pad, you’re likely trying to freshen up a padded, plush topper without flattening it, shrinking it, or damaging the filling. This guide walks through safe cleaning methods, common questions, and what to avoid so your pillow top pad stays comfortable and supportive.

What Is a Pillow Top Mattress Pad, and Why Cleaning Matters

A pillow top mattress pad is a thick, cushioned layer that adds softness and extra comfort on top of your mattress. It often includes quilted sections filled with fiber or foam, and it usually has a fabric cover.

Keeping it clean matters because:

  • It collects sweat, body oils, dust, and spills over time
  • Odors can build up if it’s not aired out and cleaned
  • Dirt and moisture can reduce its loft and comfort

Understanding how to clean a pillow top mattress pad correctly helps maintain its feel and extend its usable life.

Can You Machine Wash a Pillow Top Mattress Pad?

In many cases, yes—but not always. The care label is your rulebook.

Before anything else, check the tag on your pad for:

  • Machine wash instructions (temperature, cycle)
  • Drying instructions (tumble dry, air dry, “no heat”)
  • Any notes like “spot clean only” or “dry clean only”

If the label allows machine washing:

  1. Use a large-capacity washer
    A cramped machine can twist or stress the filling. If your home washer is small, consider a larger machine in a shared laundry room or similar space.

  2. Select a gentle cycle
    Choose cold or warm water (as the label suggests) and a mild liquid detergent. Avoid bleach or harsh chemicals—these can weaken fabric and stitching.

  3. Balance the load
    If the pad is light, add a couple of towels to help distribute weight and reduce strain on the seams.

  4. Run an extra rinse (optional)
    If the pad is thick or fluffy, an extra rinse helps remove leftover detergent that might leave residue or stiffness.

How To Clean Pillow Top Mattress Pad by Hand

If the label says “spot clean only” or you’re unsure, hand cleaning is safer.

  1. Vacuum first
    Use a handheld vacuum or upholstery attachment to remove crumbs, dust, and loose debris from the surface.

  2. Mix a gentle cleaning solution
    In a bowl or bucket, combine lukewarm water with a small amount of mild detergent. Stir to create light suds.

  3. Spot clean stains

    • Dip a clean cloth or soft sponge into the soapy water
    • Gently blot (don’t scrub hard) the stained area
    • Work from the outside of the stain inward to avoid spreading
    • Use a second cloth with plain water to blot out soap

  4. Deodorize lightly
    For lingering smells, you can sprinkle a thin layer of baking soda over the dry surface, let it sit for a few hours, then vacuum it off. This is a surface odor refresher, not a deep clean.

  5. Allow to air dry completely
    Lay the pad flat on a clean, ventilated surface. Flip it occasionally so both sides dry evenly.

How Should You Dry a Pillow Top Mattress Pad?

Drying is where many pads are accidentally damaged or shrunk.

  • If tumble drying is allowed:

    • Use low heat or air-dry setting
    • Add a couple of clean tennis balls (or dryer-safe balls) in socks to help fluff the filling
    • Pause and reposition the pad halfway through to help it dry evenly

  • If the label says no heat or air dry only:

    • Lay the pad flat on a drying rack or clean surface
    • Flip and gently shake it every few hours
    • Ensure that the interior is completely dry before putting it back on the bed to avoid lingering moisture and odors

How Often Should You Clean a Pillow Top Mattress Pad?

How often you need to clean it depends on use and environment, but many people find this rhythm helpful:

  • Lightly used pad: Deep clean about every 3–6 months
  • Heavier use (warm sleepers, shared beds, kids, or pets): Clean every 1–3 months or as needed
  • Between washes:
    • Vacuum the surface during regular sheet changes
    • Air it out occasionally by removing bedding and letting it breathe

Protecting the pad with a removable, washable mattress protector can help reduce how often you need to wash the pillow top pad itself.

What About Tough Stains Like Sweat, Spills, or Urine?

Sweat and general discoloration

  • Spot clean with a mild detergent solution
  • For light discoloration, a small amount of color-safe, non-chlorine cleaner (if allowed by the label) may help
  • Always test on a small, hidden area first

Food or drink spills

  • Act quickly: Blot (don’t rub) with a clean, absorbent cloth
  • Follow with gentle spot cleaning using mild detergent and water
  • Avoid soaking the pad; excessive water can get trapped inside

Urine or strong odors

  • Blot up as much as possible with paper towels or cloths
  • Spot clean thoroughly with mild detergent and water
  • Allow extra time to air dry fully
  • A light baking soda sprinkle after drying may help reduce residual odor

If strong odors or stains remain after thorough cleaning, some people choose to replace the pad rather than risk over-saturating or damaging it with repeated attempts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When figuring out how to clean a pillow top mattress pad, avoid:

  • Ignoring the care label or assuming it can be washed like a regular blanket
  • Using high heat in the dryer, which can shrink or damage fillings and fabrics
  • Over-soaking the pad, especially if it has dense foam or thick quilting
  • Using strong chemicals or bleach that may break down the fabric
  • Putting it back on the bed while even slightly damp

✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points about How To Clean Pillow Top Mattress Pad

  • Always check the care label first to see if it’s machine washable, spot clean only, or dry clean only.
  • Use gentle methods: mild detergent, cool or warm water, and a delicate wash or hand-cleaning.
  • Avoid high heat when drying; choose low heat or air dry and make sure the pad is completely dry inside.
  • Spot clean stains promptly to prevent set-in marks and persistent odors.
  • Vacuum and air out regularly between deep cleans to keep the pad fresher for longer.

Understanding how to clean a pillow top mattress pad safely helps preserve its loft, softness, and overall comfort. With careful washing, thorough drying, and regular light maintenance, your pad can stay a comfortable and clean part of your sleep setup for a long time.