Can You Wash a Sleep Number Mattress Cover? Care Guide and FAQs

If you’re wondering “Can You Wash a Sleep Number Mattress Cover?” you’re not alone. Many sleepers want to keep their adjustable airbed clean without damaging the cover, zippers, or internal components. This guide explains what you can typically wash, what to avoid, and how to keep your bed fresh and comfortable.

Can You Wash a Sleep Number Mattress Cover at Home?

In many cases, you can clean parts of a Sleep Number mattress cover, but that does not always mean tossing the entire cover into a washing machine.

Most covers have two layers to think about:

  • The outer fabric layer (what you see and touch)
  • The inner components (foam, padding, and the air system underneath)

For many models:

  • The outer knit or quilted layer may be removable and machine-washable on a gentle cycle.
  • The inner cover, foam, and air chambers are not washable and should not get wet.

Because designs change over time, always:

  • Read the care tag sewn into the cover
  • Follow any temperature, cycle, and drying instructions listed there

How Should You Wash a Sleep Number Mattress Cover Safely?

If your care tag indicates that you can wash a Sleep Number mattress cover (or its outer layer), follow these general steps:

1. Remove the Outer Cover Carefully

  • Unzip or detach the top layer according to the instructions.
  • Avoid pulling too hard on zippers or seams to prevent damage.
  • Keep foam and air components fully covered and away from moisture.

2. Use Gentle Machine Washing

Most removable outer covers do best with:

  • Cold or warm water
  • Mild, non-bleach detergent
  • Gentle or delicate cycle

Avoid:

  • Hot water
  • Bleach or harsh chemicals
  • Fabric softeners that might leave residue

3. Air-Dry Instead of High Heat

Drying is where many covers get damaged. To protect the fabric and any stitching:

  • Air-dry flat or hang to dry when possible.
  • If you must use a dryer, use low heat or air-only, checking the tag first.
  • Make sure the cover is completely dry before putting it back on the mattress to avoid trapped moisture and odors.

What If the Cover Is Not Machine-Washable?

Some Sleep Number-style mattress covers (especially older or more complex designs) are not meant for full machine washing. In that case, focus on spot cleaning.

How to Spot Clean the Mattress Cover

  • Mix a small amount of mild detergent with water.
  • Lightly dampen a clean cloth with the solution.
  • Blot, don’t scrub, over the stained area.
  • Wipe with a second cloth dampened in plain water to remove soap residue.
  • Let it air-dry completely before covering or sleeping on it.

Avoid soaking the cover. Excess water can seep into the foam or air chambers.

How Often Should You Clean a Sleep Number Mattress Cover?

How often you clean depends on:

  • Whether you use a separate mattress protector
  • How much you sweat, spill, or snack in bed
  • Whether you have allergies and want to reduce dust buildup

A simple routine many sleepers follow:

  • Wash bedding and a removable protector weekly or every two weeks
  • Spot clean the mattress cover as needed
  • Do a more thorough cover cleaning a few times a year, if the care tag allows

Using a washable protector on top of the mattress cover can reduce wear and tear on the original cover and make maintenance easier.

Common Questions About Washing a Sleep Number Mattress Cover

Can You Wash a Sleep Number Mattress Cover With Other Laundry?

If the care tag allows machine washing, you can usually wash it with:

  • Lightweight, similar-color items
  • Avoid washing with heavy items like towels, jeans, or bedding with zippers that could snag the cover.

Will Washing the Cover Affect Comfort or Firmness?

When you follow the instructions, washing the outer cover should not change the firmness of the air system or core support. However:

  • High heat or harsh cycles may cause shrinkage or fabric distortion.
  • Damaged zippers or seams can make the cover fit differently.

Gentle care helps keep the comfort and appearance consistent over time.

Can You Use Stain Removers or Disinfecting Sprays?

Use these with caution:

  • Test any product on a small, hidden area first.
  • Avoid soaking the fabric.
  • Do not use products that leave a strong chemical odor or residue if you’re sensitive to smells.

When in doubt, mild detergent and water is usually the safest option.

✅ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points consumers should understand about “Can You Wash a Sleep Number Mattress Cover”

  • Always check the care tag first: Different covers have different washing and drying instructions.
  • Many outer covers are machine-washable, but inner components (foam and air chambers) should not get wet.
  • Gentle settings are best: Cold or warm water, mild detergent, and a delicate cycle help protect the fabric.
  • Air-drying is safer than high heat and helps prevent shrinkage or damage.
  • Spot clean if full washing isn’t recommended: Lightly blot stains instead of soaking the material.
  • A separate mattress protector reduces how often you need to wash the original cover.

Keeping your bed clean doesn’t have to be complicated. When you understand when and how you can wash a Sleep Number mattress cover, you can protect both the comfort of your sleep surface and the longevity of your mattress.