How To Wash Sleep Number Mattress Cover: Simple, Safe Steps for a Cleaner Bed

If you’re searching for “How To Wash Sleep Number Mattress Cover,” you’re likely worried about doing it wrong—shrinking the cover, damaging the zipper, or affecting the mattress underneath. This guide walks you through what you can safely do, what to avoid, and how to keep your sleep surface fresh without risking damage.

What Is the Mattress Cover and Why Does Washing It Matter?

The outer cover on an adjustable air mattress system is the fabric layer that zips around the mattress core. It protects the internal components and affects how soft, cool, or cushioned the bed feels.

Keeping it clean can help with:

  • Basic hygiene (sweat, body oils, dust)
  • Odor control
  • Maintaining comfort, since buildup can make fabric feel rough or less breathable

However, unlike a simple fabric topper, this cover is part of a more complex mattress system. That’s why learning How To Wash Sleep Number Mattress Cover correctly is important before you toss anything in the washer.

Can You Machine Wash a Sleep Number Mattress Cover?

Check the label first

The care tag on the mattress cover is your most reliable guide. Different models can have different fabric blends and care instructions. Some outer covers are spot-clean only, while others may allow gentle washing of certain removable fabric layers.

As a general rule:

  • Do not assume the entire zippered encasement is machine washable.
  • Do not soak the cover while it’s still on the mattress.
  • Do not use harsh chemicals, bleach, or high heat.

If the label says “spot clean only,” treat stains in specific areas instead of washing the entire cover.

How To Wash Sleep Number Mattress Cover (Safest General Approach)

If your specific cover (or a removable portion of it, such as a top panel) is labeled as machine washable, these steps are typically the safest approach:

  1. Unplug and remove all bedding

    • Remove sheets, protectors, pads, and any toppers.
    • Make sure any related electronics or controls are safely out of the way.

  2. Remove the washable part of the cover

    • Unzip carefully and lift off only the piece the label says is washable.
    • Keep the internal layers protected and dry.

  3. Pre-treat spots

    • Use a mild detergent or gentle stain remover on visible stains.
    • Blot, don’t scrub vigorously, to avoid roughening the fabric.

  4. Use a gentle washing cycle

    • Cold or warm water (never hot)
    • Mild liquid detergent
    • Gentle or delicate cycle
    • No bleach, no fabric softeners

  5. Dry with low or no heat

    • Air dry flat if possible, or tumble dry on low heat if allowed on the tag.
    • Make sure the cover is completely dry before putting it back on to avoid trapped moisture.

  6. Reassemble carefully

    • Align the cover so it’s not twisted.
    • Zip slowly to avoid stressing the zipper.

If your care label does not specifically allow machine washing, stick to spot cleaning only.

How Do You Spot Clean a Sleep Number Mattress Cover?

When the label recommends spot cleaning, this is usually the safest method:

  1. Mix a gentle cleaning solution

    • A small amount of mild detergent in cool or lukewarm water.

  2. Test a hidden area first

    • Check for discoloration or fabric changes.

  3. Blot the stain

    • Use a clean white cloth or sponge.
    • Dab the solution onto the stain; avoid soaking the fabric.

  4. Rinse by blotting with clean water

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

  5. Blot dry and air out

    • Press with a dry towel and let it air dry completely before remaking the bed.

This method helps control how much moisture reaches the internal layers, which is crucial for adjustable air mattresses with internal components.

How Often Should You Clean the Mattress Cover?

For most sleepers, a full wash or thorough spot clean of the outer cover is only necessary occasionally, such as:

  • After spills or visible stains
  • When you notice persistent odors
  • Every so often as part of deeper mattress maintenance

For everyday cleanliness, it’s usually easier to:

  • Use a removable, washable mattress protector over the cover
  • Wash sheets and protector regularly

This reduces the need to handle the main mattress cover frequently, which can help preserve its shape and stitching.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning the Cover

To protect your mattress and its cover:

  • Avoid soaking the cover while it’s still on the bed
  • Avoid high heat in the washer or dryer, which can shrink or warp fabrics
  • Avoid bleach or strong chemical cleaners
  • Avoid scrubbing aggressively, which can damage fibers and seams
  • Avoid reassembling while damp, since trapped moisture can cause odor or damage over time

A gentle approach usually keeps both comfort and appearance intact for longer.

Does Cleaning the Cover Affect the Feel of the Mattress?

Cleaning the cover the right way can refresh the feel of the surface without changing how the mattress supports you. Over-wetting, excessive heat, or harsh chemicals, on the other hand, can:

  • Make fabrics feel rougher
  • Slightly alter the quilting or loft
  • Affect zippers or stitching

Following the labeled instructions and the general guidelines above helps maintain both comfort and durability.

✅ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points consumers should understand about How To Wash Sleep Number Mattress Cover:

  • Always read the care tag first – instructions can vary between models.
  • Not every cover is fully machine washable; many are spot-clean only.
  • If machine washing is allowed, use cold or warm water, mild detergent, and a gentle cycle.
  • Never use bleach or high heat, and avoid soaking the internal mattress components.
  • Air drying or low-heat drying is safest; always ensure the cover is completely dry.
  • For spot cleaning, blot gently with a mild soap solution and avoid over-wetting.
  • A washable mattress protector can reduce how often you need to clean the main cover.
  • Proper care helps keep the mattress surface fresh, comfortable, and in good condition over time.

Handled patiently and gently, washing or spot-cleaning your mattress cover can be straightforward and safe, giving you a cleaner sleep surface without risking damage to your mattress.