Can I Wash a Mattress Cover? Care, Cleaning, and What to Avoid

If you’re asking “Can I wash a mattress cover?”, you’re not alone. Mattress covers (also called protectors or encasements) are designed to be the washable barrier between you and your mattress, but not all covers can be cleaned the same way. This guide answers the most common questions so you can clean yours safely without damaging it.

What Exactly Is a Mattress Cover?

A mattress cover is a removable layer that sits on top of or fully around your mattress. It might be:

  • A simple fabric cover with a zipper
  • A waterproof protector
  • A padded or quilted topper-style cover
  • A full encasement that zips all the way around

The material and design of your cover will determine if and how you can wash it.

Can I Wash a Mattress Cover in the Washing Machine?

In many cases, yes, you can wash a mattress cover, but the care label is the final authority.

Most common fabric or waterproof covers are:

  • Machine washable on a gentle or normal cycle
  • Best washed in cool or warm (not hot) water
  • Cleaned with a mild, liquid detergent

However, some covers have special features (like coatings, waterproof membranes, or quilting) that can be damaged by:

  • High heat
  • Harsh detergents
  • Bleach or fabric softeners

Always check the tag on the cover for symbols or instructions before washing for the first time.

How Often Should I Wash My Mattress Cover?

How often you wash depends on use and personal preference, but a common pattern is:

  • Every 1–2 months for regular use
  • More often if there are spills, stains, or strong odors
  • Less often for rarely used guest beds

Washing too frequently on harsh settings can wear down zippers, seams, and waterproof layers. Gentle, regular care usually gives a good balance between cleanliness and longevity.

What’s the Best Way to Wash a Mattress Cover?

Once you’ve confirmed that “Can I wash a mattress cover?” is a “yes” for your specific product, follow these general steps:

  1. Read the care label
    Look for instructions such as “machine wash cold,” “hand wash only,” or “do not tumble dry.”

  2. Close all zippers
    This helps prevent snags and reduces stress on the zipper.

  3. Use a gentle detergent
    Choose a mild, liquid detergent; avoid bleach unless the label explicitly allows it.

  4. Select a gentle cycle
    Cool or warm water and a gentle or delicate cycle are usually safest.

  5. Avoid overloaded loads
    Give the cover space to move freely so it rinses thoroughly.

Can I Put a Mattress Cover in the Dryer?

Drying is where damage often occurs.

Many mattress covers can be tumble-dried on low heat, but some require:

  • Air-drying only
  • No direct sunlight or high heat (which can weaken elastic or waterproof layers)

If your cover has a waterproof backing or membrane, high heat can cause peeling, cracking, or warping over time. When in doubt:

  • Use low heat or
  • Air-dry over a railing or drying rack, making sure it’s completely dry before putting it back on the mattress

What If My Mattress Cover Says “Spot Clean Only”?

Some quilted or specialty covers may be labeled “spot clean only.” In that case:

  • Do not machine wash unless the manufacturer specifically allows it.
  • Blot spills with a clean cloth and mild soap solution, then dab with water to remove residue.
  • Avoid soaking the cover, as moisture trapped inside thick padding can be slow to dry.

If your question is “Can I wash a mattress cover that is spot-clean only?”, the safest answer is no—stick to gentle surface cleaning.

How Do I Treat Stains and Spills?

For washable covers:

  1. Act quickly
    Blot (don’t rub) liquid with a clean towel to remove as much as possible.

  2. Pre-treat the stain
    Apply a small amount of mild detergent or a gentle stain remover to the area, if allowed by the care label.

  3. Wash as usual
    Follow your normal washing routine after pre-treatment.

Avoid strong chemicals or bleach unless the label clearly states they’re safe.

Can I Wash a Waterproof Mattress Cover?

Many waterproof mattress covers are designed to be machine washable, but the waterproof layer is more sensitive than plain fabric.

To protect it:

  • Use cool or warm water, not hot
  • Avoid high-heat drying
  • Skip fabric softeners, which can build up on waterproof surfaces
  • Do not iron

This helps maintain the cover’s protective barrier for longer.

Is It Okay to Wash a Mattress Cover with Other Laundry?

You can usually wash a mattress cover with other similar items, such as:

  • Bed sheets
  • Pillow protectors
  • Light blankets

To avoid damage:

  • Avoid washing with heavy items like jeans or towels that can stress seams and zippers.
  • Make sure there is enough room in the drum to avoid twisting and stretching.

✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points consumers should understand about “Can I Wash a Mattress Cover”

  • Check the care label first: It tells you if your mattress cover is machine washable, hand-wash only, or spot-clean only.
  • Most basic and waterproof covers are washable, but require gentle settings and mild detergent.
  • Low heat or air-drying is usually safest, especially for covers with waterproof membranes.
  • Avoid bleach, strong chemicals, and high heat unless your label specifically allows them.
  • Spot-clean only covers should not be machine washed, to prevent damage to fabrics and fillings.
  • Wash every 1–2 months in normal use, or more often after spills or noticeable soiling.

Understanding “Can I wash a mattress cover?” comes down to the type of cover you have and how you care for it. With a quick look at the care label and a gentle cleaning routine, you can keep your mattress cover fresh while protecting your mattress for the long term.