Mattress Protector Care Guide: How to Wash and Maintain It

A waterproof mattress protector is one of the most practical investments for your bed. But if you wash it incorrectly, you can damage the waterproof membrane and reduce its effectiveness. This guide covers exactly how to wash, dry, and maintain your bed protector so it lasts for years.

How Often Should You Wash Your Mattress Protector?

Wash your mattress protector every two to four weeks under normal use. If someone in your household is ill, has incontinence, or if the protector is used on a child's bed, wash it more frequently, as often as weekly.

Regular washing removes sweat, body oils, dead skin cells, and dust mites that accumulate over time. This keeps the protector hygienic and extends the life of your mattress.

Step-by-Step: How to Wash a Mattress Protector

Step 1: Check the Label

Always read the care label before washing. Most quality mattress protectors, including NUUN's waterproof protectors, are machine washable at 30 degrees on a gentle cycle.

Step 2: Wash Separately or with Light Items

Wash the mattress protector separately or with other light bedding items. Do not wash it with heavy jeans, towels, or items that have zips or hooks that could damage the surface.

Step 3: Use Mild Detergent

Use a standard mild laundry detergent. Do not use fabric softener. Fabric softener coats the fibres of the terry surface and reduces absorbency over time. It can also affect the breathability of the waterproof membrane.

Step 4: Wash at 30 Degrees, Gentle Cycle

Use a cool or warm wash at 30 degrees on the gentle or delicate cycle. High temperature washing above 40 degrees can damage the polyurethane membrane and cause it to delaminate or crack over time. This is the most common reason waterproof protectors stop working after a few months.

Step 5: Rinse Thoroughly

Make sure your machine completes a full rinse cycle. Detergent residue left in the protector can irritate skin and reduce the performance of the waterproof layer.

How to Dry a Mattress Protector

Drying correctly is just as important as washing correctly.

Air Drying (Recommended)

Hang the mattress protector in a well-ventilated area or outdoors in the shade. Do not dry in direct strong sunlight for extended periods, as UV exposure can degrade the fabric over time. Air drying is always the safest method for preserving the waterproof membrane.

Tumble Drying (Low Heat Only)

If you use a tumble dryer, use the lowest heat setting only. High heat will melt or crack the PU membrane. Medium or high heat settings should never be used on a waterproof mattress protector.

Do Not Iron

Never iron a waterproof mattress protector, especially on the waterproof side. The heat from an iron will permanently damage the membrane.

How to Remove Stains from a Mattress Protector

For fresh spills, blot the stain immediately with a clean cloth. Do not rub, as this spreads the stain and pushes it deeper into the fabric.

For set-in stains, apply a small amount of mild liquid detergent directly to the stain before washing. Gently work it into the fabric with your fingers and let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes before putting it in the machine.

For urine stains, a solution of white vinegar and water (one part vinegar, one part water) applied to the stain before washing is effective. Vinegar also neutralizes odour.

How to Know If Your Mattress Protector Has Lost Its Waterproofing

Pour a small amount of water onto the surface of the protector. If it beads up and rolls off, the waterproofing is intact. If it absorbs into the fabric, the membrane may be damaged.

This can happen from washing at too high a temperature, using the wrong type of detergent repeatedly, or simply from age and heavy use. At this point, the protector should be replaced.

NUUN's Waterproof Mattress Protectors are designed to withstand regular washing when cared for correctly. Follow these guidelines and your protector will maintain its performance for years.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wash a waterproof mattress protector in a washing machine?

Yes. Wash on a gentle cycle at 30 degrees with mild detergent. Avoid fabric softener and high temperature settings.

Why has my mattress protector stopped being waterproof?

The most likely cause is washing at too high a temperature or using a tumble dryer on a high heat setting. Both can damage the PU membrane. Always wash at 30 degrees and dry on low heat or air dry.

How do I get a urine smell out of a mattress protector?

Wash immediately after soiling. Add half a cup of white vinegar to the wash cycle along with your regular detergent. This neutralizes the odour effectively.

Can I put a mattress protector in the dryer?

Yes, on low heat only. High heat will damage the waterproof membrane. Air drying is always the safer option.

How long does a waterproof mattress protector last?

With proper care, a quality mattress protector should last two to three years with regular use. Replace it when the waterproofing begins to fail or when the surface fabric shows significant wear.