Wash a waterproof bed cover separately on a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent, then air-dry or tumble dry on low.
Keeping a waterproof bed cover clean protects both your mattress and your investment. The good news is that caring for one is simple once you know the rules: these covers are machine-washable, but the waterproof membrane reacts badly to heat and harsh chemicals. A few correct cycles will keep the cover waterproof and comfortable for years.
If you’re evaluating options for your home, our tested roundup of the best waterproof bed covers covers the top-rated picks and what makes each one worth buying.
Washing Your Waterproof Bed Cover: Step-By-Step
Most waterproof mattress protectors and bed covers are machine-washable, and the process is the same for most brands with PU or TPU membranes.
- Strip the bed and remove the cover. Shake it out to remove dust, hair, and debris before washing.
- Wash the cover on its own. Avoid washing it with heavy blankets or thick towels; the extra friction and mechanical stress can damage the membrane.
- Set the machine to cold or cool water. Globaltex USA recommends a maximum of 30°C (86°F) on a gentle or delicate program. Avocado Green Mattress also advises a gentle/delicate or low setting with cold water.
- Add a mild detergent. Use a standard amount—too much leaves residue on the membrane and reduces breathability. Skip bleach and strong chemical detergents entirely.
- Run an extra rinse cycle. If your machine offers it, an extra rinse helps remove all detergent residue.
How To Dry a Waterproof Bed Cover
Air-drying is the best practice, but you can machine-dry on low heat if the care label allows it.
Hang the cover over a clothesline, a drying rack, or the edge of a bathtub, away from direct heat sources like radiators or direct sunlight. If you must use a dryer, set it to low heat or delicate and remove the cover promptly once dry. Tumble drying is ideally avoided according to Globaltex USA, and Tom’s Guide recommends low heat or line drying.
Never iron a waterproof bed cover. High heat from an iron can melt or crack the waterproof layer.
When To Hand-Wash Instead
If the care label on your specific cover disallows machine washing, hand-washing is a perfectly good alternative.
Fill a tub or large sink with lukewarm or cool water, add a small amount of mild detergent, and gently swish the cover through the water. Rinse thoroughly until no soap remains, then squeeze out excess water gently—do not wring or twist. Dry fully before putting the cover back on the mattress; a damp cover can trap moisture against the mattress and create odors.
FAQs
FAQs
Can you use bleach or fabric softener on a waterproof bed cover?
No. Bleach, fabric softener, and strong chemical detergents can damage the waterproof membrane and reduce its effectiveness. Fabric softener also leaves a coating that can block the cover’s breathability. Stick to mild detergent and cold water for the best results.
What temperature should you wash a waterproof mattress protector at?
Cold water is the safest choice. Globaltex USA advises a maximum wash temperature of 30°C (86°F), and Tom’s Guide also suggests cool water around 30 degrees. Hot water can degrade the waterproof layer and cause it to crack or peel over time.
Can you put a waterproof mattress protector in the dryer?
Yes, but only on the lowest heat setting if the care label allows it. Air-drying is preferred by most manufacturers, including Globaltex USA and Avocado Green Mattress. If you use a dryer, remove the cover promptly once dry to prevent heat damage to the membrane.
References & Sources
- Globaltex USA. “Care Guide for Timeless Luxury Mattress Protectors.” Details maximum wash temperature and drying recommendations.
- Tom’s Guide. “How to Wash and Dry a Waterproof Mattress Protector—and What to Avoid.” Provides practical washing and drying steps and lists what not to do.
- Avocado Green Mattress. “How Should I Clean My Waterproof Mattress Protector?” Explains gentle-cycle washing, cold water, and low-heat drying guidance.
