Memory foam mattress toppers are an excellent way to enhance the comfort of your bed, but they require regular cleaning to maintain a hygienic sleep environment. Over time, these toppers can accumulate dead skin cells, sweat, body oils, and other contaminants, potentially becoming a breeding ground for dust mites, bacteria, and allergens.
Regular cleaning is essential not only to prevent allergic reactions but also to extend the lifespan of your mattress topper.
Proper maintenance of your memory foam mattress topper can significantly improve your sleep quality by ensuring a clean and fresh sleeping surface.
How To Clean a Memory Foam Mattress Topper
There are some general guidelines that can be followed to ensure that you clean your foam mattress topper properly without damaging it. Before we delve into the specific cleaning procedures, here is a look at the general guideline:
- Frequency of cleaning foam mattress topper: Aim to clean your mattress topper thoroughly every few months, with light cleaning (such as vacuuming) more frequently, ideally when you change your sheets.
- Follow manufacturer’s instructions: Each foam mattress topper comes with the manufacturer’s guide on how to clean it. It might be a label that may have specific care requirements.
- Do not machine wash memory foam mattress topper: Memory foam has special structure that will be damaged by the spinning and agitation of the washing machine. Once the structure of the memory foam topper is damaged, it cannot be undone and your mattress topper is permanently damaged.
- Handle foam mattress topper with care: Clean the foam mattress topper using soft brushes and the cleaning motion should be gentle to avoid damaging the foam structure.
- Do not use strong chemicals: Foam is a product that reacts with chemicals. Strong chemicals like bleaches will react with the foam causing discoloration of the topper.
- Do not use excess water: Memory form is good at absorbing and retaining water. This water when not properly dried out will create a thriving environment for mold and mildew to grow. Use water and other cleaning solutions sparingly and ensure the foam mattress topper is properly dried before use.
Basic Foam Mattress Topper Cleaning Method
From time to time, you need to perform some basic cleaning of your memory foam mattress topper to keep it in top condition. Here are some basic cleaning methods that are quick and will keep your mattress topper clean. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Remove the foam mattress topper from the bed: Do not clean your mattress topper while its on the bed. Remove it and lay it on a clean flat surface where cleaning will be done. Handle the foam mattress topper with care as you remove it. It can easily tear and get damaged.
Step 2: Vacuum the entire mattress topper: A vacuum cleaner that has soft brush should be used on the entire foam mattress topper. By entire I mean even on the sides and not just top and bottom. The vacuuming should be done in circular motions to remove dust, dead skin cells, hairs and other loose dirt.
If your foam mattress topper has crevices like in the egg crate design, ensure you reach every part of the crevice.
Step 3: Remove odors with baking soda: Baking soda is good for removing odors and absorbing moisture. Sprinkle a thin layer of baking soda on the entire memory foam mattress topper. Let the baking soda do its magic by letting it sit on the mattress topper for at least 8hrs. This should be ideally an overnight stay.
Step 4: Vacuum remove the baking soda: After the eight hours or overnight stay, its time to remove the baking soda you had sprayed on the mattress topper. As previously use circular motion and pay special attention to crevices. Go over the entire surface of the mattress topper more than once to ensure you remove all the baking soda.
This is a basic cleaning method for memory foam mattress topper and can be done on a regular basis or as need might arise to keep the mattress topper clean and free from odors and smell.
Spot Cleaning Stains on Foam Mattress Topper
Stains on memory foam mattress topper can be annoying and you need to act fast to ensure the stains do not damage the mattress topper permanently. Here are the steps you need to take to clean stains from foam mattress topper.
- Promptly dab the fresh stains: Using a dry cloth, place it over the stain to absorb as much liquid as possible. Towel or paper towels can also be used. You should not rub the stain as this will likely spread the stain to areas not affected.
- Use appropriate cleaning agent: Once you have removed the excess liquid, its time to clean the stain. The choice of the cleaning agent depends on the type of the stain but you can generally use a mild detergent that is mixed with water. You can also create a cleaning solution by mixing a few drops of dish washing soap with water. For biological stains like blood, urine and sweat, enzyme cleaner is good while distilled white vinegar is also effective.
- Clean the stain: From the cleaning solution you have made, carefully dip a clean cloth that does not bleach color and gently dab the stain. You should be working from the edges of the stain towards its middle to avoid spreading the stain to other areas. Do not over saturate the cloth with the cleaning solution.
- Rinse the stain area: After you have carefully cleaned the stain, it’s time to rinse the area. Use a separate cloth or towel that is made wet with clean water and remove any cleaning solution foam and residues.
- Drying the stain area: Once you have rinsed the satin, dab it with a clean dry cloth to remove excess moisture. Let the stain air dry after you have removed the excess moisture before using the mattress topper.
If the stains are stubborn or had dried out, you may need to repeat the steps above several times to ensure thorough cleaning. Do not use excess moisture as this can lead to mold and mildew growth in the memory foam mattress topper.
Deep Cleaning Foam Mattress Topper
We have so far looked at basic and spot cleaning of the foam mattress topper. From time to time, you will need to perform some deep cleaning of the memory foam mattress topper and you will need to follow the steps below:
- Remove the mattress topper from the bed and place it in a solid clean and flat service
- You will need to prepare a cleaning solution. This can be done as has been outlined above.
- Vacuum the mattress topper on all sides to remove dust, hair and dead skin cells or any other loose debris.
- Using a spraying bottle, mist the entire mattress topper with the cleaning solution and avoid over saturating the mattress topper with the cleaning solution.
- Dab the mattress topper with a clean dry cloth removing any visible dirt and excess cleaning solution
- Add an even layer of baking soda throughout the mattress topper and let it stay for 8 hours or overnight.
- Vacuum clean the entire surface to remove the baking soda, do this in circular motions and until all baking soda is removed
- Let the mattress topper air dry.
How to Dry Foam Mattress Topper
Mold and mildew thrive and grow in dump surfaces. Foam mattress topper that is not dry is no exception. You will need to ensure the mattress topper is properly dried before using it. Don’t worry on how to dry your memory foam mattress topper. Here is how to do it:
- Air drying memory foam mattress topper: In this method, you will need to place the wet memory foam mattress topper in a well-ventilated area where air flows freely. This can be near open windows where there is enough air movement
- Fan drying foam mattress topper: In this method, electric fans are set up near the mattress topper to increase airflow.
- Mattress topper elevation: In this method, the foam mattress topper is elevated and made to stand on its side to allow air to circulate freely and enhance drying. A drying rack can be used. The mattress topper can also be put on top of chairs that are spread out.
- Sun drying: In this method, the foam mattress topper is put in the sun to dry. Care should be taken as sun can damaged the foam in the topper. Sun exposure should be done early in the morning or late in the evening when the sun is not too hot and should be limited to 1-hour to avoid damaging the topper.
Drying foam mattress topper may take anywhere from a few hours to a few days. You should always rotate and flip the topper as it dries to ensure even drying. Do not use the mattress topper if its not properly dried.
How to Remove Blood Stains on Memory Foam Mattress Topper
Blood stain on the memory foam mattress topper may need special attention to remove. Follow the steps below to ensure it is thoroughly cleaned.
- Always use cold water on blood stain as hot water will set the stain and make it hard to remove
- Dab the stain with a damped cloth. Remove the excess blood first before dabbing with the wet cloth. Dab the stain from out going inside to avoid spreading the blood to other areas.
- Use vinegar to remove the stain. A mild hydrogen peroxide with a concentration of less than 2% may also be used. More concentrated hydrogen peroxide might discolor the foam.
- Rinse the stain with fresh cold water
- Use a dry cloth to remove excess water and then dry the mattress topper as discussed above.
How to Remove Urine and Vomit Stains on Memory Foam Mattress Topper
Urine and vomit stains may occur and maybe an eye sore. Here is how to clean urine and vomit from memory foam mattress topper.
- Dab the stain with a dry cloth to remove as much liquid as is possible.
- Make a solution of water and white vinegar to use on the stain
- Apply the cleaning solution to the stained area by spraying or dabbing with a wet cloth or towel
- Remove excess cleaning solution and then apply baking soda on the stained area. Let the baking soda sit overnight or for at least 8 hours.
- Vacuum clean the stain to remove excess baking soda.
- Dry the foam mattress topper as per the methods discussed above.
How to Remove Tough Odors on Memory Foam Mattress Topper
Stains sometimes leave odors that are hard to remove. This may render the mattress topper unusable. Here are steps you can use to remove the tough odors:
- After cleaning the mattress toper, spread an even layer of baking soda on it. You can use enzyme cleaners to remove biological stains such as urine, sweat and blood.
- Let the baking soda sit overnight or for not less than 8 hours. This will help in neutralizing the odors.
- Vacuum clean the entire mattress topper to remove the baking soda.
If the mattress topper is still smelling, you may need to repeat the steps above several times.
How To Prevent Dirty Memory Foam Mattress Topper
Regular deep cleaning of memory foam mattress may lead to its damage and reduce its lifespan. You need to take good care of your memory foam mattress to ensure that its not subjected to regular deep cleaning therefore stays good for long.
Here are some steps to take care of your memory foam mattress topper:
Using Fitted Sheets
Fitted bedsheets have elastic corners that snugly wrap around the mattress and the mattress topper. These sheets stay in place and provide a barrier between you and the mattress topper that prevents direct contact of sweat, dead skin cells and spills. You can also use sheets that have deep pockets that can comfortably fit in the mattress and the mattress topper.
Using Mattress Protector
Using a waterproof mattress protector is a great way to protect your memory foam mattress topper from spills, stains and allergens. Many mattress protectors out there are breathable and wont affect the level of comfort of your mattress topper.
Regular Vacuum Clean Your Mattress Topper
When you change the bedsheets in your bed, it’s a good idea to vacuum clean the mattress topper to remove dust, debris and allergens. This way, you will keep your mattress topper in good condition and avoid deep cleaning often.
Remove Spills Immediately
When you have spills on the mattress topper, remove and clean the spill spot immediately. This will prevent the spill from drying out and make it harder to clean and remove.
Rotating The Mattress Topper
When your mattress topper is used on one side and one area only, it will result in uneven wear. Body impressions will form in certain areas where the mattress topper will wear out quick.
Airing the Mattress Topper Often
Free circulation of air on your air mattress will ensure that the topper remains dry and it breathes in fresh air. Once in a month remove the beddings and let the mattress topper air. It will remove odors and smell and make the topper comfortable to sleep on.
Control Humidity
Moist environments are good for growth of mold and mildew. Ensuring the level of humidity is controlled in the room is a great way of preventing mold growth. Use dehumidifiers to keep your bedroom dry when you live in humid environment.
Avoid Eating in Bed
When you eat on the bed, the chances of spills occurring are much higher. Food crumbs may also fall on the mattress topper leading to stains that maybe hard to remove. By avoiding eating while on bed, you will go a long way n ensuring that you do not perform deep cleaning of the mattress topper thus help it stay longer in pristine condition.
How To Maintain Memory Foam Mattress Topper
Regular maintenance of your memory foam mattress topper can significantly extend its lifespan and keep it in optimal condition. Here are some key maintenance tips:
- Rotating the topper regularly: Flip and rotate your mattress topper every 3-6 months. This ensures even wear and prevents permanent body impressions.
- Airing out periodically: Every few weeks, remove all bedding and allow your topper to air out for several hours. This helps eliminate trapped moisture and odors.
- Use baking soda to remove odors: For light odors, sprinkle baking soda on the topper. et it sit for several hours or overnight, then vacuum thoroughly.
- Regular light cleaning: Vacuum your mattress topper at least once a month. Spot clean any small stains as soon as they occur.
- Protecting from sunlight: Avoid exposing your mattress topper to direct sunlight for extended periods. UV rays can break down the foam and cause discoloration.
- Proper storage: If you need to store your topper, keep it in a cool, dry place. Use a breathable cover to protect it from dust and debris.
- Weight distribution: Avoid sitting or standing on one spot of the topper for extended periods. This can cause premature wear and damage to the foam.
- Temperature control: Keep your bedroom at a moderate temperature. Extreme heat or cold can affect the structure of the memory foam.
- Regular inspection: Periodically check your topper for signs of wear, tear, or damage. Address any issues promptly to prevent them from worsening.
Conclusion
Keep your memory foam mattress topper clean to ensure better sleep and extend its lifespan. Regular cleaning maintains hygiene and preserves comfort.
Ensure that you vacuum often, address stains quickly, and dry thoroughly after cleaning. If possible, use a mattress protector and rotate the topper to reduce the need for deep cleaning and extend its life.
A clean topper promotes restful, healthy sleep.