Can you wash a mattress topper? Expert advice on how to sanitize yours without damaging it
Laundry pros share their tips for foam, feather, and cotton toppers


Louise Oliphant
A mattress topper can transform your sleep set-up, making an old mattress feel more comfortable, or altering the firmness of one you can't seem to get along with. But, just like the rest of your bedding, it needs to be kept clean and regularly freshened up.
Bacteria build-up, sweat, natural oils, dust mites, and accidental spills are all reasons your mattress topper might be looking dirty, and you might start to notice some staining, too. So, can you wash a mattress topper?
The short answer is yes, you can, but it's important to do so correctly. If you wash it incorrectly, you risk completely ruining it. Here, we spoke to experts for their laundry tips to keep your topper in tip-top condition, without causing damage.
Can you wash a mattress topper?
Alicia Sokolowski, cleaning and laundry expert, and CEO of AspenClean, advises, 'If your mattress topper is machine-washable, you should definitely wash it to remove sweat, dust mites, and allergens, as it will be designed to handle water and detergent without compromising its structure.'
However, importantly, not all toppers, such as ones made from memory foam or latex, are suitable for machine washing. But, these can be spot cleaned with a gentle detergent such as the all Liquid Laundry Detergent available at Walmart.
Sylvia Emuwa, laundry expert and founder of Dinobi Detergent, explains, 'Foam mattresses are made of a material that is not machine washable, because the foam is not able to withstand machine agitation. It is also difficult to remove the moisture, therefore being highly susceptible to mold and mildew if moisture is trapped,' and risking the appearance of signs of mold on your mattress.
For this reason, to get stains out of a mattress topper and avoid compromising the shape and structure, clean these types of mattress toppers without using your washing machine.
'Use a damp microfiber cloth with mild detergent for spot cleaning, then allow the topper to air dry completely before use,' adds Sokolowski.
All prices correct at time of publication.
This eco-friendly, plant-based detergent is made without chemicals or sulfates, compromised of only four ingredients. Water, plant-based surfactant, vegetable fatty oil and essential oils provide a safe detergent that's suitable for all skin types and washing machines.
Which mattress toppers can go in a washing machine?
When it comes to which mattress toppers can go in the washing machine, laundry expert Sokolowski says, 'Generally, you should only wash mattress toppers that specifically state they are machine washable. These typically include cotton toppers, polyester toppers, and some down or feather toppers.'
Always check the laundry symbols on the care label before getting started and, in the absence of a care label, carefully consider the material. Also, always spot treat stains with a stain remover, such as the Resolve Multi-Fabric Cleaner Liquid and Upholstery Stain Remover available at Amazon, before popping your topper in the machine.
The key here is choosing an appropriate detergent. 'We recommend using a mild, eco-friendly detergent, such as the AspenClean Natural Laundry Detergent Unscented available at Amazon, for a safe and hypoallergenic clean,' continues Sokolowski. 'Avoid bleach or harsh chemicals, which can weaken fibers and leave residue that may irritate your skin.'
You will, of course, also need to check whether your mattress topper is actually able to fit in your washing machine drum, to avoid any expensive or irreparable damage caused by washing machine mistakes. Most king-size, or larger toppers will be too big, and can therefore be immediately ruled out of washing by machine, and should be spot cleaned by hand instead.
With 66 loads per bottle, this liquid laundry detergent is cruelty free and hypoallergenic, with a fresh scent to mimic the benefits of air-drying laundry.
FAQs
Can you put a mattress topper in the dryer?
Putting a mattress topper in the dryer is a quick, easy solution – allowing you to wash, dry, and put your mattress topper back on your bed before bedtime. But, whether you can will depend on its material composition. Excessive heat will damage foam toppers, and we'd always suggest double-checking the care label when it comes to feather-filled, down, and polyester types, too. You can, however, put a mattress protector in the dryer.
How often should you wash a mattress topper?
The good news is you don't have to clean your mattress topper as often as you should wash your bed sheets. You should spot-clean your topper as frequently as your mattress, and, as a general rule, wash it once every three months. If you're someone who overheats at night, or has pets (or kids) in bed, you may want to clean it more often. And ideally, accidental spills should be treated immediately.
Need some specific advice on how to clean a memory foam mattress topper? Our expert-led guide details how to do so in just five simple steps.
Sign up to the Homes & Gardens newsletter
Design expertise in your inbox – from inspiring decorating ideas and beautiful celebrity homes to practical gardening advice and shopping round-ups.

Ottilie joined Homes & Gardens last year, after finishing a Master's in Magazine Journalism at City, University of London. With previous contributions in Livingetc and Motorsport Magazine, she produces content for the Solved section on the website, focusing on clever tips and tricks to keep your home beautiful, organized and clean. She also has a Master's degree in English Literature and History of Art from the University of Edinburgh, where she developed a love for inspiring interiors and architecture.
- Louise OliphantEcommerce Editor
You must confirm your public display name before commenting
Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.
-
Martha Stewart's outdoor zoning method is the secret to seamless hosting for summer 2025 – it's changed how I arrange furniture on my patio
11 years ago, Martha shared an intelligent way to organize your outdoor space for hosting season – it's just as smart over a decade later
By Megan Slack
-
I've just discovered blue laundry detergent is toxic to humans and the environment – this is the safer, plant-based alternative laundry experts recommend
I’ve switched to Ecover dye-free liquid detergent to knock unnecessary toxins out of my laundry cycle for good
By Punteha van Terheyden
-
This is one of the worst things you can do to your vacuum cleaner – experts warn it will slash its lifespan by years and damage the motor
Overfilling your vacuum can cause real, long-term damage and is best avoided
By Dan Fauzi
-
This is the single best upright vacuum we've ever tested – and it's on offer with $130 off at Shark for a limited time only
You won't want to miss this one
By Dan Fauzi
-
I'm an expert vacuum tester, and no, you really don't need a mattress vacuum – here's what to use instead
Before investing in a new gadget, the tried-and-true methods still work
By Dan Fauzi
-
Should you dry your clothes outside if you have hayfever? Allergy specialists warn sufferers to steer clear of this 'major trigger'
Doing so can trigger asthma, coughing, itchy eyes and more
By Sophie Warren-Smith
-
'It's not something I'm willing to budge on' – shoes on vs. shoes off, what type of household are you?
Our professional cleaners are all in agreement on this one, but would you consider a switch?
By Ottilie Blackhall
-
Bissell Hard Floor Expert canister vacuum review – if your home has smooth floors, this is all you need
As the name suggests, this canister vacuum works wonders on hard floors, but even a low-pile rug is too much of a challenge
By Camryn Rabideau
-
I tried this one easy dishwasher trick and made the annoying need for manual drying a thing of the past
If you hate those little pools of water left on your cups and crockery, this towel trick is for you
By Punteha van Terheyden
-
5 freezer cleaning mistakes you must avoid – or risk compromising your food quality and shortening the lifespan of your appliance
Avoid these blunders for a safer kitchen
By Seraphina Di Mizzurati