Can you wash memory foam? Experts share tips for memory foam maintenance

Memory foam mattresses, pillows, and toppers are popular for a reason. They are super cozy and mold to your body, helping you get the best night's sleep possible.

However, with this dense, sink-in feeling comes a material that is prone to absorbing odors, and liquids, and holding stains. This begs the question, can you wash memory foam without damaging it?

While cleaning your memory foam mattress and washing memory foam pillows is not impossible, it is not as simple as throwing them in the washing machine or running them over with the best steam cleaner. With that in mind, we asked professionals for their best cleaning tips to refresh our bedding without risk of damage.

Can you wash memory foam? 

Even the best memory foam mattresses, best pillows, and best mattress toppers need regular cleaning if you want to maintain good sleep hygiene.

'Memory foam is the one mattress type you need to be especially careful when cleaning. If you get the material too wet, it will take a very long time to dry, and you can increase the chances of developing mold or mildew,' warns Christina Heiser, content director at Saatva, the Smarter Luxury Sleep Company.

Generally speaking, there are three main precautions you need to take when washing memory foam mattress toppers or mattresses to keep it in top condition.

3 rules to follow when washing memory foam

Whether you're removing stains from your mattress topper or doing your annual mattress clean, using the correct methods, products, and processes is key to keeping your bedding in its best condition.

1. Only wash the cover

'Never submerge memory foam in water! Trust me, this is from experience,' shares Ross Pascale, cleaning expert and director at Neeet House Cleaning. 'While some memory foam mattress covers can be washed, the foam itself usually can't. The washing machine's agitation and harsh chemicals can damage the foam's structure and support.'

The best way to keep your pillows, mattress, and toppers clean is to remove any loose covers and wash those according to the laundry symbols on the care label, he suggests.

2. Spot-clean only with natural detergent

If the mattress doesn't have a cover, or is stained or smells beneath the cover, then you can try some spot cleaning tips.

'Start by using a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove any loose dirt, dust, and debris from the surface of the mattress. This helps to eliminate surface particles before proceeding with further cleaning,' begins cleaning expert Trish Duarte, home cleaning professional and owner of MaidPro in Murrieta, California.

'If there are any stains on the mattress, spot clean them using a mix of one part detergent and two parts water. Use a microfiber cloth or sponge to gently dab the stained area. Avoid rubbing or scrubbing vigorously, as this can damage the foam. After spot cleaning, blot the area with a clean, damp cloth to remove any soap residue and then allow it to air dry.'

If you are trying to get rid of musty smells in a bedroom, you can also clean with baking soda. Sprinkle the baking soda evenly across the dry mattress and allow it to sit for at least 30 minutes and up to 24 hours. Then, brush the powder away and vacuum up any lingering debris. The baking soda will absorb odors and leave your mattress smelling fresh. Finish with a light linen spray for the ultimate night's sleep.

3. Air dry only

There are several benefits to air drying laundry, but it is essential when it comes to memory foam, continues Ross Pascale, cleaning expert. The heat and agitation from a dryer will ruin the memory foam's texture. Instead, for smaller items such as pillows and toppers, it is better to press the excess moisture out and then leave it in a sunny, well-ventilated spot to dry naturally. You can also use the best dehumidifier to speed the process up and avoid the risk of mold or musty odors.

For larger items such as mattresses, Ross suggests; 'propping your mattress upright against a wall or, if the weather's nice, taking it outside to a shady spot. Getting some fresh air helps get rid of moisture and stops mold from growing, making your sleep space nice and healthy.'

Ensure the memory foam is completely dry before using it again or redressing with your best bed sheets.

FAQs

Is memory foam ruined if it gets wet?

Short answer: yes. You should always avoid getting your mattress wet. Moisture in memory foam will weaken its viscosity. The adhesive holding the layers of foam together will break down, ruining its sink-in, cushioned quality. Excess water will also speed up the deterioration of memory foam. Trapped liquids will also lead to mold and mildew build-up.

Of course, the occasional spill can't be helped, but it is important to treat any liquid spills as quickly as possible with a clean dry cloth and a swift blotting motion.

How long does memory foam take to dry?

Memory foam dries slowly. Depending on its density and how wet your memory foam gets, it can take quite a while to dry – up to a few days in fact. It's best to avoid getting your memory foam mattress, pillow, or topper wet at all, and you should ensure your bedding is completely dry before putting it back on your bed or storing away.

'To keep your memory foam mattress clean and fresh, it’s important to maintain good hygiene practices,' suggests Trish Duarte, cleaning expert. 'Wash bed sheets every one to two weeks to prevent buildup of body oils and sweat and rotate the mattress every few months to distribute the wear evenly. '