A heated mattress protector adds warmth and cloud-like softness to your bed.
But what is the best way to clean it, if you’ve spilled your evening cuppa? Here’s how to safely wash an electric mattress pad without taking away its bounce or shape.
Washing a heated mattress pad safely
First, here are a few important tips to avoid damaging yourself or your mattress pad.
- Detach any controls, power cords, and plugs before you wash it
- Carefully check your mattress pad for any exposed or damaged wires
- Do not dry-clean your mattress pad, as chemicals may damage wires
- Avoid using strong chemicals like bleach or harsh cleaning sprays
- Never iron your electric mattress pad, or put it through a wringer
Putting something with electrical wires in the washing machine may feel a little strange, but many heated mattress toppers are designed to be safely and easily washed!
Before washing anything with electrical parts, carefully read the product instructions.
How to wash a heated mattress pad in a washing machine
- Turn off and unplug the mattress protector, and disconnect the power cord and controller. Measure the mattress topper so you can stretch it back to size.
- Ensure your washing machine is large enough, otherwise visit a laundrette.
- Load the blanket into the washing machine, taking care it does not rest on the rubber surrounding the opening. We suggest either a bath towel or sheet be loaded in front of the blanket, to help prevent the blanket from falling forward.
- Presoak the blanket for 15 minutes in cold water and mild soap, followed by a short, delicate wash. The blanket should ideally be washed at a max temperature of 30 degrees on the Wool programme, do not use the extra spin cycle.
Alternatively, here’s how to handwash it
If you wish to handwash the pad, use a mild washing powder in lukewarm water and soak for 15 minutes. After soaking, gently wash the topper and rinse thoroughly with clean water. Allow water to drain from the pad by gently squeezing, but do not wring.
Note: This is how Dreamland heated mattress pads can be washed, but remember to read manufacturer instructions before washing to avoid a damaged or misshapen pad.
How to dry a heated mattress pad in a tumble dryer
To keep your heated mattress pad fresh and mildew-free after washing, you must dry it. Ensure the mattress topper is completely dry, before plugging it back in and using.
- Ensure your tumble dryer has room, otherwise dry your pad on the line.
- If your blanket will fit your tumbler dryer, use the low setting. Preheat the dryer for a couple of minutes, then dry the heated mattress protector on a low setting.
- Hold the blanket up to the light to inspect the wires to see if any loops have been formed, if so, keep stretching the blanket till they have straightened.
Ideally, here’s how to dry it on the line
Drying the blanket outdoors over a line is the ideal way of drying, but do not use pegs on the wired area. During the drying process, stretch the blanket back to its original size by working from side to side, stretching a strip at a time. This may need to be repeated.
Spot cleaning a heated mattress pad
If your heated mattress pad has stains or odours, you can carefully spot-treat these.
Only use gentle soap or detergent, as harsh sprays can damage the heated mattress pad or wiring. Spray on to stains or soiled parts, and rub gently with a wet sponge to clean.
You can do a spot clean on its own, or wash your pad in the washing machine after.
Storing a heated mattress pad after cleaning
Always ensure your heated mattress pad is fully dry if you’re storing it away for summer.
Check that cables aren’t damaged, or for any wear and tear on the outer materials, and take care to fold the mattress protector carefully to avoid bending or twisting wires.
Store your mattress pad in a clean, dry place, ideally in the storage bag it came in.
We hope you feel more confident cleaning and drying your heated mattress protector. You can also read our in-depth guide to washing an electric blanket or throw here.