LaundrySettings
Water temperature

What temperature should you wash a mattress protector at?

Warm water cleans most mattress protectors well; use cold for delicate or older protectors. Avoid hot water unless the care label specifically allows it.

Reviewed June 10, 2026

Temperature
Warm or cold water
Cycle
Normal or gentle
Spin
Medium spin

Care-label caveats

  • High dryer heat is the most common way waterproof protectors get ruined; keep heat low or air dry.
  • Avoid bleach and fabric softener unless the care label allows them.
  • Air dry vinyl-backed protectors instead of machine drying.
  • Do not iron a waterproof protector.
  • Let the protector dry completely before putting it back on the mattress.

FAQ

What temperature should you wash a mattress protector at?

Warm water cleans most mattress protectors well; use cold for delicate or older protectors. Avoid hot water unless the care label specifically allows it.

What washer setting should I use for a mattress protector?

Use a normal or gentle cycle with warm or cold water and mild detergent. Skip bleach and fabric softener; both can degrade the waterproof membrane.

Full washer and dryer guide for a mattress protector