Mattress Pads
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What are mattress pads?
A mattress pad, or topper or underpad, is intended for use on top of a mattress. The pad provides an extra layer of comfort and may be made of a wide variety of materials, including cotton, down and foam. The intent is for the mattress pad to improve the user's quality of sleep through the added padding or softness added to the mattress.
What are mattress pads used for?
Mattress pads are used to add comfort to existing mattresses in a variety of situations.
Very firm mattresses
Added support for injured and sore backs, hips, shoulders, etc.
Waterproofing protection in many cases
Added padding to older mattresses which have begun to lose their shape and softness
Can you wash a mattress pad?
Depending on the material used to make the mattress pad, there are a variety of methods for cleaning.
Cotton mattress pads may be washed in the washing machine and tumble dried on low. Check manufacturer instructions for specific recommendations, however, as some brands may recommend air drying only.
Vinyl-backed mattress pads generally can be washed using cold or warm water on the gentle cycle, with a mild detergent. Occasionally, instructions may include machine drying, but generally, air drying is recommended for this type of mattress pad.
Foam mattress pads are more delicate than fabric pads. They easily tear in the washing machine or melt in dryers. These should be spot cleaned with a vacuum cleaner or enzyme-based cleaners like Oxi-Clean or white vinegar, lemon juice and water.
Down mattress pads may be machine washable. Always check the manufacturer's instructions before attempting to clean this type of pad, however, as many are not washing machine friendly. Pretreat stains with down cleaner and soak for 15 to 20 minutes, then wash on the delicate cycle with cool water and gentle, low-sudsing soap, then rinse twice. Non-washable down pads should be spot-cleaned and treated as directed by the manufacturer only.