How to Care for a Pillow Top Mattress Pad

Pillow top mattress pads are pads that simulate the feeling of a pillow top mattress. They are commonly made of down feather, memory foam or wool and are ideal for firm or plush mattresses that need extra softness. They fit over the top of the mattress like a mattress cover. Pillow top pads not only offer a softer top for a mattress, but they also act as a cover for the mattress, protecting the mattress from wear and tear. Mattresses with pillow top padding stitched on cannot be flipped over, but with pads, you can remove the pad and flip the mattress as needed.

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Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Washer
• Dryer

1. Use care when putting the mattress pad on or when removing the mattress pad. The pad itself should fit snugly over the top of the mattress It is important to purchase the proper size pad for your mattress. For example if you have a queen size mattress, you should only use a queen size pad.

2. Remove the pad every few months for cleaning. Wash wool and down feather pads in a large washer with cool or warm water. Use large washers to ensure the pad does not get snagged or torn. You can't usually wash memory foam pads in machines, but you can shake them out to get rid of dust and flip them to minimize wear.

3. Dry pads in large dryers such as those found at laundromats, or hang them outside to dry. Use medium or low heat. Place a shoe or tennis ball in the dryer with down feather pads to help fluff them. Do not place memory foam pads in dryers. If you have to wet them to remove dirt, hang them out to dry.

4. Place a mattress cover over the pad and mattress before putting the sheets on for added protection against staining or tears.

Tips & Warnings

• Remove pads quickly if they get wet to prevent the liquid from seeping down onto the mattress.
• Adjust and center the pad weekly as the pad may slide a little on the mattress.
• Allow the pads to dry completely after cleaning before putting them back on the mattress. Damp pads can cause mold growth and damage to the mattress itself.

References

• Pillow Top Mattress Pad Information