How to Clean a Tempur-Pedic Mattress

A mattress takes a great deal of abuse from sweat, dead skin cells, dust mites, pets, and food spills. Before you see stains or notice a funky odor, it’s time to clean your mattress. Tempur-Pedic mattresses are made from memory foam that should not be cleaned like a traditional innerspring mattress with steam or wet solutions.

As with most mattresses, buying a Tempur-Pedic is a significant expense so you want it to last as long as possible. Learn how to clean a Tempur-Pedic mattress or mattress topper correctly.

What Is a Tempur-Pedic?

Tempur-Pedic is an iconic mattress brand manufactured by Temper Sealy. The brand offers a variety of mattress styles, mattress toppers, pillows, bed bases, and bedding.

How Often to Clean a Tempur-Pedic Mattress

How you use your bed will help determine how often the mattress needs to be cleaned. If your mattress is only used for sleeping, then seasonal cleaning will keep your Tempur-Pedic mattress clean and odor-free. However, if you have pets that sleep with you, you eat and drink and spill things in the bed, are potty-training a child, or if someone is bed-ridden, you probably need to clean the mattress monthly. Food and beverage spills, urine, or blood stains should be cleaned up immediately.

Tempur-Pedic mattresses are sold with a washable, zip-off cooling cover that helps protect the mattress. The company also sells the Tempur-Protect Mattress Protector that is waterproof with a finish that traps liquids and protects against stains. The mattress covers should be washed at least monthly and more frequently if there are stains or if someone is ill. The same cleaning schedules apply to Tempur-Pedic Mattress toppers and their covers.

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What You’ll Need

Equipment / Tools

• Soft-bristled nylon brush
• Washing machine
• Clothesline or drying rack
• Vacuum with upholstery brush
• Microfiber towels
• Circulating fan

Materials

• Enzyme-based laundry detergent
• Cool water
• Baking soda

Instructions

1. Select an Optimal Time to CleanThe best time to clean a Tempur-Pedic mattress is when you have at least four hours before the mattress will be needed again. This gives you time to clean the mattress and for the mattress cover to dry thoroughly.TipChoose a breezy, dry day for mattress cleaning. This will speed drying and help prevent excessive dampness that could lead to mildew growth.
2. Remove All BeddingRemove the comforter, sheets, and mattress cover from the mattress.
3. Inspect and Treat Stains on the Mattress CoverWhether you are using the mattress cover that came with your Tempur-Pedic mattress or upgraded to the Tempur-Protect cover, they are washed following the same instructions.Inspect the cover for any visible stains. Treat any food, drink, blood, or urine stains with a dab of enzyme-based laundry detergent. Use your fingers or a soft-bristled nylon brush to work the detergent into the stain. Allow it to work for at least 10 minutes before you place the cover in the washer.
4. Wash the Mattress CoverSet the washer water temperature to cold and select a normal or bulky load cycle. Add the top cover or Tempur-Protect cover to the washer and wash using your regular detergent. Do not add chlorine bleach or fabric softeners.If you have purchased a complete cover that features the removable, washable top cover and a bottom layer that encases the sides and bottom of the mattress, only the top cover is washable. The bottom layer should be spot cleaned only using a solution of water and a gentle detergent.None of the covers should be dry cleaned. The dry cleaning chemicals could damage the SmartClimate cool-to-the-touch material.
5. Dry the CoverAir-drying the mattress cover is recommended by the manufacturer. If you must use an automatic dryer, use the air-only or lowest heat setting. Check the cover frequently to prevent over-drying the fabric.
6. Vacuum the MattressTo remove dust, use a powerful hand-held vacuum with a soft brush attachment or a floor vacuum with a hose and upholstery brush. Start at one side of the mattress and work in a circular motion to dislodge dust and dust mites that have accumulated on the surface.
7. Treat OdorsTo help remove strong odors like cigarette smoke or urine, sprinkle the mattress with dry baking soda. Let it sit for at least one hour, longer is better, to absorb the odors. Vacuum away the powder.WARNINGTempur-Pedic mattresses should not be cleaned with any type of wet cleaning solution including steam cleaning.
8. Remove Liquid Accidents ImmediatelyIf there is a drink or urine accident, the moisture should be removed immediately. Use microfiber towels to absorb as much moisture as possible. Place the towels over the stain and apply pressure with your hands or a heavy object. Keep changing the towels as the moisture is absorbed.Allow the mattress to air-dry. Do not apply heat from a hair-dryer or other heater. Add a circulating fan near the mattress to speed drying.

Tips to Keep Your Tempur-Pedic Mattress Clean Longer

• Change bed sheets and wash the mattress cover often, especially during summer months when sweat can be trapped in the bedding.
• Vacuum the mattress regularly, at least monthly, to remove dust mites.
• Never use a wet-cleaning solution or excessive heat when cleaning the mattress.
• Monitor humidity levels in the bedroom to prevent the growth of mold and mildew spores.
• Never leave damp items on the bed, and be sure that bedding is completely dry before placing it on the bed.