How often do you wash your mattress protector? (stock) (Image: Getty Images)
People are only just realising how often you should your mattress protector.
The overlooked part of is in need of frequent washes, and experts at are now urging people to clean their bedding more often to improve their sleep hygiene.
While bedding changes should be part of any cleaning routine, the mattress protector might slip your mind as it’s typically buried beneath other bed sheets, meaning it doesn’t come into direct contact with skin.
However, you still need to clean it regularly. This especially applies to people with allergies or sensitive skin, as washing out the mattress protector prevents skin irritation.
WinstonsBeds mattress expert Rebecca Swain said: “Mattress protectors often get neglected because people forget they’re there or they won’t fit in the washing machine with the rest of the bedding.
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“Although protectors don’t need to be washed as often as your bedsheets, it’s still important to give them a good clean every other month to maintain your sleep hygiene.
”There are exceptions to this rule – if you’ve been ill, are struggling with allergies, allow pets in your bed or have had guests over, make sure to wash the protector more frequently.”
Rebecca’s tips were echoed by people online, with one X user writing: “I was today years old when I learned you should wash your mattress protector every two months. This will likely be life changing for my allergies.” Another user replied that an “allergy pillow case” had been a “game changer”.
Rebecca continued: “Not only does a clean mattress protector prevent bacteria from clinging to the bedsheets, but it also protects your mattress from damage.
“Mattresses can be a significant investment, and protectors are essential for keeping them in good condition. However, if the protector is dirty, it can eventually affect the mattress underneath.
“By taking good care of a mattress protector it should last you around two years, however not washing it regularly will significantly shorten its lifespan.”