Mattress covers, also known as mattress protectors, either encase or go on top of your mattress. They offer the mattress, as well as the person using it, a layer of protection. If you've opted to use a mattress cover, you may be wondering how long it will last. Well, we've done the research and have an answer for you.
Mattress covers will typically last one to two years, but they should be replaced sooner if the cover shows obvious wear and tear. A good rule of thumb to follow is to change your mattress cover once a year.
So, now you know approximately how long a mattress cover will last. However, if you have other questions about when you should replace your cover or what the best material is to use, you should keep reading. Additionally, we'll discuss why they sometimes turn yellow and whether the cover can be washed.
Replacing A Mattress Cover
Mattress covers won't last forever, and while mattresses can last a decade, mattress covers have a relatively short lifespan. You should still choose to use one, though. The benefits they provide far outweigh their short lifespan. Remember, they are taking the abuse your mattress otherwise would have, and they are much cheaper than buying a new mattress.
Mattress covers help elongate the life of your mattress. Some mattress covers are waterproof, which is an excellent option if you have children that might have accidents or spill a drink in the bed. Mattress covers can also protect the person sleeping on the bed from allergens and dust mites.
When should I replace my mattress cover?
As we mentioned above, it is recommended that you replace your mattress cover once a year or at the very least every two years. Check the packaging your mattress cover comes in. Some manufacturers will list how often you should replace their particular cover.
Inspect your mattress cover regularly when you change your sheets. If your cover starts to show any signs of wear and tear, you should replace it sooner. For example, if you start to see any rips, it's a pretty sure sign that you should go ahead and replace it as soon as you can. Once the cover begins to tear or becomes tattered, it can no longer protect your mattress as well it did from unwanted spills or stains.
When you purchase your mattress cover, be sure to check if the company offers a warranty on their product. Some mattress covers have up to 10-year warranties on them with no questions asked!
Click here to see SafeRest Hypoallergenic Waterproof Mattress Protector on Amazon.
Why do mattress covers turn yellow?
Mattress covers, like pillows and mattresses themselves, can sometimes turn yellow. This can happen for several reasons. It can occur from the oxidation of the fabric. Oxidation is a normal process that occurs due to the natural aging of the materials over time.
Sometimes, mattress covers turn yellow from being exposed to spills, bodily fluids like sweat or urine, dirt, or pet dander.
While yellowing can be normal, it is unsightly. If yellowing is something that bothers you, there are some steps you can take to slow down or prevent yellowing from occurring.
Shower Before Bed
Consider taking a shower before bed so that you are clean and free of dirt or sweat when you get under the sheets. If you live in a humid or hot climate, chances are you might still get sweaty during the night, but showering will at least reduce the chances of sweat finding its way to your mattress cover.
Keep The Pets Off
Though it might mean banishing your furry pal to the floor, reducing the number of times you let your pet on the bed can help reduce the amount of pet dander and dirt that reaches your cover.
Don't Smoke In Your Room
Smoking can cause fabrics, walls, and upholstery to turn yellow. Smoking outside can help prevent some of the discolorations.
Clean Regularly
Fortunately, if your yellow stains are from something other than natural aging, you may be able to get rid of them. Cleaning your cover regularly or treating any spills right away can help keep it looking fresh.
Can mattress covers be washed?
Most mattress covers can be washed. Be sure to check the label on your mattress covers for washing directions. If your mattress cover can go in the washer, throw it in with your sheets when you clean those. Including your mattress cover in your routine washes can help protect it and keep it clean.
If you've had to treat stains on your cover, wash it separately while still following any washing directions on the label.
Treating stains immediately will help prolong the life of your cover. If you spill something on your bed, use a cloth or paper towel to blot up as much excess liquid as you can. You can try a fabric stain remover and apply it following the directions on the label.
Click here to see Resolve Multi-Fabric Cleaner and Upholstery Stain Remover on Amazon.
If you'd prefer to use ingredients you likely have in your home, vinegar, baking soda, and hydrogen peroxide can all help remove stains.
Using a spray bottle, apply vinegar to the stain and allow it to soak. Blot baking soda over the vinegar-soaked stain until the baking soda stops bubbling. If the stain still hasn't gone, you can try applying hydrogen peroxide. Dab a small amount to it, but, unlike the vinegar, do not let it soak through.
If you're considering a mattress cover because you're tired of the stains your mattress has already accumulated, you might be able to remove some of them before you place the cover on. Check out our other blog post on the subject: How to Get Stains Out of Mattress [5 Methods].
What is the best material for a mattress cover?
Mattress covers come in a variety of materials, but which is the best material? Well, the material that is best for you depends on your needs as well as your budget. Mattress covers can be waterproof, water-resistant, and hypoallergenic. Some provide only a layer of protection, while others also add a layer of comfort.
You can expect to find mattress covers made from cotton, vinyl, polyester, polyurethane, or a combination of materials.
If you need a hypoallergenic mattress cover, a cotton or a cotton blend cover will be the best choice. Polyester is a good choice if you need a mattress cover that is affordable and easy to take care of. Polyurethane will make your cover waterproof and breathable and can often be found combined with cotton.
Any of the above materials can make a good mattress cover. You should compare products to decide which one will best fit your needs. Vinyl is the only option that you should probably consider avoiding. While cheap and waterproof, it's often noisy and uncomfortable.
Click here to see Quilted Fitted Cotton Pillow Top Mattress Pad Cover on Amazon.
Final Thoughts
Hopefully, our article has given you the answer you were looking for. Remember, even though mattress covers aren't extremely long-lasting, it is more cost-effective to replace the cover rather than the mattress. Don't forget to check whether your mattress cover has a warranty for another way to save money!
For more reading on the topic, check out our other blog post on different types of mattress toppers here: 7 Types of Mattress Toppers [and How To Choose The Best One]