You’re here for the answer to “Can you wash bed bug mattress covers?” You may be dealing with bed bugs in your home, or just like how the covers minimize seams and creases.
If you are dealing with bed bugs, you’re likely taking every precaution to eliminate them. Investing in a bed bug mattress cover is an essential step in the process.
They design these covers to fully encase your mattress, trapping any bed bugs and preventing them from spreading. Additionally, they also stop newly introduced bed bugs from getting to your mattress and box spring. So their purpose is not only for prevention but also works for monitoring.
However, what happens when your cover gets dirty? Can you wash bed bug mattress covers?
The answer is yes, you can wash bed bug mattress covers. In fact, it’s recommended that you do so every once in a while. Washing your bed bug mattress cover will keep it clean and free of any debris that could attract other tiny bugs in the bed that are not bed bugs.
Can You Wash Bed Bug Mattress Covers?
If you have a bed bug issue in your home, you may use mattress and box spring covers on your beds. Not only do these help keep bed bugs from infesting your mattress and box spring, but they also help with dust mite prevention in your mattress. It’s imperative that you cover your box spring since it has a lot of internal hiding places.
That’s why many people use bed bug mattress covers to protect their beds. But can you wash bed bug mattress covers? The answer is yes, you can.
Here’s what you need to know about can you wash bed bug mattress covers?
Those people who never had bed bugs and are just using the covers as a prevention or monitoring tool can usually wash them without worry. However, if you have the covers on because of an active bed bug issue, we do not recommend taking them off to clean them.
Why You Need to Wash Bed Bug Mattress Covers
Bed bug mattress covers are awesome for keeping bed bugs out of your mattress or zipping them in. Although, they can also trap sweat, dead skin cells, carpet beetles, and other debris.
Over time, this can create a breeding ground for bacteria and other harmful microorganisms. That’s why washing your bed bug mattress covers a few times yearly is essential.
However, these are not meant to be washed as frequently as your bed sheets. If you are truly worried about removing the cover, it’s probably best not to clean it and just place a second cover over the top of the first one.
- 100% Waterproof - Top protection against perspiration, bed wetting, liquids and stains; 10-year quality guarantee (NOTE: For six-sided protection, buy a SureGuard Mattress Encasement).
- Keeps Your Mattress Clean & Fresh - Blocks dust, dirt and dander on the top side. Buy together with SureGuard Pillow Protectors.
- Soft & Noiseless - 100% cotton terry surface; Wicks away moisture; Retains the feel of your mattress - Free from Vinyl, PVC, Phthalates, fire retardants and other toxic chemicals
- Durable & Easy to Clean - Machine wash & dry - For frequent accidents, buy 2 or more - while one is washed, the other protects the mattress
- Queen (60 in x 80 in) - Fitted Sheet Style; Stretchable skirt fits any depth mattress. Independently lab tested and GREENGUARD Gold certified.
What to Do Before Removing Your Mattress Cover?
- Inspect the entire cover for any early signs of bed bugs.
- Check the zipper to make sure it is intact.
- Look for any holes or rips in the cover.
- If you see anything suspicious, investigate further before removing the cover. Sometimes, putting a new encasement over the old one is better.
When Not to Wash Your Bed Bug Encasement?
Washing or drying an infested mattress cover can cause the bugs to spread and make them harder to get rid of. Don’t take the encasement off if you are in the middle of treatment. If you are dealing with an active infestation, washing your bed bug encasement is not recommended.
Also, if you have recently undergone treatment for bed bugs, wait until you are clear before washing your mattress encasement. Waiting will ensure that any eggs or bugs not killed by the treatment are not released into your home.
How to Wash Bed Bug Mattress Covers
Washing bed bug mattress covers is easy. First, remove the cover from your mattress. Check the encasement’s label to see if it’s machine washable. If it is, wash it in hot water with mild detergent, then place it into the dryer.
You don’t want to use bleach on the bed bug cover because that may cause microtears and holes in the fabric. The hot agitation will hopefully remove any bugs, bacteria, germs, or eggs that have set up shop on your mattress encasement. The next step is the most important: a high-heat dryer!
Drying Bed Bug Mattress Covers
After washing, dry the bed bug mattress cover on high heat (at least 120°F). The dryer will kill any bed bugs, carpet beetles, beetle larvae, or eggs hiding in or on the cover. High heat will help kill any remaining bed bugs or eggs.
How Often Do You Wash Bed Bug Mattress Covers?
It’s recommended to wash bed bug mattress covers every few months. However, if you or someone in your household has an active bed bug infestation, you should not remove the cover.
In this case, you should purchase another mattress cover and place it over the top of the first one. Doing this will help prevent a re-infestation.
Preventing Bed Bugs
Will a mattress cover prevent bed bugs? No, it will not, but it will help you monitor and seal up a lot of the bugs.
What Are Bed Bugs, and Where Do They Hang Out?
Bed bugs are reddish-brown parasites that feed on human blood. You’ll find them in bedding, furniture, and other areas where people sleep or rest. If you are still determining if you have bed bugs learn more about how to find bed bugs during the day.
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How to Prevent Bed Bugs
Preventing bed bugs is essential to avoid the hassle and expense of dealing with a bed bug infestation. Here are some helpful tips so you prevent bed bugs from entering your home:
- Don’t bring in any second-hand furniture or bedding. Furthermore, look for signs of bed bugs, such as small black spots on any new furniture you bring.
- Use a bed bug mattress cover to protect your mattress and box spring. These covers prevent bed bugs from entering or escaping from your bedding. They also make it easy to monitor and spot evidence if your mattresses and box springs have a lot of hiding spots.
- Wash your bedding and clothing regularly in hot water + hot dryer to kill any bed bugs or eggs that may be present.
- Vacuum your home regularly, especially in areas where you sleep or rest. A good vacuum can help remove bed bugs or eggs hiding in carpets, furniture, or other sites. Check out these recommended vacuums for bed bugs.
- If you have a suspicion of bed bugs in your home, contact a pest control professional to help identify and eliminate the infestation.
Final Thoughts for Can You Wash Bed Bug Mattress Covers?
All in all, the answer to “Can you wash bed bug mattress covers” is a resounding yes! Since these covers prevent dust mites, you don’t have to wash them as frequently as your bed sheets.
Remember always to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when caring for and washing your bed bug mattress cover, as incorrect laundering may compromise its integrity. And don’t forget – remain vigilant should you have any suspicions of an infestation. Good luck!
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