Yes, you can wash bed bug mattress covers. In fact, it is recommended to wash them regularly as part of your bed bug prevention and control measures. When washing bed bug mattress covers, it is important to follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer.
Most bed bug mattress covers can be washed in hot water and dried on high heat to kill any bed bugs or their eggs that may be present. It is also important to inspect the cover for any signs of wear and tear and replace it if necessary.
Dos and don’ts
Dos
- Follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer.
- Wash the cover regularly as part of your bed bug prevention and control measures.
- Wash the cover in hot water to kill any bed bugs or their eggs that may be present.
- Dry the cover on high heat for at least 30 minutes to ensure that all bed bugs and their eggs are killed.
- Inspect the cover for any signs of wear and tear and replace it if necessary.
- Use a gentle detergent that is safe for use on the cover.
Don’ts
- Do not wash the cover in cold water as this may not kill all bed bugs and their eggs.
- Do not use bleach or other harsh chemicals on the cover as this may damage the fabric.
- Do not dry the cover on low heat as this may not kill all bed bugs and their eggs.
- Do not use fabric softener as it may reduce the effectiveness of the cover.
- Do not iron the cover as this may damage the fabric.
READ MORE: Can you wash bed bugs out of clothes?
5-step guide to washing bed bug mattress covers
Step 1
Remove the mattress cover – Remove the bed bug mattress cover from your mattress and take it to the washing machine. Be sure to inspect the cover for any signs of wear and tear, such as holes or loose seams. If you find any damage, consider replacing the cover.
Step 2
Check the care instructions – Check the care label on the mattress cover for any special washing instructions. Most bed bug mattress covers can be washed in hot water and dried on high heat, but it’s always best to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure that you don’t damage the cover.
Step 3
Wash the cover – Wash the cover in hot water, using a gentle detergent that is safe for use on the cover. Set the washing machine to the longest cycle and add an extra rinse cycle to make sure that all detergent is removed from the cover. This will help to kill any bed bugs or their eggs that may be present.
Step 4
Dry the cover – Dry the mattress cover on high heat for at least 30 minutes. This will help to ensure that all bed bugs and their eggs are killed. Be sure to check the care instructions before drying, as some covers may shrink or become damaged if exposed to high heat.
Step 5
Replace the cover – Once the mattress cover is dry, replace it on your mattress. Be sure to inspect the cover again for any signs of wear and tear. If you notice any damage, replace the cover to ensure that your bed remains protected from bed bugs.
FAQs
How often should I wash my bed bug mattress cover?
It’s recommended to wash your bed bug mattress cover at least once every two months or whenever it becomes soiled. Washing the cover regularly can help to prevent bed bugs from infesting your mattress.
Can I put my bed bug mattress cover in the dryer?
Yes, you can put your bed bug mattress cover in the dryer on high heat for at least 30 minutes. This will help to ensure that all bed bugs and their eggs are killed. Be sure to check the care instructions before drying, as some covers may shrink or become damaged if exposed to high heat.
Do I need to use a special detergent to wash my bed bug mattress cover?
No, you don’t need to use a special detergent to wash your bed bug mattress cover. However, it’s important to use a gentle detergent that is safe for use on the cover. Avoid using bleach or other harsh chemicals as this may damage the fabric.
Final thoughts ðŸ’
To summarize, it is recommended to wash bed bug mattress covers regularly to prevent bed bugs from infesting your mattress. To properly wash a bed bug mattress cover, follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer, use hot water and high heat settings, and avoid using bleach or other harsh chemicals. It’s also important to inspect the cover for any signs of wear and tear and replace it if necessary.
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