If you've invested in a high-quality mattress encasement—like the Ivytress Restore & Zip Series—you’ve taken a major step toward better sleep hygiene, allergy protection, and mattress durability. But just like any essential bedding item, a mattress encasement needs proper care to stay clean, effective, and long-lasting.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to clean, maintain, and protect your mattress encasement so it can perform at its best for years to come. Whether you're dealing with accidental spills, seasonal deep cleaning, or just routine upkeep, this post covers everything you need.
Why Mattress Encasement Maintenance Matters
Mattress encasements are your first line of defense against:
Dust mites and allergens
Sweat and body oils
Pet dander and hair
Bed bugs and moisture damage
Mold and bacterial growth
Even though they act as shields, encasements are not immune to buildup over time. Regular cleaning helps:
✅ Preserve the material quality
✅ Maintain breathability and softness
✅ Prevent odor and discoloration
✅ Extend the lifespan of your entire sleep system
And most importantly, it helps ensure a cleaner, healthier sleeping environment.
How Often Should You Clean Your Mattress Encasement?
The answer depends on how you use it:
Ivytress Tip: Because the Restore & Zip Series is fully removable and machine washable, cleaning it is far easier than cleaning a traditional mattress or bulky foam topper.
Step-by-Step: How to Clean Your Ivytress Mattress Encasement
🛏️ Step 1: Remove the Encasement
Unzip your Ivytress encasement on all sides and carefully remove it from your mattress core and comfort layers.
If your Ivytress encasement has inserts inside (foam layers, toppers, or comfort pads), be sure to take those out and set them aside. Most of these are spot-clean only unless otherwise labeled.
🧼 Step 2: Check the Washing Label
Always start by reading the care instructions on the sewn-in label. But as a general rule, Ivytress encasements are machine washable and dryer-safe on gentle settings.
🧺 Step 3: Machine Wash on Cold (Gentle Cycle)
Use cold or warm water (never hot)
Select “gentle” or “delicates” cycle
Add a mild detergent (preferably fragrance-free)
Do not bleach or use fabric softener—they can break down the protective barrier
Pro Tip: Add half a cup of distilled white vinegar to the rinse cycle to naturally remove odors and break down allergens.
🌬️ Step 4: Tumble Dry on Low or Air Dry
High heat can warp waterproof linings or compromise the zippers. Always dry on:
Low tumble
Air dry when possible
Ensure the encasement is completely dry before reusing it to prevent mold
🧽 Step 5: Spot-Clean Between Washes
For minor messes, a simple DIY cleaning solution works wonders:
1 part white vinegar
2 parts warm water
A drop of mild dish soap
Use a clean cloth or sponge to dab the stain, then wipe with a clean towel. Let it air dry fully before zipping back onto the mattress.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here’s what not to do when cleaning your encasement:
❌ Don’t wash on hot — can shrink or damage materials
❌ Don’t wring or twist the cover — may stress seams
❌ Don’t use bleach — breaks down fibers
❌ Don’t iron — heat can destroy water-resistant coatings
❌ Don’t store when damp — risk of mildew or mold
Maintenance Tips to Make It Last Longer
Use a Mattress Topper or Sheet Above
Even though the encasement is tough, adding a layer of sheets or a thin topper prevents daily friction and wear on the encasement’s surface.
Rotate or Flip the Mattress Core
This prevents pressure points from wearing out specific areas of your encasement over time.
Vacuum the Encased Mattress Core Periodically
If you're doing a deep clean, unzip the encasement and vacuum the exposed mattress base to remove trapped dust or skin flakes.
Store Comfort Layers Separately
If you’re swapping out layers inside your Ivytress (like foam inserts or toppers), make sure to store the unused layers in a clean, dry bag to avoid mold or deformation.
Keep Pets Off (if possible)
Pet claws and hair can reduce the lifespan of the fabric. Consider using a throw blanket on top of the bed if your furry friend insists on cuddling.
When Should You Replace the Encasement?
If you're caring for your Ivytress properly, you should enjoy 5–10 years of use, depending on frequency and intensity of use.
However, it’s time to consider a replacement if:
The zippers are broken or warped
The waterproof lining is cracked or peeling
Persistent stains or smells won’t wash out
The fabric has thinning or holes
Luckily, Ivytress allows you to replace the cover without replacing the entire bed, saving money and reducing waste.
Real Customer Experience: Clean Sleep, Year After Year
"We've had our Ivytress cover for 3 years now. I wash it every few months and it still looks brand new. No odors, no bugs, no issues—even with two dogs in the house. It’s so much easier to clean than any mattress protector we’ve used before."
– Angela M., Portland, OR
Final Thoughts: Clean Encasement = Better Sleep
Your mattress encasement is more than just a dust shield—it’s the foundation of a clean, breathable, and healthy sleep experience.
By following these simple care steps, you can:
Protect your investment
Improve air quality and skin health
Maximize the comfort and lifespan of your Ivytress system
Good sleep starts with clean sleep.
🛒 Ready for an Upgrade?
If your current encasement is worn out—or you’ve never tried a modular, washable system—explore the Ivytress Restore & Zip Series. Designed for effortless maintenance and personalized comfort, it’s the only encasement you’ll ever need.