Can you wash memory foam?

Memory foam is a polyurethane open-cell structure that soaks up water like a sponge and loses all mechanical strength while saturated. The agitation of a wash cycle tears the wet cells apart, and the foam comes out permanently crumbled or compressed. Drying is the second problem: the interior holds water long after the surface feels dry, and a warm damp foam core is close to ideal for mould. Heat from a tumble dryer degrades the polymer as well. Surface cleaning is the only safe approach.

What goes wrong

• The foam tears internally and never recovers its shape.
• Water trapped in the core grows mould that cannot be removed.
• Dryer heat breaks down the polyurethane and can scorch it.

What to do instead

• Blot spills immediately, then dab with a cloth wrung out in mild soapy water.
• Sprinkle bicarbonate of soda, leave for an hour, then vacuum it off to deal with odour.
• Air dry flat and away from direct heat, allowing a full day.
• Use a zipped, washable cover so the foam never needs cleaning directly.

Other "can you wash" questions

• Can you wash pillows? It depends — Down and polyester pillows wash fine. Memory foam and latex must never go in the machine.
• Can you wash sneakers in the washing machine? It depends — Canvas and synthetic trainers survive a cold gentle cycle. Leather and suede do not.
• Can you wash a weighted blanket? It depends — Usually yes, but check the weight — most domestic machines top out around 7 kg dry.
• Can you wash silk? It depends — Hand wash cold with a pH-neutral detergent. Never use biological powder or hot water.
• Can you wash wool? It depends — Yes, cold and without agitation. Heat plus movement is what felts it, not water alone.
• Can you wash stuffed animals? It depends — Most wash fine in a pillowcase on cold gentle. Anything with electronics or glued parts does not.
• Can you wash a down jacket? Yes — Yes, and you should — but it must be tumble dried with dryer balls or the down stays clumped.