Use care when putting the mattress pad on or when removing the mattress pad. The pad itself should fit snugly over the top of the mattress It is important to purchase the proper size pad for your mattress. For example if you have a queen size mattress, you should only use a queen size pad.
Remove the pad every few months for cleaning. Wash wool and down feather pads in a large washer with cool or warm water. Use large washers to ensure the pad does not get snagged or torn. You can't usually wash memory foam pads in machines, but you can shake them out to get rid of dust and flip them to minimize wear.
Dry pads in large dryers such as those found at laundromats, or hang them outside to dry. Use medium or low heat. Place a shoe or tennis ball in the dryer with down feather pads to help fluff them. Do not place memory foam pads in dryers. If you have to wet them to remove dirt, hang them out to dry.
Place a mattress cover over the pad and mattress before putting the sheets on for added protection against staining or tears.