A pressure cushion does a lot of work. It protects skin, supports posture and helps prevent pressure injuries for people who spend long hours seated. Keeping it clean is just as important as choosing the right one in the first place.
This guide walks you through how to clean each type of pressure cushion safely, how often to do it, and what to avoid so you don't damage the materials.
Why Cleaning Your Pressure Cushion Matters
Most people think about cushion hygiene in terms of odour or appearance. But for anyone at risk of pressure injuries, a dirty cushion is a genuine health concern.
Hygiene, skin integrity and infection risk
If the skin is compromised, even a small graze or early-stage pressure sore, bacteria on a soiled cushion can enter the wound. For people managing incontinence, urine and moisture degrade the cushion material over time and create conditions where bacteria thrive.
A clean cushion also lasts longer. Regular care preserves the foam structure, the waterproofing on PU covers, and the integrity of gel and air cells. Neglect shortens the life of even a good-quality cushion.
How to Clean Each Type of Pressure Cushion
Different cushion types need different approaches. Using the wrong method can destroy the foam structure, degrade the gel, or damage the waterproofing on the cover.
Cleaning the cover
Most pressure cushion covers are machine washable. Check the care label first, but a 40–60°C wash on a gentle cycle is typical for fabric covers. Avoid bleach on waterproof PU covers. It breaks down the waterproofing over time. Air dry rather than tumble dry; heat degrades the protective coating.
If you don't have a spare cover, wash and dry it thoroughly before putting it back on. A damp cover can trap moisture against the skin, which is exactly what you're trying to prevent.
Foam cushions
Spot clean only. Do not submerge a foam cushion in water. It destroys the cell structure and the cushion won't recover its shape.
Use a damp cloth with a small amount of mild soap. Wipe the affected area, then use a clean damp cloth to remove any soap residue. Allow the foam to dry completely before use. This takes 24 to 48 hours depending on room temperature. Don't use a microwave, oven, or hair dryer to speed up drying.
Gel cushions
Wipe the gel component with a damp cloth. Avoid harsh solvents, alcohol-based sprays, or anything not listed as safe for the specific cushion material. These can degrade the gel over time. Always check the manufacturer's care instructions for your specific brand.
Air cushions
Wipe the cells with an antibacterial cloth or wipe. Watch the valve area closely. Moisture there can cause problems with the valve mechanism. Allow the cushion to dry completely before re-inflating.
How Often Should You Clean a Pressure Cushion?
Cleaning frequency depends on how the cushion is used and by whom.
| Situation | Recommended frequency |
|---|---|
| After any incontinence incident | Immediately |
| Shared-use cushion (e.g. aged care facility, family carer using with multiple people) | Once a week |
| Personal-use cushion (one person only) | Once a fortnight |
When to use a hospital-grade disinfectant
Routine cleaning with mild soap and water is enough for most situations. But if the cushion is used by someone with an open wound or active pressure injury, cleaning alone won't be enough.
Use a TGA-registered hospital-grade disinfectant. You can verify products on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG). Always follow the contact time listed on the product label. The disinfectant needs to remain wet on the surface for the stated time to be effective.
We recommend speaking with your healthcare provider or occupational therapist about infection control protocols if there is an open wound present. They can advise on the right disinfectant for your specific cushion material.
Key Takeaways
- Machine wash covers at 40–60°C on a gentle cycle. Air dry only.
- Spot clean foam only. Never submerge. Give it 24–48 hours to dry fully.
- Wipe gel and air cushions with a damp cloth. Avoid harsh solvents.
- Clean immediately after any incontinence incident. Routine cleaning fortnightly for personal use.
- Use a TGA-registered disinfectant when a wound is present. Check the ARTG register.
Looking after your cushion well means it will look after you longer. If you're starting to notice your cushion isn't recovering its shape or providing the same level of comfort, it may be time to consider a replacement. Browse our full range of pressure relief cushions to find the right fit for your needs.