A mattress protector keeps your bed clean by guarding against dust, spills, sweat, and dust mites. Mattress protectors also add a waterproof layer without changing how your mattress feels, and are usually machine washable. If you share a bed with kids or pets, or if you enjoy a morning cup of coffee in bed, mattress protectors are a simple way to keep your mattress in good shape.
Below, we’ll cover how mattress protectors differ from pads and toppers, when investing in a waterproof protector makes sense, and we’ll highlight the best mattress protectors for difference scenarios.
What Is a Mattress Protector?
A mattress protector is removable cover that shields your mattress from liquids, stains, and everyday grime. Because the goal is to add protection without bulk or noise, most protectors use a thin, breathable waterproof membrane beneath a soft top layer, often cotton, bamboo, or Tencel.
Mattress Protector vs. Mattress Pad vs. Topper
Protectors, pads, and toppers each solve a different need. Here’s what each does, where they differ, and when to use which.
Mattress Protector
A mattress protector is a thin layer focused on blocking dust, sweat, and liquids. A good waterproof protector stays quiet and soft under your sheets, and it shouldn’t change how your mattress feels.
Mattress Pad
A mattress pad adds light cushioning with basic spill defense. Pads are quilted and a bit thicker than protectors, softening a firm surface a little and providing some protection. If you want a small comfort boost and some water resistance, a mattress pad may be for you.
Mattress Topper
A mattress topper is a comfort upgrade. Toppers are thicker, made of memory foam, latex, or down-alternative, and are meant to change firmness or pressure relief. They’re great for reviving an older bed or fixing an uncomfortable mattress, but most aren’t waterproof. If you pair a protector with a topper, layer it like this: mattress, protector, topper, fitted sheet.
Why Use a Mattress Protector: Spill Defense, Hygiene & Warranty Benefits
A mattress protector keeps sweat, spills, and skin oils off your mattress, helping prevent stains and odors and extending the life of your bed. If you have kids, pets, or simply enjoy the occasional late-night snack, the protector often pays for itself the first time something spills.
Mattress protectors also support a cleaner, healthier sleep environment. Many protectors block dust mites and trap dander so you can wash them away, making them great for allergy relief. And since most mattress warranties don’t cover stains, using a protector helps keep your mattress clean and your warranty intact.
Types of Mattress Protectors: Fitted, Five-Sided & Encasement
Mattress protectors come in three common styles: fitted, five-sided, and full encasement. Pick your protector based on the coverage you want and how you sleep.
Fitted Protector
A fitted protector covers the top of the mattress like a fitted sheet. It’s the lightest, most breathable option and provides reliable everyday spill protection. This style works well for guest rooms, bunk beds, and anyone who prefers a cooler sleep surface.
Five-Sided Protector
A five-sided protector wraps the top and all four sides of the mattress, offering added protection from side spills and splashes. It’s also a great match for adjustable bases, since it flexes easily with the bed.
Full Encasement
A full encasement zips around all six sides of the mattress. It offers the highest level of coverage against dust mites and helps block bed bugs. Choose this style for severe allergies, rental properties, or long-term storage.
Materials & Breathability: Cotton, Bamboo, Tencel & Polyester
A protector’s fabric influences its feel, temperature regulation, and noise level. Here’s how common materials compare so you can choose the one that best fits your sleep preferences.
Cotton
Cotton feels familiar and absorbs surface moisture well. Look for a knit or terry top with a quiet polyurethane membrane, so you get waterproofing without crinkle. Cotton protectors are easy to wash and won’t drastically change the feel of your mattress.
Bamboo
“Bamboo” fabric is typically a rayon or viscose blend with a soft, smooth feel. Many sleepers notice a slight cooling effect and less cling in humid conditions.
Tencel
Tencel, made from sustainably sourced wood pulp, has a sleek, silky feel and manages moisture exceptionally well. It often feels cool to the touch and drapes smoothly under your sheets.
Polyester
Knit polyester is durable, budget friendly, and easy to wash. It withstands frequent laundering and travel, making it a practical choice for everyday use.
How to Choose a Mattress Protector: Key Factors
When shopping for a mattress protector, start by considering what you need it to do. Do you want simple spill defense, full bug blocking, or cooling comfort that’s easy to wash? Once you know your priorities, match the style and fabric to your sleep habits and mattress depth.
Look for the following:
- Style that fits your needs: fitted, five-sided, or encasement
- A breathable, waterproof membrane, usually made from polyurethane (PU) or thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU)
- Quiet fabric top like cotton, bamboo, Tencel, or knit polyester
- Washer- and dryer-safe care tag with low-heat drying
- Trusted brands with clear specs
Mattress Protector Waterproofing, Noise & Durability
Most modern mattress protectors use a thin polyurethane or TPU barrier. These materials block liquids while still allowing air to pass. In contrast, PVC-backed protectors are cheaper but can feel stiff or noisy over time. A quality cover should be quiet under your sheets and free of plastic-like crinkling.
Keep in mind that waterproof layers can wear down with high heat or harsh detergents. Using gentle wash cycles and low drying temperatures will help the barrier last longer.
Mattress Protector Fit & Sizing Guide: Depth, Elastic & Zipper Quality
Mattress protectors follow standard mattress sizes, so you can usually choose the one labeled for your bed. If the protector comes in multiple depth options—or if you just want to be sure you get the right fit—measure before you buy. Measure the mattress from base to top, including any topper, then add an inch or two so the skirt can tuck under without strain. Additionally, deep pockets are especially helpful for pillow-top and hybrid beds.
What to check:
- Elastic around the entire edge for a secure grip
- A stretchy skirt fabric that hugs the mattress without slipping
- For encasements: a fine-tooth zipper that closes cleanly
- A zipper cover or internal flap to limit gaps
A proper fit keeps the protector smooth and quiet and prevents stress on seams when you change the sheets.
Mattress Protector Care & Washing: How to Clean Without Ruining the Barrier
Before the first use, be sure to wash your mattress protector to remove packaging dust. Use cold or warm water on gentle with a mild detergent, and skip bleach and fabric softeners as they can weaken the waterproof layer and leave residue that traps heat.
Tumble dry your mattress protector on low or line dry, and don’t iron or dry clean it. High heat can damage the membrane and shorten the protector’s life.
For accidents, blot first, then wash soon after. If you’re using an encasement-style mattress protector for allergies, wash it on a regular schedule to keep the barrier effective and fresh.
Best Mattress Protectors by Need
Below are practical picks for common situations. Each recommendation notes the style, fabric, and waterproof level to consider so you can choose quickly.
Best Mattress Protector for Bed Bugs: Full Encasement Mattress Protectors
For the best bed bug defense, start with a true six-sided encasement mattress protector. You’ll want:
- Fine-tooth zippers
- A zipper garage or flap
- Tight fabric weave
- Bound seams
The goal is to remove hiding spots while adding quiet, breathable waterproofing. One example is the SafeRest Premium Mattress Encasement, which pairs a micro-zipper with a closure flap.
If you prefer a brand with strong allergen claims, the AllerEase Maximum Protector uses a tightly woven shell and a zip closure to block entry points.
Meanwhile, if you’re working with a strict budget, the PEKUR Zippered Mattress Encasement covers all sides and comes in many sizes.
Install your encasements on a clean, dry mattress and leave them on long-term.
Best Mattress Protector for Bed Wetting & Incontinence
Frequent washing calls for a knit or terry surface that blocks leaks, a durable polyurethane membrane, and care tags that allow gentle cycles and low-heat drying. The SureGuard Cotton Terry Waterproof Protector fits that brief and holds up to frequent washes.
For overnight backup, layer a reusable sheet protector over the fitted cover. The Artivestion Waterproof Mattress Protector goes on top to catches accidents, and heads straight to the washer after spillage. Keeping two sets on hand can make sure that late-night swaps are simple.
Best Mattress Protector for Hot Sleepers
If you’re typically warm at night, look for breathable knits like Tencel or bamboo-rayon over a thin PU or TPU membrane. Lighter fabrics and deep pockets help airflow, like on the Sealy Cooling Comfort Mattress Protector.
Thicker beds need stretch without trapping heat, and the Alwyn Home Bamboo Hypoallergenic Mattress Protector offers extra-deep pockets. These mattress protectors pair well with mattresses with cool gel technology to help warm sleepers get better rest at night.
Best Mattress Protector for Allergy Relief & Dust Mites
For allergy relief, focus on full encasements with:
- Tightly woven fabric
- A fine-tooth zipper
- A zipper garage to reduce gaps
Additionally, breathable, waterproof backings help with spills while limiting moisture buildup. If you’re very sensitive, keep the encasement on long-term and launder bedding more often during peak allergy seasons.
The AllerEase Maximum Mattress Cover wraps all six sides of your mattress and adds waterproofing. If you want a soft feel with an easy zipper, the AllerEase Cotton Fresh Waterproof Allergen Barrier pairs a comfortable top with an allergen-blocking closure.
Best Mattress Protector for Deep Mattresses & Adjustable Bases
Tall hybrids and pillow-tops need deep pockets and a stretchy skirt that grips without slipping. Look for 360-degree elastic, reinforced corners, and a listed pocket depth that is equal to or exceeds your mattress height. For adjustable bases, a flexible knit helps the cover move with the bed so it doesn’t pop loose as you raise or lower the head.
One option is the Sealy FLEX Charcoal Fitted Protector, which grips mattresses up to 18 in. thick. Need more room for a pillow-top or hybrid? The Stearns and Foster Cooling Hypoallergenic Fitted Mattress Protector fits mattresses up to 24 in. thick and flexes well on adjustable bases.
Best Mattress Protector for Kids
After finding a bed for your growing kid, you’ll need to think about how to protect their mattress. Toddler beds often benefit from a snug, waterproof design that’s easy to wash. Look for a safe, secure skirt that doesn’t bunch. The Sealy Stain Release Waterproof Crib & Toddler Pad adds a secure skirt and dryer-friendly tags.
Another pick for toddlers is the Graco Premium Waterproof Crib and Toddler Mattress Protector. It fits standard toddler bed sizes and keeps noise down for light sleepers.
Why a Mattress Protector Matters
A mattress protector keeps your bed cleaner, drier, and easier to care for, much like a couch cover for your sofa. It helps block spills, sweat, dust, and allergens while preserving the feel of your mattress.
Choose the style that fits your needs, from a simple fitted cover to a full encasement, and match the materials to your sleep temperature. Look for a breathable yet waterproof layer so you stay comfortable while your mattress stays protected.
With the right mattress protector, you’ll sleep better and extend the life of your mattress.
