Best mattress protector 2024: waterproof, cooling and zipped covers compared

The best way to prolong the life of your mattress is to ensure you use one of the best mattress protectors from day one. The best mattress protector will safeguard your mattress from liquid spills, as well as forming a protective barrier against irksome allergens like dust mites.  

 

From waterproof mattress protectors that keep your mattress fresh in the face of little accidents, hypoallergenic mattress protectors that soothe and alleviate allergy symptoms, to fully zippered mattress encasements that keep bed bugs locked out, there are many different mattress protectors available to suit your specific sleep needs. There are even mattress protectors that boast the very latest in cooling technology, helping to regulate temperatures and keep hot sleepers cool.

As well as performance, we’ve also considered other important aspects such as budget, washing instructions and ease of use when curating this guide. However, as comfort levels can dictate our sleep quality, comfort remains our top priority. "Listening to your body and understanding how much restorative rest you need to feel energized is key to understanding your sleep-wake cycle," explains Dr Nerina Ramlakhan, sleep expert and author of Finding Inner Safety. "Deep, nourishing sleep that is restorative and healing is what we should be aiming for."

So to ensure a great night's sleep, we've selected the best mattress protectors to suit every sleep position, lifestyle and budget.

The quick list

Here’s the best mattress protectors you can buy right now based on our comprehensive online research. Scroll on for our full in-depth reviews. 

The best mattress protectors in 2023 

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Best overall

Best mattress protector: The Purple Mattress Protector in white, shown next to the white, purple and green packaging it arrives in

(Image credit: Purple)

1. Purple Mattress Protector

The best mattress protector overall - it's stain-resistant too

Specifications

Type: Mattress protector
Waterproof: Yes
Depth: Up to 15 inches
Colors: Grey, white, oat, purple, lilac, morning mist
Material: Polyester, spandex
Sizes: 7 (twin - split king)
Trial: 30 days
Warranty: 10 years
RRP: $79-$158

Reasons to buy

+
Fits mattresses up to 15"
+
Water- and stain-resistant
+
Dust mite and dander barrier

Reasons to avoid

-
Some say it's noisy in use

Our top pick of the best mattress protectors is Purple. Here the leading mattress maker has thrown its expertise into creating a dual-layer mattress cover that safeguards against spills, dust mites and stains. A water-resistant inner layer prevents wetness from soaking through, while an absorbent outer layer dissipates liquid (including urine) so that it doesn't puddle.  

The five-sided Purple Mattress Protector covers everything apart from the underneath of your mattress and is designed to be stain-resistant, as well as machine washable.

You can buy it in seven different sizes, from twin to split king, and several different colors. We often see it pop up among the Purple mattress sales too, so you can usually save a few dollars on the price tag.

In terms of users reviews, the Purple Mattress Protector has a rating 4.4 out of 5 stars on Purple, and 4.6 out of 5 stars on Amazon. While there's lots of praise for the high levels of protection against spills and stains, a few users have said that despite Purple saying the fabric is quiet in use, theirs was noisy.

Purple's offering is one of the most expensive options in our guide, but if you want best mattress protector bar none, and one that's designed by a top-rated mattress in a box brand and that's covered with a 10-year warranty, here it is. 

Purple Mattress Protector: From $79 at Purple

Purple Mattress Protector: <a href="https://purple.pxf.io/c/221109/454867/8120?subId1=hawk-custom-tracking&sharedId=hawk&u=https%3A%2F%2Fpurple.com%2Fmattress-protector" data-link-merchant="purple.com"" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">From $79 at Purple
If you purchase your mattress protector <a href="https://purple.pxf.io/c/221109/454867/8120?subId1=hawk-custom-tracking&sharedId=hawk&u=https%3A%2F%2Fpurple.com%2Fmattress-protector" data-link-merchant="purple.com"" data-link-merchant="purple.com"" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">directly from Purple, you will pay full MSRP. However, if you're intending to buy sheets also, then you can save a very healthy 25%. However, it is also worth keeping an eye on Amazon, who occasionally drop prices of the popular <a href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=45724&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com%2FPurple-The-Mattress-Protector-Full%2Fdp%2FB01MYMRRXE%2Fref%3Dasc_df_B01N74VKRT%2F%3FlinkCode%3Ddf0%26hvadid%3D231330962040%26hvpos%3D%26hvnetw%3Dg%26hvrand%3D12344737145577815092%26hvpone%3D%26hvptwo%3D%26hvqmt%3D%26hvdev%3Dc%26hvdvcmdl%3D%26hvlocint%3D%26hvlocphy%3D2840%26hvtargid%3Dpla-391687985501%26mcid%3D4fba98e859423489834917ae109be8f2%26gclid%3DCjwKCAiA7t6sBhAiEiwAsaieYkKZTzCYC26ga5J8OVC3bKvsflHVsE8pf5jPk6h15sCJLD3v5IM53RoC0o4QAvD_BwE%26th%3D1%26tag%3Dhawk-future-20%26ascsubtag%3Dhawk-custom-tracking-20" data-link-merchant="Amazon US"" data-link-merchant="purple.com"" data-link-merchant="purple.com"" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Purple Mattress Protector by 15%, which brings the price of a queen down to $84.15 instead of $99. 

Best waterproof

Best mattress protectors: the Coop Home Goods Mattress Protector shown in off-white

(Image credit: Coop Home)

2. Coop Home Goods Mattress Protector

The best waterproof mattress protector

Specifications

Waterproof: Yes
Depth: Up to 18 inches
Colors: White
Material: Polyester, rayon, polyurethane
Sizes: 6 (twin - Cal king)
Trial: 100 nights
Warranty: 5 years
RRP: $35.99-$54.99

Reasons to buy

+
Excellent waterproofing
+
Hypoallergenic materials
+
100-night risk-free trial

Reasons to avoid

-
No smaller sizes for infant beds

Such is the trust in the Coop Home Goods Mattress Protector that the brand conducted an experiment pouring five gallons of apple juice onto it and not a drop got through. So if you’re looking for the best waterproof mattress protector yet can't stretch to the Purple Mattress Protector above, then this is the one for you. 

If you’re a hot sleeper, or you're experiencing hot flashes or night sweats, a waterproof mattress protector such as this is a must. That's because sweat can stain your mattress (and pillows), especially if it builds up over a sustained period of time and you don't clean your mattress. 

The Coop Home Goods Mattress Protector is created with the company’s own Lulltra fabric, which is breathable, soft and silent, and has a durable waterproof membrane to protect against spills and sweat. It’s machine washable too, making laundry day a breeze. You also get a 100 nights to try it out, which is generous for a mattress cover.

Coop Home Goods Ultra Luxe Waterproof Mattress ProtectorFrom $46 at Coop Sleep Goods

Coop Home Goods Ultra Luxe Waterproof Mattress Protector: <a href="https://coop-home-goods.pxf.io/c/221109/1335433/16145?subId1=hawk-custom-tracking&sharedId=hawk&u=https%3A%2F%2Fcoopsleepgoods.com%2Fproducts%2Fultra-luxe-waterproof-mattress-protector" data-link-merchant="coopsleepgoods.com"" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">From $46 at Coop Sleep Goods
Prices start at $46 for the Coop Home Goods Ultra Luxe Waterproof Mattress Protector, while a queen size will cost $59. While we're always looking for the best deal possible, this remains an excellent price on a well-made product - especially when you take into consideration the 100 night sleep trial. 

Best for hot sleepers

Best mattress protectors: image shows the Brooklyn Bedding mattress protector in white

(Image credit: Brooklyn Bedding)

3. Brooklyn Bedding Cooling Mattress Protector

The best mattress protector for hot sleepers

Specifications

Waterproof: Yes
Depth: Up to 14 inches
Colors: White
Material: Polyester, TitanCool, Polyurethane
Sizes: 6 (twin - Cal king)
Trial: 30 days
Warranty: 10 years
RRP: $99-$149

Reasons to buy

+
Breathable TitanCool fabric
+
Hypoallergenic
+
Luxury comfort

Reasons to avoid

-
Not the best with flat sheets

The Brooklyn Bedding Luxury Cooling mattress protector isn't just a premium protector, it's designed to help your mattress feel cooler to the touch. This is handy if you find your mattress to be a little on the warm side, though don't go expecting a miraculous cooling effect as you would get with a proper cooling mattress or topper. 

Made from breathable TitanCool fabric, the Brooklyn Bedding Cooling Mattress Protector draws heat away from your body, stopping it from building up under the sheets while you sleep. The material is also water-resistant to protect your mattress against spills, plus its hypoallergenic to safeguard against bacteria and dust mites. 

This luxury mattress protector has an average score of 4.7 out of 5 from over 460 user reviews on the Brooklyn Bedding website. Like the Purple Mattress Protector, it's one of the more expensive mattress protectors in our guide, but if you want to keep your bed clean and cool at the same time, we think it's worth the investment. There's also a 30-day return period if you decide it isn't right for your bed.  

The Brooklyn Bedding Luxury Cooling mattress protector$99$73.40 at Brooklyn Bedding

The Brooklyn Bedding Luxury Cooling mattress protector: <a href="https://brooklynbedding.pxf.io/c/221109/1172830/14792?subId1=hawk-custom-tracking&sharedId=hawk&u=https%3A%2F%2Fbrooklynbedding.com%2Fproducts%2Fluxury-cooling-mattress-protector%2Ftwin" data-link-merchant="brooklynbedding.com"" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">From $99 $73.40 at Brooklyn Bedding
There's a site-wide 25% off sale over at Brooklyn Bedding, which brings the cost of a queen size Brooklyn Bedding Luxury Cooling mattress protector down to $96.80 from $129. This is an evergreen sale that we're used to seeing from Brooklyn Bedding, but it' still an excellent price.  

Best thickness

Best mattress protectors: The Nectar Mattress Protector, in white, shown folded up neatly

(Image credit: Nectar Sleep)

4. Nectar Mattress Protector

A thick, quilted mattress cover from a top-rated sleep brand

Specifications

Waterproof: Yes
Depth: Up to 22 inches
Colors: White
Material: Cotton
Sizes: 6 (twin - Cal king)
Trial: 100 nights
Warranty: 5 years
RRP: $99

Reasons to buy

+
Fits taller mattresses
+
Waterproof design
+
Soft-touch quilted cover

Reasons to avoid

-
Expensive in the smaller sizes

Not only is the Nectar Mattress Protector designed to safeguard your bed from spills, stains and allergens, it can also boost your in-bed comfort a little, putting it someway between a mattress cover and a thin mattress pad. 

The stretchy, non-slip design will fit mattresses up to 22 inches tall, and is easy to wash – simply machine wash and tumble dry on a low setting to freshen it up. Other perks include a five-year warranty, free shipping and returns, and a 50-night trial. 

No matter what size you choose, the waterproof Nectar Mattress Protector is a straight $99 – great if you’re after a Cal King, but it seems a tad unfair if you're just buying for a twin size bed. However, if you factor in the comfort on offer, then you might not mind paying a little extra for the smaller sizes when you can get a mattress cover with a padded cotton top for extra plushness.

Nectar Mattress Protector:

Nectar Mattress Protector: From <a href="https://nectar.xovt.net/c/221109/473932/8338?subId1=hawk-custom-tracking&sharedId=hawk&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nectarsleep.com%2Fmattress-protector" data-link-merchant="nectarsleep.com"" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">$99 from Nectar
Regardless of whether you're buying a twin or cal king size mattress protector, the price remains $99 when you purchase directly from Nectar. While there's currently up to 40% off Nectar mattresses, unfortunately that saving doesn't extend to their best-selling mattress protector. It's still excellent value, especially if you're buying for a bigger bed (it's less of a steal for those looking to buy a twin size). 

Best for bedwetters

Best mattress protector: the SafeRest Premium Hypoallergenic Waterproof Mattress Protector shown in all-white

(Image credit: SafeRest)

5. SafeRest Waterproof Mattress Protector

The best mattress protector for bedwetting

Specifications

Waterproof: Yes
Depth: 18 inches
Material: Cotton terry
Warranty: 10 years
Sizes: 6 (twin - Cal King)

Reasons to buy

+
Hypoallergenic material
+
Waterproof design
+
Protects against dust mites

Reasons to avoid

-
Material wrinkles easily

If you're an allergy sufferer, you'll need a hypoallergenic mattress protector designed to keep dust and particles from escaping your mattress whenever you sleep on it, and to prevent allergens from getting into your mattress. The SafeRest Premium Hypoallergenic Waterproof Mattress Protector is designed to do exactly that, and has a user review score of 4.6 out of 5 on Amazon. 

This is also one of the cheapest options in our guide, yet it still comes in a good range of sizes. So, what are the benefits? SafeRest's mattress cover offers protection against sweat, urine, spillages, dust mites and general stains. Though if you want the best mattress protector for bedwetting, look at the Purple cover at the top.

Like the other options in this guide, the SafeRest Premium Hypoallergenic Waterproof Mattress Protector is fully machine washable and dryable, so you can turn it around very quickly on laundry day.

SafeRest Waterproof Mattress Protector:$42.99 $27.40 at Walmart

SafeRest Waterproof Mattress Protector: <a href="https://goto.walmart.com/c/1943169/565706/9383?subId1=hawk-custom-tracking&sharedId=hawk&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FSafeRest-Waterproof-Fitted-Cotton-Terry-Mattress-Encasement-Queen%2F117456710" data-link-merchant="walmart.com"" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">From $42.99 $27.40 at Walmart
Prices start on this best-selling mattress protector at $36.99 for a twin at full MSRP. However, there is a 15% price drop on a queen, which brings the price down to $27.40 from $42.99.  Not only is this a great price, it's rare to ever to see the queen size protector in stock - buy now while you still can. 

Best eco-friendly

Best mattress protectors: the Utopia Bedding Premium Bamboo shown on top of a white mattress

(Image credit: Utopia Bedding)

6. Utopia Bedding Bamboo Mattress Protector

The best eco-friendly mattress protector

Specifications

Waterproof: Yes
Depth: 15 inches
Material: Bamboo
Sizes: 5 (twin - Cal king)

Reasons to buy

+
Slightly cushioned top
+
Cool and breathable
+
Eco-friendly materials

Reasons to avoid

-
Can't be ironed

If you're looking for an eco-friendly mattress protector to go with your organic mattress, try this 340gsm Utopia Bedding Premium Bamboo cover. It has a very slightly cushioned top, meaning it isn't as thick as a mattress pad and certainly not as plush as a proper bed topper, but it will add in a little extra comfort. 

Like other waterproof mattress covers in the guide, this one has a TPU to protect the top of the mattress - so the sides won't have the same waterproofing. It will help to protect against sweat stains, body oils and other moisture, and because bamboo is naturally breathable it won't collect heat either. 

If you prefer mattress protectors without thick elasticated bands, you'll love the design of the Utopia Bedding Premium Bamboo cover. That's because it opts for a Smooth Grip Skirt System, infused with elastic so that you can simply pull the borders of the pockets down to make it stretch over the mattress. 

Utopia Bedding Bamboo Mattress Protector: $29.99

Utopia Bedding Bamboo Mattress Protector: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01E02DU6E?tag=georiot-us-default-20&th=1&ascsubtag=hawk-custom-tracking-20&geniuslink=true" data-link-merchant="amazon.com"" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">From $29.99 $14.99 at Amazon
Prices start at just $14.99 for a twin size Utopia Bedding Bamboo mattress protector from Amazon, thanks to 50% off sale. However, there's only a 5% saving on a queen size protector, which brings the price down fractionally to $17.99 from $18.99. Still, this is a great price for an eco-friendly product with overwhelmingly positive consumer reviews. 

Best for deeper memory foam

Best mattress protectors: The Tuft & Needle Mattress Protector in white

(Image credit: Tuft & Needle)

7. Tuft & Needle Mattress Protector

A great mattress protector for deeper memory foam mattresses

Specifications

Waterproof: Yes
Depth: Up to 14 inches
Colors: White
Material: polyester, nylon, polyurethane
Sizes: 6 (twin - Cal king)
Trial: 100 nights
Warranty: 2 year limited
RRP: $50-$90

Reasons to buy

+
Waterproof protection
+
100-night risk-free trial
+
Machine washable

Budget mattress manufacturer Tuft & Needle has a good reputation when it comes to its mattresses and bedding, and the same levels of care can be found with its mattress protector. The Tuft & Needle is designed to be rustle-free and easy to care for – simply machine wash on a cold setting, then line dry or tumble dry with no heat. 

Waterproofing is taken care of via a polyurethane film, so you can rest a little easier knowing your mattress will be better protected from accidental spills. The Tuft & Needle mattress protector is easy to attach to your bed in the same way you would a fitted sheet, and is suitable for mattresses up to 14 inches deep. 

It’s worth keeping an eye out on the Tuft & Needle site for deals on this mattress protector, as it is slightly more expensive than some others. You do however, get free shipping, a two-year warranty and a generous risk-free 100-night trial.

Tuft &amp; Needle Mattress Protector: From $80 $68 Tuft &amp; Needle

Tuft & Needle Mattress Protector: <a href="https://tuftandneedle.attfm2.net/c/221109/662499/10403?subId1=hawk-custom-tracking&sharedId=hawk&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tuftandneedle.com%2Fproducts%2Fmattress-protector" data-link-merchant="tuftandneedle.com"" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">From $80 $68 Tuft & Needle
Luxury mattress brand Tuft & Needle are renowned for their quality products - as well as their conservative mattress deals. However, a daylight savings sale means that a queen size mattress protector is $76.50 from $90. 

Best for allergies

Best mattress protectors: the SureGuard Mattress Protector in white, kept inside its packaging

(Image credit: SureGuard)

8. SureGuard Mattress Protector

The best mattress protector for dust mites and allergies

Specifications

Waterproof: Yes
Depth: Up to 20"
Colors: White
Material: Terry cotton
Sizes: 9: Mini crib - Cal king
Trial: n/a
Warranty: 10 years

Reasons to buy

+
Good range of sizes
+
Protects against dust mites
+
Large range of sizes

Reasons to avoid

-
Not the most durable material

This terry cotton mattress protector might feel soft, but it's tough when it comes to protecting your mattress against allergens, moisture, dust mites and bacteria. The SureGuard Mattress Protector is easy to clean in the washing machine and can be gently tumble-dried. That said, if you suffer from allergies then air-drying in the sun for at least four hours is recommended to properly kill dust mites. 

For the low price, there's plenty to like about the SureGuard Mattress Protector. It fits in the same way as a fitted sheet does, and can be used with most standard size mattresses. If you have an extra deep bed, this one is available in a range of depths up to 20". 

Sizes start from a mini crib size and because it’s designed to be noiseless, your little one shouldn’t be woken up by the sound of it rustling beneath them when they move around.

SureGuard Mattress Protector: $49.95 $29.97 at Amazon

SureGuard Mattress Protector: <a href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=45724&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com%2FSureGuard-Mattress-Protectors-Full-Size%2Fdp%2FB00EJOYNHO%3Fth%3D1%26tag%3Dhawk-future-20%26ascsubtag%3Dhawk-custom-tracking-20" data-link-merchant="Amazon US"" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">From $49.95 $29.97 at Amazon
Discounts range between no savings to 40% off the SureGuard Mattress Protector over at Amazon, which brings the price of a queen down to $44.97 from $69.95. It's still a little on the pricier side for a mattress protector, but remains great value for a premium 100% terry cotton product. 

Best for bed bugs

Best mattress protector: the Linenspa mattress protector in bright white

(Image credit: Linenspa)

9. Linenspa Zipped Waterproof Mattress Encasement

The best zipped mattress protector for bed bugs

Specifications

Waterproof: Yes
Depth: 12 inches
Material: Polyester/Polyurethane
Sizes: 5 (twin - Cal King)
Trial: N/A
Warranty: 10 years

Reasons to buy

+
Affordable
+
Non-allergenic
+
Resistant to bed bugs 

Reasons to avoid

-
Polyester feels quite cheap

Looking for a mattress protector for bed bug protection - and one that doesn't cost the earth? If you're on a tight budget and dealing with bed bugs, then the Linenspa Zipped Waterproof Mattress Encasement is the best choice for you. It's available in a variety of sizes and is designed to fully encase you entire mattress, zipping closed to provide maximum protection. 

Linenspa's zipped mattress protector is popular on Amazon, with user reviews stating how it provides good quality protection, especially if you suffer from allergies, and at a reasonable price.

It's worth nothing that this cover can only cater for mattresses up to 12 inches deep, so if you own a deeper mattress, the Linenspa Zipped Waterproof Mattress won't be suitable for you. Otherwise, this is a good budget option that gives solid, basic protection without the high price tag.

Linenspa Zipped Waterproof Mattress Encasement:$19.99 $17.99 at Linenspa

Linenspa Zipped Waterproof Mattress Encasement: <a href="https://linenspa.com/premium-encasement-mattress-protector/" data-link-merchant="linenspa.com"" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">From $19.99 $17.99 at Linenspa
Interest in fully zippered mattress encasements has soared since the bed bug outbreak of 2023, but the Linenspa remains an affordable protection barrier against a <a href="https://www.tomsguide.com/news/ask-the-expert-will-vacuuming-my-mattress-get-rid-of-bed-bugs" data-link-merchant="tomsguide.com"" data-link-merchant="linenspa.com"">bed bug mattress infestation. A queen size mattress protector is $22.99 from $24.99, which is a great price on such a quality product that brings peace of mind. 

Best for guest beds

Best mattress protectors: image shows a person pulling the Utopia Bedding Waterproof Mattress Protector down onto one corner of a bed

(Image credit: Utopia Bedding)

10. Utopia Bedding Waterproof Mattress Protector

An affordable cotton mattress protector for guest beds

Specifications

Waterproof: Yes
Depth: Up to 13 inches
Material: Polyester/cotton blend
Sizes: 6 (twin - Cal King)
RRP: $11.99 - $14.99

Reasons to buy

+
Excellent price
+
Useful elasticated design
+
Machine washable

Reasons to avoid

-
Some say it's less effective over time

If you're on a very tight budget but need a reliable mattress protector to keep your guest room mattress safe from stains, spills, smells and germs, then the Utopia Bedding Waterproof Mattress Protector will do the job. There's nothing fancy about this – it's about as basic as mattress protectors get – but it does offer a layer of protection and is simple to use thanks to elasticated straps that anchor it in place.

This Utopia Bedding mattress protector is made from a poly-cotton blend and offers a degree of protection from spillages and urine. We'd recommend it for guest rooms beds that see occasional use, but if you have an expensive mattress, pick the Purple mattress cover instead as it gives robust protection. If you need a high-performing waterproof mattress protector, look at the Coop Home Goods option. 

Some user reviews state that it stops working so hard after repeated washes, which is definitely something to keep in mind if you are putting this on your main bed. But if all you need is a budget mattress protector for occasional use on your guest bed, and without breaking the bank, that's exactly what you'll get here.

Utopia Bedding Waterproof Mattress Protector:$12.99 at Amazon

Utopia Bedding Waterproof Mattress Protector: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00MRH9NCK?tag=georiot-us-default-20&ascsubtag=hawk-custom-tracking-20&geniuslink=true&th=1" data-link-merchant="amazon.com"" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">From $12.99 at Amazon
Unless you're planning on buying these mattress protectors in bulk (in which case you can save up to 52% when buying a carton of 14 protectors), you can buy them at full MSRP at Amazon. Shipping is free and fast, and you'll find an impressive range of sizes, including RV and sleeper sofa queen.  

What is the best mattress protector in 2022?

From our research, the best mattress protector you can buy is the Purple Mattress Protector. Priced from $79 at Purple, this stain-resistant and waterproof protector will keep your mattress safer from stains and spills for longer. The biggest draw with this one is how it doesn't let liquid puddle, which is why you'll often see it recommended for use in situations where bedwetting might happen.

For smaller budgets we’d recommend the SafeRest Hypoallergenic Waterproof Mattress Protector, priced from $27.99 at Amazon. This cheaper option may not have all the trimmings offered by the Purple, but it will still keep dust and particles from escaping your mattress during sleep, and it offers a basic level of protection that's suitable for most scenarios.

How to choose

How to choose the best mattress protector

When choosing the best mattress protector for you, think about the biggest issues your mattress is likely to face. For example, are you buying a protector for a toddler's bed, or perhaps you have a couple of dogs that can't help but leap on right after a muddy walk? In that case the best option is a waterproof and stain-resistant mattress protector that can be machine washed for ease.

If you sleep hot and don't want to add any extra bedding or covers to your mattress that might hold heat, then choose a cooling mattress protector. These basically opt for breathable materials that help to dissipate excess heat, rather than storing it inside the fabric. Tencel and bamboo are excellent materials for this job, though the former can be more expensive.

For guest bed use only, you could get away with choosing a budget mattress protector. That's because they will only see occasional use so they don't need to be as hard-working as a mattress protector placed on your main bed.

A little boy and his white dog sit on a kids mattress covered with a white Tuft & Needle mattress protector

(Image credit: Tuft & Needle)

How to wash a mattress protector

We have a guide to how to wash a mattress protector, but here's a quick version. Mattress protectors should be washed every two months on average, but this changes depending on how often you use your mattress protector, whether you have been sick, and if you have allergies. Let’s take a closer look at these scenarios now to help you decide if it’s time to pop yours in the wash.

If you have allergies, aim to wash your mattress protector once or twice a month. This may seem like a lot of laundry, but it will help prevent allergens from building up inside your protector. 

If you have been ill, wash your mattress protector as soon as you feel better to banish any remaining bugs from sneezes, coughs and other mucus. 

If you have spilled drinks or food, spot clean the worst of it, then pop your mattress protector in the wash. Don’t let that stain sink in!

Guest bedroom mattress protectors can be left a little longer, unless you have had a long-term guest staying with you. 

Mattress protectors should be washed and dried as per the manufacturer’s instructions on the care label. Using a mild detergent is best, and avoid using bleach or any other chemicals that will damage the protector.

If you find yourself asking why has my pillow turned yellow, you can actually get protectors for your pillows as well. Plus, a mattress protector can help avoid these 7 mattress care mistakes you’re making right now

When is the best time to buy a mattress protector?

The reality is that discounts crop up all year round on mattress protectors, though there are certain times of year where the savings are often a little higher than usual. These include the Labor Day mattress sales in September, and of course the Black Friday mattress deals.

It's worth remembering that many mattress in a box manufacturers throw in a free mattress protector when you buy a new mattress, so you may not need to pay for one if you are upgrading your bed. 

Generally speaking, there are normally mattress sales running throughout the year, not to mention bedding sales at various in-store and online retailers, so you're never far from a discount.

Read more:

Nicola Appleton
Sleep Features Editor

Nicola Appleton is Sleep Features Editor at Tom’s Guide, specialising in quality news content surrounding sleep and wellbeing. Nicola cut her teeth as a journalist in a busy newsroom in Bristol, UK, 15 years ago as part of a team at Britain's largest independent press agency. Since then, her job as a journalist has taken her to the States, to Sydney, and then back to Blighty, where she has written and edited features for a whole host of prominent British and international brands, including  The Independent, The Sydney Morning Herald, HuffPost, Refinery29, Stylist and more. As well as tackling the vast topic of sleep, Nicola will be joining the raft of expert mattress reviewers at Tom's Guide, helping steer readers towards the very best mattresses on the market.