Written by Julia Forbes, Lead Product Tester
When you spend a lot of money on a big investment like a mattress, you’ll want to take precautions to care for the product. If you have kids, dogs, or tend to be clumsy yourself, a mattress protector is crucial for longevity.
While many new brands come with a machine washable cover, they are rarely waterproof. A top-rated mattress protector could protect you from many potential mishaps while simultaneously adding an extra level of comfort.
However, with the market being as saturated as it is, it can be hard to know which mattress protector you should get. This is why we’ve taken it upon ourselves to break down what to look for and our top picks currently on the market.
8 Best Mattress Protectors
- Helix Waterproof Mattress Protector – Editor’s Choice
- Layla Mattress Protector – Best Customizable Mattress Protector
- Birch Waterproof Mattress Protector – Best Organic Mattress Protector
- Saatva Waterproof Mattress Protector – Best Waterproof Mattress Protector
- Brooklyn Bedding Mattress Encasement – Best Hypoallergenic Mattress Protector
- Puffy Signature Mattress Protector – Best Bamboo Mattress Protector
- Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Protect – Best Pet Resistant Mattress Protector
- Parachute Home Cotton Mattress Protector – Best Durable Mattress Protector
- Avocado Organic Crib Waterproof Protector – Best Mattress Protector for Cribs
Our Top 8 Mattress Liners, Reviewed
Editor’s Choice
Helix Mattress Protector
The Helix Waterproof Mattress Protector is marketed as completely waterproof and anti-microbial, so you shouldn’t have to worry about fluids, bacteria, and other contaminants dirtying your mattress.
Sleep Advisor Score
4.70 / 5
The Helix Waterproof Mattress Protector guards your bed against spills and allergens while canceling out many common complaints that sleepers have about these products. It doesn’t draw attention to itself by crinkling or making noise, and it stays breathable despite the toughness of its waterproof layer. Its all-around quality won it the top spot in this roundup.
The protector is easy to maintain since it’s safe to wash in a machine. Use a gentle cycle and normal household detergents, avoiding bleach and high heat. Also, you can tumble-dry, but don’t iron it. With proper care, this Helix mattress protector can last several years, protecting your bed against spills, stains, and bacteria.
What We Like
- Helix offers a 1-year warranty and a 100-night trial period for you to test the protector.
- This mattress protector is fully breathable, so it’s a good option for hot sleepers. It’s waterproof but allows maximum airflow to keep the surface cool and fresh.
Best Customizable Mattress Protector
Layla Mattress Protector
The Layla Cooling Mattress Protector is woven with fibers designed to keep you and your mattress cool. It also provides waterproof protection..
Sleep Advisor Score
4.60 / 5
Read Full Review
This Layla mattress protector is a customizable one, allowing you to choose among three types. The three types include Essential, Cooling, and Encasement Protectors. All three models start with a liquid-proof barrier that stops liquids from penetrating to your mattress while still remaining cool and breathable.
The Layla Essential protector fits beds that are up to 14 inches tall. It’s breathable, hypoallergenic, and resistant to dust mites. This makes it an excellent option for allergy-prone people. Plus, the protector is silent, so it’s good for couples as it won’t make any noise as rubber protectors do. All three models have overlocking corners for easy fitment.
What We Like
- This Layla mattress protector comes in six sizes, so it’s a good fit for all standard mattresses. All three models fit beds that are up to 14 inches tall.
- The protector comes with a 1-year warranty and a 30-night trial for consumers to test it before purchasing.
Best Organic Mattress Protector
Birch Waterproof Mattress Protector
Completely waterproof design for protection against spills and stains.
This Birch mattress protector is made of organic cotton, feeling plush and comfortable to the touch. The waterproof film between the cotton provides waterproof protection, keeping your bed safe from spills, stains, and accidents.
Cotton is a natural material that feels fresh and breathable. Plus, the cotton used in this Birch protector is GOTS certified organic, so it’s also hypoallergenic and suitable for allergy-prone people. It allows plenty of airflow, keeping the surface of the bed cool and fresh, which should benefit hot sleepers. In addition, the waterproof layer is noiseless and thin, so it won’t make any difference to how the protector feels.
What We Like
- This Birch protector features organic jersey-knit cotton to stretch and hug the sides of your mattress. Plus, it fits beds up to 16 inches tall.
- Birch offers an industry-leading trial period of 100 nights, giving consumers plenty of time to test the protector.
Best Waterproof Mattress Protector
Saatva Mattress Protector
This organic cotton mattress protector feels soft to the touch and won’t make noise under your sheets.
Sleep Advisor Score
5.00 / 5
What better way to protect your mattress than adding a waterproof mattress protector? This Saatva delivers high-quality protection, comfort, and breathability. The protector is available in seven standard sizes and fits mattresses up to 16 inches tall.
The protector features organic cotton knit that helps wick away moisture. It prevents spills from penetrating the fabric and getting to your mattress, giving you enough time to collect the liquid. Although it’s waterproof, this Saatva isn’t rubbery to touch. The protector is lightweight and comfortable, featuring high-quality silicone elastic bands to keep it in place, so it doesn’t move on the mattress.
What We Like
- The Saatva mattress protector is safe to wash in a machine using a cold, gentle cycle. You can also tumble-dry it but ensure it’s also on low heat or no heat.
- Saatva offers their customers a 45-day period to test the protector. You can return it for free during that period.
Best Hypoallergenic Mattress Protector
Brooklyn Bedding Mattress Encasement
360° degree mattress protection for a healthier night’s rest
Many mattress protectors claim to keep allergens and irritants out of your bed. But the Brooklyn Bedding Mattress Encasement does so with total coverage: true to its name, it encases your entire mattress. This design offers increased protection from allergy triggers, germs, dust mites, and bed bugs.
This encasement is also waterproof, with a laminated layer that shouldn’t emit any distracting sounds or retain a lot of heat. It’s machine washable and can be tumble-dried on a low-heat setting.
What We Like
- You can purchase this encasement in six standard mattress sizes, including twin XL.
- With a top made of quilted terry cloth, this encasement looks and feels comfortable beneath your fitted sheet.
Best Bamboo Mattress Protector
Puffy Signature Mattress Protector
The Puffy Signature Mattress Protector is an eco-friendly, hypoallergenic option that provides waterproof protection and a tight fit to almost any mattress.
The Puffy Signature Mattress Protector stays pleasantly cool thanks to its bamboo rayon cover, which permits airflow while also defending your mattress from damage. This waterproof protector prevents liquid from seeping through, but doesn’t sound or feel crinkly when positioned under your fitted sheet.
This protector is also OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 Certified, meaning it’s been tested for the presence of hundreds of harmful substances and cleared for safe use. It’s machine washable, and won’t lose its waterproof properties after cleaning.
What We Like
- Puffy allows customers to sleep with this mattress protector for 101 nights as part of their standard sleep trial period. If you decide it’s not for you, you’ll be able to return it for a full refund.
Best Pet Resistant Mattress Protector
Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Protect Mattress Protector
The TEMPUR-Protect is waterproof and uses cooling ThermalSense fabric, making it a great option all-around for those looking for a mattress protector.
Anyone who sleeps with pets knows there’s a risk of accidents, spills, and other things that can ruin a mattress. For this reason, having a waterproof and stain-resistant mattress protector is a good option to prolong the life of your bed. The Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Protect is waterproof and designed with the company’s ThermalSense® fabric that protects against stains by trapping liquids.
The protector is highly stretchy, which makes it easy to use on mattresses up to 16 inches tall. The lowest beds must be at least 8 inches tall for the protector to fit.
What We Like
- This mattress protector is lightweight and breathable, so it won’t contribute to heat build-up. In addition, the ThermalSense® fabric is temperature-balancing, which means it won’t take away from your bed’s cooling properties.
- The TEMPUR-Protect is safe to wash in a machine. You can also tumble dry it but using only low heat.
Best Durable Mattress Protector
Parachute Home Cotton Mattress Protector
Protect your mattress with this naturally breathable, 100% cotton layer. Featuring a box quilted top stuffed with pure cotton
This Parachute Home mattress protector is made entirely from cotton. The protector has a box-quilted top along with a cambric skirt and is filled with cotton for a plush and gentle feel. There’s also an elastic hem that makes it easy to fit mattresses up to 16 inches tall.
The protector is soft and comfortable but won’t change the way your mattress feels. The fabric has protective properties thanks to its cambric weave that’s tight and helps to keep the liquids away. In addition, the weave also adds to its overall durability, making this a good option if you’re after a protector that’ll last for years.
What We Like
- The company accepts returns within 60 days from the date of the purchase. If you decide you don’t like the protector within this period, you can return it for a full refund. They ship to the US, including Alaska and Hawaii.
Best Mattress Protector for Cribs
Avocado Organic Crib Waterproof Protector
Organic Waterproof Crib Protector Pad is the ideal barrier to defend your little one’s crib mattress — both safe and dependable.
This Avocado mattress protector is made specifically for the youngest ones. It features natural, organic materials, offering both safe and dependable performance. The construction features two cotton layers with polyurethane film standing between them for waterproof protection.
The cotton in this protector is GOTS organic certified, so you can be sure it’s safe to use in the crib. In addition, it features no chemicals or toxic materials. The polyurethane film is thin and noiseless, so it won’t sound like plastic or rubber when your baby moves. Plus, the entire protector is breathable to avoid sweaty backs and overheating regardless of the type of mattress it’s paired with.
What We Like
- Avocado offers a 100-night trial period to test the protector before purchasing. This should give consumers time to decide whether they’re happy with how it feels and performs.
- Avocado makes this protector intentionally big because it usually shrinks after washing. It’s safe to wash in a machine using eco-conscious detergent.
What to Look For in a Mattress Protector
Materials & Waterproof Protection
The first thing that you ought to account for when picking your mattress protector is the fabric that it’s made out of. Usually, these protectors are tailored with soft, comfortable materials. The following are examples of some materials you may find in liners:
- Down
- Spandex
- Polyester
- Cotton
Most mattress protectors will also feature some effective waterproof protection. The majority of covers are made with polyurethane to create a waterproof barrier.
Durability
Considering that mattress protectors are often placed on beds to help extend the life of the mattress, the durability of the materials is important. Although these bed coverings can be a cost-effective addition to your sleeping environment, you will still want to get your money’s worth.
Mattress protectors will need to be washed, and while it is generally recommended to do so every one to two months, you will want a protector that can withstand these washings. Spandex, polyester, and cotton can often offer longevity, whereas down can be soft and comforting but may not be as durable.
Cooling
Not every product has cooling capabilities, so it is important to keep that in mind if that is a priority for you.
Some of the cooling protectors may focus more on moisture-wicking to help sleepers stay cool and dry. The product information should highlight if the protector is specifically geared towards cooling.
Bed Bug Protection
Now, liners usually only come with one additional layer of protection, which is usually focused on waterproofing. If you want to get something that would also prevent bed bugs from entering the mattress, you should get a full mattress encasement rather than a regular mattress protector as it would do a better job.
Budget
Mattress protectors are significantly less than a new mattress, but you probably still want a good deal regardless. Fortunately, when it comes to mattress protectors, you can find them in a variety of price ranges.
The cost of a mattress protector is largely affected by the features that it offers, as well as the materials If you select a protector that has cooling properties, it will likely cost more than a basic model.
Trial & Warranty
Many mattress protectors, particularly the ones made with high-end materials, come with warranties and trial periods. These typically range from 30-45 days for the trial and one year for the warranty. However, some protectors have neither a sleep trial nor a warranty.
If you are unsure of the kind of mattress protector that you want, make sure that you consider protectors that come with a trial period so you at least have the option to return it in the event it doesn’t work out. Warranties, especially those that extend to 10 years or even a lifetime, can provide peace of mind once you have purchased a product.
Size
How large should your protector be? This is something that a lot of people tend to wonder about. It’s important to understand that there is a difference between a mattress protector and a cover. While the latter is intended to lay conveniently on the mattress, the former needs to at least fit over the mattress’ corners like a fitted sheet.
The size of your protector would usually depend on the type of bed that you have. There are different sizes available, and you can buy one that envelops the entire mattress or one that covers it half the way to the sides. This depends on the level of protection that you desire.
Typically, those that envelope the entire bed provide full protection.
Benefits of Owning a Mattress Protector
Allergy Relief
Allergies have a serious impact on the way you sleep. If you have the convenience of a mattress protector that is made out of hypoallergenic materials, this could help you sleep better since you’re less likely to experience allergy symptoms.
See Also: Best Hypoallergenic Mattresses
Bed Bug Protection
A full liner or mattress encasement could be a helpful solution for bed bugs. There are some mattress protectors that come with a zipper lock and bug flaps, which are designed to seal your entire mattress closely. This is also a great way to protect your mattress from dust mites and other common allergens.
Protects Against Accidents & Spills
One of the biggest challenges for a mattress is to remain stainless, especially if you have kids. When children play around the bed, they may spill, though this can happen with adults just the same if they have coffee in bed, for example. With kids, bedwetting may also be an issue and this could affect the mattress.
A waterproof mattress protector can safeguard your mattress against these types of accidents and spills.
Best Mattress Protector FAQs
Why do you need a mattress protector?
Mattress protectors serve several purposes. They are a great way to keep your mattress clean, which can extend the lifespan of your bed. Humans sweat, produce oil, and shed dead skin cells during the night, and all of these can soak through your sheets and onto your mattress. Additionally, protectors can provide a waterproof barrier for when nighttime accidents or spills occur. Mattresses, especially the best luxury mattresses, can cost thousands so protection is very important.
Mattress protectors can also add a layer of protection from dust mites and other allergens. Dust mites thrive on dead skin cells that can reside on your mattress, and a washable protector can keep them at bay. Furthermore, mattress protectors can help keep warranties intact. Warranties may be voided by stains or spills, but a bed protector can keep many stains at bay.
How do I clean my mattress protector?
The exact cleaning instructions will vary among brands, though each manufacturer should provide detailed care steps. In general, though, you should be able to spot clean most smaller stains and machine wash the protector using a delicate detergent for a more thorough cleaning. It is typically best to let your protector air dry to avoid damaging the materials.
What is the difference between a mattress protector and a mattress pad?
A mattress protector is typically a thin piece of fabric, not much thicker than a sheet, that safeguards your mattress from stains, spills, or allergens. Many protectors are waterproof, though some may incorporate cooling fabrics as well.
On the other hand, mattress pads are often used to make a bed slightly softer or firmer, while also providing a bit of protection for the mattress. They are made from a variety of materials, including some foam options made with memory foam or latex. Mattress pads are typically more expensive than mattress protectors but less expensive than a new bed.
How long does a mattress protector last?
The exact life span of a mattress protector is dependent on the quality of the materials used and how often the bed that it is protecting is used. However, on average, you can expect a mattress protector to last 2-3 years.
Do bed liners help keep your mattress clean?
Bed liners help keep the surface of your mattress clean but fail to do a good job everywhere else. A fully encompassing breathable mattress liner, however, could easily provide you with added protection.
How much longer can your bed last with a liner?
Great bed covers are capable of prolonging the life of your mattress. You are looking at a few years at the very least, given the fact that you’d have to wash it less, which can reduce wear.
Are covers and mattress protectors the same thing?
While all mattresses come with a cover to encase the inner materials, these are often sewn on. Some are removable and can be machine-washed. However, mattress protectors, which are sometimes also referred to as mattress covers, are usually placed on top of the mattress covering that comes with the bed.
These are often thin and sheet-like and are meant to protect the mattress from stains and wear and sometimes the sleeper from allergies. These are both different from a mattress topper, which is thick and is made to offer additional cushion or comfort.
Our Final Thoughts
Having a mattress protector/liner can extend the lifespan of your bed and enhance your sleeping experience. A protector provides a defense against stains, spills, and allergens like dust mites. They can even be a useful solution for bed bugs.
We hope that the information above, including the protectors we’ve reviewed and featured, will help you pick the best mattress protector for you and your family.
Julia Forbes
Lead Product Tester
About Author
Julia is the Lead Reviewer at Sleep Advisor, specializing in testing out mattresses and sleep accessories – she’s in the right line of work, because she loves to sleep.
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