1. US mattress protectors
2. UK mattress protectors
Mattress protector info
One of the best mattress protectors is an absolute must-have if you want to keep your bed in top condition for longer. If you've decided to treat yourself to one of the best mattresses then you'll want to safeguard your investment against the worst that life can throw at it, and a quality mattress protector will do just that.
Mattress protectors can keep spills and stains off your mattress, as well as acting as a barrier against germs, allergens and dust mites. Most mattress protectors fit around the top and sides of your mattress, although if you want total protection you can also get full encasements that cover the entire mattress and keep out pretty much everything, including bed bugs.
We've picked out the best mattress protectors in both the US and UK, with options for all needs and budgets. You'll find everything from cheap mattress protectors for basic protection, through to waterproof protectors to guard against spills, stains and sweats, cooling covers to regulate temperatures at night, and full encasements for ultimate protection.
We've arranged things so that you can quickly find the best option for you and click straight through to buy it. For more ways to upgrade your sleep setup, read our guide to the best mattress toppers, and if you're not sure whether you need a topper or a mattress pad, our mattress pad vs mattress topper guide will explain the differences. For now, here are the the best mattress protectors you can buy in 2024...
The best mattress protectors US
Waterproof: Yes
Washable: Yes, cold
Fits up to: 18"
The Coop Home Goods Ultra Luxe Mattress Protector is made with OEKO-TEX certified materials, meaning you’ll find no toxic elements in this mattress cover. Its fully waterproof membrane will safeguard against spills, sweat and anything else, and because it's breathable it's a strong choice for hot sleepers. It won't rustle in the night and at 15 inches it'll fit most mattresses, although you may struggle to fit it over a topper. It comes with a 100-night trial, too.
Waterproof: Yes
Washable: Yes, cold
Fits up to: 16"
If you've treated yourself to our favorite mattress, the Saatva Classic, you'll want a premium protector to keep it in the best condition, and Saatva's own waterproof mattress protector should be an excellent if expensive fit. It's made with a moisture-wicking cotton knit, paired with a polyurethane moisture barrier that protects against spills while micro-perforations keep things breathable. There's a cotton lining with deep pockets and a silicone elastic band, ensuring that your protector will stay in place throughout the night. Saatva offers 45-day free returns on this one, plus a one-year warranty.
Waterproof: Yes
Washable: Yes, cold to low heat
Fits up to: 18"
If you want to guard against bed bugs, the Hospitology Sleep Defense System is the option to go for. It's a zipped encasement that provides total protection from bed bug infestations, and it'll also guard against spills, germs, dust mites and allergens. It has an extra-soft polyester knit with a breathable, waterproof membrane, and it won't retain heat or make a noise when it's on your bed. There's no trial period but you get a five-year warranty.
Waterproof: Yes
Washable: Yes, cold
Fits up to: 16"
The Helix Waterproof Mattress Encasement fits snugly around your entire mattress and zips shut. As well as being waterproof it can keep out bed bugs and dust mites, ensuring you can sleep soundly in the knowledge that your mattress is protected. The encasement's made from polyester microfiber, with a TPU waterproofing layer on the top and sides, plus a non-skid bottom to ensure everything stays in place. It's hypoallergenic and it comes with a 100-night trial.
Waterproof: Yes
Washable: Yes, cool to warm
Fits up to: 15"
Anyone who tends to get hot in the night should take a look at the Brooklyn Bedding Luxury Cooling Mattress Protector. It's made with a heat-conducting material that creates a cooler sleep surface that remains cool to the touch. This mattress protector is hypoallergenic and provides a barrier against dust mites, bacteria and bed bugs, although for total protection you should opt for a full mattress encasement like the Hospitology Sleep Defense System above.
Waterproof: Yes
Washable: Yes
Fits up to: 22"
For a completely organic option, look no further than Avocado's Organic Waterproof Mattress Protector, but be prepared to pay for the privilege, especially if you opt for the deep pocket version that'll fit mattresses up to 22" deep. It ticks all the eco boxes, with GOTS certified organic cotton and a thin polyurethane waterproofing layer that won't crinkle. This one runs large and Avocado advises washing it before use so it'll shrink to fit.
Waterproof: Yes
Washable: Yes, cold
Fits up to: 18"
The SafeRest Premium Mattress Protector could be your perfect sleep solution if you or a member of your family has allergies. It's a hypoallergenic cover that's designed to not aggravate common allergies. It safeguards against sweat, urine, fluids and stains, and is back-coated with a breathable polyurethane membrane. The SafeRest Premium Mattress Protector is also soft to the touch and noiseless when in use, and it won't affect the feel of your mattress either.
Waterproof: Yes
Washable: Yes, on low heat
Fits up to: 12"
Linenspa's Premium Waterproof Mattress Protector is a fitted sheet-style cover with a waterproof backing, and its low price makes it a cost-effective option if you're dealing with incontinence, or your kids are prone to bed-wetting. It's well-rated on Amazon, particularly for its value for money, effectiveness and quietness, however it may struggle with taller mattresses or if you have a mattress topper. This one comes with an impressive 10-year warranty.
Waterproof: Yes
Washable: Yes, cold
Fits up to: 15"
Purple's mattress protector delivers a high-quality feel and great performance. Made from polyester, Spandex and TPU, its dual-layer protection to safeguard your mattress against urine, sweat and spillages, and prevents any puddles from forming on top. There's a dust mite and dander barrier too, and it also provides an extra comfort layer, allowing your hips and shoulders to sink in. It's a more expensive option but worth the outlay, and it comes with a 10-year warranty.
Waterproof: Yes
Washable: Yes, cool to warm
Fits up to: 18"
The Bedecor Mattress Protector is a great all-rounder, being waterproof, machine washable and affordable, although Linenspa's option is slightly cheaper. It's made with a terry toweling top layer (backed with TPU), so it can quickly soak any spillages should they occur; be aware, though, that the you may find the TPU layer a little noisy. We think this one's a good choice for a spare room or if you're on a budget, and it's available in two-packs if you're buying for multiple beds.
Waterproof: Yes
Washable: Yes, cold or warm
Fits up to: 15"
The Utopia Bedding Bamboo Mattress Protector is an eco-friendly option, and it features a very lightly cushioned top that gives it a feel somewhere between a mattress protector and a mattress pad. Its waterproof TPU backing safeguards your bed from spills and moisture such as body oils, sweat and drool, while its naturally breathable bamboo enables air to flow more freely. It'll fit most beds and its Smooth Grip Skirt System means it should hug your mattress perfectly.
Waterproof: Yes
Washable: Yes, cold
Fits up to: 14"
The Tempur-Protect Mattress Protector is an expensive option, but if you've invested in a Tempur-Pedic mattress you'll want something that can safeguard it against stains and spills. It's made with ThermalSense fabric that'll help keep things cool, while polyurethane laminate make it waterproof. CertainFit Mesh sides allow it to fit mattresses between 8 and 14 inches deep, although some users have found that it's not always great at staying in place at night.
The best mattress protectors UK
Waterproof: Yes
Washable: Yes, to 50ºC
Fits up to: 32cm
Panda is known for its eco-friendly approach, with sleep products that all use bamboo. This protector is made from 70% cotton and 30% bamboo fabric, and promises to be soft, antimicrobial and naturally hypoallergenic. There's a light Nano TPU layer to make it waterproof, and Panda says it's completely silent. It can be washed at 50ºC, which is hotter than most of the protectors in our ranking. The extras are excellent: a 30-night trial, and free delivery and returns too.
Waterproof: Yes
Washable: Yes, to 40ºC
Fits up to: 32cm
The Nectar Mattress Protector has a top layer made from ultra-soft, breathable Tencel fabric. This sits on top of a SmartSeal waterproofing layer, which ensures spillages won't reach your mattress, and the whole thing attaches to your mattress using an elasticated skirt. Nectar promises this protector will help prevent overnight overheating, too, although doesn't go into any detail about how. It's machine-washable, but not suitable for tumble-drying. The extras are generous: a two-year warranty and free named-day delivery.
Waterproof: No
Washable: Yes, to 40ºC
Fits up to: 'All'
If you don't need waterproofing, this is one of Silentnight's non-waterproof options. It comes at a budget-friendly price, and is lightly quilted to add a little touch of cushioning to your mattress. Instead of a skirt, this protector attaches using elastic straps. That means it should fit pretty much any mattress, although beware the sides of your mattress won't be protected.
Waterproof: No
Washable: Yes, temp not specified
Fits up to: 40cm
The Simba mattress protector is designed to add a bit of luxury. It's not waterproof but will still provide a useful first barrier to all but the most severe spillages. It's lightly quilted, anti-microbial, and has breathable cotton fill, and it'll fit mattresses up to 40cm deep, making it an excellent option if you've opted for a luxurious bed with loads of layers. You can pop it in your washing machine, but we're not sure to what temperature. Simba is one of our favourite mattress brands; it's a certified B-Corp, and all delivery is carbon-neutral, too.
Waterproof: Yes
Washable: Yes up to 40°C
Fits up to: 31cm
Emma's mattress protector has a smooth feel and is designed to be 100% waterproof and spill-proof, and it's made from polyester with a breathable polyurethane top layer. Elasticated edges mean that it'll stay in place, and it's washable at up to 40°C. While Emma states that the protector won't crackle as you move about, it also mentions that it might do that at first, and recommends a wash to help it settle down. There's a 14-night trial but no mention of a guarantee.
Waterproof: Yes
Washable: Yes, cool
Fits up to: 28cm
Otty's Waterproof Mattress Protector is a good option if you want a protector that has a soft feel as well as being waterproof. It's made with breathable microfibres that'll keep out dirt, spillages, bacteria and dust mites, and it's designed to be crinkle-free so it won't make a noise when you move about in the night. It can be cool washed and line-dried, and like the Emma mattress protector there's a 14-night trial with this one, as well as a one-year guarantee.
Waterproof: Yes
Washable: Yes, up to 60°C
Fits up to: 31cm
Another protector from a big-name bed brand, the Tempur Cooling Mattress Protector is a breathable and waterproof protector that features thermoregulating microcapsules that, says Tempur, can help keep your skin between 28-30ºC all night for optimum comfort. The protector's made with tencel that's laminated with a reactive waterproof membrane, and it's stretchable with an elasticated fabric skirt for a snug fit that'll safeguard against dust mites. It's washable and can even be tumble-dried at a low temperature, and it comes with a three-year guarantee.
Waterproof: Yes
Washable: Yes, to 40C
Fits up to: 30cm
Silentnight is a great brand for sleep accessories. Its new and improved waterproof mattress protector promises to be rustle-free, and fits mattresses up to 30cm deep. There's a quilted microfibre cover and very affordable pricing. It can be machine-washed, but only up to 40ºC, which isn't hot enough to kill off dust mites, unfortunately.
Waterproof: Yes
Washable: Yes
Fits up to: 25cm
The REM-Fit Tencel Cool Mattress Protector is designed to be durable and smooth to the touch and it's hypoallergenic as well. It's made with a top layer of tencel fibres that wick moisture away and are temperature-regulating too, and under that is a waterproof membrane barrier that also keeps out dust mites and allergens. REM-Fit describes this one as a fitted sheet, which means you don't necessarily need to have a sheet on top of it (we probably would, though), and it's worth noting that it appears to be made with 25cm-deep REM-Fit mattresses in mind; if you have a deeper mattress then you'd probably be better off elsewhere. There's a five-year guarantee with this one.
Mattress protector FAQs
Are mattress protectors worth it?
Yes, mattress protectors are 100% worth the money. They are vital for prolonging the lifespan of your mattress and keeping it in tip top condition night in, night out. These fabric covers also mean you don't have to clean fully your mattress so often, as they protect against everyday stains, smells and general wear and tear. That isn't to say you can skip out on cleaning your mattress though, as that is an important aspect of care. Read our guide on how to clean a mattress for step-by-step advice.
Considering how some of the options in our best mattress protectors guide start from under $16, this is a small cost compared to the level of protection and hygiene they offer. You can usually find them at discounted prices during brand and retailer mattress sales too.
Each mattress protector or encasement comes with a long list of benefits. Some are basic designs capable of protecting your bed from spills and stains, while others are full mattress covers capable of warding off pesky bed bugs. They aren’t without their annoyances though - some are a little noisy in use - but these pale in comparison to the benefits. Especially if you find a mattress protector with a five or 10-year warranty.
Plus, if you have just invested in a new mattress and are still in your trial period, it’s essential you protect your mattress from all of the above. So if you don’t use a good quality mattress protector, and you stain it or mark it in some way, you may not be eligible for a return on the bed if you change your mind during the trial period.
When is the best time to buy a mattress protector?
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The moment that you buy a new mattress is the best time to buy a mattress protector, because if you cover it properly from the start, your mattress will stay cleaner and healthier for longer. That will help it last longer, saving you money in the long run.
If your mattress is a few years old and you want to buy a new mattress protector to freshen things up, there are great prices available most days. We feature several affordable mattress covers in this guide, and quite often they are discounted. Some mattress manufacturers even throw in a free mattress protector as a perk when you buy a boxed mattress.
Outside of these scenarios, the best time to buy a mattress protector is usually when there are big, seasonal mattress sales happening. The most well-known are the Black Friday mattress deals, which arrive in late November, quickly followed by Cyber Monday mattress deals. We've seen great prices on mattress protectors during these sale periods, and while the discounts are never huge, even $10 off a mattress cover that's normally priced $30 is a generous saving.
At other times of the year, you may find decent deals during the Presidents' Day mattress sales, the Memorial Day mattress sales, and the Labor Day mattress sales. Whatever the month, the price-tracking software we use in this guide will show you the very best mattress protector prices on that day, so you'll get the cheapest options shown to you.
How often should you wash a mattress protector?
Mattress protectors are designed to withstand regular washing, though how much washing they can withstand depends on the materials the cover is made from and how well made (or not) the protector is. According to cleaning experts, you should wash a mattress protector every two months.
Think about all the sweat, dead skin and bacteria that seeps through your fitted sheet and onto the mattress cover, and it's no wonder you need to clean it far more often that your actual mattress. Want to know more about this? Then check out our feature on dust mites and sweat: what builds up on a mattress that isn't cleaned.
However there are situations where you may need to wash your mattress protector more frequently. These include illness - if you have recently been sick, it's best to strip all of your bedding, including the mattress protector, and wash them to remove any bacteria, germs and other nasties that have landed on the sheets and mattress cover.
If you share your bed with a pet, you might want to wash your mattress protector monthly to stay on top of all the shed fur, pet dander and germs that a sleeping pet adds to bed linens and protectors.
You'll also need to clean your mattress protector immediately if you have spilled something on it, as the faster you deal with the spillage, the less it will stain your mattress cover. Remember, the better you care for your mattress protector, the longer it can protect your mattress and save you money on looking for replacements.
Read more:
- The best Simba mattress sales and discounts on hybrid beds
- Saatva mattress sales and deals: what to shop
- The best Nectar mattress sales and deals for all budgets
- How to choose a mattress: top tips for bed shopping
- Our guide to the best sleep trackers
