The Best Waterproof Mattress Protectors for a Clean, Dry Bed

Mattress protectors are used to safeguard against stains and dirt; they keep spills from soaking into your mattress. Protectors vary greatly, but can be as simple as a thin cotton cover used to keep the mattress clean.

There are many types of protectors that come in a wide variety of materials: different options to fit different needs. Do you have a newborn and need a mattress protector for a crib? Do you occasionally spill a glass of water on your bedside table? The need to protect a mattress from spills, leaks, and stains of various kinds exists across the spectrum of bed sizes and age ranges—everyone’s mattress can benefit from a protective cover.

Let’s look at our top picks and things to consider when purchasing a mattress protector.

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Our Picks for the Best Waterproof Mattress Protectors

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Why Do I Need a Mattress Protector?

In general, mattress protectors are designed to act as a barrier between everything happening on top of your bed and the mattress itself. A window left open during a rainstorm, a toddler with a leaky diaper, night sweats, your dog’s drool, and everything else that can happen to a mattress to stain it or get it wet.

Mattress protectors are thought of as insurance for your bed and insurance for your health. Good mattresses are expensive and a good protector is worth the investment. Easily washable, protective covers keep your bed fresh and extend the life of your mattress. Sheets alone can act as a wick, drawing liquids into the mattress. Dust mites, bacteria, and humidity can all establish themselves in your mattress, making it unhealthy.  A mattress protector guards against mold and mildew, and acts as a barrier, so allergens and other unwanted elements don’t take up residence in your mattress.

Things to Consider When Purchasing a Waterproof Mattress Protector

Keeping the Mattress Dry

There are all kinds of mattress pads and mattress protectors. If your goal is to guard against liquids, in the form of spills, leaks, and incontinence, you want a waterproof protector. These come in fitted sheet styles, which cover the top and sides of the mattress, or a full mattress enclosure that covers the entire mattress and usually zips shut.

One major consideration is that, for a mattress cover to be waterproof, it cannot be made of all natural materials. You can purchase an organic cover that protects and guards against liquids, but it will not be 100% waterproof.

Comfort

Waterproof mattress pads have a history of being noisy, hot, and uncomfortable. This stems from a time when vinyl and plastics were used to create the waterproof barrier. They made a crinkling sound when you moved, were not breathable, were often hot, stiff, and unpleasant to sleep on. They were used only when necessary, or in places like hospitals, to combat incontinence. This is no longer the case! Many brands have now developed both waterproof membranes, breathable membranes, soft cotton tops, and quiet fabrics.

Chemicals

Originally, most mattress pads contained chemicals and fire retardants that are now considered harmful to your health. Polyvinyl chloride and phthalates, fire retardants such as polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), and chlorinated tris (TDCPP) are recognized as unhealthy and not used in most mattress protectors any longer.

Check with the manufacturer to understand what chemicals are used in creating the waterproof component of the mattress protector you are considering, especially if you have allergies or chemical sensitivities.

Styles

Because no one sees the protector, they only come in solid white: no colors or designs. They do, however, come in a variety of fabrics and fits. You can get cotton, a cotton blend, bamboo, or polyester. The cover can be well padded or quite thin. It may form fit like a bottom sheet or cover the entire mattress.

Price

Waterproof mattress protectors come in a wide variety of prices. You can find one for as little as $10 or spend $100+. There is a good selection of mattress protectors between $30 and $50.

Warranty

In the five best covers profiled above, there is a range of warranties from 1 year to 15 years. Manufacturers can vary greatly in what they warranty, how long the warranty lasts, and how easy or difficult it is to return an item. Check by reading their policies and by reading the reviews.

Cleaning

It is easy to assume that all mattress covers are easy care and machine wash and dry, but in researching protectors, we found numerous ones that require special care or dry cleaning. Read through care instructions, so you have a clear idea of what is needed to maintain the mattress protector, and plan to wash it regularly.

Replacement

How often should you replace the mattress protector? The answer depends on how often you need to wash it and how well it holds up. The general recommendation is to replace it yearly, but if it is washed very frequently, like several times a week, you may need to replace it every 4 to 6 months. Also, for some brands, washing decreases the waterproof quality, so replacement is needed to keep the mattress well protected.

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Summary

Having a protective cover is important for the longevity of your mattress and for your health.  A waterproof mattress cover can help by keeping liquids and various allergens locked out of the mattress. Consider things like what you want to spend, the warranty, any chemical sensitivities, and the style you like. Reviews and ratings are available online to help guide your decision.