The best mattress protectors will ensure your mattress stays looking and feeling its best for longer.
Although some of the best mattresses do come with a removable fabric cover that can be unzipped for washing, most don't, so adding a mattress protector to the bed is essential for keeping your mattress clean and fresh.
A mattress protector is usually formed from a quilted fabric top layer that has a small amount of padding to keep any stains or spillages away from the mattress surface and an elasticated skirt to hold the protector in place on the bed. Alternatively, a zipped mattress encasement offers protection for all six sides of your mattress.
To help you find the right option for you, we've weighed up options from Marks & Spencer, Woolroom, Panda, Dunelm and many more to find the best waterproof mattress protectors, the best cotton mattress protectors for a cooler night's sleep, and the best zipped mattress protectors for full protection.
Best mattress protectors
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Best waterproof mattress protectors
If you want the ultimate mattress protection then you need a mattress protector that incorporates a waterproof membrane to shield your mattress from bedwetting, sweat, and accidental spills.
The downside to opting for a waterproof mattress protector is that as they aren't permeable, they can tend to sleep hot, and cheaper options can feel plasticky and make a rustling noise when you turn over in bed.
These three waterproof mattress protectors will protect your mattress whilst delivering a cooler and quieter sleep.
Materials: cover 80% cotton and 20% polyester, backing 100% polyurethane Sizes: single / double / king / super king Depth: 30cm Care: machine washable, do not tumble dry
This is one of the best value waterproof mattress protectors we've found, with prices starting at £14 for the single, £18 for a double, £20 for a king size, and £24 for a super king size.
The terry towelling upper means its a great option for bedwetting as there's plenty of absorbant fabric to soak up liquid, whilst the polyurethane base layer adds an impermeable barrier to protect the mattress.
This protector can also be machine washed, although it needs to be line dried rather than tumble dried.
It also has over 400 positive reviews from Dunelm customers who rate it on average 4.7 out of 5 stars, praising its comfort, quietness on the bed, and value for money.
Materials: cover 80% cotton and 20% polyester, backing 100% polyurethane Sizes: single / double / king / super king Depth: 38cm Care: wash at 40°c, tumble dry low temperature
If you need a deeper waterproof mattress protector then this Sleep Solutions option available from Marks & Spencers will fit a mattress up to 38cm in depth.
It's only a little more expensive than the Dunelm option, and, similarly, it features a terry towelling upper to absorb fluid paired with a polyurethane base layer that acts as a waterproof barrier to protect the mattress from spills.
This protector can also be machine washed and tumble dried on a low temperature.
There is also a 30cm deep Sleep Solutions Terry Waterproof Mattress Protector available for a comparable price to Dunelm's terry towelling option.
Materials: cover 70% bamboo, 30% cotton, backing 100% polyester Sizes: cot / cotbed / single / small double / double / king / super king / EU single / EU double / EU king / EU emporer Depth: 32cm Care: wash at 50°c, do not tumble dry
This waterproof mattress protector comes in a wide range of size options that make it easy to find an option to fit a sofa bed, caravan bed, or any other unusually sized sleeping area.
It features a mix of temperature-regulating bamboo and cotton in its cover, with a base layer of what the brand dubs 'Nano TPU™', and describes as an 'ultra-thin, silent, aerosol-free, non-toxic, biodegradable, waterproof layer'.
Whilst this protector doesn't have the absorbency of a terry towelling option, it still provides very discreet waterproof protection and our testers found it a great option for protecting a mattress from excess moisture such as sweat.
Best cotton mattress protector
As a natural fibre, cotton is more breathable than synthetics, so a cotton mattress protector is the best choice if you want to prevent overheating and benefit from a cooler night's sleep.
However, finding a 100% cotton mattress protector can be a tricky task, as many manufacturers combine a cotton top layer with synthetic wadding underneath, which impacts breathability.
We've done the hard work for you and dug into the small print to find three pure cotton mattress protectors that truly are as close to all natural as you can get.
Materials: outer 100% cotton, filling 100% cotton Sizes: single / double / king / super king Depth: up to 30cm / up to 38cm Care: wash at 40°c, tumble dry low temperature
This is the best value pure cotton mattress protector we've found, with prices starting at £25 for the single, £29.50 for a double, £35 for a king size, and £39.50 for a super king size.
It's also one of the few pure cotton mattress protectors that's available in two depths which is very useful for getting a snug fit on the bed. There's an option for mattresses up to 30cm and for beds up to 38cm deep.
This cotton protector can be washed at wash at 40°c and tumble dried at a low temperature, plus it gets rave reviews from M&S customers, with over 400 reviewers rating it on average 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Marks & Spencer's cotton is also sourced from the Better Cotton Initiative which aims to support cotton growing communities, whilst protecting and restoring the environment.
Materials: outer 100% cotton, filling 98% cotton and 2% mixed fibres Sizes: small single/ single / small double / double / king / super king Depth: up to 35cm Care: wash at 40°c, do not tumble dry
This cotton mattress protector comes in a little more expensive than the M&S option, but it offers a wider range of sizes, including both a small single and small double mattress size.
However, there is only one mattress depth available, so if your mattress is over 35cm deep, you'll need to opt for one of our other recommendations.
Like the M&S option, this protector can be machine washed at 40°c, plus, as cotton is a natural fibre that can shrink when laundered, it's been specifically designed so that its dimensions take shrinkage into account. However, the downside is that unlike our other picks, this one can't be tumble dried.
John Lewis says its cotton is sustainably sourced and supports cotton farmers who 'use water efficiently, care for the environment and promote fair and decent work'.
Materials: outer 100% cotton, filling 100% cotton Sizes: single / double / king / super king Depth: 40cm Care: wash at 30°-40°c, tumble dry low temperature
Unlike our first two recommendations, this extra deep cotton mattress protector will fit a mattress up to 40cm in depth, so it's a good option if you want a cotton mattress protector to fit over a mattress that has a topper attached.
It can be machine washed on a warm setting, tumble dried on low, and it's designed to be slightly oversized when unboxed to allow for natural shrinkage when it's first washed.
It is the most expensive cotton protector in our round-up, but it's also the only cotton mattress protector on our list to be Oeko-Tex 100 Standard certified. That means no harmful toxins or chemicals have been used in the manufacturing process which is good news for the planet, and us.
It's also delivered in a drawstring cotton bag, in plastic free, recyclable packaging which is great news for the environment.
Best zippered mattress protector
Otherwise known as a mattress encasement, a zippered mattress protector covers the entire mattress rather than just the top and sides.
An encasement can be a good way to protect your mattress from dust-mites if you have allergies, and can help to prevent and protect from bed bug infestations. If you're moving into a furnished rental property or buying a secondhand mattress, a mattress encasement could also offer peace of mind that any nasties lurking within the mattress are contained.
Plus, a waterproof zippered mattress protector is the ultimate protection against bedwetting as it shields the sides of the mattress as well as the top.
Materials: cover polyester, backing polyester Sizes: cot / cot bed / single / double / king / super king Depth: 30cm Care: wash on cold, do not tumble dry
Mattress encasements can be tricky to source, so it's no wonder this Amazon option is a bestseller. Plus, a very affordable price tag makes it the best budget option we've come across.
This zippered mattress protector is also waterproof on all six sides, so your mattress will be fully protected from moisture as well as dust mites and bed bugs.
Available in adult sizes as well as smaller cot and cot bed options, the only downside is this protector's depth, with it only fitting mattresses up to 30cm deep.
However, with 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 11,000 reviewers, it's a definite crowdpleaser, and owners praise both its value and performance.
Materials: 100% cotton Sizes: single / small double / double / king / super king Depth: 30cm / 35cm Care: wash at 40°c, tumble dry on a low
Made from 100% cotton, this mattress encasement isn't waterproof, but it is dust-mite resistant which is great news for those with allergies.
It can also be machine washed at 40°c and tumble dried on a low heat, so you can easily freshen up your bed and wash away any pollen, pet hair, or other allergens.
It's also a useful buy for anyone who just wants to protect their mattress from marks on all six sides, and as it's pure cotton, it's far more breathable option than a waterproof encasement.
Handily, this zippered protector is also available in two depths of 30cm or 35cm.
Materials: cover 100% polyester, backing 100% polyurethane Sizes: single / small double / double / king / super king Depth: two zip heights Care: wash at 30°c, do not tumble dry
This clever waterproof mattress encasement features two zip heights which means it can cater to a variety of sizes of mattress.
Its jersey top layer also creates a comfortable sleep surface whilst the 4-in-1 protection offers defence against dust mites, bed bugs and allergens, as well as keeping your entire mattress dry and stain-free.
You can also opt to add on Soak & Sleep's Pillow Encasements which offer the same inpenetrable protection for your pillows.
How to choose the best mattress protector for you
A mattress is a big investment, so a mattress protector is an essential to protect your purchase and keep your sleep set-up fresh and clean.
After all, if you're wondering how to clean a mattress, it can be done, but it's far easier to bung a mattress protector in the washing machine than it is to attempt to spot clean a mattress.
The good news is that mattress protectors don't cost very much. An option for around £20 is all you need to keep your mattress in tip top shape. But what should you consider before you buy?
Waterproof mattress protectors
First up, you'll want to consider whether to opt for a waterproof mattress protector.
A waterproof mattress protector offers the ultimate protection, shielding the mattress from bedwetting and creating an impermeable layer that won't allow any moisture to soak into the mattress itself.
A waterproof terry towelling protector can be a great option for incontinence as it offers a thick layer of absorbent cushioning to soak up fluids, or you can opt for a thinner layer that will shield your mattress from smaller amounts of moisture such as excess sweating.
The downside to opting for a waterproof mattress protector is that the backing of the protector will be made from an impermeable polyurethane membrane so that no moisture leaks through, but this also means that no air can pass through, and this lack of breathability can lead to overheating.
A waterproof mattress protector can also feel a little more plasticky and is prone to making a rustling sound when you move.
Non-waterproof mattress protectors
If you're not worried about incontinence or bedwetting then you may prefer the comfort and increased breathability of a non-waterproof mattress protector instead.
A classic mattress protector usually has some light quilted wadding on the top surface that's designed to keep any stains lifted up away from the mattress surface, and this is usually thick enough to absorb sweat, skin cells, and any dirt or grime without them reaching the mattress.
This type of mattress protector may be made from polyester or natural materials.
Synthetic mattress protectors can usually be washed at higher temperatures, and dry quickly, which can make them a good option for those who suffer from allergies and want a quick and easy way to freshen up their bed and rinse away allergens such as pollen or pet hair.
However, a mattress protector made from natural materials – such as a cotton cover with cotton or wool wadding – is the coolest option. That's becasue natural fibres are more breathable than synthetics, so they allow air to circulate which helps the body to regulate its temperature during the night.
If you've opted for a natural mattress for its enhanced breathability, then it's important to choose a mattress protector made from natural materials too.
Zippered mattress protectors
As already mentioned, a zippered mattress protector – also known as a mattress encasement – differs slightly from a standard mattress protector in that it provides protection for all six sides of your mattress and zips up to seal the mattress completely.
This is a great option for anyone concerned about bed bugs, and – if you opt for a waterproof mattress encasement – also offers the greatest protection for your mattress against fluids, moisture, or damp, as both the sides, and even the base of the mattress are protected.
Ease of care
Additionally, Karen Innes, New Product Development Manager at bedding manufacturer Slumberdown reminds us to check the care instructions for the mattress protector or encasement before we buy.
As she says, 'something often overlooked is washing your bedding, and your mattress protector is no exception - choose a mattress protector that is machine washable and try to get into a washing routine with your bedding to prevent any build-up of sweat, oil and dirt.'
FAQs
Should you choose a mattress protector or a mattress topper?
A mattress protector and a mattress topper are two different things. You can find out more in our guide to mattress toppers vs protectors. However, in a nutshell, a mattress topper is a thick cushioned layer designed to add extra comfort to a mattress that otherwise feels too firm. Whereas a mattress protector is a thin fabric layer designed purely to protect your sleep surface from accidental stains, moisture, or allergens.
In our opinion, all mattresses should be fitted with a mattress protector to keep the mattress below clean and hygenic. Whereas not everyone needs a mattress topper.
However, if your bed is too firm, you may want to add one of the best mattress toppers, or one of the best cooling mattress toppers, to your bed to increase its comfort or breathability. In this case adding a mattress protector over your topper will also help to keep your topper clean!
Do mattress protectors make a difference?
A mattress protector may at first seem like an unnecessary add-on, but, adding one to your sleep set up will do wonders for keeping your mattress guarded against spills, damages and dirt that may seep through your sheet (even without you realising it).
Ever noticed some marks or yellow stains on your mattress, but are unsure where they’ve come from? Yep, a mattress protector will take the stain instead, leaving your mattress fresh underneath. This all contributes to the longevity of your mattress.
How often should you wash a mattress protector?
Mattress protectors are there to care for your mattress, by guarding it against dust mites, debris, stains and spills. For it to do so, your mattress protector needs a little TLC itself. It’s recommended you wash your mattress protector every two months or so, providing no spillages occur in the meantime.
How you wash the protector or encasement will depend on the type of protector and the material it’s made from. Our guide to how to wash a mattress protector has more detail, but, in short, always refer to the care instructions on the mattress protector before washing.
How we tested these mattress protectors
You'll find full details of the Ideal Home review process on our How We Test page.
For those mattress protectors we've tested, we slept on each option for a couple of nights to test out its comfort and breathability, as well placing a towel under each protector and encasement to see how waterproof and stain resistant each option was.
Where we haven't yet managed to test a protector in person, we've thoroughly researched its materials and construction, and dived into reviews from existing owners to ensure each protector lives up to its claims.
We also considered value for money and sustainability when compiling our top recommendations.
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