How to Choose a Mattress Protector

Would you like to know how to choose a mattress protector? In this article, you will learn how to choose one. Additionally, we will cover other areas such as:

• Are there different types of mattress protectors?
• What to look for in a mattress protector?
• What is the best mattress protector?
  

Choose a mattress protector based on your needs. In addition to size, material, construction, and technology, there are other factors to consider. These will be determined once you determine what you need them for. Be sure to consider the size of your mattress when choosing a protector.

Types of mattress protectors you can get

There are different types of mattress protectors available based on different factors. We've listed different types of mattress protectors based on their construction. Construction methods can dramatically affect a protector's feel, performance, and, most importantly, its price.

Material

Most mattress protectors usually come in cotton. But we also find some in materials like latex, vinyl, and polyester. Interestingly, other protectors are made by blending cotton with materials like wool or latex. The price of these protectors depends mainly on the quality of the materials.

Encasement

These are the different types of encasements available for mattress protectors:

1. Protectors that slide onto the corners of your mattress are easy to lay down. However, they do not provide good hold and come off quickly if you move too much on the bed. These are usually not very expensive.
2. Protectors with elastic hems are great as they cling onto the mattress. These mattress protectors will stay put even if you move around. However, not many materials support the contraction and expansion of elastic hems. These types of protectors are moderately priced.
3. Protectors with zippers provide the most secure hold. These kinds of mattress protectors will not budge unless unzipped. However, it is suitable only for sturdier materials. These are a little more expensive.

Finishing

There are two main types of finishing, quilted and non-quilted. Quilted mattress protectors usually have extra padding that is evenly distributed. However, non-quilted ones are great if you want to lay down sheets without any creases. And since they don't have grooves or piping, they are easier to wash.

Thread Count

Thread count can determine the lifespan of your mattress protector. A rule of thumb when looking at thread count is, the greater the thread count, the more durable the protector is. Mattress protectors with high thread counts are also softer and more comfortable. These are, however, more expensive.

Technology

Mattress protectors can also have different kinds of integrated technology within them. A popular feature is an adjustable heat function. Mattress protectors can also be antimicrobial treated or have membranes making them fully waterproof. Protectors with added features will be more expensive.

What to Look for in a Mattress Protector?

Here are a few pointers to help you determine what to look for in a mattress protector:

1. You should always keep your mattress size in mind. Mattress protectors come in mattress sizes, so they are easy to match. The right size will prevent sliding and bunching and will provide better protection. 
2. Cotton mattress protectors with a high thread count are the best choice if you are sensitive to dust. The higher the thread count, the tighter the weave, which will keep dust and debris out. Polyester and vinyl are also suitable materials. If you suffer from allergies, Designer Living recommends getting a mattress protector you can wash regularly.
3. For homes with children and pets, waterproof mattresses are best. Cots also use these mattress protectors. Mattresses with coated membranes usually have latex or vinyl, but there are also cotton mattresses. Waterproof cotton mattress protectors are also more breathable and comfortable.
4. To protect your mattress from bed bugs, you should use a fully encased mattress protector. Zippered mattress protectors are ideal for this purpose.
5. When the weather is hot, or you sleep hot, you might prefer a quilted cotton mattress. In addition to regulating airflow, it also absorbs moisture if you sweat while sleeping.

Best Mattress Protector

Mattress protectors are available on the market. The following are some of the best waterproof mattress protectors: to compile this list. We used waterproof as the baseline criteria.

Top Pick: Emma Mattress Protector

You can keep your bed healthy and clean with the Emma mattress protector. In addition to being waterproof and antibacterial, it ensures that your mattress is protected perfectly and that you will have comfortable nights for many years to come.

In general, you should get a mattress protector for three reasons, and Emma outlines them all below. 

Spill-free mornings

With the EmmaGuard's waterproof layer, the mattress protector is 100% safe from food, drink, and pets. To regain freshness after a spill, all it takes is a quick trip in the washing machine at 40°C.​

Allergy-free

Are you aware that dust mites can cause 70% of all respiratory allergies and even asthma? The protector contains microcapsules that release natural probiotics upon friction during sleep. As these probiotics multiply exponentially, a microclimate is created that prevents allergies from growing. The fight against dust mites, dog hair, and cat hair allergies is over!

Irresistibly cosy

It’s super soft and keeps you fresh and cool all night. This is due to the fact that the 3D knitted fabric provides excellent ventilation and moisture regulation. Furthermore, the temperature-regulating top layer allows sweat to evaporate faster and maintains a constant temperature throughout the night. It also hugs your mattress 360°, keeping it wrinkle-free and without the crackling of conventional mattress covers!

Furthermore, since it is held in place by the elastic edges, fitting without hassle around your mattress, keeping it wrinkle-free and without crackling.

I highly recommend this product for people who work from home, have pets or kids, and want to keep their mattress protected. The more worry-free comfortable work from home days in bed the better. Plus, you get a 100-night trial and free delivery and returns.

(alt pick) SafeRest Premium

The SafeRest hypoallergenic protector is our overall pick. With an Amazon rating of 4.6-stars and a hundred thousand positive reviews, it is the best money can buy. It is made from cotton and has a fitted encasement. It is hypoallergenic and protects against allergens, dust mites, urine, and other fluids. This protector also has a membrane coated on the back and comes in a wide range of sizes.

Pros:

• Waterproof
• A mattress feel is not compromised
• Hypoallergenic

Cons:

• Not every noise absorbent

(pick for cots) Clevamama Cotton

This protector is our pick for your child’s cot. The Clevamama waterproof cot protector has a breathable membrane and is super soft for your baby's sensitive skin. It is hypoallergenic and has an elastic encasement so your baby can move without it coming off. It is also machine wash and dryer safe.

Pros:

• Thick and soft material
• Machine-wash safe
• Waterproof

Cons:

• Customers complained that it shrinks after washing

(budget pick) Bedecor Waterproof

The Bedecor is our pick for a waterproof budget mattress. It is made from terry cotton and has a cotton membrane coating. The protector is also OEKO-TEX certified, protecting your mattress against allergens, urine, and sweat. Bedecor is also great for kids with asthma and eczema and can be machine washed. And Bedecor products come with a 10year full replacement warranty.

Pros:

• Waterproof and OEKO TEX certified
• Safe for eczema and asthma
• 10-year product replacement warranty

Cons:

• There is a plastic-like smell after washing

Many people overlook the importance of a mattress protector. They not only waterproof your mattress but also help against odour and stains. Mattress protectors also ensure that your mattress can be used for longer and are especially useful if you are sensitive to dust.

They are only a one-time purchase but are beneficial for many years after they are purchased.

For more information, check our mattress protector reviews.