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The Best Mattress Protector

Last updated on August 21, 2023
Best Mattress Protector

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When you buy a mattress, it’s also a good idea to get a protector to go with it. A mattress protector fits over your mattress, residing under your fitted sheet. There, it serves as a barrier between you and the mattress beneath, keeping sweat, skin cells and other contaminants from making their way through.

Mattress protectors can also keep spilled drinks from making their way to your mattress. And if a member of your family, including one of your pets, has an accident in bed, the protector will keep that from getting to your mattress as well.

MORE: The Best Mattress Pads

But there are some things to look for when you’re shopping for a mattress protector. Even if one says that it can handle your mattress size, if you have a mattress that’s deeper than average, you’ll need to look for a protector marked as “deep pocket” and pay close attention to the maximum depth it can handle.

There are three ways mattress protectors attach. Perhaps the easiest is the type that fits over your mattress with elastic. Another popular type is the protector that covers the entire mattress, including the underside, and zips over it to make sure every single inch is protected. Lastly, there’s the elastic strap style, which is designed for a protector that just rests on the top of the mattress.

Our Picks For The Top Mattress Protectors

View All Recommendations
Product Overview
Our Take
 Best All-Purpose Pick

Amazon Basics Full Encasement Waterproof Mattress Protector

Don't Waste Your Money Seal of Approval

Amazon Basics

Full Encasement Waterproof Mattress Protector

Available in sizes from twin to California king, you can find a protector that works for your mattress. You can also choose from a low-profile depth of 9 inches or a standard 12-inch depth. This mattress offers six-sided mattress protection and full zipper closure to offer full enclosure.

Overall Take

Breathable and DurableYou'll have protection against spills with this waterproof mattress, which is also breathable to keep moisture buildup at a minimum.

 Runner Up

PlushDeluxe Bamboo 360-Degree Protection Waterproof Mattress Protector

PlushDeluxe

Bamboo 360-Degree Protection Waterproof Mattress Protector

Bamboo fabric helps protect your mattress against dirt and spills, as well as normal wear. The cover is ultra-soft and comfortable, with a breathable membrane that wicks moisture to help keep you cool while you sleep. The material is noiseless, so you'll have the same sleeping experience you did before you installed it.

Overall Take

Natural MaterialMade from bamboo, this protector is a soft, eco-friendly way to protect your mattress while you sleep.

 We Also Like

Utopia Bedding Full Encasement Zippered Mattress Protector

Utopia Bedding

Full Encasement Zippered Mattress Protector

The stretchable polyester in this mattress cover makes it both easy to put on and comfortable. The zippered cover holds the cover in place all the way around to ensure the mattress is fully protected at all times. It's available in sizes from twin to California king and comes in sets of one, two and 10 for those who have multiple mattresses to cove...

Overall Take

Deep PocketThis mattress protector is perfect for deeper mattresses — it can fit mattresses up to 13 inches deep.

 Strong Contender

FGZ Waterproof Diamond Stitching Mattress Protector

FGZ

Waterproof Diamond Stitching Mattress Protector

You'll get premium water resistance with this mattress protector, including safeguarding your mattress against spills and bodily fluids. The membrane is covered in ultra-soft 80% cotton terry, which makes it comfortable to the touch. The mattress protector is made from a quiet fabric, so you won't have to worry about unpleasant noises as you move a...

Overall Take

Protects Against Leaks and StainsThe water-resistant TPU membrane keeps liquids from getting to your mattress, including sweat, urine and body fluids.

What to Look For

  • The standard mattress depth is 12 inches, but you can find some that can handle mattresses that are deeper, including 14 and 15 inches. If you have a thinner mattress, such as one on a Murphy bed or RV bed, you might need a low-profile mattress protector, which is sized to cover a depth of 9 inches or so.
  • Although it’s important for a mattress protector to keep moisture out, one that’s breathable will prevent moisture from building up beneath it.
  • If eco-friendliness is a concern for you, consider a mattress protector made from natural fabric like bamboo. Also, look for one that’s vinyl-free.
  • Some mattress protectors are made from material that rustles as you move around on it. Look for one made from polyester or cotton to make sure you’re getting a noiseless experience. Natural bamboo fabric will also be quiet.
  • You can find mattress covers sold in sets, which can be helpful if you’re covering multiple mattresses in your home.
  • Many mattress protectors advertise comfort. Although you won’t be sleeping directly on the protector itself, it can give you a little extra softness underneath your fitted sheet.

More to Explore

Hotels typically use mattress protectors to prevent bed bugs. But not all mattress protectors keep bed bugs at bay. A bed bug mattress protector has a built-in zipper that traps everything inside it, so it won’t be as breathable as other types of protectors. With this type of protector, once the zipper is fully sealed, any bed bugs in the mattress won’t be able to get out.

A bed bug mattress protector will typically kill off bed bugs within two weeks of being installed. But if you have this type of protector, don’t just leave it on for two weeks. Having it in place will prevent new bed bugs from getting into the mattress, and mattresses are by far the most popular place in the home for bed bugs to hang out.

More to explore