Written by
Amanda Doyle
Sleep Researcher Writer
Reviewed by
Pavel Ufimtsev
Sleep Science Coach
Whether you’re a hot sleeper or an owner of a brand new mattress, the best mattress protector is the one that you’ll use consistently.
For those on an older mattress that needs a bit of fluff, you can find a protector that offers a bit of cooling cushion in this listing! Finally, the best mattress protectors need protection.
Unless your instructions say to dry clean your mattress protector, make sure you do not subject your mattress protector to heat; you will destroy the waterproofing layer.
GhostBed GhostProtector Mattress Protector
Avocado Organic Waterproof Mattress Protector
Best Organic
Avocado Organic Waterproof Mattress Protector
Brooklyn Bedding Luxury Cooling Mattress Protector
Cooling Runner Up
Brooklyn Bedding Luxury Cooling Mattress Protector
Nolah Bamboo Waterproof Mattress Protector
Very Comfortable
Nolah Bamboo Waterproof Mattress Protector
10 Best Mattress Protectors Reviews
1. Top pick: GhostBed GhostProtector Mattress Protector
Hot sleepers who are tired of waking up sweaty will love the GhostBed GhostProtector Mattress Protector. This mattress cover is designed and manufactured to not only stay cool but to hold snugly to your mattress.
This cooling mattress protector has a 2 inch elastic band to maintain a snug hold on your mattress; no more waking up on creases and crumples. If you suffer from allergies, this may be the best mattress protector to keep you breathing easy no matter the season.
Dust mites and other allergens have no place to linger thanks to non-migrating antimicrobial technology.
Pros
- These are woven to keep you cool on any mattress; these may be the best mattress protectors for those prone to overheating at night
- This comes in multiple sizes, including twin xl full queen king cal king and split king
- GhostBed offers terrific bargains and many coupons; if you sign up for coupons and offers, you can get a great deal on your mattress protector
Cons
- This is not returnable, so make sure you measure and get the right size
- You must follow the washing instructions to maintain the waterproof protection
- If you follow the instructions and air dry your mattress cover, you must make sure it's completely dry before you put it back on the bed
GhostBed GhostProtector Mattress Protector
- This washable mattress protector is easy to clean up; simply wash it in cold on the gentle cycle. Dry on low heat with your sheets or air dry if possible.
- If you need a breathable, waterproof mattress protector, the GhostBed is ideal.
- These mattress protectors are made of a cotton blend; no rustling or wrinkling will be audible as you snuggle in!
2. Runner Up: Purple Mattress Protector
For those who like a tall mattress or have toppers layered on top of their mattress, the Purple Mattress Protector is a terrific choice.
This mattress protector is designed like a sturdy fitted sheet and is built of 5 layers to both wick away moisture to cool you and stop moisture from seeping into the mattress. If you like your first cup of coffee in bed, a spill won't ruin your mattress.
This mattress protector also has some stretch; side sleepers who need a little flex as they sink into their mattress can snuggle in with no crinkling.
These mattress protectors also offer protection against dust mites and other allergens.
Pros
- The multiple layers of this mattress protector can help your mattress last longer, especially if you are a hot sleeper
- Your Purple Mattress protector comes with a 10 year warranty
- This product also comes with a 30 day return; if you find that it doesn't fit right or causes you to overheat, you can get your money back
Cons
- This mattress protector is water resistant, not waterproof
- Because it has some stretch, you may need to wash this more often to get good cling to a lower mattress
- This mattress protector needs to be tumble dried on low and may take a while to fully dry
Purple Mattress Protector
- This mattress protector will fit a mattress up to 15 inches thick.
- The bands of this mattress protector are designed to fit snugly around your mattress no matter how many layers you have stacked.
- This mattress protector is water resistant and will keep you cool by wicking away moisture.
3. Best Cooling: Nest Bedding Cooling
Hot sleepers rejoice! The Nest Bedding Cooling mattress protector may well be the best mattress protector for those who struggle with overheating. This mattress protector is formulated with a cotton top and a polyester spandex skirt.
This waterproof mattress protector is layered to provide a consistent water barrier against spills and perspiration.
You can get this in twin twin xl full queen king and cal king. While your mattress is protected from moisture, you will be protected from allergens and dust mites.
Pros
- Nest Bedding offers both great sales and financing; if you're ready to treat yourself to a mattress protector and organic cotton sheets before the summer heat hits, sign up for their emails to get the best deal for you
- You can double up on protection if bed bugs or allergies are a serious issue; start with the encasement and protect that with the five sided protector to keep dust mites and allergens down
- These are truly waterproof, not just water resistant
Cons
- Because this will wrap around a mattress up to 18 inches thick, some users find it a bit crinkly
- You can ruin this mattress protector by exposing it to heat in the washing and drying process; handle with care!
- If your mattress is large, getting it in and out of the casement protector could be a challenge
Nest Bedding Cooling
- The Nest mattress protectors can be easily laundered in cold on the delicate cycle and tumble dried on low to maintain your cooling protection.
- If you've struggled to find the right cooling mattress protector, you can sleep on this for 30 nights before making your decision.
- You can get these best mattress protectors either as a full encasement, which zippers around the mattress, or as a five sided protector, which goes on like a fitted sheet.
4. Best Organic: Avocado Organic Waterproof Mattress Protector
If you can't stand the thought of a crinkly bed, the Avocado Organic Waterproof Mattress Protector is a terrific option.
This organic cotton is designed to shrink a bit. It's also available in both a deep pocket and a standard pocket. The longer you own this mattress protector, the more snugly it will fit. It is critical that you wash your mattress protector in cold water on the delicate cycle and tumble dry on low; adding heat to your mattress protector may damage the waterproofing layer.
This organic cotton cover wicks moisture away from your skin so you can stay nice and cool, but proper care for your mattress protector will keep the moisture away from your mattress.
Pros
- For those with environmental sensitivities, this product is organic along every step of the way
- Each size offers the deep or standard pocket sizing option; you can custom fit your mattress protector for a smooth and quiet sleep
- Shipping is free, financing is available, and you can get package discounts
Cons
- If your allergy concerns are serious, be aware that Avocado can't promise this mattress protector is an allergen barrier because it doesn't encase the mattress
- This item only comes with a 1 year warranty
- It may takes 3 washings to achieve full shrinkage and snugness
Avocado Organic Waterproof Mattress Protector
- Having a shorter pocket option means that you can purchase a mattress protector that will not slide around, make noise, or crease under you as you snuggle in.
- This mattress protector is built to shrink. Plan to wash this before you use it.
- You can test drive this mattress protector for 100 nights before you make your final choice.
5. Very Durable: Layla Full Encasement Mattress Protector
Unlike many modern mattresses, the Layla mattress line is flippable. The Layla Full Encasement Mattress Protector and mattress cover makes this feature even more enjoyable.
You can get the Layla mattress protector either as a simple cover that fits like a sheet. You can also get cooling mattress protectors from Layla. Finally, you can get an encasement protector to wrap the whole mattress up.
Because a new mattress can be quite an investment, you may want to pair a full encasement protector and a cooling cover to protect you both from overheating and from exposure to bed bugs.
Pros
- The Layla mattress protector is built from the bottom up of silent materials
- You can triple the life of you mattress with a full encasement mattress protector
- You can test drive this mattress protector for 30 nights and still get your money back
Cons
- All of these mattress protectors fit up to 14 inches deep. If your mattress is firm or low loft, this may be too much play
- You will need the full encasement for full allergen protection and protection against bed bugs
- The poly skirt and waterproof layer are both sensitive to laundry heat; make sure no heat is applied to any part of these mattress protectors
Layla Full Encasement Mattress Protector
- Layla mattress protectors are designed to fit snugly. Crinkle-free sleep!
- This company offers plenty of chances to sign up for discounts and bargains. Once you choose the mattress protector you want, give them your email address and watch the discounts roll in.
- The cooling topper offers both moisture protection and a bit of cushion; side sleepers can always use a bit more squish.
6. Cooling Runner Up: Brooklyn Bedding Luxury Cooling Mattress Protector
Hot sleepers have many options on this listing, and the Brooklyn Bedding Luxury Cooling Mattress Protector is both a bargain and a blessing. This hypoallergenic and quiet mattress protector offers protection against bed bugs, allergens, and heat build-up.
This mattress protector covers your mattress snugly, just like a fitted sheet. These mattress protectors are woven to be smooth and cool to the touch while offering plenty of airflow to the mattress to keep you both protected and cool.
You can get this mattress protector in sizes from twin all the way to cal king. Not only does this mattress protector keep your cool mattress cool, but it can actually cool down a mattress that leaves you sweaty and exhausted.
Pros
- You will have 30 days to test out this mattress protector to be sure it keeps you cool
- This mattress protector comes with a three year warranty
- All of the materials in this mattress protector are waterproof
Cons
- This mattress protector is not organic cotton; it's a breathable elastic. If you are sensitive, make sure you allow it to air
- Because the mattress protector fits like a sheet, you will want to buy the encasement covering if bed bugs are a worry
- If you sign up for email notifications, you will probably get a lot of them, but the discounts are excellent
Brooklyn Bedding Luxury Cooling Mattress Protector
- You can pair this with a mattress encasement from Brooklyn for even more protection from allergens and bed bugs.
- While a cool dryer is critical, this mattress protector can be washed in warm water. Avoid bleach!
- The stretchy sides of this mattress cooler will protect a mattress up to 14 inches thick.
7. Best Luxury: Saatva Waterproof Mattress Protector
If you love the feel of cotton, the Saatva Waterproof Mattress Protector is a great choice.
This organic cotton mattress protector includes a waterproof barrier that will last around 5 years when properly laundered. Make sure you wash your mattress protectors in cold water on the delicate cycle and that you tumble dry it on a low setting.
The bands on this mattress protector are silicone; when properly cared for, they will not age and wear out as a rubber elastic will. This mattress protector will not only protect your mattress from spills and accidents, but this cover will reduce the damage that humidity can do over time as well.
Pros
- Because this mattress protector wraps all the way around the bottom corners of the mattress, you can reduce the risk of bed bugs
- For those who live in very humid areas, the ability to protect your mattress from mildew could make this a critical investment in your health
- This mattress protector will stretch up to 16 inches high.
Cons
- The organic cotton cover is waterproof but the sides are not
- The polyurethane waterproofing layer is food-grade. The risk of outgassing is nil, but if you wash or dry this in anything but cold, you can damage the waterproofing feature
- You can get the protector in sizes from twin to split king, but not the corresponding pad at this time
Saatva Waterproof Mattress Protector
- The silicone elastic will snap back year after year.
- You get 45 days to try out this mattress protector.
- This mattress protector also comes with a 1 year warranty.
8. Very Comfortable: Nolah Bamboo Waterproof Mattress Protector
If you've never felt bamboo fabric next to your skin, you need a Nolah Bamboo Waterproof Mattress Protector. This incredibly soft material will protect you from a hot night's sleep while protecting your mattress from moisture.
This waterproof mattress protector is available in twin xl full queen king and cal king. The Nolah bamboo mattress protector has a long skirt that will cover a mattress up to 15 inches thick and features a snug elastic band that will hold it close to a thinner mattress as well.
Pros
- You get 30 nights to make sure this is the mattress protector for you
- Bamboo fabric is tough; this mattress protector has a 10 year warranty
- Your bamboo mattress protector is made of easily replenishable materials
Cons
- This is stretchy fabric; if you are a very restless sleeper, this mattress protector may pull loose
- Bamboo fabric has a soft texture. Your sheets may cling or rub against this fabric
- If bed bugs are a concern, you may need an encasement cover as well.
Nolah Bamboo Waterproof Mattress Protector
- Bamboo fabric is incredibly soft and naturally antibacterial.
- This hearty mattress cover can tolerate a wash in warm water, though you will want to air dry it or dry it on low.
- This quiet fabric also repels dust mites; if allergies are a worry, a layer of bamboo fabric can help.
9. Softest: Buffy Plushy Mattress Protector
While nearly every mattress protector in this listing features a smooth, flat layer of fabric, the Buffy Plushy Mattress Protector offers cushion as well.
If your mattress is showing a bit of wear or if you are considering adding a topper for softness, this may be the best mattress protector for your needs. The fluffy fiber in this mattress protector is made of recycled water bottles! Unlike mattress protectors with an elastic skirt that can pull loose, this mattress protector features straps to hold the cushion in place.
If you need cushion and coolness, these may be the best mattress protectors for your needs. This is a cooling mattress protector; the fabric is woven of TENCEL™ lyocell fibers and made from sustainable sources such as eucalyptus. You can get your mattress protector in twin xl full queen king or cal king.
Pros
- This mattress protector is built of hypoallergenic layers; you can breathe deep!
- Every layer of this mattress protector is focused on softness and moving heat away from your skin
- The recycled filler material of this mattress protector maintains fluffiness over time
Cons
- This mattress protector needs to be dry cleaned; depending on the speed of your dry cleaners, two may be necessary
- If you love the crisp, crunchy feel of cotton, be aware that eucalyptus fabric has a much softer texture
- This mattress protector offers no protection against bed bugs
Buffy Plushy Mattress Protector
- This soft, plush mattress protector can extend the life of a worn or too-hard mattress.
- You can use this on a mattress up to 21 inches thick; if your current bed has a lot of layers, this mattress protector can hold everything together.
- You get 7 nights to try out your Plush mattress protector before you even get charged for it and 100 nights to return it.
10. Best Budget: Coop Waterproof Mattress Protector
When funds are tight, the Coop Waterproof Mattress Protector is a great choice to keep your mattresses dry and protected no matter how much use it sees.
This mattress protector resists liquids on the top and breathes from the sides. These mattress protectors are made of viscose rayon for soft, quiet protection. If you co-sleep or sleep with pets, this mattress protector can reduce the risk of mattress damage.
Pros
- If you need protection against incontinence, this mattress protector offers great waterproofing
- The weave of this fabric is incredibly quiet; you can install it and forget about it
- This machine washable product just needs cold water and gentle soap; let it air dry and put it back on the bed!
Cons
- There is a bit of grab to the fabric; your sheets may clinge
- If you're not already overheating, you may feel cold on this mattress protector!
- The waterproof backing can take time to dry. Don't put it back on the bed damp
Coop Waterproof Mattress Protector
- This mattress protector is a great choice for those who are too hot on memory foam.
- The stretchy sides will fit most mattress thicknesses and hold your mattress protector snug
- If you want a bamboo mattress protector but can't quite afford it, this mattress protector contains bamboo fibers for softness.
What is a Mattress Protector?
A mattress protector is a barrier layer between the sleeper and sheet and the mattress itself. If you are a hot sleeper, a mattress protector can prevent sweat stains and mildew on your mattress. The mattress protectors listed above can also protect your mattress from spills and incontinence.
If you have a new mattress that contains memory foam and the outgassing is a bother, you may want an encasement mattress barrier.
For those who have a new mattress and are concerned about bugs, you may want to use both an encasement mattress protector and a sheet-style mattress protector to preserve your sleep and your mattress.
Mattress Protector Types
Full Encasement
A full encasement mattress protector zippers all the way around the mattress, top, and bottom. If your mattress is very large or heavy, you may want to pair this with a sheet style mattress protector.
In essence, the encasement protector is protecting the mattress and the fitted mattress protector is protecting the zippered encasement so you don’t have to wrestle your bed out of the zipper every few months.
A full encasement mattress protector is the ideal protection against bugs, dust mites, outgassing odor, and mildew. Those with extreme allergies or asthma could benefit from such a premium hypoallergenic mattress protector.
Fitted or Sheet-Style
Most of the mattress protectors in this review are fitted. Depending on your comfort level and fabric preference, you may find that the best mattress protector for you and your sleeping partner is an organic cotton waterproof mattress protector.
The new technology around layering polyurethane with fabric means that your fitted cooling mattress protector can be waterproof and cool. If you need a hypoallergenic waterproof mattress protector, a fitted mattress protector could be ideal.
Elastic Strap
For those who need a bit more cushion, the elastic strap design may be the best option. These are not the best mattress protectors to guard against outgassing or bugs, but a layer of fluff on your twin xl full queen king or cal king bed could allow you to get more life out of your mattress.
Even better, many plush elastic strap options also act as a luxury cooling mattress protector. If you’ve resigned yourself to a hard bed because you can’t stand the heat build-up, the elastic strap option can offer you both comfort and cooling!
How to Choose the RIGHT Mattress Protector
Comfort
The right mattress protector will be easy to apply and easy to launder. Each of the mattress protectors listed above need to be washed in cool water and dried either on low or allowed to air dry. If you don’t have a spot to hang a mattress protector to air dry, you may need more than one for the easiest use.
Size
The best mattress protector for many of us is the one that doesn’t slide around or make noise.
If you know you need a waterproof mattress protector and like a snug, tight-fitting bottom sheet, the organic cotton from Avocado may be the best option for you.
Cooling
Many of us struggle to sleep cool. The right mattress protector will be woven of fabric that doesn’t contribute to heat build-up.
You can get a luxury cooling mattress protector in a variety of materials; both an organic cotton and a bamboo mattress protector can be both cool and soft. If your budget is tight, poly materials can be used in a cooling mattress protector if correctly woven.
Price
Of course, the best mattress protectors are easy on your body and your budget. However, if your mattress is badly worn or too hard, a premium mattress protector with some cushion can extend the lifespan of your mattress.
For those who can’t sleep because of allergies, a hypoallergenic waterproof mattress protector in whatever size, from twin xl full queen king to cal king, can offer you greater comfort and much more energy during the day.
Washability
The best waterproof mattress protectors can easily be laundered with the rest of your bedding. However, many of us wash and dry our sheets in warm temperatures. A machine washable bamboo or cotton mattress protector may lose water resistance if exposed to high temperatures. To properly wash a mattress protector, make sure you don’t expose it to too much heat.
The poly layer of waterproofing in your mattress cover will not tolerate the heat of a warm or hot dryer. To protect your mattress with a waterproof protector for the long term, get in the habit of laundering your mattress protector separately and immediately hanging it to dry.
Application Management
A full encasement hypoallergenic mattress protector offers the best protection against allergens, mites, and bed bugs.
However, while a mattress pad has straps and most premium hypoallergenic mattress protectors go on like a fitted sheet, full encasement mattress zippers cover the whole mattress.
Since your mattress may be very heavy, consider pairing a mattress protector with your full encasement wrap to reduce the number of times you need to wrestle your mattress out of the zipper encasement.
Even better, hot sleepers may find that doubling the protection increases the coolness!
Why Mattress Protector is a good idea!
Moisture
A quality mattress protector will keep your mattress dry. Whether you sleep with children, pets, or are concerned about incontinence, investing in a waterproof protector can lower your risk of mildew and bacteria build-up within the mattress. Once your mattress mildews, it’s hard to clean fully.
Allergies
A premium hypoallergenic protector that allows you to sleep well without waking up stuffy is critical to protecting your health long-term. Poor sleep can damage relationships and even shorten your life.
Bugs
If your pet has fleas or your apartment has bugs, a full encasement mattress protector is a great investment. A cotton or bamboo mattress protector can also protect you from dust mites and other allergens. Don’t let your mattress be a host to pests!
Pets
One new kitten or puppy can do a lot of damage to your mattress. Mattress protectors that offer a moisture barrier can make house-training a lot easier. Adding a premium mattress protector or mattress pad with a bit of cushion can reduce pet damage and be much cheaper than replacing the whole mattress.
Stains
A machine washable bamboo mattress protector can keep your mattress looking pristine. Even if you know the stains are old, a stained mattress is not as refreshing to sleep on as a spotless, new-looking mattress.
How often Should I Replace a Mattress Protector?
Most mattress protectors will need replaced after 5 years. If incontinence is a big worry, consider a shorter timeline. If this protector is on a guest bed, you probably have more time. If allergens, dust mites or bed bugs are a big worry, consider pairing an encasement with a fitted mattress protector to reduce risk to your mattress.
FAQ
- How does the mattress protector attach to the bed?
Most mattress protectors fit like a fitted sheet; you just put the fitted sheet on top of the protector. Some zip all the way around the mattress and some just have an elastic strap that loops under the mattress.
- What’s the best mattress protector?
That depends on your need. If allergies are a problem, you need something to keep down dust mites. If incontinence is a risk, you may want a full encasement.
- Can a mattress protector help keep me cool?
Absolutely! You can find a cooling mattress protector in cotton, bamboo or recycled poly.
- Should you buy a mattress protector?
Yes, a quality mattress protector can protect your bed from bugs, dust mites and mildew.
- What’s the point of having a mattress protector?
A mattress protector keeps your mattress from collecting moisture from perspiration and humidity. A wet mattress is a haven for bacteria and may grow mildewed over time.
- How do you wash/clean a mattress protector?
Cool water and a low dryer temperature are critical to maintaining your mattress protector.
- Can I iron my mattress protector?
No. Let it air dry and stretch out the wrinkles on the bed to maintain the premium hypoallergenic feature of your mattress protector.
- How do I know if a mattress protector will fit my deep mattress?
Most of the mattress protectors in this listing will stretch up to 15 inches. Check the skirt dimensions.
Stretch Out, Sleep Deep, No Worries!
The best mattress protector in this listing is the GhostBed. Not only does the entire GhostBed line focus on coolness, but this company offers terrific customer service.
GhostBed GhostProtector Mattress Protector
Do take the time to sign up for their email and text alerts; the savings can be significant.
When you’re ready to upgrade your sleeping experience, you can even get great freebies with your new mattress, sheets, pillows and mattress protectors.
