If you want to reduce the risk of damage and stains on your mattress, you should consider buying a mattress pad or a protector. These products will help prolong the lifespan of your mattress and keep it in a good condition. Read our buying guide if you want to know more about mattress protectors and pads, and take a look at our top picks, based on in-depth research and analysis.
One of the most important things that you should consider after buying a mattress is how to keep your mattress in good condition for as long as possible. Lowering the risk of damage and stains should be your priority because buying a mattress can be a significant investment. Furthermore, a good mattress means quality sleep, which results in good health and a well-rested body. For a mattress to keep its qualities and long lifespan, it must be taken care of adequately. Accidentally spilling something or getting the bed dirty in some other way can happen to anyone. Unfortunately, this will lead to stains, mold, or some other kind of degradation. Cleaning your mattress will solve your problems only in the short-term because this kind of damage erodes the beds’ longevity. There is also a risk of losing a warranty if something like this occurs. But there is a simple solution. A waterproof mattress pad or protector can help you prevent this, and keep your new mattress safe. It can make your old one last longer as well. Buying a pad or a protector may seem like an additional expense, but prolonging your mattress’ lifespan and preventing degradation can only save you money. You will not be troubled for a long time if you invest in this product.
If you suffer from allergies, hypoallergenic models are also available that will prevent any allergens or other particles that can cause a reaction from reaching your mattress. Most pads and protectors are easily washable, so when they get dirty, you can take them off and throw them into a washing machine with the rest of your laundry.
There are numerous mattress pads and protectors available on the market. To safeguard your bed, waterproof models are most useful. They can come in different styles and designs, have distinct characteristics, and be made from various materials. Read our guide if you want to know more about these products, and hopefully, it will help you choose the right model.
As waterproof mattress pads and protectors vary in looks and materials used, you should find out more about available options so that you can make the right decision. These products are available in several different styles, and the most common ones are six-sided protector, fitted sheet, pad, and fitted pad.
There is an even higher number of materials used in protectors and pads. When it comes to waterproof models, they are composed of two parts: the top cover and the waterproof backing. The top layer can be made from a few different materials.
You can also look for blends of these materials, as producers will mix them to get a soft or smooth feel or enhance the textiles’ performance.
Beneath the top cover is a waterproof backing that is connected by an adhesive. This part is usually made of either vinyl or polyurethane material.
Your mattress protector or pad needs to be cleaned every so often for both aesthetic and practical purposes. Knowing the cleaning process is crucial, because if you do it wrong, you may shorten its lifespan. Most waterproof pads and protectors are washed ordinarily, using a washing machine. But even when doing it this way you need to be careful and wash them in low temperatures. The reason behind this is the adhesive which will degrade at higher temperatures. If it dissolves, the part that provides waterproofing will detach from the top layer of the protector. To minimize the potential damage, you can hand wash it and let it dry. In case of minor spills, you should use a mild soap. However, keep in mind that the more often you wash these products, the faster they will lose their qualities, and the sooner you will need to replace them. You need to find a balance. Don’t wash your pad every day, but also don’t leave it unwashed for so long that it builds up dust or unpleasant smell. Additionally, don’t forget to read the instructions as they contain cleaning advice. If you follow the guidelines and take care of these products, you will prolong their lifespan.
However, even if you take proper care of your pad, it will degrade and lose its practical purpose sooner or later. So, how to know when is the best time to replace your protector or pad? Besides the frequency of washing, materials used in these products can also waver in quality as they get older. It depends on the type of textile, but those of higher quality usually last longer. You should buy a new protector as soon as you notice that materials are becoming thinner or that the stains are getting through it and to your mattress.
There are a few more factors to consider that could be useful when choosing a mattress pad or protector for your bed. Although not crucial, they could help improve your sleeping experience.
Before moving on to product reviews, it is good to know more about the general advantages and disadvantages of these products.
Pros:
Protection – The main reason for buying a mattress protector is that it will keep your bed clean, and lower the chances of losing the warranty
Easy to clean – Once it gets dirty, the protector is easy to clean. It is easier than cleaning the entire mattress, so your time will be saved as well. You can put it in the washing machine or hand wash it.
Affordable – Protectors and pads are cheaper than you think. Their price is around 20$, so it is an excellent investment for keeping your mattress in pristine condition.
Lightweight – These products are lightweight, which makes putting them back onto the mattress easy, and it is easy to move them regularly.
Cons:
Noisy – Depending on the material, some protectors can make noise if you move in bed. If this bothers you, buy a model that is made from cotton or synthetic blend.
Sleeps hot – Most pads and protectors tend to sleep warmer than a regular mattress. If you want to avoid this, look for models that have increased breathability.
Doesn’t add comfort – Most models are there to keep your bed from getting stained or degrading so if you want it to make your sleep more comfortable, keep an eye out for thicker models.
Can Bunch – This is a common downside of fitted pads and protectors. They can huddle up beneath while you sleep, causing slight discomfort and reducing protection. It won’t happen to a six-sided protector, because it completely covers your mattress.
The producers of Bear Mattress are now selling a protector that has the same well-known quality. If you own this particular mattress, this is a perfect addition, although if you have a different one, it will work great regardless. It can cover and protect any mattress up to 20 inches tall.
Thanks to the material that is made using the HeiQ adaptive technology, Bear Protector is entirely waterproof, so your bed will be safe from spills. Its fabric is also highly breathable and will cool you while you sleep, moving the heat and moisture away. If you own a Bear Mattress or Amerisleep Mattress, this protector will further add to their characteristics. Moreover, it won’t hinder the benefits of infrared energy and heat transfer from its unique Celliant covers. The fabric is non-polyurethane, so there are no health risks. As a result of its high quality, the material doesn’t produce any noise, so you can sleep peacefully even if you move a lot. Your bed will also be fully protected from dust mites, bacteria, and allergens. Washing it is simple; you can throw it into the washing machine with any other linen, just make sure to do it cold on the gentle cycle. If you order it online, it will be delivered for free via FedEx. The 100-night trial is available, and a 10-year warranty backs it.
Pros:
This mattress protector will keep you contented in several ways. First of all its bottom waterproof layer is made from polyurethane, which is a food-grade material, meaning that it doesn’t pose any threats to your health as it won’t emit any potentially dangerous chemicals. Nest Bedding Cooling Mattress Protector has a top layer that provides cooling effect with its polyester phase-changing fabric. This type of material moves the heat away from your body, which will give you an ideal sleeping temperature. Furthermore, it makes this protector very comfortable. With this product, you will be able to sleep soundly, as it won’t make any noise if you move in your bed.
This model has deep pockets that can encase almost any mattress. It can cover models that are up to 18 inches tall. Your mattress will be covered on five sides. Washing is easy, as you can use a washing machine. This mattress protector comes in several sizes. Twin XL, King, Queen, Twin, Full, and California King are available. You will also get a 100-night trial period. It is pricier than average, but it has excellent quality.
Pros:
This protector is both waterproof and hypoallergenic, which means that your bed will be safe from spills and degradation. SafeRest Premium Mattress Protector is a fitted sheet style model and comes in all essential sizes, so it is great for any mattress. It is an excellent product for anyone who has asthma or allergies as it prevents dust mites, pollen, or mold from penetrating and settling in. On the off chance that some allergens stay on the surface of the protector, washing it will get rid of them.
The top layer consists of a blend of polyester and cotton that is soft and breathable, making it quiet and cool. Waterproof backing is made of polyurethane, so you can rest assured that no liquids or moisture will reach your mattress. Stains can be easily cleaned using a washing machine.
SafeRest has excellent value, as it is considerably cheaper than the competition while retaining the same quality. Also, a 10-year warranty backs it.
Pros:
If you own a Helix mattress, the same company has produced a protector that will keep it safe throughout its lifetime. But this exceptional product can be used on any other mattress, as it is available in numerous sizes. You can get it in Twin, Twin XL, Full, King, California King, and Queen size!
Helix mattress protector will keep you dry, cool, and comfortable every night. Its material is made from polyester and in addition to being soft, it is very thin so it will replicate the feel of your mattress. The bottom waterproof layer is made of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), and it will protect your bed from spills or stains. This protector is noiseless, and your sleep will be undisturbed, and you can use both the washing machine and the dryer to take care of it. It is also suitable for hand washing.
This product comes with a 100-night sleep trial and a 1-year warranty. By ordering online, you will also receive free shipping.
Pros:
With NASA engineered protection, and performance that will keep your bed safe and comfortable Slumbercloud Dryline Mattress Protector is something special. Its material has patented Outlast™ technology that will regulate temperature and keep you cool throughout the night. The fabric has thousands of microscopic beads, which all have a specific temperature that counters temperature variations. The fabric is a blend of lycra and polyester, which is soft and noiseless. The waterproof layer will protect your mattress from liquids and stains while letting the air in, keeping it fresh. It will cover any mattress up to 16 inches tall. When it gets dirty, you can throw it in the washing machine and dryer for renewed freshness.
Free shipping is available as well as a 60-night trial with a full refund in case you are not satisfied.
Pros:
Tanya is a professional writer and editor with a B.A. in English from the University of Chicago. Tanya has been fighting insomnia for most of her adult life, and she knows firsthand how vital a good night’s rest can be for people with sleep problems.
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