If you check the fine print in most mattress warranties, one of the common conditions included is that stains and other kinds of damage on the mattress will void the warranty.
For online mattresses that come with an in-home trial period, a stained mattress may also be deemed ineligible for a free return.
That’s why it’s a good idea to get a waterproof mattress protector especially when you buy a new mattress.
You should also get one if you have an old mattress because it’s not just stains you need to be worried about.
A waterproof mattress protector keeps your mattress clean, free of germs and free of mould. You’ll sleep better and healthier.
Below I have reviewed the 5 best waterproof mattress protectors you can buy online. I picked them based on their quality, breathability and ease of maintenance among other factors.
But first, some advice for when you are buying a new waterproof mattress protector.
What to consider when buying a waterproof mattress protector
a. Quality
Make sure the protector is actually waterproof and not just claiming to be.
Here, a quick look at customer reviews can tell you what people’s experiences are with the product. If several customers say it leaked, avoid it.
The mattress protector should be able to prevent all kinds of fluids from sweat to water from reaching the mattress.
When you first get the mattress protector, I recommend carrying out a small waterproof test. Pour just a little water on a small area and then remove the protector and see if the water has leaked through.
If it has, consider returning it.
b. Breathable
Look for a mattress protector that is breathable. This ensures it stays cool at night.
A breathable mattress protector is especially important if you have a memory foam mattress which tends to get too warm. It can actually help counter the discomfort from a hot mattress.
Avoid those protectors that make you hot and sweaty. Instead, look for those that have a layer of soft absorbent fabric on top.
c. Hypoallergenic and Healthy
Most mattress protectors nowadays are designed to be resistant to most allergens including dust mites, pollen and mould as well as bacteria and other types of germs.
Also make sure that you are not allergic to the materials used in the mattress protector.
If you are sensitive to the smells and chemicals in synthetic fabrics, look for a mattress protector with an organic fabric surface.
d. Comfort
A mattress protector, waterproof or not, should make your bed more comfortable. Look for protectors that incorporate soft materials such as bamboo fibre or cotton that are gentle against the skin.
Avoid those mattress protectors with low quality materials that make crinkly noises every time you turn. They can be very irritating at night.
A good mattress protector should be soft, silent and comfortable.
e. Size
Before buying a specific mattress protector, make sure that it will fit your mattress.
Size is especially important when you are buying a zippered mattress protector. This is because it’s supposed to enclose the entire mattress. You can’t stretch it like a fitted mattress protector.
Best waterproof mattress protector reviews
1. Waterproof Bamboo Mattress protector
This waterproof bamboo mattress protector is available in 4 size options: king, double, single and super king.
A layer of Polyurethane (PU) beneath the soft bamboo fabric provides 100% protection against entry of any kind of fluid be it water, urine or sweat.
It also keeps away bacteria, dust mites, mould and pet dander, ensuring your mattress is healthy to sleep on.
The bamboo jersey on top provides a soft surface that doesn’t irritate your skin. It is highly absorbent, which keeps the bed comfortable for users with night sweats or incontinence.
Unlike some other waterproof mattress protectors, this one doesn’t make an irritating crinkly noise with every turn thanks to the bamboo fabric.
The fabric also feels cool and breathable. In fact, some users say it made sleeping on their memory foam mattress much better.
It’s super easy to get this mattress protector into position. It has elastic edges all round meaning you just fit it like a regular fitted sheet.
The fitted design ensures it stays in place at night.
As for cleaning and maintenance, you can machine wash it. But do not iron, bleach or tumble dry.
What we like about it:
- Easy to use fitted design.
- Soft, breathable and non-crinkly.
- 100% waterproof.
2. Dreamzie Waterproof Mattress Protector
This mattress protector comes in 7 size options.
Sizes include king, European king, super king, toddler and double among others. It’s perfect for adults who sleep alone, couples sharing a bed and on kids’ beds.
The protector uses a polyurethane membrane to keep away sweat, urine and all other kinds of fluids from the mattress.
At the same time, tiny airspaces allow airflow in and out of the mattress. So the mattress protector never feels hot. If anything, it can help cool down a ‘hot’ bed.
The protector is treated with Bi-Ome® technology which provides protection against common allergens such as dust mites, pet dander, pollen, mould and bacteria.
A soft cotton finish above the waterproof PU layer ensures the mattress protector is soft, cool, breathable and silent when you move.
It is a fitted protector so you should have no trouble putting it on your mattress. Once it’s on, the elastic edges ensure it doesn’t come off at night.
The mattress protector is machine washable at 60C. Dry it at a low setting.
What we like about it:
- Easy to fit onto the mattress and stays secure through the night.
- Soft and breathable non-crinkly cotton finish.
- Anti-allergen protection for healthier sleep.
3. Utopia Bedding Premium Hypoallergenic Waterproof Mattress Protector
This one comes in three sizes: double, king and single.
The polyurethane material provides 100% fluid protection, which ensures no stains or mould on your mattress.
The seams are well constructed to make sure the protector is completely waterproof.
Above the polyurethane material, a cotton and terry fabric provides a soft and breathable surface to sleep on. You can even sleep directly on the mattress protector or fit it under your sheet. It feels comfortable either way.
The fabric also prevents the waterproof layer from making annoying crinkly noises when you turn or move at night.
The mattress protector feels cool thanks to tiny holes that allow air through but not fluids.
The fitted design is a breeze to put on the mattress and it stays secure once it’s been fitted.
Cleaning is just as easy. Just put the mattress protector in the washer and wash with cold water. Dry it on low.
Do not use any bleach or fabric softener.
What we like about it:
- Silent – no irritating noises when you turn.
- Cool and comfortable.
- Easy-to-use fitted design.
4. Bedecor Breathable Waterproof Mattress Protector
If you have sensitive skin that gets easily irritated by many synthetic materials, I recommend this waterproof mattress protector by Bedecor.
Underneath it uses the usual PU material to provide protection against fluids. However, for the part that is closest to your skin, they use 100% organic Tencel.
This is a plant-based alternative to cotton. It’s softer, cooler and more absorbent. It is also hypoallergenic and completely chemical-free.
The Tencel surface prevents any crinkly noises when you turn or move at night.
The mattress protector comes with a fitted skirt that fits snuggly on the mattress. Just make sure you select the right size when ordering. There are various size options including single, king super king, double and cot size.
To clean the mattress protector, just pop it into the washing machine and wash it at 60C. But do not use any bleach. Tumble dry it on low to avoid damaging the PU and Tencel materials.
What we like about it:
- Cool, breathable and soft Tencel fabric that’s also hypoallergenic and resistant to bacteria.
- 100% waterproof.
- Easy to clean.
- Non-noisy.
5. Velfont Terry Towelling Waterproof and Breathable Aloe Vera Mattress Protector
If you are looking for a cheaper waterproof mattress protector, this is a good choice. It’s not as soft or as cool as other protectors but it provides good protection against fluids.
The surface consists of cotton terry fabric that feels soft and minimizes noise from the polyurethane material underneath.
The fabric has been treated with aloe vera for protection against bacteria and allergens.
There are plenty of size options to choose from including small cot and single sizes as well as larger king and super king sizes.
All sizes come with a fitted design that is easy to secure under the mattress. It doesn’t slip off no matter how fidgety you are in your sleep.
The elastic band around the protector can be adjusted to fit mattresses of different thickness.
It’s safe to clean the mattress protector in the washing machine at 95C.
What we like about it:
- Snug fitted design that fits most mattress sizes.
- Aloe Vera treatment for better and healthier sleep.
- Soft, breathable and no-noise cotton terry surface.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How to wash a waterproof mattress protector?
Most waterproof mattress protectors are machine washable. Use normal detergent without bleach and tumble dry on low heat.
Check the care label on your mattress protector for specific cleaning instructions.
To get rid of a small stain or dirt spot, you can spot clean the protector without removing it from the mattress. Gently dab at the spot with water and mild detergent. Leave the mattress uncovered until the spot is completely dry.
In between washes, it’s a good idea to occasionally vacuum the mattress protector to remove dirt particles, pet hair (if you have a pet) and dead skin cells.
Q: Why use a waterproof mattress protector?
A waterproof mattress protector protects the mattress from moisture damage. Moisture, whether from incontinence or an accidental spill of juice or water, can damage and stain the foam. It also encourages bacterial and mould growth in the mattress.
A waterproof mattress protector also keeps allergens like dust mites and dust from settling in the mattress. If you have asthma or allergies, a mattress protector will greatly improve your sleep quality.
Q: How to use waterproof mattress protector?
Just insert the mattress protector over the mattress. That’s all you need to do.
Occasionally wash the mattress protector to keep it clean and fresh.