We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. Here’s our process.
A waterproof mattress protector may help protect the mattress from urine, sweat, drool, spills, dust mites, allergens, and bedbugs.
Quick links
- Best breathable protector: Linenspa Mattress Encasement
- Best organic cotton: PlushBeds Organic Cotton Mattress Protector
- Best hypoallergenic: SafeRest Premium Hypoallergenic Waterproof Mattress Protector
- Best bug-proof: Utopia Bedding Bed Bug Proof & Waterproof Premium Zippered Mattress Encasement
- Best for deep mattresses: SureGuard Mattress Encasement
- Best for an undetectable feel: Saatva Waterproof Mattress Protector
- Best for double layer protection: Purple Mattress Protector
- Best bamboo protector: Utopia Bedding Bamboo Mattress Protector
- Best for hot sleepers: Vekkia Mattress Protector
There are some considerations a person should make before choosing a waterproof mattress covering, including:
- Materials: Some individuals may prefer natural fabrics and materials that are soft on the skin and breathable. For example, materials such as
natural wools may help a person fall asleep and regulate their body temperature. - Full or partial covering: Waterproof protectors may attach to the corners of a mattress to protect the surface only, or they may fully encase it with a zip closure.
- Type of protection: Some waterproof mattress covers protect from dust mites, bacteria, and other allergens in addition to liquids.
- Cleaning options: A mattress protector does not typically require specialist cleaning, but a person may prefer to purchase one that specifically states it is machine washable.
Pros and cons
As with most products, an individual may expect some advantages and disadvantages of a waterproof mattress protector. These can include:
Pros
- protection from bodily fluids and spillages
- protection from bugs and mites
- may help alleviate allergy symptoms
Cons
- difficulty finding a good fit that stays in place during sleep
- does not provide added comfort as its focus is practical
- may be noisy to sleep on as the waterproof material may crinkle
Medical News Today chooses mattresses, sheets, pillows, and other bedding that meet the following criteria:
- Certifications: Where possible, products that have CertiPUR-US or other certifications. This means that the products are low in pollutants and free from heavy metals and volatile organic compounds.
- Size: Products that are available in various sizes.
- Materials and fill: Products made from different materials and fills to suit a range of sleep and lifestyles.
- Budget: Products to suit a wide range of budgets.
- Warranties and return policies: Products that carry warranties and clear returns policies.
Mattress protection may help extend the lifespan of a mattress, meaning that a person can wait longer before replacing it.
Below are nine waterproof mattress protectors that people may consider.
Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based and correct at the time of publication.
Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more here.
Best breathable protector: Linenspa Mattress Encasement
- Price: from $19.99–29.99
- Sizes: twin, twin XL, full, full XL, queen, king, and California (Cal) king
- Colors: white
This protector covers the entire mattress and zips shut. According to the manufacturer, it can accommodate mattresses up to 12 inches (in) deep.
The manufacturer states that it consists of:
- a polyurethane barrier that keeps out liquids, dust mites, bed bugs, and allergens
- breathable fabric
- a smooth polyester top that is noiseless and hypoallergenic
The protector comes in seven sizes, and people can launder it in the washing machine and dryer.
It is a more affordable option for those on a small budget. Plus, it may help protect a person’s entire mattress from bacteria, dust, and other allergens that can affect sleep, as it encases the entire mattress.
However, some reviewers state that it can be noisy, so it may not be suitable for light sleepers.
Prices for the Linenspa Waterproof Mattress Encasement start from $19.99–29.99.
Best organic cotton: PlushBeds Organic Cotton Mattress Protector
- Price: from $136–288
- Sizes: twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, Cal king, split king, split Cal king, split queen, sofa bed twin, sofa bed full, and sofa bed queen
- Colors: white
This mattress protector reportedly consists of certified organic cotton on the top and a micro-thin polyurethane layer on the underside.
The manufacturer states that it is 100% waterproof and protects against spills, stains, and dust mites.
The company says the organic cotton releases heat, the underside protects the mattress, and the protector itself is silent.
PlushBeds also writes it is hypoallergenic, fits up to a 14-in mattress, is odor-free, and comes in biodegradable packaging.
According to the brand’s website, this protector has the below certifications:
It is machine washable and compatible with a dryer on low heat. The company offers a five-year warranty but states it is not returnable.
This protector is a good choice for those who want a product that uses certified organic materials that hold additional quality and safety assurance. People may also appreciate the wide range of sizes PlushBeds offers for this mattress protector, making it suitable for a wide range of sleeping setups.
Prices for the PlushBeds Organic Cotton Mattress Protector start from $136–288.
Best hypoallergenic: SafeRest Premium Hypoallergenic Waterproof Mattress Protector
- Price: from $29.99–39.99
- Sizes: twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, and Cal king
- Colors: white
The top part of this protector consists of a hypoallergenic terry cotton material with a polyurethane layer underneath. It can fit mattresses up to 18 in thick.
The manufacturer says that this product protects against:
- bodily fluids, such as urine and sweat
- dust mites
- allergens
- bacteria
The company also recommends it for people with allergies, asthma, or eczema.
According to the company, it is suitable for machine washing and drying.
The protector has a 10-year warranty.
Although online reviews are generally positive, a number of customers report that this mattress protector did not protect against urine. As a result, some said their mattress had irreparable damage.
A person can buy the SafeRest Mattress Protector for between $29.99–39.99.
Best bug-proof: Utopia Bedding Bed Bug Proof & Waterproof Premium Zippered Mattress Encasement
- Price: from $21.99–32.99
- Sizes: twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, and Cal king
- Colors: white
This mattress protector features polyester with a zip enclosure. Buyers can choose from 6, 8, 10, 12, or 14 in depths.
The company states that it is:
- waterproof
- dust mite-proof
- bedbug-proof
It is available in six sizes and is machine washable.
Many customers praise it for protecting them against bed bug infestations. Some report it can feel loose and can be noisy on smaller mattresses.
This mattress protector may suit those with deep mattresses.
A person can buy the Utopia Bedding Premium Waterproof Mattress Encasement for between $21.99–32.99.
Best for deep mattresses: SureGuard Mattress Encasement
- Price: from $37.97–84.95
- Sizes: crib, twin, twin XL, full, full XL, queen, king, Cal king
- Colors: white
This mattress encasement fits a wide range of mattress sizes, from crib mattresses to California king mattresses.
Excluding crib mattress encasements, each product comes in the following depths:
- 6–8 in
- 9–12 in
- 13–16 in
- 17–20 in
This means people with deep mattresses may find SureGuard mattress encasements suitable.
The manufacturer claims that its encasements provide six-sided protection from bed wetting, sweat, and liquid spills and stains.
It also writes that it protects against bed bugs, dirt, and dander.
SureGuard says that the cotton terry encasement is free from vinyl, PVC, and toxic chemicals. The company also claims this product holds GREENGUARD Gold certification.
The encasement is machine washable and comes with a 10-year warranty.
A person can purchase the SureGuard Mattress Encasement for between $37.97–84.95.
Best for an undetectable feel: Saatva Waterproof Mattress Protector
- Price: from $95–230
- Sizes: twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, split king, and Cal king
- Colors: white
Saatva writes this mattress protector is made from Fairtrade Certified organic cotton and uses a thin polyurethane barrier to block moisture. The protector also features micro-perforations that help promote airflow.
The manufacturer states that it protects the mattress from liquid spills.
Its design aims to feel undetectable to users, meaning they will not notice the protector under their sheets.
It is available in seven sizes and can fit on mattresses up to 16 in deep.
It includes deep pockets and a silicone band that keeps the protector in place on the mattress.
Additionally, it is machine washable and comes with a 1-year warranty.
There is a limited number of reviews for this waterproof mattress protector. One positive review states it is quiet, waterproof, and does not move around on the mattress.
The Saatva Waterproof Mattress Protector costs between $95–230.
Best for double layer protection: Purple Mattress Protector
- Price: from $79–158
- Sizes: twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, split king, and Cal king
- Colors: white
This mattress protector comprises 85% polyester and 15% spandex, with a TPU polyurethane water-resistant coating.
It uses an absorbent outer layer and a water-resistant inner layer. The outer layer allows liquids to dissipate, which avoids puddling. The inner layer absorbs the liquid, so it does not reach a person’s mattress.
The company states the product protects the mattress from liquids, dust mites, and dander. It is also stain-resistant.
It is available in seven different sizes, which can reportedly accommodate mattresses up to 15 in deep.
It is machine washable and comes with a 10-year warranty.
Customers mention that this protector is comfortable, offers high levels of protection, and fits well. However, critical reviews mention it did not absorb liquids effectively and can be noisy to sleep on.
A person can order the Purple Mattress Protector for between $99–158.
Best bamboo protector: Utopia Bedding Bamboo Mattress Protector
- Price: starting from $20.99–42.99
- Sizes: twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, and Cal king
- Colors: white
This mattress protector consists of 70% polyester and 30% rayon from bamboo.
In addition, the company says it is:
- waterproof
- dust mite-proof
- hypoallergenic
- machine washable
The mattress protector stretches to fit mattresses up to 15 and 17 in deep, is machine washable, and can go in the dryer on low heat.
It has a fitted sheet design and stretchable sides.
Customers mention that this can hold up to accidents from pets and children, as long as people wash and dry it according to the instructions. The company notes that using harsh washing products may reduce the product’s effectiveness.
This product may suit people who prefer bedding made from natural materials. However, its 30-day warranty is short compared to other products.
A person can order the Utopia Bedding Premium Bamboo Mattress Protector for between $16.99–28.99.
Best for hot sleepers: Vekkia Mattress Protector
- Price: from $24.99–39.99
- Sizes: twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, and Cal king
- Colors: white
This mattress protector consists of organic cotton, polyester, and polyurethane.
The company says it can protect the mattress from bodily fluids, including urine and sweat.
The company also writes that it is breathable and will not make people hot overnight. This may mean it is suitable for those who tend to sleep hot or live in warm climates.
The product fits mattresses up to 18 in and is machine washable. It also has a 10-year warranty.
However, the twin, twin XL, and full sizes can only support 14 in depth.
A person can order the Vekkia Organic Mattress Protector for between $21.99–39.99.
The table below compares each of the waterproof mattress protectors in this article for material, sizes offered, price, and more.
| Best for | Materials | Sizes | Depth (in) | Warranty | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Linenspa | breathability | polyester poly-urethane | 7 | 12 | 10 years | $19.99–29.99 |
| PlushBeds | organic cotton | cotton poly-urethane | 12 | 14 | 5 years | $136–288 |
| SafeRest | hypo-allergenic | cotton poly-urethane | 6 | 18 | 10 years | $29.99–39.99 |
| Utopia Bedding | bed bugs | polyester | 6 | 6–12 | 1 year | $21.99–32.99 |
| SureGuard | deep mattresses | cotton terry | 8 | 6–20 | 10 years | $37.97–84.95 |
| Saatva | undetectable feel | organic cotton poly-urethane | 7 | 16 | 1 year | $95–230 |
| Purple | double layer protection | polyester spandex poly-urethane | 7 | 15 | 10 years | $99–158 |
| Utopia Bedding Bamboo | bamboo options | polyester bamboo rayon | 6 | 15–17 | 30 days | $16.99–28.99 |
| Vekkia | hot sleepers | cotton polyester poly-urethane | 6 | 14–18 | 10 years | $21.99–39.99 |
People looking to buy a waterproof mattress protector for everyday spills such as food and drink do not need to consult a doctor. However, some people may buy them due to bedwetting.
Bedwetting typically affects children and some teens and is usually something they grow out of. However, if a child older than 7 years is regularly wetting the bed, a person may wish to speak with a doctor. In children, persistent bedwetting may be due to genetics, stress, deep sleep, diseases affecting the bladder or kidneys, or urinary tract infections.
If an adult finds they are wetting the bed, they may not want to speak with a doctor due to embarrassment. However, research estimates that
Adults may also urinate during sleep due to a range of health conditions and medications, such as:
- kidney disorders
- diabetic neuropathy
- chronic liver disease
- obstructive sleep apnea syndrome
- sphincter injuries
- spinal cord injuries
- diuretics
- sedatives
- olanzapine
- clozapine
- quetiapine
- risperidone
It can cause anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and chronic fatigue if untreated.
A person should speak with a doctor to discuss the underlying cause and get appropriate treatment if they find they are wetting the bed.
In addition to finding a comfortable mattress protector, adopting sleep hygiene practices may help people
- aiming to go to sleep and wake up at the same time each day
- ensuring that the bedroom is dark, quiet, and relaxing
- making sure that the bedroom is at a cool, comfortable temperature
- removing electronic devices, such as TVs, computers, and mobile phones
- avoiding consuming large meals and caffeine before bed
- exercising regularly
- using stress management techniques, such as mindfulness, meditation, or yoga
Below are answers to some common questions about waterproof mattress protectors.
How do I clean a waterproof mattress protector?
A person can typically clean waterproof fabrics in a washing machine. Many waterproof mattress protectors require users to wash them on low heat settings. A person should avoid harsh washing chemicals to preserve the waterproof properties of their mattress protectors.
How often should I clean a waterproof mattress protector?
People should clean a soiled mattress protector immediately, taking care to follow the manufacturer’s care instructions.
If a person has not spilled anything on their mattress protector, they can wash it when they usually wash their bedding to keep it fresh and reduce bacteria buildup.
How many waterproof mattress protectors should I have?
Individuals can consider having two protectors per mattress so they can use one while washing the other.
What’s the difference between a waterproof mattress pad and a waterproof mattress protector?
A waterproof mattress pad typically adds comfort to a person’s mattress and protect against spills. A waterproof mattress protector will only act as a protective layer on top of the mattress.
Waterproof mattress protectors can help protect mattresses from various fluids, including urine and sweat.
They may also help protect against bedbugs, dust mites, and other potential allergens.
Many different waterproof mattress protectors are available to purchase online, and the best option will depend on a person’s lifestyle and preferences.