My name’s Kieran and I have a confession to make.
I am… an extremely sweaty sleeper.
Sometimes it’s otherworldly!
There is a reason for me telling you this, bear with me. Regularly suffering from night sweats has cultivated my love for one bedding essential:
The mattress protector.
A mattress protector will increase the life of your mattress and keep your mattress fresh. Getting a waterproof one means that spills are a worry of the past. Or you can get a quilted non-waterproof one that will protect it from dust mites and minor spills.
So, here is my guide to getting yourself the perfect mattress protector! I’ll talk you through what you should expect from a mattress protector and give you some reviews of the best ones available, along with links to where you can buy them online.
Check out the table below for a rundown of the best mattress protectors or read on for more in-depth reviews.
- Top Pick and best For Hot Sleepers – John Lewis & Partners Natural Cotton Quilted Mattress Protector
- Top Waterproof Mattress Protector – John Lewis Waterproof Quilted Protector
- Deep Fit choice- Panda Bamboo Mattress Protector
- Luxury Choice – Tempur Waterproof Mattress Protector
- Budget Pick – House by John Lewis Quilted Microfibre Mattress Protector
Table of Contents
The Five Best Mattress Protectors Reviewed
Now that you know more about the kind of mattress protector you want, here are the three best mattress protectors on the market. With each one, you’ll find a short review and a link to where you can buy it online.
1. Top Pick For Hot Sleepers – John Lewis & Partners Natural Cotton Quilted Mattress Protector
Waterproof: No
Material: Cotton
- Machine washable
- 2 Year Guarantee
- Great Price
- 100% Cotton
- Hypoallergenic
- Needs washed on a cold wash to avoid shrinking
This is the mattress protector I use. It’s breathable helping me keep cool through the night compared to a waterproof one which can trap in heat and the quilted layer brings a little softness to my memory foam mattress.
As I said, it is not waterproof, but it can handle minor spills or small amounts of liquid.
It’s budget-friendly and comes in a range of sizes, from small single through double to king size and super king size.
The Micro-fresh technology inside also reduces bacteria growth and keeps the fabric 99.9% germ-free making it a great anti-allergy mattress protector and perfect for keeping away bed bugs.
It’s a fitted sheet style and deep fit up to 35 cm. The perfect mattress protector for cooling and keeping your mattress safe, just make sure you wash it on a cold wash to avoid it shrinking. However, if you need a waterproof mattress protector then read on.
2. Top Waterproof Mattress Protector – John Lewis Waterproof Quilted Protector
Waterproof: Yes
Material: Cotton
- 2 Year Guarantee
- Waterproof
- Breathable
- Machine Washable
- Hypoallergenic
In my opinion, this is the best waterproof mattress protector you can get.
There’s no nasty plastic feeling and you can hardly tell that’s it waterproof when you lie on it. The quilted top just feels luxurious!
It’s a blend of cotton and polyester knitted with polyurethane with the quilted section being like a thin mattress topper filled with polyester.
It’ll fit on any mattress up to 32cm deep, so it should be suitable for most people.
The Micro-Fresh technology is award-winning and is special because of the hypoallergenic material built into the mattress protector. It adds an extra layer of protection so no germs, no bacteria, and no dust mites!
The only downside is that it can’t go into your tumble dryer but it can be hung up no problem.
The best waterproof mattress protector around, ideal for bed wetting, available in single, double, king size and super king size.
3. Extra Deep Fit – Panda Bamboo Mattress Protector
Waterproof: Yes
Material: Bamboo Rayon
- 32 cm deep fit
- Minimal Rustling
- Antibacterial
- Machine washable
- 2-year guarantee
I always prefer a non-waterproof mattress protector, but I did like the Panda protector, it’s got minimal amounts of rustling when you move about on it and the bamboo rayon alongside the cotton is nice and soft.
Plus they’ve got a huge range of bed sizes from cot and cot bed all the way up to Emperor including the EU sizes which are slightly different to the UK ones.
The bamboo is antibacterial and hypoallergenic helping protect the skin and prevent any allergies flaring up. And it’s been Oeko-Tex Standard 100 tested to ensure it’s safe for babies and sleepers who suffer sensitive skin.
It’s got a deep fit 32 cm that should go over most beds and ensure your new mattress is completely protected.
4. Luxury Choice – Tempur Waterproof Mattress Protector
Waterproof: Yes
Material: Rayon
- Machine Washable
- Tumble Dryer Friendly
- 10 Year Guarantee
- Waterproof
- Can Sleep Directly on the Protector no sheet Required
This one was designed for Tempur mattresses but you can still use it if you have a different one.
This protector is incredibly high-quality, so much so that you can sleep straight on this without having to put a sheet on top of it. And it’s waterproof!
It can go into the washing machine and the tumble dryer and straight back on the bed, which will be ideal if there’s a little person in your life who still has accidents from time to time.
Unbelievably, Tempur have a ten-year guarantee and considering that you sleep directly on this, the guarantee is really awesome.
A high-quality protector that will keep your bed dry, you won’t be disappointed!
5. Budget Pick – House by John Lewis Quilted Microfibre Mattress Protector
Waterproof: No
Material: Microfibre
- Machine washable
- 30 cm deep
- 2-year guarantee
Not a huge range of sizes available for this one but you get the important ones: single, double and king size.
It’s pretty basic all-around, microfibre so not great breathability and not waterproof, but it is very cheap and will protect your mattress, plus it’s quilted so you get an extra comfort layer.
It’s also fitted as opposed to straps so it doesn’t move around and will keep your whole mattress protected.
An excellent and affordable mattress cover.
HOW DOES A MATTRESS PROTECTOR WORK?
Let’s start with the obvious. A waterproof protector keeps moisture away from the mattress. This stops those big yellow stains from appearing and stops the growth of bacteria.
It does this in two ways, which I just touched on.
The first is that it stops moisture getting to your mattress. This means you won’t get those big yellow stains and you won’t get bacteria growth in your mattress.
The second is that it stops dust mites from being able to get inside your mattress, which is brilliant because it’s so difficult to get dust mites out once they’re in.
Many people have allergies to dust mites which can cause blocked or runny nose and scratchy throats in the morning. Dust mites also belong to the same family as spiders. Gross.
Most mattress protectors are also machine washable, which further helps this problem.
WHAT SHOULD I LOOK FOR IN A MATTRESS PROTECTOR?
There are four things that you should consider when you’re looking for your mattress protector:
1. Is it machine washable?
Your mattress protector is effectively catching all the bacteria and dirt before it can get to your mattress, so being able to wash it is really important. That’s why all the mattress protectors that I’ve recommended can be chucked in the washing machine. Nice and easy!
2. Is it waterproof?
This is arguably the most important factor if you’re a sweaty sleeper (like me) or if you’re buying this for a kiddo who hasn’t grown out of wetting the bed yet.
There’s a sweet spot with buying a waterproof mattress protector, since you want something functional that doesn’t rustle or make you feel like you’re in a hospital bed.
You need a good quality blended fabric protector.
3. Is it breathable?
This is really important, since you don’t want any liquid or bacteria to get trapped in your mattress with a binding mattress protector.
A breathable one will let air flow between you and your mattress and it’ll also stop you from overheating.
4. Is it made from a comfortable material?
You’re going to be lying on top of this mattress protector, so it should definitely be comfy! There’s no point in having a new mattress or high-quality bedding if the thing in between is jabbing or tickling you all night.
Other Mattress Protectors, I Reviewed By Material Materials Explained
There are a few different materials that are most common in mattress protectors so I’m going to go into a little more detail in each of them
Cotton Mattress Protectors
These are best for hot sleepers because the natural material is breathable and helps wick away moisture keeping you cool and comfortable.
And it’s double sided because the cotton actually works to help keep you warm in winter through its temperature regulating properties.
Not usually waterproof unless it’s a cotton blended with something like a polyurethane material that can make it waterproof. The consequence of which is you lose some of the breathability and it starts to rustle a little.
You also have the added benefit that cotton is longer lasting than most man-made materials so if you but a cotton protector that’s also machine washable you could be looking at a great investment and some really long-lasting bedding.
And while it’s under your sheet so not a huge factor it’s very soft feeling which although you don’t feel directly does add to the overall comfort of your bed.
My favorite material of mattress protector.
Silentnight Pure Cotton Mattress Protector
Waterproof: No
Material: Cotton
- Hollowfibre filling
- Machine washable
- single, double and king size
Silentnight always do you right and this cotton protector is no different, it’s a mattress pad with a layer of hollowfibre to add a little comfort while the cotton is fantastically soft keeping your bed clean and protected.
A great price and not a bad choice at all.
Soak and Sleep Luxury 100% Cotton Quilted
Waterproof: No
Material: Cotton
- Single through to Super king including EU sizes
- 200 thread count
- Good breathability for hot sleepers
This is a great choice of mattress protector for a memory foam mattress. It’s available in a huge range of sizes and you can’t go wrong with a nice thick quilted top for room to breathe and some nice softness that sits on top of your bed. And it comes from a trusted brand, Soak and Sleep have been delivering top quality bedding for many years now.
The Bettersleep Company Egyptian Cotton
Waterproof: No
Material: Cotton
- Luxury Egyptian cotton
- Available as single, double, king size and super king size
- Machine Washable
Nothing says luxury like Egyptian cotton, superbly soft and antiallergenic, plus this too has the quilted cover to give you added softness and a great feel to your bed.
Bring hotel quality to your home with this protector.
Rayon Mattress Protectors
Rayon is quite a strange material because it’s technically man-made but it’s made from natural fibers, usually wood or bamboo pulp believe it or not.
You get a lot of different blends of rayon, my favorite being bamboo, but generally, they are soft, breathable, naturally wrinkle-resistant, biodegradable and environmentally sustainable.
Bamboo, in particular, is a great choice if you care about the environment because it is sustainable and grows happily and quickly in many parts of the world.
Reyon is often combined with another natural material like cotton to make it that little bit softer and more delicate on the skin.
LUCID Super Soft Rayon from Bamboo Jersey Mattress Protector
Waterproof: yes
Material: Bamboo Rayon & Cotton
- Hypoallergenic
- 70% bamboo rayon and 30% cotton
- Fitted sheet design
- 15-year warranty
The jersey weave makes it really nice and soft and minimizes any sound that can come from having a waterproof mattress protector.
Under the soft outer fabric is the vinyl-free waterproof membrane that works to block all liquids and keeps out dust mites and other allergens.
What’s really impressive is that this comes with a 15-year warranty that means it will last an incredibly long time. Get this on your child’s mattress and it’ll last them till they move out!
Polyester Mattress Protectors
Polyester is cheap and cheerful, it’s not overly breathable and can sleep a little hot but it’s usually quite cheap and often used as part of a waterproof mattress protector.
They’re strong, durable and quick drying which can be useful if you’re needing a protector for a bed wetter.
It’s not my first choice of material but it’s tried, tested and very affordable so it’s one to consider.
Silentnight Quilted Protector With Straps
Waterproof: no
Material: polyester
- Held in place with straps
- 30 cm deep fitting
- Hollowfibre filling on top
Silentnight have done it again, this time with a more affordable model that can work to protect any new mattress, or an old one for that matter!
Rather than fitting like a bed sheet, this is held in place with four elasticated straps that each work to hold it in place. It’s a breathable fabric that comes with a two-year manufacturers guarantee.
HAPPY SLEEPING!
RELATED READING
Best Mattress Topper – The Expert Buyer’s Guide
Comments (6)
Hi Kieran …
I have just bought a new (standard double) mattress (33cm deep) & want to make the right decision so would value your opinion. The previous mattress had a complete mattress cotton (non-waterproof) cover so still looks like new. On top of that, there’s to be a double electric blanket (with ties at corners which I’m replacing for a new similar one, therefore eliminating the need for too many fitted things), then the sheet. The both complete mattress covers (John Lewis) do not recommend the use of an electric blanket. It is not essential to have a waterproof cover (but a good idea). I like the idea of a breathable cotton cover but must accommodate the 33cm depth. Most of our household needs come from J Lewis. The Tempur appealed because of the back pain issue. a tall order, I know but can you assist with helping me to make the right decision, please? Thank you
Hi Jennifer!
Thank you so much for stopping by! Having read all the info above I think this John Lewis Mattress Protector it’s Silk (not cotton but still great) can work up to 35cm deep and no warning against electric blankets. Hope that helps!
Hello and thank you for your very valuable research
I have just taken delivery of my new sealy posturepedic bed as of Friday there and I am delighted that I seem to have made the right choice having tried it several times in the furniture shop because of my previous matches being too old and far too soft giving me back pain and pressure points and immensely warm all causing me to constantly waking up in the night every time I try to turn over or find another cool bit the first night I slept in my new bed has made a huge difference on all levels already just with one night
Being so delighted I have coarse one to protect the mattress but most of the mattress protectors seem to say that they I made of quilting which adds an extra layer of comfort to the mattress which is not what I want I want to be able to feel the benefit of my new orthopaedic mattress through lying on it and not to have too much padding certainly as little padding as possible with a mattress protector
It doesn’t have to be waterproof for me but I would be interested in either option
I would be extremely appreciated if you could advise your thoughts on what may be available to meet the above criteria or especially so that I can still feel the benefit and the Contours of my new orthopaedic bed I thank you very very much indeed for your time
I have used the all cotton John Lewis mattress protector mentioned here for a year. I was told that there might be some shrinkage and I should try to stretch it after washing (at 40 degrees). I have done this with my husband and I playing tug of war with them in all directions and both protectors have shrunk so much that they do not cover the bed any more. I have been offered a refund and will return them when I can find a suitable replacement.
What cover can I use that will not shrink and fit a deep mattress? I do not want to use any man made fibres and do not need it to be waterproof. I would be very grateful for any help that you can give me.
Hi Alison,
Sorry to hear that and thanks for letting me know, it’s not a problem I’d heard of before. Glad you’re getting the refund because that shouldn’t really happen. I’m just about to test out and am very excited by the new Panda bamboo mattress protector, it’s 32 cm deep and bamboo isn’t man made so could be just what you’re looking for so that’s what I’d recommend. You can find it here.
Thanks Kieran. I hope you find it a positive test drive. Bamboo is an excellent renewable (better than cotton), I just hope the protector doesn’t wear out as quickly as my husbands bamboo socks!