Mattress Protector Buying Guide

Is your mattress wearing proper protection?

Do you use a mattress protector? If not, do you know why your mattress needs protection? And how much your risking by not using a mattress protector?

Mattress covers are designed to cover (and sometimes encase) a mattress to protect it from daily wear and tear, shielding it from dust, allergens and spills. But a mattress protector can also help maintain a consistent temperature in the microclimate of the bed, reduce tossing and turning. Some can even improve the comfort-level of the mattress.

Mattress protectors also protect your mattress in a financial way. Regardless of where you buy your mattress, all manufacturers require that your mattress be from soils and stains if a warranty claim is filed. In other words, a dirty mattress voids your warranty. Why so strict about stains? Because of health concerns for people who work in mattress factories – think of diseases transmitted through bodily fluids – stained mattresses (regardless of what caused the stain) can’t be returned for service and/or replacement.

Why are you protecting your mattress?

Before you begin shopping for a mattress cover, protector or pad, it’s important to know why you need one in the first place.

• Protection from everyday wear and tear? Basic cotton cover is all you’ll need.
• Liquids and/or spills? Upgrade to a cover with waterproof fabric.
• Allergens, such as dust mites and pet dander? Invest in one that’s fully encased with anti-allergen properties.
• Bed bugs? A fully encased mattress protector with bed bug barriers.
• Comfort? Cross over to a multifunctional pad or topper.

Add comfort-enhancing qualities to your mattress protector

Mattress protectors are normally a thin, padded and/or quilted protective sheet. Mattress pads or toppers are thicker, quilted slabs that can improve the comfort of your mattress. The style, thickness and size of the mattress cover, pad or topper you choose depends on your (and your partner’s) personal sleeping habits.

Not sure where to begin? Begin by understanding the different fabrics and materials.

• Cotton with latex and/or wool. Best for temperature control & protection. A simple cotton mattress protector is quilted, lightweight and machine washable. Add in latex, wool or moisture-wicking and temperature regulating fabrics and comfort is significantly improved. Mattress pads or toppers with latex and/or wool are dust mite and mold-resistant. They’re generally firmer, durable and waterproof (or water resistant) but not washable. Wool encased in cotton, an old world technology that’s still effective today, works best in the summer months because of its moisture-wicking qualities.
• Memory foam. Best for conforming comfort. If you’re trying to improve the feel of an aging mattress, a memory foam mattress topper may be worth considering. These toppers sit on top of an existing mattress and will mold to your body shape. They can also help with reducing motion transfer between couples. If you sleep hot, steer clear. Most manufacturers recommend using a simple mattress protector along with a latex, wool or memory foam topper.
• Featherbed. Best for customized comfort. If you’re hoping to create a luxuriously soft cocoon, a featherbed filled with down might be perfect for you. They’re lightweight, great for pressure-point relief and can be cleaned simply by hanging outside in the sunshine and fresh air. Like memory foam, they can absorb heat so they’re not a good choice for someone who struggles to stay cool at night. If you’re concerned about allergies, consider a down-alternative mattress pad.

Whether you choose a simple mattress protector or upgrade to a more luxurious mattress pad or topper, you’ll improve the feel and comfort-life of your mattress. And remember, protecting your mattress, protects your warranty.

Rest well & wake up ready to go!

Better sleep gives rise to better mornings, bringing your goals into focus and dreams within reach. Hungry for more sleep info? Dig into these posts:

• How to declutter your bedroom
• 5 golden rules for the best sleep ever
• The essential guide to creating a bed(room) you’ll love sleeping in