Best Mattress Protectors (2026): Waterproof, Cooling and Quiet Picks That Keep Your Mattress Warranty Safe
Quick answer
The best mattress protector for most beds is the SafeRest Waterproof Mattress Protector (a cotton-blend terry top over a polyurethane waterproof layer, fitted like a sheet, queen and larger sizes fit mattresses up to 18 inches deep). If your mattress is extra thick, the Bedsure Quilted Waterproof Mattress Protector stretches over mattresses up to 22 inches and is OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified, and hot sleepers should look at the Sleepsteady Tencel Mattress Protector, which has a Tencel top layer and fits up to 18 inches. Before you buy, measure your mattress height (plus any topper), choose fitted for spills or a zippered encasement for six-sided coverage, and read your mattress warranty: many brands can deny a claim for a stained mattress, which is the main reason a protector pays for itself.
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
- Best Overall: SafeRest Waterproof Mattress Protector — cotton-blend terry top, polyurethane waterproof layer, fitted, queen fits up to 18 in deep. Check current price on Amazon →
- Best Deep Pocket: Bedsure Quilted Waterproof Mattress Protector — TPU layer, quilted top, fits mattresses up to 22 in, OEKO-TEX Standard 100. Check current price on Amazon →
- Best Cooling: Sleepsteady Tencel Mattress Protector — Tencel top layer, waterproof, deep pocket up to 18 in, 90-night trial per the listing. Check current price on Amazon →
A mattress is one of the most expensive things in a bedroom, and it is also the one you can never put in a washing machine. One spilled coffee, a pet accident or a summer of night sweats can leave a mark that never fully comes out, and a visible stain can turn a simple warranty claim into a denied one. A thin, washable layer between your sheets and the mattress fixes that. This guide to the best mattress protector picks for 2026 explains what to look for, then compares eight waterproof, cooling and quiet options from popular Amazon listings.
The best mattress protector is not the same thing as a topper. If you want to change how soft or firm your bed feels, start with our best mattress toppers guide; a protector goes on top of the topper to keep both clean. If you are still shopping for the mattress itself, our best king mattress in a box roundup lists the heights you will need to match here. And once the protector is on, finish the bed with our picks for the best queen sheet sets (deep-pocket sheets matter once a protector adds bulk), the best duvet covers and a sturdy base from our best platform bed frames guide. Getting a spare bed ready for visitors? See our guest room essentials list for everything else the room needs.
Best mattress protector picks at a glance
Every detail in this table comes from the product listing on Amazon. “Waterproof layer” is the backing that stops liquid, “pocket depth” is the thickest mattress the seller says the protector fits, and “type” tells you whether it covers the top and sides like a fitted sheet or zips around the whole mattress. We do not list prices because they change often, so use the buttons to see today’s price. Any of these could be the best mattress protector for your bed; the right one depends on your mattress height and how you sleep.
| Mattress protector | Type | Top surface | Waterproof layer | Pocket depth (listed) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SafeRest Waterproof Mattress Protector Best Overall | Fitted | Cotton-blend terry (80% cotton, 20% polyester) | Polyurethane laminate | Up to 18 in (queen, king, Cal king); up to 14 in (twin to full) | Check price |
| Bedsure Quilted Waterproof Mattress Protector Best Deep Pocket | Fitted, quilted | Brushed polyester, quilted | TPU layer | Up to 22 in | Check price |
| Sleepsteady Tencel Mattress Protector Best Cooling | Fitted | Tencel top layer (fabric listed as 69% polyester, 31% Tencel) | Waterproof layer | Up to 18 in | Check price |
| Utopia Bedding Waterproof Mattress Protector Best Budget-Friendly | Fitted, all-around elastic | Terry-style polyester | TPU backing | 17 in (queen listing) | Check price |
| Utopia Bedding Zippered Mattress Encasement Best Zippered Encasement | Six-sided zippered encasement | Knitted polyester | TPU on all sides | Up to 15 in (queen) | Check price |
| Linenspa Waterproof Mattress Protector Best Smooth Surface | Fitted | Brushed polyester | Polyurethane backing | Up to 14 in | Check price |
| SureGuard Waterproof Mattress Protector Best Quiet Cotton Terry | Fitted, stretch skirt | 100% cotton terry | Noiseless waterproof backing | 6 to 20 in (per title) | Check price |
| Graco Premium Waterproof Crib and Toddler Mattress Protector Best for Cribs (Bonus) | Fitted, elastic bottom | Polyester | PVC-free TPU coating | Standard full-size crib and toddler mattresses | Check price |
| BEDLORE Quilted Waterproof Mattress Protector Best Quilted Budget-Friendly Pick | Fitted | Quilted brushed microfiber (polyester) | TPU | 6 to 18 in | Check price |
| PlushDeluxe Bamboo Waterproof Mattress Protector Best Bamboo Viscose Surface | Fitted | Bamboo viscose | Waterproof membrane | Up to 18 in | Check price |
Why your mattress warranty cares about stains
Here is the part most shoppers never read until they need it. Many mattress warranties cover defects such as sagging beyond a set depth, broken coils or seams that split, but they also list conditions that can void coverage, and a stained or soiled mattress is one of the most common. The reasoning is practical: a warranty inspector or a returns center cannot tell a manufacturing defect from damage caused by fluids, and many companies will not handle a mattress with body-fluid stains for hygiene reasons. Some brands go further and say a mattress protector must be used, or that the law tag must stay attached.
Rules differ by brand and change over time, so this is general information, not legal advice. Pull up your own mattress warranty (it is usually on the brand’s website or in the paperwork that came with the bed) and search it for words like “stain,” “soiled,” “unsanitary” and “protector.” If you see them, the best mattress protector for you is simply one you will actually keep on the bed and wash. It is a small cost next to a mattress that may be harder to claim under warranty.
A protector also helps in ordinary ways: sweat and body oils that would slowly yellow the cover get caught by a layer you can launder, and spills can be wiped up and washed out the same day instead of soaking into foam. If you own a mattress with a removable zip cover, check the care label before washing it; many brands ask you not to, which is another reason to keep a washable protector on top.
The 10 best mattress protectors, reviewed
Each pick below lists the facts from its Amazon product page, who it suits and the trade-offs. Sizes and colors vary by listing, so confirm the exact size (twin through California king) and pocket depth on the product page before you order. When we say a protector is quiet or cooling, that is the seller’s description, since we did not test these hands-on.
1. SafeRest Waterproof Mattress Protector: Best Overall
The SafeRest is a popular Amazon listing in the mattress protector category, and it earns our best mattress protector spot because it gets the basics right without asking you to change your bed. The sleep surface is a soft terry cloth made from 80% cotton and 20% polyester, and underneath it sits a 100% polyurethane laminate that the seller says keeps fluids, urine and perspiration from reaching the mattress. The listing describes it as quiet and breathable, and says the terry top avoids the crinkly plastic feel that older vinyl covers had. It goes on like a fitted sheet, with a stretchy polyester skirt that tucks under the mattress.
Fit is where shoppers most often go wrong, so note this detail from the seller’s FAQ: the twin, twin XL and full sizes fit mattresses up to 14 inches deep, while the queen, king and California king fit up to 18 inches. Care is simple but strict: wash before first use, machine wash cold to hot with regular detergent, tumble dry low, and skip bleach, ironing and high heat, which the seller warns can damage the waterproof lining (brown scorch marks are the telltale sign of a dryer that ran too hot). The seller also notes that a fitted protector like this one does not fully seal against bed bugs; for that, see the zippered encasement below. The listing images show an OEKO-TEX badge.
- Cotton-blend terry top over a polyurethane layer
- Queen and larger fit mattresses up to 18 in deep
- Goes on like a fitted sheet
- Sizes from twin to California king
- Low-heat drying takes longer
- Top and sides only, not a bed bug encasement
Best for: Most adult beds, guest rooms and rentals where you want one dependable waterproof layer
Check current price on Amazon →2. Bedsure Quilted Waterproof Mattress Protector: Best Deep Pocket
Thick hybrid mattresses, pillow-top beds and a mattress plus a 3-inch topper can easily reach 16 to 20 inches, which is more than many protectors can stretch over. The Bedsure handles that: the listing says its deep pocket fits mattresses up to 22 inches thick, with an elastic band around the edge to keep it from riding up at the corners. It is a quilted, four-layer design with a brushed polyester surface and a TPU waterproof layer, so it adds a touch of padding while still blocking spills.
Bedsure says this mattress cover is certified to Standard 100 by OEKO-TEX (certificate SHO25 186610), which means the textile was tested for a list of harmful substances. The seller recommends a gentle cycle in cold water and a low tumble dry, and says the stitches are densely spaced to prevent seam slippage. Because the quilting adds a little loft, you may want deep-pocket sheets on top; our queen sheet set guide flags which sets fit thick mattresses.
- Fits mattresses up to 22 in thick
- Quilted top adds light padding
- OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified (per listing)
- Brushed fabric described as quiet
- Quilting makes it bulkier to wash and dry
- Adds height, so check your sheet depth
Best for: Pillow-top and hybrid mattresses, or a mattress with a topper, up to 22 inches tall
Check current price on Amazon →3. Sleepsteady Tencel Mattress Protector: Best Cooling
If you sleep hot, the top fabric matters more than anything else. This Sleepsteady protector uses a Tencel top layer, which the seller describes as softer than cotton and more breathable and cooling than other natural fabrics, designed to wick moisture away so you stay dry. The product details list the fabric as 69% polyester and 31% Tencel, so expect a blend under the hood. It is 100% waterproof per the listing, and the side skirt stretches over mattresses up to 18 inches deep; the seller says that skirt is 50% thicker than competitors’.
Two extras stand out on the listing: a 90-night trial (return it if you do not like it) and coverage of manufacturing defects for up to 5 years. As with any cooling claim, remember that a protector is one thin layer; it can help a mattress breathe better than a plastic-backed cover, but it will not turn a warm memory foam bed into a cool one. Pair it with breathable sheets, and see the hot sleeper tips further down this guide.
- Tencel top layer for a smooth, cool feel
- Waterproof, fits mattresses up to 18 in
- 90-night trial and 5-year defect coverage per listing
- Several sizes, twin to king
- Fabric is a polyester and Tencel blend, not pure Tencel
- Smaller brand than the household names
Best for: Hot sleepers and memory foam owners who want the best mattress protector for hot sleepers without a crinkly feel
Check current price on Amazon →4. Utopia Bedding Waterproof Mattress Protector: Best Budget-Friendly
Utopia Bedding is a budget-friendly brand, and this fitted protector covers the essentials: a soft terry-style surface the listing calls extra absorbent and breathable, plus a TPU backing that resists leaks into the mattress. The queen version measures 60 by 80 inches with a 17-inch deep pocket and an all-around elastic band rather than corner straps, so it grips standard and moderately thick mattresses evenly. The fabric is listed as 100% polyester.
Care instructions are specific: machine wash cold on a gentle cycle, tumble dry low, and do not iron, bleach or use fabric softener (softener can coat the fabric and reduce absorbency). The listing images show an OEKO-TEX Standard 100 badge. Because it is affordable, it is an easy one to buy in pairs, so one can be in the wash while the other stays on the bed. If you want the best mattress protector for a tight budget, start here.
- TPU backing with an absorbent terry-style top
- 17 in deep pocket with all-around elastic
- Easy to buy two and rotate
- Clear care instructions
- No bleach or fabric softener
- Fitted style protects top and sides only
Best for: Kids’ rooms, dorms, guest beds and anyone buying two for easy rotation
Check current price on Amazon →5. Utopia Bedding Zippered Mattress Encasement: Best Zippered Encasement
A fitted protector covers the top and sides; an encasement wraps the whole mattress, bottom included, and closes with a zipper. If you want full coverage, the best mattress protector is often an encasement. This Utopia encasement is six-sided, with TPU waterproof backing on the top, bottom and all four sides, and a wrap-around zipper. The queen fits a 60 by 80-inch mattress up to 15 inches deep, and the knitted polyester fabric is described as non-crinkling and soft so it lies flat under your sheets.
The seller says the zippered design creates a barrier that helps prevent bed bugs from getting in or out, while being clear that it is meant to be part of a broader treatment and prevention plan, since bed bugs also live in frames, headboards and furniture. That matches advice from the EPA’s bed bug guidance, which treats encasements as one tool among several. It is machine washable and can be tumble dried on low. Installing an encasement is a two-person job on a queen or king, and the 15-inch limit rules out the thickest mattresses.
- Six-sided coverage with a zipper
- TPU waterproof backing on all sides
- Knitted polyester described as quiet
- Useful when moving or storing a mattress
- Fits up to 15 in deep (queen)
- Harder to remove and wash than a fitted protector
Best for: Apartments, college moves, mattress storage and anyone who wants the whole mattress sealed
Check current price on Amazon →6. Linenspa Waterproof Mattress Protector: Best Smooth Surface
Not everyone likes the nubby feel of terry cloth under a sheet. The Linenspa uses a brushed polyester surface over a polyurethane backing (the brand calls it an AquaTight barrier), and the listing says the finish is soft, smooth and completely noiseless when you move. It slides on like a fitted sheet and fits mattresses up to 14 inches thick, which covers most standard innerspring and memory foam beds in the 8 to 12-inch range.
Two details make it a smart pick for a primary bed: it is machine washable and dryer safe on low heat, and Linenspa backs it with a 10-year limited warranty. The brand’s own FAQ is honest that it protects the top of the mattress and recommends an encasement for total protection. If your mattress is taller than 14 inches, or you add a topper, choose a deeper option such as the Bedsure. For a standard bed, it is the best mattress protector here for a smooth, sheet-like feel.
- Smooth brushed polyester top
- Polyurethane waterproof backing
- 10-year limited warranty
- Dryer safe on low heat
- Fits only up to 14 in thick
- Top-only coverage
Best for: Standard-height mattresses and sleepers who prefer a smooth, sheet-like feel
Check current price on Amazon →7. SureGuard Waterproof Mattress Protector: Best Quiet Cotton Terry
SureGuard leans into a quiet, natural-fiber top: the surface is pure cotton terry, and the listing calls it soft and noiseless, with a waterproof backing that blocks liquids while letting air flow through. The seller says it is free from vinyl, PVC, phthalates and fire retardants, and that it is independently lab tested and GREENGUARD Gold certified (you can read about what that program covers on UL’s GREENGUARD page).
The fitted, stretchable skirt is listed as fitting mattresses 6 to 20 inches deep, so it works on everything from a thin guest mattress to a tall pillow-top. It is machine washable and dryable, and the seller backs it with a 10-year quality guarantee. The brand’s own tip is a good one for families: buy two per bed, so one is always on the mattress while the other is in the laundry. For light sleepers it may be the best mattress protector on this list.
- 100% cotton terry top described as noiseless
- Fits mattresses 6 to 20 in deep
- GREENGUARD Gold certified per listing
- 10-year quality guarantee
- Terry texture is not as smooth as brushed fabric
- Cotton terry can take longer to dry
Best for: Light sleepers who hate crinkly covers, and families who want the best waterproof mattress protector for frequent washing
Check current price on Amazon →8. Graco Premium Waterproof Crib and Toddler Mattress Protector: Best for Cribs (Bonus)
A crib mattress gets more accidents than any other bed in the house, and the best mattress protector for a nursery is one made for crib dimensions, like Graco’s. It has a waterproof sleep surface with a PVC-free TPU coating and fits any standard full-size crib or toddler bed mattress with an elasticized bottom for a snug fit. The listing says it is GREENGUARD Gold certified, which means it was screened for chemical emissions.
It is machine washable on a cold, delicate cycle and can be tumble dried on low or hung to dry. It comes as a 1-pack or a 2-pack (the 2-pack is handy for 2 a.m. changes), and Graco backs it with a 5-year limited warranty. Always follow your crib and mattress maker’s safe-sleep instructions: the protector should fit tightly with no loose fabric.
- PVC-free TPU waterproof surface
- Fits standard crib and toddler mattresses
- GREENGUARD Gold certified per listing
- 5-year limited warranty
- Crib and toddler size only
- Delicate cycle recommended
Best for: Nurseries and toddler beds
Check current price on Amazon →9. BEDLORE Quilted Waterproof Mattress Protector: Best Quilted Budget-Friendly Pick
BEDLORE’s queen protector is a newer addition for 2026 that adds a little padding without turning into a full topper. The top is quilted, which the listing says locks the filling in place and helps with temperature, and underneath is a TPU waterproof layer that BEDLORE says fully blocks liquids. The brand also calls the fabric noiseless, so it should not crinkle when you move.
The 360-degree elastic skirt fits mattresses from 6 to 18 inches deep, so it works on most standard and pillow-top beds. Care is simple: machine wash, tumble dry on low, and skip bleach and ironing, per the listing. The top fabric is brushed microfiber (polyester), so very hot sleepers may still prefer the Tencel pick above.
- Quilted top adds a little cushion
- TPU waterproof layer
- Fits 6 to 18 inch mattresses
- Machine washable
- Polyester top, not cotton
- Quilting can shift the feel of a firm mattress slightly
Best for: Kids’ rooms, pet owners and anyone who wants a soft, padded protector
Check current price on Amazon →10. PlushDeluxe Bamboo Waterproof Mattress Protector: Best Bamboo Viscose Surface
PlushDeluxe uses a bamboo viscose top fabric that the listing describes as ultra-soft, breathable and moisture-wicking, with a waterproof membrane that resists spills, sweat and urine. That makes it a good fit for potty training, pets and anyone dealing with incontinence. The brand also says it is noiseless and hypoallergenic.
The king size measures 76 x 80 inches and fits mattress depths up to 18 inches with a fitted-sheet style skirt, and the listing says it works on memory foam, latex and spring mattresses. It is machine washable. Other sizes are on the same listing, so pick yours before you check out.
- Soft bamboo viscose top
- Waterproof yet quiet per listing
- Fits up to 18 inch mattresses
- Sizes from the same listing
- Bamboo viscose is a processed fiber, not raw bamboo
- Not an encasement, so it does not cover the sides and bottom
Best for: Hot sleepers, kids and pet owners who want a smooth, soft top
Check current price on Amazon →Mattress protector vs mattress pad vs topper
These three names get mixed up in product titles, and some listings even call a protector a “pad.” The difference is what each layer is for. The mattress protector vs mattress pad question comes down to this: a protector guards the mattress, a pad adds a little cushion, and a topper changes the feel. Want a pad that also adds warmth? See our best heated mattress pad picks, and keep the protector underneath it.
| Mattress protector | Mattress pad | Mattress topper | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main job | Block spills, sweat and stains | Light cushioning and a softer surface | Change firmness and comfort |
| Thickness | Thin, about a sheet | About 0.5 to 2 in | About 2 to 4 in |
| Waterproof? | Usually yes | Sometimes | Rarely |
| Washable? | Yes, in a home machine | Usually | Foam: no; fiber: sometimes |
| Order on the bed | Top layer, under the sheet | Over the mattress or topper | Directly on the mattress |
Most people need a protector no matter what, and some also add a topper. If you use both, the order is mattress, topper, protector, then the fitted sheet, so the protector keeps the topper clean too (and you need a protector deep enough for the combined height). A quilted waterproof protector such as the Bedsure is a hybrid: it protects like a protector and adds a thin pad-like layer. For comfort changes, see our mattress topper guide.
Pocket depth vs mattress height: which size fits?
Even the best mattress protector will pop off the corners if its pocket is too shallow. Pocket depth is the most common reason a protector pops off the corners. Measure from the bottom seam to the top of the mattress at a corner, then add the thickness of any topper. You want a protector whose listed depth is at least 1 to 2 inches more than that number, so the skirt can tuck under the mattress. Use this table to match your bed to the picks above.
| Mattress height (incl. topper) | Typical bed | Look for a pocket depth of | Fits from our list |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 to 10 in | Bunk, daybed, budget foam | 12 to 14 in | Linenspa, SureGuard, all others |
| 10 to 12 in | Most memory foam and bed-in-a-box | 14 in or more | Linenspa (to 14 in), Utopia encasement (to 15 in), SafeRest, Utopia fitted |
| 13 to 15 in | Hybrid, thicker foam | 16 to 18 in | SafeRest queen+ (to 18 in), Utopia fitted (17 in), Sleepsteady (to 18 in) |
| 16 to 18 in | Pillow-top, luxury hybrid, mattress plus topper | 18 to 22 in | Bedsure (to 22 in), SureGuard (to 20 in) |
| 19 to 22 in | Tall pillow-top plus a 3 to 4 in topper | 22 in | Bedsure (to 22 in) |
If your new mattress came compressed in a box, measure it after it has fully expanded. Our king mattress in a box guide lists heights from 12 to 14 inches, which fit comfortably under any protector here rated 16 inches or more.
Mattress encasement vs mattress protector: fitted or zippered?
The mattress encasement vs mattress protector choice is about coverage. A fitted protector covers the top and sides and comes off as easily as a fitted sheet, so it is the one most people wash regularly. An encasement zips around all six sides, which protects the bottom and sides from dust and gives a full barrier when you move, store or rent out a mattress.
- Choose fitted for everyday spill, sweat and accident protection, frequent washing and quick bed changes.
- Choose a zippered encasement for moving or storing a mattress, apartments with a history of bed bugs, or a mattress you want fully sealed. Leave it zipped for the long term and wash it less often.
- Use both if you want full coverage plus easy laundry: the encasement stays on, and a fitted protector goes on top and gets washed weekly.
An encasement alone will not solve a bed bug problem. The EPA’s prevention guide covers the other steps, and a professional is the right call if you suspect an infestation.
How to choose the best waterproof mattress protector
Here is the checklist we used to find the best mattress protector options, in order of what matters most. The best waterproof mattress protector for your bed is the one that fits, stays quiet and survives the wash.
- Waterproof layer: look for polyurethane (PU) or TPU backing. Both are thin, flexible films that are far quieter and more breathable than old vinyl or PVC covers.
- Top fabric: cotton terry absorbs a spill quickly and feels like a towel; brushed polyester is smooth and sheet-like; Tencel or other lyocell blends feel cool and silky.
- Fit: pocket depth at least 1 to 2 inches more than your mattress height, with elastic all the way around if your bed is thick.
- Coverage: fitted for everyday use, zippered encasement for six-sided protection.
- Certifications: if it matters to you, look for OEKO-TEX Standard 100 (see the official OEKO-TEX page) or GREENGUARD Gold on the listing.
- Care: check that it is dryer-safe on low. Every waterproof layer can be damaged by high heat.
- Size and quantity: buy the exact mattress size, and consider two if you have kids, pets or night sweats.
How often to wash a mattress protector
A protector only helps if it stays clean, but washing it too hot or too often wears out the waterproof layer, even on the best mattress protector. This is a practical schedule; always follow the care label on your protector first.
| Situation | How often to wash the protector | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Before first use | Once | Several sellers, including SafeRest, recommend it |
| Typical adult bed | Every 1 to 2 months | Wash sheets weekly; the protector less often |
| Hot sleeper or night sweats | Every 2 to 4 weeks | A second protector makes rotation easy |
| Pets on the bed | Every 2 weeks | Shake off hair before washing |
| Kids, potty training, cribs | After every accident | Keep a spare on hand |
| Zippered encasement | Every 3 to 6 months, or after a spill | Wash a fitted protector on top more often |
- Use cold or warm water and regular detergent. Skip bleach and fabric softener unless the label allows them.
- Tumble dry on low with a couple of towels to balance the load, or hang to dry. High heat can melt or crack a PU or TPU layer.
- Treat a fresh spill right away: blot, rinse the spot with cool water, then wash. Do not iron a protector.
- Make sure it is fully dry before you put it back on the bed so the mattress stays dry too.
Best mattress protector for hot sleepers: 6 tips
A waterproof layer by definition slows the movement of liquid, and some of them also slow the movement of air, which is why older protectors felt hot. Choosing the best mattress protector for hot sleepers is mostly about the top fabric and avoiding vinyl. These tips help:
- Pick a smooth, breathable top such as Tencel or lyocell blends (the Sleepsteady) or cotton terry (SafeRest, SureGuard).
- Avoid vinyl and PVC covers; look for thin PU or TPU backing instead.
- Skip thick quilted protectors if you already sleep warm, since quilting adds insulation.
- Use breathable sheets in cotton percale or linen; our queen sheet sets guide notes which weaves feel cooler.
- Choose a lighter duvet insert in summer and a breathable cover from our duvet cover picks.
- Give the mattress airflow from below: a slatted base from our platform bed frames roundup breathes better than a solid floor setup.
What to check before you buy
- Before you add the best mattress protector for your bed to your cart, confirm your mattress height, measured at a corner, plus any topper.
- The exact size (twin, twin XL, full, queen, king or California king) and the listed pocket depth for that size, since depth can differ by size.
- Fitted or zippered encasement.
- Top fabric you like: terry, brushed polyester or Tencel blend.
- Care: dryer safe on low, and whether bleach or softener is allowed.
- Your mattress warranty terms on stains and protectors.
- The return window and any trial on the product page.
Mattress protectors often see deals during holiday shopping season; check the current price on Amazon before you buy, and consider ordering two so a clean one is always ready.
How we chose these mattress protectors
We did not test these mattress protectors hands-on, so treat this as a research-based shortlist rather than a lab test. In October 2026 we reviewed popular Amazon listings in the mattress protector category and kept products with clear specifications. We read each product page for the waterproof layer, top fabric, fitted or encasement style, pocket depth by size, care instructions, warranty terms and any certification the seller lists, such as OEKO-TEX Standard 100 or GREENGUARD Gold. We then picked eight that cover each common need: an everyday best mattress protector, a deep-pocket model for tall beds, a cooling Tencel option, a budget-friendly fitted protector, a zippered encasement, a smooth brushed-polyester model, a quiet cotton terry option and a crib size. Comfort, noise and cooling descriptions come from the sellers; the sizing, warranty and laundry guidance is our own general advice, and we make no health or allergy claims. We do not quote prices because they change often.
Mattress protector FAQ
What is the best mattress protector for most beds?
For most beds, the best mattress protector on our list is the SafeRest Waterproof Mattress Protector: a cotton-blend terry top over a polyurethane waterproof layer, fitted like a sheet, with queen and larger sizes fitting mattresses up to 18 inches deep. For taller beds, choose the Bedsure Quilted (up to 22 inches); for hot sleepers, the Sleepsteady Tencel.
What is the best waterproof mattress protector for kids and pets?
The best waterproof mattress protector for kids and pets is one you can wash often without damage: the SureGuard (100% cotton terry top, fits 6 to 20-inch mattresses) or the budget-friendly Utopia Bedding fitted protector, bought in pairs so one is always clean. For cribs, the Graco Premium protector has a PVC-free TPU surface.
What is the best mattress protector for hot sleepers?
Look for a breathable top fabric and a thin PU or TPU backing instead of vinyl. On our list, the Sleepsteady Tencel Mattress Protector is the best mattress protector for hot sleepers, with a Tencel top layer the seller describes as cooling and moisture-wicking. Cotton terry options such as SafeRest are also described as breathable.
Mattress protector vs mattress pad: what is the difference?
In the mattress protector vs mattress pad comparison, a protector is a thin, usually waterproof layer that blocks spills and stains, while a pad is a thicker, cushioned layer (about 0.5 to 2 inches) that adds softness and is not always waterproof. A topper is thicker still and changes firmness. Many people use a topper or pad plus a protector on top.
Mattress encasement vs mattress protector: which do I need?
For everyday spills, sweat and accidents, a fitted mattress protector is easier to remove and wash. Choose a zippered encasement when you want all six sides covered, such as when moving or storing a mattress or as one part of a bed bug prevention plan. You can use an encasement with a fitted protector on top.
Can a stain void my mattress warranty?
It can. Many mattress warranties exclude mattresses that are stained or soiled, and some require a mattress protector. Terms vary by brand, so read your own warranty for words like stain, soiled or protector, and keep a washable protector on the bed from day one.
Keep reading: best mattress toppers, best king mattress in a box, best platform bed frames, best queen sheet sets and best duvet covers.
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