10 of the best mattress protectors to safeguard your bed against spills, stains and more

The best mattress protectors provide another layer of protection for your mattress, safeguarding it from spills, sweat, allergens, and bedbugs. 

A helpful addition to the best mattresses, mattress protectors come in a range of different materials, with many boasting waterproof properties. Contributing to better sleep hygiene and ensuring your mattress is shielded from stains, a mattress protector can also cool down hot sleepers and add a layer of comfort to your sleep setup.

So what should you look out for when buying one? And which brands make the best mattress protectors? Here are our top ten picks for all budgets, plus some expert tips on how to choose the best one for your own needs.

How we tested the best mattress protectors

When testing mattress protectors, we considered a few different factors, including...

• Material: Mattress protectors come in a variety of different materials such as wool, cotton, bamboo and polyester. When testing mattress protectors, we considered the materials used and how they felt to sleep atop - was the cotton soft and breathable? Is the mattress protector hypoallergenic and/or waterproof?
• Sounds: Again, different materials are going to cause different outcomes here and you don't want bedding that makes noises as you move around. Waterproof mattress protectors are usually made from polyester, which is more likely to have a louder, 'rustling' sound than, say, wool or cotton.
• Care: The majority of mattress protectors will be easy to clean and dry, but certain materials will need a higher level of care - a wool mattress protector may need to be washed on a particular setting in the washing machine, whereas other materials can easily be washed with the rest of a load and can usually be tumble dried, too.
• RRP: Purchasing a mattress can often be a sizable investment, even before you get to buy the accompanying bedding, pillows, duvets, mattress toppers and/or protectors. The protectors we tested had to provide good value for money and be a worthwhile investment when it comes to the features offered.

Our expert pick of the best mattress protectors

The prices shown throughout our guide are for a UK Double size mattress protector, unless stated otherwise.

The White Company is famed for its gorgeous candles, high thread count bed sheets and luxe homeware, but did you know it's also got your bedding requirements sorted, too? The brand's Luxury Cotton-Rich Quilted Waterproof Mattress Protector sits around the middle on our list in terms of price, which, combined with its all-around great quality, makes it a worthy winner of our 'best overall mattress protector' title. 

This mattress protector is super-soft: it's got a 100% cotton exterior, and a 90% cotton filling (with 10% other fibers). Available in sizes from Cot Bed to Emperor, it can suit any member of the family - we tested it for a King-size bed and found that its skirt was ideal for stretching onto the bed with minimal fuss. Due to its cotton-rich design, there was none of the 'rustling' that can go hand-in-hand with more synthetic mattress protectors and, if anything, we barely even noticed it was there.

An accidental splash of coffee—the perils of breakfast in bed!—that had soaked through the bed's top sheet was effortlessly dealt with by this protector, with the mattress unscathed. One other thing we liked was its neat presentation: it arrived in a small zip-up case that'd be great for storage.

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When testing this mattress protector, we found that it was one of our favorites for a soft, comfortable feel and a relaxing night's sleep. Being 2cm thick, the protector is a heavier option than some others on this list, but this only emphasized the hotel-like feel of the bedding. Customers can choose from either a fitted mattress protector or one that has elastic straps to wrap around the edges of the mattress - we found that the fitted option was easy enough to put on, but was slightly too large for the mattress. This wasn't really an issue though, as it just meant there were no awkward tight spots that stretched the material too far.

While the material of the cover is a thick, quilted cotton and polyester mix, the protector is also breathable enough to cool down hot sleepers. We found that two fairly restless sleepers were soothed of night sweats and regular tossing and turning while testing this mattress protector, which was tested alongside Tielle's accompanying luxury-feel bed linen (the brand offers some of the best sheets, after all). As per the washing instructions, we machine-washed this mattress protector at 60°C, and found that the material didn't shrink or bobble. Oh, and if you're wondering how often should you wash your mattress protector, the answer is every two months. Which makes the easy-care nature of this one all the more appealing.

Since its launch in April 2021, John Lewis's budget-friendly ANYDAY range has received rave reviews thanks to its broad selection of great-quality products at jaw-droppingly low prices. This mattress protector is no exception to the rule. At just £9 for a UK Double (this product is only available in the UK), this is the least expensive mattress protector we've featured on this list.

While it's quilted, it's worth noting that this mattress protector isn't really waterproof; you'll have to pay a bit more if you want that kind of care. However, don't let that throw you. For what you pay, this mattress protector is fantastic value. It doesn't make any extravagant claims and offers a solid level of basic protection. It can be looked after, too; it can be washed and tumble-dried with minimal fuss and seemed to endure both well.

The protector can fit around a mattress depth of up to 30cm, and its 100% microfibre cover is encased around a 100 polyester filling, making this a breathable, comfortable option that isn't too thick. 

Simba is renowned for its tech-forward approach to all things related to the bedroom, crafting everything from its bestselling Simba mattress to the best pillows with carefully-considered genius at their core. So, naturally, the brand's Performance Mattress Protector is no exception. 

Its inbuilt Bi-Ome® protection means that as well as protecting the mattress from spills and stains, it's also shielded from odors, making it a great choice for a bed that regularly sees kids and pets jumping in and out of it. According to the Simba website, the protector "attracts microorganisms and deactivates them on contact, preventing growth and spread".

As well as its clever design, this mattress protector also feels luxurious, with its quality immediately evident as soon as we took it out of its packaging. Thanks to its generous skirt, it's simple to fit on to the bed, and nestled all the way around our non-Simba mattress without the frustration of it rolling up or pinging off in the middle of the night. It certainly kept the bed feeling comfortable and cool, and all-in-all felt like a seriously sophisticated take on the humble mattress protector. 

While this mattress protector is one of the more expensive products in our list, there are often brilliant Simba mattress deals and sales throughout the year which either throw in the mattress protector as part of a bundle, or offer the product at a significantly reduced rate - so keep an eye out for discounts.

For sensitive sleepers, hypoallergenic bedding can play a crucial role in keeping sensitive skin safe from the threat of aggravation or discomfort. Dormeo's Evercomfy Anti-Allergy Mattress Protector promises to do exactly that, offering as much protection to irritable skin as it does to the mattress. Made from anti-allergic microfiber, the protector is breathable and waterproof, at the same time as being super-soft.

Whether it's dust mites and bed bugs or dust particles and bacteria, it keeps it all at bay, allowing skin to breathe. We found it super-easy to fit on to the mattress thanks to its elasticated skirt—if anything, it was fractionally too big, which was handy as it meant we didn't need to worry about shrinkage when we washed it. (And it survived a spin in the tumble dryer unscathed, too.) Extra-quilted, it's designed as much for comfort as it is for practicality, and was really soft to lie on; it serves as a mattress enhancer, if anything, rather than a stereotypical protector. 

Made from 70% sustainable bamboo and 30% cotton, Panda London's take on this bedroom must-have is a great choice for anyone who is trying to live more sustainably. Even its packaging creates minimal waste: it arrives tightly rolled up inside a bamboo drawstring pouch, and we loved the on-brand panda-patterned ribbon. Cute and eco-conscious—we approve.

Far from being 'just' the material it's made from, the bamboo is a key selling point that influences every detail of this mattress protector. Bamboo is a natural repellent to irritants such as bed bugs and dust mites, and it also boasts hypoallergenic properties, meaning it's a great option for those with sensitive skin. Bamboo is also a natural temperature regulator, meaning the mattress protector will keep your bed at a 'just right' temperature that even Goldilocks would be impressed by.

We tested it on a King-size bed and found it was easy to apply. The first thing we wanted to explore was Panda London's claim that the mattress protector was totally silent (it was—there wasn't a single rustle to be heard), while the second was its waterproof credentials. The protector is designed with a layer of Panda London's very own Nano TPU™ technology, which keeps the product waterproof—a claim that stood up even when we poured a splash of water onto it.

The priciest mattress protector on our list, Eve's The Temperature Balancing Mattress Protector promises to help temperature-sensitive sleepers enjoy the shut-eye they deserve. The price tags on Eve products tend to be high (the Eve Premium Hybrid mattress is £978 for a double) but that aside, the reason for this mattress protector's heftier price tag lies in the impressive technology behind it: its Outlast® fabric was developed by scientists for none other than NASA. 

Constructed from 100% cotton, it's designed to capture and release heat as and when it's required - ideal for restless sleepers who find themselves waking up during the night feeling too hot or too cold. The temperature regulation definitely worked: after a night of testing, we woke up feeling just right. It's also comfortable to lie on, and there were no rustling sounds.

The protector can be machine-washed, but Eve advise doing this no more than once a month (and no tumble-drying—let it air out naturally before putting it back on your bed. This took us a couple of days). It arrived in a bulky cardboard box, which felt excessive compared to the delivery options presented by other brands. That said, the cardboard box can, obviously, still be recycled. It also has one of the more limited size ranges available; it fitted on to a king-sized bed perfectly but if you're looking to find a mattress protector for a single bed, this isn't one for you.

If you're lucky enough to own one of Tempur's mattresses, you'll already be familiar with the brand's bedding quality. While they're designed to best fit Tempur mattresses, they can be used on non-Tempur mattresses, too. 

Designed to keep both spillages and dust mites at bay, this deceptively thin mattress protector is more than capable of keeping your bed in tip-top condition. We tested it by pouring a glass of water directly on to it and were impressed to discover that the mattress underneath remained bone dry. 

Thanks to its 'intelligent membrane' design, it claims to be one of the thinnest mattress protectors available to buy today. On the downside, that means for the price you're paying, it doesn't quite compete with that quilted comfort that other mattress protectors can offer; however, on the upside, we didn't even feel like we were lying on anything, which can only be a good thing. It can be washed an estimated 100 times, and it can also be tumble-dried, too. We only washed it once, admittedly, but found the mattress protector retained its stretch with zero negative impact.

The Tempur-Fit Mattress Protector was supplied by Bensons For Beds for this review.

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Emma Sleep is known for providing some of the best duvets, mattresses and beds - we gave the Emma Original Mattress 4.5 stars in our review, and we were just as impressed with the brand's mattress protector. This isn't a thick, quilted or super-soft option for a mattress protector, but what it lacks in that department, it more than makes up for with the fact that it's fully waterproof and incredibly breathable. This thinner protector is made from 100% polyester, with a stretchy elasticated skirt that easily fits around a mattress (without the crinkling that you can get with a cotton or wool version), protecting it from spills and other moisture such as sweat. While this mattress protector is a little more expensive than some other options on our list, it's often thrown in as part of a bedding bundle with the brand's best mattress deals, so look out for those to kill two birds with one stone, so to speak.

We found that the Emma Mattress Protector was one of the best options for hot sleepers, as its waterproof layer not only swerves spills but also ensures a sweat-free night. We tested the waterproof capabilities of this mattress protector by pouring some water on it and noticed that the water didn't transfer at all through the material. Due to the thinner material, we barely felt the protector as we lay on top of it, but we definitely noticed a cooler and more comfortable night's sleep. It's also very easy to store away if you ever need to - the protector folds away to a tiny size, and we found it air-dried incredibly quickly after washing, making this a great all-rounder for those who want to prioritize breathability and waterproof properties.

No one wants to share their home (let alone their bed...) with bed bugs, and if you've encountered them before, you'll know that their rash-inducing bites are no laughing matter. While not indicative of poor hygiene, they can easily be spread via travel, and are commonly found in mattresses that have been used by multiple people.

If bed bugs are your worst nightmare, play it safe by choosing a mattress protector that is sure to keep them at bay. Soak & Sleep's Anti Bed Bug Mattress Encasement promises to do exactly that, as well as keep dust mites, mold and pollen —which can all build up in bedding over time—under control, too. Matching pillow encasements are also available if you want to extend the protection.

Distinctly thinner than some of the other protectors on the list, we found this mattress protector straightforward to fit. It held its own during a splash test, thanks to its jersey-and-TPU composition. The only slight downside? An occasional faint rustle when turning in bed—but that's a small price to pay to keep those pesky bugs at bay, right? 

Editor's Note: This product is available to reserve, for delivery mid-March.

How to choose a mattress protector

There are a range of different factors to consider when investing in a mattress protector. Some questions you should consider when shopping are:

• Is it waterproof? Of course, the best mattress protector is the one that will defend your mattress against leaks and spillages—but depending on your needs, it might be more important for you that the protector is made from a soft, breathable material. This brings us to our next point...
• Is it breathable? Mattress protectors should be breathable, helping to regulate body temperatures and ensure a restful night's sleep, without sweating or overheating being too much of an issue.
• Is it easy to clean? If your mattress protector gets dirty, you're going to want to clean it. Knowing that it can be popped in the washing machine (and in some cases, the tumble dryer, if you have one) will make things a lot easier.
• What is it made from? Another important thing to consider is the fabric used. We'd recommend natural, breathable fibers such as cotton, as this will allow air to move freely through the mattress, preventing moisture from building up over time.
• How 'deep' it is? Always check that the mattress protector will be deep enough for your mattress. Some mattresses are now over 30cm deep, and the average depth is now 24cm, some 3cm deeper than the average from only a few short years ago. 

What types of mattress protector are available to buy?

There is a wide range of mattress protectors available to buy, with options to suit almost every type of requirement and lifestyle. These can include:

• Sustainable mattress protectors, made from materials like bamboo or ethically-sourced cotton.
• Anti-allergy or hypoallergenic mattress protectors, which can defend against dust mites and bacteria.
• Temperature-regulating mattress protectors, which are ideal for warmer sleepers.

Though mattress protectors generally all work towards the same goal, there are different types of protector that are better suited to various needs. Theresa Schnorbach, Sleep Expert at Emma, tells us that "while cooling protectors can help to stop overheating at night, fleece or high-pile mattress protectors offer comfort and warmth. If it's comfort you're looking for, you could consider a mattress topper instead. Like a protector, a topper can be easily removed and washed to help prolong your mattress's life - however they usually do not offer the same level of waterproofing".

Is it worth getting a mattress protector?

A mattress protector can help regulate temperatures, defend against allergies, protect your mattress (and topper, if you have one) from spills, and also enable your mattress to last longer. Doug Ralph, owner of Your Sleep Better Store, says: "While it is possible to use a mattress without a protector, using one can help protect your mattress from wear and tear, spills, and stains". If you're wondering how to clean a mattress and worried about any stains that could compromise the warranty of your mattress, a protector could help put your mind at ease.

He adds, "If you have allergies or sensitivities to dust mites, a hypoallergenic mattress protector can help reduce your exposure to these allergens. This means less waking up with itchy or red skin and eyes, and less disrupted sleep. I also recommend mattress protectors for people who struggle to sleep, as some models are designed to help keep you and your mattress cool, or add an extra layer of cushioning that can support the body".

What material is best for a waterproof mattress protector?

A waterproof mattress protector will safeguard your bed from spills and moisture. It's especially useful for a child's bed, along with adults who tend to overheat or struggle with incontinence. 

Schnorbach explains that "to protect against liquids you need a waterproof layer - this usually comes in the form of a plastic-based membrane on fabric such as polyester, with a polyurethane backing. This material needs to be thin enough to be breathable and avoid making a rustling sound that might disturb you in your sleep".

It's not enough for a mattress protector to call itself waterproof – for that kind of protection, you'll want to make sure it's constructed from any of the following materials:

• Polyurethane: This thin plastic often serves as a barrier between moisture and the mattress. It's also considered a safer alternative to vinyl (or polyvinyl chloride, also known as PVC), which has been linked to health problems. On its own, polyurethane is not comfortable to sleep on, so it's often layered beneath a softer material.
• Cotton: Cotton is soft, breathable, and very absorbent. It's an ideal choice for hot sleepers as cotton's moisture-wicking capabilities mean they're less likely to wake up in a sweat.
• Bamboo: Bamboo is another breathable, highly-absorbent natural fiber. It's also hypoallergenic, so it's a great option for anyone with allergies.
• Tencel (or Lyocell): Tencel is made of cellulose fibers. It's extremely soft and cooling, so it's recommended if you overheat at night.
• Polyester: This synthetic material is cheaper than natural fabrics and easier to clean, too. However, to enhance the feel and absorbency of polyester, it's often blended with cotton or another natural material.