Are mattress protectors really necessary?

A mattress protector is an optional mattress accessory. However, many sleepers benefit from using one. Not only does a mattress protector prevent dirt and moisture from staining and degrading your mattress, it can also keep potential allergens in your mattress at bay.

Is it OK to not use a mattress protector?

Technically, no, you don't need a mattress protector. After all, you, better than anyone else, know how much wear and tear your mattress gets every day. If it's just you, it probably gets less use than if you have young children or pets climbing in and out.

Is it worth getting a mattress protector?

Through extensive research, we found that using a fitted, waterproof mattress protector was one of the most effective ways to ensure your sleep environment is protected and clean and safe from things like bed bugs.

Do mattress protectors make a difference?

A mattress pad is primarily designed to add an extra layer of cushioning. A mattress protector acts as a defensive barrier that can help prevent spills and allergens from damaging a mattress. While a mattress pad can change the overall feel of a bed, a mattress protector does not.

Are expensive mattress protectors worth it?

In my experience, it's often worth it to spring for a more expensive mattress topper. Cheap toppers that cost around $50 don't usually last long, so you end up needing to replace it more often. High-end toppers usually feature quality, durable materials that last at least five years.

Are Mattress Protectors Necessary?

What percentage of people use mattress protectors?

Making the bed

To wit: Virtually all consumers regularly use pillows and sheets and more than half use a mattress pad (52%) but only 25% of BSC survey respondents report using a mattress protector.

How much should you spend on a mattress protector?

On average, mattress protectors usually cost between $50 and $100. However, this will vary based on their materials and construction. Some protectors with additional features, like padding and/or cooling, may cost more, while more basic protectors often cost less.

What are the disadvantages of a waterproof mattress protector?

Mattress protector materials and layers

Protective mattress protectors are thinner, usually made from a thin layer of core support foam or fibrous filling with a quilted cover. Waterproof mattress protectors are made from foam with a polypropylene top layer, which feels scratchy and can reduce bedtime comfort.

Do hotels have to use mattress protectors?

Yes, hotels often use mattress protectors to maintain the cleanliness and hygiene of their mattresses. Mattress protectors help to prevent stains, spills, and the buildup of allergens, bacteria, and bed bugs.

What mattress protector is best?

Of those, the SafeRest Premium Mattress Protector performed the best. In addition to remaining leak-free in our tests, it was one of the best at staying cool and dissipating heat. The SafeRest protector can fit a broad range of mattresses up to 18 inches thick.

What are the side effects of mattress protectors?

Health Risks

A child's developing body is more at risk from these toxins, which the child would inhale for eight hours every night if sleeping on a vinyl mattress cover. Short-term health effects include headaches, nausea and irritation to the eyes and respiratory tract.

How often should you buy a mattress protector?

That being said, you should also plan on regularly replacing your mattress protector even if you don't see signs of damage. This is because not all damage is immediately visible. And replacing your mattress protector every 1 to 2 years will ensure your mattress stays fully protected.

Should you wash mattress protector every time?

You should wash your mattress protector every other month. The mattress protector is a final line of defense against damage and dirt directly to your mattress. Using a protector ensures your expensive mattress stays clean and performs better for more years. Virtually all protectors are machine washable.

What can you use as a mattress protector?

If you're only looking to put an absorbent barrier between you and your bed, cotton may be a great option. Incidentally, this type of mattress protector is also the most breathable. So, if you normally sleep hot, it's probably your best bet.

How long should a mattress protector last?

The average mattress protector lasts roughly between one and two years. Think about it, they're job is to accumulate all the dirties, from dead skin cells and dander, to body oils, cellular debris and other liquids. Eventually, the build up of all these substances becomes too much for your mattress's bodyguard.

How often do hotels wash mattress protectors?

Hotels and rental properties should change and clean mattress pads as each guest checks out. At home, wash your mattress pads as needed. Know that your guests want the assurance they are checking into a clean room and sleeping in a clean bed.

Can bed bugs get through a zippered mattress protector?

The zipper must have very small teeth that are close together to prevent even tiny, immature bugs from weaving in between the zipper teeth and escaping. The zipper must seal completely at the end-stop so that there are no gaps where bed bugs could escape.

Do zippered mattress protectors work?

Each protector includes a zipper that locks particles — and pests — inside. Once locked inside, bed bugs have no way of escaping from the encasement to reach their blood supply host. As so, mattress protectors can cause bed bugs to starve and die.

Do mattress protectors make the bed hot?

Some people complain that mattress protectors make them feel hot, especially when they are made from certain materials. Waterproof mattress protectors often contain a polyurethane barrier, which tends to trap body heat. To combat this, some protectors feature breathable materials like cotton or bamboo-derived fabrics.

What is the best mattress protector that doesn t make you sweat?

Bamboo is naturally moisture-wicking and breathable, which is why so many cooling sheets are made from this material. The Nolah bamboo mattress protector feels silky and cool to the touch, which is great for people who tend to overheat at night.

How deep should a mattress protector be?

Answer: we recommend 2" to 4" (5 to 10cm) deeper than your mattress depth, including any mattress topper or pad. Our standard fitted sheets and mattress protectors are made with a drop of 12" (30cm), so are good for mattresses up to about 10" (23cm) deep.

Do you put sheets on top of mattress protector?

If you're wondering how to put on a mattress protector, it's practically the same process as putting on a mattress topper—simply place it directly on your mattress and then place your fitted sheet over it. And voila! There are all kinds of different mattress protectors that you can get to meet your needs.

Do mattress protectors protect against pee?

A waterproof mattress protector may help protect the mattress from urine, sweat, drool, spills, dust mites, allergens, and bedbugs.

How many times can you wash a mattress protector?

A mattress protector collects lots of bacteria and sweat over time, so you need to clean it so it works effectively and is hygienic. Since a fitted sheet goes over a mattress protector, the protector only has to be washed every one to two months (as opposed to every two weeks for a fitted sheet).

Can mattress protectors go in the dryer?

There are a few ways you can dry your mattress protector safely, including: Dry it in the dryer on tumble dry. As we mentioned, heat can shrink and damage this protective mattress encasement. To avoid going from a queen-sized protector to a twin, stick to low heat settings.