How To Find the Right Waterproof Mattress Cover for You

zippered maatress cover being pulled over a mattress

Spills and accidents due to incontinence can lead to irreparable damage to the structural integrity of a mattress and even the bed. Not only that, moisture promotes mold and mildew, which can limit the lifespan of the mattress and even void the warranty of sleep trial agreements.

A great waterproof mattress protector is a simple and inexpensive way to protect your mattress and extend its lifespan. Waterproof mattress protectors also promote a cleaner sleeping surface and thus, safeguard against allergens, bed bugs, dust mites, and other critters.

The best mattress protector must keep away dirt and moisture while also providing a comfortable surface due to the cushioning. There are many options in the market, so continue reading to learn more. The information provided will explain what makes them unique as well as highlight some important things to help you select the best one for you. 

The Benefits of Using a Waterproof Mattress Cover

A waterproof mattress protector can help extend the life of your mattress if you or someone in your household is experiencing incontinence. Not only do these pads help keep your mattress clean and free of stains it can also help maintain your mattress warranty. This is good because some companies won’t replace it if there are any noticeable stains, even if there’s a manufacturing defect.

Furthermore, some waterproof mattress pads also protect you against molds and other allergens. It’s a step up in terms of comfort as it can potentially prevent a bed bug infestation in your bed

Are you or a loved one experiencing nocturnal incontinence? Bedwetting can be embarrassing and hard to deal with. There are protective undergarments you can use but these often fail; therefore, its a  good idea to also protect your mattress. You can either get a waterproof protector, a mattress pad with waterproof backing, or a mattress encasement. You can also find a pillow protector.

thin cream mattress cover on a mattress

Things To Keep in Mind When Selecting a Waterproof Mattress Cover

Ease of Cleaning 

You can easily wipe a vinyl protector pad with soap and water but a urethane mattress pad and a bed cover will need to be washed and dried. Most require several cycles if you use a dryer.

Frequency of Changing 

A fitted mattress cover is similar to other fitted sheets so it’s a no-brainer. However, those with encasements zip around the entire mattress and do require assistance to place them.

Comfort 

Urethane is a breathable material and thus the most comfortable in terms of mattress covers. In contrast, vinyl is the most economical but not breathable and is kind of cold and stiff. Invest in a mattress topper, which is a small pad to place on top of the sheets. This kind of waterproof mattress pad is easy to clean and replace if the user frequently urinates at night. These won’t only protect the entire mattress but also the fitted sheet. You can either choose machine washable or disposable under pads.

Finding the Right Waterproof Mattress Cover for You

It can be hard to find good mattress accessories as there are many of them on the market. 

There are some important things to keep in mind when purchasing a quality mattress pad.  For instance, it should be able to protect your mattress from stains, sweat, moisture, allergens, dust, and excess humidity. 

Proper waterproof protection should extend the lifespan of your bed frame and mattress and benefit users prone to allergies. You may not realize it, but moisture from sweat is a breeding ground for bacteria, germs, and mites. Furthermore, a decent protector can reduce the number of times you have to clean your mattress and also safeguards you from anything left behind by a previous user.

As with everything, there are some negative aspects to consider when it comes to using a waterproof mattress cover. For one, zippered protectors are difficult to remove. The good news is you can find one that’s easier to put on. It’s important to choose the right one as some are stiff and uncomfortable. Especially if they don’t fit properly.

Waterproof Mattress Protectors We Love

  1. Mattress Protector | Queen
    $46.99

    by SafeRest 

    Buy Now

    We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

    02/18/2024 10:42 pm GMT
  2. Waterproof Mattress Protector
    $17.97

    by Linenspa 

    Buy Now

    We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

    02/18/2024 10:33 pm GMT
  3. Zippered Mattress Encasement Twin
    $17.99

    by Utopia Bedding 

    Buy Now

    We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

    02/18/2024 04:58 am GMT

Choosing the Right Waterproof Mattress Protector

Size and Maintenance

Size and maintenance are two important factors so look for a protector you can machine wash and dry. Price is also an important consideration, you can get one from $20 to $100, depending on your budget. 

Be aware of false claims, and be sure to check out the product reviews to find out about any issues with it. 

woman putting a waterproof mattress cover on

Materials

Another important consideration is the material, as it can either make or break your nightly rest. For instance, vinyl is great to combat bed bugs, but uncomfortable to sleep on as it isn’t breathable plus it makes a crinkly noise when lying on top, as we mentioned above. Mattress protectors come in a variety of materials but woven materials like cotton, Gots certified organic cotton, rayon, and polyester are the most breathable and best against allergens while still allowing for breathability. Other materials like bamboo are great for regulating temperature. 

A large part of the waterproof mattress protectors on the market are made of vinyl or polyurethane, although there are some memory foam ones. You might want to stay away from vinyl and its toxic fumes – so opt for one with a vinyl-free coating. In addition, pay attention to features beyond water resistance. For example, you may also need protection from allergens and critters such as the common dust mite and bed bugs. In general, avoid uncomfortable fabrics as these can greatly interfere with your sleep. 

Durability

This is another important factor when choosing a great mattress cover, if you intend to wash it often due to bedwetting. Check the customer reviews to find out how well it holds up, and keep in mind that durability isn’t a dealbreaker if you’ll be washing it occasionally.

Warranty

Any premium mattress protector comes with some kind of warranty in the event of manufacturing defects. This is important as a cover that rips immediately or fails in any other way isn’t acceptable, and you should be able to return it and/or exchange it.

Types of Waterproof Mattress Covers

As we said above, there are many types of mattress accessories. Top protectors are the most common in terms of covers but lack side protection. These encasements aren’t necessary unless you’re trying to keep bedbugs and allergens at bay. Other covers have five sides and protect not only the top but also the sides and you can find encasements as well. The latter zip up and cover the whole mattress. 

Vinyl Covers

Vinyl fitted covers are the most economical solution and also the most convenient as they grab the mattress just like a fitted sheet should. The material provides a barrier between your mattress and any moisture, and you can wipe them with a mild soap or disinfectant.

person pulling mattress cover over a mattress

Waterproof Mattress Pads

In turn, a waterproof mattress pad looks and feels like a regular mattress pad but with the waterproof factor. Mattress covers come in different thicknesses and waterproof barriers. The most efficient one has four thick layers and a urethane waterproof layer that makes it more comfortable. These bed pads are machine washable, and you can dry them on low heat.

Zippered Premium Covers

Furthermore, there are breathable fitted and breathable zippered premium covers. These are more comfortable, easy to wash, and long-lasting. Opt for a fitted cover if you have to change it frequently. The zippered type not only provides moisture protection but also keeps bed bugs and dust mites away from the user. You can machine wash and dry them in a single cycle.

Zippered Vinyl Encasements

Zippered vinyl encasements are a great way to protect yourself from bed bugs, dust mites, mold and mildew, and moisture. You don’t have to remove them to clean them and can leave them on for a long time.

There are many solutions, and the one you choose will depend on your situation. It’s important to protect the mattress whenever wetting accidents occur because other methods (i.e… adult diapers, pull-ups, overlays) can fail.

Choosing Between Zippered and Fitted Mattress Covers

You might want to use a fitted mattress cover if you or your loved one experience frequent urination at night. Zippered mattress covers require lifting the mattress and take time and effort to handle so they’re not appropriate for a senior who makes their own bed. A fitted cover is more appropriate for them as it comes off easily for washing. These also provide easy and effective waterproof protection when you travel.

A zippered mattress cover is perfect for occasional wetting accidents but be aware that only a mattress encasement can protect you from bed bugs, dust mites, and allergens. Similarly, a fitted mattress cover only protects the top and sides of your bed.

person putting a white mattress cover over a mattress

Membrane Versus Vinyl Covers

Both vinyl and premium membrane bedding are waterproof, and you can find fitted and zippered styles. The main difference is vinyl isn’t breathable while the membrane material is. The latter features a waterproof layer, usually urethane or polyurethane, and allows the transfer of heat. This lightweight material keeps you cool during the summer and warm in the winter months. It’s a lot more comfortable to sleep on premium bedding than on vinyl. However, vinyl covers are usually inexpensive and easy to clean, you can just wipe them clean with a damp cloth.

How to Care for a Waterproof Mattress Protector

Read the “care for” instructions on your new waterproof mattress cover as some can be washed and dried like your regular bedding while others have special instructions to make the most of them. Also, consider buying multiple covers at a time so you don’t have to machine dry them if you’ll be changing them more than once a week. This is because the heat from the dryer weakens some fabrics and ruins their waterproofness.

Cleaning an Already Stained Mattress

It’s common for people to only consider waterproof bedding after having an incident. Are you one of them? If soiling occurs, get a stain remover. Enzyme-based cleaners can remove urine stains and odors and you can use them in different ways in various situations.

For set stains on a mattress, use a product with an enzyme process that can effectively eliminate most stains. It’s best on mattresses and will work on floors as it penetrates deep into the product. You can remove the whole stain with it. The way it works is you mix an enzyme packet with water and pour it over the stain. Then, you use the solution to remove the stain. The whole process takes about eight hours although you can dry it faster by placing a fan in front of it.

There’s a one-step product called OdorZyme spray, and it’s best for incidental clean-up. It works well on small, fresh stains. You can use it to clean vinyl covers and even the bathroom. Don’t waste it on big mattresses or carpet stains, these require a large amount of product.

Another type of stain removal product is an environmentally-friendly cleaner that quickly removes urine stains and odors caused by bodily fluids. DP Stain Remover is available in a convenient, ready-to-use spray bottle.

You might want to keep a container of stain remover handy to maintain your bedding, furniture, and carpets. The faster you treat a stain, the better the results!

zippered mattress cover on a mattress

Waterproof Mattress Protectors We Love

  1. Mattress Protector | Queen
    $46.99

    by SafeRest 

    Buy Now

    We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

    02/18/2024 10:42 pm GMT
  2. Waterproof Mattress Protector
    $17.97

    by Linenspa 

    Buy Now

    We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

    02/18/2024 10:33 pm GMT
  3. Zippered Mattress Encasement Twin
    $17.99

    by Utopia Bedding 

    Buy Now

    We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

    02/18/2024 04:58 am GMT

Bed Bugs and Other Critters

Bed bugs are back, not only in the US but around the world. We experienced a break from these pests after World War II. This was mainly due to the widespread use of DDT. The recent rebound is probably due to factors such as using less potent insecticides and global travel. 

Whatever the reason, bed bugs are part of life again and infestations are common wherever there are people. They love us! These little critters usually bite you at night while you sleep. However, there are some truly hungry ones that feed during the day or whenever you usually sleep. 

The way they feed is they pierce the skin with their elongated beak with which they suck your blood. They fill up in about three to 10 minutes and the bite is usually painless so you won’t notice it. Note that bed bugs won’t stay on you like lice or ticks. They crawl away immediately after feeding and digest their yummy meal in a dark secluded location.

Where Do Bed Bugs Hide?

These bloodsuckers inhabit crevices and protected locations around beds and other sleeping areas during the early stages of an infestation. As numbers grow larger, these bugs move beyond beds into other locations and are harder to control.

Bed Bug Infestations 

Bed bugs seem to come from nowhere, but the truth is they’re efficient hitchhikers and thus, are easily transported on luggage, bedding, clothing, furniture, and other belongings. This critter is a big problem in hotels and apartments with a high turnover. They’re small and agile and masters at avoiding detection as they can quickly crawl into concealed locations. 

Controlling Infestations

Bed bugs are hard to eradicate as they hide in tiny crevices so you must do thorough inspections even though you may not succeed at eliminating them. Hire an experienced professional pest controller if you can. They know exactly where to look for bed bugs and can resort to the many tools they have at their disposal.

mattress cover being pulled over a corner

Pillow Protectors to Keep Dust Mites Away

Perhaps you hadn’t thought about it but placing your head on your pillow at night could be detrimental to your health. Dust mites are microscopic bugs, and their droppings are a common allergen in any home. They usually inhabit bedding, mattresses, upholstered furniture, and curtains. Basically, anything that collects moisture and dead skin cells. Of course, they love pillows!

This is because hair, dead skin cells, sweat, and drool buildup on the pillow over time, and dust mites are attracted to it. It’s their debris that triggers allergies and asthma. The symptoms range from itchy eyes and runny noses, to difficulty breathing and sleeping.

People with a dust mite allergy and asthma must reduce their exposure to dust mites as an important part of their allergy or asthma management plan. An AAFA-certified pillow protector can help because the microscopic pores of this type of cover are pretty small so dead cells and hairs aren’t able pass through. Furthermore, dust mites won’t stay in a place where they can’t find food. 

Protecting Your Beauty Sleep

We spend about one-third of our life either sleeping or attempting to do so. It may seem counterintuitive but your body works quite hard while you sleep. This is because there are various processes at work to keep everything functioning at its best.

As you can imagine, getting enough sleep can improve your health and even boost your longevity. In turn, inadequate sleep, including too much sleep, will have the opposite effect.

Try to find that perfect spot where you’re getting the right amount of sleep for a long and healthy life. Waterproof bedding can help but it’s only part of the equation, you must find the peace of mind to do the rest.

Was this article helpful?
YesNo