Here at Woodstock Furniture & Mattress Outlet, we strongly recommend a mattress protector to go along with every new mattress purchase. Beyond the long list of benefits that comes with using a mattress protector, the most crucial benefit is that it protects your investment.

That being the case, mattress protectors are fairly simple in concept, but we’ve noticed that our shoppers still have a lot of practical questions once they start comparing their options. Do mattress protectors make the bed sleep hotter? Are mattress protectors necessary for mattress warranties? Can they impact the feel of the mattress? What kind of mattress protector works best for allergies, pets, or deep mattresses?

Keep reading for answers to the common questions shoppers ask us when choosing a mattress protector for their bed. Let’s get to it!

Do I Really Need a Mattress Protector?

The short answer? Yes. Many sleepers use mattress protectors to help reduce the risk of stains, accidents, spills, allergens, and everyday wear reaching the mattress itself. We generally recommend using a mattress protector in the vast majority of cases, but especially anywhere kids, pets, or allergy sufferers are involved.

For a deeper answer to this question, we recommend reading our guide, Mattress FAQ: Do I Need a Mattress Protector?

Will a Waterproof Mattress Protector Sleep Hot?

It’s true, many older and lower-quality waterproof protectors have a reputation for sleeping warmer and feeling less breathable due to the materials used. However, the good news for consumers is that many modern mattress protectors, even the water-resistant ones, are designed to balance accident protection with better airflow.

If sleeping hot is a major concern for you, don’t go with the cheapest option. It helps to look for a protector made with more breathable materials like bamboo (i.e. viscose), Tencel (i.e. Lyocell), or any protector with a quieter, less plasticky waterproof barrier.

Does a Mattress Protector Help Protect My Warranty?

In many cases, yes. Using a mattress protector is a great way to prevent stains and liquid damage that could potentially void the manufacturer warranty and cause problems if a warranty issue were to arise later.

Here at Woodstock Furniture & Mattress Outlet, we actually require the purchase of a mattress protector to qualify for our comfort guarantee exchange program for this very reason. That said, warranty terms vary by manufacturer and retailer, so it is always important to review the specific warranty details that apply to your mattress.

Will a Mattress Protector Change the Feel of My Mattress?

It certainly can. Just like the early waterproof mattress cover options that felt crinkly and plasticky, many older mattress protectors were quite thick and made with stiffer materials that could obscure the feel of a mattress’ comfort layers.

But there’s good news! These days, makers of quality mattress protectors tend to make them thinner, more breathable, and with higher-end materials that offer protection while still allowing the feel of the mattress to shine through.

For this reason, we do caution our shoppers against choosing the cheapest option you might find at your local big box store. However, there are a number of decently-priced, higher quality options that are made to allow the feel of your mattress to shine through, including protectors specifically made by many mattress manufacturers themselves.

What Type of Mattress Protector Is Best?

Ultimately, the answer to this question depends on what factors matter most to you:

• Fitted mattress protectors are often the most practical everyday option for general use. 
• Fully-enclosed zippered mattress encasements are more substantial and make more sense if you want fuller mattress coverage, especially for those with severe allergy concerns. 
• Meanwhile, an anchored or strapped pad protector is very basic and works best only in lower-use situations.

Be sure to read our How To Find the Right Mattress Protector for Your Bed guide for more information on fitted mattress protectors vs mattress encasements vs strapped pads.

What Mattress Protector Material Is Best?

There is no single best material for everyone. 

• Cotton is breathable and familiar. 
• Polyester is most valued for its durability. 
• Viscose of bamboo and Tencel / Lyocell appeal to hot sleepers looking for the most breathability, or shoppers who want a smoother feel. 
• Waterproof protectors of all varieties are best when spill and moisture protection matter most.

The right answer depends on what you prioritize most: comfort, cooling, washability, waterproofing, or durability. Looking for more info, read our guide on How To Find the Right Mattress Protector for Your Bed.

Are Mattress Protectors Helpful for Allergy Sufferers?

They certainly can be. Mattress protectors are a great way to help reduce the buildup of allergens like dust, pet dander, and dust mites in the mattress. For even more complete mattress coverage, some people prefer a zippered encasement rather than a standard fitted protector.

Read more about those options in Our Guide to Finding the Right Mattress Protector.

What Kind of Mattress Protector Is Best for Kids?

When it comes to children’s beds, you should prioritize waterproofing, washability, and ease of removal. For this reason, a fitted waterproof protector is often the most convenient option for everyday life. 

Bonus Tip for Parents: For households with little ones, we recommend keeping a second protector on hand so there is always a clean one in the linen closet, ready when needed.

Read more about your options in Our Guide to Finding the Right Mattress Protector.

What Kind of Mattress Protector Is Best for Pet Owners?

For homes with pets, the best protector is usually one that offers a good mix of durability, washability, and moisture protection. Many pet owners also want added protection from dander, dirt, and general wear.

The specific choice depends on whether your main concern is allergens, shedding, accidents, or just everyday mess. For accident protection, be sure to go with a water-resistant fitted protector. If your primary concern is allergens like dust and pet dander, either a quality fitted protector or mattress encasement is a good choice.

Read more about your options in Our Guide to Finding the Right Mattress Protector.

How Do I Choose a Mattress Protector for a Deep Mattress?

The most important thing is to check the pocket depth or fit specifications before you buy. The maker of any quality mattress protector or mattress pad should have them listed. Not every protector is designed for thicker, taller mattresses, so it helps to make sure the model you are considering is intended for your mattress height.

Can I Use a Mattress Protector With an Adjustable Base?

Absolutely. But fit and flexibility matter. For instance, if you have a thick mattress the mattress protector just barely fits over the corners, it may pop off when the head or foot of the mattress is elevated. If you use an adjustable base, it is worth specifically looking for a protector with deeper pockets that is designed to stay in place and move well with the mattress as the adjustable base changes position.

How Often Should I Wash a Mattress Protector?

Getting into a regular cleaning routine helps keep your whole sleep setup hygienic and fresh. How often you should wash it really depends on your household and lifestyle.

For General Use: Washing your protector every one to two months is a good rule of thumb for most people.

For Allergy Sufferers: To keep allergens like dust mites and pet dander under control, it may help to wash it more often, maybe every two to four weeks.

For Homes with Kids and/or Pets: After any sort of spill, accident, or mess, it’s best to wash the protector immediately. This will prevent stains from setting in and keep everything clean. Otherwise, you can stick to the recommendations outlined above.

By following these simple care instructions, you can be confident that your protector will remain a reliable guardian for your mattress, giving you peace of mind and a clean, healthy place to sleep. For best results, remember to check the care instructions for the specific protector you have purchased.

Have More Questions About Mattress Protectors? We Have the Answers.

Mattress protectors are simple products, but the shopping process can still raise a lot of practical questions. The best fit for you depends on your mattress, your household, and what kind of protection matters most to you.

If you are looking for a more detailed guide to choosing between different protector types and materials, don’t miss How To Find the Right Mattress Protector for Your Bed. Meanwhile, for more info on why mattress protectors are important don’t miss Mattress FAQ: Do I Need a Mattress Protector?

Got more questions about mattress protectors, or mattresses in general? We’d love to answer your questions and help you compare your options in person. Drop us a line in our easy and convenient live chat, or come see us at any of our North Georgia and Atlanta area furniture and mattress stores. See you there!