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Breakfast in bed, anyone? With the right mattress topper, you shouldn’t need to worry about spills or crumbs.
When it comes to the ideal bedding setup, often the first thing we think of is a quality duvet, soft sheets, the perfect pillows and maybe even a chic throw blanket for the end of the bed. While we often forget about how important the bedding base layer (a mattress protector) is, we’re here to remind you.
Mattress protectors are key to keeping your mattress in pristine condition and protecting against spills, stains, germs, allergens, normal use, and dare we say it, bed bugs. For those seeking a layer of protection and padding, we suggest considering a mattress topper as well (don’t worry, we’ve included a few of those here as well).
While we surely don’t wish any of these things on anyone, accidents happen, so why not be prepared? There are tons of great options on the market, including some of our favorites from Amazon, Allerease, Buffy, and more top bedding brands. No matter what type of mattress protector you’re looking for: plush, waterproof, cooling, noiseless — or all the above — we’ve got you covered.
Ahead, get the lowdown on the top mattress protectors we’ve tested.
Best overall: Utopia Bedding Quilted Fitted Mattress Pad
Amazon
Sizing: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Full XL, Queen, Short Queen, Super Queen, King, California King, RV King
Material: Microfiber
“I’ve used this Utopia mattress pad for years and it doesn’t disappoint! It’s durable, long-lasting and ideal for keeping your mattress free of stains and normal signs of wear and tear,” said Camryn La Sala, Commerce Editor and Writer for The Post. No more plain white comforters here. For just $18.99, you can pick out a mattress protector in your favorite color from Utopia bedding (burgundy, light gray, navy, and beige are among your options). Plus, this protector comes in extended sizing options, including Short Queen and RV King. This brand truly allows you to tailor your mattress protector to your exact needs and preferences.
- Best eco-friendly: Buffy Plushy Mattress ProtectorBuffyPros:Quilted padding is very soft and gentle on the skinAdapts well to body temperatureEco-friendlyCons:Dry clean recommendedSizing: Twin, Full, Full XL, Queen, King, California KingMaterial: Tencel fibersLooking for something earth-friendly? Buffy is here for you. I love this brand for all things bedding, and these mattress protectors do not miss a beat. The ultra-smooth shell is filled with layers of tencel fibers recycled from sustainable wood sources like eucalyptus. You’d never guess that wood could feel so snugly soft. The quilted stitching pattern also helps keep the fill in place and evenly distributed, so there’s no need to constantly attempt to flatten or move things around. In terms of heat level, I would rank this one right down the middle. It seems to adapt well to body temperature, making it an excellent all-season choice.BUFFY $99.00 $84.15
- Best down alternative: Quince Premium Down Alternative Mattress TopperQuincePros:Adds three inches of comfortable padding while protecting the mattressSilky, smooth and breathable materialReviewers say it feels like hotel-level qualityCons:Some reviewers mention that it creates a bit of a lumpy lookLimited sizesSizing: Queen, KingMaterial: Cotton twill shell and microfiber fillWe all need a little slice of luxury in our life. If you’re not overly concerned with stains, and more so looking for something to cover your mattress, I suggest you consider the Quince Down Alternative topper. This pad offers a bit of protection while adding three inches of padding to take your sleep up a notch. And let me tell you, the comfort level is unparalleled. As someone unwilling to splurge on an expensive mattress, I was relieved to find a topper like this — the microfiber shell is cloud-soft and the twill shell adds a layer of protection from dust and crumbs.QUINCE $259.00 $139.00+
Best memory foam: ResponseFit Memory Foam Mattress Layer
Sleep NumberSizing: Twin, Twin Long, Full, Queen, King, California King, FlexTop California King, FlexTop King,
Material: lyocell, polyester, spandex, cotton
For head-to-toe comfort, go with memory foam — that’s always been the rule of thumb for picky sleepers. This number from Sleep Number gets the job done. Your body sinks into this mattress topper within seconds, instantly relieving pressure and providing cushioning. The memory foam layer is conveniently wrapped in a machine-washable outer cover with four-sided zippers (ultra-easy to throw in the wash). Corner bands keep it in place and have quite a bit of stretch so they hug your mattress just right.
For those who prefer a softer version over memory foam, try out Sleep Number’s ComfortFit Mattress Layer.
- Best noiseless: Casper Sleep Waterproof Mattress ProtectorCasperPros:Near noiseless360-degree grip to prevent shiftingDries quicklyCons:On the thinner side — so does not add much paddingSizing: Twin, Full, Full XL, Queen, King, California KingMaterial: BambooOne of my personal favorites — Casper Sleep’s waterproof mattress protector — is as close to soundless as they come. My pet peeve with mattress protectors is that they can be crinkly or crunchy when you move around in your sleep. For light sleepers like myself, this is particularly bothersome. Casper is one of the top brands I have tried based on the noise-level ranking. Casper has taken into consideration every element of design. The protector is on the thinner side, and features a 360-degree grip to prevent shifting. Microscopic pores keep spills out but allow air to travel through, so you’re mattress stays cool, dry, and clean. While it doesn’t add as much padding as some mattress toppers, I still find it comfortable to lay on top of.AMAZON $99.00 $88.54
- Best organic: Saatva’s Organic Mattress ProtectorSaatva Pros: 300 thread count 100% GOTS-certified organic cottonReviewers say it feels like hotel-level qualityCons:Some reviewers mention that it creates a bit of a lumpy lookLimited sizesSizing: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Full XL, Queen, Upper-flex Queen, King, Split King. California King, Upper-Flex KingMaterial: Cotton twill shell and microfiber fillFor an all-natural, sustainably sourced option, I suggest taking a look at Saatva’s organic diamond-quilted 300-thread count mattress pad. This protector is made with 100% GOTS-certified organic cotton that wicks away moisture and protects against general wear and tear. I love the fact that the side panels are woven with 4% spandex, for some added stretch so your pad stays in place easily. No need to constantly readjust. While this pad is on the pricier side, it has a deluxe feeling to it — I recommend it to anyone willing to splurge.SAATVA $265.00 $211.00
- Best for cribs: Sealy Stain Release Waterproof Fitted Crib & Toddler Mattress Protector PadTargetPros:Fitted SecureStay skirtHypoallergenic materialEasy to washCons:Limited to crib and toddler bed sizingA small amount of cushioningSizing: CribMaterial: Cotton and polyesterI’ve relied on Sealy’s waterproof mattress protector in my daughter’s nursery, and it’s never disappointed me. Even the toughest stains come out quickly in one wash, and I love how easy it is to pull it off and put it back on the mattress. The full-fitted SecureStay skirt stretches to wrap well underneath a full-size crib or toddler bed mattress, which gives me ease of mind, knowing that it will stay placed while she tosses and turns. It’s also worth mentioning, that the cotton blend is hypoallergenic and safe on sensitive skin. If you’re a new parent, I suggest adding a few of these mattress protectors to your cart — that way you have extras on deck when needed.TARGET $19.99
More Post Picks
- Most breathable: Air-X Mattress ProtectorBedgearPros:Enhanced breathability and airflowPowerband to grip mattress for a secure fitCons:Only one gray color option — may not go with most sheet setsSizing: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California KingMaterial: Polyester, Rayon, and ElastaneWhile this mattress protector is on the more expensive side, it does feature some unique technology for specialized comfort. The Air-X technology maximizes breathability by allowing air to move rapidly in and around the mattress, enhancing air flow (seems pretty ideal for muggier or dewey climates). The added 3D structure also creates an air cushion layer for enhanced comfort. For those seeking a breathable mattress protector, you’ve come to the right place.BEDGEAR $169.99
- Best for allergies: AllerEase Waterproof Mattress ProtectorAmazonPros:Designed for people with allergiesKeeps out dog hair and 99.9% of household particlesRepels waterCons:Reviewers mention it has a swiping sound when you sit down on itSizing: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, KingMaterial: PolyesterThere is nothing that disrupts sleep like allergies. For those who get sniffly, we recommend trying the AllerEase Waterproof Mattress protector. This expert-designed topper features tightly woven fabric that prevents up to 99.9% of unhealthy household particles from collecting in your mattress (dog hair being one of the main culprits if you live with furry friends). Reviewers agree this protector makes a difference with allergies — but it also keeps your mattress fresh and dust-free.AMAZON $39.97
Most waterproof: Purple® Mattress Protector
Amazon AmazonSizing: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
Material: Plastic
For the ultimate water-resistant mattress protector, go with Purple’s plastic topper. While plastic might not be the most plushy, comfortable material, it is quite effective when it comes to repelling liquid. Reviewers mention that it might sound a bit crinkly when you run your hands over it, but once the sheets are on top of it, it’s not too noisy at all. Many people agreed that the topper fits most mattresses well — with plenty of elastic surrounding the sides to keep it still.
Best bamboo: PlushDeluxe Premium Bamboo Mattress Protector
Amazon
Sizing: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
Material: Bamboo
The PlushDeluxe Bamboo Mattress Protector is another great option as it’s made from great quality, natural bamboo fabric. Its ultra-soft and breathable membrane wicks away moisture and regulates heat, plus the brand offers a 10-year warranty. Reviewers mention that this mattress protector holds up perfectly after a wash and dry cycle, so you don’t need to worry about and snags, tears, or discoloration.
Best cooling: MERITLIFE Premium Cooling Mattress Pad Cover And Protector
Amazon
Sizing: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
Material: Bamboo and polyester
No more sweaty nights! If you run hot at night, go for this Meritlife pick that’s designed with a cooling material. The combination of eco-friendly and natural bamboo with polyester provides a cooling effect to distribute heat evenly and regulate body temperature. Reviewers have said that the material is as soft as their sheets, and the soothing, cooling quality has improved their quality of sleep.
Most plush: EASELAND Queen Size Mattress Pad Pillow Top Mattress Cover
Amazon
Sizing: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Fully XL, Queen, Short Queen, Super Queen, King, California King, RV King
Material: Cotton Top and Down Alternative Fill
For the shoppers that need a down alternative option, this one is for you. The down material is great for those looking to dress up a firmer mattress with something a bit soft and plusher. This pick is also 100% cotton, machine washable and includes sweat-proof material. The deep pocket design stretches up to 21 inches, so it can fit a wide range of mattress sizes. And, best of all, you can choose between a variety of gorgeous colors, like mango yellow and pale aqua.
How we tested
To provide a comprehensive review of the best mattress protectors, I evaluated them based on the following criteria: the overall quality, the noise level, the temperature, and the level of protection from particles, stains and spills.
Overall quality: Shoppers want to find a mattress protector that will last. I took note of the structural quality of each protector by checking the seams, observing whether there was any stretch, and putting them in the wash to ensure they didn’t stain, rip, or tear easily. I also put them over a mattress to evaluate the fit.
Heat level: Heat level is a personal preference, some people veer on the chillier side and crave warmer bedding, while others easily overheat and enjoy something cooler. I’ve reviewed mattress protectors offering a variety of heat levels to find something for every type of sleeper.
Noise: Due to the waterproof material or coating, mattress protectors can crinkle or crunch when you move around on top of them — especially for those who toss and turn at night. I evaluated how much sound the mattress protectors made before and after putting sheets over them.
Protection: To review the level of protection these mattress protectors provide, I had to put them to the test by sprinkling some water and crumbs on top of them. I made note of how well they repelled liquid and particles, and how easy it was to remove stains in the wash.
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