Best Waterproof Mattress Protectors and Pads

Moisture from spills and accidents can cause irreparable damage to a mattress. Not only could it erode the structural integrity of the bed over time, but it could also promote mold and mildew. This may limit the lifespan of the mattress and potentially void its warranty and/or sleep trial policies.

Waterproof protectors and pads are a simple and affordable way to safeguard your mattress, thereby potentially extending its usable lifespan. While they shield against liquids, many waterproof mattress pads and protectors also provide some degree of protection against allergens and dust mites to promote a cleaner sleep surface.

Protectors are usually designed to defend against dirt and moisture without significantly changing the feel of the sleep surface, while pads traditionally add cushioning. Waterproof options are available in both product categories, so which is best for you may depend on the comfort of your existing mattress.

We’ll share our top picks for the best waterproof mattress protectors and pads, explain what makes them unique, and highlight some of the factors that may help you decide which option is best for you.

Product Details

The Saatva Waterproof Mattress Protector carries a higher price-point than the average mattress protector, but the quality materials and construction might justify the extra cost for buyers who are looking for a mattress protector that is as comfortable as it is protective.

Many waterproof mattress protectors have moisture barriers that lead to overheating or are made with materials that feel rubbery or stiff. The Saatva Waterproof Mattress Protector, on the other hand, is made of organic cotton, a material that is softer and more breathable than materials used in many other mattress protectors. In addition, the moisture barrier has a ventilated design that allows air to pass through while remaining waterproof.

The mattress protector has deep pockets and an elastic band around the entire perimeter, allowing it to fit snugly on mattresses up to 16 inches thick. The protector is machine-washable. Saatva recommends washing the protector on a gentle cycle with cold water, then tumble-drying on a low setting.

Saatva offers a 45-day trial period and issues full refunds for mattress protectors returned within this period, even for products that have been used. The protector also comes with a 1-year warranty. Shipping is free within the contiguous U.S.

Waterproof mattress protectors often sleep uncomfortably warm because the polyurethane barrier can restrict airflow and cause the outer material to absorb body heat. The Cooling Mattress Protector from Sweet Zzz lives up to its name thanks to its 100% Tencel composition. Derived from naturally breathable eucalyptus, Tencel regulates temperature very well and is well suited to anyone who normally finds mattress protectors too hot – as well as those who live in warmer climates.

The Tencel is also silky-smooth and shouldn’t cause any issues for people with sensitive skin. Since the protector has earned an OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certification, it is considered safe for adults or children of any age. The pocket depth is 14 inches, so this product should be compatible with most mattresses on the market.

When the protector needs to be cleaned, you should wash it in cold water on a gentle cycle and tumble dry on low. Avoid using bleach or ironing the protector, as these will void the warranty.

The Cooling Mattress Protector is reasonably priced and Sweet Zzz provides free shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. Your protector can be returned within 50 days of the original order. Should you decide to keep it, you’ll also receive a five-year warranty.

Made up of the same premium fabric used in the cover of the Brooklyn Aurora Mattress, the Brooklyn Bedding Luxury Cooling Mattress Protector is crafted for optimum cooling and comfort.

This hypoallergenic fitted-sheet-style protector consists of polyester with a polyurethane backing. The polyester is soft and smooth, and the polyurethane backing is breathable and whisper-quiet while shielding against liquids, bacteria, dust mites, and bed bugs.

What sets the Brooklyn Bedding Luxury Cooling Mattress Protector apart from other options on the market is its surface infusion of TitanCool. This proprietary phase change material (PCM) is engineered to moderate the skin temperature to 88 degrees to help the sleeper maintain a more comfortable temperature throughout the night.

The Brooklyn Bedding Luxury Cooling Mattress Protector comes in the six standard mattress sizes and fits models up to 14 inches thick. It is subject to a 30-day return policy.

The Sijo TempTune Mattress Pad combines cooling shell and fill materials to create an exceptionally comfortable design ideal for hot sleepers, people who sweat in their sleep, and those who reside in warm or humid locales. The interior is lined with fiber fill made of Tencel, a eucalyptus-derived textile that retains the natural breathability of its botanical source. A smooth nylon shell encases the fill, ensuring minimal body heat retention and added soothing for people with sensitive skin.

A waterproof membrane embedded in the core safeguards the pad from permanent liquid damage. Tencel also has natural moisture-wicking properties for added protection against sweat, urine, and other liquids that may come into contact with the sleep surface. The entire pad is machine-washable, making it easy to keep clean. Wash in cool water on a gentle cycle, then tumble dry on low heat. Avoid using bleach, and remove the pad from the dryer as soon as the cycle is complete – this will reduce wrinkles.

Sijo offers the TempTune Mattress Pad in full, queen, king, and California king sizes. Standard shipping within the contiguous U.S. is free of charge for orders of $65 or more, a range that encompasses all available sizes for the pad. Return shipping is also free within 30 days of the delivery date.

People who want outstanding and all-encompassing mattress protection should look to the Layla Full Encasement Mattress Protector. This model has a six-sided zipper that allows you to completely envelop your mattress. Protectors that work like a fitted sheet defend the top of your mattress, but leave the bottom exposed to the elements. Full encasement protectors go the extra mile for added protection against bed bugs, dust mites, and moisture.

This protector’s waterproof backing is thermoplastic polyurethane that extends 360 degrees around the protector. The upper material is a comfortable polyester blend that keeps the protector soft and noise-free. Testing indicated that the protector is waterproof up to 38 pounds per square inch.

Shoppers should note that this model is only compatible with mattresses 14 inches thick or less. Those with thicker mattresses should consider a skirt-style mattress protector or look for a protector made specifically to accommodate high-profile models.

On laundry day, you can machine wash the protector, but be sure to hang dry or use your dryer’s lowest heat setting to ensure the waterproof backing stays intact. This waterproof protector comes in six standard dimensions. FedEx ground shipping is free for shoppers in the contiguous U.S. Purchases of the Full Encasement Mattress Protector carry a 1-year warranty and 30-night sleep trial.

Many waterproof protectors have a slick, crinkly feel that can make your mattress feel less comfortable. The Puffy Mattress Protector, on the other hand, has a plush surface that provides a bit of extra cushioning for your body. Composed of rayon derived from bamboo, a breathable fabric with moisture-wicking properties, the protector also sleeps fairly cool.

The elastic corner pockets are compatible with any mattress up to 15 inches thick, a range that comprises most mainstream models sold today. Six sizes are available, all of which correspond to standard mattress dimensions. You can wash and dry the protector in any household machine for quick and easy care. Puffy recommends laundering the protector at least once every 2 months.

The Puffy Mattress Protector carries an affordable price-point and shipping is free for all customers in the 50 U.S. states. Puffy’s 101-night sleep trial is remarkably long compared to protector trial periods from competing brands, and those who keep it beyond the return window also receive a lifetime warranty against structural defects.

Waterproof mattress protectors have a reputation for being slick, vinyl-like fabrics that are sticky and noisy. The Coop Home Goods Ultra Luxe Waterproof Mattress Protector has a unique fabric that’s exceptionally soft, especially for a waterproof mattress protector. It’s noise-free and competitively priced as well.

The innovative upper fabric is made from polyester and bamboo-derived rayon that’s soft and comfortable. Bamboo-derived fabrics are highly breathable and helpful for hot sleepers, as they allow rather than restrict airflow. Under this layer is a polyurethane waterproof backing that safeguards your mattress against spills and dirt.

This model works well with thick mattresses, as its corner pockets accommodate models up to 18 inches tall. People with standard-size mattresses don’t need to worry about extra fabric bunching at the corners, since the pockets have a mesh band that expands to fit mattresses taller than 15 inches.

You can wash this protector in a standard washing machine, though you should only tumble dry on the lowest heat setting to preserve the waterproof membrane. The cover is available in six dimensions and each purchase comes with a 100-night sleep trial. Standard shipping is free for shoppers in the contiguous U.S. Your protector carries a limited warranty that protects against manufacturer defects.

Sleepers who want a protector that’s both functional and comfortable are likely to find the Nectar Mattress Protector a good fit. While it isn’t as thick as a mattress topper, this model is designed to enhance the overall comfort of your existing mattress while protecting it against stains, liquid damage, and wear and tear.

The Nectar’s quilted top has a soft and lightly plush feel. Crafted with cotton, this upper fabric is intended to breathe and help regulate temperature while the layer underneath acts as a waterproof barrier. This protector is engineered to be noiseless and resistant to allergens and dust.

The entire protector is stretchy and fits a wide range of mattress heights including high-profile mattresses up to 22 inches tall. The corners fit securely around your bed to ensure the protector doesn’t move during use.

The price-point for this protector is on-par with other high-quality competitors and it’s likely to have a decent lifespan. For best results, the manufacturer recommends machine washing and tumble drying using the lowest heat setting. Shoppers can purchase the Nectar Mattress Protector in six standard sizes.

Shipping is free for shoppers in the contiguous U.S. and returns are accepted within 50 days of purchase. Nectar backs this protector with a 5-year warranty.

The Legends Hotel Waterproof Mattress Pad from The Company Store combines the breathability of natural cotton jersey with the insulation of plush fiber fill. As a result, you can comfortably use the pad throughout the year. The cotton feels cool and crisp during warmer times of the year, but the fill provides decent insulation against the cold when temperatures drop.

The pad contains roughly 10 ounces of fill, creating exceptional plushness for any sleep surface. This may be particularly beneficial if your current mattress feels overly firm, but you aren’t yet ready to purchase a new model. A laminated waterproof membrane embedded beneath the shell should ensure superior protection against spills and liquid damage. A stylish, striped damask cover completes the hotel-inspired look.

The pad is available in a pocket depth of 11 or 18 inches. This range makes the pad compatible with the vast majority of mattresses sold today, including many luxury pillow-tops and other high-profile models that are too tall for standard-pocket pads. You can also choose from six sizes for the 11-inch pad, which correspond with standard mattress dimensions, but the 18-inch pad is exclusively sold in queen, king, and California king sizes. The pad can be machine washed on a gentle cycle with like colors, then tumble dried in low heat.

The Legends Hotel Waterproof Mattress Pad is reasonably priced and ground shipping is free for all orders in the contiguous U.S. of $75 or more – a range that covers all of the pad’s available sizes. Returns are accepted within 90 days of the purchase date, even if you’ve used or laundered the pad.

When it comes to waterproof mattress protectors, it’s important to find one that fits your mattress securely — which is sometimes tricky for owners of thick mattresses. The Casper Waterproof Mattress Protector has a generous pocket depth, so it should be compatible with many thicker mattresses.

The protector is designed to fit mattresses up to 16 inches deep, which covers most pillow-top and high-profile mattresses on the market. It’s composed of a stretchy polyester fabric with thermoplastic polyurethane for waterproofing. The skirting is made with a polyester and spandex fabric blend. While many waterproof covers have a stiff, crinkly quality, this protector is designed to feel soft and makes noticeably less noise than some competitors.

The Casper Waterproof Mattress Protector is available in six standard mattress sizes. Casper recommends hand washing and air drying the protector, since heat from machine washing and drying may compromise the integrity of the waterproofing membrane.

Shipping is free to addresses in the contiguous U.S. You’ll receive a 30-night sleep trial with your protector, and it’s also backed by a 1-year warranty.

Mattress Pad vs Mattress Topper

A mattress pad is typically a relatively thin layer that adds a bit of cushioning to the bed without significantly altering the feel. Mattress toppers are more substantial. They act as an extra comfort layer, adjusting the firmness of the bed.

Our list includes waterproof protectors and waterproof pads, but shoppers should be aware that not all pads resist liquids. If you’re looking for a pad to shield your mattress from spills and accidents, make sure to double-check that it specifically states that it is waterproof.

How to Choose a Waterproof Mattress Pad or Protector

Several factors make a difference when it comes to waterproof mattress protectors and pads. Each option varies in its construction, performance, level of cushioning, and more, so taking into account the various aspects of the product can help you select the best option for you.

What to Consider When Purchasing a Waterproof Mattress Protector or Pad

Promotional materials for waterproof mattress protectors and pads can be confusing. Manufacturers often market products to appeal to as broad an audience as possible. But while anyone may benefit from a waterproof mattress protector or pad, which item is right for you may depend on your personal preferences, sleep style, and the unique product features. We’ll break down some of the most important factors to consider.

Price
Waterproof mattress protectors and pads start at under $50 and go to over $150. Depending on your needs, you can find good options that’ll do the trick at either end of the price range. However, shoppers should keep in mind that quality typically matters more than price, and a high-quality option that costs more may be a better value if it offers more comprehensive protection and better durability.

Pad vs. Protector 
Shoppers often struggle to differentiate between pads and protectors, but they’re technically two different things. A pad provides some cushioning, while a protector typically does not noticeably affect the feel of the bed. Waterproof options are available within both product categories, but protectors more often provide this protection.

Waterproofing 
Waterproof pads and protectors typically use some type of backing material, membrane, or lamination on the underside to serve as a waterproof barrier. How the product is waterproofed could affect its breathability, durability, and whether it produces noise when the sleeper changes position. Polyurethane membranes are among the most common options since they can be quite thin, breathable, and virtually silent.

Quality Materials
The quality of the materials can affect the pad or protector’s performance, durability, and level of protection. A pad or protector made of high-quality materials should stand up to repeated washings to shield the bed for years to come, but lower-quality options may break down more quickly, jeopardizing the comfort and level of protection.

Cooling Properties
Many people struggle with overheating during the night, so some waterproof pads and protectors are engineered for cooling. Even if your existing mattress tends to trap heat, the right pad or protector could make the surface cooler to the touch and allow a bit more airflow to help combat excessive heat retention. Since pads and protectors often wick moisture away from the sleeper’s body, they may also help keep you dry if you sweat during the night.

Firmness Level 
Since protectors and pads are typically thin, manufacturers do not often list the firmness level in product descriptions. A protector shouldn’t noticeably affect the firmness of your sleep surface, but a pad may make it seem a bit softer thanks to its extra cushioning. If you’re looking to adjust the firmness of your bed, a mattress topper may be a better choice.

Thickness
Just as manufacturers do not usually list the firmness level of a pad or protector, they also do not usually note the thickness. This is because these products are relatively thin. However, product descriptions of mattress toppers traditionally include these measurements to give you an idea of how significantly they’ll change the feel of the bed.

Pressure Relief
Protectors and pads generally do not provide much pressure relief. Pads may perform slightly better in this category because of their extra cushioning, but sleepers looking for pressure relief may be better served by a topper. If you also want waterproofing and pressure relief, you could always use both a topper and a waterproof pad or protector.