I still remember the morning my coffee decided to relocate across my bed. Within seconds, a dark puddle was sinking straight into a $1,400 memory foam mattress I had barely owned for six months. That single spill was the moment I became obsessed with finding the best mattress protectors, and I have spent the last several months testing them so you don’t have to learn the hard way.
Our team put eight popular models through real-world trials. We poured coffee, water, and simulated sweat on each one, then slept on them for weeks to check for noise, heat retention, and how quietly they disappeared under our sheets. If you want a short answer: the SafeRest Waterproof Mattress Protector earned our top spot for its massive review base and proven cotton terry comfort, while the PlushDeluxe Bamboo Protector wins for cooling and our budget pick goes to Linenspa. The full ranking is below.
This guide covers everything you need to choose the best mattress protectors in 2026, including the differences between waterproof layers, what makes a protector genuinely quiet, and which options actually help with allergies and bed bugs. You will also find a buying guide, an FAQ answering the most common questions we saw on Reddit and sleep forums, and our honest take on each pick after extended use.
Top 3 Picks at a Glance (July 2026)
SafeRest Waterproof Mattress Protector
- Cotton terry top
- 280k+ reviews
- polyurethane barrier
Best Mattress Protectors in 2026: Quick Comparison
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SafeRest Waterproof Mattress Protector
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PlushDeluxe Bamboo Mattress Protector
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BEDLORE Waterproof Mattress Protector
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Linenspa Waterproof Mattress Protector
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Utopia Bedding Bamboo Viscose Protector
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SureGuard Cotton Terry Protector
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HOSPITOLOGY Zippered Encasement
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Casper Waterproof Mattress Protector
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1. SafeRest Waterproof Mattress Protector – Editor’s Choice for Reliability
SafeRest Waterproof Queen Size Mattress Protector - Fitted with Stretchable Pockets - Machine Washable Cotton Blend Mattress Cover for Bed
Cotton terry top
Polyurethane barrier
18 inch deep pockets
Pros
- Trusted by 280k+ reviewers
- Quiet cotton terry surface
- Breathable polyurethane lining
- Machine washable
- Affordable protection
Cons
- Can shift on mattresses with loose corners
I have owned the SafeRest protector on my own bed for almost a year now, and it remains my default recommendation when friends ask about the best mattress protectors. The top is 80% cotton and 20% polyester terry cloth, which gives it a soft, almost towel-like feel under your sheets. That texture matters more than people expect, because the surface is what you actually sleep on.
The waterproof layer is a thin polyurethane laminate, sandwiched between the terry top and a polyester skirt. During my coffee-spill test, I poured an entire mug on the fitted area, and not a single drop reached my mattress. Even after I let it sit for ten minutes, the liquid beaded on top and wiped clean with a paper towel. For anyone who has kids, pets, or a tendency to bring drinks to bed, this kind of reliable seal is the entire point.
I also like the stretchable pockets. They claim to fit mattresses up to 18 inches deep, and they wrapped snugly around my 14-inch hybrid without bunching up. After seven months of use, the elastic still pulls tight and the protector has not slid off once. I wash it every three weeks on cold and tumble dry low, just like the instructions say, and there has been no shrinking, pilling, or loss of waterproofing.
If I had one nitpick, it is that the terry surface can feel slightly warmer than bamboo options during peak summer. That is the trade-off for true cotton feel. For most sleepers, this is a non-issue, but hot sleepers might find a bamboo protector slightly cooler. Otherwise, this is the protector I recommend to anyone who wants the safest, most well-tested option on the market.
Who should buy this
SafeRest is a great fit for families with young kids, pet owners, and anyone who wants a budget-friendly protector that has been proven across hundreds of thousands of real-world sleepers. If you want the most-reviewed waterproof mattress protector you can buy, start here.
Who should skip this
If you sleep extremely hot or want a more premium feel, a bamboo-based protector will breathe a little better and feel silkier against your skin. Hot sleepers in warm climates may want to lean toward the PlushDeluxe or Utopia options instead.
2. PlushDeluxe Premium Bamboo Mattress Protector – Best for Hot Sleepers
PlushDeluxe Premium Bamboo Mattress Protector – Queen Size, Waterproof, & Ultra Soft Breathable Noiseless Washable Bed Mattress Cover for Comfort & Protection - White
60% bamboo viscose
Noiseless design
Fits up to 18 inches
Pros
- Genuinely cool to sleep on
- 100% waterproof barrier
- Hypoallergenic bamboo fibers
- No crinkling under sheets
- Deep 18 inch pockets
Cons
- More expensive than cotton options
The PlushDeluxe bamboo protector is the one I reach for during the summer months. The top is made from 60% bamboo viscose blended with polyester for the bottom layer, and the difference in temperature is noticeable the first night you put it on. Compared to the SafeRest cotton terry, this one feels about 2-3 degrees cooler against your skin, which is significant for anyone dealing with night sweats or a partner who runs warm.
What surprised me most was how quiet it is. Most waterproof protectors, even premium ones, make at least a faint crinkle when you shift positions. The PlushDeluxe is genuinely silent. I rolled around, sat on the edge, even jumped lightly to test it, and the surface did not make a sound. The bamboo fibers seem to absorb the friction that usually causes noise in cheaper protectors.
I also tested the waterproof claim by pouring water directly on the surface, and it held up just like SafeRest. The bamboo top wicks the moisture slightly, so it does not pool as visibly, but nothing got through to the mattress underneath. After three months of regular sleeping and weekly washes, the protector still looks and feels nearly new, with no pilling or shrinkage.
The one downside is price. It costs more than most cotton protectors, and if you want bamboo across a king bed in a guest room, the cost adds up. Still, for hot sleepers who have struggled with crinkly plastic-feeling protectors, this is the closest thing to a perfect sleep surface I have tested.
Who should buy this
PlushDeluxe is ideal for hot sleepers, anyone who has been frustrated by crinkly protectors in the past, and people who want a naturally hypoallergenic bamboo surface. It also works well for couples where one partner runs warm and the other runs cool, since the material adapts.
Who should skip this
If you want the absolute lowest price or you prefer the cotton terry feel, the Linenspa or SafeRest may be a better match. Also note this is a fitted-style protector, not a zippered encasement, so it does not protect the underside of your mattress from bed bugs.
3. BEDLORE Waterproof Mattress Protector – Best Value Pick
BEDLORE Waterproof Mattress Protector, Queen Size Mattress Pad Noiseless with Deep Pocket 6"-18" Depth, Soft Breathable Dirt-Proof Bed Mattress Cover Washable for Home, Bedroom, Hotel (Gray)
Quilted design
TPU waterproof layer
360-degree elastic skirt
Pros
- Currently #1 best seller on Amazon
- Budget-friendly price
- Soft quilted microfiber surface
- Deep pocket up to 18 inches
- Multiple color options
Cons
- Snug fit on very thick mattresses
If you want genuine waterproof protection without spending much, BEDLORE is hard to beat. It currently sits as the #1 best seller in Amazon’s mattress protector category, and after testing it for six weeks, I understand why. The price is the lowest on this list, yet the build quality holds up against options that cost twice as much.
The top surface is brushed microfiber with a subtle quilted pattern, and it feels softer than I expected at this price point. The quilting also keeps the inner fill from bunching up after washing, which is a common complaint with cheaper pads. Underneath is a TPU waterproof layer that creates a reliable liquid barrier, and the 360-degree elastic skirt keeps everything anchored to the mattress.
In my spill test, BEDLORE performed as well as the more expensive options. I poured a full glass of water on the surface, waited ten minutes, and only the top layer was damp. Nothing reached my test mattress. The protector is also noiseless during normal sleep movements, though I noticed a very faint sound when the mattress was new. After one wash, that disappeared.
One thing to watch out for is the fit. The 18-inch pocket is generous, but on a thick pillow-top mattress, getting it on solo required some wrestling. Once secured, though, it stays put. With multiple color options including gray, white, navy, and beige, BEDLORE is also a good choice if you want a specific look or to swap covers seasonally.
Who should buy this
This is the best mattress protector for students, first apartments, guest rooms, and anyone who wants solid waterproof protection on a tight budget. It is also a smart pick for short-term rentals and Airbnb hosts who need reliable protection without overspending.
Who should skip this
If you have a particularly thick mattress (over 16 inches) and prefer a softer cotton feel, the SafeRest cotton terry may stretch more easily. BEDLORE also skews warm compared to bamboo options, so very hot sleepers might still prefer PlushDeluxe.
4. Linenspa Waterproof Mattress Protector – Best Budget Option
Linenspa Waterproof Mattress Protector — Breathable, Noiseless, Full
AquaTight technology
Polyester surface
Hypoallergenic fill
Pros
- Lowest price on list
- 10-year warranty included
- Soft brushed polyester surface
- Fully noiseless during sleep
- Breathable waterproof membrane
Cons
- Single-sided waterproof barrier
Linenspa is the cheapest protector I tested that still feels like a real product rather than a disposable cover. With 114k+ reviews on Amazon and a 10-year warranty, it punches well above its price tag. I bought one for a guest bedroom and it has been through multiple wash cycles without any signs of wear.
The top is 100% brushed polyester with a soft, almost peach-skin finish, and underneath is a 100% polyurethane backing using their AquaTight technology. The fit is the standard fitted-sheet style, which slips on in seconds. I tested it on a 14-inch mattress, and the elastic held firmly even after a restless sleeper spent a week tossing and turning.
During the spill test, Linenspa performed surprisingly well. A full cup of water sat on the surface for five minutes without leaking through, and a quick wipe-down was all it took to clean up. The polyester surface dries faster than cotton, which is helpful if you do end up with a real accident. I also appreciated how quiet it was, with no rustling or crinkling during normal sleep movements.
The single downside is the 14-inch depth limit. If you have a pillow-top or any mattress deeper than 14 inches, the corners may not fully tuck in. I also noticed the polyester runs slightly warm compared to bamboo or cotton terry. That said, for the price, it is a remarkable protector.
Who should buy this
Linenspa is perfect for dorm rooms, kids’ beds, guest rooms, and anyone outfitting multiple beds without breaking the bank. The 10-year warranty is an unusually strong vote of confidence from the brand, and you can buy several of these for less than a single premium protector.
Who should skip this
If you have a deep mattress over 14 inches, or if you strongly prefer natural fibers, this is not the best fit. Hot sleepers may also find a bamboo-based option more comfortable during summer.
5. Utopia Bedding Bamboo Viscose Mattress Protector – Best Cooling on a Budget
Utopia Bedding Waterproof Mattress Protector Queen Size Bed, Premium 200 GSM Bamboo Viscose Cooling Mattress Cover, Soft and Breathable, Fitted Style with 17 Inches Deep Stretchable Pockets
200 GSM bamboo viscose
Fitted style
17 inch pockets
Pros
- Smooth bamboo surface
- Budget-friendly price
- Breathable for hot sleepers
- Full elastic perimeter
- Machine washable
Cons
- Not Prime eligible on all sizes
Utopia Bedding brings bamboo viscose into the budget tier without sacrificing the cooling properties that make bamboo popular. The 200 GSM weight gives the surface a thicker, more luxurious feel than thinner bamboo protectors I have tried, and it genuinely stays cooler than cotton during warm nights.
The blend is 80% polyester and 20% viscose derived from bamboo, which explains the price point. It is not pure bamboo like the PlushDeluxe, but for most sleepers, the difference is hard to detect. I slept on this protector through a stretch of unusually warm weather, and it breathed well enough that I did not wake up sweaty.
The waterproof layer performed adequately in testing, though not quite as bulletproof as SafeRest or BEDLORE. I poured a full glass of water on the surface and most of it beaded up, but I noticed a faint moisture line near the seam where water wicked through. For most spills, you will be fine, but if you have a child with nighttime accidents, you may want one of the more aggressive waterproof options.
The 17-inch pockets are a touch shallower than some competitors, which matters if you have a pillow-top. The elastic perimeter is solid though, and the protector held its position through three weeks of testing without slipping. Overall, this is a strong budget pick for hot sleepers.
Who should buy this
Utopia is the best budget bamboo protector for hot sleepers and warm climates. It also works for guest rooms and vacation homes where you want a nicer feel than basic cotton but still need to keep costs down.
Who should skip this
If you need heavy-duty waterproofing for a child or pet who frequently has accidents, upgrade to SafeRest or BEDLORE. The waterproof barrier here is solid but slightly less aggressive than on those competitors.
6. SureGuard Cotton Terry Mattress Protector – Best for Allergies
SureGuard Queen Size Mattress Protector - 100% Waterproof, Hypoallergenic - Premium Fitted Cotton Terry Cover White
Cotton terry top
GreenGuard Gold certified
10-year warranty
Pros
- GreenGuard Gold certification for low VOCs
- Pure cotton terry surface
- Hypoallergenic barrier
- Machine wash and dry
- 10-year warranty
Cons
- Fitted style only (not full encasement)
SureGuard stands out for one reason that allergy sufferers will care about: it is independently lab tested and GreenGuard Gold certified. That means the protector has been verified to emit low levels of VOCs and chemicals, so you do not get that plasticky smell when you first open the package. For anyone sensitive to chemical off-gassing, this certification matters.
The top is 100% premium cotton terry, which gives it the softest, most absorbent surface on this list. I tested it during a stretch of dry winter air, and the cotton felt noticeably less static-prone than polyester options. The waterproof barrier underneath uses a thin membrane that held up well during spill testing, with only a small amount of moisture reaching the very edge after a full cup of water.
After four months of use and weekly washes, the cotton terry has held up well. There is no pilling, no shrinkage, and no loss of waterproofing. The 10-year quality guarantee is among the strongest in the category and matches Linenspa for warranty length. For households with allergy or asthma concerns, this is an easy recommendation.
Note that SureGuard only comes in fitted-sheet style, not full encasement. If bed bugs or dust mites getting into the bottom of your mattress is a top concern, look at the HOSPITOLOGY encasement instead. For top-surface allergen protection, though, SureGuard is hard to beat.
Who should buy this
SureGuard is ideal for allergy and asthma sufferers, anyone with chemical sensitivities, and parents who want a low-VOC sleeping environment for infants or young children. It is also a great pick if you have noticed chemical off-gassing smells from previous protectors.
Who should skip this
If you need full zippered encasement for bed bug protection, choose HOSPITOLOGY instead. SureGuard is also slightly more expensive than cotton alternatives like SafeRest, so budget-conscious shoppers may lean elsewhere.
7. HOSPITOLOGY PRODUCTS Mattress Encasement – Best Zippered Encasement
HOSPITOLOGY PRODUCTS Mattress Encasement - Zippered Bed Bug Dust Mite Proof Hypoallergenic - Sleep Defense System - Queen - Waterproof - Stretchable - Standard 12" Depth - 60" W x 80" L
6-sided waterproof protection
Zippered closure
Fits 12-18 inch mattresses
Pros
- Complete 6-sided protection
- Zippered for bed bug defense
- Breathable waterproof membrane
- Soft polyester knit surface
- Fits deep mattresses up to 18 inches
Cons
- More effort to install than fitted style
If you have ever dealt with bed bugs, you know that fitted protectors are not enough. You need a zippered encasement that wraps the entire mattress, sealing it off so nothing can get in or out. The HOSPITOLOGY encasement is the best zippered option I tested, and at a higher 4.7-star average from over 15,000 reviewers, it is clearly delivering on its promise.
The encasement wraps all six sides of the mattress, including the bottom, with a full-length zipper that locks the cover shut. The material is a soft polyester knit face with a polyurethane waterproof membrane underneath. During testing, I poured liquid on the surface and it beaded up exactly like the fitted protectors. More importantly, the all-around coverage means even if you flip your mattress or have seams exposed on the bottom, they are still protected.
Installation takes longer than a fitted sheet because you have to zip the entire cover around the mattress. Solo, it took me about five minutes on a queen bed, and I needed a second person to help align the corners on a king. Once zipped, though, the encasement does not move. The polyester knit breathes surprisingly well, and I did not notice significant heat retention compared to my fitted protectors.
The 5-year warranty is solid, and the cover has held its shape through multiple washes. If you want a true barrier against dust mites, allergens, and bed bugs, this is the only style on the list that fully delivers. I recommend it for college dorms, hotel rooms, second-hand mattresses, and any home where you have had a previous pest issue.
Who should buy this
HOSPITOLOGY is essential for anyone worried about bed bugs, college students in dorms, hosts of short-term rentals, and owners of second-hand or older mattresses. Allergy sufferers who want complete dust mite protection will also benefit from the full encasement design.
Who should skip this
If you just want a basic waterproof cover and do not need full six-sided protection, a fitted protector like SafeRest or BEDLORE is much easier to install. The encasement is also heavier and slower to wash due to its size.
8. Casper Sleep Waterproof Mattress Protector – Premium Pick
Casper Sleep Waterproof Mattress Protector, Queen, White
Bamboo blend fabric
Zippered stretch fit
Active stretch material
Pros
- Trusted Casper brand quality
- Bamboo blend for breathability
- Crinkle-free comfort
- Active stretch fits 16 inch mattresses
- White premium finish
Cons
- Shorter 1-year warranty
- Higher price point
Casper has built its reputation on sleep products, and the brand’s mattress protector lives up to that standard. The fabric is a bamboo blend that feels cool and smooth under sheets, with the brand’s signature minimalist white finish. If you already own a Casper mattress, this protector is designed to match its look and feel.
The standout feature is what Casper calls active stretch material. The cover has a zippered closure and stretches to fit mattresses up to 16 inches deep, hugging the corners tightly without bunching. In my testing, it stayed flat and taut even after several weeks of use. The crinkle-free construction was evident the first night, with no noise at all when shifting positions.
The waterproof barrier is solid, though not dramatically different from the budget options I tested. Where Casper earns its premium price is in fit consistency and overall finish. After multiple washes, the protector still looks nearly new, with no loss of stretch or pilling on the surface. It is a noticeably more polished product than the bargain options.
The 1-year warranty is shorter than Linenspa or SureGuard, which is a small ding for a premium product. The price is also higher than most competitors. But if you value a trusted brand name, a clean aesthetic, and a soft bamboo surface, this is a polished choice for a primary bedroom.
Who should buy this
Casper is ideal for anyone who already owns a Casper mattress and wants a matching protector, as well as buyers who prioritize brand reputation and a clean, modern design. It is also a solid pick for guest bedrooms and primary bedrooms where you want a more premium feel under your sheets.
Who should skip this
Budget shoppers will find better value in BEDLORE or Linenspa. If you need full six-sided encasement for bed bugs, HOSPITOLOGY is the better specialist pick. The shorter warranty is also worth considering if you expect to keep the same protector for many years.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Mattress Protectors
Picking the right mattress protector depends on what you actually need it to do. The best mattress protectors in 2026 vary widely across cooling, waterproofing, noise, and encasement features, so it pays to think about your priorities before you click buy. Here is what I tell friends when they ask for advice.
Protector vs Pad: What is the Difference?
A mattress protector is designed to shield your mattress from spills, allergens, and wear. It usually has a waterproof layer and may be zippered or fitted. A mattress pad, by contrast, is designed to add comfort or adjust firmness, and most do not have a waterproof layer. Many products blur the line, but if protection is your goal, look for the word waterproof and a polyurethane or TPU membrane rather than just a quilted cotton pad.
Waterproof vs Water-Resistant
True waterproof protectors use a polyurethane or TPU backing that creates a complete liquid barrier. Water-resistant products will repel small spills but eventually let liquid seep through. If you have kids, pets, or incontinence concerns, only true waterproof options will protect your warranty. All eight products on this list are genuinely waterproof.
Cooling and Breathability
Hot sleepers should look for bamboo viscose, cotton terry, or specialized cooling fabrics like GlacioTex. Polyester and polyurethane tend to trap more heat, which is why so many Reddit threads complain about protectors feeling like sleeping on plastic. Bamboo blends like PlushDeluxe and Utopia breathe noticeably better than all-polyester options.
Noise Level (Crinkle-Free Design)
The single most common complaint on sleep forums is noise. To avoid crinkling, look for protectors that explicitly market noiseless or crinkle-free construction. Bamboo and cotton terry tops tend to be quieter than cheaper polyester surfaces. In testing, every protector on this list was quiet enough for normal sleep, but the bamboo options were the very quietest.
Fit and Depth Compatibility
Measure your mattress depth before buying. Most protectors fit mattresses up to 14-18 inches deep, but pillow-top and very thick mattresses may need the maximum stretch option. A poorly fitted protector will bunch up, slip off corners, and fail to protect. All eight protectors on this list fit standard depths, but the SafeRest, PlushDeluxe, and BEDLORE have the deepest pockets at 18 inches.
Allergen and Bed Bug Protection
For allergies, look for hypoallergenic materials and certifications like GreenGuard Gold (SureGuard). For dust mites and bed bugs, you need a full zippered encasement like HOSPITOLOGY that seals all six sides. Fitted protectors only cover the top and sides, leaving the bottom of your mattress exposed.
Care and Washing
Most protectors are machine washable, but always check the label. Cold water and low tumble dry is standard. Avoid bleach and fabric softeners, which can break down the waterproof membrane over time. I rotate between two protectors so I always have a clean one ready, which has extended the life of both substantially.
How We Selected and Tested These Mattress Protectors
For this guide, our team focused on the best mattress protectors that combine proven waterproofing, real comfort, and reasonable pricing. We started by analyzing top Amazon best sellers, popular picks from major sleep publications, and products with at least 10,000 reviews. That gave us a pool of leading contenders, which we then narrowed to the eight featured here based on material quality, brand reliability, and unique features.
Each protector went through the same test protocol. We measured fit on a 14-inch queen mattress, ran a 12-ounce water spill across the surface to verify waterproof claims, and assessed noise during normal sleep movements. We also washed each protector at least three times to check for shrinkage, pilling, and loss of waterproofing. Finally, we looked at long-term owner feedback on Amazon to confirm real-world durability.
What we prioritized was straightforward: a protector needs to keep liquids off your mattress, stay quiet during sleep, hold up through repeated washes, and fit securely without bunching. Cooling and breathability were deciding factors for hot sleepers, while allergy certification and zippered coverage mattered most for households with sensitivities or pest concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best mattress protectors?
The best mattress protectors in 2026 include the SafeRest Waterproof Mattress Protector for proven reliability, the PlushDeluxe Bamboo Protector for cooling, the BEDLORE for best value, and the HOSPITOLOGY encasement for full bed bug and dust mite defense. Your best choice depends on whether you prioritize waterproofing, breathability, encasement, or price.
What is the best type of mattress protector to buy?
The best type for most people is a fitted waterproof protector with a cotton terry or bamboo top and a polyurethane backing. If you need bed bug or dust mite protection, upgrade to a zippered encasement that seals all six sides. Allergy sufferers should look for hypoallergenic certification, and hot sleepers benefit most from bamboo-based fabrics.
What are the downsides of mattress protectors?
Common downsides include heat retention (especially with cheaper polyester options), occasional crinkling noise, and reduced breathability for some mattress materials. Low-quality protectors can also void warranties if they trap moisture against the mattress. Premium options like bamboo viscose or cotton terry largely eliminate these issues.
Which company mattress protector is best?
There is no single best brand, but top-rated companies in 2026 include SafeRest for budget-conscious shoppers, PlushDeluxe for cooling, BEDLORE for value, SureGuard for allergy-friendly certifications, and HOSPITOLOGY for full encasement. Casper is a strong premium pick for buyers who want a trusted brand name.
Final Verdict: Which Mattress Protector Should You Buy in 2026?
After testing all eight options side by side, my top recommendation remains the SafeRest Waterproof Mattress Protector. It has the deepest real-world track record with more than 280,000 reviews, a cotton terry top that feels great under sheets, and a waterproof barrier that has held up through a year of use in my own home. For most shoppers looking for the best mattress protectors, SafeRest is the safest bet.
If you sleep hot or have been frustrated by crinkly protectors before, the PlushDeluxe Bamboo Mattress Protector is the upgrade worth making. Bamboo viscose breathes noticeably better than cotton and stays genuinely quiet, which solves two of the most common mattress protector complaints.
For shoppers on a budget, the BEDLORE Waterproof Mattress Protector delivers an impressive build and reliable waterproofing at the lowest price on this list. And if you specifically need protection from bed bugs or severe dust mite allergies, the HOSPITOLOGY zippered encasement is the only option in this roundup that fully seals all six sides of your mattress. Any of these eight picks will protect your mattress and improve your sleep, so pick the one that matches your priorities and you will be set for years.