How to Choose a Mattress Protector: Sizing, Materials, and Care Tips

Why a Mattress Protector is a must-have

A quality protector is like phone insurance for your bed: invisible until you need it. It helps:

• Block spills, sweat, and stains that void many mattress warranties
• Reduce dust mites, dead skin buildup, and odors for better sleep hygiene
• Keep your mattress feeling “like new” for longer—especially important for Bed Mattresses you want to protect for years
• Add a whisper-thin barrier without changing the feel of your Best Mattresses

Explore protectors now: Mattress Protector – Legend Sleep

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Main site: legendsleepsa.com

Step 1: Pick the right size (and depth)

Measure your mattress

1. Length & Width – measure the top surface edge to edge
2. Depth/Height – measure from the base to the very top (include any pillow-top)

Tip: Choose a protector that matches your mattress size and accommodates its height. If your bed is extra-deep, look for stretch skirts that fit 30–40 cm.

Common sizes (cm)

• 100 × 200
• 120 × 200
• 140 × 200
• 160 × 200
• 180 × 200
• 200 × 200

Fitted vs. encasement

• Fitted (5-sided): Like a deep fitted sheet; fast on/off; great daily protection from above and sides.
• Encasement (6-sided, zippered): Full wrap; best for allergy control and long-term hygiene (also helps deter bed bugs and dust mites).

 

Step 2: Choose the right material & finish

• Cotton terry + PU membrane
• Feel/Noise: Soft, slightly textured, very quiet
• Breathability: Good
• Waterproofing: Excellent
• Best for: Everyday family use, kids, strong spill protection
• Smooth knit jersey + PU membrane
• Feel/Noise: Silky, hotel-sheet feel, ultra-quiet
• Breathability: Good–very good
• Waterproofing: Excellent
• Best for: Hot sleepers who still want full waterproofing
• Bamboo-viscose + PU membrane
• Feel/Noise: Soft and naturally cool
• Breathability: Very good
• Waterproofing: Excellent
• Best for: Humid climates and heat control
• Tencel/Lyocell + PU membrane
• Feel/Noise: Silky with a luxe drape
• Breathability: Very good
• Waterproofing: Excellent
• Best for: Premium hand-feel with strong protection
• Quilted microfiber (non-membrane)
• Feel/Noise: Cushioned and plush
• Breathability: Good
• Waterproofing: Low–moderate (more “resistant” than “proof”)
• Best for: Light protection and adding softness (pair with a topper for extra comfort)

Note: PU (polyurethane) membranes block liquids while allowing vapor to pass, so you get reliable waterproofing without crinkly plastic sounds.

Step 3: Match features to your sleeping needs

• Waterproof rating: Look for fully waterproof (not just “water-resistant”) if you have kids, pets, or enjoy bedside coffee.
• Cooling priorities: Smooth knit, bamboo, or Tencel fabrics generally sleep cooler than heavy quilting.
• Motion & noise: Modern membrane protectors are whisper-quiet; avoid stiff, vinyl-like layers if you’re sensitive to sound.
• Deep mattresses & toppers: If you use a Mattress Topper, pick a protector with an “extra-deep” skirt or size up the skirt depth.
• Allergies/sensitive skin: Hypoallergenic fabrics + encasement styles help reduce irritants.
• Adjustable beds: Choose elasticized, high-stretch skirts to prevent slippage when the base moves.

 

Care, washing & longevity

Before first use: Wash once to activate softness and perfect the fit.

Routine care:

• Machine wash cold–warm (up to ~40°C).
• Mild detergent. No bleach, no fabric softener (they can damage the waterproof membrane).
• Tumble dry low or line dry.
• Wash monthly (or immediately after spills); pillow protectors can be washed more frequently.

Stain rescue: Blot spills immediately, rinse with cool water, then launder. Avoid hot water on fresh protein stains (can set them).

Replacement timeline: With regular care, a good protector lasts 2–3+ years. Replace earlier if the membrane is damaged or if fit loosens.

Quick Buy Checklist

• ✅ Correct size (e.g., 180×200)
• ✅ Correct depth for your mattress height (standard vs. extra-deep)
• ✅ Waterproof PU membrane (quiet, breathable)
• ✅ Cooling fabric if you sleep hot (bamboo/Tencel/smooth knit)
• ✅ Encasement if you want full 360° hygiene or allergy control
• ✅ Easy-wash, tumble-dry low instructions

FAQs

Q: Protector vs. Mattress Topper—what’s the difference?

A protector shields against spills, sweat, dust, and allergens without changing feel much. A topper changes comfort (softer/firmer). Many sleepers use both: topper for comfort + protector to keep everything clean.

Q: Will a protector make my bed hot or noisy?

Modern breathable membranes are quiet and designed to reduce heat buildup. Choose lighter, smooth knits or bamboo/Tencel if you’re a hot sleeper.

Q: How often should I wash it?

Monthly is a good rule; more often for kids/pets or during allergy season.

Q: Can I use it with memory foam or latex?

Yes—just pick a breathable, stretchy fabric so you keep the original feel of your Bed Mattress or Orthopedic Mattresses.

 

Ready to protect your mattress?

Keep your bed hotel-fresh and warranty-safe. Shop Mattress Protector – Legend Sleep

and explore the rest of our Bed Mattress collection and Bed Mattress Offers at legendsleepsa.com.