11 best mattress protectors to keep your mattress in tip-top condition
Designed to keep your bed fresh and extend the life of your mattress, the best mattress protectors are an easy upgrade that can make a noticeable difference to sleep quality. Many modern mattress protectors are designed with advanced materials that offer additional benefits, such as temperature regulation, moisture-wicking properties, and breathability. These features help to create a more comfortable sleep surface, promoting better airflow and regulating body temperature throughout the night, which can lead to improved sleep quality.
A high-quality mattress topper acts as a barrier against common threats to your mattress, such as spills, stains, dust mites, and allergens. By creating a protective shield, it safeguards your mattress from liquid damage, whether it's caused by spills, accidents, or perspiration, therefore preventing moisture from seeping into the mattress layers and causing mould or mildew growth. Additionally, a mattress protector helps to repel dust mites and allergens, ensuring a cleaner and healthier sleep environment.
We've found plenty of reliable mattress protectors available to shop now, featuring a range of options from sleep tech brands like Nectar and Simba to more budget-friendly choices from Dusk and Dunelm. Whether you're in search of a cooling mattress topper, a waterproof mattress protector, a bamboo mattress protector, or a luxuriously quilted option, our edit has something to cater to every need. Scroll down to see our picks of the best mattress protectors to shop in 2025.
How we test
By sifting through customer ratings, conducting hands-on testing, reading through your faqs, and analysing search history data, we've selected what we believe are the best mattress protectors and covers available. We've had hands-on testing experience at home and while we've tested over 21 mattress protectors, these final 11 get the GLAMOUR seal of approval. Ahead, find discover comprehensive reviews accompanied by our tester's insights into the strengths and weaknesses of each mattress protector so you can make an informed decision before investing.
What is the best mattress protector on the market? Scroll for our full edit.
Simba Performance Mattress Protector
Specifications:
- Sizes available: Single, EU single, small double, double, EU double, EU queen, king, super king.
- Materials: Cotton cover, skirt and filling (+3% other fibres) with a polypropylene lining.
- Waterproof? No.
What better way to protect your Simba mattress than with the brand’s own protector? It's breathable - ideal for hot sleepers - and features Bi-Ome® technology to keep it odour-free, hygienic, and in great condition for years.
The extra layer of cushion padding genuinely improved the comfort of our Simba mattress - something we noticed right away. We also appreciated the generous 40cm depth, which meant it fit snugly around our mattress and stayed securely in place all night.
While it's on the pricier side, its quality and durability justify the investment. It’s not waterproof, which would be a plus, but it is machine washable (just be sure to use non-bio detergent).
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Pros & ConsPros- Stays in place, has a nice bed mattress quilting, and is soft to the touch.
- The cover is machine washable.
Cons- It's not waterproof.
Dusk Luxury Quilted Mattress Protector
Specifications:
- Sizes available: single, double, king, super king.
- Materials: 100% Cotton.
- Waterproof? No.
The quilted mattress protector from Dusk is offered in standard sizes, with options for either a standard (30cm) or deep fitted (35cm) design. Made entirely from 100% cotton, it guarantees year-round breathability while maintaining the pristine condition of your mattress.
It’s one of the best-value options in our roundup, but still feels high quality thanks to its cotton construction. You can also machine wash it at 40°C and tumble dry on low, which adds to the convenience.
Customers have praised this cotton protector for its excellent quality, highly recommending it, especially considering the promotional price. While the temperature regulation wasn’t as noticeable as some others and it’s not waterproof, it’s still a solid choice for affordable mattress protection.
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Pros & ConsPros- Affordable price point.
- Available in standard and deep bedding depth options.
Cons- Nothing of note!
Marks & Spencer Pure Cotton Mattress Protector
Specifications:
- Sizes available: Single, double, king, super king.
- Materials: 100% cotton.
- Waterproof? No.
Available in single, double, king, super king, and extra deep sizes, this mattress protector is quilted for comfort and made with naturally breathable cotton to ensure a cosy night’s sleep.
Durable and well-fitting, it has a depth of 30cm and prolongs the life of your mattress by keeping it from discolouring and protecting it from stains and general wear and tear. In terms of functionality, it folds down to a compact size for easy storage and is of great quality considering the price.
Take note: During our home tests, we noticed it shrinks slightly after washing, but it still fit snugly around our mattress.
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Pros & ConsPros- Helps natural fibre mattresses breathe.
- Generously sized for a secure fit.
- Stays fresh over time.
Cons- Not a top pick for bed wetting – too absorbent.
Specifications:
- Sizes available: Single bed, small double, double, king size, super king size.
- Materials: Tencel® jersey cover, polyester skirt and polyurethane film lining.
- Waterproof? Yes!
We found Nectar’s mattress protector to be a well-fitting and effective way to keep our mattress clean, dry, and cool throughout the night. It creates a discreet, breathable barrier that genuinely made a difference to our sleep comfort.
The top layer is made from Tencel – a fabric we’ve come to appreciate for its eco-friendly credentials and breathability. It felt silky soft to the touch and noticeably cooling while in bed, especially during warmer nights. The stretchy fit hugged our mattress snugly and stayed smooth without bunching at the corners.
The protector is fully waterproof thanks to a PU layer, but it still feels soft and comfortable to lie on. While we did notice a slight rustling sound when moving around, it wasn’t something that disturbed our sleep. Since it can’t be tumble-dried, we’d recommend having a second one on hand so your mattress is always protected, even while the first is air-drying.
Pros & ConsPros- Fully waterproof, with no noticeable PU layer feel underneath.
- Well-fitting and protective, with a breathable layer that keeps you cool and your mattress dry.
Cons- Slight rustling noise when moving in bed.
- Not suitable for tumble drying.
REM-Fit Tencel Cool Mattress Protector
Specifications:
- Sizes available: Small single, single, small double, double, queen, king, super king.
- Materials: 100% hypoallergenic and eco-friendly Tercel fibres.
- Waterproof? Yes.
Designed with luxurious fabrics that include silent Tencel fibres renowned for their durability, hypoallergenic properties, and silky texture, this mattress protector also incorporates a clever “Miracle Membrane” barrier to shield you from dust mites and other allergens, while its moisture-wicking fabric ensures you remain cool and comfortable, effectively combating night sweats.
The protector stretches easily to fit mattresses up to 35cm deep, so it worked perfectly on our mattress without any struggle. The Tencel fabric feels smooth and soft to the touch, and it genuinely helps keep you cool throughout the night. We noticed it made a difference during warmer nights - no overheating, just a comfortably cool surface to sleep on.
Pros & ConsPros- Boasts a high quality finish.
- Swift delivery, with excellent customer service.
Cons- Premium price point.
Marks & Spencer Pure Cotton Mattress Protector
Specifications:
- Sizes available: Single, double, king, super king.
- Materials: 100% cotton.
- Waterproof? No.
Effectively compatible with mattresses up to 30cm in depth, this protector extends the lifespan of your mattress by safeguarding it from discolouration and everyday wear and tear, promoting a fresher and more hygienic sleeping environment.
It's luxuriously quilted with naturally breathable cotton, guaranteeing a supremely comfortable night’s rest. Moreover, M&S has committed to promoting responsible cotton production, and this protector utilises Better Cotton, ethically sourced for sustainability.
One customer expressed disappointment solely in the cover's excessive depth, resembling an extra-deep fit that they didn't require. However, it's worth keeping in mind that this may accommodate any potential shrinkage during a machine wash.
Pros & ConsPros- Affordable price point.
- Quilted with naturally breathable cotton for added comfort.
- Promotes fresher and more hygienic sleep.
Cons- Limited to mattresses up to 30cm deep.
The White Company Temperature Balance Quilted Mattress Protector
Specifications:
- Sizes available: Single, double, king, super king, emperor.
- Materials: 100% cotton.
- Waterproof? No.
If you seek a luxurious mattress protector to combat night sweats, this could be an ideal choice. Utilising cutting-edge NASA-developed technology, the 100% cotton fabric efficiently stores surplus heat until your body temperature lowers, gradually releasing it to maintain a steady temperature, all while ensuring a soft and comfortable feel.
We found it kept us warm and cosy during the winter, thanks to its plush feel. Now, as we head into warmer months, the temperature regulation keeps us comfortably cool by adapting to our body’s individual temperature.
While we don't have any complaints about the mattress protector itself, it's worth noting that at £100 for a single size, it's a steep investment.
Soak & Sleep Waterproof Coolmax Pillow and Mattress Protectors
Specifications:
- Sizes available: In the bundle pack – king, in the mattress protector alone – single, double, king, super king and emperor.
- Materials: ‘Coolmax’ breathable fabric and polyester.
- Waterproof? Yes!
Soak&Sleep's waterproof protector is too good to pass up on and, with Coolmax fabric to wick away moisture and keep you cool and dry, no matter the weather, it's one we're adding to our wish lists straight away, if not our shopping baskets right now.
It feels soft and smooth to the touch, with a flat profile, light quilting, and an elasticated jersey skirt that securely fits even deep mattresses. We found our mattress felt even more comfortable with the quilted layer of this protector, and there was none of the rustling you often get with waterproof designs.
The only downsides are that while it handles minor spills well, larger amounts of liquid left sitting may eventually seep out at the edges. The extra-deep 35cm skirt may also be a tad too roomy for some shallow mattresses, but you only need to tuck it in to fix that problem.
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Pros & ConsPros- Waterproofing is silent and undetectable throughout the night.
- Practical and good value.
- Affordable price point.
Cons- Extra-deep 35cm skirt may be loose on some mattresses.
Panda Bamboo Mattress Protector
Specifications:
- Sizes available: Cot, cotbed, single, small double, double, king, super king, EU single, EU double, EU king, EU emperor.
- Materials: Hypoallergenic and antimicrobial bamboo, plus Nano TPU™.
- Waterproof? Yes.
Good for hot sleepers, waterproof and sustainable? This Panda mattress protector is silky soft to sleep on, whisper quiet when you move and just an all-around good choice.
Super soft and cooling on the skin, it fit our deep mattress perfectly, and we slept soundly knowing we’d chosen an eco-friendly option. The bamboo used is sustainably grown, requiring a third less water than cotton, with no pesticides, fertilisers, or chemicals involved. Plus, the protector comes in a recycled and recyclable box.
Bamboo’s natural antibacterial properties also make it virtually inhospitable to dust mites and other parasites, while its hypoallergenic qualities are a huge bonus for anyone with allergies. And the best part? There’s no compromise on comfort.
Pros & ConsPros- Super soft and gentle on the skin.
- Cooling for added comfort.
- Perfect fit for deep mattresses.
Cons- None here!
Dunelm Fogarty Soft Touch Mattress Protector
Specifications:
- Sizes available: Single, small double, double, king, super king.
- Materials: 100% Polyester.
- Waterproof? No.
Tailored for taller mattresses ranging from 30-35cm deep, this protector boasts an embossed microfibre cover, providing a luxuriously soft feel. Filled with hollow fibre for added comfort, it includes elasticated corners for easy fitting and is conveniently machine washable for simple maintenance.
While it's not waterproof, it is suitable to pop in a washing machine and safe for tumble drying on a low heat setting. Buyers commend the excellent quality, noting the soft and padded texture, along with its perfect fit fora taller mattress.
Pros & ConsPros- Available in a range of depths and bed sizes.
- Affordable price point.
- Elasticated corners to keep in place.
Cons- Not waterproof.
Fine Bedding Quilted Luxury Waterproof Mattress Protector
Specifications:
- Sizes available: Single, double, king, super king.
- Materials: 100% Polyester.
- Waterproof? Yes.
With a built-in polyurethane layer providing waterproof protection against spills, and soft polyester quilting offering an exceptionally plush feel, this mattress protector also functions as a barrier against dust mites, while adding a thin cushioning layer to your mattress for increased comfort.
It accommodates mattresses up to 28cm in height, making it unsuitable for slightly taller mattresses; therefore, it's advisable to check your mattress dimensions beforehand.
Pros & ConsPros- The cover fits the mattress well and feels delightfully soft.
- Glowing reviews from customers.
Cons- Only accommodates mattresses up to 28cm in height,
Mattress protector FAQs
What to consider when purchasing a mattress protector
First thing's first: there are a few different types of mattress protectors on the market.
- Skirted mattress protectors. These are the most common kind of mattress protectors and they fit like a traditional fitted sheet would. They feature a skirt that fits under the four corners of your mattress and covers the top and all four sides.
- Encased mattress protectors. These are a lot less common and encase the entire mattress, fastening with a zip. They protect not only the top and sides but the bottom of your mattress, too. This is great if you want to protect against bed bugs or dust mites, but they are trickier to fit and more expensive.
- Mattress protectors with elastic straps. These are the most affordable and offer the least amount of protection. The protector only covers the top of the mattress, leaving the sides bare; it's fastened with elastic straps to each corner.
What mattress protector features to consider
- The fabric. You'll most commonly have the choice of a cotton, synthetic or wool mattress protector. Cotton is breathable and can be purchased as hypoallergenic, while synthetic is the most affordable (yet least durable) and wool is biodegrade-able, warm in winter and actually quite supportive.
- Whether it's waterproof. Waterproof mattress protectors mean they spillages or accidents simply run off the top of the mattress, keeping it protected for longer. The main downsides? Waterproof mattress protectors tend to be warmer, and they often make a "scrunching" sound when you move around at night.
- Whether it's quilted. If you do want a bit of extra support and don't fancy buying a mattress topper on top of your mattress protector, opting for a quilted protector could be a good choice.
What to avoid when buying a mattress protector
- For hot sleepers - you'll need to weigh up whether waterproofing your luxury memory foam mattress or having a cool mattress protector for those warmer nights is a priority, as the majority of plastic covers required for a water-resistant finish will lessen the breathability of your bed.
- For kids - some flame retardant chemical coatings on mattress covers are considered toxic so it's best to check the safety information on products and/or opt for a naturally flame retardant fabric, e.g. wool.
- For cold sleepers - check whether you can use one of the best electric blankets with your mattress protector - not all of them allow this.
After more bedding content? Head this way for low platform bed frames, over here for silk bedding sets and in this direction for anti-allergy pillows.
For more from GLAMOUR UK's Commerce Writer Mayola Fernandes, follow her on Instagram @mayolafernandess.
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