Why Would Anyone Need A Mattress Protector?

If asked, most people would dismiss the idea of a mattress protector. And why not? After all, unless there are children and pets in the house, there is little reason to have one.

Is there?

It might be the most important accessory to have in your bedroom. After all, a mattress is not only hard to clean, but also expensive to replace. So keep reading to learn more about the perks of having a mattress protector.

What is a mattress protector?

A mattress protector sits directly on top of your mattress or mattress topper, but below the bedsheets.

It makes no difference, what kind of mattress you have. Whether you chose a memory foam mattress, a latex mattress, innerspring mattress, or a hybrid mattress, or a different type of mattress not listed here. A mattress protector works the same everywhere.

There are several functions that a mattress protector fulfills:

1. It keeps the mattress clean and hygienic

A mattress, if left unprotected, can easily get dirty and stain, thereby decreasing the lifespan of it. Even though a regular bedsheet is already a barrier between you and your mattress, it is probably not enough.

During the night, with the tossing and turning, sweating, dead skin, and possibly makeup, we tend to make our bed dirty. Add accidents made by children, pets, or a drink spilled in a hurry. A waterproof mattress protector will prevent all of it, and more, from getting onto and into your mattress.

2. The mattress stays “new” longer

This one sort of goes hand in hand with the previous point. By protecting your mattress from liquids and moisture your mattress, especially if it is a memory foam one, will last longer, you won’t experience issues with mold, and you won’t have to replace it as soon.

3. It protects your health

Dust mites produce waste products that can cause allergic reactions, especially with children - sneezing, a runny nose, wheezing. They also love eating dead skin cells, and an unprotected mattress is full of them.

Make sure to wash it once a week for the best results. (Remember to wait for it to dry fully before putting it back on your bed as this could cause mold)

But how to wash a mattress protector? It can be as simple as putting it in the washing machine - but make sure you do it according to the manufacturer’s instructions to not void your warranty or damage the material.

What types of mattress protectors are there?

There are (as with anything on the market these days) many different types of mattress protectors. And with anything they follow the simple rule – the more functions it has, the more expensive it will tend to be.

There are breathable ones, waterproof ones, cooling ones, machine washable ones – and some that are a combination of several. They also come in different sizes, so you need to know the size of your mattress to make sure your protector is a good fit. You will generally encounter mattress protectors to be encased (zipped), fitted, or with an elastic strap.

An encasement covers all six sides of your mattress, and will generally come with a zipper. This would be the best solution if you have a serious problem with dust mites.

A fitted protector fits your mattress the same way a fitted sheet would. A protector with elastic straps would lie on top of your mattress, while the straps wrap around the four corners, keeping your mattress protector in place.

They also come in different materials, so you will encounter cotton, polyester, down, vinyl, polyurethane (plastic).

What is the difference between a mattress protector and a mattress pad or topper?

A mattress pad sits on top of your mattress, similar to a mattress protector. However, you would generally purchase it to add comfort to your mattress. The same goes for a mattress topper, though this one is much thicker. A pad or topper would add short-term comfort to an old or uncomfortable mattress. While they would both protect your mattress, you should still consider investing in a mattress protector, as that would be able to protect all (and even though a mattress topper is cheaper than a mattress, it is still costly). If you have both a mattress protector and a topper, but the topper on your mattress first, and then cover both with the protector. Then put your bed sheets over everything, and voila, everything is protected.

What is the best mattress protector?

The best mattress protector is the one you have. Even if it is the cheapest one you could find. If you have financial stability, you can start shopping for different mattress protectors with the functions you need, but even if you are on a budget, it would still be advisable to get one.

After all, you don’t want to have to buy a new mattress for something that could have avoided. Especially if you have a memory foam mattress, this point becomes much more important. Any moisture, even if it comes from night sweats, can shorten the durability of your mattress in the long term. Why risk it?

So, is a mattress protector necessary? Maybe not. But there are more than enough reasons to consider investing in one for your bedroom! (Additional) Take this easy Matress Quiz to help you find out the ideal matress.

If you decide not to get one, you might want to check out this article on 4 Easy Steps To Clean A Memory Foam Mattress to know what to do, if an accident should ever occur.

Are you ready to finally get a good night’s sleep? Come with Sweetnight!