The Best Mattress Pads and Protectors You Can Buy Right Now

Mattresses are the unsung heroes of our lives. If you’ve ever had a poor quality mattress, you know just how much of an impact a high quality one will make. So, why is it that we invest in the latter, and then do nothing to ensure it remains in tip-top shape for as long as possible? If you don’t want to work over another few hundred (or grand) too soon, a mattress protector or pad is absolutely essential. Yeah, they’re not a super flashy purchase, but they’re a necessary one if you want your investment to last long term.

They do often go under the radar, so what exactly is a mattress protector? It isn’t like the toppers you might already have on your bed that make it fluffier to sleep on (although, sometimes a protector will add some comfort). Think of pads and protectors more as a security layer around your mattress that’s built to keep away anything that might damage it, like water, stains, and even dust mites. Spills and grime are inevitable, especially if you have kids or pets in the mix. Instead of painstakingly scrubbing at a mattress, you can just throw a pad in the washer and call it a day!

Another very important reason to get a mattress protector: Liquids can break down the foams in mattresses, so stains will void your warranty. So, if for no other reason than to ensure your money back if needed, it’s a smart idea to get a mattress pad. You can thank us later for the warning.

After testing out a bunch of different mattress pads and protectors ourselves, our editors have narrowed down a list of truly terrific options that will fit into your budget and lifestyle seamlessly. Check them out below!

• Best Overall: Sijo Eucalyptus Mattress Protector
• Best Budget-Friendly: Candice Olson Luxury Cotton Mattress Pad
• Best Luxury: Sleep Number Climate360 Total Protection Mattress Pad
• Best Waterproof: Tuft & Needle Mattress Protector
• Best Heated: Serta Waterproof White Heated Mattress Pad
• Best Organic: Avocado Organic Waterproof Mattress Protector

Mattress pads are there to protect the mattress you so generously invested time and money into, so there are a few things you should keep in mind when shopping for one. The key is deciding how you want it to protect your mattress or, really, what your mattress pad can do for you — after all, you’ll be getting pretty cozy with it.

Waterproof: While many mattress covers are water resistant, you’ll want to specifically look for a waterproof mattress protector if you have younger kids or pets who sleep with you, or if you just like to enjoy a glass of wine in bed. Doing so will protect your mattress from stains and anything else you don’t want to be lying in every night — not to mention, a damp mattress can lead to mold and bacteria growth. If you want a totally waterproof mattress pad, look for options that are made without phthalates, PVC, vinyl, or other potentially harmful chemicals. We found three great options that aren’t treated with chemicals to make them waterproof.

Hypoallergenic: Mattress pads can prevent allergens like dirt, dander, and dust mites from settling into your mattress, and they can also keep you more comfortable if you have sensitive skin. There are also mattress protectors designed to keep bed bugs out — which could be enough information to force us all to look for a mattress pad of our own. For the most effective hypoallergenic mattress protectors, look at the encasement style. Ones that fully zip all the way around the mattress (rather than cinching around the top like a fitted sheet) and have a tightly woven fabric work best at keeping dust mites and their waste from passing through. Another rule of thumb, if you have bad allergies, is to wash your mattress pad (and other bedding) once a week in hot water.

Temperature regulating: Whether you sleep hot or cold, a mattress pad can help you sleep more soundly. Hot sleepers should look for breathable materials like cotton, wool, bamboo, and eucalyptus lyocell, and avoid polyester, which tends to trap heat. Also keep in mind that mattress pads will keep your mattress fresh if you tend to sweat during the night.

There are two types of mattress pads: those that fit like fitted sheets and those that fully encase the mattress. The most common type is the fitted sheet-style mattress pad, so all of the picks on our list are that style. These are easier to find and clean, as you can simply pull them off the mattress, but they do leave the bottom of your mattress exposed. If you have severe allergies or are in need of ultimate protection from bed bugs and other pests, look into zippered protectors that fully cover your mattress.

There are a few material and textile certifications we mention that are worth looking out for when shopping for bedding of any kind, including mattress pads.

• OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified: Products are free of harmful synthetics and dyes.
• Made in Green by OEKO-TEX certified: Materials used in products are traceable and have been tested for and are free from harmful substances.
• GOTS certified: Products align with the Global Organic Textile Standard, which defines the worldwide recognized requirements for organic textiles.
• Cotton LEADS program: A reliable cotton supply chain providing raw material that is responsibly produced and identified.
• Made Safe certified: Products are nontoxic and made with safe ingredients/materials.
• Fair Trade certified: Products are created in alignment with the economic standards in place for manufacturers to equitably distribute the benefits of ingredient, material, or product trade.
• Global Cotton Initiative partner: The production process uses fewer synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, increases cotton yields, reduces water usage, improves soil health, and applies decent work principles.
• Climate Neutral certified: Products created by a company that actually offsets more carbon emissions than they generate, making them carbon negative.
• ETL certified: This certification might be found on heated bedding, and indicates that the product complies with North American safety standards.
• FSC certified: Products with this certification are made with materials from responsibly managed forests that provide environmental, social and economic benefits.
• Certified Asthma & Allergy Friendly: These products have been tested and proven by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America to be better suited for those with asthma and allergies.

We tested a wide range of mattress pads for our list, judging them on the following criteria:

• Feel: How comfortable is the mattress pad? Does it have any padding? Does it move around during the night?
• Construction: How durable is the mattress pad? Is it sturdy? Will it hold up to use and washing?
• Effectiveness: Does it effectively protect the mattress?

Rarely in life is there a “total package” product that checks all the boxes, but the Sijo Eucalyptus Mattress Protector actually does. If you’re looking for comfort, utility, temperature regulation, sustainable materials, and an affordable price point all in one, look no further. Not only is it 100% waterproof, but it’s also made from eco-friendly Tencel lyocell, a fabric made from responsibly farmed bamboo and other wood sources. Don’t let the thought of sleeping on bamboo or wood scare you: These natural fibers actually create a super soft fabric that is naturally cooling, antimicrobial, and hypoallergenic.

Unlike many other waterproof mattress pads that crinkle and have a plastic-y feel, Sijo’s Tencel fabric makes zero noise as you move around in bed. It also has a continuous elastic hem that wraps securely around the mattress, ensuring that it stays snugly in place and won’t bunch or shift. Commerce editor Britt was impressed by how undetectable the Sijo mattress protector was when she tried it: “In the past, I’ve shied away from mattress protectors, thinking they’d be as noisy as they were when I was a kid. However, I really love this one from Sijo! It’s waterproof yet quiet, so I often forget it’s on my mattress. It doesn’t trap heat or get bunched up under my sheets, so I continue to sleep comfortably, and I love the assurance that my mattress is protected from spills, sweat, or any other mishaps that could affect its quality. It’s really the best!”

Read our full review of the Sijo Eucalyptus Mattress Protector.

Specifications:

• Tencel lyocell cover with recycled polyester lining and skirt
• Available in 6 sizes
• Fits mattresses up to 18″
• Waterproof
• Machine wash cold on gentle cycle; tumble dry low
• OEKO-TEX, FSC, and Asthma & Allergy Friendly certifications
• 7-day trial

Who It’s Best For: Those who want a waterproof mattress protector without having to feel or hear a waterproof mattress protector; those who sleep warm and want a cooling layer.

Good to Know: There are no chemical treatments or coatings used, and yet, both the mattress protector top and sides are 100% waterproof with a protective barrier.

If you want to save and score a mattress pad that’s both protective and comfortable, the Candice Olson Luxury Cotton Mattress Pad is for you. Most mattress pads are designed purely with function in mind, and while there are certainly benefits to a no-frills barrier if you favor a firmer feel, why not add some plushness if you like to sink into your bed? This pillow top option has a fluffy polyester fill, but it’s still hypoallergenic. The box stitch keeps it all evenly distributed. Even though it’s thicker than some others on the market, it’s still breathable thanks to the cotton covering.

When commerce assistant editor Morgan tested this mattress pad at her parents’ house, where she spent many hours lounging in bed, she says that she was “comfortably enveloped” the entire time. “So, if you prefer a firmer mattress and want to add a subtle amount of cushion, or have a softer mattress and simply want a protective layer, you really can’t go wrong either way with this one,” she explains in her review. “For weeks, it never shifted — my mom can vouch for how secure the sides are, too. She said that when she put it on my bed, it tucked in easily.”

Read our full review of the Candice Olson Luxury Cotton Mattress Pad.

Specifications:

• Cotton shell with 100% polyester fill, backing, and skirt
• 300-thread count
• Available in 5 sizes
• Fits mattresses up to 15″
• Machine washable

Who It’s Best For: Those who prefer their bedding to be extra cushioned and protected at the same time.

Good to Know: The cotton shell also offers a thread count of 300. (Between 200 and 600 is ideal for bedding.)

A top-notch mattress deserves a mattress protector that’s on the same level. Sleep Number’s Climate360 is worth the splurge, according to our tester and hundreds of reviews. It’s designed to optimize airflow, keeping you cool throughout the night. Still, even though air will get through, stains won’t. It’ll shield your mattress from wear with its water-resistant material, making for a painless cleanup whenever a spill happens.

Despite its higher price point, it doesn’t require any extra steps for care beyond machine washing it on a cold setting. Karen, our tester, moved into a new apartment and needed a mattress protector that would keep her from getting too hot. She says the Climate 360 does the job and then some: “I love the look and feel, and it fits great on my mattress even though it’s not the same brand as the protector!”

Specifications:

• 100% polyester top with polyester-spandex skirt
• Available in 7 sizes
• Water-resistant
• Machine wash cold on gentle cycle; tumble dry low
• OEKO-TEX certified
• 10-year limited warranty 

Who It’s Best For: Hot sleepers; those who want a high-quality mattress pad that will last just as long as their mattress.

Good to Know: Even though it’s designed exclusively to pair with Sleep Number’s Climate360 bed, it can accommodate mattresses from any brand. It’s also minimally cushioned, so it won’t impact the feel of your mattress.

If you have kids or pets on your hands, the feature you’re probably most interested in is how well a mattress pad repels water and other spills. Tuft & Needle’s version has earned high marks from AT’s social media manager, Brian. He was in the market for a mattress protector that would serve as a barrier from his kids’ diaper leaks, and this one has passed with flying colors. “Now that we have the mattress protector, we don’t have to worry about the mattress getting damaged or taking the bed apart to clean the spot,” Brian says. The protector is machine washable for easy maintenance.

It also goes on like a fitted sheet, smooth, secure, and undetectable underneath the rest of your bedding. Plus, the cover feels as soft as the brand’s mattresses. “We were also worried that a mattress protector might be uncomfortable but we were pleasantly surprised that this protector was very comfortable with no noticeable differences in our sleep,” he notes.

Specifications:

• 100% polyester with TPU coating
• Available in 6 sizes
• Fits mattresses up to 14″
• Waterproof
• Machine wash cold; tumble dry low or no heat (line dry recommended)
• OEKO-TEX certified
• 10-year limited warranty
• 100-night sleep trial

Who It’s Best For: Those who want extra protection for their mattress; those who want a layer that won’t impact the feel of their bed.

Good to Know: This protector has a five-side encasement that keeps your mattress safe.

The colder months are just around the corner, so it’s time to get your bed in order for the season. Instead of having to store a heated blanket during the off-season, consider this mattress pad as an alternative. Its heating capabilities will make a world of difference in your drafty bedroom. You can leave it switched off during the summer months, but when you need it, you can opt for one of the 10 specialized heat settings. It has a one to 12 hour auto shutoff function, as well as a safeguard to prevent overheating.

“I loved that it had the dual-zone temperature features,” says AT contributor Tara. “My husband and I tested multiple variations of the temperature/intensity levels, and the temperature difference between both sides was apparent. I can see this product being a huge hit for cooler months — and I can’t wait to continue to use it.”

Specifications:

• Poly-cotton top with polyester fill and microfiber bottom
• Available in 5 sizes
• Fits mattresses up to 18″
• Features specialized heat setting, overheat protection, shutoff timer
• Includes power cord and controllers (1 for Twin XL, and 2 for Queen, King, and California King sizes)
• Waterproof
• Machine washable
• ETL certified
• 5-year limited warranty

Who It’s Best For: Those who sleep cold; those who share a bed; those looking for a mattress protector that will be good for cooler months.

Good to Know: Queen and King models come with dual heating and two remotes, which allows for customizable experiences for each side of the bed.

Eco-conscious shoppers will appreciate Avocado’s protector, which will protect your mattress from wear and tear while being certified organic. Its construction is thoughtful and durable, made of two layers of hypoallergenic cotton and a waterproof film made of cornstarch. It’s silent and unnoticeable once you place it underneath your bedding, though you’ll definitely notice its impact when you see how well it repels spills. You can toss it into the washing machine any time an accident happens.

Having also tested this option personally, I can tell that the material won’t wear down over time. It’s thick and a little stiff, but not so much that it’s difficult to put my other bedding on top of it. To test its waterproof claims, I poured a bit of water on top, and it rolled right off! It was still completely dry, underneath and on top. 

Specifications:

• Organic cotton with waterproof polyurethane layer
• Available in 6 sizes, plus deep pocket options
• Standard fits mattresses up to 16″
• Deep pocket fits mattresses up to 22″
• Waterproof 
• Spot clean or machine wash and tumble dry on low 
• GOTS, GREENGUARD Gold, and Made Safe certified
• 1-year limited warranty

Who It’s Best For: Those who want a long-lasting, eco-friendly, and smartly-made protector that’ll keep your mattress in good-as-new condition.

Good to Know: It may take up to three washes for the mattress protector to achieve its proper size.

Additional reporting by Summer Cartwright.