How to choose the best mattress protector: keep your mattress clean and fresh

Having a mattress protector on your bed can help you sleep more soundly and comfortably. Designed to safeguard your mattress against dirt and spills, mattress protectors are there to keep your best mattress clean, fresh and stain-free for longer.

There are many benefits to having a mattress protector over your mattress. Firstly, you don't want to risk any stains or rips to the infrastructure of your mattress to help prolong its lifespan. Secondly, if you don't have the funds for a new mattress, a mattress protector can improve its comfort levels. Looking at more basic reasons, it's a good idea to have one if you're sleeping on a mattress you don't own, for example, if you're in rented accommodation or at college or university.

Here’s everything you need to know about mattress protectors, including what they are, how to choose one and the one we recommend the most.

Best Mattress Protectors

What is the best mattress protector of 2025?

The best mattress protector you can buy in 2025 is the Nectar Mattress Protector. For all-found performance, it's made from Tencel – a material extracted from natural wood cellulose and manufactured into a very soft and ultra breathable fabric. It also boasts temperature-regulating properties that we think actually works, making it a top choice if you're prone to overheating at night.

The Nectar Mattress protector is dust- and allergen-resistant, and washable up to a whopping 90C if you so need. It's also completely waterproof so if anyone's prone to spilling or other accidents, it can protect you in that way.

Overall, this mattress protector is our number one choice for very good reasons, and in fact, our only niggle is that it's not suitable for tumble drying.

Other best mattress protectors: honourable mentions

• Tempur Fit Mattress Protector: ultra thin and lightweight, but only water resistant
• Simba Performance Mattress Protector: quilted luxury feel but not waterproof
• REM-Fit Tencel Cool Mattress Protector: cooling action for overheaters

Mattress Protector FAQs

What is a mattress protector?

A mattress protector is a thin, removable layer that covers your mattress like a fitted sheet. Its primary purpose is exactly what the name suggests: to protect your mattress from various potential hazards.

Mattress protectors are typically made from materials such as cotton, polyester or bamboo-derived fabrics, often with a waterproof membrane. They're usually thin enough that you won't notice them under your sheets and don't alter the feel of your mattress. They're usually machine-washable.

What does a mattress protector do?

The job of a mattress protector can broadly be split into three categories. The primary purpose of a mattress protector is to shield against stains, spills and other damage, helping to prolong your mattress' life. Some are waterproof, and others are water-resistant, for this reason.

The second function is hygiene. Adding a removable top layer (if you mattress doesn't already have one) that can be machine-washed to get it thoroughly clean and kill off mites and other allergens, is always a good idea. Most have hypoallergenic properties built in, too.

What's the difference between a mattress protector and a mattress topper?

Some people get mattress protectors and toppers confused, and really, you should have both if you want a comfortable and hygienic set-up.

But the main difference between the two is that a mattress protector is for protecting your mattress against stains and rips, while a mattress topper is to add extra comfort to your sleep surface.

See our full explainer on mattress protectors vs mattress toppers to help you decided which one you need. For our top picks, see our guide to best mattress toppers.

How do I clean a mattress protector?

If your mattress protector is machine washable, all you need to do is toss it in the washing machine. Make sure to check the label to see what temperature it'll need to be at.

See how to clean a mattress protector for step-by-step instructions.