Best Mattress Protectors: Waterproof, Cooling & Fit

Choose a mattress protector by coverage, fit and how much it changes the sleep surface. A fitted waterproof protector handles everyday spills; a five-sided model adds sidewall protection; a zippered encasement surrounds the whole mattress.

Protectors are thin protective layers. For extra cushioning, use our mattress topper hub or pad vs topper guide.

Mattress protector comparison: coverage, depth and care

Current Yawnder protector lineup — starting prices checked October 8, 2026

Protector	Coverage / surface	Fit check	Price & care
Essentials Waterproof Mattress ProtectorView sizes & price	Fitted waterproof top protector; microfiber surface.	Listed for mattresses up to about 16 inches. Include topper height in your measurement.	From $34. Cold gentle washing; follow the drying label.
Yawnder Fresh HEIQ Cooling Mattress ProtectorView sizes & price	Fitted waterproof protector with a HEIQ-treated cooling-focused surface.	Listed pocket depth up to 18 inches. Check elastic tension on your mattress.	From $49. Cold gentle washing; a cool-touch finish is passive.
Malouf Five Sided Mattress ProtectorView sizes & price	Five-sided protection; Tencel lyocell surface with waterproof membrane.	Covers the top and four sidewalls, with an open underside. Confirm the selected size’s depth.	From $69.99. Machine washable; use the model’s care label.
DreamFit DreamComfort Waterproof Mattress ProtectorView sizes & price	Fitted waterproof microfiber protector.	Corner bands and perimeter elastic help hold the cover in place. Check depth and articulation.	From $79. Cool gentle wash; low-heat drying as directed.
Malouf Encase HD 360 Mattress ProtectorView sizes & price	Six-sided zippered encasement; removable top panel.	Match both mattress dimensions and thickness. The currently published Yawnder SKU is Full.	$109.99 for that Full-size listing. Confirm washing instructions before removing the top.

Starting prices vary by size and may change. Published stock does not establish showroom availability. See the product page for the selected size and current terms.

Pick the coverage you need

Five-sided coverage adds waterproof sidewalls; six-sided encasement adds a bottom and zipper. Do not assume every fitted protector has waterproof sides, or that every encasement has the same zipper barrier. Confirm the model’s construction for your specific use.

Mattress protector review directory

These articles cover individual products and older review samples. Their observations can help you compare feel and construction, while the current product page establishes today’s specification.

Pocket depth, noise and adjustable-bed fit

Measure the complete stack: mattress plus topper, if the protector will cover both. A protector advertised for a deep mattress can still fit poorly if its elastic is stretched over the edge or its waterproof panel sits too high.

Check noise under your fitted sheet: turn over, sit on the edge and rub the surface. Membrane thickness, fabric and tension affect rustling; a material description alone does not establish that a protector is silent. The comparison above does not assign untested noise scores.

Articulate an adjustable base: raise the head and foot, then check for bunching or corners lifting. A secure fitted cover and a six-sided encasement can behave differently when the mattress bends.

Washing a waterproof protector

1. Follow the label for water temperature, cycle and detergent; avoid bleach or additives unless allowed.
2. Use the recommended drying temperature. Excess heat can damage waterproof membranes.
3. Dry the protector fully before putting it back on the mattress, including its seams and elastic.
4. Inspect for peeling, cracking, worn seams or a damaged zipper; these can compromise protection.
5. Keep a spare if the protector’s drying time would leave your mattress uncovered.

A protector reduces exposure to spills but does not replace the mattress maker’s warranty requirements. Check those requirements and the Yawnder purchase policy before ordering.

Mattress protector questions