Do I need a mattress protector for my mattress?

Of course, we at MindTheBed think a good bed is an important pillar of a good night’s sleep. Therefore, it is important to treat your bed, and therefore your mattress, sustainably. A mattress protector can be used either under your mattress, that is, between your bed base and your mattress, or pulled over your mattress, like a fitted sheet.

In this blog, we reflect on the usefulness of a mattress pad and what materials you can choose. And we like to give tips so you know exactly which protector you need.

What is a mattress protector?

By mattress protector, we mean the protective layer you put between the mattress and fitted sheet. The purpose of this is to extend the life of your mattress. Several types are available. An example of a mattress protector is a molton. Molton is the name for the way the fabric of mattress protectors is made. This is because it is rougher and thicker than, say, a fitted sheet. It is purely intended for protecting your mattress and not for sleeping directly on. You don’t have to wash the protector every time you make the bed with fresh bedding.

Do I really need a mattress protector?

A mattress is a big investment and is crucial to your sleep comfort. Therefore, it is also important to maintain the properties of your mattress as much as possible. We always recommend that you purchase a mattress protector to make your mattress last longer.

Of course, sleeping without a protector once in a while is not a disaster. This is because the mattress cover (or mattress cover) and your fitted sheet are also made to reduce wear and tear that occurs with long-term use. And it’s not just about the physical protector because obviously your mattress will last longer by properly airing it out and flipping it occasionally.

Is the mattress used by small children or sleepers who bedwash? Then a waterproof protector is necessary. Urine actually contains corrosive compounds that can really damage your mattress and seriously shorten its lifespan. There are a lot of variations on the market that don’t make you feel like you’re lying on a plastic bag. Also, people who rent out a room or house, for example, usually use waterproof variants. An accident is easy to happen, such as spilling a drink.

Do you get hot easily and often wake up with pajamas or nightgowns damp with sweat? Then see if it is best to choose a natural material such as bamboo or lyocell? Protectors made from these fibers are lightweight and powerfully moisture-regulating, which means you often experience much less excessive sweating. Even natural hair protectors such as wool do this powerfully. Wool also acts as a good insulator at the same time, so if you are looking for warmth but still don’t want to sweat excessively then this is a good choice. Synthetic variants, often in polyester, thanks to a type of mesh, can also provide very powerful ventilation and moisture control. For example, the SmartSleeve® brand is known for this purpose.

Are you allergic? Then there are several solutions. Either go for a protector that can withstand boiling wax. Because from 60°C, the dust mites are not only flushed away, but also killed. Or you can opt for a protector that features additional protection. For example, Aegis or Bi-Ome create a surface that is highly unsuitable for mites and their allergens, making them relocate and preventing them from bothering you. Also ProBiotics (e.g. Purotex, Sensity, etc), with the help of an ingenious action, creates an environment where dust mites do not thrive. ProBiotics also makes the sleeping environment drier, an added feature!

If you sleep with a top mattress or topper, it is sufficient to attach the fitted sheet and your mattress protector only around the topper. There are models available that take the corner height into account. If a protector is equipped with strong elastic all the way around, the corner height is somewhat less important. Your protector will then simply be pulled deeper under your topper.

What is the use of a mattress protector?

A good, high-quality one puts the longevity of your mattress first, without too much of an impact on your sleep comfort. Sometimes additional features added to a protector can actually enhance the comfort of your mattress and your sleep.

3 important reasons why you need a mattress protector:

1. Protection of your mattress: It is hygienic because it protects your mattress from stains, moisture, dust mites and other unwanted substances. This can slow down the wear and tear of your mattress and thus extend the life of your mattress.
   
2. Increasing sleeping comfort: A mattress protector can increase sleeping comfort by making your mattress softer or harder. In special cases, a protector can also have a second function. Consider a waterproof version, for example, which allows children and people with incontinence problems who sometimes have an accident to sleep peacefully. If you are allergic, there are specimens that prevent the spread of dust mites.
   
3. Less frequent washing of bedding: It becomes a little easier to make your bed. You only need to wash the fitted sheet, instead of always washing the entire bedding. And your mattress cover doesn’t necessarily have to go in the wash every year, either.
   

How do I choose a mattress protector?

Now that you know your mattress will last longer if you use a mattress protector, you’re probably wondering which one is best for you? The answer is quite nuanced because there is simply too much on offer to just name the best one for you. Ask yourself a few questions and you will gain much more insight into what you should choose.

1. What is the size of my mattress? Mattress pads are sold in different sizes, so it is important to choose the right size for your mattress. You can find the size of your mattress on the label of your mattress. Often elastic bands are placed around the protector so that they can accommodate multiple sizes.

Pay attention to the corner height of your mattress. Standard heights range between 30 and 35 cm.
Pay attention to the length measurement of your mattress. Is your mattress longer than the standard size of 200 cm? Then the corner height is extra important. You don’t want your protector to “slip loose” during the night.

2. What material do you want? Available in several materials, including cotton, polyester, latex, lyocell and bamboo. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages: The typical flannel is usually made of brushed cotton, which also allows it to absorb a bit more moisture. Polyester and Lyocell can be waterproof coated somewhat more easily. Both are durable, but polyester is obviously synthetic and Lyocell is a fiber of natural origin.
   
3. What is my budget? Protectors range in price from a mere few to hundreds of dollars. It’s important to set a budget and think about the features you expect before you start shopping so you don’t overspend. Also, match your budget a bit to the value of your mattress.
   
4. What features are important to me? Some mattress protectors have extra features, such as breathable material, a waterproof layer, or an anti-allergic treatment. Think about which features are important to you and look for a mattress protector that has these features.
   

Types of mattress protectors	Function
Molton	Standard protection against moisture and dirt
Anti-allergic	Protect against dust mite formation or impact avoidance.
Waterproof	Against bedwetting or excessive sweating
Ventilating / Breathable	Focus on ventilation and aeration. (Vb polyester mesh, wool, bamboo or Lyocell)
Natural	Natural materials that are often highly moisture wicking (e.g., wools, bamboo or Lyocell)
Jute felt or latex studs	Protect underside of mattress from friction

Conclusion

A mattress protector is an extra layer between your mattress and bedding. They are specially designed to extend the life of your mattress. It is recommended to purchase one so that your mattress will last longer. Also, if you sweat easily or are allergic to dust mites, a mattress protector can be a good investment.

Remember these tips to make an informed choice:

• Choose a size that fits your mattress.
• Consider the material of the mattress protector. Some materials, such as cotton, are breathable and regulate moisture well. Other materials, such as polyester, are waterproof and protect your mattress from leaks.
• Pay attention to the finish of the mattress protector. Some mattress protectors are equipped with an elastic edge that ensures the mattress protector stays in place.

Read also: removing stains from your mattress.

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