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What does a mattress protector do?

When it comes to mattresses, the choices are overwhelming, as there are so many types. But, then, the price is no joke either.

Like any big investment, you want to do whatever you could to keep your mattress in good condition.

When it comes to keeping your mattress clean and comfortable, what you need to know is this: you need a mattress protector, but mattress pads are (mostly) optional.

What’s the purpose of a mattress protector?

Waterproofing

Human bodies are not exactly clean. We all perspire at night. We all produce oil from our skins. Some of us wear makeup. We all also shed dead skin cells. There are other activities that can produce a “wet spot” on the bed. All of this can soak through your sheets and into the mattress. Once a little gets into your mattress, it’s almost impossible to get it out of your mattress. A mattress protector prevents any of that from getting into the mattress and can be taken off and washed.

Keeps the mattress feeling in “like new” condition for longer.

Perspiration (or any moisture, like spilling a drink) will wear down the foams in the mattress, shortening the comfort life. It’s a similar effect to a kitchen sponge after too many uses. Even if only a little moisture gets through, after years of every night use that adds up. You will need to replace your mattress more quickly without the protector.

Helps prevent dust mite allergies from acting up

Protectors provide a barrier that prevents dust mites and other allergens (molds, dead skin cells, etc.) from collecting in your mattress. This will increase the longevity of the mattress and make it a healthier place to sleep.

Protectors also provide a barrier against the dreaded Bed Bug. Bed Bugs are tiny insects that feed on human blood (and other warm-blooded animals). Needless to say, you don’t want them setting up shop anywhere near you – let alone your mattress.

Helps protect the warranty

Many mattress warranties will be voided if you stain your mattress.  Even if the stain has nothing to do with the warranty issue, it still voids the warranty. Encasing your mattress in a waterproof protector will help keep it free from water damage and potential stains.

Can you Wash the Mattress Protector?

The short answer is yes: since a protector generally has a fabric surface and plastic backing, it can very much be cleaned in a standard washer / dryer combo. However, the plastic is susceptible to deforming / breaking apart from the top fabric if you set the temperature too high, or use a harsh detergent or bleach.

You might get tempted to wash the cover on a high heat setting because it would get rid of the odor and absorbed fluid more effectively, but in reality, all it would do is weaken the waterproofing so that the next time you use it, the fluid goes all the way into your mattress.

Steps to wash mattress protector:

Launder your mattress cover in the washing machine in cold or warm water, on a gentle or delicate setting. Use a bleach-free laundry detergent -- bleach can damage the waterproof backing of some covers. After washing, tumble-dry the cover on a low-heat setting. It's safe to dry the cover with other items, such as sheets or clothing.

Don't use high heat, as it may damage the vinyl. Do not iron the cover or have it dry cleaned. If your waterproof mattress cover is new, wash it before using it for the first time. Laundering helps remove packaging odors and softens the cover.