Imagine you just spent a significant amount of money on a new mattress. It’s a specialty memory foam mattress that conforms to the shape of your body. You’re sleeping better than you have in years. You know you should probably get a mattress protector, but in the excitement, you decided it could wait a few more days.
It’s late and you crawl into bed to read a book. You fall asleep, and your Labrador Retriever hops up and decides he’ll sleep with you for the night.
You wake up and, to your horror, realize that your canine friend has peed the bed.
You strip the sheets and find that the urine has soaked through to your mattress. There’s a big, yellow stain.
You grab the fabric cleaner and start to scrub, hoping to save your investment.
Too late. Warranty void.
You can prevent disasters such as this one with a mattress protector.
Incontinence, excessive sweating, and other activities can stain and wear down your mattress. This causes it to deteriorate faster than it otherwise would.
Protect your mattress to protect your warranty. Keep reading for a guide to selecting the right mattress protector for you.
What Voids a Mattress Warranty
If you treat it with care, your mattress could easily last 10 years or more.
Before we get into how to protect your new mattress, let’s talk about your mattresses warranty. The most common things that void a mattress warranty are stains, insufficient support, and removing the law tag from the mattress.
Stains
Stains are the most common cause of a void mattress warranty.
Over time, liquids will wear down the materials of your mattress, causing it to deteriorate and sag.
Not to mention, stained mattresses are just unsightly and unsanitary. No company wants to put a dirty mattress back into their inventory, so they can’t sell it to another customer.
Insufficient Support
You should always buy a new box spring with your mattress to ensure you’re providing the mattress with proper support.
Using an old box spring is a sure way to void your warranty. If using a frame, make sure that it has a center support bar. The frame will need at least one leg going from the center bar from the ground.
Removing the Law Tag
Many household items contain a tag that says, “do not remove under penalty of the law.” In this case, they’re not referring to the police, but to the mattress manufacturer and retailer.
Of course, you can cut this tag off whenever you want, but be aware that this will immediately void your warranty.
Without the law tag, you have no proof that the mattress is one that you ordered.
Why You Need a Mattress Protector
Why are you shopping for a mattress protector?
Before you make a decision, you need to understand your unique circumstances and why you need one. This will guide you in selecting the right protector for your mattress.
Wear and Tear
It’s inevitable that your mattress will be subject to everyday wear and tear. Over time, the materials in your mattress can break down. This can cause issues like a decrease in support and strange odors.
Liquids and Spills
Spills can saturate through your bed sheet and penetrate your mattress. If you have small children or pets, you should definitely invest in a waterproof cover to protect your mattress.
Accidents happen, and it’s better to be proactive than to try to clean up an expensive mistake.
Allergens
Dust mites and pet dander can collect inside of your mattress, which is a nightmare for adults and children with allergies. A protector can prevent these things from becoming trapped in the fibers of your mattress.
Bed Bugs
What’s even more disgusting that stains, odors, and mites? Bed bugs.
And they’re everywhere. A whopping 97% of pest professionals reportedly treated a bed bug infestation in 2018.
Some covers are coated with an insect repellent to stop an infestation from ever beginning. These encasements envelop the mattress and bed frame so that the bugs can be easily spotted and dealt with appropriately.
Comfort
Many mattress protectors are also padded, adding an additional degree of comfort to your mattress. There are also features that increase airflow. This keeps your best cool at night, helping you stay comfortable as you sleep.
Types of Mattress Protectors
There are two main types of mattress protectors to consider. Covers come in both five-sided and six-sided styles.
Five-sided
Five-sided mattress protectors go on like a fitted sheet. Usually, these protectors are made up of a polyester edging with a breathable, cotton terry surface area.
This type of cover is fairly easy to get on and off of your mattress, which makes it easy to wash.
While you can select a waterproof five-sided protector, be aware that many options have waterproofing that will only protect the top surface of the cover.
Six-sided
A six-sided, or encasement, cover completely encompasses your mattress. This includes the bottom of your mattress.
Most six-sided protectors are zipped up to create a complete seal. These are the best type of protectors for those who are worried about allergens or pests.
Regardless of the type you choose, be sure that there is a close fit. If there is too much extra material you will feel and hear the protector shifting, which might disrupt your sleep.
Fabric Options
In addition to the type, you will have to consider the fabric your mattress protector is made of. There are several fabrics used to make covers and each has its advantages and disadvantages.
Here are some of the most common fabric options.
Cotton
A popular choice for manufacturers, cotton is an organic material that is naturally hypoallergenic. It is gentle on the skin and breathable, which allows you to stay cool at night.
Plush Velour
Plus velour is stretchy like a knit fabric but has the appearance and feel of velvet. It is typically made of cotton but other materials can also be used. Some people prefer the luxurious feel of plush velour to regular cotton.
Polyester
Polyester is a durable, less expensive fabric. Often blended with other materials, polyester is a warmer fabric, so you may not find it as comfortable to sleep on.
While it is not waterproof, polyester is a fast-drying option.
Tencel Lyocell
Tencel protectors are ideal for those with skin sensitivity, as the fabric is made of organic, sustainable resources.
Known for its botanic origin, Tencel is not as abrasive as cotton or wool fabric. It is the fabric of choice for many well-known and ethical brands.
Tencel lyocell protectors are naturally hypoallergenic, wick moisture, and prevent the growth of odor-causing bacteria.
Bamboo
Bamboo is another luxurious option for a bed protector cover. It is another hypoallergenic option that is good for sleepers with sensitive skin. Bamboo is known for being naturally comforting.
Vinyl or Plastic
Vinyl is a thicker fabric that is effective at waterproofing your mattress but isn’t very breathable. It also retains heat and can be loud to sleep on, so you may not be as comfortable at night.
Polyurethane
Polyurethane keeps you cool through the night while waterproofing your mattress. It is a thin, durable membrane that is comfortable and quiet to sleep on compared to vinyl.
Polyurethane fabric consists of microscopic pores that make it extremely breathable.
Making the Right Choice
As you can see, several factors will guide your choice when selecting the best mattress protector for you and your family.
Obviously, you will want to determine the size of your bed before you go shopping. This might seem like a no-brainer, but it is imperative that you select a mattress protector that fits your bed perfectly.
There is no single best mattress cover option. You will definitely want to consider features such as waterproofing, breathability, and insect repellent qualities. Assess your individual living situation, as everyone’s needs and likes differ.
If it is important to you, you may also want to consider the maintenance of your cover and selecting one that is fully machine washable. If you have a busy home life, it will be nice to strip your bed and throw the cover in the wash as opposed to dropping it off at the dry cleaner.
Finally, you can also find mattress protectors with impressive warranties. Many options are backed by a manufacturer’s warranty that will last at least 10 years and will cover any defects. With the right warranty, your mattress cover will last for years and your mattress will be protected for even longer!
Take Care of Your Mattress
Extend the life of your mattress by purchasing a mattress protector.
We offer several soft, absorbent protectors that are breathable and deliver superior comfort.
Visit one of our stores to shop our selection of mattress and pillow protectors and ensure that your money is well invested.
Learn more about how a better mattress and mattress topper can improve your sleep and health. Download our Mattress Buying Guide now!
