Recent events have made people exceedingly conscious of germs, bacteria, allergens, and
other microscopic invaders that can cause a variety of problems. While many have been
recently re-indoctrinated to antibacterial wipes and hand-washing for the length of the “Happy
Birthday to You” song, that’s only a start to tackling unseen threats. The truth is, bacteria live
on most surfaces of your home, car, and even your desk at work. Things like moisture from the
air, oils from your skin, food particles, and other bacterial fuel combined with a warm
environment make the perfect foundation for a microscopic ecosystem. Your bed is no
exception. Makeup, skin cells, pet dander, and bodily fluids can quickly make the surface of your
mattress a cozy spot for micro colonies despite the fitted sheet on top.
What does a mattress protector do?
Like it or not, people are dirty. It has nothing to do with hygiene habits – even with regular
bathing and grooming, it’s natural for dirt, hair, and skin to slough off your body 24/7 and
accumulate anywhere you spend time. Mattresses need to be protected from that debris, as well
as other organisms that can live on the surface. According to experts, mattress protectors:
– Help keep mattresses fresh and clean – since mattress protectors serve as a shield
between unwanted critters and your bed, they can help keep the mattress clean and
make the upkeep process easier. Simply remove the protector and send it for a spin in
your washing machine, saving you from coming into contact with bacteria and sparing
the time-consuming trouble of directly cleaning your mattress.
– Preserve the quality and condition of the mattress – if you’re going to spend hundreds,
maybe even thousands, of dollars on a mattress, it’s a good idea to take every
precaution you can to protect the integrity of the material and structure. A mattress
protector will shield the surface from moisture like spills and sweat that can wear down
materials such as foam, so you can get the full life and value out of your sleep purchase.
– Prevent pesky allergens from interrupting your slumber – dust mites are a common
allergen that can make sleeping comfortably feel impossible. Sneezing, wheezing, and a
runny nose could keep you up all night and ultimately impact your sinus health. A
mattress protector makes it easy to ensure that long-term build-up of dust and other
allergens don’t get in the way of satisfying sleep.
– Help keep your warranty active – warranties often come with fine print that details factors
that can make your policy null and void. Many manufacturers include stains as one of
those stipulations – even if the stain has nothing to do with the manufacturer’s defect in
question. This means even if you have a valid warranty claim for an issue like premature
sagging, the manufacturer can deny your claim based on something like a wine or pet
stain. A mattress protector can save your bed from stains, so your warranty stays in
effect should you need a replacement or return your purchase.
What are mattress protectors made from and how do I know
which one to choose?
Like mattresses, mattress protectors can be made from a variety of materials that serve different
purposes. A few of the best types of mattress protectors include:
– Cotton – just like a good t-shirt, a cotton mattress protector is breathable, lightweight,
and easy to care for. Machine washing at home will keep it clean and fresh without
impacting the integrity of the stitching, so you can use it for years to come. Some models
also include latex or wool for a cooling effect, helping you sleep comfortably and warding
away any germs that thrive in a warm environment.
– Polyester – this synthetic option is more cost-effective than other materials. Similar to
cotton, it’s machine washable, breathable, and hypoallergenic; however, polyester
doesn’t wick moisture. Though it does dry quickly, it can be easier for bacteria to grow
and linger than on protectors that repel moisture.
– Featherbed – feathers are an ultra-lightweight and plush option if you’re looking for a
little added comfort. While they can be airy, featherbed mattress protectors are not as
easy to clean as other models. Machine washing will dampen the interior and cause it to
flatten and compress, unlike cotton or polyester. Keeping a featherbed mattress
protector clean calls for open air and sunshine, which can be inconvenient for those who
live in cooler areas or in apartments where access to outdoor hanging space is limited.
– Plush Velour – Velour feels similar to velvet however, it is more flexible than other
mattress protectors. The stretching capabilities protect it from early wear and tear, so
you can get maximum use out of your purchase. It is also moisture-wicking, protecting
your bed from any spills and sweat. The soft and luxurious feel of velour is appealing to
sleepers looking for added plushness.
– Bamboo – this material is ideal for anti-bacterial protection and hypoallergenic qualities.
Bamboo repels odor-causing bacteria and moisture, so your mattress stays clean, soft,
and breathable. This material also has the unique feature of being noiseless, so you can
move about comfortably without a crinkling, papery sound disturbing you or your partner.
– Cooling – regulating your body temperature while sleeping is a major key to adequate,
satisfying rest. While memory foam mattresses and wool mattress toppers can
significantly repel unwanted warmth, a cooling mattress protector can help double down
your temperature control efforts. Some manufacturers specially engineer fiber
construction patterns and weaving techniques that help achieve the maximum cooling
feeling. Some even include chemical additives inside the mattress protector that aid in
heat reduction.
– Tencel Lyocell – This eco-friendly option is similar to rayon but is made from sustainable
materials. Tencel Lyocell doesn’t wrinkle easily, so you can sleep without any lumps and
bumps under your sheets that can make your bed feel uncomfortable. This material is
also moisture repelling and cooling, so you can get the benefits of cotton and cooling
mattress protectors with the added perk of being eco-friendly.
The best option for you will depend on your needs and budget. Aside from bacterial and
allergen protection, try making a list of what is important for your comfort and lifestyle. Maybe
you need help keeping cool at night, or maybe easy cleaning is your priority. Create a list of
decision-making factors and use online and in-person resources to pick the mattress protector
that’s best for you.
How much should I spend on a mattress protector?
The price of a mattress protector depends on the quality, size, and retail outlet but, on average,
you can expect to spend anywhere from $50 to $100. Models with added features like cooling
materials and padding will likely cost more and are great options if you’re looking to amp up
your sleep experience however, the primary function of a mattress protector is to defend your
body from bacteria and allergens. Any moisture-wicking, breathable model can do the trick!
BoxDop® can help you find the best mattress protector for your needs and budget, so you can
start protecting your health and preserving the quality of your bed tonight.