The 5 Best Mattress Protectors in 2026
Protecting your mattress can help it last longer. We rounded up the best mattress protectors to do the job.
- The Helix Waterproof Mattress Protector earned our top spot. It offered excellent protection while preserving the feel of the mattress at a great value.
- The mattress protectors in this roundup cost $120–$250 for a queen size before discounts or promotions.
- A good mattress protector helps shield your mattress from spills, dirt, and everyday wear without making it less comfortable.
- The best mattress protectors come in a variety of styles, making it easier to find one that fits your budget and sleep needs.
- Choosing a quality mattress protector can help extend the life of your mattress and protect your investment.
NCOA supports everyone’s right to age well. So we take the time to research, test, and recommend products that can help you live a healthier life. We’ve spent more than 2,500 hours researching and testing mattress protectors to give you the most accurate product reviews. To find the best mattress protectors, we:
- Consulted with sleep specialists like doctors, occupational therapists, and physical therapists for guidance on choosing the best mattress topper
- Put more than 20 models through a series of 19 different tests at our in-house lab
- Mystery-shopped more than 40 brands
- Surveyed more than 2,000 older adults on their sleep quality
- Interviewed experts on the importance of good sleep for older adults
- Worked with older adult testers to evaluate mattress toppers and get their opinion
- Read thousands of verified customer reviews
We’re constantly testing new mattress protectors and sleep products to give you the most accurate and up-to-date recommendations. Read more about our sleep accessories review methodology.
When you think about bedding accessories, the best pillows or the best mattress topper for back pain may come to mind. It is easy to overlook mattress protectors, but they play an important role in keeping your mattress clean and helping it last longer. The best mattress protectors help guard against spills, sweat, dirt, and everyday wear without changing how your bed feels.
Nearly half of late-night snackers (44%) like to eat in bed, according to an industry survey.1
To find the best mattress protectors, we asked older adults to test some popular options. Our top choice was the Helix Waterproof Mattress Protector because it protected the mattress from spills and dirt while preserving the comfortable feel of the mattress underneath. We tested each mattress protector by pouring a glass of water on it to see how well it kept moisture away from the mattress. We also looked at comfort, fit, ease of care, and how well each cover stayed in place to help you find the best mattress protector for your needs. Here is what we found.
Best Overall
Helix Waterproof Mattress Protector
Has a waterproof barrier to keeps the mattress dry; offers a great value and fit
Best Cooling
Bear GlacioTex Mattress Protector
Features hypoallergenic materials and special cooling GlacioTex fabric
Best Value
Brooklyn Bedding Luxury Cooling Mattress Protector
Made with cooling fibers and hypoallergenic materials and offers and exceptional value
Best mattress protectors in 2026
- Helix Waterproof: Best Mattress Protector Overall
- Bear GlacioTex: Best Cooling Mattress Protector
- Brooklyn Bedding Luxury Cooling: Best Value Mattress Protector
- Nolah GlacioTex Waterproof: Best Waterproof Mattress Protector
- Birch Waterproof: Best Cotton Mattress Protector
Comparing the best mattress protectors
| Comparison Features | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Score (out of 10)* | 9.2 |
8.8 |
9.5 |
8.8 |
9.4 |
| Best for | Overall |
Cooling |
Value |
Waterproof |
Cotton |
| Trial period (nights) | 30 |
30 |
30 |
30 |
30 |
*Ratings reflect a brand's overall offering; the best overall pick doesn't necessarily have the highest score
Helix Waterproof: Best Mattress Protector Overall
The Helix Waterproof Mattress Protector earned our top pick for Best Mattress Protector because we found it guards your mattress against spills and dirt without changing how your bed feels. It excelled in our testing and offers solid value at its regular price.
- Helix mattress review
- Waterproof and breathable design
- Stretches to fit mattresses up to 15 inches deep
- Designed with antimicrobial material
- Material: 100% polyester terry and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU)
- Sizes: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, CA king
- Trial period: 30 nights
- Returns: Free (within 30 nights)
Pros
- Waterproof barrier keeps the mattress dry
- Soft, quiet fabric is barely noticeable under sheets
- Fair price for the quality
- Can be machine washed and dried
Cons
- Not noticeably cooling
- No third-party material certifications
- Fits deep mattresses, so it may be loose for shorter ones
Bear GlacioTex: Best Cooling Mattress Protector
We chose the Bear GlacioTex Mattress Protector as the Best Cooling Mattress Protector because it stayed cool to the touch while helping protect the mattress from spills. Its hypoallergenic materials, stretchy skirt, and secure fit make it a comfortable option for people who sleep hot.
- Bear mattress review
- Cool-to-the-touch GlacioTex fabric
- Stretchy skirt for a secure fit
- Hypoallergenic materials
- Material: 50/50 blend of polyester and polyethylene
- Sizes: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, CA king
- Trial period: 30 nights
- Returns: Free (within 30 days)
Pros
- Cool-to-the-touch GlacioTex fibers help reduce heat buildup
- Hypoallergenic materials may help reduce common allergens
- Stretchy skirt makes it easier to put on and keeps it in place
Cons
- Higher regular price than many other mattress protectors
- No organic materials or third-party certifications
- Only backed by a one-year limited warranty
Brooklyn Bedding Luxury Cooling: Best Value Mattress Protector
We chose the Brooklyn Bedding Luxury Cooling Mattress Protector as the Best Value Mattress Protector because it offers cooling features similar to higher-priced options at a lower cost. It also includes a longer warranty, making it a smart pick for people who want lasting value.
- Brooklyn Bedding mattress review
- Made with cooling fibers
- Stretchy fitted design stays securely in place
- Hypoallergenic materials help guard against dust mites and bacteria
- Material: 50/50 blend of polyester and polyethylene
- Sizes: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, CA king
- Trial period: 30 nights
- Returns: Free
Pros
- Cooling fibers help keep the sleep surface comfortable
- Water-resistant layer protects against spills and stains
- Great value with a lower price and longer warranty than similar cooling protectors
- Secure, quiet fit
Cons
- No organic materials or third-party safety certifications
- Water-resistant rather than fully waterproof
- Cooling fabric may not feel as cool throughout the entire night for every sleeper
Nolah GlacioTex Waterproof: Best Waterproof Mattress Protector
The Nolah GlacioTex Waterproof Mattress Protector stood out for its ability to repel liquid, along with its high-quality construction and secure fit.
- Nolah mattress review
- Waterproof barrier helps protect against spills and sweat
- Soft design won’t change your mattress feel
- GlacioTex™ fabric feels cool to the touch
- Material: 50/50 polyester and polyethylene blend.
- Sizes: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, CA king
- Trial period: 30 nights
- Returns: Free
Pros
- Excellent waterproof protection
- Cool, smooth, and breathable
- Doesn’t change the feel of your mattress
- Machine washable and dryable
Cons
- No organic or third-party certified materials
- May be baggy on mattresses thinner than 15 inches
- Shorter warranty than some competitors
Birch Waterproof: Best Cotton Mattress Protector
The Birch Waterproof Mattress Protector uses two layers of undyed, Fair Trade certified organic cotton and a thin waterproof layer to keep moisture away from your mattress. The soft knit, breathability, and high quality make it one of the best mattress protectors for people who prefer natural materials.
- Birch mattress review
- Two layers of organic, Fair Trade certified cotton
- Breathable design helps promote airflow
- Waterproof barrier is thin and not crinkly or loud
- Material: Organic cotton and polyurethane waterproof membrane
- Sizes: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, CA king
- Trial period: 30 nights
- Returns: Free
Pros
- Soft organic cotton is heat-wicking
- Quiet waterproof layer doesn’t feel plasticky
- Breathable design helps reduce heat buildup
Cons
- Extra-deep skirt may bunch on thinner mattresses
- Higher price than many cotton protectors
- Not the best option for very hot sleepers
What makes a good mattress protector
A good mattress protector helps keep your mattress clean from spills, sweat, dust, and everyday wear without changing how your bed feels. The best mattress protectors are soft, quiet, breathable, and well-fitting, so they stay in place all night.
A waterproof mattress protector can keep liquid spills and sweat from damaging your mattress. Some mattress protectors use cooling fibers to maintain good airflow and prevent heat buildup. Many mattress protectors are machine washable, making them easy to clean. Most of the mattress protectors we tested had at least a 30-night trial period and a one-year warranty.
In a recent survey 58% of Americans reported never cleaning their mattress.2
How to choose a mattress protector
Start by thinking about what you need most from a mattress protector. If you have children, pets, or tend to spill drinks, a waterproof mattress cover is a smart choice. If you sleep hot, look for cooling fabrics like Tencel, bamboo, or specialty cooling materials that help move heat away from your body.
Also check the size, pocket depth, and care instructions before you buy. The best mattress protector should fit your mattress snugly, be easy to wash, and protect your bed without changing its comfort. If you want extra cushioning, choose a mattress pad or one of the best mattress toppers. But if your goal is simply to keep your mattress clean, a standard protector is the better option.
Many mattress manufacturers’ warranties are voided if a mattress is stained or has obvious physical damage that could have been prevented by a mattress protector.
How much do the best mattress protectors cost?
The mattress protectors in this roundup cost $120–$250 for a queen size before discounts or promotions.
| Comparison Features | Helix Waterproof |
Bear GlacioTex |
Brooklyn Bedding Luxury Cooling |
Nolah GlacioTex Waterproof |
Birch Waterproof |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost for a queen | $120 |
$250 |
$129 |
$209 |
$199 |
| Shipping costs | Free |
Free |
Free |
Free |
Free |
| Warranty length | 1 year |
1 year |
3 years |
1 year |
1 year |
| Return fees | None |
None |
None |
None |
None |
*Most mattress brands run frequent or ongoing promotions. Sale prices are typically lower and may change often.
Frequently asked questions
What is better, a mattress protector or mattress topper?
The better option depends on your needs. For protection from spills, stains, and dust, choose a mattress protector. If you want more comfort or support, choose a mattress topper.
How long do mattress protectors last?
Most mattress protectors last about two to five years, depending on how they are made and cared for. A high-quality mattress cover that is well maintained may last even longer.
Does a mattress protector change the feel of the mattress?
A well-made mattress protector should have very little effect on how your mattress feels. Many are thin, breathable, and made from materials that guard against spills and stains without you even noticing they are there.
Do you wash a mattress protector every time you wash sheets?
You do not need to wash your mattress protector every time you wash your sheets. Washing it about once a month, or sooner after a spill or accident, is enough for most people.
Questions? Email us at reviewsteam@ncoa.org.
