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Whether you’re worried about bed bugs or just want to keep your mattress protected, a waterproof mattress pad is essential. These mattress pads can protect your mattress from spills and accidents – especially if you sleep with your kids and pets. They can also help keep it clean and dry, eliminating the risk of mold and mildew growth.
A waterproof mattress pad provides an extra layer of protection against dirt, dust, and other contaminants that can wear down the life of your mattress. With all these benefits, it’s no wonder that a waterproof mattress pad is a great investment. To help you pick the right one, we’ve listed the top-rated waterproof mattress pads of 2023.
Buying Guide for the Best Waterproof Mattress Pads
If you’re used to waking up feeling damp and sweaty every morning, you need a highly absorbent and breathable waterproof mattress pad. But not all these pads are created equal. While some of them are flimsy and offer little protection, others can be expensive and make your bed extremely hot. To help you pick the perfect one for your bedding, we’ve put together this comprehensive buying guide.
Materials To Avoid When Purchasing Waterproof Mattress Pads
Polyvinyl chloride or PVC
Vinyl can be extremely dangerous for you as it leaches carcinogens (cancer-causing substances). Also, many manufacturers use different plasticizers like phthalates to soften the hard PVC to mold it into the desired shape. These phthalates are toxic, especially for your kids who are still in their growing years.
When you choose a waterproof mattress pad made using PVC, phthalates contribute up to 30 to 40% of the weight of the vinyl surface and can cause asthma, cancer, early onset puberty, and liver and kidney damage. What’s even more alarming is that these toxic phthalates are weakly bonded to the vinyl and easily off-gas or leach into the surrounding air.
Polyethylene vinyl acetate or PEVA
While searching for waterproof mattress pads, you may come across different options made using PEVA, which is touted as less-toxic than PVC. But you should keep in mind that these might still contain toxins and are better avoided.
Polyurethane or PU
While polyurethane is relatively safe on its own, you should check its formulation to ensure that no plasticizers or toxins have been used as solvents. PU foam is considered highly toxic because of the additives used to transform it into foam, so you should avoid using waterproof mattress pads made using PU foam. But bear in mind that PU plastic isn’t always harmful and you need to dig a bit deeper to know if it contains any off-gassing chemicals.
Considerations for Purchasing Waterproof Mattress Pads
Breathability
Breathability refers to the ability of the pad to circulate the air to keep you cool and dry during summer. While waterproof mattress pads can limit airflow and trap your body heat on the sleep surface, many manufacturers ensure protection against spills and fluids without cutting off breathability.
Noise potential
Because most waterproof mattress pads have a coating or film to keep water and fluids from seeping into the mattress, they may make a crinkling or rustling sound when you change your position, which might be a problem if you wake up easily. Luckily, many mattress pads are virtually silent and have been designed to conceal motion sounds.
Warranty and returns
Different manufacturers have their own return policies and warranties to back up their claims. Most warranties protect only against defects in craftsmanship and manufacturing. Some brands also offer return policies to allow buyers to return unused mattress pads in their original packaging, but due to the nature of waterproof mattress protectors, they’re never returnable once you’ve used them.
Allergen protection
Because the surface of your mattress is covered with a protective layer, certain waterproof mattress pads offer protection against dust mites and allergens. Some encasement pads also offer protection against bed bugs as they trap these nasty insects, preventing them from sneaking into your mattress and causing them to die of starvation.
Compare Our Favorite Waterproof Mattress Pads
Inspire Waterproof Mattress Pad
– Best Overall
Stay dry while you sleep with the Inspire Waterproof Mattress Pad. Made with a blend of rayon and polyester fabric, this waterproof mattress pad features three layers: a Dry-Touch top layer that wicks away moisture, a soaker core that absorbs and traps fluid, and a waterproof barrier that prevents liquids and spills from seeping into the bedding.
With an extra large size, you can rest easy knowing that this mattress pad will fit most mattresses including memory foam, spring, and waterbeds. To care for this waterproof mattress pad, simply machine wash it in cold water on a gentle cycle and tumble dry it on low heat. Because of its soft and comfortable surface and excellent moisture-wicking properties, this mattress pad stands at the top of our list.
Pros
- Three protective layers
- Dark color to prevent staining
- Extra large size for better coverage
- Machine-washable and reusable
Cons
- Rough seams
Priva Waterproof Mattress Pad
– Most Comfortable
Featuring four protective layers, the Priva Waterproof Mattress Pad prevents water, sweat, and other liquids from penetrating the surface of the fabric. It helps protect you from unwanted stains and odors that might otherwise linger on your sheets or mattress for days. With its multi-layer design, this waterproof mattress pad features a quilted cotton and polyester top surface with a padded polyester fiberfill layer that adds to its breathability and comfort, while the vinyl backing prevents it from moving around or slipping.
In addition to being water-resistant and stain-resistant, this mattress pad is also free of harmful phthalates, metals, and other chemicals so you know you’re getting a product that’s safe for your family. Even better, it is machine washable, so you can use one up to 300 times without any issues.
Pros
- Features four protective layers
- Quilted surface for extra comfort
- Available in a range of sizes
Cons
- May require frequent washing
Epica Waterproof Mattress Pad
– Most Durable
Made with an optimal blend of polyester and cotton, the Epica Waterproof Mattress Pad is extremely absorbent, so you’ll never have to worry about your bedding getting wet again. Unlike other mattress pads, this one features a quilted layer, which means it’s soft to the touch but also helps prevent motion transfer across the surface of your mattress.
Even better, it has a non-slip backing to ensure that it stays put and doesn’t slip off during use. The extra length ensures better coverage, while also allowing for more than one person to use it at a time without any bunching up or shifting around. This waterproof mattress pad also draws away moisture so that your mattress doesn’t get damp from sweat or other bodily fluids during sleep time For ultimate convenience, this waterproof mattress pad is machine washable, so cleaning will be a piece of cake.
Pros
- Non-slip backing
- Quilted layer provides extra comfort
- Extended length for better coverage
- Easy to clean and maintain
Cons
- A bit flimsy
Kanech Waterproof Mattress Pad
– Most Versatile
Are you tired of waking up in a puddle of sweat every morning? Look no further than the Kanech Waterproof Mattress Pad. With this product, you can sleep soundly knowing that, no matter what happens during the night, your mattress will be protected. Crafted from high-density rayon and polyester fiber, this waterproof mattress pad features a wadding layer and a polyurethane waterproof layer, ensuring that water and liquid don’t seep through and reach your mattress. Even if something does get through, its super-absorbent material ensures that it won’t pool on top of your mattress and damage it.
Additionally, this waterproof mattress pad is hypoallergenic, so it won’t cause any allergic reactions or irritations. And, with its knitted backing, you don’t have to worry about it bunching up or slipping down the bed. Best of all, it’s easy to clean and maintain, so you can use it over and over again.
Pros
- Great for people with skin sensitivities
- Eco-friendly and super absorbent
- Comfortable microfiber surface
Cons
- Size may be an issue for some
RSM Waterproof Mattress Pad
– Most Absorbent
Looking for a mattress pad that’ll keep your bed dry and fresh? Get your hands on the RSM Waterproof Mattress Pad. This waterproof mattress pad is made from polyester, so it’s soft and breathable. And don’t worry about getting sick from germs or itchy surfaces – the top layer is made from a deluxe blended fabric and premium brushed polyester quilted top that will keep germs at bay while providing superb comfort.
But, what really makes this mattress pad stand out is its absorbent inner layer and waterproof barriers that do the heavy lifting when it comes to protecting your mattress from stains and spills. Measuring 54 inches in length, this waterproof mattress pad comes with four handles so you can easily lift it when changing your sheets.
Pros
- Ultra soft and highly absorbent
- Extra long for enhanced coverage
- Machine washable for easy cleanup
- Available in a range of sizes
Cons
- Material is slightly thin
People Also Asked
Q: How often should I wash my waterproof mattress pad?
A: You should read the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions on the package to ensure that you don’t end up ruining your waterproof mattress pad. You can toss yours in the washing machine for an hour or so at high temperatures along with the rest of your bedding to get it as good as new. It’s usually recommended to wash the mattress pad at least once every two months, but more frequent washing is advised for mattress pads that regularly host pets or are exposed to high levels of liquid.
Q: Why do I need a waterproof mattress pad?
A: Whether you use a waterproof mattress pad or not is a personal decision, but you will benefit from a protector even if no one in your family wets the bed. The warranty for your mattress will automatically be voided if it has any signs of water damage or is stained, so a waterproof mattress pad can prevent this situation. These mattress pads can even protect your mattress against allergens, mold, and dust mites. So, you can maintain a hygienic sleeping surface with the right waterproof mattress pad while extending the lifespan of your mattress.
Q: How should I wash my waterproof mattress pad?
A: Whether you’re a sweaty exerciser, dealing with the baby mess, or are a make-up-obsessed beauty queen, you can easily wash your waterproof mattress pad to remove yellow stains after a hot sweaty night, brown stains of coffee, or orange spots after a tanning session. Care instructions for waterproof mattress pads vary greatly, so you should refer to the packaging label or user manual. Most of these pads are machine washable and you can tumble dry them without ripping them. Always carefully set the temperature and wash cycle to extend the lifespan of your mattress pad.
Q: Are all mattress pads waterproof?
A: Not all mattress pads are made equal – some of them merely protect the mattress from surface-level stains and discoloration, while others provide extra protection against contaminants and allergens. You should carefully read the product description to ensure that the mattress pad you’ve chosen is completely waterproof.
Q: Are mattress protectors and mattress pads the same?
A: No, a mattress protector shields your normal mattress without changing its natural feel, while a mattress pad is thicker and adds extra cushioning to your normal sleep surface.
