Ah sleep. That ever elusive thing that can make or break your day.
A well-rested eight hours and you’re king of the world. You’re more alert, you can concentrate better, your immune system has a new lease of life and you feel more Zen, less stressed and ready to take on the world. It can impact your health – physically and mentally – as well as restore, heal and is often hailed by those in the know as the secret to a clear complexion. You really cannot underestimate the power of a good night’s sleep.
The NHS website explains, "regular poor quality sleep can have a huge effect on your health, putting you at risk of developing serious medical conditions and can affect your body, thoughts, emotions and behaviour".
So why then, is it so difficult to achieve?
From staring at screens all day with disruptive blue light exposure, to allergies, sleeplessness may be caused by a whole host of reasons – and if it’s the latter, the solution may be far more cost effective than you think.
Mattress companies recommend that you change the padded vessel in which you lay your head every seven or eight years and with a mattress topper, you can maximise this to the full or even extend the life and cleanliness of your mattress.
What is a mattress protector?
A mattress protector is designed to add longevity to your mattress and prolong its lifespan. It acts as a shield from dust, dirt and allergens to keep it hygienic and fresh. There are also waterproof options to suit specific needs, from kids to the elderly, via pets and breakfast-in-bed mishaps.
You will also find breathable and lightweight options that are ideal for hot sleepers that have a cooling effect. The cotton constructions are moisture-wicking and work to regulate body temperature.
Can you wash a mattress protector?
All the mattress protectors below can be popped into a washing machine. The ideal temperature for killing dust mites is 60 degrees but pay special attention as some are better served in 40 degree washes.
Pop in the machine alongside your bedding to keep it as fresh as possible.
We’ve gathered the best mattress protectors below for all sizes.
Dreamland Boutique Hotel Cotton Mattress Protector
Not your average mattress protector, this brings the bedding essential into the next generation with the addition of Intelliheat technology. An electric blanket and fitted, padded mattress protector in one, it adapts to temperature changes as you doze off to ensure you are never overheating. There are not one but two remotes with six temperature settings so if one likes it hot and the other cold, there’s a Goldilock moment for everyone. It heats up in just five minutes and costs just 1p a night to run.
The sheet itself is deep and elasticated with a super soft 200 thread count. It’s crafted from a cosy breathable cotton percale with a spiral filling to add to your comfort levels. Pop in the machine or tumble dry for easy cleaning.
It stretches to 38cm deep and is available for single, double, kingsize and super kingsize.
Luxury Pure Cotton Quilted Mattress Protector
When it comes to luxury bedding, few do it better than The White Company. Place comfort at the forefront with its quilted mattress protector that has a plush cotton filling.
The outer casing is also crafted from cotton which is breathable and allows the air to flow through – so is ideal for those who like to slip into a cold sheet.
It is also treated with antimicrobial technology to prevent bacterial and odours from forming. Layer it under your ground sheet and you’re ready to get your eight hours in the utmost luxury. The protector is machine washable.
It’s suitable for 34cm in depth and available for cot beds, single, double, king, super king and emperor.
The Emma Mattress Protector
There’s a reason why the Emma Mattress has become one of the best-rated on the market. Whether you opt for the Original, Hybrid or Original Hybrid, the models hit that sweet spot between comfort yet support – and the protector is no different.
It has a polyester construction that is treated to Purotex – a hypoallergenic natural fibre that is a shield against allergens. Place on top of your mattress to protect against any dust or dirt that could trigger the likes of hayfever or respiratory allergic reactions. Fear not about moisture, spills or breakfast in bed accidents as it’s entirely waterproof. The protector can also go in the washing machine and is rustle-free so you can sleep soundly with no noise interruption.
It has a depth of 25cm and is available for single, small double, double, king and super king.
Tempur Water Resistant Mattress Protector
It’s basically undetectable under your fitted bed sheet but Tempur’s mattress protector is the layer your bed setup is missing. It hugs your mattress and keeps you cool and fresh throughout the night. It has a depth of 21-30cm but also features a stretch design that makes it adaptable.
The protector is crafted from breathable fabric that is also temperature-regulating. In true Tempur style, you can also be sure that it has a lovely soft skin-feel.
It’s available for single, double, king and super king.
Luxury Quilted Mattress Protector - Deep Fitted
That ever-elusive eight hours of sleep could be yours with just the simple investment of this luxury mattress protector from bedding specialists Dusk.
The protector is made entirely from cotton for both the filling and casing and so is sumptuously soft while also practical – breathability is ensured.
You can fashion on deep mattresses with a skirt to keep it in place and it has a great fit. Your mattress will stay fresher for longer.
It’s machine washable and available for single, double, king and super king.
John Lewis & Partners Specialist Synthetic Waterproof Terry Towelling Mattress Protector
A bestseller at John Lewis, this mattress protector offers all the benefits that you’d come to expect from this bedding essential with none of the drawbacks - aka it’s super silent. No crinkly noises here – a feat that is hard to achieve with waterproof products.
It is made from a cotton terry towelling top layer that is cosy and soft to the touch and has an added layer of natural peppermint treatment. No, it won’t smell like chewing gum but this does act as antimicrobial protection against bacteria and dirt to keep your mattress and the protector itself fresh and clean.
It’s 32cm in depth and available for small single, single, double, king and super king.
Argos Home Supersoft Mattress Protector
With real bang for your buck, there’s no reason not to add this protector to your virtual basket. At less than a tenner, it will prolong the life of your mattress and thus save you in the long run.
It is made from polyester, which may be more suitable as it is hypoallergenic and tends to be far more durable. The fabric is also lightweight, breathable and makes for a more water-repellent alternative to cotton.
It’s suitable for beds 30cm in depth, has a secure elasticated fit and is available for single, double, and king.
Silentnight Anti-Allergy Mattress Protector
Make sleeping through allergy season a breeze with the help of Silentnight and this mattress protector designed specifically to eliminate common allergies from your night time routine.
Approved by the British Allergy Foundation, it is made from polyester – for both the filling and the microfiber cover – that is anti-bacterial and guards against dust and bacteria from entering your mattress.
It’s good quality, easy to fit and wash as it can be chucked into the washing machine. There’s no disruptive rustling noise and will keep you cosy and warm throughout the night.
The mattress protector has a two year guarantee and comes in single, double, king and super king.
John Lewis & Partners Natural Cotton Quilted Mattress Protector
For hot sleepers everywhere, you’ll be delighted to hear that this mattress protector works to cool you down with a breathable pure cotton filling. While padded and comfortable, it helps you regulate your own temperature throughout the night.
The fabric is also embellished with a special Micro-Fresh technology that minimises bacterial growth to keep it 99.9 per cent free from any germs.
Kind to the skin and the planet, the materials have been sustainably sourced taking into consideration the fair rights of the cotton farmers and the efficient use of water.
It slips onto your mattress and can be machine washed. It’s available in small single, single, small double, double, king and super king.
Argos Home Fleecy Mattress Protector
Unlike the mattress protector above, this one is not designed for hot sleepers who like their sheets cool and crisp. This is for those who put comfort at the forefront of their dozing practices. It acts as a padded under layer of your ground sheet where the teddy construction makes for a cloud-like feel. You’ll sink right into the bed for the optimal cosy experience.
It has both a polyester cover and filling, elasticated corners for a more secure fit and is available for single, double, and king-sized beds.
Verdict
On cold winter nights, there’s few things better than slipping into warm, cosy sheets and the Dreamland Boutique Hotel Cotton Mattress Protector makes that possible with a quick heat up time that won’t cost an arm and a leg. For a luxurious and comfortable sleeping experience, honourable mention also goes to The White Company’s Pure Cotton Quilted Mattress Protector.
