9 best mattress protectors, tried and tested in a family home

Best mattress protector overall
M&S quilted waterproof extra deep mattress protector £26
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Best budget mattress protector
IMFAA fully zipped encased mattress protector £17
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Best cooling mattress protector
Simba tripleshield tencel cool mattress protector £89
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Best mattress protector for kids
Family Bedding 100% waterproof terry cotton mattress protector £10
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Best 2-in-1 mattress protector with sheet
Tempur thermoregulating mattress protector £129 £86
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Best mattress protector for comfort
Dusk luxury quilted mattress protector £20
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Best mattress protector for durability
Panda London bamboo mattress protector £37 £33
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Best waterproof mattress protector
Ikea sotnatfjaril waterproof mattress protector £35
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Best quilted mattress protector
Dunelm Fogarty quilted mattress protector £30
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While mattress protectors aren’t the most thrilling bedroom purchase, they are certainly among the most practical. You likely won’t give them a second thought until a child has an accident, a drink is spilled, or your morning coffee ends up in the wrong spot, leaving you hoping you won’t have to replace your mattress entirely.

As a mother of four, I consider them essential. Between potty-training mishaps, occasional illnesses, and children sneaking into my bed overnight, our mattresses have endured just about everything. A protector serves as an insurance policy, guarding against spills, perspiration, and daily wear while keeping your mattress hygienic and in good shape for a longer period.

Given that a high-quality mattress can cost hundreds or even thousands of pounds, this modest investment could prevent a much larger expense later on. To identify the top options, I evaluated a variety of waterproof and quilted models, assessing comfort, breathability, fit, longevity, and overall value to determine which are truly worth your money.

The best mattress protectors for 2026 are:

Best overall – M&S quilted waterproof extra deep mattress protector: £30, Marksandspencer.com

Best budget option – IMFAA fully zipped encased mattress protector: £16.95, Amazon.co.uk

Best cooling mattress protector – Simba tripleshield tencel cool mattress protector: £89, Simbasleep.com

Best for kids – Family Bedding 100% waterproof terry cotton mattress protector: £10.99, Amazon.co.uk

Best mattress protector overall

Why we love it: Comfortable quilted top, quiet waterproof backing, secure extra-deep fit, excellent value.

Take note: Lacks cooling technology.

Finding a mattress protector that hits every mark is surprisingly challenging. Some are soft but lack waterproofing, while others protect the mattress effectively but make the bed feel noisy or overheated. The M&S sleep solutions waterproof quilted mattress protector provided the best balance of any I tested.

The cotton-rich quilted surface added a layer of comfort without altering the feel of my mattress, while the waterproof underside offered complete peace of mind regarding family accidents. Even better, it never felt like plastic and didn’t rustle when I moved.

The 38cm deep elasticated skirt was among the most generous I found, fitting securely around my mattress without slipping during the night. I also appreciated that it emerged from the washing machine looking as good as new. At roughly £30 for a king size, it represents exceptional value, costing significantly less than many premium alternatives while performing just as well.

There are other options here with more specialized features, such as Simba’s cooling technology, but if you simply want a comfortable, reliable protector that guards your mattress without interfering with your sleep, this is the one I would recommend.

Sizes available: Single, double, king, super king

Material: Outer 100% cotton, backing 100% polyester

Care instructions: Machine washable at 40 degrees

Best budget mattress protector

Why we love it: Protects all six sides, fully waterproof, stays securely in place, affordable.

Take note: Difficult to fit, less soft than quilted protectors.

The IMFAA fully zipped mattress protector takes a different approach than most of the models I evaluated. Rather than fitting like a standard sheet, it completely encases the mattress with a zipper, shielding all six sides from spills, stains, dust mites, and daily wear. I really appreciated the extra assurance that accidents were unlikely to seep in from the sides or underneath, and the fully enclosed design also helps prevent dust, dirt, and skin cells from accumulating inside the mattress over time.

Getting it on was a bit of a workout, as I had to maneuver the mattress into the cover before zipping it shut. Once installed, however, it stayed perfectly in place. Unlike the Ikea elasticated protector, I never had to adjust the corners or pull it back into position.

Another benefit is that it is fully waterproof, making it a fantastic choice for households with children or pets. It isn’t the most plush protector in this guide, but at under £17, it provides an impressive level of protection for the price.

Best cooling mattress protector

Why we love it: Noticeably cooling, breathable Tencel surface, quiet waterproof layer, deep fit.

Take note: Expensive.

As someone who occasionally wakes up feeling overheated, I am usually cautious about waterproof mattress protectors because they often trap warmth. The Simba tripleshield does the opposite. Its naturally breathable Tencel sleep surface and Stratos cooling technology kept my bed feeling noticeably fresher, without compromising the waterproof protection underneath.

Underneath, there is a waterproof membrane to guard against spills and accidents, alongside a tripleshield treatment designed to defend against bacteria, dust mites, and allergens. Fortunately, all that technology does not come at the cost of comfort. It never rustled when I turned over, didn’t make my mattress feel like plastic, and the 40cm deep elasticated skirt stayed firmly in place throughout my testing.

The only downside is the cost. It is one of the most expensive protectors I tested, so it might feel like overkill for a guest room or a child’s bed. However, if you have invested in a premium mattress and tend to run hot at night, I believe it is money well spent. It protects your mattress while helping you stay cooler and more comfortable, which is a claim not every waterproof protector can make.

Sizes available: Single, small double, double, king, super king, EU single, EU double, EU queen

Material: Outer 100% tencel, backing 100% polyester

Care instructions: Machine wash separately on a gentle cycle

Best mattress protector for kids

Why we love it: Affordable, excellent waterproofing, quick to wash and dry, secure fit.

Take note: Lacks quilting, not cooling.

When you are purchasing mattress protectors for multiple children’s beds, the costs add up quickly. At just £10.99 for a single, the Family Bedding terry mattress protector keeps your mattresses shielded for less. I tested the 90 x 200cm size on my children’s bunk beds, where it fitted securely and stayed in place without bunching or slipping.

It lacks the plush quilting or cooling technology found in some of the premium protectors in this guide, but my children never complained that they were missing out. Crucially, they never mentioned that it was uncomfortable or noisy, and it didn’t disrupt their sleep at all.

The waterproofing also impressed me. When I poured 100ml of water onto the surface, it simply pooled on top without a drop reaching the mattress underneath. It also washed and dried quickly, which is ideal if you are dealing with an accident and need to get it back on the bed the same day.

Sizes available: European single, double, king, super king

Care instructions: Machine wash at 40 degrees

Best 2-in-1 mattress protector with sheet

Why we love it: Replaces a sheet and protector, luxurious Tencel surface, cooling, machine washable at 60C.

Take note: Very expensive.

Changing the bed is rarely anyone’s favorite chore, so I liked the concept of replacing both the fitted sheet and the mattress protector with one item. The Tempur thermoregulating mattress protector is a two-in-one product, allowing you to sleep directly on top of it, and it fits mattresses up to 32cm deep.

The silky-soft Tencel surface felt far more luxurious than I anticipated from a mattress protector. It felt cool to the touch as soon as I climbed into bed, which Tempur attributes to thermic microcapsules woven into the fabric. The waterproof perlam membrane underneath provided excellent protection against liquids, keeping my mattress completely dry during testing.

At £149, it is undeniably pricey, and you will likely want a second one for wash days, but the cost is easier to justify when you consider it provides two products in one. Rather than just protecting the mattress, it made the entire bed feel cooler, tidier, and more luxurious every night.

Sizes: Single, small single, double, small double, king, super king, euro king, emperor

Material: 100% LYOCELL. Backing: 100% Polyurethane, PERLAM® Lamination

Fits: Mattresses up to 32cm deep

Care instructions: Machine washable up to 60 degrees

Best mattress protector for comfort

Why we love it: Soft and comfortable, breathable cotton, available in two depths, excellent value.

Take note: Not waterproof.

If your mattress already feels supportive but you would like it to feel a bit more luxurious, the Dusk luxury quilted mattress protector is a great starting point. The thick quilted cotton top added just enough cushioning to make my bed feel cozier without masking the feel of the mattress underneath. It was among the softest protectors I tested.

It also remained cool and breathable throughout the night, with none of the rustling or stiffness you sometimes encounter with thicker protectors. The deep elasticated skirt kept it securely in place, and I appreciated that it is available in both standard and deep-fit versions to accommodate different mattresses.

If your priority is making your bed feel a little more comfortable while protecting your mattress from daily wear, this is an excellent choice that performs well beyond its price point.

Sizes available: Single, small double, double, king, super king

Best mattress protector for durability

Why we love it: Soft and breathable, stays in place, washes well, reusable packaging.

Take note: Cooling effect depends on the sheet used on top.

Made from 70 percent sustainable bamboo and 30 percent cotton, Panda London’s mattress protector feels like it is built to last. It features a deep elasticated skirt to fit mattresses up to 35cm deep, so I never struggled with it over a corner, and the fabric remained soft and breathable after repeated washing.

Bamboo fabric is naturally breathable and hypoallergenic, and Panda London claims this helps to regulate temperature while creating a barrier against dust mites and other common allergens. I don’t suffer from allergies, but I could feel that this mattress protector was softer and cooler than cheaper options like the IMFAA zipped protector. However, to maximize the benefits, I would suggest ensuring you use a cooling sheet, as you won’t experience the cooling properties of this protector if your sheet isn’t breathable.

Another highlight is that it arrives in a reusable bamboo storage bag rather than unnecessary plastic packaging, which is a thoughtful finishing touch.

Sizes available: Single, small double, double, king, super king, eu single, eu double, eu king, eu emperor

Material: 70% bamboo, 30% cotton

Care instructions: Machine wash at up to 50 degrees

Best waterproof mattress protector

Why we love it: Excellent waterproofing, thick and comfortable, fits mattresses up to 42cm deep.

Take note: Sides are not protected, corner straps can shift.

If your primary goal is keeping your mattress protected from water, you need the Ikea sotnatfjaril. I poured water onto the surface and watched it bead up rather than soaking through, giving me plenty of time to wipe it away before it could reach the mattress. I must admit I was pleasantly surprised, as, from first impressions, it looks like it is built for comfort rather than practicality.

In addition to a strong waterproof membrane, this mattress protector has a top layer of wadding, which made my sleeping surface much more comfortable. I would go so far as to say it performs the job of a mattress protector and a mattress topper in one.

The only drawback is that it attaches to the mattress with elastic over the corners, so it doesn’t offer any protection to the sides, unlike fitted-sheet-style protectors such as the Panda London and Simba models. However, this does mean it fits mattresses up to 42cm deep, making it the most versatile in this guide.

Best quilted mattress protector

Why we love it: Thick and comfortable, waterproof, retains its shape after washing.

Take note: Only fits mattresses up to 30cm, limited size range.

I am constantly looking for ways to add some hotel luxury to my bedroom, and I felt that Dunelm delivered this at a wallet-friendly price. While their own-brand Fogarty mattress protector is not as cheap as the ones I tested from Dusk or IMFAA, it provides a noticeably thick and padded sleep surface at a third of the price of the Simba or Tempur offerings. I liked that it was soft, comfortable, and made the bed look plumper.

Unlike some protectors that rely entirely on polyester, the Fogarty’s polycotton cover felt noticeably more breathable and natural against the mattress. For me, it struck a lovely balance between comfort and practicality, helping the bed stay fresh overnight while still offering waterproof protection underneath. It also washed well, holding onto its shape and quilting after several trips through the washing machine.

My only issue is that it fits mattresses up to 30cm deep, which is not a lot if you have a layered hybrid mattress or one with multiple layers of springs.

Sizes available: Single, double, king

Material: 50% cotton, 50% polyester

Your questions about mattress protectors answered

What is the best mattress protector?

After testing several mattress protectors, I found the M&S sleep solutions waterproof quilted mattress protector struck the best balance of comfort, waterproofing, breathability, and value for money. It was soft, without being hot, and it never slipped or rustled under my sheets.

If you tend to sleep hot, the Simba tripleshield tencel cooling mattress protector is worth the extra investment, while the Ikea sotnatfjaril gave me the greatest confidence when it came to waterproofing. For children’s bedrooms, I would save some money and opt for the Family Bedding terry mattress protector, which is just £10.99 for a single.

How I tested mattress protectors

I tested each mattress protector at home over several weeks on a variety of mattresses, including my own bed and my children’s beds. As a family of six, they experienced everything from everyday sleep and warm summer nights to inevitable spills and frequent washing, giving me a realistic picture of how each one performs in a busy household.

I compared each mattress protector for:

Comfort: Whether I could feel it underneath the fitted sheet, if it rustled or crinkled during the night, and whether it altered the feel of the mattress.

Waterproofing: I tested how well each protector coped with accidental spills, checking whether moisture soaked through to the mattress or beaded on the surface.

Breathability: I looked at whether each protector stayed cool and comfortable overnight or trapped heat, particularly during warmer weather.

Fit: I checked how securely each protector stayed on the mattress, whether the elasticated skirt fitted deep mattresses properly, and if it shifted during the night.

Ease of care: Every protector was washed several times following the manufacturer’s instructions to see how well it retained its waterproofing, softness, and shape.

Value for money: Finally, I considered whether the materials, performance, and durability justified the price, from affordable supermarket options to premium protectors designed to last for years.