Should you choose a waterproof mattress protector?

A mattress protectorisalmost essential for ensuring the longevity of your bedding and improving your sleep comfort. This raises the following question: Should you choosea waterproof modelora more traditional mattress protector?

The answer is mixed, as awaterproof mattress protectorcanbe beneficial for certain types of sleepers. However, sleeping on this type of mattress protector (also called a “mattress pad”)isn’t always comfortable or good for your health. So, how do you make the right choice? Here’s what you need to know about waterproof mattress protectors, so you can form your own opinion and buy the model that’s right for you!

Why Should You Protect Your Mattress?

If you sleep directly on the mattress with just a fitted sheet, you may simply be shortening themattress’s lifespan. Even if you have a high-quality mattress that breathes well, it’s not immune to moisture damage over time. In fact, sweat and ambient humidity are the main factors that can damage your mattress.

In addition, using a mattress protector ensuresthe hygiene of your bedding—and, consequently, your own hygiene. Since a fitted sheet doesn’t absorb all moisture and potential stains, without additional protection, the mattress itself will get stained. And it will then be very difficult to wash and sanitize it! On the other hand, a mattress protector can be removed in just a few seconds and machine-washed at 60°, and sometimes even up to 90°. This way, you can eliminate stains and bacteria, so you can sleep in a fresh, healthy bed again.

In addition, if your mattress is made of foam—a material that isn't naturallydust-mite-resistant—a mattress protector can act as a barrier against these tiny creatures. If you have allergies, this mattress cover could save your nights!

However, it is still advisable to choose a mattress made of a natural material such as latex, which prevents dust mites from developing without the need for any special treatment. That doesn't mean you should skip using a mattress protector, though: it provides an extra layer of protection that will ensure you get a good night's sleep.

Another point you might not have thought of, but that’s good to know, concerns themattress warranty. In fact, if you want to make a warranty claim in the years following your in-store purchase or the product’s delivery, the manufacturer often requires that the mattress have been used properly and that it be clean and stain-free. A mattress protector is therefore a solution to avoid having your warranty claim denied in the event that the mattress sags or, for example, if you find that the mattress isn’t right for you after trying it out for several nights.

When should you choose a waterproof mattress protector?

As the name suggests,awaterproof mattress protectorprevents liquids from coming into contact with the mattress. Please note, however, that a waterproof mattress cover is not necessarily suitable for people with incontinence or frequent bedwetting. In such cases, you should opt for a specialized protector with greater absorbency.

On the other hand, a waterproof mattress protector is very useful for people whosweat a lot at night, those who let their pets sleep with them, or women who haveheavy periods. Thanks to its waterproof design, the mattress protector prevents liquids from seeping through and reaching the mattress. All you need to do is remove the mattress protector the next morning and put it in the washing machine. Our tip: plan to buy twomattress protectorsfor your mattress,soyou’ll always have a clean, dry one to replace the soiled one. Some models take several hours to dry completely after a wash cycle.

If, in addition to being waterproof, the mattress protector hassome absorbency, it will also help you enjoy a more comfortable night’s sleep than you would with a standard mattress cover. You’ll be less likely to be woken up by the unpleasant feeling of dampness on the mattress.

What are the disadvantages of a mattress protector?

While a waterproof mattress cover certainly has its advantages, it’s important to remember that it’s far from being the perfect solution for protecting your mattress.

Health Risks

First of all, it’s important to know that these mattress protectors are madefromsynthetic materials derived from plastic and petrochemicals. Harmful substances can therefore be released from such mattress protectors, which is especiallydangerousfor babiesandchildren. Plastics can also trigger allergies in some people, which can disrupt sleep and lead to more serious health problems in the long term.

When it comes to mattress protectors and bedding in general, it’s not always a good idea to choose a synthetic material. Health is priceless, and it’s better to choose a natural, high-quality mattress protector—even if it costs a little more—rather than a product that could be harmful.

The lack of comfort

Another drawback of the mattress pad is itslack of breathability. This is especially true for products with a PVC or PEPP (polyethylene-polypropylene) membrane. While they do offer a high level of waterproofing, this comes at the expense of comfort.

Worse still, these non-breathable materials can increase sweating while you sleep: if you sweat while sleeping and thought you’d found the perfect solution with a waterproofmattress protector, you might want to reconsider. Otherwise, opt for a product made with as many natural materials as possible and a polyurethane membrane, which is more breathable.

If you choose a PVC mattress protector, regardless of its price, you may also be bothered by the noise it makes with every slight movement. Although faint, theserustling soundscanquickly become a major nuisance, preventing you from falling asleep or waking you up at night.

What are some alternatives to waterproof bedding?

As you can see,mattress padsaren'tthe best mattress protectors available on the market. If you or your children don't have any specific issues with bedwetting, excessive night sweating, or heavy menstrual flow, it's best to choose a healthier and more comfortable product. 

To ensure your mattresses are well protected, you can choose from a variety of other materials:

• a mattress protector made offleece fabric,composedof cotton, designed to be soft and warm for winter;
• acotton jersey mattress cover, which is a lighter fabric suitable for the hottest times of the year;
• A protective layer made fromTencel, a wood-based material, that offers elasticity and softness.

With these natural products, you protect your health and enjoy a high-quality mattress cover that naturally fights bacteria, dust mites, and moisture. That’s why Kipli doesn’t offer waterproof mattress protectors: the focus is onthenatural benefits of cottontoprovide you with the best in bedding.

All you have to do is find a cover that fits your bedding or your baby's mattress, and you're all set for a good night's sleep!

We recommend these other pages:

• How to Choose a Mattress Protector for Your Baby?
• Choosing a Dust Mite-Resistant Mattress Protector
• How to Choose a Mattress Protector?