Choosing Mattress Protectors for Your Bed
Mattress protectors sit between your mattress and your bed sheets, creating a barrier against spills, stains and moisture. Check out our complete bedding range, or keep reading to understand what protectors do and which style suits your needs.
What Mattress Protectors Actually Do
Protectors create a layer between your sheets and mattress surface. They catch spills before liquid reaches the mattress itself - coffee, drinks, or unexpected accidents don't soak through to stain your mattress permanently.
Beyond spills, protectors absorb the moisture we naturally release while sleeping. This moisture can build up in mattresses over time, creating an environment where dust mites thrive. A protector catches this moisture instead, keeping your mattress drier and fresher.
Most protectors are fitted sheet style - they pull over your mattress like a fitted sheet with elastic edges. This makes them simple to put on, take off, and wash regularly as part of your bedding routine.
Waterproof vs Standard Protectors
Waterproof protectors feature a waterproof backing layer. Liquid sits on the surface rather than soaking through. They're practical for protecting against spills, particularly useful for kids' beds, guest rooms, or if you eat or drink in bed occasionally.
Standard protectors without waterproof backing still offer protection from dust, allergens and light moisture, but won't stop liquid spills from reaching your mattress. They're lighter and more breathable, but provide less protection overall.
If you're protecting a new mattress or want comprehensive coverage, waterproof styles make more sense. Many combine waterproof backing with soft top surfaces made from bamboo or cotton, so they don't feel plasticky or uncomfortable.
Material Options Available
Bamboo protectors feature bamboo fabric on the sleeping surface. Bamboo is naturally breathable and soft, while the waterproof backing underneath stops moisture reaching your mattress. They're popular for combining comfort with practical protection.
Cotton protectors use cotton fabric on top - familiar, soft, and easy to care for. Quilted protectors add a thin padding layer for extra cushioning, though they're not the same as mattress toppers which provide more substantial padding.
Different materials wash and dry at different speeds. Cotton and bamboo options are typically machine washable - check care labels for specific washing temperatures and drying instructions for your chosen protector.
Practical Considerations
Mattress protectors need washing regularly - every month or two keeps them fresh and functioning properly. They're designed to be removed and washed easily, unlike the mattress itself which can't go in your washing machine.
Most protectors fit mattresses up to 40-45cm deep. If you have an extra-deep mattress or use a mattress topper as well, check the depth specifications before buying to ensure proper fit.
Protectors are available in all standard Australian sizes - single, king single, double, queen, king, and super king. Match your protector size to your mattress size for proper coverage.
Visit any of our 50+ stores where our cOMFy experts can show you different protector materials and explain care requirements. A protector qualifies you for OMF's 30-night comfort exchange when you buy a new mattress, so it's worth grabbing one when purchasing your mattress.
FAQs
Do I really need a mattress protector?
If you want to protect your mattress from spills and stains, yes. Mattresses can't be washed or dry cleaned once liquid soaks in, and stains are permanent. Protectors catch spills before they reach the mattress, saving you from replacing a stained mattress earlier than necessary. They're particularly practical for kids' beds, guest rooms, or anyone who drinks coffee or eats breakfast in bed occasionally.
Can I wash my mattress protector in the washing machine?
Most mattress protectors are machine washable - it's one of their key benefits. Check the care label on your specific protector for washing temperature and drying instructions. Generally, washing every 4-8 weeks keeps them fresh and functioning properly. They're designed to be removed and washed easily, unlike the mattress itself.
What's the difference between a mattress protector and a mattress topper?
Protectors are thin, fitted covers designed to protect your mattress from spills and stains - they don't add significant comfort or padding. Mattress toppers are thick padded layers designed to change how your mattress feels by adding extra cushioning or support. You can use both together - the topper goes on the mattress first, then the protector over the top, then your sheets.
What size mattress protector do I need?
Match your protector size to your mattress size - if you have a queen mattress, buy a queen protector. Protectors are available in all standard Australian sizes: single, king single, double, queen, king, and super king. Check the depth specifications too - most fit mattresses up to 40-45cm deep, but if your mattress is extra-deep or you use a topper as well, verify the protector will fit properly.
