Think waterproof mattress protectors are just for the potty-training years? Think again! A mattress protector is one of the unsung heroes of adulting. It's not just about spills and stains – it's about keeping your sleep sanctuary clean, fresh, allergy-friendly and more.
What Is a Mattress Protector Pad?
A mattress protector pad is used to protect your mattress from, well, life! Mattress protector pads keep the surface of your mattress clean and help to keep your sleeping space in good condition from the inside out. After all, a mattress is an investment in your health and wellness – you want to preserve this investment as much as possible.
By using a mattress protector pad, you can ensure that your mattress will be protected from any moisture-causing materials like sweat, spills or skincare, common allergens like pet dander and dust, and other common contaminants like dirt.
By keeping the surface of your mattress protected with a mattress protector pad, you can keep the inside of the mattress clean, too.
Types of Mattress Protectors
With so many different mattress protector pads to choose from, it’s important to know what each type is meant for to choose the best option for you and your family. There are three common mattress protectors on the market today:
- Fitted protectors
- Mattress protectors with elastic straps
- Encasement protectors
Regardless of your preference in mattress protector type, what really matters are the materials that your mattress protector is made from. After all, it doesn’t make much sense to protect your mattress from harm with materials that harm your health.
Choosing a mattress protector that is made from safer, healthier materials will be beneficial for your mattress and, more importantly, your health – because that’s the part that’s irreplaceable.
Mattress Pad vs Mattress Protector
What’s the difference between a mattress protector and a mattress pad, anyway? There’s definitely a few!
Think of mattress protectors as your bed’s barrier from the outside world. Although they don’t offer comfort on their own, they’re perfect for a mattress that you already like the feel of and simply want to protect. A good mattress protector is barely noticeable while you’re sleeping – or, better yet, not noticeable at all.
If you’re looking for an added layer of cushioning, a mattress pad is the way to go. Also called mattress toppers, they alter the feel of your mattress and are perfect for customizing your bed’s comfort level to your unique preferences.
If you’re interested in adding a mattress pad to your mattress, we have plenty of certified organic toppers to shop.
3 Reasons to Get a Mattress Protector
Although regularly washing your bedding is a great way to keep your sleeping space cleaner and healthier, it won’t be enough to truly protect your bed from contaminants. Even if you don't think you need one, there are several benefits that mattress protectors can offer to you and your family. Here are three.
Protect Yourself From Allergens
Common sleep-disrupting allergens include:
- Dirt
- Dust
- Pet dander
Even if you’re washing your sheets on a regular basis, these irritants can still hide in your bed. Having a mattress protector will ensure that none of these common irritants will get inside of your mattress and disrupt your peaceful slumber.
You Can’t Run From Your Own Biology
Believe it or not, YOU can be a source of common irritants inside of your own mattress. We’re talking:
- Sweat
- Oils
- Skin cells
- Hair cells
You know, the things we simply cannot avoid – the parts of being a human being!
In fact, your mattress can actually gain small amounts of weight over time from all of these stowaway particles. The good news? You can help prevent these materials from sneaking inside your bed with a mattress protector pad.
Limit Moisture Damage
Even if you’re diligent about avoiding spills in bed, moisture can still build up inside your mattress from sweat (especially if you’re sleeping on materials that are known to make you hot and sweaty, like polyurethane foam).
Moreover, this moisture buildup creates the perfect environment for mildew and mold growth – something you do NOT want inside of your sleep sanctuary. Obviously.
Mattress protectors help to eliminate this issue by preventing any moisture from getting inside of our mattress. With a mattress protector, you can say, “no more moisture hiding in the bed!”
Questions to Ask When You’re Shopping
With as many options as there are, shopping for a mattress protector can be daunting. These important questions can help!
Is it Organic?
Remember: it’s not organic unless it’s certified organic. Shopping smarter is always easier when you’re looking for trusted certifications like the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS). Learn more about Naturepedic’s certifications.
Is it Breathable?
Breathability isn’t just for crib mattresses! A breathable mattress protector can help you naturally regulate your body temperature while you sleep, which means no more hot and sweaty nights that damage your mattress and your sleep quality. Just cooler, comfier slumber, night after night.
Does the Waterproofing Contain Vinyl or Phthalates?
Waterproof mattress protectors are great for protecting your mattress, but it’s not worth it if they harm your health in the process.
Common waterproofing materials like vinyl/PVC and phthalates can hurt our health while we sleep. Phthalates alone have been linked to several adverse health effects like disruptions in the endocrine system.
Our beds are supposed to be a space where we can unwind and relax from the day, not a space where we have to worry about unacceptable levels of toxic chemicals. Paying attention to the materials in the waterproofing of your mattress protector pad can help preserve your mattress and your well-being.
Does it Make a Crinkling Sound?
Most mattress protectors are barely noticeable, but if they’re made from plastics or other similar materials, they can surely disrupt your sleep.
Choosing mattress protectors made from softer materials, like organic cotton, can reduce the noises that can crinkle while you sleep. (Not to mention how much healthier organic materials are!)
Is it Easy to Care For?
Investing in an easy-to-clean, low-maintenance mattress protector will ensure that your days will be spent just as peacefully as your restful nights. By ensuring that your mattress protector is waterproof, breathable, and machine washable and dryable, you can protect your mattress and your peace.
If you started reading this blog asking the question, “Do I need a mattress protector?”, we hope it’s now plain to see why the answer is probably yes.
Featuring certified organic cotton fabric with a thin layer of GOTS-approved PU waterproofing in the middle, Naturepedic’s certified organic protector pads are crafted with the utmost care to protect your mattress’s health, your health and the planet’s health.