Do You Need a Mattress Protector? How to Choose the Right One
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Do You Need a Mattress Protector?
You do not need a mattress protector for a bed to function, but for many households it is a practical layer to have.
Unlike a fitted sheet, which is part of the bedding you sleep against, a mattress protector sits underneath the sheet and creates an extra removable layer between everyday use and the mattress itself.
That matters because a fitted sheet and mattress protector can be removed and washed, while cleaning a mattress itself is considerably less straightforward.
A protector therefore makes sense if you want an easier way to deal with everyday marks, dust or accidental spills without repeatedly cleaning the mattress.
The better question is not simply whether you need one, but what you want your mattress protector to do.
If your priority is everyday protection, a quilted protector may be enough. If liquids and spills are a concern, a waterproof protector is the more appropriate option.
If you already know what you need, browse our complete mattress protectors range.
What Does a Mattress Protector Do?
A mattress protector is a removable bedding layer that fits over the mattress and underneath your normal fitted sheet.
Its exact purpose depends on the type you choose.
A standard quilted protector provides a washable barrier between the mattress and your bedding. A waterproof protector adds an additional layer designed to help prevent everyday liquids from reaching the mattress.
A protector is not designed to transform an uncomfortable mattress into a comfortable one. If changing the feel of your bed is your main goal, you are probably looking for a mattress topper rather than a protector.
Quilted or Waterproof Mattress Protector?
For most people, this is the first important choice.
Choose a Quilted Mattress Protector If...
A quilted protector is a practical option when you mainly want an additional washable layer between your mattress and fitted sheet.
The quilted surface adds a light protective layer without introducing a waterproof membrane.
It can work well for a main bedroom, spare room or guest bed where liquid protection is not a particular concern.
Explore our Quilted Mattress Protector for available sizes and fitted depths.
Choose a Waterproof Mattress Protector If...
A waterproof protector is worth considering when accidental liquid reaching the mattress is a realistic concern.
This may include children's beds, guest rooms, homes with pets, drinks in bed or simply wanting an additional level of protection for your mattress.
Our Waterproof Quilted Mattress Protector combines a quilted upper surface with a waterproof protective layer underneath.
It is important not to assume that every quilted protector is waterproof. If waterproofing matters to you, check that the product specifically states that it provides waterproof protection.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Quilted Protector | Waterproof Quilted Protector |
|---|---|---|
| Everyday protective layer | Yes | Yes |
| Quilted surface | Yes | Yes |
| Waterproof barrier | No | Yes |
| Used beneath a fitted sheet | Yes | Yes |
| Best when spills are a concern | Not specifically | Yes |
There is no reason to pay for a feature you do not need. If waterproofing matters, choose it deliberately. If it does not, a straightforward quilted protector may be the simpler option.
Mattress Protector vs Mattress Topper: What's the Difference?
A mattress protector and a mattress topper sit in roughly the same area of the bed, which is why they are often confused, but their purposes are different.
A mattress protector protects the mattress.
A mattress topper changes the feel of the bed.
A topper is generally much thicker and is chosen because you want to add another comfort layer to the mattress. A protector is thinner and primarily provides a removable layer between your mattress and bedding.
You can use both together.
If you want the protector to fit over both your topper and mattress, check their combined depth before buying.
Do You Need Both a Mattress Topper and Mattress Protector?
Only if you need both products to perform their different jobs.
If your mattress already feels comfortable and you simply want to protect it, you probably do not need a topper.
If you want to change the feel of your mattress but are not concerned about an additional protective layer, you may choose a topper on its own.
If you want additional comfort and a removable layer protecting the mattress-and-topper combination, using both can make sense.
How to Choose the Right Mattress Protector Size
Start with the actual measurements of your mattress.
Do not buy a larger protector simply because you think extra fabric will make fitting easier. A protector should correspond with the size of the mattress and provide enough fitted depth around the sides.
Check three measurements:
- Width
- Length
- Depth
Width and length determine whether you need Single, Small Double, Double, King or Super King. Depth determines how much fitted skirt you need around the mattress.
Mattress Protector Sizes UK
| Size | Approx. Stoftly Protector Size | Shop |
|---|---|---|
| Single | 90 x 190cm | Single Mattress Protectors |
| Small Double | 122 x 190cm | Small Double Mattress Protectors |
| Double | 137 x 193cm | Double Mattress Protectors |
| King | 152 x 200cm | King Size Mattress Protectors |
| Super King | 183 x 200cm | Super King Mattress Protectors |
Mattress dimensions can vary slightly, particularly with imported or specialist mattresses, so measure your own mattress before ordering.
Single Mattress Protectors
A Single protector is designed for a standard Single bed rather than trying to stretch or fold a different size into place.
Single beds are commonly used in children's rooms, guest bedrooms and smaller spaces, so waterproof protection may be useful depending on how the bed is used.
Browse our Single mattress protectors.
Small Double Mattress Protectors
A Small Double is narrower than a standard Double, so the two protector sizes should not be treated as interchangeable.
If your mattress is a 4ft Small Double, choose a protector intended for that size rather than using a standard Double protector with excess material around the sides.
Browse our Small Double mattress protectors.
Double Mattress Protectors
A Double protector should match the width and length of your Double mattress while also providing sufficient depth around the sides.
Two Double mattresses can have similar width and length but very different depths, so measure all three dimensions.
Browse our Double mattress protectors.
King Size Mattress Protectors
King mattresses are wider and longer than standard Double mattresses, so they need correspondingly sized protective bedding.
If you use a substantial mattress topper, remember to include its height when measuring the total depth.
Browse our King size mattress protectors.
Super King Mattress Protectors
A Super King needs a protector designed for the full width and length of the mattress.
Stretching a smaller protector across a larger mattress can pull at the corners, while using an oversized protector on a smaller bed may leave unnecessary loose fabric beneath the fitted sheet.
Browse our Super King mattress protectors.
How Deep Should a Mattress Protector Be?
Mattress depth is one of the most commonly overlooked measurements.
Measure vertically from the top sleeping surface of your mattress to the bottom edge.
If you want the protector to fit around both your mattress and mattress topper, measure their combined depth.
For example, a 28cm mattress with a 7cm topper creates a combined depth of approximately 35cm.
Do not automatically choose the deepest protector available. Extra fabric is not always helpful. The aim is to choose enough depth for the protector to sit comfortably around your mattress.
30cm or 40cm Mattress Protector?
The difference is simply the fitted depth.
A 30cm protector may suit mattresses that require a deeper fit without needing a full extra-deep skirt.
A 40cm protector provides additional room for thicker mattresses or mattress-and-topper combinations.
A 40cm protector is not automatically better than a 30cm protector. It is simply deeper.
Measure your mattress first and choose the option that best matches your bed.
Where Does a Mattress Protector Go?
For a bed without a mattress topper:
Mattress → Mattress Protector → Fitted Sheet
For a bed where you want the protector to cover both the mattress and topper:
Mattress → Mattress Topper → Mattress Protector → Fitted Sheet
The combined depth of the mattress and topper needs to fit within the protector's fitted skirt.
Do You Put a Bedsheet Over a Mattress Protector?
Yes. Your normal fitted sheet goes over the mattress protector.
The protector is not intended to replace the fitted sheet. It sits underneath it as an additional removable protective layer.
Does a Mattress Protector Change the Feel of a Mattress?
It can make a small difference because you are adding another layer to the bed, but it should not be confused with the effect of a mattress topper.
A quilted protector adds a light layer of fabric and quilting, while a waterproof protector also includes a protective membrane.
If you want to make a firm mattress noticeably softer or add substantial cushioning, a protector is not designed for that purpose. Consider a mattress topper instead.
What Should You Avoid When Buying a Mattress Protector?
Buying by Bed Size Alone
Knowing that you have a Double or King mattress is useful, but you should also measure its depth.
Assuming Every Protector Is Waterproof
Waterproof and non-waterproof protectors are different products. If liquid protection matters, check the specification carefully.
Buying a Larger Size for Extra Room
More fabric does not necessarily improve the fit. An oversized protector can leave loose material underneath your fitted sheet.
Forgetting Your Mattress Topper
A topper increases the overall height of the bed. Include it in your measurement if your protector will sit over both layers.
Buying a Protector When You Need a Topper
If your main problem is mattress comfort, a protective layer is unlikely to solve it. A topper is designed for changing the feel of the bed.
What About Hot Sleepers?
Do not assume a mattress protector is automatically cooling simply because it is described as breathable.
Your sleeping temperature is influenced by the complete bed setup, including the mattress, topper, protector, fitted sheet and duvet.
A waterproof protector includes an additional protective layer, while a non-waterproof quilted protector has a different construction.
Choose according to the materials and features that actually matter to you rather than relying on broad cooling claims.
Should You Wash a New Mattress Protector Before Using It?
Check the product care label first.
Some people prefer to wash new bedding before first use, but the correct washing and drying method should come from the specific product instructions.
Stoftly's current quilted and waterproof quilted mattress protectors are machine washable.
Avoid assuming that every protector can be washed or dried using the same temperature, particularly when waterproof materials are involved.
How Often Should You Wash a Mattress Protector?
There is no single washing schedule that suits every household.
A protector on a rarely used guest bed will not necessarily need the same routine as one on a child's bed or a bed affected by a spill.
Wash it as part of your regular bedding care and whenever it becomes soiled, following the instructions on the product label.
Mattress Protector Buying Checklist
Before buying, ask yourself five simple questions:
- What size is my mattress?
- How deep is it?
- Will a mattress topper sit underneath the protector?
- Do I need waterproof protection?
- Am I protecting the mattress or trying to change how it feels?
Those answers will usually tell you what type of protector you need without getting lost in product terminology.
Once you know your size, shop directly:
- Single Mattress Protectors
- Small Double Mattress Protectors
- Double Mattress Protectors
- King Size Mattress Protectors
- Super King Mattress Protectors
Or compare all available options in our Mattress Protectors collection.