Mattress Protectors

What Is a Mattress Protector?

A mattress protector is a removable bedding accessory that covers your mattress to shield it from spills, stains, allergens, dust mites, and general wear. Unlike a mattress pad (which adds cushioning), a mattress protector's primary purpose is protection — keeping your mattress clean, hygienic, and in warranty-compliant condition. At LA Mattress Stores, we carry premium mattress protectors designed to complement our mattress collection, including waterproof options, cooling protectors, and hypoallergenic models — available at all five of our Los Angeles locations.

With over 27,100 monthly searches for "mattress protector," 18,100 for "waterproof mattress protector," and 5,400 for "best mattress protector," this essential bedding accessory is one of the most searched-for sleep products online. A quality mattress protector is the single best investment you can make to extend your mattress's lifespan and maintain its performance. Every mattress we sell at LA Mattress Stores — from a $500 Diamond to a $5,000 Tempur-Pedic — benefits from a proper protector.

Benefits of Mattress Protectors

A mattress protector is a small investment that delivers major returns. Here are the key benefits:

• Waterproof Protection: A waterproof mattress protector creates an impenetrable barrier against spills, accidents, sweat, and body fluids. This is critical because moisture that penetrates a mattress can cause mold, mildew, and permanent odors that are impossible to remove.
• Allergen Barrier: Quality mattress protectors block dust mites, pet dander, and common allergens from penetrating the mattress surface. This creates a cleaner, healthier sleep environment — especially important for allergy and asthma sufferers.
• Warranty Protection: Most mattress warranties are voided by stains — even small ones. A mattress protector keeps your mattress stain-free, ensuring your warranty remains valid for the full term. This alone makes it worth the investment.
• Extended Mattress Life: Body oils, sweat, dead skin cells, and dust accumulate in mattresses over time, breaking down foam and fabric. A protector prevents this buildup, helping your mattress maintain its comfort and performance for years longer.
• Easy to Clean: You can't machine wash a mattress, but you can machine wash a mattress protector. Regular washing keeps your sleep surface fresh and hygienic — simply remove, wash, dry, and replace.
• Temperature Regulation: Premium mattress protectors feature cooling fabrics like Tencel™ or phase-change materials that wick moisture and regulate temperature, adding a cooling layer between you and your mattress without altering the mattress feel.

How to Choose the Best Mattress Protector

Shopping for the best mattress protector near me in Los Angeles? Here's what to look for:

• Waterproof vs. Water-Resistant: Waterproof protectors use a membrane (usually polyurethane) that blocks all liquids. Water-resistant options repel minor spills but can't withstand significant moisture. For full protection, always choose waterproof — especially for families with children or pets.
• Breathability: The best waterproof mattress protectors are breathable — they block liquids while allowing air and moisture vapor to pass through. This prevents the hot, sweaty feeling that cheap plastic protectors can cause. Look for protectors with polyurethane membrane backing rather than vinyl or PVC.
• Fit and Style: Fitted sheet-style protectors wrap around the mattress with an elastic skirt. Encasement protectors zip completely around the mattress, covering all six sides. Fitted styles are easier to put on and remove; encasements provide the most complete protection against bed bugs and allergens.
• Fabric Quality: Premium protectors use soft fabrics like cotton terry, Tencel™, or bamboo-derived rayon that feel comfortable against skin. Avoid crinkly plastic protectors — modern waterproof protectors are silent and barely noticeable under your sheets.
• Pocket Depth: Make sure the protector fits your mattress height. Standard protectors fit mattresses up to 14 inches. Deep pocket versions accommodate 16–18 inch mattresses. If you have a pillow top or extra-thick mattress, check the depth specifications carefully.

Mattress Protector vs. Other Bedding Accessories

Mattress Protector vs. Mattress Pad

A mattress pad adds a layer of cushioning on top of the mattress, primarily for comfort. A mattress protector provides a protective barrier, primarily for hygiene and mattress longevity. Some products combine both functions, but a dedicated protector with waterproof backing offers superior protection. For the best setup, use a mattress protector directly on the mattress, then add a mattress pad on top if you want extra comfort.

Mattress Protector vs. Mattress Topper

A mattress topper is a thick (2–4 inch) comfort layer placed on top of the mattress to change its feel — adding softness, support, or cooling. A protector is thin and transparent to the mattress feel, focused solely on protection. They serve completely different purposes and can be used together: protector on the mattress, topper on the protector.

Mattress Protector vs. Mattress Encasement

A mattress encasement is a type of protector that fully encloses the mattress on all six sides with a zippered closure. Standard protectors only cover the top and sides. Encasements provide complete protection against bed bugs, dust mites, and allergens from every angle. Choose an encasement if bed bug protection is a priority; a standard protector is sufficient for stain and spill protection.

Best Mattress Protectors at LA Mattress Stores

Our top mattress protector picks for every need:

• Waterproof Fitted Protectors — Breathable waterproof membrane with soft cotton terry surface. Our most popular option — effective, comfortable, and machine washable.
• Cooling Mattress Protectors — Tencel™ or bamboo-derived fabric with moisture-wicking properties and waterproof backing. Ideal for hot sleepers who want protection without added heat.
• Mattress Encasements — Full six-sided zippered protection for complete allergen and bed bug prevention. Essential for allergy sufferers and multi-family housing.
• Premium Protectors with Warranty — High-end protectors that include their own stain-coverage warranty. If a stain gets through, the protector manufacturer replaces both the protector and covers the mattress.

Ask about mattress protector bundle deals when purchasing a new mattress — we often include protectors at discounted prices with mattress purchases.

Mattress Protector FAQ

Do I really need a mattress protector?

Yes — a mattress protector is the most important accessory for any mattress. Without one, your mattress is exposed to spills, sweat, body oils, allergens, and dust mites that accumulate over time and cannot be removed. A protector also preserves your mattress warranty, which most manufacturers void if stains are present. For a $30–$100 investment, you protect a mattress worth $500–$5,000+.

Will a waterproof protector make my mattress hot?

Not if you choose a quality product. Modern waterproof mattress protectors use thin polyurethane membranes that are breathable — blocking liquids while allowing air and moisture vapor to pass through. Cheap vinyl or PVC protectors can feel hot and crinkly. The protectors we carry at LA Mattress Stores use premium breathable waterproof technology that won't affect your sleep temperature.

How often should I wash my mattress protector?

Wash your mattress protector every 1–2 months under normal conditions, or immediately after any spill or accident. Use warm water and a gentle cycle, and tumble dry on low heat. Avoid bleach and high heat, which can damage the waterproof membrane. Regular washing keeps the protector fresh and maintains its protective properties.

Can a mattress protector change how my mattress feels?

A quality mattress protector is thin enough to be virtually unnoticeable — it shouldn't change the feel of your mattress. Premium protectors with soft cotton terry or Tencel™ surfaces may actually add a slight softness. Avoid overly thick or rigid protectors that can alter the mattress feel. The protectors we carry at LA Mattress Stores are specifically chosen to be transparent to your mattress's comfort.

Shop Mattress Protectors Near You at Our 5 Los Angeles Locations

Finding the best mattress protector near me in Los Angeles is easy with five LA Mattress Stores showrooms across the city. Our sleep experts will help you choose the right protector for your mattress type, size, and specific needs — whether you need waterproof protection, cooling properties, or allergen control.

• Glendale (Central Ave) — Conveniently located for Burbank, Eagle Rock, and Pasadena residents
• Studio City (Ventura Blvd) — Serving the San Fernando Valley, Sherman Oaks, and North Hollywood
• West Los Angeles (Pico Blvd) — Easy access from Santa Monica, Westwood, Beverly Hills, and Culver City
• La Brea (Hancock Park) — Central LA location near Mid-Wilshire, Fairfax, and Hollywood
• Koreatown (Western Ave) — Serving Koreatown, Downtown LA, and surrounding neighborhoods

Every mattress protector purchase includes our satisfaction guarantee. Bundle a protector with any mattress for special pricing, plus enjoy free white glove delivery, a 120-night comfort trial, and 0% APR financing on your mattress purchase. Visit us today or shop our complete mattress protector collection online.