Mattress protectors are one of the simplest and cheapest ways to protect an expensive mattress. The best mattress protectors in the UK help prevent sweat, spills and everyday wear from damaging the mattress underneath, while also making it much easier to keep your bed clean.
A good mattress protector acts as a removable barrier between you and the mattress. Instead of moisture, dust and skin oils gradually building up inside the mattress itself, they are absorbed by the protector, which can be removed and washed regularly.
There are several different types of mattress protector available in the UK, including waterproof mattress protectors, breathable cotton mattress protectors and extra deep mattress protectors designed for thicker modern mattresses.
Waterproof mattress protectors include a backing layer made from a synthetic material such as polyurethane. This prevents liquids from reaching the mattress and is particularly useful for children’s beds, guest beds or households with pets.
Non-waterproof mattress protectors do not include this waterproof layer but still protect the mattress from sweat and general wear. Many people prefer them because they are often more breathable and comfortable.
Another important factor when buying a mattress protector is mattress depth. Standard mattresses are usually around 20–25cm deep, but many modern hybrid or pillow-top mattresses can reach 35–40cm. Choosing a mattress protector that is deep enough prevents it slipping off the corners of the mattress.
If you’re also choosing a new bed, you may want to read our guide to the best mattresses in the UK, which compares some of the most popular mattresses currently available.
In this guide we compare the best mattress protectors available in the UK for 2026, including waterproof mattress protectors, breathable cotton protectors and extra deep mattress protectors designed for thicker mattresses.
Best Mattress Protectors UK: Quick Picks
Best waterproof mattress protector
M&S Pure Cotton Waterproof Mattress Protector
Best breathable mattress protector
John Lewis Quilted Cotton Mattress Protector
Best cheap waterproof mattress protector
Silentnight Waterproof Mattress Protector
Best cooling waterproof mattress protector
Coolmax Waterproof Mattress Protector
Best extra deep mattress protector
Soak & Sleep Luxury Quilted Cotton Extra Deep Mattress Protector
Quick Comparison: Best Mattress Protectors in the UK
| Mattress protector | Waterproof | Material | Max mattress depth | Best for | Approx price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| M&S Pure Cotton Waterproof | Yes | Cotton top + waterproof backing | 38cm | Best waterproof option | £25 |
| John Lewis Quilted Cotton | No | Cotton | 35cm | Best breathable protector | £40 |
| Silentnight Waterproof | Yes | Synthetic | 30cm | Best budget waterproof protector | £15 |
| Coolmax Waterproof | Yes | Synthetic cooling fabric | 35cm | Best for hot sleepers | £50 |
| Soak & Sleep Luxury Quilted Cotton | No | Cotton with polyester base | 40cm | Best for deep mattresses | £35 |
Types of Mattress Protectors
Although mattress protectors might look similar, they actually come in several different types.
Waterproof mattress protectors
Waterproof mattress protectors include a protective backing layer designed to stop liquids reaching the mattress. This layer is usually made from polyurethane or another synthetic material.
They are the best choice if you want protection from:
• children’s accidents
• spilled drinks
• pets
• general moisture damage
The downside is that waterproof protectors can sometimes reduce breathability slightly compared with pure cotton protectors.
Non-waterproof mattress protectors
Non-waterproof mattress protectors focus on comfort and breathability rather than full waterproof protection.
They still help protect the mattress from sweat, skin oils and dust, but they will not stop larger liquid spills.
For most adult bedrooms, these are often the most comfortable choice.
Cooling mattress protectors
Cooling mattress protectors are designed to reduce overheating. They often use synthetic fabrics designed to wick away moisture or improve airflow.
These can be useful for people who tend to sleep hot but still want waterproof protection.
Mattress encasement protectors
Some protectors completely zip around the mattress. These are known as mattress encasements.
They are often used for allergy protection or bed bug prevention, but they are less common for everyday use.
How to Choose a Mattress Protector
When comparing mattress protectors there are several key factors worth considering.
Material
The most common materials are cotton and synthetic fibres such as polyester or microfibre. Cotton mattress protectors are usually more breathable and comfortable, while synthetic protectors tend to be cheaper and easier to wash.
Waterproof protection
If you need protection from spills or accidents, a waterproof mattress protector is the safest choice. These usually include a polyurethane backing layer that prevents liquids from reaching the mattress.
Breathability
For adults who do not need waterproof protection, a breathable cotton mattress protector is often the most comfortable option because natural fibres allow better airflow.
Mattress depth
Always check the maximum mattress depth listed by the manufacturer. Many modern mattresses are deeper than older models, particularly hybrid mattresses and those with pillow-top layers.
Ease of washing
Most mattress protectors can be machine washed, but some materials cope better with frequent washing than others. Synthetic protectors are often used in hotels because they tend to shrink less and wrinkle less than cotton.
How We Chose the Best Mattress Protectors
We selected the mattress protectors in this guide based on several factors.
Customer reviews were an important factor. Products with large numbers of positive reviews generally offer more reliable real-world feedback.
Material quality also matters. Cotton protectors tend to be more breathable, while synthetic protectors are usually cheaper and easier to wash.
Mattress depth was another consideration because many modern mattresses require deeper fitted protectors.
Finally, we considered brand reputation and overall value for money.
What Depth Mattress Protector Do You Need?
Mattress depth is one of the most common mistakes people make when buying a mattress protector.
Typical mattress depths are:
Standard mattresses
20–25cm
Deep mattresses
25–30cm
Extra deep mattresses
30–40cm
Many modern mattresses include thicker comfort layers or built-in pillow-top designs. These can make the mattress significantly deeper than older models.
If a mattress protector is too shallow it will constantly slip off the corners of the mattress. This can make changing bedding frustrating and often results in the protector gradually wearing out more quickly.
A useful rule of thumb is to choose a protector that is slightly deeper than the mattress itself. For example, if your mattress measures around 25cm deep, a protector designed for 30cm mattresses will usually fit comfortably.
For thicker mattresses or mattresses combined with toppers, extra deep mattress protectors designed for 35–40cm mattresses are often the safest option.
If your sheets constantly come loose when changing the bed, you may also want to read our guide to the best fitted sheets in the UK, which compares fitted sheets designed for both standard and deep mattresses.
The Best Mattress Protectors in the UK
M&S Pure Cotton Waterproof Mattress Protector
Approximate price: £26
This waterproof mattress protector from Marks & Spencer is one of the best value waterproof mattress protectors available in the UK.
The key advantage is that it combines a cotton upper layer with a waterproof backing layer. This design provides protection from spills while still maintaining a relatively comfortable sleeping surface.
Many cheap waterproof mattress protectors are made almost entirely from synthetic materials, which can make them feel slightly plasticky or uncomfortable. By using cotton on the top surface, this protector avoids many of those issues.
The waterproof layer is made from polyurethane and polyester. These materials prevent liquids from reaching the mattress, which makes the protector useful for children’s beds, guest beds or households with pets.
Another advantage is the depth. The protector is designed for mattresses up to around 38cm deep, which means it works well with many modern mattresses including pillow-top models.
Marks & Spencer has long been one of the most trusted bedding retailers in the UK, and their bedding ranges usually receive consistently strong customer feedback.
Although this protector is not the cheapest waterproof option on the market, it offers a good balance between comfort, protection and price.
Who should buy this mattress protector
This mattress protector is a good choice for buyers who want reliable waterproof protection without sacrificing too much comfort. The cotton surface helps reduce the plasticky feel that some cheaper waterproof mattress protectors can have, while the waterproof backing protects the mattress from spills and accidents.
It is particularly suitable for children’s beds, guest rooms or households with pets where waterproof protection is important. The deeper 38cm fit also makes it a practical option for modern mattresses that are thicker than older designs.
Pros
• waterproof protection
• cotton top layer improves comfort
• suitable for deep mattresses up to 38cm
• trusted retailer
• machine washable
Cons
• synthetic waterproof backing reduces breathability slightly
• only available as a deep version
John Lewis Quilted Cotton Mattress Protector
Approximate price: £39.50
If you do not need waterproof protection and prefer something breathable, this cotton mattress protector from John Lewis is one of the safest choices on the market.
Unlike waterproof protectors, this design focuses on comfort rather than liquid protection. The surface layer is made from cotton, which helps improve airflow and reduces the chance of overheating during the night.
Cotton mattress protectors are often recommended for people who tend to sleep hot because natural fibres generally allow better air circulation than synthetic materials.
This protector is quilted, which adds a small amount of cushioning while also helping the protector stay evenly distributed across the mattress.
The depth is designed for mattresses up to around 35cm, which will fit most modern mattresses comfortably.
Another reason this product stands out is the reputation of John Lewis bedding. The company consistently scores highly in customer satisfaction surveys and its bedding products usually receive strong customer reviews.
The protector is available in a wide range of mattress sizes including single, small double, double, king size and super king.
For buyers who want a breathable mattress protector from a reliable brand, this is one of the best options available.
Who should buy this mattress protector
This mattress protector is best suited for buyers who do not need waterproof protection and want a breathable, comfortable mattress protector made from natural fibres. The cotton construction allows better airflow than synthetic protectors, which can make a noticeable difference for people who tend to sleep hot.
It is a sensible choice for adults who simply want to protect their mattress from sweat, dust and everyday wear while maintaining a comfortable sleeping surface.
Pros
• breathable cotton surface
• comfortable quilted design
• suitable for mattresses up to 35cm deep
• trusted retailer
• available in several sizes
Cons
• not waterproof
• more expensive than synthetic protectors
Silentnight Waterproof Mattress Protector
Approximate price: £16
If you want a cheap waterproof mattress protector from a brand you have actually heard of, the Silentnight waterproof mattress protector is one of the most widely available options in the UK.
Silentnight is the largest mattress manufacturer in the UK, and the company produces a huge range of bedding products including pillows, duvets and mattress protectors. For many buyers that brand recognition provides a bit more reassurance than buying a very cheap product from an unfamiliar brand.
At this price point the protector is made almost entirely from synthetic materials. The waterproof barrier layer prevents liquids from reaching the mattress, which is the main reason most people buy this type of protector.
Waterproof mattress protectors like this are particularly useful for children’s beds, guest bedrooms or rental properties where accidental spills are more likely.
The protector includes a fitted skirt designed for mattresses up to around 30cm deep. This will work well for most standard mattresses, although very thick mattresses with pillow-top layers may require something deeper.
Customer feedback for this protector is generally positive. Review scores are usually around 4.5 out of 5 across large online retailers, which suggests that most buyers find it performs well for the price.
Some reviewers say that the waterproof backing makes the protector feel slightly warmer or a little noisy compared with cotton protectors. This is a common issue with inexpensive waterproof protectors and is worth keeping in mind.
Overall, this Silentnight protector is a practical choice if your main goal is protecting a mattress at the lowest possible price.
Who should buy this mattress protector
This mattress protector is a practical option for buyers who want a cheap waterproof mattress protector from a well-known UK bedding brand. It provides basic waterproof protection and is widely available at a very affordable price.
It is particularly suitable for children’s beds, spare bedrooms or rental properties where protecting the mattress from spills or accidents is the main priority.
Pros
• very affordable
• waterproof protection
• well-known UK bed brand
• machine washable
• widely available
Cons
• less breathable than cotton protectors
• slightly shallower depth than some rivals
• limited size range compared with premium protectors
Coolmax Waterproof Mattress Protector
Approximate price: £48
The Coolmax waterproof mattress protector is designed for people who want waterproof protection but are worried about overheating during the night.
One of the most common complaints about waterproof mattress protectors is that the waterproof layer can reduce airflow and make the bed feel warmer. Cooling protectors such as this one attempt to solve that problem.
The protector uses a synthetic fabric designed to wick moisture away from the body. This helps improve temperature regulation compared with traditional waterproof protectors.
While it is still not as breathable as a completely natural cotton protector, many people find cooling-style waterproof protectors noticeably more comfortable than the cheapest waterproof designs.
Another advantage of this protector is its depth. It fits mattresses up to around 35cm deep, which is suitable for most modern mattresses including thicker hybrid designs.
Size options are also better than average. In addition to the usual single, double, king size and super king sizes, the protector is also available in less common sizes such as emperor and small double.
This protector is sold by Soak & Sleep, which is a specialist bedding retailer that consistently receives strong customer reviews. On Trustpilot the company typically scores around 4.7 out of 5 from thousands of reviews.
Customer feedback for the protector itself is also very strong, often averaging around 4.8 out of 5.
Although this protector is more expensive than the basic waterproof options in this guide, it is a sensible upgrade if you want waterproof protection without sacrificing too much comfort.
Who should buy this mattress protector
This mattress protector is a good option for buyers who want waterproof protection but are concerned about overheating during the night. The cooling fabric is designed to wick moisture away from the body and improve airflow compared with traditional waterproof protectors.
It is particularly suitable for people who tend to sleep hot but still want the security of a waterproof mattress protector.
Pros
• waterproof protection
• cooling fabric helps reduce overheating
• suitable for mattresses up to 35cm deep
• wide range of sizes including emperor
• strong customer reviews
Cons
• more expensive than basic waterproof protectors
• synthetic materials still less breathable than cotton
Soak & Sleep Luxury Quilted Cotton Extra Deep Mattress Protector
Approximate price: £36
If your main concern is mattress depth rather than waterproofing, this extra deep mattress protector from Soak & Sleep is one of the best options available in the UK.
Modern mattresses are often significantly thicker than older models. Hybrid mattresses, pillow-top mattresses and mattresses used with toppers can easily reach 35–40cm in depth. Standard mattress protectors are often not deep enough for these mattresses.
This protector is designed specifically to solve that problem. It fits mattresses up to around 40cm deep, which makes it suitable for many of the thickest mattresses currently available.
The surface layer is made from cotton, which improves breathability compared with synthetic protectors. This can make a noticeable difference for people who tend to get hot during the night.
The protector is quilted, which adds a small amount of cushioning and helps keep the filling evenly distributed across the mattress.
Unlike waterproof protectors, this model is designed primarily to protect the mattress from sweat, dust and everyday wear rather than large liquid spills.
Soak & Sleep has built a strong reputation as a specialist bedding retailer. The company focuses almost entirely on sleep products such as duvets, pillows and bedding, and it frequently receives excellent customer feedback.
Customer reviews for this particular protector are extremely strong, averaging around 4.8 out of 5 from hundreds of buyers.
For people with thick mattresses, this protector is one of the most practical options available.
Who should buy this mattress protector
This mattress protector is best suited for people with thicker mattresses who struggle to find protectors deep enough to fit properly. With a maximum depth of around 40cm, it works well with many hybrid mattresses, pillow-top mattresses or mattresses used with toppers.
It is also a good option for buyers who want a breathable cotton mattress protector rather than a waterproof design.
Pros
• fits mattresses up to 40cm deep
• breathable cotton surface
• quilted design adds comfort
• available in several sizes including emperor
• excellent customer reviews
Cons
• not waterproof
• slightly more expensive than basic protectors
Mattress Protector Materials Explained
The material used in a mattress protector can have a significant impact on comfort, breathability and durability.
Cotton mattress protectors are generally the most breathable option. Natural fibres allow air to circulate more freely, which helps regulate temperature during sleep. For many people this makes cotton protectors more comfortable than synthetic alternatives.
Synthetic mattress protectors are usually made from polyester or microfibre. These materials tend to be cheaper and more resistant to wrinkles or shrinkage. They also cope well with frequent washing, which is why hotels often use synthetic bedding.
Waterproof mattress protectors usually combine multiple materials. The top surface may be cotton or polyester, while the backing layer is typically polyurethane or another synthetic waterproof material.
This waterproof layer prevents liquids from reaching the mattress, but it can slightly reduce breathability compared with pure cotton protectors.
For most adults, a cotton mattress protector offers the best balance between comfort and protection. For households with children or pets, waterproof protectors are often the safer choice.
If you’re upgrading several parts of your bedding at the same time, you may also want to compare our guide to the best bedding sets in the UK, which covers breathable cotton duvet covers and other popular bedding options.
Mattress Protector vs Mattress Topper
Mattress protectors and mattress toppers are often confused, but they serve very different purposes.
A mattress protector is designed to protect the mattress from spills, sweat and general wear. It is usually very thin and should not noticeably change the feel of the mattress.
A mattress topper is a thicker comfort layer that sits on top of the mattress. Toppers are designed to change the firmness or comfort level of the bed rather than protect it.
Some people use both. In that case the topper sits directly on the mattress, and the mattress protector sits over the topper to keep everything clean.
Research on Bedding Materials
Researchers have studied how different bedding materials affect comfort and sleep quality.
A study by Chanda, Ahirwar and Behera titled Appraisal of Bed Linen Performance with Respect to Sleep Quality examined how various fabrics performed when used as bedding materials.
Participants evaluated fabrics based on factors such as comfort, softness, appearance and overall sleep experience.
The study highlighted the importance of fabric weight, often measured using GSM (grams per square metre). Higher GSM fabrics tend to feel thicker and more plush.
However, GSM information is not always provided by bedding retailers, which means consumers often rely on thread count and material descriptions instead.
The research also found that natural fibres such as cotton generally performed well in comfort assessments compared with fully synthetic materials.
This helps explain why many bedding guides recommend cotton products for comfort and breathability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you really need a mattress protector?
For most people the answer is yes.
Mattresses absorb sweat, skin oils and dust over time. Without a mattress protector these substances gradually build up inside the mattress itself.
Because mattresses are difficult to clean thoroughly, a removable protector makes it much easier to maintain hygiene.
Considering that many mattresses cost several hundred pounds or more, a relatively inexpensive mattress protector is one of the easiest ways to extend the lifespan of the mattress.
Do waterproof mattress protectors make you hot?
Some waterproof protectors can feel slightly warmer than non-waterproof protectors.
This is because the waterproof backing layer reduces airflow through the fabric. Cheaper waterproof protectors often use thicker synthetic layers that can trap more heat.
Higher quality protectors sometimes use moisture-wicking fabrics designed to improve airflow. Cooling protectors such as Coolmax aim to reduce the overheating problem.
If you tend to sleep hot and do not need waterproof protection, a cotton mattress protector is usually the most breathable option.
If overheating is a common problem for you, it may also help to read our guide to the best summer and winter duvets in the UK, which explains how different duvet materials affect temperature regulation.
What depth mattress protector should I buy?
The correct depth depends on your mattress thickness.
Standard mattresses are usually around 20–25cm deep. Deep mattresses may measure 25–30cm, while pillow-top or hybrid mattresses can reach 35–40cm.
If the protector is too shallow it will constantly slip off the corners of the mattress. Choosing a protector that is slightly deeper than the mattress itself usually makes fitting it much easier.
How often should you wash a mattress protector?
Most mattress protectors should be washed every one to two months.
However, households with children, pets or allergies may prefer to wash protectors more frequently.
Always check the care label before washing, as some materials require lower washing temperatures.
Final Buying Advice
For most people the best mattress protector in the UK depends on whether waterproof protection is required.
If you want reliable waterproof protection, the M&S Pure Cotton Waterproof Mattress Protector offers an excellent balance between comfort and practicality.
If breathability is more important, the John Lewis cotton protector is one of the most comfortable options available.
For buyers with thicker mattresses, the Soak & Sleep extra deep protector is particularly useful because it fits mattresses up to 40cm deep.
Ultimately, a mattress protector is a small purchase that can significantly extend the life of a mattress, making it one of the most practical bedding accessories you can buy.
Do mattress protectors change the feel of a mattress?
Most mattress protectors are designed to be thin enough that they do not noticeably change the feel of the mattress.
Basic fitted mattress protectors usually sit tightly over the mattress and simply act as a protective layer. Because they are relatively thin, most people will not notice a significant difference in firmness.
Quilted mattress protectors can add a small amount of cushioning because they contain a thin layer of padding. However, this effect is usually minor compared with a mattress topper, which is specifically designed to alter the comfort level of a mattress.
If you want to protect your mattress without changing how it feels, a lightweight cotton mattress protector is usually the best choice.
Read more from The Sleep Guy
This guide is part of our wider collection of duvet, pillow and bedding reviews.