“Do I Really Need a Mattress Protector?” All Your Protector Questions, Answered.

If you’ve ever wondered whether a mattress protector is actually necessary, you’re not alone. A lesser-understood layer in the bedding world, it often gets overlooked until—‘oh, sheet!’—you realize you need one. 

Midnight snack spills (anyone else love eating in bed?), kids’ accidents, and morning coffee hijinks happen, and so does natural wear and tear on your bedding, mattress, and pillows. Protectors are designed to shield you from all of the above. But are they comfortable? Hypoallergenic? Waterproof?

In this guide, we’re answering all your most common questions on protectors:

1. Do I really need a mattress protector?

Yes! Mattress protectors help keep spills and sweat away from your bed, which keeps it cleaner for longer. When you choose sheeting and a protector made from consistent materials, they also minimize the friction between your sheeting and your mattress to protect your bedding from wear and tear.

2. What about pillow protectors?

Pillow protectors do the same thing, but for your pillow! They also minimize discoloration over time and offer another layer of comfort. 

3. What’s the difference between mattress protectors and mattress toppers?

As their name implies, mattress protectors act as a shield between your bedding and your mattress, whereas mattress toppers (or ‘pads’) are designed to add a layer of personalized comfort. 

For example, a sleeper may use a wool mattress pad for added warmth and cushioning, or a silk protector for cooling and allergy protection.

4. Are mattress and pillow protectors waterproof?

Some protectors like our polyester velvet SureRest Waterproof Mattress Protector are fully waterproof, but others are simply water-resistant. Different protectors are designed for different uses, which depend on their material and backing. 

5. Can protectors help with allergies?

Yes—many protectors act as a barrier against dust mites, bacteria, and other allergens. Look for a protector made of silk or bamboo that’s designed to keep you cool and wick away sweat, as allergens thrive in moist environments. 

6. Will protectors make my bed feel less comfortable?

Good ones shouldn’t. They are designed to be breathable and soft so you don’t notice them, and some even have cushioned fills that make your bed even cozier!

7. Do they make noise (like crinkly plastic)?

Lower-quality protectors can be a little noisy, but modern protectors are usually quiet and fabric-like, crafted from materials like cotton, soft polyester, or silk.

8. Are they breathable?

Quality protectors are made to be breathable and moisture-wicking to help regulate your temperature. Our most breathable option is our Silk Filled Mattress Protector, with a 100% pure mulberry silk floss fill and cotton shell that offers thorough air circulation between your sheets and your mattress.

9. How do I wash a mattress protector?

QE Home mattress protectors are machine washable and dryable. In general we recommend using a commercial washing machine with cold water on a gentle cycle with non-detergent liquid soap. Then tumble dry your protectors with QE Home Wool Dryer Balls to reduce wrinkles and increase drying efficiency. 

Always make sure to follow the instructions for your specific protector when caring for it.

10. How often should I wash my protectors?

At least once every 1 – 2 months, or more often if there are spills, allergies, or pets involved.

11. Will mattress protectors fit under my fitted sheet?

High-quality fitted sheets are designed to accommodate for extra layers like toppers or protectors, so they should fit no problem. QE Home fitted sheets have a generous 17” drop for this very reason.

12. Will protectors change the look of my bed?

Not really. Protectors sit under your sheets, so they’re mostly invisible. Although certain materials and fillings add some volume and may give your bed a slightly more cushioned look!

We hope this guide has helped you better understand mattress and pillow protectors, all they can help with, and how to take care of them. If you need more help deciding on the protector for you, come visit one of our 75+ stores across Canada to speak with a sleep expert.