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Best Mattress Encasements of 2024
A new mattress is an investment and an essential part of your everyday life. A mattress encasement can help you get the most out of your mattress by preventing the buildup of dust mites, allergens, and other irritants.
When it comes to mattress encasements and protectors, there is a sizable selection on the market, and choosing the best one for you may seem overwhelming. Some are designed specifically to reduce your exposure to allergens or resist bed bugs, while others feature waterproof elements to prevent spills from seeping into your mattress.
We’ll highlight some of the best mattress encasements, based on extensive product research, testing, and verified customer feedback. We’ll also explain what to look for when shopping for a mattress encasement, and how to select one that suits your individual needs.
The Best Mattress Encasements
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Best Overall
Bear Encasement
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Best Value
Layla Full Encasement Mattress Protector
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Best Cooling
Brooklyn Bedding Mattress Encasement
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Softest
The Company Store Cotton Waterproof Mattress Protector
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Best for Deep Mattresses
Linens & Hutch 6-Sided Mattress Encasement
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In-Depth Reviews
The Bear Encasement is a top-notch choice if you’re looking to fully protect your mattress from all manner of contaminant, whether it’s spills or dust mites. A reasonable price and machine-washable care add to the appeal.
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Pros
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Waterproof barrier protects your mattress from stains and liquid damage
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Pocket depth range covers most mattresses sold today
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Jersey-knit fabric is soft and breathable
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Cons
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May not fit mattresses with a very thick profile
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Polyester may not be as breathable as cotton encasements
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Price
$125
Material
100% Knit Polyester
The Bear Encasement is affordable, durable, and effective at safeguarding your mattress from different types of damage. Six-sided coverage with a wraparound zipper ensures minimal entry points for bed bugs, dust mites, and other contaminants. The encasement is also equipped with a waterproof barrier to protect against water, urine, and other liquids that can permanently damage your mattress.
Jersey-knit fabric gives the encasement a soft hand-feel and also makes it fairly breathable, making it a good choice for those who tend to feel overly hot with waterproof protectors. The fabric also has a fair amount of stretch to keep the material smooth and taut, which prevents wrinkles from producing wrinkles that make your sleep surface feel uneven. This elasticity also allows you to use the encasement on mattresses with profiles between 10 and 15 inches, a range that encompasses most models sold today. You can wash and dry the encasement in any household machine.
The Bear Encasement is reasonably priced and shipping is free of charge for all orders in the contiguous U.S. You can return the encasement within 30 days of the delivery date. If you decide to keep it, Bear backs your purchase with a manufacturer’s warranty covering material defects for up to 10 years.
Best Value
Layla Full Encasement Mattress Protector
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The Layla Full Encasement Protector is a great value, considering all it has to offer. The waterproof design protects against spills and accidents, and the zippered enclosure helps keep the encasement in place.
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Pros
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Breathable composition offers waterproof protection without retaining too much heat
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Above-average pocket depth can accommodate some high-profile mattresses
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30-night sleep trial and 1-year warranty
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Cons
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Pocket depth is too shallow for mattresses over 14 inches tall
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Must try the mattress pad for at least two weeks in order to be eligible for a refund
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Price
$134
Material
Polyester and waterproof polyurethane membrane
A common complaint about mattress encasements is that they absorb and trap heat, warming the sleep surface to an uncomfortable degree. This is usually attributed to the polyurethane membranes used for waterproofing. The Layla Full Encasement Mattress Protector combats heat retention with a 140 GSM polyester composition that makes it more breathable than many competing protectors. The encasement still repels liquid effectively, and can also be used to keep bed bugs out of your sleep area.
A pocket depth of 14 inches allows you to use the encasement with a wide range of mattresses, including many high-profile models that are not compatible with standard protectors. Overlocking corners help secure the elastic band and prevent bunching during the night. You may wash and dry the encasement in any household machine.
The Full Encasement Mattress Protector is competitively priced and shipping is free for all orders within the contiguous U.S. Layla backs each purchase with a 30-night trial and a 1-year warranty against structural defects.
Best Cooling
Brooklyn Bedding Mattress Encasement
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The Brooklyn Bedding Mattress Encasement has a knit polyester shell that feels soft to the touch, with a membrane designed to keep moisture from contaminating your mattress. It’s a well-rounded design for shoppers prioritizing comfort.
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Pros
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Waterproof membrane protects your mattress from spills and liquid damage
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Breathable knit fabric promotes air circulation and resists overheating
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Fully machine-washable for quick and easy care
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Cons
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Can only fit beds up to 13 inches thick
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May produce minor crinkling sound
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Price
$99
Material
Polyester
Waterproof mattress encasements tend to sleep hot, as the membrane material used to repel liquid can absorb and trap heat during the night. The Brooklyn Bedding Mattress Encasement mitigates this issue thanks to its fabrication. A knit polyester shell promotes airflow to help you stay cool and comfortable while you sleep, but the encasement’s waterproof membrane still protects your mattress from spills, stains, and liquid damage. The protector is particularly well suited to children who frequently wet the bed and adults with incontinence.
The encasement has elasticated edges designed to fit snugly over the corner of your mattress. A pocket depth of 13 inches makes the protector compatible with most mattresses sold today, but we recommend measuring your bed just in case. You can wash and dry the encasement in any household machine. Simply wash in cold water, then tumble dry on low heat. The fabric is designed to resist shrinkage. You can choose from six sizes, all of which correspond to standard mattress dimensions.
The Mattress Encasement carries an approachable price-point and Brooklyn Bedding offers free standard shipping anywhere in the contiguous U.S. Your order comes with a sleep trial spanning 30 nights in length. Should you decide to keep the encasement after the trial period ends, you’ll also receive a 3-year warranty against material defects.
Softest
The Company Store Company Cotton Waterproof Mattress Protector
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The Company Store Cotton Waterproof Mattress Protector stands out from competing protectors thanks to its cotton composition. The percale-woven cotton is soft to the touch and breathable — and it does a great job of waterproofing your bed.
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Pros
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Crisp cotton percale allows the protector to sleep cool
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Available in three pocket depths
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Waterproof membrane protects the mattress without producing much noise
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Cons
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Must pay a small shipping fee for returns
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Those sensitive to noise may notice minor crinkling
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Price
$95
Material
Waterproof laminate
Effective mattress encasements can be somewhat coarse, especially if they include waterproofing materials. The Company Store’s Cotton Waterproof Mattress Protector is an exception to this rule. The shell is made of pure cotton in a percale weave, an initially crisp fabric that gradually softens over time as the fibers relax. This weave also promotes air circulation, so the encasement shouldn’t trap excessive amounts of body heat.
The Company Store offers the protector in pocket depths of 9, 12, and 16 inches. This range covers the vast majority of mattresses sold today, ensuring a proper fit no matter how thick your current bed is. You can wash and dry the protector in any household appliance whenever a cleaning is needed. Simply wash in cold water on a gentle cycle, then tumble dry on low heat. Six sizes are available.
The Cotton Waterproof Mattress Protector is reasonably priced and ground delivery is free for all customers in the contiguous U.S. Your purchase also includes a sleep trial that runs for 90 nights. If you aren’t satisfied with the protector, The Company Store issues a full refund and covers the cost of return shipping.
Best for Deep Mattresses
Linens & Hutch 6-Sided Mattress Encasement
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Most mattress encasements are designed to fit beds with a low or average profile, but the Linens & Hutch 6-Sided Mattress Encasement has a generous pocket depth of 18 inches that can accommodate pretty much any mattress on the market.
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Pros
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Microfiber fabric is soft, breathable, and wrinkle-resistant
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Waterproof design protects the mattress from liquid damage
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Generous depth of 18 inches
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Cons
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Design is water-resistant but not waterproof
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Cannot accommodate beds over 14 inches thick
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Price
$96
Material
Polyester, Waterproof Polyurethane Membrane
Many encasements sold today offer limited depth, meaning they are only compatible with low- or medium-profile mattresses. The 6-Sided Mattress Encasement from Linens & Hutch is a notable exception. With a depth of 18 inches, the encasement will fit the vast majority of mattresses sold today, including luxury pillow-tops and other exceptionally tall models. The microfiber fabric is stretchy enough to accommodate mattresses with lower profiles, as well.
The microfiber fabric won’t squeak or crinkle when you move on the mattress, making the encasement quieter and less disruptive to sleep than most protectors made of plastic. This material also has a smooth feel and doesn’t significantly change how your sleep surface feels. A waterproof membrane provides full protection against liquid damage from spills and bedwetting episodes.
The encasement is available in six sizes that correspond with standard mattress dimensions. A micro-zipper closure allows you to apply and remove the encasement with relative ease, and also forms a tight seal to stave off bacteria, bed bugs, dust mites, and other contaminants. You can launder the encasement in any household machine. Machine wash in cold water, then tumble dry on low heat. The microfiber is wrinkle-resistant, so you should never need to iron the encasement.
The 6-Sided Mattress Encasement is reasonably priced compared to other waterproof encasements. Linens & Hutch permits returns for any reason within 101 nights of the purchase date.
What is a Mattress Encasement?
A mattress encasement is a six-sided barrier that completely covers every part of your mattress. The purpose of a mattress encasement is to protect your mattress from contaminants, including moisture, mildew, mold, pet dander, and dust mites.
The difference between a mattress encasement and a mattress protector, which performs a similar function, is that a mattress encasement covers the entire mattress, including the underside. This provides full coverage against contaminants. A mattress protector, which may also be called a mattress cover, is usually five-sided and is applied to the bed like a fitted sheet. Its main purpose is to protect the mattress surface from spills or stains.
It is important to note that mattress protectors and mattress encasements differ from mattress pads and mattress toppers. Mattress pads and mattress toppers are primarily added to adjust the comfort or firmness of the mattress, rather than to protect against contaminants.
How to Choose a Mattress Encasement
Once you have decided that a mattress encasement is right for you, there are several factors to consider before making a purchase. Though mattress encasements serve the same primary purpose, they differ when it comes to fit, price, waterproofing, and other characteristics. We’ll highlight these differences to help you choose a mattress encasement that suits your needs.
What to Consider When Purchasing a Mattress Encasement
Focusing on the following factors when shopping for a mattress encasement will help you narrow down your search. Mattress companies have a tendency to use buzzwords to market their products, which may not tell you what you need to know before making a purchase. Knowing what to look for will help ensure that the product you’re considering matches your individual needs, as different encasements may be better for certain mattresses and situations.
Whether you are shopping online or at a brick-and-mortar location, product information should be readily available. There are several essential qualities to consider, including the fit, waterproofing, noise potential, and quality of materials. We’ll break down these and other important elements to keep in mind when shopping.
Waterproofing
One of the main purposes of a mattress encasement is to keep moisture, including spills, sweat, and other liquids, off of the mattress. This can help prevent stains, mold, and mildew.
Many mattress encasements are waterproof or water-resistant. These types of encasements may appeal to shoppers who want to protect their mattresses from sweat, urine, or humidity. Some encasements are designed to wick away moisture or repel water without being fully waterproof.
The type of waterproofing used will determine how effective the encasement is at preventing water damage to the mattress. Waterproof encasements may include polyurethane membranes or liners for more complete protection.
Price
Like all products, mattress encasements come in a range of prices, depending on factors like size and type of material. Encasements with waterproofing or other features may be more expensive than models with simple fabrications.
Noise
Most mattress encasements are made with polyester or cotton, which are typically silent. Some waterproofing materials can cause a rustling or crinkling noise, which may be bothersome to sleepers.
When shopping for a mattress encasement in-store, you may be able to feel the fabric prior to purchasing to see if it makes a rustling noise. If you are shopping online, customer reviews often provide insight into any noise the encasement makes when the user is moving around on it.
Quality Materials
The materials used to make a mattress encasement affect its performance and durability. Mattress encasements can be made out of a wide variety of materials. The most popular ones include:
- Cotton: Cotton is a natural fiber that is soft, breathable, and absorbent. Tighter weave patterns, such as percale, may be more suitable for acting as a barrier to allergens and other contaminants.
- Polyester: This common synthetic fabric is easy to clean, which helps prevent the buildup of allergens. It is also moisture-wicking and durable. Though it may not be as breathable as cotton, it is less permeable, which can make it more effective as a barrier.
- Lyocell: Lyocell is a specific type of rayon derived from wood pulp, which is then further treated. It is soft to the touch, moisture-wicking, and sleeps cool, but it may be more expensive than cotton or polyester options.
Ease of Care
To prevent stains or the buildup of allergens, mattress encasements will likely need to be cleaned regularly. A couple of factors will indicate how easy it is to care for a particular mattress encasement, including how easy it is to remove and how easy it is to clean.
Almost all encasements include a zipper closure to make removal and application easier. Some mattresses are quite heavy, which could potentially make an encasement harder to remove. Depending on the encasement and the size of your mattress, it may take two people to remove the encasement for cleaning.
Most washable encasements have relatively simple cleaning instructions. Many of them are machine-washable, and can be tumble dried with low or no heat.
That said, some encasements have specific care requirements to protect the fabric or waterproofing elements. These may include specific temperatures or settings when using the washing machine or dryer. Following the care instructions from the manufacturer will help keep the encasement from losing effectiveness.
Before purchasing an encasement, look into the specific cleaning instructions and make sure the required care regimen suits your needs.
Fit
Most mattress encasements are produced in standard mattress sizes, from twin to California king. Most will also accommodate mattresses with standard profiles, up to 12 inches thick. Shoppers with low- or high-profile mattresses will want to confirm that the pocket depth of the encasement will fit the mattress comfortably.
If you have an adjustable bed, you may also want to consider whether or not the encasement is flexible enough to move along with it. Some encasements are designed with additional stretch to accommodate the different positions of an adjustable bed.
What Are the Benefits of a Mattress Encasement?
There are several benefits of a mattress encasement, as it can be used to protect your mattress from damage and help prevent wear and tear. We’ll highlight the main benefits of this type of bedding to help you decide if a mattress encasement is right for you.
Prevents Damage to the Mattress: One of the main purposes of a mattress encasement is to protect the mattress from things that might damage it, such as moisture, liquids, and dust mites. This helps your mattress maintain its structural integrity, and reduces your exposure to contaminants.
Increases the Lifespan of the Mattress: By preventing damage, an encasement may increase the lifespan of the mattress. A new mattress is often a large investment, and protecting it from wear and tear can prevent needing to replace it prematurely.
Prevents the Buildup of Allergens: Those who suffer from allergies, chemical sensitivities, or mold sensitivities know how essential it is to keep the sleeping area free of irritants and allergens. Exposure to elements that trigger allergies and/or sensitivities can negatively impact sleep quality. Mattress encasements are one of the best lines of defense against allergen and irritant buildup, especially when cleaned and maintained as recommended.
Helps Protect Against Bed Bugs: Mattress encasements are one of the best preventative measures you can take against a bed bug infestation. It makes the mattress less hospitable to bed bugs, making an infestation less likely.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mattress Encasements
Mattress encasements generally come with specific installation instructions, but most have a zipper to make application easier. Generally, a mattress encasement is installed on a bare mattress that has been stripped of all bedding and additional mattress pads, toppers, or other accessories. You’ll probably have to lift your mattress in order to get the encasement on correctly. Follow the instructions for your specific mattress encasement in order to install it properly.
Mattress encasements are available for sale in most places where mattresses, bedding, and bedroom accessories are sold, in-store and online. Some mattress companies offer bundle discounts for purchasing a mattress and mattress encasement together. Since sizing is generally standardized, you do not have to purchase an encasement from the same company that manufactured your mattress.
A box spring encasement is a different product than a mattress encasement. The main difference between a mattress encasement and a box spring encasement is that box spring encasements tend to accommodate lower profiles, usually 6 to 9 inches thick. Mattress encasements tend to be larger to fit mattresses ranging from 6 to 18 inches thick.
Additionally, box spring encasements are usually made from rougher, less finished materials, though they are often similarly waterproofed and treated.
It is recommended that you use an encasement for your box spring in addition to an encasement for your mattress, particularly if you suffer from allergies or other sensitivities.
Some mattress encasements protect against bed bugs. These encasements are designed to keep bed bugs from nesting in and infesting mattresses. When it comes to existing infestations, sealing a mattress in a high-quality, low-ventilation encasement is often recommended after a treatment to eliminate any remaining bed bugs and prevent them from escaping.
If bed bugs are a major concern, an encasement provides additional peace of mind and protection against infestation.
Most mattress encasements are removable and machine-washable, but take care to follow any guidelines or cleaning instructions provided by the manufacturer. Washable models should be cleaned regularly to prevent the buildup of allergens and bacteria. Depending on the model, they can usually be machine washed in cold or warm water, and then tumble dried on low, preferably with other bedding. Most mattress encasements can be spot cleaned or vacuumed as needed between washes.
Generally, mattress encasements should not be washed with harsh cleaners, dry cleaned, or ironed. These laundering methods can damage the fibers of the encasement, reducing its effectiveness, durability, and softness. In addition to potentially damaging the product, using these methods will often void the warranty of a mattress encasement.
Rather than assume a mattress encasement is machine-washable, make sure to check the available instructions and follow them as you clean the encasement. Cleaning instructions for specific mattress encasements can usually be found on the bedding tags, packaging, or product website.
Still have questions?
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Send an email to [email protected] with your questions and we’ll help you find exactly what you’re looking for.
Jackson leads editorial product recommendations at Sleep Foundation, transforming the data from our sleep product test lab into real world takeaways for consumers. He has spent over half a decade developing protocol to evaluate and measure the impacts of products on sleep quality. As a cited sleep product expert, Jackson helps guide millions of shoppers to find personalized recommendations for everything from pillows to bedding to mattresses.