Do I need a mattress protector? (The honest answer)

MP UK
2026-04-02T11:34:27+01:00

Do I need a mattress protector? More people ask this than you'd think, and the honest answer is: yes, almost certainly.

Here's why.

Your mattress is one of the most expensive things in your bedroom. Most cost between £300 and £1,500. A mattress protector costs from £8.99. The maths are simple.

What does a mattress protector protect against?

Mattresses absorb more than you realise. Without a protector, your mattress collects:

Sweat and body oils — we lose around half a pint of sweat per night

Dust mites — up to 2 million can live in an unprotected mattress

Dead skin cells

Spills and stains

Allergens that trigger asthma and hay fever

Once a mattress is stained or contaminated, it's nearly impossible to fully clean. A mattress protector creates a barrier you can strip off and wash.

Do you need a waterproof one?

Not always. If you have children, pets or anyone in the house with incontinence, a waterproof mattress protector is essential. For adults only, a quilted or standard protector still adds real protection.

Won't it make the bed uncomfortable?

This is the most common worry. Old-fashioned protectors were crinkly and noisy. Our breathable waterproof mattress protectors are completely silent and add a soft quilted layer rather than taking anything away.

How often should you wash it?

Once a month is ideal. All of ours are machine washable at 60 degrees.

The bottom line

If you've spent good money on a mattress, protecting it costs a fraction of the price and extends its life significantly. Shop our range of UK mattress protectors with free delivery — starting from just £8.99.

Explore our full range of mattress protectors with free UK delivery