Wirecutter

This fitted protector—essentially a waterproof padded topper—is the most comfortable to sleep on of the models we tested, but costs much more than our main pick. It comes in a wide range of sizes, including crib size.

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The Best Waterproof Mattress Protectors and Pads

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If you are looking to combine your mattress protection needs with some additional padding, look no further than this partial bamboo choice from PlushDeluxe Premium Bamboo. The comfy, spongy material can assist in smoothing out any uneven surfaces at the top of your mattress, all while ensuring it won't be harmed by any spills due to the polyurethane backing. While most mattress protectors boast that they are "quiet," we truly didn't hear any sound when testing the PlushDeluxe. It's very breathable due to the partial bamboo filling on top and the thin mesh sides. 
The PlushDeluxe has the largest percentage of bamboo fibers of the models we tested while still displaying excellent accident protection levels. The mesh sides are breathable and simple to use. The elastic sewn on the edges is thin, which gives us some concern about durability and that they might slip out of place. Still, we really enjoy the support and protection that this bamboo blended model provides while remaining breathable and very comfortable.  
Health rating: None

Upgrade Pick

One of the biggest downsides to waterproof fabric is that it often must sacrifice breathability in favor of protection. The SureGuard mattress protector is better than most, with a 100% cotton terry top that helps to absorb and evaporate your sweat on a muggy summer night, making for a more comfortable sleeping experience. It also has thin sides, further aiding its breathability. The finer, small-looped terry helps keep this protector's noise and sleep surface closer to the natural feel of your mattress. Also, It has some of the deepest pockets of any model we tested, making it a solid choice for some of today's super-thick mattresses.
Like most of the terry-topped covers we tested, this one stains easier than we'd like. Its ultra-deep pockets also give it a lot of extra room to slide around on slimmer mattresses. The elastic is a bit too thin, and the fit is a tad loose to provide a secure fit. But if you're looking for a simple, more breathable option, the SureGuard is a solid choice.
Health rating: GreenGuard certified

Budget Pick

We like this travel-friendly, easy-to-change mattress pad for kids because it’s made with safer polyurethane instead of vinyl.

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This inexpensive fitted mattress protector is one of the few that stayed fully waterproof through our tests. It’s comfortable to sleep on and inexpensive.

This encasement isn’t quite as comfortable as the Protect-A-Bed cover, but it’s well-constructed and sturdy with a Velcro zipper closure. It’ll protect your mattress and your wallet.

The Linenspa 5-sided mattress protector provides more than adequate protection without changing your bed's feel or sound. This cover sets itself apart from the competition thanks to its ability to protect your mattress on five sides, not just the top. Like a fitted sheet, it easily slips over your mattress, and cleans up just as easily in a home washing machine. The Linenspa cover offers excellent protection against spilled liquids &mdash; it passed our wine spill test with flying colors. The sleek surface ensures that your mattress doesn't feel any different when it's on, and we had to listen really hard to notice any noise.
While this mattress protector provides more than adequate protection, it doesn't provide additional support or cushioning. Another downside is that it lacks breathability compared to others we tested due to its 100% polyester material. However, if layered under a mattress pad and under a fitted sheet, we doubt you'll notice a significant difference in the temperature of your bed. This impressive 5-sided mattress protector is our recommendation for reliable protection against general daily mishaps.
Health rating: None

The Linenspa 5-sided mattress protector provides more than adequate protection without changing your bed's feel or sound. This cover sets itself apart from the competition thanks to its ability to protect your mattress on five sides, not just the top. It slips over your mattress as easily as a fitted sheet and is a cinch to clean in your home washing machine. The Linenspa cover offers excellent protection against spilled liquids &mdash; it passed our wine spill test with flying colors. The sleek surface ensures that your mattress doesn't feel any different when it's on, and we had to listen really hard to notice any noise.
This mattress protector provides excellent protection, but it doesn't offer any additional support or cushioning. Its 100% polyester material also lacks breathability compared to some other models. However, if layered under a mattress pad and under a fitted sheet, we doubt you'll notice a significant difference in the temperature of your bed. This impressive 5-sided mattress protector is our recommendation for reliable protection against general daily mishaps.
Health rating: None

Mattress Protector Comparison