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Once my three year-old toddler had managed to successfully complete day time potty training, it was time to start the night time regime in earnest. A large part of that, as any mother will know, was to find the best mattress protector on the market to protect from any little accidents.
I was looking for one that would tick all my boxes: safety, comfort, not too noisy so it doesn’t rustle and wake her, 100 per cent waterproof and easy to wash and dry for repeated use. In short, one that didn’t feel too much like a crinkly hospital waterproof mattress cover, that was more homely, whilst also being practical.
“When you choose a mattress protector for your baby it should be the exact size of your mattress, waterproof and flat, without padding,” says Millie Poppins, a baby care expert who has worked in the business for 15 years. “The mattress protector should be a tight fit so that there is no excess material which could be a suffocation risk for the baby.”
Choosing between all the different types of mattress protector can feel overwhelming – quilted or flat? Hypoallergenic or non-hypoallergenic? Cotton or polyester? How about cooling properties for joint pain? To help you out, my daughter and I have tested all the major brands. I decided to only test waterproof mattress protectors as they tend to be the most effective. You can read my full reviews below, along with more advice from Millie Poppins. If you’re in a hurry, here’s a quick look at my top five:
Which are the best mattress protectors in 2024? At a glance
What should you consider when buying a mattress protector?
“Having a waterproof mattress protector is essential so that any liquids – such as urine, vomiting, milk etc – do not leak into the core of the mattress and cause bacteria growth,” says Millie.
“It is important to choose a flat fitted protector without extra layers, such as sheepskin, which can cause a baby to overheat. If you have concerns that your baby may be cold in their cot, you can use an age-appropriate sleeping bag or extra layers of clothing.
“You can choose a quilted mattress protector, but it is important that this does not take away from the firmness of the mattress and add unsafe padding. Any protector that you choose should create a firm, well-fitting and flat surface for safe sleep – and not be in any way elevated, as this can increase the risk of suffocation if they were to roll onto their front.”
