How Do You Get The Protectors Garden Key

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Replacing your mattress can be an expensive task, so it's important to look after yours for as long as possible. One of the best ways to keep a mattress in shop-bought shape is by investing in a mattress protector, which will keep it safe from all manner of spills and stains.

Finding the best mattress protector for your setup is just as important as finding the right duvet or pillow, and should be considered an essential part of your bedding. Luckily, the Good Housekeeping Institute has made things easy, by testing the top mattress protector brands on the market.

Here are our top 16 recommendations:

Best mattress protector: Panda Bamboo Waterproof Mattress Protector
Best cotton mattress protector: Eve The Mattress Protector
Best for sofa beds: Tempur Fit Waterproof Mattress Protector
Best quilted mattress protector: Brook + Wilde The Kensington Quilted Mattress Protector
Best for discretion: The Nectar Waterproof Mattress Protector
Best quilted waterproof mattress protector: The Fine Bedding Company Quilted Luxury Waterproof Mattress Protector
Best for comfort: The Duvet Store Pure Cotton Quilted Mattress Protector
Best hypoallergenic mattress protector: The Fine Bedding Company Spundown Mattress Protector
Best quality for under £40: M&S Pure Cotton Quilted Mattress Protector
Best for softness: Next Touch of Silk Quilted Mattress Protector
Best organic cotton mattress protector: Greenfibres Organic Cotton Mattress Protector
Best for waterproofing: Julian Charles Waterproof Mattress Protector
Best for cooling: REM-Fit Snow Mattress Protector
Best budget mattress protector: Fogarty Soft Touch Mattress Protector
Best heated mattress protector: Dreamland Boutique Hotel 200 Thread Quilted Heated Mattress Protector
Best wool mattress protector: The Wool Room Deluxe Wool Mattress Protector

Types of material

Mattress protectors can be made from various materials. Each one has its pros and cons, and the right fabric for you will depend on several factors such as your budget, if you suffer from allergies and your preferred sleeping temperature.

Here are the main materials to consider:

Cotton - This tends to be more expensive than synthetic, as it's more breathable and better at regulating temperature. Cotton mattress protectors also come in hypoallergenic or anti-allergy options. If your mattress protector is quilted with cotton filling, they tend to be soft and quiet to lie on. However, cotton tends to shrink after your first wash.
Synthetic - While this material isn't the best for breathability, or for keeping you cool at night, it is a cost effective option. Hypoallergenic and waterproof designs are available - with the latter featuring an additional layer such as polyurethane to keep spills at bay, but these are usually more expensive. It's also worth noting that pure synthetic protectors will not be as durable or long-lasting as cotton.
Wool - If you're looking for firm but comfortable support then wool is a good choice. While it's not overly common, it's growing in popularity because of its green credentials. It's a biodegradable, all-natural option that will keep you cool in summer and warm in winter. Wool protectors tend to be quite heavy and thick, making them harder to fold away and store. They can also smell a bit 'sheepish' at first!

Types of mattress protector

There are three main types of mattress protector, and finding the right one for you will depend on the level of protection you're looking for.

Fitted (skirted) - This is the most common design. It features an elasticated skirt that fits under the four corners of the mattress and leaves the top and sides completely covered.
Elastic straps - A more basic design that only covers the top of the mattress and is attached by an elastic strap on each corner. This leaves the sides of the mattress exposed, so the design is naturally not as protective or secure.
Encased - As the name suggests, this design completely encases the mattress and is sealed with a zip. It's the ultimate protection against bed bugs and dust mites. There aren't too many on the market, which is why none feature in this list.

Features to consider

Quilted - If you're looking for added comfort then a quilted mattress protector is probably the best option for you. Some can provide as much as 1cm of extra cushioning through their soft filling.
Waterproofing - Accidents happen, and when they do a waterproof mattress protector really comes in handy. Any spills will simply bead up and run off, rather than damage the mattress. However, these options tend to lack breathability and can grow overly hot. They can also be loud and rustle when you move around during the night, disturbing your sleep. Most waterproof designs tend to be a thin sheet, but some quilted options are available.
Hypoallergenic/anti-allergy - The difference between hypoallergenic and anti-allergy is that hypoallergenic is designed to reduce the chance of an allergic reaction, whereas anti-allergy has been specifically treated to prevent a reaction. If preventing allergy symptoms is your top priority, it's better to look for an anti-allergy protector.

Things to look out for

Cooling - If excess heat is hampering your efforts to get a good night's sleep then a mattress protector with cooling properties may be able to help, particularly on hot summer nights. Some feature Outlast material, which was originally developed by NASA for optimal temperature regulation. This makes them feel cool to the touch.
Eco - Sustainable options are available if you want to go green. If wool is not for you, look out for organic cotton. Some protectors are even designed with sustainability in mind, such as Panda's Bamboo Mattress Protector.
Deep mattress - Be sure to measure the depth of your mattress before you make your decision. If your mattress is too deep to fit the average skirting depth, there are certain protectors that offer a deeper mattress design.
Wash instructions - Mattress protectors should be washed regularly to keep your bedding set-up feeling fresh, so check to see if each product is machine-washable. Also, to save yourself plenty of time and space on the washing line, keep an eye out for protectors that can be tumble dried.
Guarantee - It's worth looking for a mattress protector that comes with a guarantee or a trial period, just in case things don't work out.

How we test

We tested 23 mattress protectors, assessing each one on fit, security and comfort. We also tested waterproofing, when a brand had made this claim.

We checked if each protector rustled when moving sleep positions, and we monitored any cooling properties by seeing if our temperature stayed level overnight.

Finally, we put each mattress protector through a series of wash tests to make sure there was no shrinkage or damage.

Prices shown below are for a size UK double.

Best mattress protector

Panda Bamboo Waterproof Mattress Protector

Score: 100/100

Made from 70% sustainable bamboo and boasting a rare perfect score, this eco-friendly, waterproof mattress protector balanced green credentials with immaculate performance.

Despite its thin design, it blocked any spills from seeping through, leaving our mattress bone dry even when we poured a glass of water directly onto it! It didn't rustle at all, can be machine washed and tumble dried, and it comes in a cot size for sleepy tots.

Key specifications
Material: Top: 70% bamboo, 30% cotton; waterproof layer: TPU; skirting: 100% polyester
Type: Fitted
Sizes: Cot to emperor
Skirt depth: 32cm
Quilted: No
Waterproof: Yes
Hypoallergenic/anti-allergy: Yes
Machine wash: Yes
Tumble dry: Yes
Guarantee: 2 years

Best cotton mattress protector

Eve The Mattress Protector

Score: 97/100

Dropping just three marks, this waterproof option provided a flawless fit, even after washing - impressive given cotton's tendency to shrink.

It's so slim and silent to sleep on, even the hypersensitive protagonist of The Princess and the Pea wouldn't know it was there. It folds down small, too, making it pleasingly compact to store. Overall, it's hard to fault.

Key specifications
Material: Top: 100% cotton; waterproof layer: 100% polyurethane
Type: Fitted
Sizes: Single to super king
Skirt depth: 30cm
Quilted: No
Waterproof: Yes
Hypoallergenic/anti-allergy: No
Machine wash: Yes
Tumble dry: Yes
Guarantee: 2 years

Best for sofa beds

Tempur Fit Mattress Protector

Score: 94/100

This Tencel mattress protector is easy to fold down and takes up minimal storage space, making it handy for a sofa bed when guests come to stay.

It didn't let a drop of liquid through, which surprised us given its feathery thinness, and it stayed extremely quiet all night. It's dust mite resistant to boot, but the skirting is so delicate that we worry it might tear. It's also eye-wateringly expensive.

Key specifications
Material: Top: 100% Tencel; waterproof layer: 100% polyurethane
Type: Fitted
Sizes: Small single to super king
Skirt depth: 35 to 36cm
Quilted: No
Waterproof: Yes
Hypoallergenic/anti-allergy: No
Machine wash: Yes
Tumble dry: Yes
Guarantee: 3 years

Best quilted mattress protector

Brook + Wilde The Kensington Mattress Protector

Score: 91/100

This high-end mattress protector offers extra comfort with its thick, quilted layer. It fitted like a glove, felt like it had been built to last and its moisture-wicking properties kept us from overheating.

It comes with a three-year guarantee, reflecting the brand's confidence in its product, but note that it isn't waterproof. Our only qualm was that the prominent stitching could be felt through a standard bed sheet.

Key specifications
Material: Top: 100% percale cotton; filling: 100% hollowfibre polyester; skirt: 100% polyester jersey
Type: Fitted
Sizes: Single to super king
Skirt depth: 37cm
Quilted: Yes
Waterproof: No
Hypoallergenic/anti-allergy: No
Machine wash: Yes
Tumble dry: Yes
Guarantee: None

Best for discretion

The Nectar Waterproof Mattress Protector

Score: 90/100

The Nectar's almost undetectable design provided plenty of protection to our mattress, without bunching or adding any extra bulk, even after washing.

If we're being picky, there was a little rustling when our tester rolled over in bed and it can't be tumble dried, but overall it's a solid buy - especially given its reasonable price.

Key specifications
Material: Top fabric - 100% Tencel, Film - Polyurethane, Skirt - 100% polyester
Type: Fitted
Sizes: Single, small double, double, king, super-king
Skirt depth: 32cm
Quilted: No
Waterproof: Yes
Hypoallergenic/Anti-allergy: No
Guarantee: 2 years

Best quilted waterproof mattress protector

The Fine Bedding Company Quilted Luxury Waterproof Mattress Protector

Score: 88/100

It's unusual to find a protector that offers waterproofing and a quilted finish, but this one does both successfully. It kept our mattress pleasingly dry while also providing a barrier against dust mites.

It fitted well, even after repeated washing and drying, and folded down neatly for easy storage. Slightly thicker quilting would have bumped this mattress protector to a higher score, but overall we have no complaints.

Key specifications
Material: Cover/ Skirt: 100% Polyester, Filling: 100% Microfibre
Type: Fitted
Sizes: Single, double, king, super-king
Skirt depth: 35cm
Quilted: Yes
Waterproof: Yes
Hypoallergenic/anti-allergy: No
Guarantee: None

Best for comfort

The Duvet Store Pure Cotton Quilted Mattress Protector

theduvetstore.co.uk

£78.00

Score: 88/100

This protector scored full marks for comfort, thanks to the 1cm-deep cotton filling, which felt soft and luxurious. It's quiet to sleep on too, stays secure (even with tossing and turning), and can fit deeper mattresses.

This luxury does come at a higher price point though, but we think it's worth the extra investment. There are bespoke size options available, too.

Key specifications
Material: Casing, filling and skirt are 100% cotton
Type: Fitted
Sizes: Single to super king, bespoke options also available
Skirt depth: 35cm
Quilted: Yes
Waterproof: No
Hypoallergenic/anti-allergy: No
Guarantee: 5 years

Best hypoallergenic mattress protector

The Fine Bedding Company Spundown Mattress Protector

Score: 88/100

This quilted protector is hypoallergenic, making it a great option for allergy sufferers. It offers good coverage too, with the skirt fitting over our mattress' corners with ease. The quilted finish gives it a high quality feel, but doesn't provide much additional comfort.

Key specifications
Material: Cover: 100% Polyester, Filling: 100% Polyester, Skirt: 100% Knitted Polyester
Type: Fitted
Sizes: Single, small double, double, king, super-king
Skirt depth: 35cm
Quilted: Yes
Waterproof: No
Hypoallergenic/anti-allergy: Yes
Guarantee: None

Best quality for under £40

M&S Pure Cotton Quilted Mattress Protector

marksandspencer.com

£29.50

Score: 88/100

If you're looking for that premium feel on a budget, turn to trusty M&S. Its well-made mattress protector fitted our test mattress perfectly, even after washing, and folded down to a compact size for storage. A little extra cushioning would have been appreciated, but it's an otherwise reliable buy.

Key specifications
Material: 100% Cotton
Type: Fitted
Sizes: Single, double, king, super-king
Skirt depth: 30cm
Quilted: Yes
Waterproof: No
Hypoallergenic/anti-allergy: No
Guarantee: None

Best for softness

Next Touch Of Silk Mattress Protector

Score: 87/100

Made from a combination of microfibre and silk, you'll sleep like a king or queen with this protector under your sheets. It's luxuriously soft and comfy to lie on, while testers reported feeling cosy at night. We did notice some slight bobbling underneath after continued use, which reduces its otherwise quality finish.

Key specifications
Material: Face 100% Polyester. Filling 95% Polyester, 5% Silk. Reverse 100% Polypropylene. Skirt 100% Polyester
Type: Fitted
Sizes: Single, double, king, super-king
Skirt depth: 30cm
Quilted: Yes
Waterproof: No
Hypoallergenic/anti-allergy: No
Guarantee: None

Best organic cotton mattress protector

Greenfibres Organic Cotton Mattress Protector

Score: 86/100

Greenfibres aims to create products that are kind to the environment and you, which is why this stretchy protector is made from organic cotton.

The elasticated corners made it easy to secure to our mattress, while it maintained its shape and softness after our wash tests. The downside? The sizing is European, meaning there's excess material, which may annoy some.

Key specifications
Material: Organic cotton
Type: Elastic straps
Sizes: European single, double, king, super-king, Emperor
Skirt depth: N/A
Quilted: No
Waterproof: No
Hypoallergenic/anti-allergy: No
Guarantee: None

Best for waterproofing

Julian Charles Waterproof Mattress Protector

Score: 86/100

Looking for a reliable waterproof protector? Consider this one. It aced our waterproofing tests and didn't shrink in the wash. The skirt struggled to fully cover the sides of the mattress, leaving it exposed, but it covered the top area securely.

We noticed some slight crinkles when changing sleep positions but that's a minor niggle, especially considering its reasonable price.

Key specifications
Material:Face: 80% Cotton, 20% Polyester Skirt: 100% Polyester Waterproof Coating: 100% Polyurethane
Type: Fitted
Sizes:Single, double, king, super-king
Skirt depth:34cm
Quilted:No
Waterproof: Yes
Hypoallergenic/anti-allergy:No
Guarantee:None

Best for cooling

REM-Fit Snow Mattress Protector

Score: 86/100

Here's one for sleepers who tend to get hot and sticky at night. It's cool to the touch - due to the fabric being designed to quickly dissipate body heat - waterproof and hypoallergenic.

The slippery surface does mean bed sheets struggle to grip to it but it's generally a comfy layer to sleep on. The price is high, but sleepers sensitive to temperature changes will find it's worth splashing out on.

Key specifications
Material: Main panel:14.5% tencel/40% polypropylene/45.5% polyester. Lining: 100% polyurethane. Skirt: 100% polyester
Type: Fitted
Sizes: EU single, UK double, UK king, UK superking
Skirt depth: 38cm
Quilted: Yes
Waterproof: Yes
Hypoallergenic/anti-allergy: Yes
Guarantee: 5 years

Best budget mattress protector

Fogarty Soft Touch Mattress Protector

Score: 86/100

This synthetic, quilted protector felt particularly soft and silky compared to the competition. The fit was a little baggy, even after tumble drying, which meant it wasn't the most secure. However, it's a great price considering the overall quality. A deeper mattress option is also available (up to 35cm).

Key specifications
Material: Casing top: 100% polyester; casing back: 100% polypropylene; skirt: 100% polyester; filling: 100% polyester hollowfibre
Type: Fitted
Sizes: Single to super king
Skirt depth: 30 or 35cm
Quilted: Yes
Waterproof: No
Hypoallergenic/anti-allergy: No
Guarantee: Not specified

Best heated mattress protector

Dreamland, Boutique Hotel 200 Thread Quilted Heated Mattress Protector

Score: 84/100

With just the flick of a switch, this mattress protector will heat up and provide your bed with an ultra-cosy base. We found we could feel the heat in around three minutes, which is great for those cold winter evenings. In summer, the breathable cotton layer will also keep you cool. The additional quilting keeps things comfy too, while the skirt is easy to hook under the mattress for a secure fit. A great all-season buy.

Key specifications
Material: Textile: 100% cotton percale/Quilted/Inner 100% polyester, filling. Underneath: 100% Polyester
Type: Fitted
Sizes: Single, double, king, super-king
Skirt depth: 38cm
Quilted: Yes
Waterproof: No
Hypoallergenic/anti-allergy: No
Guarantee: 3 years

Best wool mattress protector

The Wool Room Deluxe Washable Wool Mattress Protector

Score: 84/100

The only wool option on our list, this mattress protector's premium finish is highlighted by the high-quality piping around its edge.

It showed minimal signs of shrinkage after washing and felt comfortable yet supportive to sleep on. It's smooth to the touch too, meaning you can't feel the stitching through a standard bed sheet, but it is a little noisy if you're prone to tossing and turning.

Key specifications
Material: Casing: 100% organic cotton; filling: 100% British wool
Type: Fitted
Sizes: Single to large emperor
Skirt depth: 35cm
Quilted: Yes
Waterproof: No
Hypoallergenic/anti-allergy: Yes
Guarantee: Not specified

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