If you’ve ever tried (and failed) to eat or drink in the bed without making a mess, potty trained a child or had a muddy pet jump up to cuddle, you know the importance of a mattress protector. However, mattress protectors have gained a bad rap over the years—many of them aren’t breathable, trapping heat and making you sweat. The best cooling mattress protectors—like the Brooklyn Bedding Luxury Cooling Mattress Protector—are made with breathable, cooling fabrics but still also offer protection against spills.
The best cooling mattress protectors shield against spills while keeping you cool.
Illustration: Forbes / Photos: Retailers
If you’re not sure which kind of mattress protector you need, this guide can help you decide. But if you’re prone to sleeping hot, definitely choose one with cooling properties. According to Dr. Robert Oexman, sleep researcher and the founder and CEO of Somly, “The mattress protector you use can impact your temperature and the ability of the mattress to work properly.”
Brooklyn Bedding’s Luxury Cooling Mattress Protector is our top pick thanks to its cooling capacity, water-resistance and moderate price point. The protector contains TPU fibers that are hypoallergenic, quiet, water-resistant and breathable. It can also accommodate most mattresses with a 14-inch pocket depth, and has a silky, cool-to-the-touch feel.
The protector isn’t actively cooling so much as it’s non–heat trapping—which is still an improvement over many other mattress protectors. So if you need a good mattress protector that helps prevent liquids from seeping on to your mattress but doesn’t make you warmer, this is a solid choice.
What the reviews say:Most reviewers are perfectly satisfied with this mattress protector. One says, “Seems to help with cooling on these warm summer nights, plus it has very minimal padding.” Another states, “Fits well and is comfortable, does not hold in heat like others we have used before. Do not notice it is even on the bed. Much better than others we had before.”
“Ver-Tex” technology improves airflow through the protector to prevent heat build-up
Powerband keeps the mattress protector in place even on adjustable bases
Fully waterproof
Cons:
Slippery feel makes fitted sheet slide off
More expensive than many other mattress protectors
The Bedgear Ver-Tex Mattress Protector is a fully waterproof mattress protector—putting it a step above water-resistant mattress protectors in terms of protection against fluids and spills. (And yes, there’s a difference between water-resistant and waterproof—water-resistant materials may allow small amounts of fluid to seep through, while waterproof materials completely prevent fluid seepage.)
Additionally, Bedgear’s proprietary “Ver-Tex” technology helps maintain breathability and airflow through the protector so it doesn’t trap heat. This topper also features a “Powerband” elastic band that helps it stay in place on your bed.
What the reviews say:Reviewers are happy with the protection the Bedgear Ver-Tex Mattress Protector provides. One says, “First test of mattress waterproof barrier was a great success. Young grandchild had an accident and protector did its job.” Another says, “So far, no complaints. It does what is promised, keeping your mattress protected without the extra heat of other protectors on the market.” However, some reviewers say the protector is a little loud and that the fitted sheet slips off the top.
Made with certified OEKO-TEX Standard 100 textiles
Cons:
Makes fitted sheet slip off the bed
May be noisy according to reviewers
The Coop Sleep Goods Ultra-Cool Waterproof Mattress Protector is a budget-friendly option, clocking in at under $100 for all sizes from twin all the way to California king. And while it’s not the cheapest mattress protector money can buy, it’s also coming from a popular, highly reputable sleep company that’s produced one of our favorite pillows.
Its poly fabric cover is woven in a way that allows the protector to breathe and remain cool, and is mounted on a fully waterproof layer. However, reviewers note that it makes their fitted sheets slide off the bed easily.
What the reviews say:Reviews of this mattress protector are mixed, with most complaints attesting to how the fitted sheet doesn’t stay on the bed because of how slick the protector is. However, one reviewer says with regard to the protector’s cooling capacity, “It works. I no longer feel like there’s heat being generated underneath me.” Another says, “It did feel cooler than others.”
This Slumberfly mattress protector is the least expensive of our selections, and it could arrive at your door as soon as tomorrow with Prime shipping. It’s made of a polyethylene and polyester blend, like many other mattress protectors—providing a cool-to-the-touch feel and outstanding moisture resistance.
However, reviewers are mixed on the quality of this mattress protector. Some reviewers say it bunches up easily, and one reviewer even says—after a spill—she discovered that hers was decidedly not waterproof. However, this is a good choice if you’re on a limited budget or looking to get a mattress protector delivered quickly.
What the reviews say:Despite the negative reviews, many people are still happy with this mattress protector. One reviewer writes, “This protector keeps you cool and is of great quality. Now I don’t have to choose between sleeping hot or risk getting spills and stains on my new mattress.” Another says, “The first thing you’ll notice about this mattress protector is that it’s cool to the touch… Even after a full night’s sleep, the cooling effect of this pad keeps on going, reducing the ‘warm spot’ effect that disrupts your sleep and has you tossing and turning looking for a cooler spot in the bed.”
Materials: Polyester, nylon, spandex | Depth: Not stated | Features: Waterproof, antimicrobial, stain-resistance | Encasement style: Fitted sheet | Care instructions: Machine wash warm with cold rinse, tumble dry low
Pros:
Feels cool to the touch
Has antimicrobial and stain-resistant properties
Adds a slight amount of extra padding to the mattress
Cons:
More expensive than other cooling mattress protectors
Some reviewers say it’s not fully waterproof
While there is a slight difference between a mattress pad and a mattress protector (and a mattress topper, for that matter), this mattress pad from Sleep Number pulls double duty. In addition to adding a little extra padding to your sleep surface (roughly half an inch), it’s waterproof, antimicrobial and moderately stain-resistant.
Made of polyester, nylon and spandex, it feels cool to the touch, and the top of the pad features subtle ribbing that can help promote airflow. However, several reviewers have reported that the mattress pad isn’t actually fully waterproof. And like many other mattress protectors, it’s also slippery—making it difficult to keep a fitted sheet in place.
What the reviews say:For the most part, reviews of the Total Protection Mattress Pad are positive. One reviewer writes, “Love the protection, plus it helps me to stay cool at night.” Another says, “Twelve years so far—absolutely perfect protection of our Sleep Number mattress. Not a single, even slight spot or stain on it. Washes well, fits well, adds a little extra padding to the bed.”
Protects the sides of the mattress as well as the top
Cons:
Can’t read all reviews on the Nest website
Who needs a mattress protector more than a kid? Between potty training, snack smuggling, drink spills and kid grime (if you know, you know), a good waterproof mattress protector like this one from Nest Bedding can save your child’s mattress from a slow, stinky and stained demise. As the mother of a hot sleeper, I also appreciate that this protector considers the child’s comfort in addition to the product’s functionality. It features a cool-to-the-touch TPU backing beneath a breathable cotton top.
This protector is supposedly rated at a perfect 5 out 5 stars with more than 1,500 reviews, but the Nest website allows access to only a handful of the reviews. I’m a bit skeptical of that perfect score claim, but I’m sure that most people are satisfied with their purchase.
What the reviews say:Based on the reviews I could access, reviewers are very happy with this mattress topper. One reviewer says, “Perfect for my toddler. Has protected the mattress after several night time accidents.” Another reviewer states, “Keeps my daughter cool while she sleeps. She’s usually a hot sleeper and complains in the morning, but she’s been getting great sleep.”
Why Trust Forbes Vetted
The Forbes Vetted team has assembled a vast library of sleep-related content, including product reviews based on firsthand testing and buyer’s guides.
The author of this piece, SaVanna Shoemaker, is an experienced Forbes Vetted contributor. She’s tested and reviewed several bedding products, like the best firm pillows and the best mattress toppers for side sleepers. SaVanna is currently pursuing certification as a sleep and recovery coach.
Sleep editorsBridget Chapman and McKenzie Dillon have written and edited numerous mattress and bedding stories for Forbes Vetted. They have tested dozens of mattresses and other sleep products, and have both been certified as sleep science coaches.
Dr. Robert Oexman, a sleep researcher, founder and CEO of Somly and “@thesleepprofessor” on TikTok contributed his expert insights to this story to help us select products and assemble the shopping guide.
We periodically fact-check our articles to keep them relevant and make sure our recommended products are still in stock. This piece was last reviewed in July 2024.
How We Chose The Best Cooling Mattress Protectors
To find the best cooling mattress protectors, we sought out options from trusted brands, consulted with an expert and took the reviews of real customers into account.
We leaned into the guidance we received from Oexman, who shared breathable and cooling mattress protectors he recommends.
We also sought out highly rated products from respected and reputable brands. However, you may notice that some of these mattress protectors have mixed reviews and fairly low overall ratings. In order for mattress protectors to do their job effectively, they can’t be completely breathable or airy. If they’re highly breathable, they may not be completely water-resistant—and vice versa. By their very nature, even the best mattress protectors also tend to be noisy, crinkly, plasticky and slippery—not exactly a recipe for comfort or glowing ratings.
Finally, we chose mattress protectors at a few different price points to make sure there was one to fit every budget. We also included a kids’ option—since children are arguably the demographic that most needs a mattress protector.
What To Consider When Shopping For The Best Cooling Mattress Protectors
Ready to shop? Here are a few key factors to consider when choosing the best cooling mattress protector for your (or your child’s) mattress.
Materials
Most cooling mattress protectors are made from polyethylene (PE) or polyurethane (PU). Both materials are lightweight, don’t trap heat, can wick away moisture and feel cool to the touch. These qualities make them ideal for mattress protectors.
Cooling Technology
There have been many advancements in cooling technology for mattresses and sheets, like temperature-regulating gel foams and phase change materials that dissipate your body heat. However, cooling mattress protectors have remained fairly simple. They are usually made with PE or PU that is designed to optimize breathability and water-resistance. The addition of extra materials could hinder their performance or make them too thick and padded.
For additional cooling without adding a lot of extra bulk to your bed, Oexman recommends harnessing the cooling power of air or water. You can do this with a high-tech bed cooling system.
Encasement Style
There are two major types of mattress protectors. Standard mattress protectors go on your mattress like a fitted sheet. They don’t provide wraparound protection, but they’re very easy to put on and take off.
Mattress encasements, on the other hand, are protectors that wrap entirely around the mattress and zip closed. They provide better protection against dirt, dust and allergens, but are a bit more cumbersome.
All of the mattress protectors we feature above are the fitted-sheet style. However, if you’re looking for more protection against dust and allergens, you may want to consider a mattress encasement.
Care
One of the biggest benefits of mattress protectors is that they can be easily thrown in the wash, while your mattress can’t.
Most mattress protectors can be machine-washed and dried, but it’s important to double-check the care instructions before you purchase—especially since some of these cooling protectors are made with specialty materials.
What Is The Best Material For A Mattress Protector To Keep Cool?
Most cooling mattress protectors are made from polyethylene or polyurethane. These materials lend mattress protectors a balance of waterproofing and cooling.
Do Cooling Mattresses Work In A Mattress Protector?
Mattress protectors are designed to keep water and other fluids from reaching your mattress. This has to limit breathability to some degree in order to provide fluid resistance. Oexman says, “A good passive cooling mattress can be limited if the mattress protector you use does not allow for air to move through from person to mattress or mattress to person.”
Fortunately, most cooling protectors are made with polyethylene, which does a good job at allowing heat to pass through it as opposed to collecting.
What Is The Best Mattress Protector For Someone Who Sweats?
The best mattress protectors for people who sweat at night need to be breathable and cooling. For the most part, these protectors are made out of polyethylene or polyurethane, which pull heat away from the body, but still provide fluid resistance.
