Mattress Protector Sizes and Dimensions (With Chart)

As much as you may try to avoid it, accidents can happen on your mattress. From spills to pet accidents, those moments can leave stains and smells that linger long on your bedding and, most of all, your mattress. 

While it’s easy to toss your comforters and sheets into the wash, it’s not so easy to do that with your mattress.

That’s why you need a mattress protector. It’s a protective, fitted, sheet-like barrier that keeps spills off your mattress.

If you opt for an encasement style protector that covers your entire mattress, it can help keep allergens off your mattress and even protect you from bed bugs. 

We’re sharing how to find the right size protector for your mattress, the differences in styles, materials to consider, and how to care for your mattress protector to ensure long-term use.

Standard mattress protector dimensions and pocket depth chart

Below, you’ll find the average width and length of your mattress protector. As you’ll notice, you can easily choose your protector size based on your mattress dimensions:

Meanwhile, pocket depth is determined by the height of your mattress from the top to the bottom. It can vary based on whether you have a deep mattress, such as one with a pillow topper, or use a mattress topper:

Key Types: fitted sheet style vs. encasement (six-sided)

You have two types of mattress protectors to consider: fitted-sheet style and encasement style.

The fitted-sheet-type protector covers the top and all four sides of your mattress. The encasement style is a six-sided option that protects the top, all four sides, and the bottom of your mattress.

Both come with different benefits and challenges:

• Fitted sheet style: This option is ideal for protecting your mattress from spills and stains. One of the biggest perks is that it’s easy to put on and take off for washing or replacement. 
• Encasement style: This six-sided protector can prevent spills, stains, bed bugs, and dust mites from getting on your mattress. The biggest challenge is actually putting it on as it covers all six sides of your mattress. If you have a larger or heavier mattress, you’ll need at least one other adult with you to help you maneuver it around your mattress. 

How to measure mattress depth accurately

Your mattress protector comes in a few different depth options:

• Standard, between 8 and 12 inches
• Deep, between 14 and 18 inches,
• Extra deep, 18 inches and beyond

You’ll need to measure your mattress depth to determine the ideal pocket depth for your mattress protector.

To do so, measure the height from the very top of your mattress to the very bottom. Include any mattress toppers you normally use as the protector will need to cover them as well. 

Waterproofing materials: polyurethane (PU) vs. vinyl (and noise control)

One of the biggest perks of a mattress protector is that it safeguards your mattress from spills. However, you want to choose the right type of material as some waterproofing materials can make noises as you move throughout the night. 

A waterproof mattress protector is made up of a soft outer layer with a waterproof material layered in between. Two of the most common waterproofing materials are polyurethane (PU) and vinyl. 

Vinyl is essentially plastic. While it’s easy to wipe clean when accidents happen, it comes with the drawback of being both noisy and hot. 

PU provides strong protection while having greater breathability. You won’t have to worry about temperature problems at night. It also won’t erode as quickly as vinyl over time. 

Protecting against bed Bugs, allergens, and liquid spills

Mattress protectors can prevent bed bugs, allergens, and spills from damaging your mattress. The type of protector you choose can determine what you’re protected against.

An unprotected mattress can accumulate these allergens over time, increasing the likelihood of an allergic reaction. A tight, protective barrier is one of the best ways to protect against that.

An encasement style covers all six sides of your mattress. It can help prevent dust, dander, bed bugs, mites, and pollen from settling into the mattress. It can also safeguard your mattress from damage caused by liquid spills. 

If your primary concern is spills, especially if it’s a child’s bed, you may want the fitted-sheet style. It’s easier to remove, so if an accident happens in the middle of the night, you can just take off and replace the protector with ease.

No matter which you choose, make sure to purchase a mattress cover with a waterproof backing. It also needs to be the appropriate size, taking pocket depth into account to ensure proper fit and coverage.

Care instructions to preserve waterproof backing

To get the most life out of your waterproof mattress protector, take a few extra precautions with ongoing use:

• Spot clean stains: Use a stain remover to treat minor stains as they happen rather than waiting for laundry day. This can make it easier to clean and keep fresh. Also, on laundry day, avoid using heavy-duty detergents. A mild option is often best to avoid wearing down the waterproofing.
• Follow care guidelines: Most mattress protectors can be put in the washer and even the dryer, especially on low heat. However, follow any care guidelines as each protector may differ, whether it’s water temperature or drying instructions. Most often, lukewarm or cold water and low drying levels usually work best.
• Wash monthly: You don’t need to wash your mattress protector as often as your sheets, but once or twice a month is usually ideal. Doing so will protect you from the potential buildup of allergens or bed bugs if that’s your primary concern.

FAQs

How do you measure mattress depth for a protector?

To measure the depth of your mattress, use a tape measure to measure from the very top of the mattress, including any mattress toppers, to the bottom edge. This helps you determine the ideal pocket depth.

What is the difference between a fitted mattress protector and an encasement?

A fitted mattress protector is an extra layer that functions much like your own fitted sheet, covering four sides and the top. The encasement covers all six sides, including the bottom of the mattress. A fitted option is best suited for preventing spills and liquid accidents. An encasement option is great for safeguarding your mattress from allergen buildup and bed bugs.

Can a mattress protector affect how cool a mattress feels?

The type of waterproofing can affect your mattress temperature. Vinyl materials tend to get hot during the night. So opt for a mattress protector made with polyurethane (PU) for greater breathability.