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The Best Ways to Waterproof Mattresses

Keeping all liquids away from beds is a nearly impossible task. Because liquids should never get into mattresses, you should have a line of defense between your sheets and your mattress. The best waterproofing system depends on how you use the mattress and how much you are willing to spend.
  1. Zippered Waterproof Cover

    • The best way to protect a mattress from water or other liquid damage is to put a zippered waterproof cover on it. This waterproof cover goes all the way around the mattress and zips closed so water cannot get into the mattress through the top, sides or bottom. This also makes flipping the mattress easier because you do not have to adjust the position of the waterproof cover.

    Waterproof Mattress Pad

    • Double up the purposes of the items you put on your mattress by getting a padded mattress cover that also provides protection against moisture. Some of these are made of breathable but waterproof materials covering the top of the mattress pad. Others are traditional mattress pads with a layer of waterproof plastic at the bottom to prevent any moisture that gets in the pad from crossing into the mattress.

    Mattress Protector

    • A simple layer of waterproof material is the last major type of mattress protector. This layer might include fitted sides to keep it on the mattress or it could just go under the sheets or mattress pad you already have. Choose a mattress protector that is a soft material rather than a crinkly plastic for increased comfort. Another alternative for bed-wetters is to get a strip of soft waterproof material to tuck in over the fitted sheet. That way, you do not have to change the sheets every night.

    Significance

    • Mattresses are not designed to be exposed to water. Any moisture that gets into a mattress can cause problems, including mold growth or material degradation. In addition, if the moisture has an odor, it could get trapped in the mattress. Therefore, whether you are protecting the mattress from sweat, bed wetting or general spills, a waterproof cover keeps liquids out of your mattress.