Go to the public library and browse consumer opinion and research magazines to see which mattress protectors rank highest among consumers.
Decide what features are important for your needs. Many individuals suffer with allergies and need hypoallergenic mattress protectors to help with their allergy symptoms.
Look for waterproof mattress protectors if you or someone in your family suffers from incontinence or is chronically ill, as suggested by the Pure Living Collection website. This type of protector is also important for families with infants and young children who may still wet the bed or have an occasional accident.
Understand the types of fabrics and fillers used in the mattress protectors. If you have an old, uncomfortable mattress but cannot afford to buy a new one at this time, you may wish to choose a protector with quilted covering or extra thick padding. These will make your bed more comfortable and lengthen the amount of time before you need to purchase a new mattress.
Decide whether you want cotton or polyester filling in your mattress protector. Cotton-filled protectors are helpful for adding additional comfort to a worn out or uncomfortable mattress. Protectors with a polyester filling or a cotton/polyester blend can be washed at a higher temperature than their all-cotton counterparts. This is helpful if you suffer from allergies, as it can be washed at a higher temperature in order to kill dust mites.
Ask your friends and relatives which brands they have had good luck with in mattress protectors. You will get unbiased opinions, which you probably will not get from a salesperson that is looking to sell you the highest priced protector.
Shop around the different brands in your department store. Some brands do not carry waterproof protectors or those made for special mattresses such as the California king size or the mattresses with extra depth in them.
Search online consumer opinion sites to see which mattress protectors get the best reviews, have the highest degree of customer satisfaction and are the best buy for your money.