Many people face the challenge of protecting their sleep haven from pests, particularly bed bugs. Bed bugs are notorious for their ability to hitchhike on luggage and clothing, silently infiltrating homes.
Since bed bugs are ramping up, the demand for mattress covers specifically designed to thwart these tiny, resilient pests is also rising.
A mattress cover designed to prevent bed bug infestations will seal off the mattress entirely, denying it access or harborage. These covers are constructed with tight, impenetrable fabrics that prevent bed bugs from biting through and unique zippers that ensure a secure, bug-proof closure. However, bed bugs can hide on your bed frame, furniture, or bedding, so a mattress will only help by preventing them from hiding on your mattress.
Unlike regular mattress protectors, these covers encase the entire mattress and are often lab-tested to guarantee their effectiveness. When choosing the best bed bug mattress cover, it’s crucial to consider the material’s durability, breathability, ease of installation, and whether it has been independently tested and certified to be bed bug-proof.
Our research yielded a comprehensive evaluation of various mattress covers, focusing on their construction, efficacy, and user experience. Let’s see what the best bed bug mattress covers are!
Top Pick for Bed Bug Mattress Covers aka Bed Bug Mattress Protector
As we all know, a bed bug infestation can be an absolute nightmare. That’s why we’ve gathered our top picks for bed bug mattress covers to help minimize hiding spots around your bed.
Remember that a bed bug cover only stops them from hiding on the mattress. So, it is only one line of defense against these bugs. You’ll need to implement high heat, box spring covers, treatment by a licensed exterminator, and regular inspections to eliminate them.
Great for monitoring because, If you see fecal matter stains on the outside of the stark white cover you’ll know you have an issue!
Over the years, we have purchased every single one of these mattress covers and tried them out. The most important thing to remember here is to just buy one and not get hung up on which is the best. They all work for bed bug monitoring and prevention. Most importantly, if you have a box spring, then get one for that, too!
Utopia Bedding Mattress Encasement
You’ll appreciate how this Utopia Bedding mattress cover combines protection and comfort, especially if you’re dealing with bed bugs or spills. The waterproof layer can help with other issues, not just bed bugs! Many of our clients choose this one because of its affordable price and effective full encasement.
- 360° Coverage Protection - Fits 39 inches by 75 inches twin size mattress up to 13 inches deep, fully encasing all sides. The stretchy fabric slips on easily and stays securely in place without shifting. Refer to the installation video below for step-by-step guidance.
- Soft and Durable Fabric - The non-crinkling design keeps the twin size mattress cover quiet and comfortable without feeling stiff. Made from smooth, knitted polyester, that lays flat across the mattress.
- Secure Zippered Closure - The wrap-around zipper encloses the mattress for a tight, secure fit. The mattress protector is designed to provide all-around coverage without shifting.
- 100% Waterproof Liquid Barrier - A protective waterproof layer helps block spills, sweat, drinks and everyday accidents from reaching the mattress, ideal for homes with kids or pets.
- Easy Machine Care – The twin size mattress encasement is simple to maintain. Machine wash and tumble dry on low heat with your regular laundry to keep it clean. Note: Packaging may vary slightly.
Pros
- Fully encases the mattress, providing 360-degree protection
- Soft and breathable bed bug proof fabric ensures a comfortable night’s sleep
- Effective waterproofing keeps the mattress free from stains and liquids
- It offers a snug fit with a stretchable polyester fabric.
Cons
- Zipper closure might be challenging for some to maneuver
- It could fit a bit snugly on mattresses on the higher end of the 10-inch depth
- It might not be as breathable as other materials.
The six-sided lockout will lock out bed bugs, carpet beetles, and dust mites, allowing our clients to sleep more soundly, knowing they’re free from these unseen pests.
The breathability of a mattress cover is crucial to avoid overheating during sleep, and thankfully, we found the fabric in this encasement to be pleasantly airy. It allowed our client’s mattress to maintain its natural temperature-regulating qualities, so nights were comfortable and relaxed.
Additionally, accidental spills were no match for the waterproof barrier. The TPU backing not only guarded the mattress effectively against liquids but also proved quiet without that crinkly noise some covers produced. Comfort and protection didn’t feel mutually exclusive in this case.
Remember to take a tape measure to gauge your mattress’s height correctly before ordering; although the encasement claims to fit 10-inch mattresses perfectly, you’ll want to ensure a snug, not strained, fit.
When it’s time to clean, you’ll be pleased to find that this encasement is a breeze to machine wash, fostering a fresh sleeping environment with minimal effort. It’s a good idea to first, learn how to wash the bed bug mattress cover safely.
Linenspa Encasement
You should consider this encasement for its solid protection and convenience, making it a sound investment for your bedroom. It’s secure zipper creates a physical barrier! Additionally you can put a mattress pad on top of the encasement for more comfort.
- TOTAL PROTECTION: This mattress encasement keeps your mattress surface safe and fresh with 360˚ protection; Ultra-thin, flexible fabric stays secured in place and fits up to 12” mattresses
- AQUA TIGHT BARRIER: 100% waterproof mattress cover safeguards your mattress against liquids, spills, and accidents – keeping you dry and comfortable while also avoiding stains and messes
- QUIET COMFORT: Sleep comfortably with this breathable bed protector; Lightweight fabric is noiseless, allowing a peaceful night’s sleep that won’t change the feel of your mattress
- EASY CARE: Machine washable and dryer safe on low heat means your zippered mattress protector is an easy clean; Simply toss in the wash and dry on low heat for a simply clean sleep surface
- MULTIPLE OPTIONS AVAILABLE: Available in Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, and California King sizes; Box spring cover and pillow protectors also available
Pros
- Complete 360˚ mattress protection ensures peace of mind.
- The 100% waterproof feature keeps your mattress pristine.
- The material is noiseless for undisturbed sleep.
Cons
- It may only fit some mattress heights perfectly.
- Zipper quality could be improved.
- Limited breathability compared to some alternatives.
We recently covered our client’s guestroom mattresses with the Linenspa Encasement, and it’s been a revelation. It slipped on effortlessly, fitting like a glove over the mattress. The seal felt secure, particularly with the zippered closure system, which encases every inch, leaving no refuge for bed bugs. Plus, the peace of mind knowing that spills and stains won’t seep through is invaluable.
We first noticed the absence of noise—usually associated with waterproof covers. It’s as if it’s not even there, yet the protection is unmistakable.
Maintenance will also be a breeze. You can throw it into the wash, and it comes out looking good as new each time. While it’s a robust guard for the mattress, our friends have mentioned they appreciate that it doesn’t detract from the comfort of the mattress itself.
Overall, the Linenspa Encasement has proven to be an essential accessory for our bedding. It checks off all the mandatory boxes for us at a reasonable price point.
Degrees of Comfort Queen Mattress Protector
This encasement was a reliable safeguard, keeping our client’s bed pristine and pest-free. The best mattress protectors also protect against bed bugs, carpet beetles, and dust mites!
- 6-SIDED MICRO-ZIPPER ENCLOSURE: Designed as a complete bed bug mattress cover with a 360° micro-zipper and Velcro flap. This physical structure tightly seals your mattress on all six sides for a secure, gap-free fit.
- 3M SCOTCHGARD STAIN RELEASE: Authentic 3M technology manages moisture and allows tough stains to wash out easily. This mattress encasement maintains a fresh, breathable cotton terry surface wash after wash.
- 100% WATERPROOF TPU BACKING: Premium cotton terry absorbs liquids while the specialized TPU backing physically blocks spills and sweat. Enjoy full liquid coverage that is breathable, noiseless, and temperature-neutral.
- NOISELESS COMFORT & SNUG FIT: Zero plastic crinkling sounds. Our soft terry fabric ensures an undisturbed sleep experience. Available in 4 depth profiles for a tailored fit on memory foam or innerspring mattresses without bunching.
- OEKO-TEX CERTIFIED & EASY CARE: Strictly tested for safety with OEKO-TEX Standard 100 materials. This durable machine-washable enclosure offers a highly practical and easy-to-maintain bedding solution for everyday use.
Pros
- Enhances mattress longevity with durable construction
- Creates a silent and soft sleeping surface
- Offers excellent waterproofing without compromising on breathability
Cons
- Initial fitting over the mattress requires a bit of effort
- Bulkier mattresses may stretch the fabric’s limits
- Velcro and zipper end could be a potential weak spot for pests
Sleeping soundly has taken on new significance since we started using the Degrees of Comfort Queen Mattress Protector.
Its six-sided design encases the entire mattress, providing peace of mind from dust mites and bed bugs. We immediately noticed the soft, plush terry cotton material, which didn’t crinkle or make noises when we moved, allowing for an uninterrupted night’s rest.
Its impressive waterproofing proved to be a significant asset. Spills and other accidents stayed on the surface without seeping through, keeping the mattress below dry. The protector’s breathability is equally commendable; we stayed cool and comfortable throughout the night without that plasticky feeling some protectors leave us with.
We appreciated that it came out of the wash looking as good as new, confirming its durable and easy-to-clean claims. It fits pretty snugly on our queen-size mattress, even accommodating the added height of a mattress topper. On top of that, for those worried about harmful chemicals, knowing it’s free from substances like Vinyl and PVC puts our minds at ease.
SureGuard Queen Encasement
If you’re looking for complete seal mattress protection against bed bugs and spills, the SureGuard Encasement is a worthy contender. It comes in all sizes, including one for a California King.
- 100% Waterproof - Six-sided premium mattress protector blocks perspiration, bed wetting, liquids and stains; 10-year quality guarantee (NOTE: For frequent accidents and easy clean-ups, place a fitted SureGuard Mattress Protector over the encasement).
- Bed Bug Proof - Super fine zipper with Invisi-Zip and SureSeal technology completely seals off the mattress from bed bugs - use with a SureGuard Box Spring Encasement
- Keeps Your Mattress Clean & Fresh - Blocks dust, dirt and dander on all sides.
- Soft & Noiseless - 100% cotton terry top; Wicks away moisture; Retains the feel of your mattress - Free from Vinyl, PVC, Phthalates, fire retardants and other toxic chemicals
- Queen (60 in x 80 in) - Fits 13 to 16 inches deep; Zippered Mattress Encasement - Machine wash and dry. Independently lab tested and GREENGUARD Gold certified.
Pros
- Effectively guards against bed bugs and liquids
- Machine washable for easy maintenance
- Soft cotton terry surface maintains mattress comfort
Cons
- You will notice slight noise with movement
- May require assistance for easy installation
- Zipping it on a larger mattress can be a bit cumbersome
Since it is known for its bed bug-proof design, our clients sleep with peace of mind knowing they have protection! With its Invisi-Zip technology, the fine zipper is very effective in sealing off any potential entry points for pests.
We always recommend having an extra pair of hands when installing your encasement since you’ll have to stand the mattress straight up. Even better, once we had it on, the 100% waterproof claim held up admirably against an accidental spill from our client’s child, saving their mattress from a potential disaster.
We noticed the soft cotton terry surface added minimal bulk to the mattress, preserving the bed’s original comfort feel. While you can hear some sound when moving around at night, it wasn’t a significant issue and seemed a small price to pay for such reliable protection.
Given the difficulty some may face when fitting it onto a mattress, especially thicker ones, it’s clear that the design is geared towards security over convenience. That said, the end results made these initial challenges well worth it.
Buying Guide for the Best Bed Bug Mattress Cover
When we’re searching for the best bed bug mattress cover, there are several key features we should look for to ensure we choose the most effective one. Let’s break down these essential considerations.
If you made it this far, then stop and learn more about mattress covers for bed bugs with our in-depth guides:
Do mattress covers stop bed bugs? Read our in-depth answer to this question.
Can bed bugs live on a plastic mattress cover? Can they chew through?
Material Quality
First and foremost, we want a cover made from strong, durable materials. Look for high-quality fabric that’s tear-resistant, as it will need to withstand regular use.
- Breathable: We need a material that allows for good air circulation and provides comfort while sleeping.
- Impermeable: The cover should be able to block bed bugs completely, so a non-porous material is a must.
Size and Fit
The mattress cover must fit snugly, as bed bugs can exploit loose areas. If it’s loose and hanging, you’ll provide more hiding spots for the bugs.
- Exact Fit: Measure our mattress to find a cover that matches its dimensions perfectly.
- Fully Encased: Opt for a fully zippered cover that encases the entire mattress.
Ease of Care
Our mattress cover should be easy to clean, as we’ll need to do so regularly to maintain hygiene.
- Machine Washable: This makes cleaning straightforward and less time-consuming.
- Durable in Wash: Ensure the cover can withstand multiple washes without deteriorating.
Secure Closure
The zipper or closure system is a critical component, as this is often a weak spot where bed bugs could enter or escape. Additionally, a zipper and tight weave will also help with other types of bugs!
- Fine-toothed Zipper: Look for zippers that are small and tightly stitched.
- Hook or Velcro Flap: Some covers have additional features to secure the zipper area.
By focusing on these critical bed bug cover aspects, we can be confident in selecting a mattress cover that will protect our bed against bed bugs.