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Mattress and Pillow Protectors
We all talk about bedding essentials. Top of the list are good quality mattress and pillow protectors. They provide not only a layer of comfort but also a barrier against spillages and leaks. Our waterproof range is ideal when toilet training your little darlings.
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Protecting your mattress and pillows
A mattress is one of the most expensive items in your bedroom, and unlike sheets and duvet covers, it cannot be machine washed. A protector sits between the fitted sheet and the mattress surface, creating a washable barrier against moisture, dust mites, and everyday wear. Most Belledorm protectors can be machine washed at 40°C and tumble dried on a low setting, keeping the sleeping surface hygienic without any specialist cleaning.
Belledorm mattress protectors are available in three types. Quilted protectors have a padded cotton or polyester top layer that adds a thin cushion of comfort alongside the protection, a good all-round choice for any bed. Waterproof protectors have a moisture-proof membrane backing that stops spills and perspiration from reaching the mattress, making them particularly useful for children's beds, guest rooms, and anyone who wants full liquid protection. Fitted protectors are lightweight and unpadded, designed purely as a surface barrier with minimal change to the feel of the mattress underneath.
Pillow protectors work in the same way - a washable layer between the pillowcase and the pillow filling. They are especially useful for anyone with allergies, as pillows accumulate dust mites more quickly than mattresses due to the warmth and moisture from breathing.
All protectors are sized to match standard UK bed dimensions from single to super king. If your mattress is deeper than standard - for example, a modern pocket-sprung mattress or one with a topper, check that the protector depth matches. As a general guide, if you use extra deep fitted sheets, you are likely to need a deeper protector too. For bolster pillows, specific bolster protectors are available in the 50cm × 90cm size.
Got Mattress and Pillow Protector Questions? We've Got Answers
Yes, if you want to extend the life of your mattress and keep it hygienic. A mattress cannot be machine washed, but a protector can. It sits between the fitted sheet and the mattress surface, creating a washable barrier against perspiration, skin cells, dust mites, and accidental spills. Over time, unprotected mattresses accumulate moisture and allergens that cannot be removed. A protector is one of the least expensive ways to preserve a mattress that may have cost several hundred pounds, and most can be machine washed at 40°C on a standard cycle.
Belledorm offers three types. Quilted protectors have a padded cotton or polyester top layer that adds a thin cushion of comfort alongside protection - the most popular general-purpose choice. Waterproof protectors have a TPU membrane backing that prevents all liquid from reaching the mattress, suited to children's beds, guest rooms, and anyone wanting full moisture protection. Fitted protectors are lightweight and unpadded, designed purely as a surface barrier with minimal change to how the mattress feels underneath. All three types are machine washable and available in sizes from single to super king.
It depends on the type. A quilted protector adds a thin layer of padding that you may notice as a slight softening of the surface - most people find this comfortable rather than intrusive. A waterproof protector using modern TPU backing is thin and quiet, with no noticeable crinkle or change in surface temperature. A fitted protector is the lightest option and makes almost no difference to the feel of the mattress at all. None of the three types are thick enough to significantly change the firmness or support of the mattress - for that, you would need a mattress topper.
A mattress protector is a thin, washable cover designed to shield the mattress from moisture, dust mites, and wear. It does not significantly change the feel or firmness of the bed. A mattress topper is a thicker, padded layer designed to change the sleeping surface - typically softening a firm mattress or adding cushioning to an older one. Some people use both: a protector directly on the mattress for hygiene, with a topper on top for comfort, and a fitted sheet over everything. Belledorm offers both protectors and toppers in sizes from single to super king.
Yes, particularly if you want to keep your pillows fresh and extend their lifespan. Pillows absorb more moisture than mattresses because they are in direct contact with your face and breath throughout the night. That warm, damp environment is where dust mites thrive most quickly. A pillow protector creates a washable barrier between the pillowcase and the pillow filling, keeping the pillow cleaner for longer. Belledorm pillow protectors are available in standard and waterproof versions, both designed to fit standard UK housewife-sized pillows (50cm x 75cm).
Choose a protector that matches both the width and depth of your mattress. Belledorm mattress protectors are available in single (90cm), small double (120cm), double (135cm), king (150cm), and super king (180cm). For depth, check the skirt measurement on the protector against your total mattress depth. If you have a modern pocket-sprung mattress or use a mattress topper that adds height, you may need a deeper-skirted protector. As a general guide, if you use extra deep fitted sheets, you will likely need a protector with a matching deeper skirt.
Every one to two months under normal use. The fitted sheet on top handles the weekly washing and daily contact with skin, so the protector underneath does not need washing as frequently. Wash more often if the protector is on a child's bed, a guest bed that sees different users, or if a spill has occurred. Belledorm protectors can be machine washed at 40°C and tumble dried on a low setting. Avoid bleach and fabric softener, as both can damage waterproof membranes and reduce the protector's effectiveness over time.
Yes. All Belledorm protectors act as a physical barrier between you and the mattress filling, which reduces contact with dust mites - one of the most common triggers for night time allergies and asthma. Waterproof protectors offer the strongest barrier because the membrane prevents moisture from entering the mattress, removing the damp conditions dust mites need to thrive. For dedicated anti-allergy protection, Belledorm also offers hypoallergenic protectors that are specifically treated with an antibacterial finish for additional allergen management.