Best Twin XL Mattress Protectors
Written by Becca Fair, Certified Sleep Science Coach
Protecting your mattress from dust, crumbs, and spills can help extend its lifespan, which is why we recommend that everyone use a mattress protector, especially kids and college students—two groups likely to be found on Twin XL mattresses and who are prone to messiness. The products on this list will help keep were chosen with washability and affordability in mind, so you can take better care of your mattress without too much hassle.
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6 Best Twin XL Mattress Protectors of 2024
- Saatva Waterproof Mattress Protector: Nerd’s Pick
- Brooklyn Bedding Terry Cloth Mattress Protector: Best Twin XL Mattress Protector for Kids
- Helix Waterproof Mattress Protector: Best Waterproof Twin XL Mattress Protector
- DreamCloud Premium Mattress Protector: Best Twin XL Mattress Protector for College Students
- Nectar Mattress Protector: Best Twin XL Mattress Protector for Adults
- Nest Bedding Organic Mattress Protector: Best Organic Twin XL Mattress Protector
Saatva Waterproof Mattress Protetor
Nerd’s Pick
The Saatva mattress protector is a moisture-wicking, waterproof, organic cotton protector that checks all the boxes for a dependable way to protect your mattress.
Reason to Buy: If you’re looking for an all-around great Twin XL mattress protector then we highly recommend the Saatva. It’s waterproof, made with very comfortable materials, features a polyurethane moisture barrier that promotes breathability, and secures snuggly to your mattress with a silicone elastic band. It might be a bit pricier ($115 for a Twin XL) than some of the other options on this list, but the quality speaks for itself.
Brooklyn Bedding Mattress Protector
Best Twin XL Mattress Protector for Kids
This mattress protector boasts a construction that is waterproof and resistant to bedbugs and dust mites at a very affordable price.
Reason to Buy: If you’re purchasing a mattress protector for your child, you don’t need to spend a whole lot of money. There’s a good chance they’ll outgrow their current mattress as a teenager or receive a new one when they leave home or go to college. The Brooklyn Bedding Terry Cloth Mattress Protector is a great option because it will protect your child’s mattress from spills and stains, but it’s affordable enough that you won’t feel bad about tossing it out when your kid eventually needs a new one.
Helix Waterproof Mattress Protector
Best Waterproof Twin XL Mattress Protector
The Helix Mattress Protector boasts a completely waterproof design that is still breathable enough to allow for temperature regulation.
Reason to Buy: As we mentioned, you’ll want to make sure whichever Twin XL mattress protector you purchase is waterproof. The Helix Mattress Protector, as well as being waterproof, has an anti-microbial design that helps prevent the growth of allergens and bacteria. This one is a great choice for anyone who wants a reliable, high-quality protector that doesn’t overcomplicate things.
DreamCloud Premium Mattress Protector
Best Mattress Protector for College Students
Keep your dorm-room mattress nice and fresh with this easy-to-clean, all-around great mattress protector.
Reason to Buy: The DreamCloud Premium Mattress Protector is completely waterproof and is made with natural cotton that feels silky smooth against your skin. Plus (and this is a big plus), this mattress protector is super easy to clean. Simply throw it in the washing machine and dry it on one of the low settings. We know, nobody likes doing laundry in college, but at least you don’t have to hand-wash it!
Nectar Mattress Protector
Best Bamboo Twin XL Sheets
Grown ups need mattress protectors too, and the Nectar is a great option for adults using a Twin XL mattress.
Reason to Buy: Twin XL mattresses can also be a good choice for adults, as two can be put together to create a King size mattress. If this is your situation, we recommend using a mattress protector on each of your Twin XL’s. The Nectar Mattress Protector is high quality, waterproof, and easy to clean, just in case you spill something in bed. Plus, the natural cotton construction makes for a breathable sleep experience when paired with the proper mattress.
Nest Bedding Organic Mattress Protector
Best Organic Twin XL Mattress Protector
For eco-conscious shoppers, the Nest Bedding Organic Mattress protector provides peace of mind through its organic construction.
Reason to Buy: The Nest is made with two layers of organic jersey cotton that’s GOTS Certified, meaning it meets strict criteria that deems it as having been constructed in an environmentally friendly manner. On top of that, this Twin XL mattress protector has a pleasantly soft feel and a protective waterproof layer, so you’re comforted while your mattress is protected.
Why Buy a Mattress Protector?
A mattress protector will guard your bed from spills, stains, and dust mites. So, you might think that you don’t need one if you keep yourself and your environment clean. The truth is, however, all humans produce oil; we all sweat; we all shed skin cells. All of these things can wear down the integrity of your mattress, cause it to appear dirty, and even void the warranty if it’s bad enough.
Now, since we’re talking specifically about Twin XL mattress protectors, it’s probably worth discussing two of the primary customers for this size accessory: college students and kids. Not to generalize, but both of these demographics might be more prone to make a mess of their bed—whether they’re munching on messy snacks, drinking coffee while studying, haven’t washed in a couple of days, or all of the above. For these reasons, a Twin XL mattress protector is especially called for.
If you’re still not convinced, check out our article on whether or not you need a mattress protector.
What to Look for in a Mattress Protector?
It depends on your specific needs. If you’re buying a mattress protector for your child’s bed, or you’re a college student looking to take care of your dorm mattress, we would say that you’ll want to look for a product that is somewhat affordable, waterproof, and machine-washable.
However, the more money you’re willing to spend the more you can get out of your mattress protector. Some expensive mattress protectors include conductive materials that help draw heat away from your body as you sleep. You also might find that the more you spend, the more luxurious and silky your protector feels. But, for the purposes of a Twin XL mattress, you probably don’t need anything too high-tech.
Mattress Protector vs. Mattress Pad
If you already have a mattress pad and think that means you don’t need a mattress protector, well, you might be right. Typically, a mattress pad’s purpose is to add comfort to your sleeping situation, while a mattress protector shields your mattress from spills, stains, dust mites, and other damaging factors.
There are plenty of high-quality mattress pads that also function as informal mattress protectors because they have hypoallergenic and waterproof properties. If your mattress is new and still has all the support and comfort you need, then a mattress protector is probably the way to go. If you’re looking to add comfort to an older mattress while also shielding it from further damage, consider a mattress pad.
To learn a bit more, check out our article on mattress pads vs. mattress protectors.
