Mattress Protector vs Fitted Sheet: Comparison Guide

September 25, 2024 | Casper Editorial Team

Fact checked by Jonathan Eilenberg, CPE

A mattress protector shields your mattress from spills, stains, and allergens, while a fitted sheet provides a soft, comfortable surface for sleeping. The protector focuses on protection, while the fitted sheet enhances comfort and appearance.


A comfortable and hygienic sleep environment can transport you to a world of better rest. 

For that, there are two items to keep in your nighttime arsenal: mattress protectors and fitted sheets.

A mattress protector is designed to fend your mattress from unwanted intruders, while a fitted sheet provides a comfortable and stylish layer for sleeping, keeping you cozy while enhancing your bedroom’s aesthetic. Nonetheless, both items are essential for a good night’s sleep. 

Whether you’re guarding against spills, allergens, or simply ensuring a snug fit, understanding the difference between a mattress protector vs fitted sheet is key to crafting your perfect sleep sanctuary. Pull up your covers, and let’s dive in.

What is a Mattress Protector?

So, what is a mattress protector? It is a thin, breathable barrier designed to shield your mattress from various harmful substances, including moisture, dirt, and allergens. Mattress protectors typically feature an elastic edge, similar to a fitted bed sheet, ensuring a snug fit over your mattress without adding significant bulk.

Purpose and Benefits

Here’s a glimpse at the superpowers a mattress protector brings to your bed:

  • Protection against stains – Mattress protectors shield your bed from spills, sweat, and other liquids that could wreak havoc on your mattress. They’re not just about cleanliness — they’re also crucial for preserving the warranty of a new mattress, ensuring your investment stays protected and covered.
  • Allergen defense – Allergens, like dust mites, can cause a range of symptoms, from a runny nose to itchy, watery eyes.1 Fortunately, mattress protectors act as a barrier against dust mites, bacteria, and other allergens, helping to create a cleaner, healthier sleep environment that keeps you breathing easy night after night. Learn more about the best sheets for allergies in our blog.
  • Extended mattress life – By guarding against wear and tear, mattress protectors can dramatically extend the lifespan of your mattress, saving you money and ensuring that your bed remains a comfortable haven for years to come.
  • Temperature regulation – Many mattress protectors are designed with breathable materials that help regulate body temperature, ensuring a comfortable sleep. The Casper Breathable Mattress Protector weaves polyester, tencel, and spandex for a cooling sleep experience.

A mattress protector is a versatile ally, offering a range of benefits to keep your bed clean, comfortable, and well-maintained. With so much to gain, it’s worth taking the time to find the perfect protector that matches your specific needs.

Types of Mattress Protectors

Here’s a quick rundown of the main types of mattress protectors, helping you choose the one that best aligns with your nighttime needs and keeps your sleep sanctuary in top shape:

  • Waterproof mattress protectors – These protectors feature a waterproof layer, often made from materials like polyurethane or vinyl, that prevents liquids from penetrating the mattress. They’re ideal for households with children or pets, as they guard against spills, accidents, and moisture, ensuring your mattress remains clean and dry. The Casper Waterproof Mattress Protector combines polyester and thermoplastic polyurethane for added protection.
  • Non-waterproof mattress protectors – While not completely waterproof, these protectors are water-resistant and can handle minor spills. They provide a level of protection against moisture and are typically made from breathable fabrics, making them suitable for those who want some protection without the added bulk of a waterproof layer.
  • Encasement protectors – Designed to cover the entire mattress, including the sides and bottom, encasement protectors offer maximum protection against allergens, dust mites, and bed bugs. They can be a great option for allergy sufferers, as they create a barrier that prevents these irritants from entering the mattress.
  • Cooling mattress protectors – Designed with temperature-regulating materials, a cooling mattress protector helps keep you cool and comfortable throughout the night.

By keeping your bed clean and dry, choosing the right type of mattress protector can significantly enhance your sleep quality and prolong the life of your mattress.

What is a Fitted Sheet?

A fitted sheet is a type of bed sheet that has elasticized corners, allowing it to fit snugly over the mattress. Unlike flat sheets, fitted sheets are designed to stay in place, providing a smooth and comfortable sleeping surface. Learn more about a fitted vs flat sheet in our blog.

Purpose and Benefits

Here’s a snapshot of what fitted sheets bring to the table (and why you might want to grab one for your own mattress):

  • Comfort – Fitted sheets provide a soft and smooth surface to sleep on, enhancing the overall comfort of your bed. Pairing them with a mattress pad or comfy mattress topper can add extra comfort and support.
  • Neat appearance – Fitted sheets help maintain a tidy look for your bed, as they stay securely in place and don’t bunch up.
  • Ease of use – Fitted sheets are easy to put on and take off, making bed-making a quick and hassle-free task.

Fitted sheets combine functionality, comfort, and aesthetics, making them a must-have for any bed.

Types of Fitted Sheets

When it comes to fitted sheets, there’s more variety than you might think. Choosing the right type can make a big difference in your overall sleep experience. 

With that in mind, let’s dive into the various types of fitted sheets available, so you can discover the perfect match for your bed and sleep style:

  • Standard fitted sheets – These are the most common type of fitted sheets, and they’re designed to fit regular mattresses, typically with a depth of about 14 inches. They’re crafted from various materials, including cotton and polyester blends, making them a fantastic everyday sheet.
  • Deep pocket fitted sheets – If you have a thicker mattress — maybe one with added padding or a pillow-top — you’ll want deep pocket fitted sheets. These sheets can accommodate mattresses that are 16 to 22 inches deep, ensuring a snug fit that keeps your sheets in place throughout the night.
  • Adjustable bed fitted sheets – For those with adjustable beds, these fitted sheets are specially designed to stretch and move with the bed’s ever-changing positions. They often feature extra elastic or a more flexible fabric, ensuring they stay in place no matter how you adjust your sleeping position. Check out our line of adjustable bed frames!
  • Luxury fitted sheets – If you’re looking to elevate your sleep experience, luxury fitted sheets made from high-quality materials like Egyptian cotton or bamboo are worth considering. They offer softness and durability, making your bed feel like a five-star hotel.
  • Cooling fitted sheets – For hot sleepers, cooling fitted sheets are a game-changer. Made from breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics, these sheets help regulate your body temperature, keeping you comfortable throughout the night. Our Hyperlite™ collection features the best sheets for hot sleepers.

With so many options available, you can easily find the perfect fitted sheet to match your mattress and personal preferences, ensuring a cozy and restful night’s sleep.

Key Differences Between Mattress Protectors and Fitted Sheets

While mattress protectors and fitted sheets are both must-haves for your bedroom, they each play a unique role and come with their own set of features. 

Here’s a clear-cut breakdown of the key differences between these essential items.

Material and Design

Mattress protectors are typically made from materials designed to provide a barrier against spills, allergens, and dust mites. Common materials include waterproof fabrics like polyurethane, cotton, or polyester blends. They often have a fitted design that wraps around the mattress, similar to fitted sheets, but they may also feature zippers for full encasement.

On the other hand, fitted sheets are primarily made from softer fabrics like cotton, linen, or microfiber, focusing on comfort and breathability. Learn more about cotton vs microfiber sheets and cotton vs linen sheets in our blog.

They come in various thread counts and textures, allowing you to choose based on your personal preference for softness and warmth. Fitted sheets are designed to fit snugly over the mattress, with elastic corners to keep them in place during the night.

Functionality and Use

The primary function of a mattress protector is to safeguard your mattress from spills, stains, and allergens. It acts as a barrier, extending the life of your mattress and maintaining a clean sleeping environment. Many protectors are also hypoallergenic, making them ideal for allergy sufferers.

In contrast, fitted sheets are all about comfort. They provide a soft surface to sleep on and come in various styles and colors to enhance your bedroom decor. While they do offer some level of protection against dust and dirt, they don’t provide the same level of waterproofing or allergen defense as mattress protectors.

Maintenance and Care

Mattress protectors generally require less frequent washing than fitted sheets, since they’re designed to shield the mattress. However, they should be cleaned according to the manufacturer’s instructions to maintain their protective qualities. Learn how to wash a mattress protector in our blog.

Instead, fitted sheets need regular washing, typically every one to two weeks, to keep them fresh and hygienic. They can be machine-washed and dried, making them easy to maintain.

When to Use a Mattress Protector

Investing in a mattress protector can support your sleep by providing an extra layer of protection for your mattress. But when exactly should you use one? Let’s explore the key reasons and specific scenarios where a mattress protector is essential.

Protection Needs

One of the primary reasons to use a mattress protector is to safeguard your mattress from spills and stains. If you enjoy breakfast in bed or have young children or pets, accidents are bound to happen. A waterproof mattress protector can prevent liquids from seeping into the mattress, which can lead to mold, mildew, and unpleasant odors.

Additionally, if you suffer from allergies, a mattress protector is a must. Many protectors are designed to be hypoallergenic, blocking dust mites, pet dander, and other allergens that can accumulate in your mattress over time.2

Specific Scenarios

There are several specific scenarios where using a mattress protector is particularly beneficial. For instance, if you’ve recently purchased a new mattress, using a protector right away can help maintain its condition and warranty.

Another scenario is during seasonal changes. If you live in a humid climate, a mattress protector can help prevent moisture buildup, which can attract pests and allergens. Similarly, if you’re moving or storing your mattress, a protector can shield it from dust and damage.

When to Use a Fitted Sheet

Fitted sheets are a staple in any bedding setup, providing both comfort and functionality. Here’s a look at how they can support your comfort needs and when to use them.

Comfort Needs

Fitted sheets are designed to create a soft, cozy surface for sleeping. Made from various materials like cotton, linen, or microfiber, they come in different thread counts and textures, allowing you to choose what feels best against your skin. 

A high-quality fitted sheet can enhance your sleep experience by providing breathability and softness, making it easier to drift off into a restful snooze.

Specific Scenarios

There are several scenarios where fitted sheets shine. For instance, if you’re hosting guests, having fresh, clean fitted sheets on the beds is crucial for a welcoming atmosphere. They’re also perfect for seasonal changes — switching to lighter fitted and flat sheets in the summer can keep you cool, while flannel sheets in the winter provide warmth.

Additionally, if you have kids or pets, fitted sheets can help protect your mattress from dirt and spills, especially when paired with a mattress protector. 

Choosing the Right Bedding with Casper

Ultimately, the winning strategy is to embrace both: a mattress protector for unbeatable protection and a fitted sheet for ultimate comfort. By pairing these two essentials, you can craft a sleep space that’s cozy, clean, and irresistibly inviting, setting the stage for truly restful nights.

At Casper, we believe in investing in high quality bedding that transforms your sleep experience. 

Our mattress protectors offer top-tier defense against spills and allergens, while our bed sheets sets combine plush materials with impeccable fit to elevate your comfort. Together, they create a sleep environment that’s not just functional, but exceptional.

Sleep comfortably with Casper.

Sources: 

  1. Mayo Clinic. Dust Mite Allergy. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dust-mites/symptoms-causes/syc-20352173 
  2. Cleveland Clinic. Does Hypoallergenic Bedding Work? https://health.clevelandclinic.org/do-hypoallergenic-pillow-and-mattress-covers-really-work