At A Glance
Learn how to install your mattress protector correctly for maximum comfort and protection. Ensure the right side faces up to safeguard against spills and allergens.
Quick Tips
- Check The Labels: Look for tags that indicate the "top" side.
- Feel The Fabric: The softer side should face up; the rougher side goes down.
- Examine The Seams: A more pronounced seam typically indicates the underside
If you're new to using a mattress protector, you might find yourself asking, "Which side of the mattress protector goes up?" or "How do you put on a mattress protector?" Don't worry, you're not alone.
Ensuring it fits properly is essential to protect your bed from dust, spills, bed bugs, and general wear. In this guide, we'll walk you through the process, share some easy installation tips, and help you avoid common beginner mistakes.
How To Put On Cover For Mattress Protector?
First, let us explain simply before we delve into the specifics about which side of the mattress cover should go up. It's pretty easy to put on a mattress protector if you follow these steps:
- Unfold the mattress cover fully to check its shape and size.
- Align it with the bed, ensuring that it is positioned correctly.
- If it’s a fitted protector with elastic edges, stretch it over the corners of the bed like a fitted sheet.
- For a zippered encasement, unzip the protector, slide it over the mattress, and then zip it back up securely.
- Finally, add your fitted sheet and flat sheet, along with other bedding items such as a duvet cover or blanket, to complete the look and make your bed inviting.
Now you know how to use a mattress protector, this is the correct way to put your cover in place. Once you have done so, you will be able to have protection and comfort while you sleep.
Which Side Up For Your Mattress Protector?
Most people get it wrong about where the mattress protector should face up. It all depends on the material and type of protector. Check out some quick tips on how to identify:
- Touch And Feel: Run your hand lightly over both sides of your cover. The side that is gentler to the touch, smooth, velvety-like fabric should go up, and the side that would feel slick or rubbery should go down.
- Look For Tags: Some protectors have labels on which the "top" or "bottom" side is written. If your protector has labels, they should serve as good guidelines as to which side should be placed up.
- Check The Sewing: Many waterproof protectors have different sewing patterns or seams that can help differentiate the top from the bottom. More often than not, a seam will be more prominent on the side that should go down.
Let’s break it down into two main categories and explore how to approach each one effectively.
Using Non-Waterproof Mattress Protectors
To easily identify the correct side of non-waterproof mattress covers, keep an eye out for these key features:
- Soft Texture: The top side boasts materials like bamboo or TENCEL™, providing a soft, luxurious feel against your skin.
- Pattern Or Design: Check for any decorative patterns, colours, or finishes, as these are usually found on the top side, adding a touch of visual appeal.
- Dull Appearance: The underside often has a shinier or smoother finish, particularly if it’s designed to grip the mattress. If one side appears less inviting or has a more utilitarian vibe, you can bet that’s the bottom side.
Using Waterproof Mattress Protectors
Waterproof mattress protectors remain another popular choice for families, pet owners, as well as any individual who desires to guard a mattress from water spills or stains. Here is what you should know about orientation:
- Top Surface: The soft, smooth woven fabric, usually made from cotton or TENCEL™, should always be facing upwards. When you buy a quality mattress protector, you'll benefit from all the fantastic features on the top of the cover. Take Weavve’s mattress protector, for instance; the top layer provides a whisper-quiet experience, regulates temperature, and combats dust mites, ensuring a far better night's sleep.
- Bottom Side: The shiny, rubbery side should be facing down. By investing in the best waterproof mattress protector, you'll enjoy a dependable waterproof layer for your bed while ensuring a peaceful night's sleep, free from any annoying crinkling sounds.
If your protector has a plastic layer, you may be asking, “Does the plastic side go up or go down?” The plastic side should face down against the bed to ensure its waterproof function. One thing to mention that might not relate to the installation is how you feel about the plastic cover.
Some covers made from vinyl or synthetic materials can be crinkly and might cause you to sweat during the night. If you find these uncomfortable, it’s a good idea to consider alternatives. Look for protectors made of materials like polyurethane, which offer waterproof protection while ensuring a restful night’s sleep.
Why Properly Installing Your Mattress Protector Matters
Alignment of your cover is important not just for comfort; it affects how well it performs in the long run. Here’s why you should install a mattress protector and why it matters:
- Enhanced Protection: It forms a dependable barrier against spills, dust mites, and allergens. It keeps the mattress hygienic to prevent unwanted odours, mould, and bacteria from forming.
- Improved Comfort: When fitted correctly, the protector becomes smooth and wrinkle-free. This prevents all that bunching and lumpy textures under the sheets, which could prove to give you a better sleeping experience.
- Prevents Damage: Proper installation keeps any moisture or stains from entering the mattress. These might cause damage to the mattress through wearing it out and may also affect its support and appearance in the coming years.
What Order Do You Put Mattress Protectors On?
If you're using a full set of bedding, here’s how to put your mattress protector on:
- Mattress Protector: Start with the bed cover as your first layer to shield the mattress from spills, dust, and allergens.
- Mattress Topper And Mattress Pad: If you want additional comfort, place the topper on top of the protector, followed by the mattress pad for enhanced cushioning and support.
- Fitted Sheet: After that, cover everything with a fitted sheet to keep it all in place and provide a soft surface.
- Flat Sheet: Lay a flat sheet on top of the fitted sheet for added comfort and to create a barrier between you and the blankets.
- Other Bedding Items: Finally, add any additional bedding items, such as blankets, duvets, or decorative pillows, to complete your sleep setup.
How To Use A Bed Cover: Further Tips
If you take heed of these further tips, using a bed cover or mattress protector is easy:
- Use with other bedding: A bed cover or mattress protector will go well with other bedding items, like a mattress topper, quilt, duvet, or comforter. Be sure each layer is in the right order for ultimate comfort and protection.
- Check For Allergens: If allergies are a concern for you, consider a hypoallergenic cover like our TENCEL™ Mattress Protector. It’s OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 certified, ensuring it’s safe for both you and your little one while helping to alleviate allergy symptoms.
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Maintenance Of Proper Care: To minimise wear and tear and ensure your cover remains effective, it's essential to wash your mattress protector regularly, following the manufacturer's recommendations. This not only keeps it clean but also extends its lifespan, allowing you to enjoy its benefits for longer.
Key Takeaway
Installing a mattress protector correctly, with the soft fabric side facing up and the waterproof layer facing down, maximises protection and provides a comfortable, breathable surface for restful sleep.
If you’re choosing a mattress protector and want one that’s easy to fit, we highly recommend the TENCEL™ Mattress Protector. Its design allows you to effortlessly slip it over your mattress, ensuring a secure fit that won’t budge. Plus, it combines all the protection and comfort you need for a wonderfully restful night.