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The 10 Best Bed Bug Mattress Covers, Just in Case

First you protec, so they’ll never attac.

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best bed bug mattress covers
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Don’t freak out, but we have to talk about bed bugs. Once bed bugs are in your home, they can get into your clothing, your couch, curtains, carpet, and even that brand-spankin’-new mattress you just bought. But what if we told you there's a solution that can (hopefully) keep bed bugs at bay—or, at the very least, save your precious mattress from getting infested in the first place? Enter: bed bug covers. It might not be a sexy or fun purchase, but trust me—as someone who has had bedbugs not once but twice—it's better to protect yourself and your mattress before you find yourself stuck with dozens of tiny, blood-sucking bedmates.

Bed bug covers are encasements you zip around your entire mattress, and they’re usually made from tightly woven fabric, plastic, or vinyl. According to Changlu Wang, PhD, an entomologist (aka someone who studies bugs super extensively) at Rutgers University specializing in bed bugs, mattress encasements are “highly effective at preventing bed bugs from escaping your mattress if you have an active infestation.” Technically, covers of this kind can only stop bed bugs from escaping your mattress if you already have them, but Wang says they’re still a good preventative measure for anyone who never wants to deal with bed bugs in their home in the first place (so, basically everyone). An encasement’s smooth white surface makes it easy to spot bed bugs, and keeping them from getting into your mattress makes treating an infestation ~way~ more manageable. Real talk: “It’s a lot cheaper to throw out your mattress encasement and buy a new one than it is to throw out your entire mattress and buy a new one,” Wang says.

Our top picks for the best bed bug mattress covers

So whether you’re treating an active infestation or just never want to have one to begin with, your best bet is a bed bug mattress cover. Also, just so we’re clear, bed bugs cannot chew their way out of a good mattress encasement, so we can all stop having nightmares about that. No? Just me? Anyway, without further ado, here’s a list of the best bed bug mattress covers to help you sleep tight without any bed bugs in sight.

Simply Soft Zippered Mattress Protector
Credit: ienjoy Home/Walmart

Pros

  • Fits mattresses up to 18" thick
  • Stain resistant

Cons

  • Can be loose on thinner mattresses

This mattress cover features a double layer, one as a moisture and bug-proof barrier, and another to add softness (so no crinkly sounds!). Think of it as a potential two-in-one mattress cover—soft enough to double as a sheet in a pinch. (Hey, we've all been there.)

SizesTwin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
DepthUp to 18"
MaterialMicrofiber
CareMachine washable
best bed bug mattress cover for pet parents

HOSPITOLOGY PRODUCTS Zippered Bed Bug Proof Sleep Defense System

Zippered Bed Bug Proof Sleep Defense System
Now 15% Off
Credit: Hospitology/Amazon

Pros

  • Waterproof and easy to clean
  • Zipper covers help keep your mattress sealed and safe

Cons

  • Some reviewers noted it trapped heat

If you're prone to spills, this mattress cover is your best bet. Not only is it designed with velcro covers to keep the zippers in place (and help prevent you from becoming a bed bug snack), it's also waterproof, something many reviewers noted helped protect their furniture from spills and/or animal-related accidents.

SizesTwin, Twin XL, Full, Full XL, Queen, King California King
Depths6-8", 9-11", 12-18"
MaterialPolyester
CareMachine washable
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best bed bug mattress cover for those with allergies

AllerEase Ultimate Allergy Protection and Comfort Zippered Mattress Protector

Ultimate Allergy Protection and Comfort Zippered Mattress Protector
Credit: AllerEase

Pros

  • Blocks allergens and dust mites in addition to bed bugs
  • Soft cotton material on top doesn’t sound crinkly
  • Temperature-regulating

Cons

  • Might be more features than you need if you don’t have allergies
  • Fit may be too snug on mattresses thicker than 14 inches

This is the one I have on my mattress, and I don’t have bed bugs, so I guess that means it’s working?! I have bad allergies, so I love that this one blocks 99.9% of household allergens like pollen and dust mites. Because my definition of self care is not sneezing or being bitten by bugs while I snooze. :)

SizesTwin, Full, Queen, King
Depthup to 14"
MaterialsPolyester and Nylon top fabric
CareMachine washable
easiest bed bug mattress cover to put on

SafeRest Zippered Mattress Protector

Zippered Mattress Protector
Now 29% Off
Credit: SafeRest/Amazon

Pros

  • Easy to get on your mattress
  • Machine washable
  • Doesn't sound crinkly

Cons

  • Water-resistant, but not totally waterproof

Many mattress protector encasements have one zippered opening, which is fine, but it makes putting it on feel like you're in a wrestling match you most definitely didn't sign up for. This cover prevents you from breaking a sweat, thanks to a micro-zipper on three sides of the encasement, which makes it easier to install. It's made from cotton terry to keep you nice n' cool too.

SizesTwin, Twin XL, full, Queen, King, California King, Crib
Depth6", 6-9", 9-12", 12-15", 15-18"
MaterialsCotton terry upper, made without PVC, vinyl,
CareMachine washable
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best bed bug mattress cover on a budget

Utopia Bedding Zippered Mattress Encasement

Zippered Mattress Encasement
$18AmazonAlso Consider
Credit: Utopia Bedding

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Waterproof

Cons

  • Some reviews said the knitted polyester made crinkly noises

Made from knitted polyester, this encasement has a waterproof lining that stops any leaks from causing mold or mildew. Even better: its zipper is reinforced to make sure no creepy bugs can plot their escape and/or invasion. Bottom line: This baby gets the job done, and at just $15, you’ll have money left over for those brand new percale sheets you've been eyeing.

SizesTwin, Twin XL, Full, Full XL, Queen, King, California King, Crib
MaterialsPolyester
CareMachine washable
Editor’s Choice
Premium Zippered Six-Sided Cover
Credit: SureGuard/Amazon

Pros

  • 10-year replacement warranty
  • Customize the depth to fit your mattress and avoid extra fabric

Cons

  • Terry cotton top adds a bit of texture that might not be for everyone

Make room in the minivan for this mattress encasement when you head off to college. Sized for the Twin XL beds common in dorms, it’s waterproof and machine-washable—even in those janky dorm basement washing machines. It also has a 10-year replacement warranty, in case you end up hanging out in your undergrad degree takes you *much* longer than you planned for.

Note: this mattress cover is also suitable for non-college students. It comes in a variety of sizes and depths, ensuring the best fit for your mattress and limiting noise-causing friction.

SizesTwin, Twin XL, Full, Full XL, Queen, King, California King, Crib
Depths6-8", 9-12", 13-16", 17-20"
MaterialsCotton terry top, stretch-knit polyester, TPU polyurethane backing
CareMachine washable
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best all-around bed bug mattress cover

Protect-A-Bed AllerZip Smooth Mattress Encasement

AllerZip Smooth Mattress Encasement

Pros

  • Stain proof and waterproof
  • Not noisy or crinkly
  • Protects against common allergens and viruses

Cons

  • Pricier than the others on this list
  • Some reviewers said it made them too warm at night

This is a ~fancy mattress protector~ with a super secure three-sided zipper and patented seal to make sure absolutely no bugs will be joining you once you turn out the lights. It’s made from breathable terry cloth and protects against dust mites, allergens, mold, mildew, pollen, and pet dander. Another cool albeit slightly unexpected feature: it has the Center for Disease Control’s highest level (level 4) of barrier protection, ideally stopping viruses from being able to pass through your mattress.

SizesQueen, King (other sizes are available from alternative sellers)
Depth7-12"
MaterialsPolyurethane
CareMachine washable
best bed bug mattress cover for thick mattresses

LUCID Encasement Mattress Protector

Encasement Mattress Protector

Pros

  • Fits well over most mattresses, including 18-inch ones

Cons

  • Might be too warm for hot sleepers

If your mattress is on the thicc side, this eco-friendly bed bug cover is your new BFF. It works on mattresses up to 18 inches, and its elastic/polyester blend ensures a snug fit around the entire bed. This encasement is also free of yucky stuff like phthalates, vinyl, and PVC.

SizesTwin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
Depthfits 6-18"
MaterialVinyl
CareMachine washable
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the most quiet bed bug mattress cover

Guardmax Zippered Mattress Encasement

Zippered Mattress Encasement
Now 20% Off

Pros

  • Soft, non-crinkling fabric
  • Water-resistant

Cons

  • May not be stain-resistant, according to some reviews

No one's a fan of that crinkling sound that sometimes comes with mattress protector. But this one's made with a polyester that's softer and shouldn't bunch or crunch—just make sure you get the right size to give your mattress a snug fit.

SizesTwin, Twin XL, Full, Full XL, Short Queen, Queen, King, California King
Depths5-7", 9-11", 11-13", 13-14", 15-16"
MaterialPolyester
CareMachine washable
Brentwood Home Organic Waterproof Mattress Protector

Pros

  • Waterproof
  • Organic cotton

Cons

  • Will not protect against bed bugs on its own

Some vinyl mattress covers may not be the softest, so we don't blame you for wanting an extra layer of protection in the form of a soft cotton topper. This one's both organic cotton and waterproof, so spills won't stand a chance.

SizesTwin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
Depth6-16"
MaterialsCotton top and bottom layer with Polyurethane middle layer
CareMachine washable
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Set of 2 Pillow Protectors
Credit: SureGuard/Amazon

Pros

  • Smooth cotton won't be rough on your skin or trap heat
  • Waterproof

Cons

  • Zipper isn't covered, so bed bugs could, theoretically, sneak in or out

Many people might not find pillow protectors necessary, as they can sometimes cost the same as a brand new pillow. However, if you've invested in a really nice and expensive pillow, you're going to want to protect it from bed bugs and other creepy crawlers. This SureGard set of two pillow protectors is a great place to start thanks to its smooth surface, which shouldn't irritate you with extra texture under a pillow case. It also comes in terry cloth, if you prefer a thicker buffer.

SizesStandard, Queen, King, European, Toddler, Body
MaterialsCotton Terry, Cotton, and Smooth Cotton
CareMachine washable

How to choose a bed bug cover

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Look for reinforced, high-quality zippers

“Bed bugs can’t escape a mattress cover generally, but they can if the zipper is broken, or if there’s a small gap at the beginning of the zipper,” Wang says. He suggests looking for encasements with reinforced zippers and a little Velcro flap (sometimes called a zipper seal) that goes over the zipper and prevents it from gaping.

Know your materials

Encasements can be made from fabric, vinyl, or plastic, and they all work, Wang says. What you choose is just a matter of your priorities. If you want something washable that can do several things at once—like protect against allergens and regulate temperature—go for a fabric cover. If you’re on a tight budget, he says vinyl or plastic encasements will do the trick, but they’re more prone to tearing and they’re “not as comfortable” as fabric covers (aka they can be crinklier and warmer). Overall, he suggests, “if you can afford it, it’s generally better to buy a fabric cover,” because they’re breathable, sturdy, and can protect you from more than just bed bugs.

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Is there a bed bug cover that kills bed bugs?

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“If you already have bed bugs in your mattress and you put the cover on, the bed bugs won’t be able to get out,” Wang says. Sadly, there’s no bed bug cover on the market that kills or repels bed bugs outright with something like say, an insecticide, so the only way an encasement will kill bed bugs is if you already have ‘em in your mattress. It’s important to know that bed bugs can be really stubborn, so an encasement might not get rid of them completely. In addition to putting on a bed bug cover, it’s a good idea to have a professional exterminator assess and treat the situation.

How long should you leave a bed bug cover on the mattress?

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Short answer: eternity. Long answer: “Unless it gets dirty or broken, you can continue using it” if you’re just keeping it on your mattress as a preventative measure, Wang says. That said, it’s probably good to give it a wash every now and then so it doesn’t get too grody. If you’ve had a professional treat an active infestation, Wang says that “the rule of thumb is to wait six to eight weeks after all signs of infections have stopped to remove your encasement.”

Okay, yay—we’re officially done talking about bed bugs now!

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best bed bug mattress covers
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