With incontinence comes embarrassment, and most seniors are embarrassed about not having proper control over their bladders. In fact, incontinence, bedwetting, and night sweats are some of the most common issues that prevent older adults from getting enough sleep at night.
This article will walk you through some of the most important features of high-quality waterproof mattress protectors and recommend some of the best products on the market today to protect your bedding and keep you cool at night.
The Best Waterproof Mattress Protectors For Seniors & Elderly
So, if you want to protect yourself and your mattress from moisture, here are my recommended waterproof mattress covers for older adults.
This cooling mattress pad from Cool-Jams might just be the best of both worlds – especially if you are a hot sleeper. This is because, with this product, you get both a moisture-wicking and cooling mattress pad AND the protection of a waterproof mattress protector.
Many waterproof mattress pads tend to generate heat because their fluid-proof layer prevents the natural cooling airflow that moves through your bedding. This pad provides a cool sleeping experience using a phase-changing material that regulates your sleep temperature and wicks away moisture.
But, you still get the benefits of a fluid-proof layer that prevents sweat and body fluids from penetrating and soaking into your mattress. It even provides a breathable barrier against dust mites and other allergens.
Made of eco-friendly fabric, it is machine washable, hypoallergenic, odor and bacteria-resistant. Plus, it is soft and comfortable to sleep on too!
myProtector From Sleep & Beyond
myProtector 2-in-1 Twin Mattress Protector
myProtector From Sleep & Beyond is a high-quality 2-in-1 waterproof mattress protector for seniors. It is waterproof to protect your mattress from spills and stains and wicks away any body moisture to enhance your comfort levels.
Unlike many waterproof mattress pads that are flat and “plastic” feeling, myProtector is thicker, fluffier, and feels more like a standard mattress pad. it is filled with the highest quality 100% organic washable wool for great breathability while adding softness and comfort.
It is easy to clean and ideal for older adults and seniors. This is the best mattress pad for you if you feel overheated or over-cool in your sleep. The fitted skirt will easily accommodate a mattress up to 18 inches. The myProtector Mattress Pad comes with a 10-year warranty and is slightly bigger (approximately 2″ wider and 2″ longer) than the standard US mattress size.
Layla Full Encasement Mattress Protector
Layla Full Encasement Mattress Protector - Queen Size - Bed Bug Protection - Hypollergenic &...
The Layla Full Encasement Mattress Cover is another great waterproof mattress pad for older adults and seniors. It is waterproof and helps protect your mattress from dust mites, dander, dead skin cells, allergens, and spills/accidents. The quiet design of the pad means you don’t have to deal with the sound of crunchy plastic every time you roll over.
This protector fully encases your bed mattress from top to bottom and closes with a six-sided PESTLOC zipper. It helps make sure your mattress is safe from bed bugs as well. In fact, no little critters will get into your bed with this protector on it.
This product is constructed with a super breathable and quiet polyester material that is machine washable and easily dryable. The Layla Full Encasement Mattress Protector improves cooling with highly specialized cooling fibers woven into a textured fabric. The extra padding and hexagon stitching ensure maximum comfort levels.
The Bamboo Mattress Protector From Nolah is waterproof, cooling, and made to fit any bed. The mattress pad helps keep your mattress clean, crisp, and mite-free for longer periods.
In fact, bamboo is naturally cooling and antibacterial and is considered one of the best materials for waterproof bed pads. Cool, smooth, soft, and thin – the Nolah bed pad serves as the last layer of defense on your mattress without altering the plush feel of the mattress.
Bamboo is naturally breathable and won’t trap heat and moisture. It helps prolong the lifespan of your mattress. The bamboo material is paired with a thin TPU underlayer to lock out the liquid and keep your mattress safe from sweat and spills. It is still breathable to keep your bed cool at night.
In fact, soft and smooth bamboo won’t make any noise when you move. You can sleep comfortably and peacefully – and dry – if you choose the Bamboo Mattress Protector From Nolah.
LUCID Premium Hypoallergenic Mattress Protector
Lucid Waterproof Encasement Zippered Mattress Protector Queen
For those looking for an ultra-thin, breathable, quiet, hypoallergenic, and waterproof mattress cover that also promises to keep you cool during your sleep, the LUCID premium mattress protector is definitely worth considering. This mattress protector is made with a soft terry cloth that sits over a waterproof polyurethane lining.
This protector, which also acts as a barrier against dust mites, bacteria, and other common allergens, comes in an elasticized-sheet design that comfortably and easily fits mattresses that are up to 22 inches high. Matching protective pillow covers are also available.
This is not your average waterproof mattress protector because the product carries a higher price tag than its competitors. However, the quality of the materials and construction of the Saatva justify its higher price. The pad is quite comfortable and protective at the same time. The pad is made of organic cotton, which is more soft and breathable than most other materials.
The moisture barrier of the protector has a ventilated design to allow air to pass through while retaining its waterproof qualities. The protector has an elastic band around its entire perimeter to snugly fit on mattresses up to 16″ thick.
The Saatva Mattress Protector is machine washable using a gentle cycle with cold water and tumble dry on a low setting. The company offers a 45-day trial period and a full refund if you return the product within the trial period. It also comes with a one-year warranty.
This mattress protector is designed to act as a highly effective barrier against fluids, dust, and a host of allergens. Made from polyester material, the Four Seasons Essentials mattress cover covers all six sides of your mattress to ensure that nothing gets in or out!
Plus, this product is great for anyone who suffers from allergies as it features hypoallergenic construction and is an effective barrier against dust, bacteria, and other common allergens.
Like other products on this list, this waterproof protector also features a thin polyurethane lining that prevents fluids from getting through. For easy installation, this protector is made to be stretchy.
A zippered closure system that extends to three sides of the cover ensures that the protector remains in place throughout. This product can comfortably fit any mattress that is between 9 and 16 inches high.
What To Look For In A Quality Waterproof Mattress Protector?
There are many factors to look for when purchasing a quality waterproof mattress cover for a senior’s bed. Here are some of the most important factors to consider when shopping for the best waterproof mattress pads.
Quality Materials
The quality of the pad material can affect its performance and durability. A protector that is made using the highest quality materials can stand up to repeated washings and shield your bed for many years to come. On the other hand, pads made of low-quality materials can break down more quickly and jeopardize your comfort and protection levels in the process.
Wool, bamboo, and cotton are some of the best materials for waterproof bed protectors. Cotton is great for easy washing and drying. It also provides a nice soft-hand feel. Wool pads are quite durable and naturally hypoallergenic – and they smell great too. Bamboo is ultra-soft and is one of the best materials for wicking moisture.
Waterproofing
Waterproofing protectors and pads use a special backing material or membrane on the underside of the pad, which acts as a waterproofing barrier to protect your bed space. How the pad is waterproofed can affect the product’s durability and breathability.
Some low-quality pads make noise when the sleeper tosses and turns while sleeping. Polyurethane membranes are some of the best waterproofing materials for bed pads. They are quite thin, breathable, and virtually silent.
Pad Thickness
The right mattress protector shouldn’t affect the firmness level of your sleeping surface because they are generally quite thin. If you want to increase the softness of your sleeping surface, opt for a thicker waterproof mattress pad with a quilted top like the wool-filled pad from Sleep & Beyond.
RELATED: Best Mattress Protectors for Adjustable Beds
Cooling
Many seniors struggle with night sweats issues. Hence, the latest waterproof mattress pads are engineered for better cooling. Even if you have a mattress that traps heat, the right bed pad can make your sleeping surface cooler and improve your sleeping temperature levels at night.
A quality mattress pad has better airflow to help combat excessive heat retention at night. Such mattress pads are ideal for seniors who suffer from night sweats.
Are you thinking, “Wait a minute! I freeze all night!” Then there are heated mattress pads, and some are waterproof too. You can see my guide to the best heated mattress pads for seniors here.
Absorbency
The best waterproof mattress pads are also designed to absorb moisture and dry quickly. Any fluids and moisture will be drawn away from your body and held in the bed pad. It helps protect both your skin and the mattress at the same time. Moisture should be dispersed throughout the pad so that it dries quickly – which helps prevent odor and dampness.
Size
Make sure you select the right size when shopping for the best waterproof mattress pad for your bed. You obviously want the same size as your mattress size.
Mattress Pads Vs. Mattress Toppers: What’s the Difference?
Waterproof Bed Pads Vs. Mattress Protectors
Many older adults wake up in the middle of the night wet from either night sweats, incontinence, or just from being a hot sleeper. Night sweats and urinary incontinence are generally caused by underlying medical conditions like menopause, diabetes, enlarged prostate glands, and certain medications. According to the National Association for Continence, over 33 million older adults in the United States suffer from some type of urinary incontinence.
Disposable and Reusable Bed Pads
Bed pads are designed to protect the mattress from any mishaps due to night sweats, bedwetting, or incontinence problems. The pad is designed to absorb liquids such as sweat and urine that leak overnight. It helps protect your mattress or other surfaces and guarantees a comfortable sleep at night.
Some seniors use bed pads on car seats and wheelchairs as well. Bed pads come in different sizes and can be either washable or disposable. If you’d prefer to use a bed pad instead of covering up your mattress, here are the best bed pads for incontinence based on experience and research.
Mattress Protectors
Waterproof mattress protectors are a simple way to protect your entire mattress and extend its lifespan. Some of these pads are also designed to protect against allergens and dust mites, guaranteeing a cleaner sleep surface. A good mattress pad should defend your sleep space against dirt and moisture without significantly changing the feel of your sleep surface.
Some protectors are designed to add more cushioning to your sleep surface and enhance comfort levels. Any older adult or senior who suffers from urinary incontinence or night sweats can benefit from investing in a quality waterproof bed pad. With such a product, you will be less worried about soiling and damaging your mattress and bed linens. These bed pads provide peace of mind overnight, knowing that your condition won’t affect your sleep.
Conclusion
Waterproof mattress protectors are ideal for seniors suffering from night sweats, incontinence, and bedwetting. A quality waterproof mattress protector should be the foundation of the best bedding and bed linens for older adults. There are many factors to consider when shopping for the best waterproof mattress protectors for seniors.
