Once you’ve invested in a new mattress and pillows, you’ll want to protect them from daily wear and any accidents that may happen. Follow this guide to find out more about the types of bedding protection available such as mattress toppers and mattress protectors, and how to care for them to ensure they last.
Another product that does exactly what it says on the tin – a mattress protector is used to protect your mattress from spills and bodily fluids. It’s also designed to protect the sleeper from allergens and irritants such as dust mites, bed bugs, and mould.
Although mattress protectors are an optional piece of bedding, we highly recommend purchasing one. As mentioned, they are designed to be an extra layer between you and your mattress, which can stop sweat, dust, and food spills from seeping into your mattress. As a mattress protector can be easily removed and washed, they are much more practical, especially if you have a memory foam mattress, which needs to be protected from liquids and cannot be cleaned as easily.
Mattress protectors mainly vary by their fabrics and different styles offer different benefits – whether that be for anti-allergy or repelling liquids. Here are the different types of mattress protectors we have at Dreams:
Most mattress protectors can be machine washed, but always check the instructions on the care label. We advise that you wash your mattress protector as often as you wash your bed linen, which should be once every 1-2 weeks.
A mattress topper sits on top of your mattress and acts as an extra layer of comfort and support. It’s also designed to be a protective shield for the springs and/or fillings within your mattress. It can prolong the life of your mattress because it helps to reduce pressure on the internal layers and delays the general daily wear of the surface.
Mattress toppers are also a great option if you find that your mattress isn't comfortable enough but you're not in the position to buy a new one. A high-quality mattress topper can transform your bed. This makes them a great choice for student halls or rental properties that come furnished.
Mattress toppers mainly vary by their filling and different styles have different benefits – whether that be for comfort, to alleviate aches and pains, or to help make your mattress last longer. The best mattress topper for you very much depends on your personal preferences. Here are the different types of mattress toppers we have at Dreams:
Due to pressure points and the risk of a numb arm and spine misalignment, side sleepers are best suited to softer mattress toppers that give cushioning and allow your body to sink slightly into the mattress. We recommend a memory foam mattress topper if you’re a side sleeper.
Getting the right support for stomach sleepers can be difficult. Someone who sleeps on their front requires support to prevent their torso from sinking into the mattress and arching their back too much, but also a softness to cushion chest and hips. We recommend a firm, but cushioning Latex mattress topper for front sleepers.
Sleeping on your back is beneficial for your spine’s alignment as it’s easier for you to remain in a neutral position. Compared to side sleepers, those who sleep on their back require firmer support to prevent their midsection from sinking in. We recommend a thinner mattress topper for back sleepers so that the support of your mattress remains prevalent.
Many different things can cause back pain. If you find your back hurts after waking up, your sleeping position and mattress are possible causes. Back pain can occur if your mattress is too soft or too firm and the right mattress topper can help to ease the pain but will not necessarily resolve it completely.
If your mattress is too soft and you’re sinking into it with no support, a firm mattress topper may help a little but it’s likely that you need a new firmer mattress to support you fully.
If your mattress is too firm, a soft mattress topper made from memory foam or Latex may help to add an extra layer of comfort and take the pressure off your back pain.
Find out more about how to prevent back pain while sleeping.
The sockets of your hips are affected by the support your mattress gives you. In the past it was believed that firm mattresses and toppers were best for hip pain sufferers, however, throughout the last few years, this has been proven to be wrong as there is no one size that fits all.
Hip joints are pressure points. They’re pressed significantly deeper into the mattress and this is what sometimes causes aches and pains if you have the wrong support.
If your mattress is too soft and your hips are sinking in too far, a firm mattress may help to alleviate the pain. Alternatively, if your mattress is too firm and your hips are misaligning your spine when sleeping on your side, a soft memory foam mattress topper could help you sink in a little and feel more comfortable.
While your mattress is likely to last around eight years, mattress toppers do not have a long lifespan. Due to them being a lot thinner than a mattress, they’re more susceptible to wear and tear. Depending on which type you choose and how well you take care of it, your mattress topper will last from 12-36 months before it needs replacing.
Some mattress toppers can be easily machine washed, and some come with a removable cover that can be washed and even tumble dried. If you’re unsure, check the care instructions on the topper’s label.
It’s important to keep your topper clean to increase the longevity and protection of your mattress. Wash the topper or cover once every 1-2 weeks to prevent dirt and grease from getting through to the mattress.
Pillow protectors will shield your pillows from daily wear and tear, and they’ll also provide a healthier sleeping environment. This is because they help to repel fluids (which could otherwise lead to mould and mildew) and they also help to keep dust mites and bed bugs at bay.
Pillow protectors mainly vary by their fabrics and different styles offer different benefits – whether that be for anti-allergy or keeping you cool. Here are the different types of pillow protectors we have at Dreams and their benefits:
Pillow protectors can be machine washed and some tumble dried. If you’re unsure, check the care instructions on the label. It’s important to keep your pillow protectors clean to increase their longevity and ensure they remain efficient. Since pillow protectors are near your face, pillow protectors and pillowcases should be kept clean as they can contribute to skin breakouts and greasy hair. Wash them along with your bed linen once every 1-2 weeks to prevent dirt and grease from getting through to your pillows.
We run through why you should clean your mattress, how often and a step by step guide to clean your mattress.
Find out which pillow is best for you and your sleeping position.
This guide looks at everything you need to consider, including when to replace your mattress, how to take care of your mattress, plus general maintenance tips ensuring you get a great night’s sleep.
