Quick Answer: The Health Guard Bamboo Plus mattress protector uses 70% bamboo viscose with a breathable waterproof membrane, five-sided protection, and built-in NO-MITE allergen barrier. It is one of the better mid-to-upper-range waterproof protectors available in Canada, combining natural fibre softness with allergy protection in one product. Available at Leon's, National Mattress, and other Canadian retailers.
In This Guide
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What Is the Health Guard Bamboo Plus?
Health Guard makes two bamboo protector versions: the standard Bamboo and the Bamboo Plus. The Bamboo Plus is the more complete offering, adding NO-MITE allergen barrier technology on top of the waterproof and breathable features found in the base model.
Health Guard has been making bed protection products in Canada since 1991. The Bamboo Plus is one of their more popular models, found at Leon's, National Mattress, The Mattress Store, and other Canadian retailers. It occupies a position between the entry-level Cool Silk and the premium Tencel model in their lineup.
The combination of bamboo-derived fabric with allergen protection makes it appealing for a broader range of sleepers than a standard waterproof cover, particularly those with allergies or dust mite sensitivity.
Bamboo Fabric: What It Actually Means
The Bamboo Plus uses 70% bamboo viscose (also called bamboo rayon) combined with other fibres. It is worth understanding what this means, because "bamboo" in bedding products is sometimes misunderstood.
Bamboo viscose starts as bamboo plant material but goes through a chemical process to convert the raw plant fibres into a soft textile fibre. The end result is a smooth, breathable fabric, but it is not the raw bamboo plant itself. The environmental footprint depends heavily on how the chemical process is managed by the manufacturer.
What the bamboo-derived fabric does deliver is genuine performance benefits:
- Softness: Bamboo viscose has a smooth, silky feel that is noticeably softer than standard cotton or polyester covers.
- Breathability: The fibre structure allows air movement, which helps prevent heat and moisture buildup at the sleep surface.
- Moisture-wicking: Bamboo viscose absorbs moisture from the skin and transfers it away, helping manage the natural perspiration that happens during sleep.
- Temperature regulation: The Jacquard CoolSleep weave used in the Bamboo Plus enhances airflow, contributing to a cooler sleep surface than non-breathable covers.
Moisture Management and Sleep: Research published in the Journal of Thermal Biology found that elevated skin moisture at the sleep surface increases the frequency of sleep stage transitions and reduces deep sleep duration. Moisture-wicking fabrics that keep the sleep surface drier contribute to more continuous, restorative sleep cycles.
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NO-MITE Allergen Protection
One notable feature of the Bamboo Plus over basic bamboo protectors is the inclusion of Health Guard's NO-MITE barrier technology. This refers to a tightly constructed barrier within the protector that resists penetration by dust mites, pollen, and pet dander.
Dust mites are a primary indoor allergen trigger. They are microscopic, invisible to the naked eye, and thrive in the warm, humid microclimate of an unprotected mattress. Standard waterproof protectors block liquid but may not block allergen particles. The NO-MITE feature adds this layer of protection.
This is particularly relevant for Canadians who suffer from allergic rhinitis, asthma, or eczema, where reducing exposure to dust mite allergens during sleep can meaningfully affect symptom levels.
Dust Mites and Allergic Disease: The Asthma Society of Canada estimates that up to 20% of Canadians suffer from allergic rhinitis. Dust mite allergens are among the most common triggers. A review in Allergy (2011) found that physical barrier covers on mattresses and pillows reduce allergen exposure, though they work best as part of a broader allergen reduction approach that includes regular washing and HEPA vacuuming.
Five-Sided Protection Design
The Bamboo Plus uses a five-sided protection design, meaning protection extends not just across the sleeping surface (top) but also down all four sides of the mattress. This is more comprehensive than top-only protectors, which can allow liquids or allergens to penetrate through the uncovered sides.
The fitted skirt wraps around the mattress and secures underneath, ensuring the protector stays in place even on thicker mattress profiles. Specific pocket depth should be confirmed when purchasing, as this can vary.
Dorothy, Sleep Specialist at Mattress Miracle: "When customers ask about protectors for kids' beds or for someone with allergies, I think the five-sided designs are worth the conversation. Top-only protection is better than nothing, but if you're spending money on a mattress, it makes sense to protect more than just the surface you sleep on."
Bamboo Plus vs Tencel vs Cool Silk: How They Compare
| Feature | Bamboo Plus | Tencel | Cool Silk |
|---|---|---|---|
| Top fabric | 70% bamboo viscose | Tencel lyocell | Silky polyester |
| Natural origin fibre | Partially (bamboo-derived) | Yes (wood pulp) | No |
| Moisture wicking | Good | Excellent | Moderate |
| NO-MITE protection | Yes (Plus version) | Varies by model | No |
| Five-sided design | Yes | Varies | No |
| Best for | Allergy + natural fibre | Hot sleepers, sensitive skin | Basic waterproofing, budget |
The Tencel model edges ahead for hot sleepers because lyocell is more effective at moisture management than bamboo viscose. The Bamboo Plus is a better fit when allergen protection matters alongside natural fibre preference. The Cool Silk works when budget is the primary concern and allergen or cooling features are not a priority.
Who Should Buy the Health Guard Bamboo Plus
The Bamboo Plus makes sense for:
- Allergy or asthma sufferers who want a waterproof protector with built-in dust mite barrier
- Buyers who prefer natural or natural-derived fibres over synthetic options
- Parents protecting children's mattresses where both waterproofing and allergen reduction matter
- Pet owners who want broader protection against dander and moisture
- Moderate-warm sleepers who want a breathable natural-fibre option without going to the premium Tencel tier
The Bamboo Plus is less ideal for very hot sleepers who need maximum moisture management (the Tencel or Cool Ice is better), or for buyers seeking only basic waterproofing without the allergen protection (the Cool Silk is more affordable for that need alone).
Mattress Miracle carries mattress protectors in our Brantford showroom. If you are not sure which model fits your mattress and sleep situation, come in and we can talk it through. We have been matching Brantford families with the right bedding since 1997. Call us at (519) 770-0001 or visit at 441 1/2 West Street.
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We are a family-owned mattress store in Brantford, helping our community sleep better since 1997. Come try mattresses in person and get honest, no-pressure advice.
441 1/2 West Street, Brantford, Ontario
Call 519-770-0001Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Health Guard Bamboo and Bamboo Plus?
The Bamboo Plus includes NO-MITE allergen barrier technology and typically features a five-sided protection design, while the base Bamboo model focuses primarily on waterproofing with bamboo-derived fabric. If allergen protection is a priority, the Plus version is the more complete choice.
Is the Health Guard Bamboo protector truly waterproof?
Yes. The Bamboo Plus uses a breathable waterproof membrane underneath the bamboo fabric layer. This blocks liquids from reaching the mattress while allowing air exchange, making it both waterproof and breathable, unlike older vinyl-backed covers.
Does the NO-MITE barrier kill dust mites?
No. NO-MITE refers to a physical barrier that prevents dust mites from penetrating the mattress surface, not a chemical treatment. Dust mites already in the mattress are not affected, but the barrier significantly reduces new allergen exposure during sleep.
How do I wash the Health Guard Bamboo Plus?
Machine wash in warm water and tumble dry on low to medium heat. Avoid high heat, bleach, and dry cleaning, as these can damage the waterproof membrane. Bamboo viscose fabrics also benefit from gentler wash cycles to maintain their softness over time.
Where can I buy the Health Guard Bamboo Plus in Canada?
The Health Guard Bamboo Plus is available at Leon's, National Mattress, The Mattress Store, Mattress Mart, and other Canadian bedding retailers. Availability varies by location. Contact your local retailer to confirm stock before visiting.
Sources
- National Mattress Canada. HealthGuard Organic Bamboo Mattress Protector. nationalmattress.ca
- Leon's. Platinum Queen Health Guard Bamboo. leons.ca
- Asthma Society of Canada. Allergen Reduction Guidelines. asthma.ca
- Calderon, M.A., et al. (2011). "Allergen immunotherapy and dust mite avoidance." Allergy, 66(8), 968-978.
- Okamoto-Mizuno, K. & Mizuno, K. (2012). "Effects of thermal environment on sleep quality." Journal of Thermal Biology, 37(6), 499-507.
Visit Our Brantford Showroom
We are located at 441½ West Street in downtown Brantford. Free parking available. Our team does not work on commission, so you get honest advice based on your needs.
Mattress Miracle , 441½ West Street, Brantford, ON · (519) 770-0001
Hours: Monday–Wednesday 10am–6pm, Thursday–Friday 10am–7pm, Saturday 10am–5pm, Sunday 12pm–4pm.