Quick Answer: A mattress cover and a mattress pad are not the same thing, though many people use the terms interchangeably. A mattress cover (or encasement) wraps all six sides for allergy or bed bug protection. A mattress pad is a thin quilted layer for light cushioning and basic protection. A mattress protector fits like a fitted sheet and guards against spills. A topper adds significant sleep-changing thickness.
In This Guide
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The Terminology Problem
If you search "mattress cover" online, you will find everything from zippered encasements to thin fitted protectors to thick foam toppers all listed under similar-sounding names. The mattress industry has never agreed on standard terminology, so retailers, manufacturers, and consumers all use these words differently.
This confusion matters because each product does a completely different job. Buying the wrong one could leave your mattress unprotected from spills, allergens, or pests, or could mean spending money on cushioning you did not need.
Here is how we at Mattress Miracle break it down, based on what each product is actually designed to do.
Mattress Encasement (The True "Mattress Cover")
A mattress encasement is what most people technically mean when they say "mattress cover." It is a zippered sleeve that encloses all six sides of your mattress, including the bottom. You zip it on and the mattress is completely enclosed.
This total enclosure serves specific purposes. It creates a physical barrier that prevents bed bugs from entering or escaping a mattress. For people with severe dust mite allergies or asthma, encasements block the accumulation of mite allergen on the sleep surface. Some are also waterproof.
Encasements are not primarily comfort products. They do not change how your mattress feels and are not particularly thick. The goal is containment and protection.
When you need a mattress encasement: if you have a confirmed bed bug problem in your home (as part of a professional extermination plan), if someone in your household has severe dust mite allergies, or if you are buying a used mattress and want to isolate any potential issues.
Bed Bug Encasements and Extermination
An encasement does not eliminate a bed bug infestation. It traps bugs inside (starving them over 12 to 18 months) and prevents new bugs from colonising the mattress. Professional extermination is always required alongside encasement use. An encasement alone will not resolve an active infestation.
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Mattress Protector
The mattress protector is the product most people actually want when they say "mattress cover." It fits over the top and sides of your mattress like a fitted sheet, usually with elastic around the perimeter to hold it in place. It does not cover the bottom of the mattress.
Mattress protectors are primarily waterproof or water-resistant barriers. They protect against spills, sweat, and other liquid accidents. This protection is significant because moisture penetrating a mattress creates conditions for mould growth and can void many manufacturer warranties.
Good mattress protectors use a thin waterproof membrane (usually polyurethane) laminated to a soft surface layer. The better ones are quiet (no crinkle noise), breathable enough not to trap heat, and machine washable. Cotton terry surface layers tend to be most comfortable.
A protector does not meaningfully change the feel of your mattress. It adds perhaps 1 to 2 millimetres of material. Its job is protection, not comfort modification.
Dorothy's Tip: Always Use a Protector
At Mattress Miracle we strongly recommend a quality mattress protector on every new mattress. Any liquid that penetrates your mattress can cause mould over time, and mould is not a warranty-covered defect. A $60 to $120 protector is cheap insurance on a $1,000-plus investment. We carry OEKO-TEX certified protectors that pass the noiseless test in our showroom.
Mattress Pad
A mattress pad is a thin quilted layer that adds a small amount of cushioning along with basic surface protection. It typically has the same fitted-sheet style attachment as a protector but is noticeably thicker, usually 0.5 to 2 inches of fiberfill or thin foam quilted into a fabric cover.
Mattress pads offer modest comfort benefits. If your mattress is slightly firmer than you prefer and you want a minor softening effect, a pad can help at low cost. They also collect some sweat and debris, providing basic protection, but most are not fully waterproof.
The limitation of a mattress pad is that the softening effect is minimal. If you genuinely need a different firmness level, a pad is unlikely to deliver what you need. A topper (discussed next) or a different mattress is a more effective solution.
Mattress Topper
A mattress topper is a separate sleep surface layer, typically 2 to 4 inches thick, that sits on top of your mattress. It meaningfully changes the feel of your sleep surface. Common materials include memory foam, latex, wool, feather/down, and cooling gel foam.
Toppers are used for two main reasons: to soften a mattress that is too firm, or to add cooling or pressure relief that the underlying mattress does not provide. They are significantly more expensive than pads or protectors, running anywhere from $100 to $600 or more for quality options.
A topper is not a long-term fix for a worn-out mattress. If your mattress has a sagging impression in the centre, a topper will follow that contour and you will still feel the sag. Toppers work best on a mattress that is structurally sound but simply not the right comfort level for you.
Comparison Table: All Four Products
| Product | Coverage | Typical Thickness | Primary Purpose | Waterproof? | Comfort Change? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mattress Encasement | All 6 sides (zippered) | Very thin (<2mm) | Bed bug / allergen barrier | Often yes | No |
| Mattress Protector | 5 sides (fitted) | Thin (1-3mm) | Liquid / allergen protection | Yes (most) | No |
| Mattress Pad | 5 sides (fitted) | Thin to moderate (0.5-2") | Light cushioning + basic protection | Rarely | Slight softening |
| Mattress Topper | Top only (unfixed or strapped) | Moderate to thick (2-4") | Significant comfort modification | No | Yes, significantly |
Which One Do You Actually Need?
The answer depends on what problem you are trying to solve.
If you have a child in the bed, a pet that sleeps with you, or any concern about liquid accidents: you want a waterproof mattress protector. This is the most universally useful product and the one we recommend to almost every customer.
If you have confirmed bed bugs or severe dust mite allergies: you want a mattress encasement. These are also useful if you are purchasing a used mattress and want complete isolation of its previous history.
If your mattress is slightly too firm and you want minor softening at low cost: a mattress pad may help, though the effect is modest.
If your mattress is genuinely the wrong comfort level and you need a meaningful change: a quality mattress topper is the appropriate product. Be realistic though: if your mattress is 8 or more years old and losing its support, a new mattress is a better investment than an expensive topper.
At Mattress Miracle
We carry mattress protectors that we have personally tested for comfort, noise, and waterproofing. When you purchase a new mattress from us, we can help you select the right protector and explain what your warranty covers. Many Restonic warranties require that the mattress be protected from stains, so your protector is not optional if you want to maintain your coverage.
A Note on Warranty Implications
This is something Dorothy emphasises with every customer: most mattress warranties specify that a stained mattress is not eligible for warranty claims, regardless of the cause of the defect. A waterproof protector keeps your warranty valid. A mattress pad alone may not be waterproof enough to protect against sweat absorption over years of use.
Dorothy, Sleep Specialist at Mattress Miracle
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Call 519-770-0001Frequently Asked Questions
Is a mattress cover the same as a mattress protector?
Not technically. A mattress cover (or encasement) wraps all six sides and is primarily used for bed bug or allergen control. A mattress protector fits like a fitted sheet over five sides and protects against liquid and allergens. In everyday usage, many people call protectors "covers," which is why the terminology is confusing.
Do I need both a mattress protector and a mattress pad?
Generally no. A quality waterproof mattress protector with a comfortable surface material does the job of both. Adding a pad on top of a protector adds bulk without significant benefit and can affect how the protector's waterproofing functions.
Can a mattress topper fix a saggy mattress?
No. A topper follows the contour of your mattress surface, including any sags. If your mattress has developed a body impression or is sagging in the support core, a topper will mask the problem temporarily but you will still feel the underlying issues. A saggy mattress usually needs to be replaced.
Will a mattress pad or protector make my mattress feel different?
A protector adds almost nothing perceptible to feel. A pad adds a slight softening effect. Only a topper meaningfully changes how a mattress feels. If you need a comfort change, a topper or a different mattress is the appropriate solution.
How often should I wash a mattress protector?
Every one to two months under normal conditions, or immediately after any liquid accident. Most quality mattress protectors are machine washable. Wash on a gentle cycle with warm water and tumble dry on low heat. Do not use fabric softener, which can degrade the waterproof membrane over time.
How do I cover an old or unattractive headboard?
The easiest solution is a fabric headboard slipcover, a fitted cover designed to pull over an existing headboard. These are available online and at some home goods stores. Alternatively, a large piece of fabric draped behind the bed and tucked under the mattress can cover the headboard without attachment. For a more permanent result, reupholstering the headboard with foam, batting, and fabric of your choice takes a few hours and looks polished. Slipcovers are the most practical no-commitment option if you do not want to alter the headboard permanently.
What is a zippered mattress cover?
A zippered mattress cover - properly called a mattress encasement - wraps the entire mattress on all six sides and closes with a zipper. This is different from a mattress protector (which only covers the top and sides) and a mattress pad (which adds a layer of padding). Encasements are primarily used for two purposes: allergen control (particularly for dust mite allergies) and bed bug prevention. If someone in your household has asthma or dust mite allergies, an encasement is the most effective bedding product for reducing exposure. The zipper makes it harder to put on and take off than a fitted protector, but it is the only option that blocks the underside of the mattress.
What is the best king size mattress pad?
For a king mattress pad, the main decision is whether you want pure protection (thin, unnoticeable) or added comfort (thicker, changes the feel of the mattress). A fitted king mattress protector (150 to 200 grams per square metre fill) works well if your mattress is already comfortable and you just want a washable barrier. A king mattress pad with polyester fill (300 to 500 grams) adds a layer of softness on top of a firm mattress. Neither replaces a mattress topper - those are thicker (2 to 4 inches) and significantly change the sleeping surface. For a king, make sure to check the pocket depth on the fitted skirt, as king mattresses often run thicker than queen.
Does a mattress cover with a zip really work for bed bugs?
An encasement with a zipper that has a bug-proof zipper guard (sometimes called a double-stitched or zip-lock seam) effectively traps existing bed bugs inside and blocks new ones from reaching the mattress surface. Look for encasements specifically labelled "bed bug proof" or tested to ASTM F3.2.18.07 standards. Standard zipper encasements without the bug-proof seal are not reliable for bed bug protection, only for dust mite and allergen control.
Does Canadian Tire sell mattress covers?
Canadian Tire stocks a selection of mattress covers and protectors in-store and online, primarily from mainstream brands. Their typical offerings include basic fitted waterproof covers and standard mattress pads. The selection at Canadian Tire is adequate for basic protection but narrower than specialty bedding retailers, and they rarely carry TPU-membrane protectors or natural-fibre tops (Tencel, bamboo) that sleep-focused retailers prioritize. If you need a specific fit (extra-deep pocket, oversized king) or a specialty material, a mattress store will have more targeted options. Mattress Miracle in Brantford carries protectors suited to the mattresses we sell - call (519) 770-0001 to ask about current stock.
What is a hypoallergenic mattress cover?
A hypoallergenic mattress cover is designed to reduce allergen exposure during sleep, primarily dust mites and their waste particles. Standard fitted mattress protectors reduce allergen entry from the top, but a hypoallergenic encasement wraps all six sides of the mattress and closes with a zipper to create a full allergen barrier. Look for covers tested against dust mite penetration to ASTM or similar standards, rather than products that simply use the word "hypoallergenic" without certification. Tencel and bamboo top fabrics naturally inhibit dust mite growth because of their moisture-wicking properties. The Asthma Society of Canada recommends allergen-impermeable covers for anyone with diagnosed dust mite allergy or asthma triggered by bedding allergens.
What is a mattress storage cover?
A mattress storage cover is a thick plastic or polypropylene bag designed to encase a mattress for moving or long-term storage. Unlike a mattress protector for everyday use, storage covers are typically not breathable - they are designed for short-term protection against dust, moisture, and damage during transit. They are usually secured with tape rather than a zipper and are disposed of after use. Storage covers are sold at moving supply stores and home goods retailers. Do not use an everyday mattress protector as a storage cover, as the materials are not designed to handle long-term compression or moisture trapping. When bringing a mattress out of storage, let it air for several hours before adding sheets.
What size mattress pad cover do I need for a king bed, and is vinyl OK?
A king mattress pad cover sizes to 76 by 80 inches with elasticated corners that stretch to accommodate mattresses 8 to 22 inches deep - measure your mattress thickness before buying, since a king pad cut for a 10-inch profile pops off a 16-inch pillow-top mattress within the first night. Vinyl covers are technically waterproof but generally not the right material for adult use: they trap heat, retain moisture, and crinkle audibly with every movement. Vinyl-backed cotton or vinyl-backed terry-cloth pads existed historically (and still do for medical and pediatric use), but for everyday mattress protection, modern TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) or polyurethane-laminated cotton membranes are quieter, breathe better, and last longer. The Asthma Canada indoor allergen guidelines specifically recommend allergen-barrier mattress covers with breathable membrane construction over vinyl alternatives. Talia, on our showroom floor, sees customers from older homes still buying vinyl out of habit and switching them to a quieter TPU-membrane option - she calls it the "you'll-actually-keep-using-it" upgrade. Our Quilted Luxury Mattress Protector in king lives in the broader king mattress protector collection; for cotton-finish options without vinyl backing, see our best mattress protector Canada guide.
How do you wash a mattress cover, and how often?
Most modern mattress covers are machine-washable on a warm or hot cycle (50-60°C / 120-140°F if the care label allows) and tumble-dry on low to medium heat. Avoid bleach (it degrades the polyurethane or TPU waterproof membrane) and avoid fabric softener (it leaves a residue that reduces breathability). Wash monthly under typical conditions; every 2-3 weeks if you sweat heavily, share the bed with pets, or are managing seasonal allergies. The Canadian Lung Association recommends hot-water washing of bedding and mattress covers regularly to reduce dust mite populations. Cotton mattress covers without a waterproof layer can be washed at higher temperatures than membrane-backed protectors - read the label for upper-limit guidance, since some bamboo or rayon blends require cooler cycles to avoid shrinkage. Dorothy mentions a recurring oversight: customers wash the cover but never the mattress underneath, so any allergens that bypassed a worn-out cover stay in the foam. If your protector is more than three years old or the membrane sounds crinkly, replace it rather than wash again.
Do dust mite mattress covers actually work, and what should I look for when buying one in Canada?
Dust mite mattress covers (also called allergen-barrier covers, dust mite encasements, or anti-allergy mattress covers) are one of the most evidence-supported home interventions for reducing exposure to dust mite allergens during sleep. Dust mites are microscopic arachnids that live in mattresses, feeding on shed human skin cells; their fecal particles are among the most common triggers for allergic rhinitis and asthma in Canadians. Health Canada's indoor air quality guidelines and the Canadian Lung Association both recommend dust mite-impermeable mattress covers as a frontline environmental control measure for people with dust mite allergies or asthma. A Cochrane systematic review (Gotzsche and Johansen, 2008, updated 2011) found that while individual dust mite control measures (covers alone) showed modest allergen reduction, combined interventions including impermeable mattress covers alongside regular hot washing of bedding (60°C) and HEPA vacuuming of upholstered surfaces produced clinically meaningful reductions in dust mite allergen concentrations. What to look for: an effective dust mite mattress cover must fully encase the mattress (not just protect the top surface), have a woven pore size under 6 micrometres to block mite fecal particles, and include an impermeable or tightly woven zipper closure. Standard mattress toppers and waterproof covers are not equivalent - look specifically for covers labelled "allergen barrier" or "dust mite encasement." Canadian sources: Mission Allergy, Protect-A-Bed's Allerzip line, and Aller-Ease products are available through Amazon Canada at $49 to $149 for a queen encasement; medical supply retailers and specialty allergy stores carry clinical-grade encasements at $79 to $249. Dorothy says: "For anyone with diagnosed dust mite allergies, a full mattress encasement is one of the most cost-effective interventions available. It's much cheaper than allergy shots and the evidence for it is solid." Browse our mattress protectors collection for allergen barrier and waterproof options, or our mattress protector guide for type and specification comparisons.
Does Home Depot Canada sell mattress covers, and what is a hypoallergenic mattress cover?
Home Depot Canada does stock mattress protectors and mattress covers in its bedding section, both in-store and online at homedepot.ca - though the selection is narrower than dedicated bedding retailers. Home Depot Canada's mattress cover range typically includes basic waterproof fitted protectors (SureGuard and similar brands, $29 to $79 for queen) and fitted cotton-quilted pads ($39 to $69). For a wider selection of mattress covers and protectors in Canada, dedicated bedding and mattress retailers (Sleep Country Canada, Amazon Canada, Hudson's Bay) carry more brand options and higher-performance products. Regarding hypoallergenic mattress covers: a hypoallergenic mattress cover is a tightly woven fitted encasement or protector designed to create a physical barrier that reduces exposure to mattress dust mites, their waste products, and mould - the primary allergens that accumulate inside mattresses over time. The key specification is pore size: research published in the Clinical and Experimental Allergy journal (2003, Woodcock et al.) found that mattress encasements with a pore size under 6 micrometres effectively blocked the passage of dust mite allergen (Der p1) - making microporous or tightly woven covers significantly more protective than standard cotton protectors with larger fabric gaps. In Canada, hypoallergenic mattress covers that meet clinical standards are available from: Protect-A-Bed AllerZip series (encasement-style, full zip closure, widely available at Sleep Country Canada and Amazon Canada, $69 to $119 for queen); Aller-Ease brand (Amazon Canada, $49 to $89); and SureGuard (Amazon Canada, OEKO-TEX certified, $59 to $99). The Canadian Lung Association recommends hypoallergenic mattress encasements as the first-line non-pharmacological intervention for allergy sufferers who sleep on older mattresses with accumulated allergen load. Dorothy says: "A hypoallergenic mattress cover is worth every dollar for allergy or asthma sufferers - it is the single most effective bedding change for reducing the overnight allergen load that contributes to morning congestion." Browse our bedding accessories collection for mattress protectors, or our mattress pad and protector guide for product comparisons.
Sources
- Sleep Foundation. "Mattress Protector vs Mattress Pad." sleepfoundation.org, 2023.
- Asthma Canada. "Dust Mite Allergy Management." asthma.ca, 2023.
- Centers for Disease Control. "Bed Bugs: Information for Consumers." cdc.gov, 2022.
- Better Sleep Council. "Mattress Care and Maintenance Guide." bettersleep.org, 2023.
- OEKO-TEX Association. "OEKO-TEX Standard 100 Certification." oeko-tex.com, 2024.
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.
If you are unsure which mattress protection product is right for your situation, come in and we can walk you through the options without any pressure.