You may not have given it much thought, but there’s more to purchasing a mattress protector than you think. We all know that the essential role of a mattress protector is to protect the mattress from wear, spills, and stains and ensure longevity. But what happens when your protector makes you feel hot or sweaty, especially if you’re a “hot sleeper”?
If you are concerned that the mattress protector might increase sweating in the night or you’re looking for ways to replace the old mattress that traps heat, this article has you covered.
1. Are mattress protectors breathable?
If you’re looking for ways to limit night sweats, one of the main qualities your protector needs is breathability. A waterproof protector is a good choice for protecting a mattress against spills, dirt, dust mites, and allergens. However, some waterproof protectors trap your body heat and leave you sleeping in your own sweat. So, it’s advised to look for a mattress protector that has more than just excellent liquid resistance.
Pay attention to the materials on the labels. Nowadays, most mattress protectors use fabrics that are moisture-resistant but allow for some breathability. For example, you want to avoid synthetic materials as they don’t regulate temperature well enough to let the air circulate normally. On the other hand, terry cloth would be your go-to choice that allows good breathability while repelling water. Many of the cheaper plastic-y ones don’t breathe well and can keep a mattress warmer than it should be. So, depending on the breathability of the plastic membrane that coats your waterproof mattress protector, you can either sleep very hot or pleasantly cool.
2. Does a mattress protector affect cooling?
One proven fact is that the body needs a lower temperature to stay asleep. However, as the body heats up in the middle of the night, the lack of air circulation from the bedding to the mattress can lead to a hot sleeping surface, ultimately disrupting your sleep.
If your mattress protector causes you to wake up sweaty at night, maybe it’s time to give a cooling mattress protector a chance. They make the mattress feel cooler and comfier while also regulating your body temperature.
Cooling mattress covers use cooling technology that absorbs the extra heat and releases it into the air keeping you cool at night. So, if you choose a cooling protector with good enough breathability, it will not interfere with the cooling effect or trap heat.
3. Why does my mattress make me so hot?
First things first. Your mattress’s tendency to get too hot will depend on what it is made of, much like the mattress covers. The mattress structure is the main reason it retains heat – and it worsens when you pair it with warm bedding. But here are some tips you can do to ensure a good night’s rest.
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- Invest in a mattress type that won’t naturally get too hot – Memory foam mattresses are notorious for their tendency to hold onto body temperature. In contrast, latex and gel-infused mattresses are the best at dispersing heat. They feel a lot cooler than regular memory foam mattresses and are therefore the go-to solutions if you want to avoid sweaty nights.
- Make sure that your mattress has pinholes – These will allow for a stronger cooling effect while you sleep.
- Choose bedding made from natural materials – Using sheets and covers made of natural fibers like cotton or bamboo is always better than using synthetic fibers. They will allow for breathability and will not trap heat. Synthetic sheets will retain heat and will make you feel hotter at night. It’s not always true that higher thread counts mean more luxurious and higher quality sheets. The best ones for proper airflow are usually the ones with lower thread counts.
- Wear light sleepwear – Make sure your pajamas are loose-fitting for added breathability and are made with materials like bamboo or cotton.
- Invest in a good bed frame – To decrease heat retention, you’ll want a supportive bed frame. Avoid ones that have a solid base and instead opt for slatted beds as they encourage air circulation through the mattress’s base.
- Opt for a mattress protector – Go for a mattress protector that covers your mattress. Make sure that it is made of natural fibers, as these things will play a significant role in ensuring that the temperature of your bed is, at all times, at a comfortable level.
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4. Do mattress covers make you hot?
After investing in a good mattress, the last you’ll want is the mattress protector that’s going to disrupt your comfort. You may find yourself asking the question, among others “Is the mattress protector going to make me sweat.” It’s important to mention that not all mattress protectors will make you sweat, but some can. That is due to the quality of the fabric. You must check the protector before you make a purchase. A waterproof layer that protects your mattresses from different accidents is only good if that layer doesn’t retain heat too.
Go Forth and Sleep
No doubt, feeling too hot at night might affect the overall quality of your sleep. And the mattress protector can be your long-term solution if you want to avoid the constant night of tossing and turning. Not all mattress protectors make you sweat, but some will. Whether you decide on replacing your mattress entirely or you want to invest in a high-quality mattress protector, make sure you buy one made of materials that regulate temperature and allow air circulation. Avoid synthetic materials like vinyl, and make sure the mattress protector is breathable. With the right mattress protector by your side, you’ll be able to enjoy a cool night’s sleep anytime.
