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  • Waterproof Bedding: Tips and Advice

    Tips & Advice Center

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    General Waterproof Bedding Information

    What are Some Advantages to Using Waterproof Bedding?

    A waterproof mattress pad provides absorbency as well as moisture protection. Some pads will hold up to 6 cups of fluid. Each style of waterproof bedding is super absorbent, has a comfortable top, a middle waterproof barrier to repel liquid and a full-elasticized skirt. These mattress pads protect against bacteria, which can degrade fabric and lead to odors and stains. Placing the waterproof barrier, made of either vinyl or polyurethane laminate, inside the other layers makes the pads virtually noiseless. When choosing a waterproof mattress pad, the type of waterproof barrier should be considered. Both vinyl and polyurethane are waterproof but only the polyurethane barrier is breathable. Practically, this means that polyurethane does not reflect body heat and therefore, is cooler to sleep on. For a child, this may not be a consideration, but for adults, who produce more body heat, having a breathable barrier layer may be worth a few additional dollars.

    How Many Absorbent Layers Do I Need?

    It's important to decide on how many absorbent layers you'll need. We offer a few different options with different amounts of absorbent layers. A standard pad has three layers, the top absorbent one, the barrier layer and a bottom layer. The four layer cotton top pad has an additional top layer of fine cotton, which enhances the appearance and adds comfort. The four layer plush Beautyrest pad has a polyurethane barrier, as well as a thick absorbent top layer. (See our bedding comparison charts for an easy guide to bedding selection). All choices offer waterproof protection and you may choose depending on the level of comfort desired.

    How Do I Wash My Waterproof Bedding?

    All mattress pads are machine washable and should be dried on low heat. Pads with a vinyl barrier layer or more absorbent layers take more time to dry. Vinyl covers are not machine washable and should be wiped clean with soap and water or a disinfectant solution.

    Why Should I Buy Vinyl Mattress Protection?

    Zippered vinyl covers protect your mattress from fluids, odors and dust mites and protect you from allergens that reside inside the mattress. This is an inexpensive way to add years of life to your mattress, while locking out moisture. The zippered covers surround the entire mattress or pillow and are specially treated to retard the growth of mildew and mold. They are easily cleaned with a damp cloth. Standard 3-gauge covers are a great value and meet everyday needs. For heavy-duty institutional quality covers, choose the thicker 6-gauge vinyl. Zippered vinyl covers also prevent and/or treat bed bug infestations.

    How Can I Compare the Specifications of Different Bedding Solutions?

    You can easily compare our different bedding solutions by viewing our comparison charts page. You can compare the types of waterproof bedding with the Waterproof Bedding Chart. Compare different types of allergy bedding with the Allergy Relief Bedding Chart.

    What is the Difference Between a Waterproof Mattress Pad and Waterproof Encasement?

    Waterproof mattress pads generally come in a fitted style, with elasticized sides. The top of the mattress is covered with the waterproof pad, while the sides are covered with elasticized fabric (not waterproof) and the bottom is left uncovered.

    Waterproof encasements are zippered and provide waterproof protection to all of the mattress surfaces. Examples of these are premium mattress encasements. The mattress can be turned over and the waterproof protection will stay in place.

    What is the Difference Between a Vinyl Mattress Pad and a Vinyl Encasement?

    In a mattress pad, the waterproof vinyl layer is sandwiched between two layers of fabric. The vinyl sheet layer is not visible. Because the vinyl layer is protected, it is more durable and is machine washable. A vinyl encasement is a single layer of vinyl which is zipped around the mattress. Since vinyl does not allow for air exchange, it is most comfortable not to sleep directly on vinyl. A sheet of padded layer is recommended.