Where Can I Buy Mattress Covers

If you’re wondering where can i buy mattress covers, you’re in the right place. This guide will walk you through every option, from local stores to online giants, so you can find the perfect protection for your bed.

Buying a mattress cover is a smart move. It protects your investment from spills, stains, dust mites, and general wear. But with so many places to shop, it can feel overwhelming. Should you go to a big-box store, a specialty shop, or just order online? The answer depends on what you need, your budget, and how quickly you need it.

We’ll break down all the possibilities. You’ll learn the pros and cons of each retailer, what to look for in a cover, and how to make the best choice for your sleep setup.

You can purchase mattress covers from a wide variety of places. They fall into a few main categories: general merchandise stores, specialty bedding stores, department stores, furniture stores, and online retailers. Each has it’s own advantages.

Major Big-Box and Department Stores

These are your go-to spots for convenience and often for good value. You can usually see and feel the products in person.

Walmart: A top choice for budget-friendly options. They carry basic vinyl protectors, padded mattress covers, and some hypoallergenic styles both in-store and online. Selection in-store can vary by location.
Target: Offers a step up in style and quality, with brands like Casper and Target’s own Threshold line. Their website has a broader selection than most stores, with easy in-store pickup.
Bed Bath & Beyond (and Beyond): While the store footprint has changed, their online presence remains strong for bedding. They have a huge array of covers, from basic to luxury, and are known for coupons and sales.
Department Stores (Macy’s, JCPenney, Kohl’s): These stores offer mid-range to higher-end options, often from well-known bedding brands. Kohl’s, with its Kohl’s Cash promotions, can be especially good for deals.

Specialty Bedding and Mattress Stores

If you want expert advice and higher-quality materials, these stores are worth visiting.

Mattress Firm, Sleep Number, etc.: Primarily sell mattresses, but they always carry protective covers and pads designed to work with their products. The staff can be knowledgeable about features like breathability and fit.
The Company Store, Parachute, Brooklinen: These are direct-to-consumer brands focused on quality bedding. Their mattress covers are often made with premium materials like organic cotton or eucalyptus and emphasize design and comfort, not just protection.

Furniture Stores

Stores like IKEA, Ashley HomeStore, and Raymour & Flanigan often sell bedding accessories alongside their furniture. IKEA is particularly notable for its affordable, functional mattress protectors that fit their unique mattress sizes perfectly.

Online Retailers: The Largest Selection

For the absolute widest choice, online is king. You can read hundreds of reviews and compare specs side-by-side.

Amazon: The behemoth of selection. You can find every imaginable type, brand, and price point here. Use filters for size, material, and features (like waterproof or cooling). Always read recent reviews.
Wayfair: Similar to Amazon in breadth for home goods. They have a excellent filtering system to help you narrow down by material, depth, and special features.
Brand Websites: Buying directly from a brand like SafeRest, Linenspa, or Slumber Cloud ensures you get the genuine product and often the best warranty support. They sometimes run sales not available on other sites.

Warehouse Clubs and Other Options

Don’t overlook stores like Costco or Sam’s Club. They occasionally carry high-quality mattress covers in multi-packs at exceptional value. Also, check home improvement stores like Home Depot or Lowe’s; they sometimes stock basic mattress protectors, especially in the moving supplies section.

What to Consider Before You Buy

Knowing where to shop is half the battle. Before you click “buy” or head to the store, think about these factors. They will guide you to the right retailer.

1. Determine Your Primary Need

Is your main goal waterproofing, allergy relief, adding softness, or simply extending your mattress’s life? This decides the material.

Waterproof/Protection: Look for vinyl, polyethylene, or polyurethane laminate (PUL) fabrics. Newer ones use breathable membranes that are less noisy.
Allergy Barrier: You need a cover certified as allergen-proof, with a pore size small enough to block dust mites (usually less than 10 microns). These are often made of tightly woven microfiber or special fabrics.
Comfort (Mattress Topper): If you want to change the feel of your mattress, look for padded options made of memory foam, latex, or fiberfill. Note: A “mattress pad” is usually for comfort; a “mattress protector” is for protection; a “cover” can be either.

2. Get Your Size and Depth Right

This is crucial. A cover that’s to small won’t fit; one that’s too big will bunch up.

Measure your mattress’s width, length, and depth (height).
Standard sizes are Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King. But mattress depths vary widely from 8″ to over 20″ for pillow-tops.
Buy a cover labeled for your mattress size and with a pocket depth that exceeds your mattress depth by at least an inch or two.

3. Set Your Budget

Mattress covers range from $15 for a basic vinyl cover to over $200 for a premium organic cotton or wool topper. Generally, you can find a very good protective cover for $30-$80.

4. Decide: In-Person vs. Online

Choose In-Person if you want to feel the fabric, assess noise (for waterproof ones), or need it immediately.
Choose Online for the best selection, detailed reviews, price comparison, and access to specialty brands that aren’t in stores.

Step-by-Step Buying Guide

Follow these steps to make your purchase smooth and successful.

Research Online First: Even if you plan to buy in-store, check websites for local stores to see their inventory and prices. Read reviews on specific products your interested in.
Check Return Policies: Especially important for online buys. Can you return it if it doesn’t fit or feel right? Some allergen-proof covers cannot be returned once opened.
Look for Sales: Major holidays (Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Black Friday) often have bedding sales. Subscribe to brand emails for discount codes.
Place Your Order or Visit the Store: Have your mattress measurements and credit card ready. For in-store, consider calling ahead to check stock.
Wash Before Use: Always wash the cover according to instructions before putting it on your bed. This removes any manufacturing residues and softens the fabric.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Assuming “One Size Fits All”: It doesn’t. Depth is the most common sizing issue.
Ignoring Care Instructions: Some waterproof covers cannot be machine-dried on high heat, or they’ll delaminate. Check the label.
Buying Based on Price Alone: A super cheap cover might be crinkly, tear easily, or not provide a true allergen barrier.
Forgetting About Feel: If you hate the feel of plastic, a basic vinyl cover will ruin your sleep, even if it protects perfectly. Opt for a cloth-covered waterproof model.

FAQs About Buying Mattress Covers

What’s the difference between a mattress cover, protector, and pad?

Terms are often used interchangeably, but generally: A cover or protector is a thin layer mainly for protection (waterproof, allergen-proof). A pad is thicker, adding cushioning for comfort, and may have some protective features too.

Are mattress covers worth it?

Absolutely. They are one of the most cost-effective ways to extend the life of your mattress, which is a major investment. They also maintain hygiene and can improve comfort.

Can I get a mattress cover for an adjustable bed?

Yes. You need a cover specifically labeled as “fitted” or “stretch” that can accommodate movement, or a “split” design for split king adjustable beds. Check product descriptions carefully.

Where is the best place to buy a waterproof mattress cover?

For a wide selection and good prices, Amazon and Target are excellent. For higher-end, quiet, breathable waterproof models, check specialty bedding brand websites.

How often should I replace my mattress cover?

With proper care, a good quality cover should last 2-5 years. Replace it if it becomes stained, loses its waterproofing, develops holes, or the elastic wears out.

Do mattress covers make you sweat?

Old plastic vinyl covers can. Modern ones use breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics and membranes that allow air flow while blocking liquids. Look for terms like “breathable” or “cooling.”

Final Recommendations

For most people, starting your search on a major online retailer like Amazon or Target gives you the best overview of what’s available. You can compare prices, read real-user reviews, and often get fast shipping.

If you have specific needs like severe allergies or a very deep mattress, consider going directly to a brand known for that specialty, like SafeRest for waterproof protection or AllerEase for allergen barriers. For a luxury feel, direct-to-consumer bedding brands offer high-quality materials.

Remember, the best mattress cover is the one that fits your mattress perfectly, meets your protection or comfort needs, and feels good to you. Taking a little time to measure and research will ensure you get a product that protects your mattress and improves your sleep for years to come. Now that you know where can i buy mattress covers, you can shop with confidence.