Best Mattress Protector For Bed Bugs: 5 Zippered Encasements Compared

A mattress protector intended for bed bugs should fully enclose the mattress and close with a zipper—not just cover the top like a fitted sheet. The five options below are zippered encasements, with different mattress-depth ranges, fabric details, and waterproof features. Check your mattress measurements before choosing: a snug fit and a fully closed, intact zipper are key parts of using an encasement as a barrier.

Quick Comparison

Our Picks: Best Mattress Protector For Bed Bugs reviews

Utopia Bedding Queen Encasement: A Practical All-Around Option

This queen-size encasement covers all sides of the mattress and uses a wrap-around zipper. Its stated fit is for a mattress measuring 60 by 80 inches and up to 15 inches deep, so it may suit many standard queen setups—but measure your mattress rather than relying on the size label alone.

The cover uses smooth knitted polyester and a TPU backing on all sides. The listing describes the fabric as soft and quiet, while the waterproof layer is meant to guard against spills as well as provide a barrier around the mattress. It is machine washable and can be tumble dried on low heat.

Its combination of zippered coverage, water resistance, and a broad depth range makes it a versatile pick for someone who wants one cover for several kinds of everyday messes. The main trade-off is that the stated maximum depth is 15 inches; a thicker mattress may not fit correctly. As with any encasement, the zipper needs to close fully and the cover should not be used if it is torn or damaged.

Pros:

• Encloses all sides of a queen mattress.
• Waterproof TPU backing covers all sides.
• Fits mattresses up to 15 inches deep.
• Machine washable and tumble dryable on low heat.

Cons:

• Not listed for mattresses deeper than 15 inches.
• Polyester knit may feel different from the cotton terry top on the SureGuard option.

Verdict: Choose this Utopia Bedding encasement if you want queen-size zippered coverage with waterproof protection and your mattress is no more than 15 inches deep.

SureGuard Queen Encasement: A Cotton Terry Top and Sealed Zipper

SureGuard’s queen encasement is designed for mattresses 13 to 16 inches deep. It covers all six sides and pairs a super-fine zipper with Invisi-Zip and SureSeal features, which the manufacturer describes as a way to seal the mattress from bed bugs. For protection around the bed as a whole, the listing recommends using it with a SureGuard box spring encasement.

The top is made from cotton terry, which sets it apart from the polyester-knit options in this group. The listing says the surface wicks moisture and is soft and quiet. It also describes the cover as waterproof and free from vinyl, PVC, phthalates, and fire retardants. The product is machine washable and dryable, and it comes with a stated 10-year quality guarantee.

The 13-to-16-inch range is narrower than the HOSPITOLOGY option, but it could be a useful fit for a thicker mattress within that range. The cotton terry surface may appeal if you prefer that material over a smooth polyester knit. Keep in mind that a mattress outside the listed depth range may prevent a proper fit, and the encasement does not cover a box spring unless you buy a separate cover.

Pros:

• Six-sided waterproof coverage.
• Invisi-Zip and SureSeal features are designed to close off the mattress.
• Cotton terry top is described as soft and moisture-wicking.
• Machine washable and dryable; includes a 10-year quality guarantee.

Cons:

• Fits mattresses 13 to 16 inches deep, which excludes thinner or thicker models.
• A separate box spring encasement is needed to cover a box spring.

Verdict: Consider SureGuard if your queen mattress is 13 to 16 inches deep and you prefer a cotton terry surface with a zipper designed for a close seal.

HOSPITOLOGY Sleep Defense System: A Flexible Fit for Deeper Mattresses

The HOSPITOLOGY Sleep Defense System is a zippered queen encasement that stretches to fit a standard 60-by-80-inch mattress with a depth from 12 to 18 inches. That wide stated range makes it the most flexible choice here for mattress thickness, especially if your bed is too deep for a 15- or 16-inch maximum.

It has a waterproof barrier on all six sides and an extra-soft polyester knit fabric. The listing describes its waterproof membrane as breathable and says the cover is machine washable, with tumble drying on low heat. It also lists a five-year limited manufacturer’s warranty.

This is a strong option to compare against the SureGuard if your mattress is deeper than 16 inches; it is also a potential fit for mattresses as shallow as 12 inches. The product description does not specify the same zipper-sealing technology named by SureGuard, so shoppers focused on closure details may want to compare the listed features carefully. A flexible fit still depends on your mattress being within the stated size range.

Pros:

• Fits queen mattresses from 12 to 18 inches deep.
• Waterproof barrier covers all six sides.
• Breathable waterproof membrane and soft polyester knit fabric.
• Machine washable and tumble dryable on low heat.

Cons:

• Has a five-year limited warranty, shorter than the 10-year guarantee listed for SureGuard.
• The description does not name zipper-sealing features like SureGuard’s Invisi-Zip and SureSeal.

Verdict: Pick HOSPITOLOGY if you need a queen encasement with a wider mattress-depth range and want waterproof coverage on every side.

Utopia Bedding Premium Encasement: A Simple Fit for 12-Inch Queen Mattresses

This Utopia Bedding model is a queen-size, six-sided encasement with a stated 12-inch pocket depth. It uses a zipper and is designed to provide a barrier against bed bugs and dust mites, as well as waterproof protection from spills and stains. The smooth knitted fabric is described as breathable, soft, and quiet.

Compared with Utopia Bedding’s other queen option in this list, this one is specified for a shallower mattress: 12 inches rather than up to 15 inches. That more specific fit may be helpful if your mattress matches the stated depth, but it leaves less flexibility if you replace your mattress with a thicker one. The listing says it can be machine washed.

Measure the mattress height carefully, including any pillow-top or other built-in layers. A cover that is too shallow may be difficult to close or may not sit as intended. If your mattress is deeper than 12 inches, the HOSPITOLOGY or SureGuard options have wider stated depth ranges.

Pros:

• Six-sided zippered coverage for a queen mattress.
• Waterproof protection against spills and stains.
• Soft, smooth knitted fabric is described as breathable and quiet.
• Machine washable for routine care.

Cons:

• Specified for a 12-inch-deep mattress, with less depth flexibility than the other queen options.
• The description does not state a warranty period.

Verdict: This is a straightforward choice if you have a queen mattress that measures 12 inches deep and want a zippered, waterproof encasement.

Amazon Basics King Encasement: A King-Size Barrier with Recycled Polyester

This Amazon Basics cover is the king-size option in this lineup. Its 360-degree zippered design is intended to enclose the mattress, while a waterproof barrier helps protect against spills, accidents, and liquid damage. The listing specifies a 12-inch pocket depth and describes the fabric as flexible, breathable, and noise-free.

The cover is made with polyester and a polyurethane backing. The product description says it contains 85% Global Recycled Standard-certified recycled post-consumer polyester. It is machine washable and dryer-friendly, with reinforced seams listed as part of its construction.

This model may suit shoppers who need a king encasement and want waterproof coverage in addition to a bed bug and dust mite barrier. Its stated 12-inch depth is important to check before buying: a deeper mattress may not fit. The supplied description does not give a precise king mattress measurement beyond the size label, so confirm the product’s size details before ordering.

Pros:

• King-size option with 360-degree zippered coverage.
• Waterproof barrier with flexible polyester fabric and polyurethane backing.
• Machine washable and dryer-friendly.
• Uses recycled post-consumer polyester, as stated in the listing.

Cons:

• Listed for a 12-inch pocket depth, which may not fit thicker mattresses.
• The supplied description does not specify an exact king mattress measurement.

Verdict: Choose this Amazon Basics option if you need a king-size zippered encasement and your mattress fits the listed 12-inch depth.

How to Choose a Mattress Protector for Bed Bugs

Choose a full encasement, not just a fitted cover

A fitted protector covers the top and sides of a mattress but leaves the bottom open. A zippered encasement surrounds the mattress on all sides, which is the design to look for when you want a barrier around the entire mattress. Check the product description for terms such as “six-sided” or “360-degree” coverage, and make sure the zipper closes fully.

Measure your mattress size and depth

Measure the mattress length and width, then measure its depth from the bottom edge to the top surface. Include built-in pillow tops or other layers that add height. Compare those measurements with the product’s stated fit range. A cover that is too shallow may be hard to close, while one that is too large may not sit snugly.

Look closely at the zipper and seams

The zipper is a key part of a zippered encasement. Some products specify added zipper-sealing features, while others simply describe a zippered closure. Check that the zipper can close completely once the cover is on, and inspect the encasement for damage during use. An open seam, broken zipper, or tear can compromise the barrier.

Decide whether you need waterproof protection

All five options in this guide list waterproof protection, which can help shield a mattress from spills and other liquids. If you mainly need a bed bug barrier, waterproofing may be an added benefit rather than your top priority. Consider how the cover will be used and whether its surface fabric and care instructions suit your household.

Consider fabric feel and care instructions

The choices here use different materials, including smooth polyester knit and a cotton terry top. The feel of those fabrics can differ, so compare the product details if surface texture matters to you. Check washing and drying instructions before buying, especially if you expect to clean the cover often. Follow the manufacturer’s care directions to help maintain the fabric and closure.

Think about the rest of the bed

A mattress encasement covers the mattress, not necessarily the box spring or other nearby bedding. SureGuard’s listing specifically recommends pairing its mattress encasement with a separate box spring encasement. If you are addressing a suspected bed bug problem, a mattress cover is only one part of the response; consider appropriate pest-control guidance as well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a mattress protector stop bed bugs?

A zippered encasement is designed to form a barrier around the mattress when it fits correctly and remains fully closed and intact. It should not be treated as a stand-alone solution for an active bed bug problem. Follow appropriate pest-control guidance for the full sleeping area.

What is the difference between a mattress protector and an encasement?

A typical fitted mattress protector covers the sleeping surface and sides but leaves the bottom open. An encasement surrounds the mattress on all sides and closes with a zipper. For a bed bug barrier, look for a product specifically described as a full zippered encasement.

Should I cover the box spring too?

A mattress encasement does not automatically cover a box spring. If you want a barrier around both, check whether the manufacturer offers a separate box spring encasement. SureGuard’s product information recommends using its mattress cover with a SureGuard box spring encasement.

How do I know whether an encasement will fit?

Measure the mattress length, width, and depth, then compare those measurements with the stated dimensions and depth range for the specific product. Do not assume that every queen or king mattress has the same depth. Make sure the zipper closes fully after installation.

Can I wash a zippered mattress encasement?

The products in this guide are described as machine washable. Drying directions vary by item: some specify low-heat tumble drying, while the Amazon Basics listing says it is dryer-friendly. Follow the instructions supplied with the specific cover.

Will a waterproof encasement feel noisy or stiff?

These products use different fabrics and waterproof layers, and their descriptions vary. Several are described as soft, quiet, breathable, or made from smooth knitted fabric. Fabric feel is personal, so compare the material details and product features before choosing.

Final Recommendation

For most queen beds, the Utopia Bedding queen encasement is a practical all-around option if your mattress is no more than 15 inches deep and you want waterproof, six-sided coverage. Choose SureGuard if your mattress is 13 to 16 inches deep and its cotton terry top and named zipper-sealing features fit your priorities. HOSPITOLOGY offers the widest stated queen depth range, while the second Utopia Bedding model targets a 12-inch queen mattress. For a king bed, the Amazon Basics encasement is the option here, provided your mattress matches its stated 12-inch depth.