A crib mattress cover can help protect the mattress from diaper leaks, spit-up, and other everyday messes. The best choice is one that fits your mattress securely, is easy to wash, and adds no loose or bulky layers to your baby’s sleep space. Below, we compare five options, from a two-pack to a full zippered encasement, so you can choose the style that fits your needs.
Quick Comparison
| Product | Cover style | Notable features | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| BEDLORE Crib Mattress Protector 2-Pack | Fitted protector | Two covers, waterproof, machine washable | Keeping a spare cover ready |
| HALO Breathable Crib Mattress Cover | Quilted mesh protector | Waterproof lining, stretchy sides, dryer-friendly | Shoppers looking for a mesh sleep surface |
| Sealy Baby Crib Mattress Protector Pad | Quilted fitted pad | Quiet waterproof backing, deep stretch skirt | A lightly cushioned feel with a secure fit |
| Sealy Baby SafetyCase Zippered Protector | Full zippered encasement | Surrounds the mattress, waterproof, machine washable | Covering the whole mattress |
| SureGuard Waterproof Crib Mattress Protector | Fitted protector | Cotton terry top, waterproof, GreenGuard Gold certified | A cotton-feel surface and fitted-sheet style |
Our Picks: Best Mattress Cover For Crib reviews
BEDLORE Crib Mattress Protector 2-Pack: A Practical Spare Set
The BEDLORE set includes two fitted waterproof protectors sized 52 by 28 inches for a standard crib or toddler mattress. Having a second cover can be useful when one is in the wash, especially if you prefer to avoid waiting for laundry before making the bed again.
The protector has elasticized edges for a snug fit and is described as noiseless and breathable. It is machine washable, so routine cleanup should be straightforward. Check your mattress dimensions before ordering, and make sure the protector lies smooth and secure beneath the fitted sheet.
Compared with the single-cover options here, the main advantage is the two-piece set. It does not have the full-mattress coverage of a zippered encasement, and its description does not give a mattress-depth limit, so confirm the fit if your mattress is unusually deep.
Pros:
- Includes two protectors for easier laundry rotation
- Waterproof layer helps shield against spills and accidents
- Elasticized edges are designed for a snug fit
- Machine washable for routine care
Cons:
- Fitted style does not fully enclose the mattress
- Mattress depth limit is not specified in the supplied product details
Verdict: Choose the BEDLORE set if having a spare fitted protector matters more to you than full-mattress coverage.
HALO Breathable Crib Mattress Cover: Quilted Mesh With Waterproofing
The HALO protector uses two layers of soft, quilted mesh over a waterproof lining. Its sleep surface is 100% polyester, while the stretchy sides are made from polyester and spandex. HALO lists its size as 28 by 52.5 inches and describes it as a universal fit for most standard crib and toddler mattresses.
Stretchy elastic sides are intended to make fitting and changing the cover easier. The protector is machine washable and dryer-friendly, which may help simplify cleanup. Its mesh construction sets it apart from the cotton-terry and quilted fabric surfaces in this comparison.
“Breathable” describes the product’s mesh design, but it should not be treated as a substitute for safe-sleep practices. Confirm that the cover fits your specific mattress, and use it only beneath a snug fitted sheet. The listed dimensions say “most” standard mattresses, so check the fit rather than relying on the universal-fit label alone.
Pros:
- Quilted mesh surface with a waterproof lining
- Stretchy sides are designed for easier changes
- Listed dimensions suit many standard crib mattresses
- Machine washable and dryer-friendly
Cons:
- Not described as a two-pack
- Universal fit may not suit every mattress shape or depth
Verdict: The HALO is a good option to consider if you want a waterproof fitted cover with a quilted mesh surface and your mattress matches its dimensions.
Sealy Baby Crib Mattress Protector Pad: Quilted Comfort and a Deep Skirt
This Sealy Baby pad is made for a 52-by-28-inch infant or toddler mattress. Its cotton-and-polyester surface has quilted fill, while a quiet waterproof backing helps block leaks and spills. That combination offers a slightly cushioned surface compared with a plain fitted protector.
The fitted skirt is described as a deep stretch style with SecureStay elastic edges. Those details are intended to help the pad stay smooth and reduce shifting or bunching. It is machine washable and dryer-safe, and the product description says its pinsonic quilting supports use through repeated washing.
This pad is a middle ground between a basic fitted cover and a full encasement: it adds quilted fabric but does not zip around the mattress. If you want the mattress fully enclosed, the Sealy SafetyCase is the more suitable style. As with any quilted protector, check that it fits flat and does not interfere with a snug fitted sheet.
Pros:
- Quiet waterproof backing helps protect against leaks
- Quilted cotton-and-polyester surface adds light cushioning
- Deep stretch skirt is designed to help limit shifting
- Machine washable and dryer-safe
Cons:
- Fits a stated 52-by-28-inch mattress size, so measure before buying
- Does not fully enclose the mattress
Verdict: Pick this Sealy pad if you want a quilted, waterproof fitted protector and your mattress matches the listed standard dimensions.
Sealy Baby SafetyCase: A Zippered Cover for Full-Mattress Coverage
The SafetyCase is a zippered encasement designed to surround a standard full-size crib mattress. Unlike fitted pads that cover the top and wrap around the edges, this style closes around the mattress to help keep the cover in place. Its waterproof layer is intended to block diaper leaks, spit-up, spills, and other everyday messes.
The sleep surface uses soft micro-weave fabric, and the design includes light quilting. Sealy describes the stretch-knit fit as helping reduce shifting or bunching. The cover is machine washable and dryer-friendly, which is useful for a product that remains on the mattress through everyday use.
A full encasement takes more work to remove and put back on than a top-only pad, especially when you need to wash it. It also makes mattress sizing important: check the mattress dimensions and the cover’s fit before use. This option is most distinct from the others when enclosing the sides and bottom is a priority.
Pros:
- Zippered design surrounds the mattress
- Waterproof protection helps guard against spills and leaks
- Soft micro-weave surface with light quilting
- Machine washable and dryer-friendly
Cons:
- May take longer to remove and refit than a fitted pad
- Requires a close match to the mattress size for a secure fit
Verdict: Choose the SafetyCase if you want a zippered cover that surrounds the mattress rather than a protector that covers only the top and sides.
SureGuard Waterproof Crib Protector: Cotton Terry With a Fitted-Sheet Design
The SureGuard protector has a cotton terry top and a fitted-sheet style that suits crib, toddler, and baby beds measuring 28 by 52 inches. Its waterproof layer is designed to protect against everyday liquids and stains, while the terry surface is described as soft, noiseless, and moisture-wicking.
The stretchable skirt is listed for mattresses up to 6 inches deep. That depth limit is useful when checking fit before buying. The protector is machine washable and dryer-safe, and the product description states that it is independently lab tested and GreenGuard Gold certified. It also lists that it is free from vinyl, PVC, phthalates, and fire retardants.
Compared with the BEDLORE set, SureGuard offers one protector rather than two. It also differs from the Sealy Baby quilted pad by using a cotton terry surface instead of a quilted top. If your mattress is deeper than 6 inches, check whether the cover will fit securely before choosing it.
Pros:
- Cotton terry top with a fitted-sheet design
- Waterproof and described as noiseless
- Listed to fit mattresses up to 6 inches deep
- Machine washable, dryer-safe, and GreenGuard Gold certified
Cons:
- Sold as a single protector rather than a spare set
- Not intended for mattresses deeper than the stated 6-inch limit
Verdict: Consider SureGuard if you want a cotton terry top, a clearly stated mattress-depth limit, and the listed GreenGuard Gold certification.
How to Choose a Crib Mattress Cover
Match the Cover to Your Mattress Dimensions
Start by measuring your crib mattress, including its depth. Many standard crib mattresses are listed as 52 by 28 inches, but mattress depth can vary. A cover that is too small may not fit securely, while one that is too large can bunch. Check the product’s listed dimensions and depth limit, then confirm the cover lies smooth and snug on your mattress.
Choose Between a Fitted Protector and an Encasement
Fitted protectors cover the top and wrap around the mattress edges. They are generally a simpler style to remove for washing. A zippered encasement surrounds the mattress, including its sides and bottom, but may take longer to remove and put back on. Decide whether easy changes or full-mattress coverage is the higher priority for your household.
Consider the Surface and Feel
These options use different surface materials: quilted mesh, cotton-and-polyester quilting, micro-weave fabric, and cotton terry. Look at the full product construction, not just a “breathable” or “soft” label. A protector sits beneath the fitted sheet, so choose a design that fits flat and does not create unwanted bunching or bulk.
Check the Waterproof Layer and Care Instructions
A waterproof barrier can help keep leaks and spills from reaching the mattress. Check how the product describes that layer and whether the whole protector can be machine washed and dried. Follow the care label, since washing and drying directions may differ from one cover to another.
Think About Having a Spare
If you want a clean protector ready while another is being washed, a two-pack can be convenient. A single protector may suit you if you already have a backup or prefer a particular surface or cover style. Consider how often you expect to wash the bedding when deciding whether an extra cover is useful.
Keep the Sleep Space Simple
A mattress cover should fit securely beneath a snug fitted sheet and should not create loose fabric or extra padding. Follow the mattress and crib instructions, and use a firm, flat sleep surface. Do not use a cover that shifts, bunches, or no longer fits properly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size crib mattress cover should I buy?
Check your mattress dimensions and depth, then compare them with the cover’s listed measurements. Several options here are designed for a standard 52-by-28-inch mattress, but depth limits and exact fit can vary.
Can I use a mattress protector with a fitted crib sheet?
These protectors are designed to sit beneath a fitted sheet. Make sure the protector and sheet both fit snugly and lie smooth, without bunching or loose material.
Is a zippered encasement better than a fitted protector?
Neither style is best for every home. A zippered encasement surrounds the mattress, while a fitted protector is typically simpler to remove and wash. Choose based on the coverage you want and how easy you want laundry changes to be.
Are all crib mattress covers waterproof?
No. Check the product details for a clearly stated waterproof layer. All five options in this comparison are described as waterproof, but their surface materials and designs differ.
Can a breathable cover replace safe-sleep practices?
No. A breathable-material claim does not replace safe-sleep practices or the crib and mattress instructions. Keep the sleep surface firm and flat, use a snug fitted sheet, and avoid loose bedding.
How often should I wash a crib mattress protector?
Wash it when it becomes soiled and follow the care instructions on its label. If you want a clean cover ready during laundry, a two-pack can make rotation easier.
Final Recommendation
The BEDLORE two-pack is a practical pick if you want a spare protector ready for laundry changes. For a quilted mesh surface, consider the HALO; for a lightly cushioned pad, look at the Sealy Baby fitted protector. The Sealy SafetyCase is the option to consider for zippered coverage around the mattress, while SureGuard stands out for its cotton terry top and stated 6-inch mattress-depth limit. Whichever you choose, confirm the fit and keep the sleep surface smooth and snug.