A waterproof mattress cover can help protect a baby’s crib mattress from diaper leaks, spit-up, and everyday spills. The best choice is one that fits your mattress securely, is simple to wash, and adds protection without making the sleep surface feel bulky. Below, we compare five options, including zippered and fitted styles, single covers, and two-packs.
Quick Comparison
| Product | Style | Standout feature | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sealy Baby SafetyCase Zippered Protector | Zippered encasement | Surrounds the mattress | Parents who want a fully enclosed fit |
| Sealy Baby Quilted Protector Pad | Fitted pad | Stain-protection layer and quilted top | A soft, standard-size fitted cover |
| American Baby Company 2-Pack | Fitted pads | Two covers with deep corners | Keeping a clean spare ready |
| Sealy Baby Breathable Protector 2-Pack | Fitted pads | Quiet waterproof layer | Easy changes and routine washing |
| Graco Premium Protector 2-Pack | Fitted pads | GREENGUARD Gold Certified and PVC-free TPU coating | Shoppers prioritizing product certification |
Our Picks: Best Waterproof Mattress Cover For Baby reviews
Sealy Baby SafetyCase: A Zippered Encasement for Full Coverage
The SafetyCase is different from a fitted mattress pad: its fabric enclosure zips around the mattress. That design helps keep the protector from shifting or sliding underneath the sheet and covers more of the mattress than a top-only pad.
Its soft micro-weave sleep surface is designed to feel airy, while light quilting adds a small amount of cushioning. The waterproof layer is intended to block common nursery messes such as leaks, spit-up, and spills. It is also machine washable and dryer friendly, which is useful when cleanup cannot wait.
This is a strong option if you prefer an enclosed cover that stays secured around the mattress. Before ordering, check the mattress dimensions and thickness against the product’s fit details; the supplied description calls it a standard full-size crib fit but does not give exact measurements. A zippered design may also take longer to remove and replace than a fitted pad.
Pros:
- Zippered enclosure surrounds the mattress.
- Waterproof barrier helps protect against everyday liquid messes.
- Soft micro-weave surface with light quilting.
- Machine washable and dryer friendly.
Cons:
- Check mattress dimensions carefully because exact fit measurements are not specified in the supplied details.
- May take more effort to remove than a fitted protector.
Verdict: Choose the SafetyCase if a secure, zippered enclosure matters more to you than the quick changes offered by a fitted pad.
Sealy Baby Quilted Protector: A Fitted Cover with Stain Protection
This fitted Sealy pad is designed for standard crib mattresses measuring 52 by 28 inches. Its cotton-and-polyester surface has quilted fill for a softer feel, while a waterproof backing is described as quiet to help avoid crinkling sounds during movement.
A stain-protection layer adds another feature for families dealing with frequent spills and leaks. The deep stretch skirt and elastic edges are meant to keep the cover smooth and secure beneath a fitted sheet. The pad is machine washable and dryer safe, making it a practical everyday option.
Compared with the SafetyCase, this style is easier to take off and put back on, but it does not enclose the entire mattress. Confirm your mattress dimensions and depth before buying, and make sure the pad lies flat and fits snugly once installed.
Pros:
- Fits standard 52-by-28-inch crib mattresses.
- Quilted cotton-and-polyester surface adds gentle cushioning.
- Quiet waterproof backing and stain-protection layer.
- Machine washable and dryer safe.
Cons:
- Sold as a single pad, so you will not have a second cover ready during laundry.
- Does not provide the full-mattress enclosure of a zippered style.
Verdict: This is a sensible pick if you want a fitted, quilted protector with a stated standard crib size and easy-care construction.
American Baby Company 2-Pack: Two Fitted Covers for Easier Rotation
This set includes two fitted mattress protectors, so one can be used while the other is being washed. Each is designed for standard crib and toddler mattresses measuring 52 by 28 inches, with deep corners and all-around elastic intended to help keep the cover in place.
The quilted, multi-layer surface is designed to feel soft and reduce crinkling sounds. A waterproof layer helps guard against spills, leaks, and stains, and the covers can be machine washed and tumble dried on low. The product description gives a mattress thickness limit of up to 6 inches, so check that measurement before ordering rather than relying on the crib’s standard length and width alone.
The two-pack offers a practical backup advantage over the single Sealy pad. However, the description’s additional fit figures can be easy to misread, so prioritize the stated mattress measurements and thickness limit when checking compatibility.
Pros:
- Includes two covers for easier laundry rotation.
- Designed for standard 52-by-28-inch crib and toddler mattresses.
- Deep corners and all-around elastic help secure the fit.
- Quilted surface is designed to avoid noisy crinkling.
Cons:
- Specified for mattresses up to 6 inches thick, so it may not suit thicker models.
- Fitted-pad design does not cover the whole mattress like an encasement.
Verdict: Pick this set if you want two washable fitted covers and your mattress falls within the listed size and thickness limits.
Sealy Baby Breathable 2-Pack: A Quiet, Quilted Backup Set
Sealy’s two-pack is designed for standard 52-by-28-inch crib and toddler mattresses. Each fitted protector has full elastic edges to help it stay in place. Having a second cover on hand can make sheet changes easier when one protector needs a wash.
The top is made from quilted polyester with pinsonic stitching, and the product description highlights a quiet TPU waterproof layer. The cover is machine washable and can be tumble dried on low. Its breathable construction and cushioned surface may appeal if you want a soft-feeling pad without moving to a zippered encasement.
Unlike the SafetyCase, this set covers the mattress top rather than enclosing the sides. It also does not list a mattress-depth limit in the supplied details, so check the product listing and your mattress dimensions to confirm the fit.
Pros:
- Two protectors provide a ready-to-use backup.
- Fits standard 52-by-28-inch crib and toddler mattresses.
- Quilted polyester surface and quiet TPU barrier.
- Machine washable and suitable for tumble drying on low.
Cons:
- Does not fully encase the mattress.
- Mattress thickness details are not included in the supplied description.
Verdict: Choose this two-pack if you want a simple fitted style, a spare for laundry days, and a quiet waterproof layer.
Graco Premium Protector: A Certified Two-Pack with TPU Coating
Graco’s fitted protector comes as a two-pack and is designed for standard full-size crib and toddler mattresses. Its waterproof sleep surface uses a PVC-free TPU coating, and an elasticized bottom is intended to create a snug fit. The product is GREENGUARD Gold Certified; the supplied description says certified products are screened for chemicals and VOCs that can affect indoor air.
The covers are machine washable and dryer friendly, with care instructions specifying cold water on a delicate cycle and low-heat tumble drying or air drying. Those directions are worth following to care for the coating and fabric. The product also includes a five-year limited warranty, according to the supplied information.
This set stands out for shoppers who value the stated certification and PVC-free coating. Like the other fitted options, it does not zip around the mattress. The description does not provide exact mattress dimensions, so check the listing and confirm that the cover fits your mattress securely.
Pros:
- Two-pack provides a clean spare.
- GREENGUARD Gold Certified.
- PVC-free TPU waterproof coating.
- Machine washable, with stated care instructions and a five-year limited warranty.
Cons:
- Exact mattress dimensions are not listed in the supplied product details.
- Requires cold, delicate-cycle washing and low-heat drying or air drying.
Verdict: Consider the Graco set if a certified product and PVC-free TPU coating are priorities, and confirm the fit before purchasing.
How to Choose a Waterproof Mattress Cover for a Baby
Match the Cover to Your Mattress Size and Depth
Start by checking the mattress label or product details for its length, width, and thickness. Many covers in this comparison are designed for standard 52-by-28-inch crib mattresses, but fit details differ. The American Baby Company set, for example, specifies mattresses up to 6 inches thick. A cover that is too small may not fit securely, while one that is too large may bunch.
Choose Between a Fitted Pad and a Zippered Encasement
A fitted pad covers the top of the mattress and is usually simpler to remove for washing. A zippered encasement surrounds the mattress and can offer a more secure, full-cover design. Consider how often you expect to change the cover and whether you prefer quick removal or coverage around the whole mattress.
Look for a Secure, Smooth Fit
Elastic edges, deep skirts, reinforced corners, or a zipper can help keep a protector in place. After fitting it, check that the cover lies flat and does not shift or bunch. Always follow the mattress and crib manufacturers’ instructions about which bedding products are appropriate.
Consider the Surface and Waterproof Layer
Protector surfaces range from soft woven fabric to quilted polyester or cotton-and-polyester blends. Some product descriptions also emphasize quieter waterproof barriers. Think about whether you prefer a lightly cushioned surface, a smooth feel, or a fabric designed to reduce crinkling. A mattress protector is a practical barrier for messes, but it does not replace a clean, properly fitted sheet.
Check Washing and Drying Instructions
All five options are described as washable, but the recommended care differs. Some can be tumble dried, while the Graco product specifies cold water on a delicate cycle and low heat or air drying. Following the product’s care label helps you clean it properly and avoid using a drying method the manufacturer does not recommend.
Decide Whether a Two-Pack Is Worthwhile
A second cover can be convenient when one is in the wash, especially during periods of frequent leaks or spills. If you are choosing a single protector, consider whether you will want to buy a spare separately. Compare the number of covers in the package along with fit, construction, and care requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a waterproof mattress cover for a baby?
A waterproof protector can help shield a crib mattress from leaks, spit-up, and spills. It is optional bedding, so check that it is compatible with your mattress and crib and follow the manufacturers’ safe-use instructions.
Is a fitted protector or a zippered encasement better?
Neither style is best for every family. A fitted protector is generally easier to remove and replace, while an encasement surrounds the mattress. Choose based on your preferred coverage and how easily the cover fits your specific mattress.
Can I use a mattress protector with a fitted crib sheet?
These products are intended to sit beneath a fitted sheet, but always follow the instructions for your mattress, protector, and crib. Make sure the protector and sheet fit snugly and lie flat without bunching.
How do I know if a protector will fit my crib mattress?
Check the mattress’s length, width, and thickness against the product’s stated dimensions and fit limits. Standard dimensions do not guarantee a fit for every mattress thickness or design.
How often should I wash a baby mattress protector?
Follow the care label and wash it when it becomes soiled or according to your household’s cleaning routine. If you expect frequent changes, a two-pack can give you a clean spare while the other cover is being washed.
Are quilted protectors safe for a baby’s crib?
Use only products that fit the mattress as intended and follow your crib and mattress manufacturers’ guidance. For safe sleep, keep the sleep space clear of loose bedding and other items, and place your baby on their back on a firm, flat sleep surface.
Which option is best if I want an extra cover on hand?
The American Baby Company, Sealy Baby Breathable, and Graco options are sold as two-packs. Compare their fit requirements, materials, and washing instructions to decide which suits your mattress and laundry routine.
Final Recommendation
For a fully enclosed design, the Sealy Baby SafetyCase is the clearest choice in this group. If you prefer fitted covers and want a backup for laundry days, compare the two-pack options: the Sealy Baby Breathable set lists a standard mattress size, while the Graco set stands out for its GREENGUARD Gold Certification and PVC-free TPU coating. Whichever you choose, confirm the fit and follow the care and safe-use instructions before putting it on your baby’s crib mattress.