A superior quality mattress protector should be considered an absolute essential for every bed in your home. Although you can (and should) run a vacuum over your mattress, this is not necessarily the most effective way of keeping your mattress as clean as you might like. A mattress protector prolongs the life of your mattress, making sure it remains stain-free and in perfect condition, by protecting it from all manner of accidents and spills.

A mattress protector not only protects your mattress but also takes good care of you by providing a barrier between you and the dust mites which live in your mattress. Furthermore, if you haven't used a mattress protector up until now then you'll find it certainly renews the look of a tired-looking mattress, as well as protecting you from any existing stains. Some people even take their mattress protectors on business trips and holidays with them so that there is a decent barrier between them and anything lurking within the hotel mattress!

There are a number of different mattress protectors to choose from, depending upon your specific requirements and budget. Quilted protectors, otherwise known as mattress enhancers, are densely filled with hypoallergenic wadding, providing extra comfort and drawing moisture off you to so you feel fresh and comfortable all through the night. The quilting, whatever the design, ensures the filling stays evenly distributed whilst it is in use and when washing. Mattress protectors may be washed as often as you like. Some are filled with silky soft anti allergy polyester fibre and when washed at 60 degrees C on an hours cycle, destroy dust mites and their allergens in the process - making them ideal for allergy sufferers. The 100% pure cotton mattress protector is ideal for those who require a naturally breathable mattress protector that readily absorbs excess moisture.

For a little extra in mattress protection, a waterproof mattress protector offers discreet protection whilst keeping your mattress clean and dry night after night. Waterproof mattress protectors are a must for children's beds during potty training. If you buy two, you'll be able to substitute a clean one at the same time as you remove the wet one. Ideally, choose one which has a polypropylene backing, rather than squeaky plastic, and a soft combed cotton top layer for added comfort.

Alternatively, should you require a greater degree of luxurious comfort, extra warmth, or enough support for severely aching joints and backs then a mattress topper may make a more appropriate purchase. Mattress toppers are much deeper than mattress protectors and soften the feel of you mattress by moulding to the shape of your body, whilst also protecting and prolonging the life of your mattress beneath. There are many types of mattress toppers, including those with natural fibre fillings, such as goose or duck feather and down, supportive memory foam or those filled with soft, springy polyester cluster fibre. To avoid the need for regular laundering and to lengthen the life of your mattress topper a good idea is to protecting it with a mattress protector!