Mattress covers and pads are designed to provide you with additional comfort for sleeping while still helping to protect your mattress and keep it clean. Choosing a mattress cover is actually an easy process, and it shouldn't provide you with any sleepless nights. It's just a matter of knowing the types and understanding the sizes.
Choose your style. Deciding on what type of mattress cover or pad you want is more than half the battle. The basic styles include: Guaranteed to Fit, Wrap, Fitted and Anchor. Each style has different qualities. For example, the Guaranteed to Fit covers are literally that. They are usually used for extremely deep mattresses as their design includes sidewalls that expand to fit with elastic around the edges. A wrap cover actually features quilted padding that encompasses both the top and sidewalls along with the elastic edges. Fitted covers most resemble a fitted sheet, with elastic only on the corners of the cover, while an anchor pad features an elastic band on each corner that is pulled over the corner of the mattress to secure it. Anchor covers or pads only have a top pad, with no sidewalls.
Check the thread count. As with any linen, the higher the thread count, the softer the cover will be on the skin. High thread counts also provide a better quality and more durable cover or pad.
Feel the thickness. Mattress covers and pads are usually priced according to the thickness of the pad itself. The thicker the pad, the more comfortable it will be. They also come in a variety of materials. From all cotton to the new memory foam, prices will vary depending on the material used. Read the specifications; it may be worth it to spend a little more money on a cover or pad that will last longer and provide you with more comfort than a less expensive, thinner model.
Measure your mattress. Since the depth of each mattress can be different, it is best to measure before you purchase a cover or pad. Even manufacturers' standards can vary from mattress to mattress. In general, mattress covers and pads are broken down into three measurements; Standard, Deep and Extra Deep. To select the correct fit for your mattress, you can assume that a standard cover or pad will fit a bed that is between 7 and 14 inches deep. A mattress that measures between 10 and 15 inches would take a deep pad, while anything deeper than 15 inches would work best with an extra-deep cover.
Consider energy usage. One last consideration is rather new, especially for warmer or colder climates. There are mattress covers and pads available on the market that will allow you to stay warmer or cooler while sleeping. For example, an electric mattress pad or cover can be used to warm the bed before sleeping, allowing the heat in the home to be turned lower, thereby saving on heating bills.