In commercial facilities like retreat centres, hotels, and busy short-term rentals, bedding undergoes a lot of wear and tear. That’s why having high-quality mattress protectors and pillow protectors isn’t just optional - it’s essential.
Recently, one of our long-time commercial clients, a 70-bed retreat, reached out to share their experience:
“The mattress protectors we purchased back in 2017 are still going strong, but some of the pillow protector zips are starting to go. We’re still using them - they’ve held up well overall.”
That kind of durability is precisely what we aim for.
We’ve been supplying bedding to Australia’s leading hotels and accommodation providers for over 20 years. We know what works and, more importantly, what lasts.
But even the best commercial-grade bedding has a lifespan, especially in high-wash environments.
So, how long should a mattress or pillow protector last? And when is it time to replace them?
Let’s break it down.
Why Use a Mattress Protector in the First Place?
Whether you’re outfitting a hotel, retreat, Airbnb or your own home, a mattress protector is your first line of defence.
Here’s why they’re a must-have:
- Shield the mattress from spills, sweat, and allergens.
- Extend the life of the mattress (and your investment).
- They make beds more hygienic and easier to clean between stays.
- They improve guest comfort, especially when padded or quilted.
If you’re running a hospitality venue, a hotel mattress protector helps maintain standards and streamline housekeeping. If you’re at home, it means better sleep and a cleaner bed.
Fitted vs Strapped Mattress Protectors: What’s the Best Choice?
We often get asked:
“What kind of mattress protector is best?”
The answer depends on your needs, but both styles serve a purpose.
Fitted mattress protectors wrap around the mattress like a sheet. These are ideal for full coverage and a smooth, hotel-like fit.
Strapped mattress protectors feature elastic corner straps and are easy to remove and replace quickly, perfect for fast changeovers or budget-conscious setups.
Our Guest Fresh fitted and strapped mattress protectors are commercial grade, generously quilted, breathable, and built to handle repeat washing, making them a staple in many of Australia’s most trusted properties.
Should a Mattress Protector Go Over or Under a Mattress Topper?
This is a common question, and the answer is simple:
Always place your mattress protector on top of the mattress topper.
Here’s why:
- It helps keep the mattress topper fresh and protected, especially since toppers are bulkier and harder to launder regularly.
- It won’t alter the feel or plushness of the topper thanks to the deep-fit stretch skirt on our fitted protectors, which is designed to accommodate additional layers without compromising fit or comfort.
- It creates a cleaner, more hygienic bedding setup, ideal for both home use and high-turnover commercial environments.
Placing the protector on top of the topper is the best way to protect your investment and maintain a comfortable sleep experience.
What Do Hotels Put on Top of Mattresses?
Most hotels use a combination of:
Quality mattress protectors for hygiene and longevity.
Mattress toppers for added plushness and guest comfort.
Crisp sheets to keep everything in place.
(Airbnb’s and smaller hotels opt for fitted sheets, whereas larger hotels opt for flat sheets due to laundry requirements)
The Guest Fresh range has been specifically designed with commercial laundering in mind. These protectors offer fast drying times and easy care, making them ideal for high-turnover environments where every wash counts.
When Should You Replace a Mattress or Pillow Protector?
Even with durable construction, no protector lasts forever. Here's a quick guide:
For Commercial Use (Hotels, Airbnbs, Retreat Centres):
Mattress protectors: Replace every 2–3 years, or sooner if you notice thinning, pilling, stains that won’t wash out, or loss of fit.
Pillow protectors: Replace every 1–2 years, especially if the zippers or seams start to show wear.
For Home Use:
Mattress protectors: Every 3–5 years, depending on usage and care.
Pillow protectors: Every 2–3 years.
If you notice fraying, damaged zips, or any reduction in comfort or protection, it’s time.
Are Mattress Protectors a Good Idea?
Absolutely. Whether you're caring for your bed or managing guest rooms, they offer a low-maintenance way to keep mattresses fresh, clean, and protected.
Our Guest Fresh mattress protectors are:
- Made from breathable microfibre with a soft, quilted finish.
- Designed for fast drying and frequent washing and are anti-pill.
- Available in both fitted and strapped styles to suit your setup.
- Built to commercial standards, yet perfect for home use.
They’re easy to wash, quick to dry, and return to the bed looking crisp white and fresh - a must-have in any high-changeover environment.
What About Pillow Protectors?
A best pillow protector does more than shield against sweat or drool - it helps keep the pillow’s shape, extend its life, and improve hygiene between guests.
Our Guest Fresh quilted pillow protectors feature:
- A breathable quilted surface for added softness.
- Microfibre inside meaning no fabric disintegrating over time
- Durable zippers for a secure fit
- Easy wash-and-dry construction
- Commercial-grade stitching for high-use resilience
As with mattress protectors, pillow protectors should be washed regularly and replaced once they begin to show wear, especially around the seams or zippers.
How Often Should You Wash a Mattress Protector?
Another common question:
“How often should a mattress protector be washed?”
In commercial settings: After every guest, or at least every 2–3 uses.
At home: Every 1–2 months, or more frequently if there are spills or allergens.
The Guest Fresh range is designed for repeated washing without compromising comfort or performance.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to bedding, it's the small details that make a big difference. A quality mattress protector or pillow protector might not be visible once the bed is made, but it’s doing important work behind the scenes.
Whether you're managing a hotel or want to sleep better at home, investing in well-made protectors will help your bedding last longer, feel better, and stay fresher between washes.
Need help choosing the right protectors for your setup?
Browse the Guest Fresh Collection or contact us today!