The One Thing Every Caregiver Forgets to Put on the Bed and Regrets Later

• Casper Waterproof Mattress Protector — 100% waterproof top surface with breathable, crinkle-free polyethylene film. Fits mattresses up to 16 inches deep with 360-degree elastic grip. Machine washable. Silent — no plastic crinkling sounds that disturb light-sleeping seniors. Hypoallergenic.
• Buy Five Per Parent, Rotate — Always have a clean backup protector ready while one is in the wash. Eliminates 2 AM scrambles after nighttime accidents.
• Layer for Maximum Protection — Place a washable absorbent bed pad on top of the fitted sheet so you only swap the pad after most incidents — not the entire bed.
• Odor Prevention — Install the protector before the first accident. If the mattress already has odor, spray with diluted white vinegar or OdoBan before covering. One cup of white vinegar in the wash cycle removes urine smell from sheets and protectors.

Why Every Caregiver Needs a Waterproof Mattress Protector

Incontinence affects an estimated 25 million adults in the United States, according to the National Association for Continence (NAFC). Among older adults, the prevalence is even higher — and it is one of the leading reasons families consider long-term care placement (source: nafc.org).

For caregivers managing a parent’s health at home, protecting the mattress is not just about cleanliness — it’s about dignity, comfort, and cost. A soiled mattress can harbor bacteria, mold, and odors that are nearly impossible to fully remove. It can also void the mattress warranty.

The National Association for Continence recommends a layered approach to bed protection: start with a zippered waterproof mattress cover, add a fitted waterproof protector, then use washable or disposable pads on top of the sheet for additional protection (source: nafc.org).

Real-World Caregiver Tip: Many experienced caregivers recommend buying five (5) waterproof protectors per one parent so you always have a clean backup while one is in the wash. The adult bladder is big so they will accidently urinate often, might be daily. This simple step eliminates the scramble when an accident happens at 2 AM.

Product Spotlight: Casper Waterproof Mattress Protector

• Machine Washable: This is very IMPORTANT. Wash on cold or warm cycle. Avoid dry, let it airdry for a few hours or overnight by hanging on the staircase. Do not bleach, iron, or dry clean. Avoid using any high heat — it can damage the waterproof layer. Casper notes the protector may appear loose out of the package but shrinks to a snug fit after the first wash.
• 100% Waterproof Top Surface: Engineered with a thin polyethylene (PE) film sandwiched between polyester knit layers — the same type of waterproof material used in premium outdoor gear. Microscopic pores block liquid from passing through while still allowing airflow to keep the sleeper cool.
• Crinkle-Free and Silent: Unlike plastic or vinyl covers, the Casper protector is designed to be quiet. You will not hear crinkling or rustling when moving in bed — an important consideration for seniors who are light sleepers or easily startled.
• Breathable Design: Microscopic pores in the waterproof layer allow air to circulate, which helps prevent the “sweaty” or overheated feeling that many plastic protectors cause. This is especially helpful for seniors who experience night sweats or are on medications that affect body temperature.
• 360-Degree Elastic Skirting with Secure Grip: The protector fits mattresses up to 16 inches deep. Cross-directional stretch and machine-directional elastic prevent the protector from bunching, shifting, or popping off during the night. Head and foot labels make installation easier.
• Hypoallergenic: Helps protect against dust mites and allergens that can accumulate inside a mattress over time — important for seniors with allergies or respiratory conditions.
• Available in All Standard Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, and California King.

Important: This protector guards the top and sides of the mattress. If you need full 6-sided encasement protection (for example, for bedbugs or severe incontinence), consider pairing this with a zippered mattress encasement underneath.

Quick Setup Guide

Ask a caregiver or family member to help with initial setup. Once installed, the protector stays in place and requires no daily maintenance.

Installing the Casper Waterproof Mattress Protector

• Put Casper Protector under the bedsheet. However, if the parents urinate often then just use the protector without the bedsheet. It is still comfortable sleeping on Mattress Protector.
• Unpackage the Casper protector. Identify the head and foot using the Casper labels sewn into the protector.
• Place the protector over the mattress like a fitted sheet — stretch the elastic skirting around all four corners. The quilted top surface should face up.
• Tuck any excess material between the mattress and the bed frame or foundation.
• Place your regular fitted sheet on top of the protector, then make the bed as usual.
• Recommended first step: Casper recommends washing and drying the protector before first use. This helps the elastic skirting shrink to a snug fit on your specific mattress.

Washing and Care Instructions

• Machine wash cold or warm. Do not use hot water.
• Avoid putting in the Dryer, just hang on the staircase and let it airdry or if you have Airdry function on the Dryer then use it (LG Signature Dryer has the Airdry function).
• Do not bleach, iron, or dry clean.
• Wash promptly after any spill or accident — do not leave moisture sitting on the protector for extended periods.

Things to Consider

• The protector is waterproof on the quilted top surface but not on the elastic skirting around the sides. Liquids that flow down the sides of the mattress may bypass the protection.
• Some users report the protector may feel slightly warm compared to sleeping on a bare mattress. This is typical of any waterproof layer and is usually unnoticeable with a standard fitted sheet on top.
• For severe or frequent incontinence, a full zippered mattress encasement may provide more complete protection than a fitted-sheet-style protector alone.
• High heat in the dryer can damage the waterproof polyethylene layer and cause de-lamination. Always airdry using the staircase or dryer with airdry function.
• Casper offers a 30-day return policy (unused, original packaging) and a 1-year limited warranty on the protector.

Goldie’s Table: Mattress Protection Essentials for Caregivers

Alt text: “A table listing recommended mattress protection products for seniors and caregivers, including product name, why it helps, and a link to purchase.”

Photo and instructions adopted from GoldieCircle, Amazon, and Casper.

Disclaimer: GoldieCircle may recommend third-party products and services based on internal evaluation. Such recommendations do not constitute a warranty or guarantee of performance, suitability, or lifespan. All products are subject to their respective manufacturers’ terms and conditions. GoldieCircle assumes no liability for any claims or damages arising from the use of any recommended product or service.

Health Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Incontinence can be a symptom of underlying health conditions. If your loved one is experiencing new or worsening incontinence, consult a physician or urologist. The National Association for Continence (nafc.org) offers free resources for individuals and caregivers.