Short answer
A protector puts a washable layer between your pet and the mattress, so hair, dander, paw dirt, drool and small accidents land somewhere you can wash. For pets, look for a waterproof layer, a snug fit and a cover that stands up to claws. Organic protectors are a good option. Wash it often, and still have the mattress cleaned twice a year.
Book your mattress cleaning
Regular price $249, Fall 2026 promotion price $199first mattress, any size · Fall 2026 promotion
HEPA vacuuming, enzyme treatment for organic odor, dry vapor steam and UV-C. We recommend cleaning twice a year.
For a full breakdown of protector types for pet owners, read our main guide: mattress protectors for pets on the bed.
What a protector does with a pet on the bed
- Catches hair and dander in a layer you can wash.
- Takes claws and kneading instead of the mattress cover (cat scratching).
- Stops mud, drool and small accidents at the surface (muddy paw prints).
What to look for
- A waterproof layer for accidents, drool and wet paws.
- A snug, deep fit so it doesn't shift when a dog circles.
- A durable top fabric that holds up to claws.
- Easy washing. You'll wash it more often with a pet.
Organic protectors are a good choice for many households (organic mattress protectors).
Care
Wash it on a regular schedule and after any accident (how to wash a protector). A protector keeps most of what a pet brings out of the mattress, and twice-a-year professional cleaning handles the rest. Pet odor treatment is included in our mattress price.
Where to read next
- Mattress protectors for pets on the bed (main guide)
- Keeping the bed clean with a shedding dog
- Pet urine and accidents hub
How we clean a bed you share with a pet
This section is our view. Every Sleep Sanitation visit starts with a nose-and-eyes inspection, then HEPA vacuuming to lift hair, dander and debris, enzyme treatment on organic odor, low-moisture dry vapor steam from our Italian-made Vapor Clean machines, UV-C light treatment and a moisture check before we leave. Pet odor treatment is included in the mattress price, along with normal stains and ordinary urine accidents. The first mattress is $199 Fall 2026 special (regularly $249), any size, and underside treatment is +$50–$75. We recommend cleaning every mattress twice a year, and more often is fine when a pet shares the bed. Take the 60-second mattress quiz or schedule your cleaning. Call or text (402) 512-5658, or email info@sleepsanitation.com.
Changelog
- 24 October 2026: First published. Sources accessed on this date.
Sources
Last reviewed October 24, 2026. Manufacturer specifications and care instructions change; check the current version for your exact model. This page is general information, not medical advice. How we source and check pages: editorial standards.