Learning Center - Waterproof Essentials

• How to Choose a Waterproof Mattress Pad
• Buyer's Guide to Vinyl Mattress Covers
• Protective Bedding on a Budget
• Waterproof Overlays and Underpads
• Nighttime Bedding Essentials

How to Choose a Waterproof Mattress Pad

Waterproof mattress pads are an essential tool for coping with bedwetting. These covers can absorb up to several cups of water, are easy to launder, and can prevent the middle-of-the-night headaches that are so common with bedwetting. Consider the following tips before purchasing to make sure you get the best product for your needs:

• Absorbency: Does your child tend to produce small or large volumes of urine? If his accidents tend to be smaller, you may not need to spend extra money on a more absorbent pad; otherwise, it's worthwhile to invest in a more heavy-duty cover.
• Waterproof Material: Take your climate into consideration. Polyurethane is best for warmer climates, as it doesn't absorb body heat. Otherwise, vinyl works just fine. Polyurethane tends to be more expensive due to its breathability.
• Additional Layers: Basic protection will come in three layers: an absorbent layer, a waterproof layer, and a top layer for comfort. Some models, such as the Beautyrest Breathable Waterproof Mattress Pad, have an additional layer and a 100% cotton top—this Beautyrest mattress pad is a great choice if you're looking for added comfort.

Buyers Guide to Vinyl Mattress Covers

Mattresses are expensive, and the soft materials that make them so comfortable also make them vulnerable to stains and lasting odor. There are products available to eliminate urine and its smell from mattresses, but protecting your child's mattress from nighttime accidents can help prevent you from having to go through that trouble later on. Because they're reasonably priced and can be wiped clean with a damp cloth, vinyl covers are a popular option. Here's a guide to the different varieties:

• Fitted Covers: These covers completely surround the top and the sides of the mattress, much like a regular mattress pad. They fit standard-sized mattresses and cost under $20.
• Zippered Covers: For the restless sleeper, a zippered vinyl cover is a good choice, as it covers the entire mattress and won't slip around or come off. Zippered covers can be purchased for under $20.
• Covers for Deep Mattresses: If you have a deep or pillow-top mattress, you'll need a cover that's made to accommodate mattresses thicker than the standard 9 inches. Deep waterproof vinyl covers zip closed over your entire mattress and cost $30 or less.

Protective Bedding on a Budget

For most parents, the expense of bedwetting solutions isn't planned, and costs can add up quickly. Here are some tips for saving money on bedwetting products:

• Opt for reusable products over disposable whenever possible. Your water bill might be a little higher, but at least you won't have to pay for replacement products frequently. If you prefer disposable protective undergarments or just want to have some on hand, ordering in bulk is less expensive than paying by the pack in-store.
• Vinyl products are completely waterproof and are less expensive than other reusable bedding options. For example, a twin-size vinyl mattress cover costs under $10, while other fabric varieties cost around $50.
• Ordering online tends to be less expensive than purchasing in-store. The Bedwetting Store has all of the products you need at reasonable prices, and because you can order everything you need from one place, you'll avoid paying for multiple shipments.

It is possible to prepare your child (and her bed) for nighttime accidents without breaking the bank. For example, if your child has a twin-size bed, you could purchase a vinyl mattress cover, a washable overlay, and three or four pairs of washable bedtime pants for under $100.

Waterproof Overlays and Underpads

If your child wets the bed at night, laundry can seem like a never-ending chore. Waterproof underpads and overlays (known to some as waterproof bed sheets) help minimize your load by keeping your child's bedding dry. They sit on top of the fitted sheet to protect what's underneath and help keep your child comfortable.

Choose from reusable overlays or disposable underpads. Overlays have a waterproof barrier to keep bedding dry and a thick absorbent layer that can hold up to four cups of liquid. To make nighttime cleanups easier, keep an extra overlay near the bed for quick swap-outs.

StaPut disposable underpads have a similar waterproof barrier and an absorbent polymer core. There are two types to choose from: adhesive or tuck-in. The adhesive underpads stick to the surface, making them great for protecting both bedding and furniture. Tuck-in pads have long tails that are tucked underneath the mattress to keep it in place. Disposable varieties are ideal for travel, as they don't require washing.

When choosing an overlay or underpad, measure your child’s bed. Most products come in small, regular, large, and extra large sizes that are designed to fit different-sized beds. Prices vary according to size.

Unique Product

Premium mattress covers are made with a revolutionary material that is lightweight, breathable and completely waterproof. These covers allow body heat to dissipate so that sleeper stays cool in summer and warm in winter.

An additional advantage is the short drying time required when doing laundry. Because the fabric is thin, it can be washed and dried in the same load as the sheets. These are available in all sizes, in fitted and zippered styles and in duvet and pillow covers.

Nighttime Bedding Essentials

There are many steps you can take to protect your child's bedding and mattress from nighttime accidents. Here is an overview of products that can help. These can either be used alone or in conjunction with one another for added protection.

• Waterproof mattress pad: These fit snuggly over the mattress and hold several cups of liquid. They're made up of an absorbent layer, a waterproof layer, and a top layer for comfort.
• Waterproof overlays: These sit on top of the fitted sheet and have an absorbent layer with a waterproof barrier underneath. Because they either adhere to the fitted sheet, tuck into the sides of the mattress, or simply lay on top of the sheet, it's quick and easy to change them during the night. Look for washable and disposable varieties.
• Mattress covers: These are made of either vinyl or breathable, waterproof fabric and work to repel liquid from bedding. Choose from fitted or zippered options. Zippered mattress covers have the added benefit of protecting your child against allergens and bedbugs.
• Odor protection: Any stain is easier to remove before it has time to set in. Keep urine stain removers and odor neutralizers on hand to prevent laundry headaches later.