IKEA Has a $25 Waterproof Mattress Protector That Feels Surprisingly Premium

Don't let the low price fool you. We put this waterproof IKEA staple to the test to see if it’s actually breathable and crinkle-free. (Spoiler: It is.)

A peach bedroom with a black four-poster bed, polka dot curtains, and a blanket ladder against a linen closet.
(Image credit: Future / Future Publishing Ltd)

As a Sleep Editor, I'd never sleep on my mattress without a protector, and how much money you spend on yours will usually determine the quality and how easy it is to wash and maintain.

That's why one that's effective and affordable is an absolute winner in my books. And, after testing the GRUSNARV Waterproof mattress protector, available at IKEA, for over 30 nights, I can safely say it ticks both of those boxes and passes with flying colors. Adding to that, it's only $25 in a Queen-size, so it's a real steal, too.

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I Tested The GRUSNARV IKEA Mattress Protector and Was Impressed

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

You may think that such a hidden piece of bed linen (it sits under your fitted sheet) is something you'd never notice once it's on, but that's exactly what makes a good one, truly good.

The GRUSNARV Waterproof mattress protector is comfortable, non-cumbersome, and quiet (some can sound very crinkly), even when you toss and turn throughout the night.

Straight out of the packaging, the protector was ready to pop straight onto the mattress, and fitted perfectly, even once I made the bed, thanks to the slim-profile design. I didn't notice any odors, either, which I've often noticed when I open brand new bedding.

Once bedtime came, I didn't notice the protector at all. There was no heat discomfort or rustling under my body. That's not to say it made me sleep better, but it certainly didn't disturb my sleep either, even when my partner or I turned or moved in the night.

GRUSNARV Mattress Protector in clear and grey packaging on colorful, patterned bedding

The GRUSNARV mattress protector arrived compactly packaged.

(Image credit: Future / Ottilie Blackhall)

The real test of a waterproof mattress protector, of course, is how waterproof is actually is. Luckily, I can assure that, when I poured a cup of water onto it, the GRUSNARV protector held up well with no leaking through to my Nolah AirFoam Luxe Mattress Topper, even when left with enough time to soak through.

Though I do regularly drink tea in bed while reading on a Saturday or Sunday morning, I'm grateful to report that I'm yet to suffer any spillages. But knowing how waterproof this topper is, I feel assured that my best mattress will be fine if an accident ever does occur.

What Shoppers Say

IKEA Grusnarv mattress protector

This waterproof mattress protector prevents liquids from passing through, to keep your mattress stain-free.

(Image credit: IKEA)

My glowing report is not a one-off. There are over 2,000 five-star reviews for the GRUSNARV Mattress Protector on the IKEA site from happy purchasers who rave about their product.

One recent and particularly glowing review from verified shopper Nathalie reads, 'Great Quality at an Affordable Price! I have used IKEA’s waterproof protectors on our whole family’s beds for 20 years now. They are soft, in other words, not “plastic-y” feeling, while still being dense and definitely water and spillproof. They help with dust mite allergens, too, even though they’re not advertised as such.

'They’re easy to wash and throw in the dryer. Hold up very well! I hope they never discontinue this product because I’ve never found anywhere that sells as good as or better than the IKEA ones!'

Another, from Mason, echoes how easy it is to clean and care for this item and notes that it's also perfect for keeping a clean home when you have pets.

'I love this, my dogs' drool, and nasty paws don’t leak through to the sheets,' they explain. 'Washing the mattress cover is a pain, but with this topper it's super effortless!' Though my four dogs are definitely not allowed on my bed, I know plenty of people do like to share their sleep space with furry friends.

In any case, it's always reassuring to know that your mattress protector does what it claims to do, and even more importantly, does so well – and for just shy of $25, you really can't dispute the value of the IKEA GRUSNARV either.

More to Shop

If you're interested in a few more Sleep Editor-approved recommendations, shop my curated edit of topper alternatives and springtime comforts for bedrooms below.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.


Curious as to how to clean and care for your mattress protector? Our dedicated guide leads you through the process step-by-step.

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Ottilie Blackhall
Sleep Editor

Ottilie joined Homes & Gardens in 2024 as the News Writer on Solved, after finishing a Master's in Magazine Journalism at City, University of London. Now, as the Sleep Editor, she spends her days hunting deals and producing content on all things sleep – from mattresses and sheets to protectors and pillows, all of which she tests in her own home. She also has particular expertise in home fragrance, covering everything from candles to reed diffusers.

Previously, she has written for Livingetc and Motorsport Magazine, and also has a Master's degree in English Literature and History of Art from the University of Edinburgh, where she developed a love for inspiring interiors and architecture.