When it comes to cooling sleep, every little helps, including your mattress protector. That's why I was intrigued to test the Soak & Sleep Coolmax Mattress Protector: a fine layer that promises a lot.
Soak & Sleep already makes some of the best mattress protectors, from anti-bed bug encasements through to waterproof layers and extra soft quilted protectors, but we were yet to test their cooling protector (crazy, I know).
As the weather warms up, it's becoming even more imperative that we find ways to sleep in the heat that are helpful for managing night sweats and hot flushes too. So, is the Soak & Sleep Coolmax Mattress Protector up to the task?
Soak & Sleep CoolMax Mattress Protector review
- RRP: From £38
- Sizes: Single, Double, King, Super King, Emperor, Euro Single, Small Double
- Material: 40% CoolMax, 60% Polyester
- Guarantee: 2 years
Unboxing the Soak & Sleep CoolMax Mattress Protector
The Soak & Sleep Coolmax Mattress Protector arrives neatly packaged in a simple plastic sleeve. This can be recycled at larger supermarkets, which is worth doing if you’re trying to make more sustainable swaps in your bedding routine.
Inside, the protector is lightly folded rather than tightly compressed, which means it doesn’t emerge creased or misshapen. It can lie flat on the bed almost instantly, which is always a good sign of a well-finished fabric. I was also pleased to find there was no chemical or synthetic smell on opening. For anyone sensitive to odours (particularly common during menopause), this is a small but meaningful win.
Who would the Soak & Sleep CoolMax Mattress Protector suit?
This is a particularly strong choice for hot sleepers, but more specifically, those suffering from night sweats and hot flushes. The CoolMax layer works to draw heat and moisture away from the skin, while the waterproof backing protects your mattress from any perspiration or overnight spills.
From a technical perspective, this protector uses Coolmax fibres, something you’ll often find in performance sportswear. These fibres are engineered to wick moisture away from the body and allow air to circulate more freely, helping to regulate temperature and reduce that clammy, overheated feeling that can disrupt sleep.
Beneath this, there’s a TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) waterproof layer. Unlike older-style protectors, this is bonded only at the edges and left unquilted underneath, which prevents moisture from seeping through stitching holes, a thoughtful detail that speaks to the quality of construction.
It’s also ideal if you’ve invested in a good mattress or topper and want to protect it long-term without compromising comfort. And, practically speaking, if you’re someone who enjoys a morning coffee in bed or has pets or children hopping in and out, the added protection offers real peace of mind.
How does the Soak & Sleep CoolMax Mattress Protector fit on the bed?
Fit is often overlooked, but it can make or break a mattress protector. Thankfully, Soak & Sleep has got this right. With a generous 35cm skirt, this easily accommodates deeper mattresses, even if you’ve layered on a topper or an electric blanket. It stretches comfortably over the corners without that all-too-familiar wrestling match.
Importantly, the depth doesn’t translate into bulk. Some deep-fit protectors bunch or crease under the fitted sheet, but this one sits smooth and flat across the sleep surface. The quilted top layer is neatly finished, so you get a comfortable, barely-there feel once your sheet is on.
What is the Soak & Sleep CoolMax Mattress Protector like to sleep on?
From the first night, the Soak & Sleep CoolMax Mattress Protector felt noticeably more breathable than standard polyester protectors I’ve tested. The quilted top adds a light layer of softness, which is enough to take the edge off your mattress, but not so much that it alters the overall support.
The real standout is the temperature regulation. To the touch, the fabric feels cooler than cotton or basic synthetics, and that makes for a fresher feeling when you get into bed. Over the course of the night, I found I still warmed up (as most of us do), but I didn’t experience the same level of heat build-up or that sticky, restless feeling that can come with it.
For women dealing with night sweats, the Soak & Sleep CoolMax Mattress Protector won’t completely eliminate overheating, but it does take the edge off in a noticeable, practical way. I woke up feeling drier and more comfortable, which is ultimately what matters.
I’m always cautious with waterproof protectors, as they can feel stiff or plasticky. However, this one is impressively quiet and flexible. There’s no crinkling or rustling, and you wouldn’t immediately guess there’s a waterproof membrane underneath.
That said, the Soak & Sleep CoolMax Mattress Protector absolutely delivers on protection. During testing, I poured a full glass of water onto the surface, and it beaded on top without soaking through. Underneath, the mattress remained completely dry, which is exactly what you want from a reliable protector.
Cleaning the Soak & Sleep Coolmax Mattress Protector
This is low-maintenance, which is always a big win for me. Soak & Sleep labels it “EasyCare,” and that holds true: it can be washed and tumble dried alongside your regular bedding.
For anyone managing night sweats or occasional spills, this ease of cleaning is essential. You can strip the bed, wash everything in one go, and have it back on the same day without fuss.
Should you buy the Soak & Sleep CoolMax Mattress Protector?
If you’re a hot sleeper, or navigating the all-too-common sleep disruptions that come with hormonal changes, the Soak & Sleep CoolMax Mattress Protector is a smart, well-designed addition to your bed.
What stands out is how well it balances performance and comfort. You’re getting genuine temperature regulation and waterproof protection, but without the noise, stiffness, or bulk that often comes with that territory.
How we test mattress protectors
At woman&home, every mattress protector goes through a rigorous testing process. We assess not only comfort and fit, but also how well it protects your mattress, testing against water, stains, and everyday spills.
We also consider breathability, noise levels, ease of cleaning, and how the protector performs over multiple nights of real-world use. Only products that deliver consistently across all of these areas earn our recommendation.
If you want to find out more, you can visit our dedicated page for how we test mattress protectors.
