
In the article
Last Updated on 22/05/2025 by Tony Abrahams
If you’ve ever Googled “Are waterproof sheets hot to sleep on?” chances are you’ve experienced the dreaded night sweats—or maybe you’re shopping for waterproof bedding but are nervous it’ll feel like sleeping on a plastic bag.
Let’s clear the air: waterproof doesn’t have to mean sweaty, sticky, or noisy. But it can—if you buy the wrong type.
Do Waterproof Sheets Make You Sweat or Overheat?
Short answer: Yes… unless they’re made properly.
Let’s be real—cheap waterproof sheets from bargain bins or supermarkets? They’re basically plastic tarps. They trap heat, block airflow, and make you sweat within minutes. And forget about getting a good night’s sleep on something that rustles like a chip packet.
But today’s high-quality waterproof bedding has evolved. The good stuff is:
- Breathable
- Soft to touch
- Moisture-wicking
- Silent and cool
This is thanks to materials like TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane)—a super-thin waterproof layer that blocks liquid but still lets air flow through. Think of it as breathable rainwear for your bed.
So no, waterproof sheets don’t have to be hot—you just need the right material and design.
What Materials Are Best for Cool, Breathable Waterproof Sheets?
When it comes to staying cool and comfy, the material matters more than anything.
Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll find on the market:
Material | Waterproof? | Breathable? | Sleep Comfort |
PVC / Vinyl | ✅ | ❌ | 🔥 Hot, sticky, noisy |
Cheap Polyester | ✅ | ❌ | 🔥 Traps heat, feels plasticky |
Polyester + TPU | ✅ | ✅ | ❄️ Cool, soft, quiet |
Cotton Terry + TPU | ✅ | ✅✅ | ❄️❄️ Soft and moisture-wicking |
Bamboo + TPU | ✅ | ✅✅✅ | ❄️❄️❄️ Naturally cooling and luxurious |
TPU is the hero here—you want it as the waterproof layer. It’s thin, quiet, and allows airflow while still blocking liquids. Pair it with bamboo or cotton on top and you get breathable, dry sleep even in the Aussie summer. Are There Noiseless, Comfortable Waterproof Options?
Yes—and they’re light-years ahead of what was available 10 years ago.
The best waterproof sheets now feel just like normal bedding. Our Waterproof Mattress Covers are made with soft polyester fabric and backed with a silent TPU layer. They’re:
- Crinkle-free
- Soft and stretchy
- Fit snugly over your mattress (no bunching)
- Machine washable and long-lasting
Bonus? They protect against more than just spills—they block sweat, allergens, dust mites, and bed bugs too.
Do Waterproof Sheets Affect Sleep Quality or Skin Health?
Yes—but not always in a bad way.
Low-quality sheets can:
- Cause overheating
- Lead to heat rash or sweaty breakouts
- Trap bacteria and odours
High-quality sheets, like ours:
- Are hypoallergenic
- Prevent the growth of mould and mildew
- Create a barrier against dust mites, bed bugs, and allergens
- Stay cool and dry all night
If you (or your kids) have asthma, eczema, or sensitive skin, waterproof bedding can improve your sleep quality—not harm it—as long as it’s breathable.
Are Waterproof Sheets Hotter Than Regular Sheets in Summer or for Kids?
This is a big concern for parents, especially those dealing with bedwetting or toilet training.
Here’s the truth: not all waterproof sheets are hot—only the cheap, non-breathable ones are.
Our waterproof protectors are made with breathable materials that wick moisture away from the body and allow air to circulate, making them perfect for:
- Hot sleepers
- Children and toddlers
- Elderly family members
- People managing incontinence
- Pet owners
No more sweaty, uncomfortable nights—just cool, dry, and worry-free sleep.

sweaty kid in bed
Waterproof Protection for More Than Just Your Mattress
Why stop at the bed? Accidents, spills, and body moisture happen everywhere—and we’ve got you covered (literally).
🔹 Waterproof Duvet Covers
Stop sweat, spills, and dust mites from soaking into your doona. Our waterproof doona protectors are soft, breathable, and machine washable.
🔹 Waterproof Pillow Protectors
Protect your pillows from drool, sweat, and allergens with our waterproof pillow covers—ideal for sensitive skin and allergy-prone sleepers.
🔹 Waterproof Couch & Cushion Covers
Spilled coffee? Kids jumping on the sofa with muddy feet? Protect your lounge with our waterproof cushion and couch protectors—stylish, comfy, and easy to clean.
🔹 Waterproof Dog Bed Covers
We didn’t forget your furry friend! Our dog bed covers are chew-resistant, water-repellent, and easy to zip off and wash.
One accident can ruin your mattress, cushions, or pet bedding—but our full range of waterproof products means you’re protected from top to tail, bed to lounge.
How to Choose a Cool, High-Quality Waterproof Sheet
Here’s what to look for when shopping for waterproof bedding that won’t feel like sleeping in a greenhouse:
✅ Must-Haves:
- Breathable TPU backing
- Natural or moisture-wicking top fabric (cotton, bamboo, soft polyester)
- No noise when you move
- Hypoallergenic, dust mite resistant
- Machine washable
❌ Avoid:
- Vinyl / PVC sheets
- “Waterproof” bedding without breathability info
- Anything with poor reviews for comfort

Machine Washable
Conclusion: Are Waterproof Sheets Hot to Sleep On?
Only if you choose the wrong ones.
With the right materials—like breathable TPU, bamboo, and soft fabrics—waterproof sheets can be just as cool and comfortable as your favourite cotton ones. In fact, they can even improve your sleep by keeping allergens, moisture, and bacteria at bay.
✅ Cool.
✅ Dry.
✅ Protected.
It’s a no-brainer—get waterproof protection without the sweat.
👉 Shop our full waterproof bedding range now and rest easy knowing your sleep space is covered from every angle.
Frequently Asked Questions: Are Waterproof Sheets Hot to Sleep On?
Q1: Do waterproof sheets feel like plastic?
A: Only the cheap ones do. Ours feel like regular bedding, thanks to soft top layers and silent TPU waterproofing.
Q2: Are they safe for babies and toddlers?
A: Yes! In fact, they’re ideal for children. Our protectors are non-toxic, breathable, and free from vinyl and harmful chemicals.
Q3: Can waterproof sheets prevent bed bugs?
A: Absolutely. When paired with our full bed isolation system and covers, they act as a physical barrier to stop bugs from reaching your mattress.
🗣️ What Our Customers Are Saying
Waterproof Mattress Protector
“I was skeptical about waterproof mattress protectors, fearing they’d be hot and crinkly. But this one is a game-changer! It’s soft, silent, and I sleep cool all night. Plus, it protected my mattress from a spilled cup of tea without any leaks.”
— Emily R., Melbourne
“With two toddlers, nighttime accidents are common. This protector has saved our mattress multiple times. It’s easy to wash and doesn’t make any noise. Highly recommend!”
— James T., Sydney
Waterproof Duvet Cover
“I purchased the waterproof duvet cover for my elderly mother. It’s breathable, doesn’t trap heat, and provides peace of mind knowing her bedding is protected.”
— Linda M., Brisbane
“Our dog loves to sneak onto the bed. This duvet cover has been a lifesaver, protecting against muddy paws and occasional accidents. It’s soft and doesn’t feel like plastic at all.”
— Mark S., Adelaide
Waterproof Pillow Protectors
“These pillow protectors are fantastic! They’re soft, don’t make any noise, and have protected our pillows from sweat and drool. They wash well and still look new.”
— Sophie L., Perth
“I suffer from allergies, and these protectors have made a noticeable difference. No more waking up with a stuffy nose. Plus, they’re waterproof, which is a bonus.”
— Daniel K., Hobart
If you have enjoyed our blog, Are Waterproof Sheets Hot to Sleep On?, then you might like to read about waterproof bed sheets.
Sources: Are Waterproof Sheets Hot to Sleep On?
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Sleepworld
This article explains that some waterproof mattress protectors, especially those made with plastic materials, can trap heat and lead to sweating. It suggests opting for cooling mattress protectors made from breathable materials like cotton, Tencel, or bamboo to mitigate this issue. -
Ideal Home
The article highlights that waterproof mattress protectors can trap moisture and heat, potentially causing overheating. It advises avoiding plastic-based, non-breathable protectors to prevent discomfort and potential hygiene issues. -
SleepBubble
This source discusses how waterproof mattress protectors often contain plastic films that can retain heat, leading to discomfort for hot sleepers. It recommends using cooling mattress protectors made from breathable materials to enhance sleep quality.
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