Mattress and pillow protectors are a great way to help extend the life of your mattress or pillow. A mattress or pillow protector guards against accidental spills, sweat, dead skin cells and other associated food items for dust mites and bed bugs. A waterproof protector also allows your mattress and pillow to breathe and helps protect against allergies. When buying a brand new, expensive pillow or mattress, it makes sense to protect it and yourself.