Mattress Forum

From this forum and from other sites, I've seen four different types of recommendations:

1. Wool pad/protector
2. Cotton pad/protector
3. Wool pad built with cotton lining
4. Get a wool pad, and a separate cotton mattress protector, and put the cotton over the wool

However, I've heard contradictory things about what the best option is. Some say wool is the best protection from moisture. Others say wool wicks away moisture but isn't really sufficient for someone who sweats a lot, and that one should use a cotton pad instead.

Some cotton products are described as "waterproof" and/or are woven tightly enough to prevent dust mites and other particles from getting in. On the other hand, some say cotton is not as breathable as wool.

I want something that's breathable, healthy, and that will protect the mattress, but I'm having trouble evaluating this information. For example, does option #4 make sense and would it be breathable? Option #3 is less expensive than buying two separate products, but is that (for example, the St. Dormeir protector) really water-resistant and does it provide any advantage over wool on its own?

Any recommendations on what option to use?

Thanks!

P.S. Thanks for all the great information on this forum--it was immensely helpful as I went through the shopping and decision-making process.