The fabric covering the mattress is known as what?

The fabric covering the mattress is referred to as ticking. Ticking is a durable and often tightly woven fabric that encases the filling material of a mattress, providing protection and contributing to the overall aesthetic. It is designed to be strong to withstand wear and tear, as well as to help contain the internal materials, such as foam or springs, that give the mattress its structure and comfort.

Padding, upholstery, and liner are terms associated with different aspects of furniture and bedding. Padding generally refers to the soft material added for comfort, upholstery relates to the fabric cover applied to furniture cushions and seats, and a liner is normally a separate layer used in conjunction with other materials but not typically the external fabric covering itself. Thus, ticking is the proper term for the specific covering of a mattress.