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Sydney Meister for PureWow
When it comes to creating the perfect bed, you might be wondering whether a protective mattress pad or a cooling mattress topper is the right addition. Both are designed to enhance the comfort of your mattress, but they serve different purposes. So, how do you choose between them? I asked Dejah Braggs, mattress expert at Healthy Americans, to help break it down. Below, find everything you need to know.
Dejah Braggs is a mattress expert with years of experience covering all things sleep health. As a writer for Healthy Americans, she specializes in helping people improve their rest through informed mattress choices. Her insights have helped countless individuals understand the importance of sleep accessories, including mattress pads and toppers.
First, What Is a Mattress Pad?
A mattress pad is a thin, protective layer that sits on top of your mattress. While it's designed to offer light cushioning, the purpose is a mattress pad is more about shielding your mattress from spills, wear and tear and allergens. As Braggs explains, “Mattress pads are much thinner than toppers and are easier to maintain. You can typically throw them in the washing machine, which makes them a great low-maintenance option.” Because they’re not very thick, however, mattress pads won’t significantly alter the feel of your bed. Instead, mattress pads are often attached like fitted sheets or feature straps in the corners to keep them securely in place.
What Makes a Mattress Topper Different?
If a mattress pad is about spill protection, a mattress topper is designed for noticeable comfort. This is because toppers are thicker than pads and offer a customizable feel: “Mattress toppers can significantly change the feel of your bed,” Braggs explains. “They’re a great solution if you’re not ready to invest in a new mattress but still want to improve your sleep experience.” Toppers come in a variety of materials, including memory foam, latex, wool and feathers, and can either soften or firm up your mattress. Plus, most toppers are secured to the mattress with straps, and they can help prolong the life of a mattress by reducing pressure on the surface. Braggs says, “Toppers are thicker and provide more support, particularly for sensitive areas like your back and neck,” adding, “they’re ideal for sleepers who need extra cushioning.”
If you're looking for a significant change in support and overall feel, a mattress topper is your best bet. But for those seeking light comfort and spill-protection, a mattress pad is the way to go.
So, What’s the Big Difference Between a Mattress Pad and a Topper?
The biggest difference between a mattress pad and a topper is the level of comfort they provide. While a pad offers minimal enhancement, a topper can dramatically change the feel of your mattress. As Braggs puts it, “If you're looking for a significant change in support and overall feel, a mattress topper is your best bet. But for those seeking light comfort and spill-protection, a mattress pad is the way to go.”
A Guide to the Different Types of Mattress Pad and Topper Materials
When deciding between a mattress pad or topper, the material plays a key role in how it will feel and perform. Each material has unique benefits and drawbacks, depending on what you're looking for—whether it's added support, cooling properties, or ease of maintenance. Here’s an in-depth guide to the most common materials used in both mattress pads and toppers, with insights from Braggs.
Excellent support and pressure relief for back and neck
Conforms to body shape for a customized feel
Ideal for those with joint pain or back issues
Cons
Can trap heat, making it uncomfortable for hot sleepers
Difficult to clean (not machine washable)
Heavier and harder to move than other materials
Tempur-pedic
Memory foam is widely used in mattress toppers due to its ability to contour to your body. It's made from polyurethane foam that softens with body heat, allowing it to mold to your shape, while providing tailored support for pressure points like the hips, shoulders and back. To that end, Braggs notes that memory foam “is fantastic for sleepers who need extra support or suffer from chronic back pain because it cradles the body, reducing strain on pressure points.” However, she adds, “Be cautious if you're a hot sleeper, as memory foam tends to retain heat, making it less breathable than other materials.” Long story short? If you prefer memory foam but struggle with night sweats, go for a gel-infused topper (like this one from TEMPUR-PEDIC) to help dissipate body heat and wick away moisture.
Synthetic fibers like polyester or rayon are commonly used in both mattress pads and toppers—specifically down alternative toppers and pads, which are designed to mimic the softness of down (without the allergens). These materials also tend to be light, affordable and easier to care for, making them “ideal for anyone who wants a budget-friendly option with basic protection for their mattress,” per Braggs. Though they’re particularly useful for adding a bit of plushness without drastically altering the firmness of the bed, Braggs cautions that “they might lose their softness over time, especially with heavy use.”
Feather-filled pads and toppers are among the most luxurious options available, typically made from down or feathers sourced from ducks or geese. The basic difference is that feather toppers are thicker and can change the feel of your mattress, whereas feather pads provide a lighter layer of cushioning. Either way, however, both offer a soft, cloud-like sleeping surface that’s ideal for anyone looking for a plush feel: “They’re a great choice if you want that pillow-top experience.” Braggs adds. The only drawback? Feather toppers may not be the best choice for people with allergies: “If you have sensitivities, feather or down materials can aggravate symptoms, so consider hypoallergenic alternatives.”
Available in organic options for people with skin sensitivities
Cons
Minimal change in mattress comfort
Doesn’t offer protection from spills
Absorbs moisture, which could lead to mold buildup
ritz-carlton
Cotton is a popular material—especially for mattress pads—due to its breathability and natural softness. “For mattress pads, cotton is a great choice,” Braggs says, explaining, “It’s breathable, easy to clean and adds just a touch of softness without dramatically changing the feel of your bed.” Indeed, most cotton pads are machine-washable, making them easy to care for, and offer a light layer of comfort for minimal impact. And on that note, it’s worth mentioning that cotton is less commonly used in toppers because it’s not as thick as other materials—it’s intended to be used in combination with other padding to provide softness (without adding much height to the bed). Braggs also warns that “Cotton pads are not as protective against spills, so pairing it with a waterproof cover is a good idea if spill protection is important.”
Naturally resistant to mold, dust mites and allergens
Long-lasting and durable
Cons
Requires hand washing
Heavier than cotton or synthetic options
Expensive compared to other materials
Avocado Green
Wool is a highly durable and naturally moisture-wicking material, often used in both mattress pads and toppers. “If you’re looking for something that’s both eco-friendly and highly effective at regulating temperature, wool is a fantastic option,” says Braggs. This is because wool offers excellent temperature regulation, keeping you cool in summer and warm in winter, while wicking away moisture. What’s more, wool toppers are typically thicker and provide significant cushioning, while wool pads are lighter and better for adding just a hint of softness. Still, Braggs says, “While wool is very durable, it’s harder to clean—wool pads and toppers typically need to be hand-washed.”
Naturally resistant to dust mites, mold, and bacteria
Hypoallergenic, making it ideal for allergy sufferers
Provides excellent support and durability
Cons
Can be expensive, with some latex toppers costing over $300
Heavier and harder to move than memory foam
Saatva
Latex, a material made from either natural or synthetic rubber, is used primarily in mattress toppers due to its supportive yet springy feel. According to Braggs, “Latex toppers are known for their durability and support. They’re perfect for sleepers who want a little bounce but still need the cushioning that supports pressure points.” This is because latex contours to the body similarly to memory foam but tends to be cooler and more responsive. Natural latex is also hypoallergenic, making it a great choice for those with allergies. However, she adds, “Latex can be pricier than other materials, so it’s not always the best option if you’re on a tight budget.”
How the Materials’ Durability and Maintenance Compare
Beyond the feel, it’s essential to consider how long your topper/pad will last, plus how easy it is to maintain. Add to that the fact that different materials vary significantly in their durability and the level of care required to keep them in top condition. So below, a breakdown of each:
Memory foam toppers are known for their durability, often lasting between 5-7 years, depending on the foam's density. However, they require careful maintenance, since they’re not machine washable and need to be spot-cleaned with mild detergent. "A washable cover is a must for memory foam," Braggs advises, as it helps protect against spills and stains. Over time, memory foam can also develop body impressions, so flipping the topper (if possible) can help preserve its shape.
Synthetic fiber pads and toppers are lightweight, affordable and easy to maintain, thanks to most of them being machine washable. However, they are less durable than other materials, typically lasting 2-3 years before flattening out or losing their plushness. Braggs points out that “synthetic fibers are great for budget-conscious shoppers, but they might not hold up as well with heavy use.” Be sure to wash on a gentle cycle and avoid high heat to prevent wear and tear.
Feather toppers can last 3-5 years with proper care, but they require more attention than other materials. Regular fluffing is essential to maintain the even distribution of feathers, which can shift and clump over time. "Feather toppers need regular maintenance, and they don’t always suit allergy sufferers," Braggs notes. While some can be machine washed, professional cleaning is also recommended to maintain their longevity.
Cotton pads are breathable and easy to clean, typically lasting 2-4 years. They’re machine washable, but frequent laundering can cause the material to thin and lose its softness. “Cotton is a great choice for low-maintenance care,” Braggs notes, though she suggests using a waterproof cover if spills are a concern, as cotton is absorbent. To prevent shrinkage, avoid high heat when drying.
Wool is one of the most durable materials, lasting up to 8 years, but it requires special care. Most wool toppers and pads must be hand-washed or dry-cleaned, as machine washing can damage the fibers and cause shrinkage. "Wool is fantastic for temperature regulation and durability, but it needs careful cleaning," Braggs explains. Its natural resilience makes it a great long-term investment for those seeking durability.
Latex toppers are extremely durable, typically lasting 7-10 years, and are naturally resistant to mold and allergens. That said, latex is heavier than other materials and should be spot-cleaned rather than machine-washed. Braggs advises, "Rotate your latex topper regularly to prevent indentations from forming." While latex offers long-lasting support, its weight and maintenance needs make it a bit more cumbersome to care for.
The Bottom Line: Which Should You Choose?
Ultimately, the choice between a mattress pad and a mattress topper depends on your needs. As Braggs explains, “If you’re looking for minimal comfort enhancement and protection, go with a mattress pad. It’s affordable, easy to maintain, and lightweight.” On the other hand, if you're seeking a significant change in your mattress's feel, she suggests opting for a topper: “A mattress topper will give you more cushioning and support, especially for those with pressure points or back pain.” For the best of both worlds, however, Braggs recommends pairing a topper with a mattress pad. "The topper enhances your comfort, while the pad adds a layer of protection.”
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