What Are Mattress Pads

What is your familiarity with mattress pads? Is your nice mattress giving you any trouble?

Don’t stress! Learn all about mattress pads by reading this article!

I know you are eager to expand your knowledge in this area.

Don’t waste any more time and read on down below!

What Mattress Pads Are?

Mattress pads, then, what are they? If you want to take your mattress comfort to the next level, a mattress pad is the way to go.

A pad’s only function is to make an already comfortable mattress even more so.

Its usual placement is between the sheets, covering the top.

Most modern mattresses are comfortable enough to sleep on directly without an additional pad.

A mattress pad is another way to keep your bed safe.

Extra padding and the possibility of it being waterproof and hypoallergenic would make it a worthwhile investment.

If you need extra support or comfort from your mattress for medical reasons, a mattress pad is a great solution.

You can always put a mattress pad on top if the mattress is too firm for your liking.

Using a mattress pad, you can modify the firmness of an older mattress that is causing you discomfort.

In this way, you won’t have to spend as much on a brand-new replacement.

Last but not least, if your bed is noisy, a mattress pad can help.

What Are The Different Types Of Mattress Pads?

Mattress toppers can be made from a wide variety of materials, each with its own set of advantages in terms of comfort and safety.

The various kinds and their respective uses are outlined below.

Cotton mattress pads

Because of their comfort and longevity, these pads are a popular choice.

They are cheap and long-lasting. Cotton, on the other hand, may not be the most dependable material for resisting stains.

Wool mattress pads

These pads are more comfortable and wick away moisture effectively. Sheep are the source of wool, a highly desirable textile.

However, wool pads may be difficult to maintain. It’s because you can’t throw them in the washing machine.

Spills and stains will soak through a wool mattress pad just as they would through a cotton one.

Feather mattress pads

Feathers from ducks and geese are used to create these cushions. They are warm, comfortable, and soft as well.

However, they are pricey and inconvenient because of their inability to prevent mattress spills.

Fiber Mattress Pads

This alternative to down features fiberfill sourced from rayon and polyester.

The inability to put these pads in the washing machine raises concerns about noise and convenience of care.

Latex Mattress Pads

They are made with either natural or synthetic latex, or a combination of the two.

In addition, latex pads, depending on their density, can provide springiness and softness.

Like other mattress pads, they are expensive and can be a pain to keep clean.

These pads, which work best with latex mattresses, shield your bed from stains and wear and tear.

Memory foam mattress pads

This sort of pad is scarce on store shelves. It’s comforting to know that it adds a lot of padding to your mattress.

They are not stain-resistant and cannot be washed in a washing machine.

What are mattress toppers?

A mattress topper can be thought of as a step up from a standard mattress pad.

They both accomplish the same thing, which is to increase the coziness of one’s bed.

A mattress topper is a thick piece of fabric that is placed on top of your mattress and secured in place with straps.

Here you can find the instructions for using these embellishments.

What Is The Difference Between Mattress Pads And Mattress Toppers?

Here are some key distinctions between pads and toppers to keep in mind.

Purpose

Pads prevent allergens from seeping into the mattress, while toppers improve comfort.

Composition

Pads for mattresses are typically made of cotton or polyester, while mattress toppers can be made from a variety of materials.

Thickness

A mattress pad is meant to be tucked under the sheet, while a topper is meant to be placed directly on top of the mattress.

Cushioning

A mattress topper can alter the surface’s texture, making it more pleasant to sleep on.

There isn’t much that mattress pads can do to improve the feel of a bed.

Durability

While mattress pads may only last a few years with proper care, toppers are commonly manufactured from long-lasting materials.

Cost

There is a wide price range for mattress pads, from $75 to $400.

However, mattress pads are available for under $100, making them a much more affordable option.

Pros and cons of Mattress pads

Protecting the mattress from accidents like spills, stains, and sweat is a clear benefit of using a mattress pad.

They are not only less expensive, but also simple to clean and maintain.

However, they are easily damaged and don’t provide nearly as much comfort as mattress toppers do.

Pros and cons of mattress topper

The addition of a mattress topper can completely alter the comfort level of your bed.

People who prefer to sleep on their stomachs or sides can also opt for toppers.

Manufacturers sometimes use latex and feathers, which makes them both expensive and an allergen.

We Spent a Day Testing Mattress Pads in Our Lab—Here are 10 of the Best

Best Overall: ViscoSoft ViscoSoft Copper Mattress Pad

Our Favorites

• Fluffy and comfortable exterior
• It’s cozy and reassuring in here.
• Position of average cost
• Holds the mattress firmly in place with its snug fit.

Things we dislike

• Not as breathable; temperatures may rise
• The fill isn’t perfectly smooth; it causes lumps.

What do the clients think? Over eighty-six percent (1,500 ) of reviewers on Amazon gave this product four or more stars.

Think about how you prefer to sleep when shopping for a mattress topper. If you toss and turn throughout the night, a quieter option might appeal to you, while sleeplessness caused by overheating would benefit from a cooling system. Because it most accurately depicts the essential qualities of a high-quality mattress pad, this alternative was chosen as the best. It is firm enough to keep you from rolling off your mattress, yet soft enough to make you feel like you’re sleeping on a cloud. The cost is reasonable in comparison to similar offerings, but still high enough to guarantee premium materials.

This mattress pad scored a 3 out of 5 for breathability in our The Lab tests, meaning that it can get a little warm due to its extra plush and may not be ideal for hot sleepers or for use during the summer. While it did not receive a perfect score for comfort in our lab tests, the plush did add a layer of softness that made it more comfortable for side and stomach sleepers.

The only surefire way to know if a mattress pad is going to work for you is to give it a try. This choice includes a 60-day trial period during which you can request a refund if it doesn’t meet your needs.

Blend of polyester and polyurethane; Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, and King sizes; no official approvals; 60-day money-back guarantee

Best Budget: Utopia Bedding Quilted Fitted Mattress Pad

What We Enjoy

• extremely breathable
• Generally gentle texture
• Save money

Things we dislike

• No water resistance
• Insufficiently encouraging

It’s understandable if you’re on the hunt for a durable mattress pad that won’t break the bank. If you’re on a tight budget but still want a comfortable place to sleep, this option may be for you. The Utopia mattress pad scored 4 out of 5 stars for airflow, which is above average compared to other models. It’s not watertight, but if you don’t have any particularly clumsy people in your household, that might not be a problem. Of course, mishaps do occur, and if they do, you can simply throw this mattress pad in the washing machine.

If you tend to shift positions while sleeping, your mattress pad might be the cause of your tangled sheets and blankets. No matter how much you toss and turn during the night, this solution will remain firmly in place on your mattress. For this reason, we gave it a perfect score of 5 stars. This long-lasting mattress pad is available in a range of sizes to suit a wide range of bedrooms and bedframes.

Microfiber construction; Twin, Twin XL, Full, Full XL, Short Queen, Queen, King, and California King sizing; No official certifications; Return policy varies by store.

Best Splurge: Birch Living Birch by Helix Organic Mattress Pad

Our Favorites

• Certified organic cotton
• Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) and Fair Trade Certified (FTC)
• Comfortable and breathable
• Washable in a washing machine

Things we dislike

• Slightly costly

As the saying goes, “you get what you pay for.” The Birch by Helix Organic Mattress Pad fits this description. This breathable and hypoallergenic mattress pad is crafted from 100% fair trade and GOTS certified organic cotton. This option is great for warm sleepers because of the cotton material’s breathability; in our tests, it received 4.5 out of 5 stars.

The design is classy and understated, with tiny tufts that aren’t visible when a fitted sheet is on top. This mattress pad has an elastic edge that prevents it from sliding under you while you sleep, no matter how much you toss and turn. Like a cotton tee in the summer, this mattress pad can handle some moisture before drying out. In the event of a major spill, you can simply toss the entire thing into the washing machine. Given its many useful features, this mattress pad deserves a perfect score of five stars.

You can expect to pay more for this level of quality. Those who are on the fence about purchasing due to the high cost can rest assured knowing that the mattress comes with a 100-night sleep trial and a 1-year warranty.

Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, and California king GOTS-certified organic cotton bedding is available in a variety of sizes. One hundred night grace period and one year guarantee on returns.

Best Down Alternative: SUPERIOR Down Alternative Mattress Topper

What We Enjoy

• Adds comfort to the mattress by functioning as a pillow top.
• In a washing machine

Things we dislike

• Overfilled to the point where a bed sheet barely fits
• Lacking elasticized fittings to prevent shifting on the bed.

A down alternative is a synthetic filling used in place of natural down in pillows and duvets. This mattress pad has a microfiber exterior and is stuffed with synthetic polyfill. This makes the top of the mattress incredibly plush and comfortable to lie on. The support of this mattress topper was rated as four stars overall by our experts. This topper is technically machine washable in the event of a spill, but its large size means it may not be suitable for use in smaller machines.

Although the fill is guaranteed to stay put, our tests showed that the entire mattress pad moved around. A mattress topper, in contrast to a mattress pad, does not have elastic or any other attachments to keep it in place and simply sits on top of the mattress to provide additional padding. The fill provides a comfortable cushion but may be too thick. The thick stuffing layer made it difficult to pull a fitted sheet over the top, though it does appear to flatten with use.

All in all, this is a nice mattress topper that can be used to soften up harder mattresses. If you buy it with that expectation in mind, you will find that it meets those needs admirably; for this reason, we gave it five stars out of five for efficiency. If you’re looking to safeguard your mattress, however, you may want to check out some other mattress pad choices instead.

Twin, full, queen, and king sizes | Microfiber shell with down alternative polyfill | No certifications | Return policy varies by retailer

Best Design: Coyuchi Organic Mattress Pad

Our preferences

• Comfortable and breathable
• Fabric made entirely of organic cotton
• Simple, yet elegant style
• Moderately water-resistant

The things that annoy us

• Thinner versions don’t offer the same degree of durability.
• Because of the cost of the material.

This stylish and practical mattress pad is a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality product that won’t break the bank. The Coyuchi Organic Mattress Pad has refined, white tufts that stand out when the sheet is removed but disappear completely when covered up with a fitted sheet. This mattress pad, which is made from 100% organic cotton, scores 4 out of 5 for comfort and ventilation. The breathable, lightweight fabric helps keep your body temperature down while you sleep.

This is a thinner material, so it won’t be as plush as some mattress pads, and it costs more because it’s crafted from cotton that was grown without harming the environment. The elastic band keeps it in place, even with active sleepers, and the deep pockets can accommodate a wider mattress. You can try out this mattress topper risk-free for 30 days and exchange it for a different size if you don’t like it.

Twin, full, queen, king, and California king sizes; GOTS- and Made-Safe-certified organic cotton; 30-day money-back guarantee.

Best Organic: Avocado Organic Cotton Mattress Pad Protector

What We Enjoy

• Soft, breathable silk
• Premium organic cotton
• Green seals of approval

Things we dislike

• A bit on the pricey side
• No water resistance

The Avocado Organic Cotton Mattress Pad Protector is another great organic option that has earned eco-friendly certifications so you can rest easy knowing it was made with minimal environmental impact. One reason is that it has been certified as having low chemical emissions by the Greenguard organization. The Made Safe certification guarantees that it does not include any potentially harmful substances, such as flame retardants. Although there is no waterproof coating on this mattress pad due to the organic manufacturing process, it seems to be quite resilient to accidental spills.

The fabric is smooth and silky to the touch, and it breathes well because it’s made from cotton. It’s not as fluffy as some of the alternatives, so if you have a firm mattress, it might not be the best choice for you. This mattress pad is more expensive than the others on this list, but it is made of high-quality cotton that will last for years and won’t harm the environment.

Twin, Full, Queen, King | Greenguard, GOTS, climate neutral, certified vegan, FSC, and made safe | 100-night trial plus 1-year warranty | Material: GOTS organic certified cotton | Certifications:

Best Cooling: The Company Store Cooling Mattress Pad

Our Favorites

• Having plenty of natural light and modern cooling systems
• Exceptionally cozy

The things that annoy us

• Not watertight

If you tend to overheat easily, trying to get to sleep in the summer may be an exercise in futility as you toss and turn trying to find the coolest part of your bed. A cooling mattress pad is perfect for this situation. The Company Store’s breathable and lightweight offering is crafted from a mix of cotton and CoolMax moisture-wicking poly fibers to maintain a constant, ideal sleeping temperature throughout the night. Our team of sleep experts gave this mattress a four-star rating overall because of how well it breathed.

This is not a waterproof mattress protector, but it will keep you dry. This mattress pad is as comfortable as some pillow toppers thanks to the cotton layer that provides a soft feel (so comfortable that it almost put to sleep our testers, earning a perfect score in that category). This mattress topper comes with a generous 90-day trial period so you can try it out risk-free.

Twin, full, and king; cotton and CoolMax moisture-wicking poly fibers; no certifications; 90-day return policy

Best Waterproof: AllerEase Platinum 360 Zip-Off Top Mattress Protector

What We Enjoy

• The outer fabric is machine washable.
• Protective mattress zippers that encircle the whole thing
• Protective plastic wraps the zipper for peace of mind.
• Waterproof

The things that annoy us

• Stacks up under the duvet cover
• Sometimes too hot

The AllerEase Platinum Mattress Protector completely encloses the mattress, in contrast to elasticized mattress pads. It’s easier to clean (just unzip the top and toss it in the washing machine) and more resistant to water damage. A plastic barrier in addition to the zipper helps keep liquids, dust mites, and other allergens out of the mattress. Because of these features, we gave it a perfect score of 5 stars.

This mattress topper may become too hot to sleep on in the summer due to the soft polyester material on top. Testing also revealed that it has a propensity to bunch slightly under the fitted sheet. This mattress protector does a good job of repelling moisture and providing a comfortable surface on which to sleep.

Sizes available are twin, full, queen, and king; certifications are not required; and there is a 90-day return policy and a lifetime limited warranty on the product.

Best for Pest Protection: Hospitology Products Sleep Defense System Mattress Encasement

Our Favorites

• No leaks, no spills
• Budget-friendly
• Maximum security zipper construction

Disliked Features

• There is no softness or padding.
• A little too loud

It’s not pleasant to consider, but our beds attract pests like dust mites and bed bugs. Protect your mattress from spills and stains with this encasement system and you won’t have to worry about these tiny pests getting in. The Hospitology Products Mattress Encasement, as the name suggests, is not a plush mattress topper but rather a protective cover for your mattress. We rated this system’s efficacy as a perfect five stars because it is so good.

We found it to be somewhat noisy when we laid on it; this is likely due to the fact that it is more of a cover than a soft pad. However, the addition of sheets and bedding should muffle the surface somewhat. This brand offers a 5-year warranty to ensure it lasts as long as advertised, and there is a wide selection of sizes to accommodate whatever bed you need protection for.

Fabricated from polyester; available in twin, twin XL, full, full XL, queen, king, and California king sizes; not endorsed by any official body. Store-specific return policies, plus a limited 5-year warranty

Best Spill-Proof: SafeRest Premium Hypoallergenic Mattress Protector

Things We Dig

• Waterproof
• Affordable price

The Things That Bother Us

• It’s more like a mattress cover than a pad.
• Warms up quickly due to retaining heat.

Spills are inevitable in a home with kids, pets, or people who are just clumsy in general. Mattress pads made from materials that prevent spill absorption into the mattress are available to help with this issue. The cotton terry surface of this SafeRest option has a membrane back coating to prevent absorption of spills, making it completely spill-proof.

This choice is available in multiple sizes, from twin to California king, making it suitable for both children and adults. It also comes with a 10-year warranty for added peace of mind. In the opinion of our sleep experts, this is more of a mattress cover than a mattress pad, so if you have a firm mattress and are looking for something to soften it, look elsewhere. The testers gave it a perfect score of 5 stars for comfort and support, so it’s not like they found it unpleasant to use. In conclusion, if you value the longevity of your mattress and the prevention of stains and dirt, this is the perfect cover for you.

Twin, full, queen, king, and California king sizes; cotton terry with a membrane back coating; no required certifications; return policy varying by retailer; 10-year warranty

How We Tested the Mattress Pads

Members of The Spruce’s editorial staff spent a day at The Lab putting 12 recommended products through their paces. We rated each topper on a scale from 1 to 5 for comfort, support, breathability, efficacy, durability, and overall value, and 10 of the 12 made the cut.

We had a panel of testers lie down and roll around on each mattress pad, keeping track of how the pads felt overall and whether or not they shifted or crinkled. To test the waterproofness of a mattress pad, we poured half a cup of dyed water onto it and saw if it kept the fitted sheet and mattress dry underneath. Using a hair dryer, we determined how much air was able to pass through each topper to determine its breathability. To compile this list, we considered these factors in addition to the extensive research conducted by our writers and editors.

FAQs

What’s the difference between a mattress topper and a mattress pad?

Mattress toppers add a thin layer of padding to an already comfortable mattress, while mattress pads prevent wear and tear. Not all mattress pads are padded, but all mattress toppers have extra stuffing to make your mattress feel softer. Most are designed to repel liquids and dirt from the mattress, while others simply improve the surface’s feel. Mattress pads prevent your mattress from wearing out, while mattress toppers soften your bed.

When do you need a mattress pad?

If there is a high likelihood of dirt and spills on your mattress due to the presence of children or pets in the home, or if you simply want to protect your mattress from stains, you may want to invest in a mattress pad. If you share a bed with someone who prefers a softer or firmer mattress, this is something to think about as well. If you prefer a softer mattress but your partner prefers a firmer one, a mattress pad can help you achieve the feel of a softer mattress without compromising on support.

How often should you wash a mattress pad?

Casper suggests adjusting how often you clean your mattress pad to how often you use it. If it’s used sparingly, like in a guest bedroom, you may be able to go a few months without washing it. The standard recommendation for more high-traffic areas is to clean it every two months. You should wash your bedding after getting sick to get rid of any lingering germs, and any spills should be cleaned up right away.

What to Look for in a Mattress Pad

Material

Think about the season and your sleeping environment when deciding on a mattress pad material. Mattress pads made of cotton or poly-cotton are typically the least expensive and most breathable. More specialized materials, such as down or wool, can provide warmth in the winter and flexibility in warmer climates. You should also find out if the mattress pad can be washed in a machine in case of any accidents.

Depth

Make sure the mattress pad is deep enough for your bed to prevent the hassle and frustration of trying to stretch a too-small pad over your mattress. While a pad designed for a standard mattress should work fine, those with a deep or extra-deep mattress will need to look elsewhere. Even though the sides and corners of modern mattress pads are designed to stretch to accommodate a wide variety of mattress depths, it is still a good idea to measure your mattress to be sure.

Standout Features

Washability

Try to find a mattress pad that can be put through the washing machine and dried in the dryer. You can wash the sleeping area without taking off the entire cover, as some mattress pads have a removable top that zips off.

Extra protection

Some mattress pads serve a purpose beyond simply preventing direct mattress contact. Protect your mattress from leaks and messes with a waterproof mattress pad; just make sure to pick one that isn’t too crinkly. The six-sided barrier provided by bed bug mattress pads effectively seals off your bed from the intruders.

What Are Mattress Pads And How To Clean And Dry Them?

How to clean mattress pads

While it’s fine to wash sheets, blankets, and pillows in the washing machine, mattress pads should be spot cleaned instead. Pads, especially foam toppers, are vulnerable to destruction in the washing machine.The same methods used to keep a mattress clean can also be used to keep a mattress pad clean.A mattress protector is an excellent tool for maintaining a clean pad, as it blocks the passage of both liquids and dirt.

However, there are numerous variations of pads. Cotton, wool, memory foam, Down, and synthetic fiber are among these.

There is no universally effective method of cleaning because of this. For this reason, it is crucial to always refer to and adhere to the manufacturer’s care guidelines. Most labels will state that the item should only be hand washed, dry cleaned, or spot cleaned.

Cotton, wool, and down pillows are the only ones that can be washed in the machine. These pads can be washed in the washing machine, but doing so too often will cause premature wear.

The following is a suggested routine for washing your pad.

Prepare the Pad for the wash

Take off any sheets or blankets and place the pad on the floor. Be sure to protect your carpet or hardwood floors by placing something underneath the item before setting it down.If you want to protect the underside from dirt, use a tarp even if you’re putting it on a vinyl, tiled, or cement floor. Get some good airflow going in there.Second, gather up your cleaning supplies. Begin by clearing the area of any debris using a strong vacuum equipped with a soft brush attachment. Move in circular motions across the pad to sweep away grime and other buildup.

You can also use a brush to remove the dust and dirt, and then give the mattress topper a light shake to release the particles.

Now that the pad has been cleaned, any stains, discoloration, or wear and tear will stand out more starkly.

Treat Stains and Odors

Put in the washing machine or use an enzyme cleaner. This can be purchased from a store, or it can be made at home with water, lemon juice, and distilled white vinegar in a 1:1:1 ratio.Sprinkle water on a stained area to dampen it. Then, spray on your cleaning agent and let it sit for 15 to 20 minutes, depending on the severity of the stain.The next step is to scrub the stain, beginning at the outer edge and working your way inward.

Use a clean towel or sponge to rinse with water. Blot up the cleaning agent while repeatedly rinsing the sponge to remove all traces of soap. To get rid of the stain, just keep doing it.

If the pad is particularly grimy, you should clean the entire surface and then rinse it several times with a clean cloth dipped in clean water to remove the soap. The pad can also be hosed down. Then, roll it to extract even more liquid. Never ring the pad; doing so risks tearing it.

Odors

Baking soda and sodium bicarbonate are effective deodorizers. It’s best to let the baking soda sit on the mattress pad for at least 8 hours, preferably overnight. Next, collect the dust in a vacuum.Cleaning a stain can teach you a lot about how to treat odors left behind after a spill or other wet accident.Regular airing out of your pad is essential for odor control. This can be done whenever you change your sheets.

You and your digs both benefit from some fresh air and sunlight.

You should let your mattress pad air out in the sun or somewhere with good ventilation for a few days. Dry your mattress pad thoroughly before replacing it on your bed.

This is a standard method for cleaning mattress pads, but it may not be appropriate for all mattress pads. The following discussion will examine the best methods for washing various mattress pads.

How to Clean Cotton pads

Due to their thinner construction, these pads can be cleaned with relative ease. The pad can be washed in the washing machine with warm or cold water and a gentle detergent.Put the pad in the dryer. Keep the pad fluffy by doing this at the lowest temperature allowed and using rubber, wool, or tennis balls.Make sure you know if the item can be dried in a machine. Otherwise, let it dry naturally. Be sure it’s dry all the way through before using it.

Wool Pads

Care instructions should be found on the product’s tag. Using cold water and a mild detergent will yield the best results. These pads can be machine washed or cleaned by hand. It’s important to use a gentle cycle, though.

This pad can be dried by hanging it on a clothesline or a drying rack.

Foam mattress pads

When cleaning, be sure to refer to the product’s manual. This point can’t be emphasized enough. For mattress pads made of foam, this is crucial. They are more fragile than standard cloth pads and may even melt in the dryer if subjected to too much heat.Keep in mind that you can get rid of any odors or stains on your mattress by using the spot cleaning method.To clean the entire pad, mist it with water or a mild cleaning solution and scrub gently. A low-sudsing detergent is recommended for easier rinsing. If there are pet stains, an enzyme-based cleaner can be added for an extra deep cleaning.

After 20 to 30 minutes, lightly rinse with a handheld shower head or in a tub or shower to remove any lingering solution.

Avoid wringing out. Remove any surplus moisture by squeezing or sucking it up with a wet/dry vacuum. Spread it out in the sun and air for a few days to dry thoroughly. Dry your mattress pad thoroughly before replacing it on your bed.

Down Mattress Pads

Once again, refer to the label for washing and maintenance instructions.Check the pad for tears and loose seams before using it on someone with Down syndrome. In this way, your washing machine won’t get clogged with feathers.The next step in effective stain removal is to let a cleaning solution sit on the stain for at least ten minutes before washing. To keep your down performing at its best, use a down cleaner whenever possible.

We advise using the front-loading washer if the down is safe for machine washing. The load capacity of this is high. In addition, a top-loading machine’s central agitator can rip your pad and scatter all the feathers.

Rinse twice with cool water and the delicate cycle. Use the lowest setting possible when drying. Keeping the volume low at all times. Put in some tennis balls or dryer balls to plump up the down.

Periodically, use your fingers to unclump the feathers in the mattress pad. The pad will dry more uniformly if you do this.

Before putting the pad back on the bed, check to make sure it is dry.

Conclusion!

You did well to find out what mattress pads are. Mattress pads, then, what are they? They keep your mattress clean and comfortable.

Like various mattress toppers, they come in a variety of forms.