Who knew that buying a bed could be so complicated? Between mattresses, mattress pads, box springs, mattress protectors… it’s hard to know where to begin. However, for those looking to upgrade their sleep experience without splurging on a totally new mattress, a mattress pad is a great option to refresh and renew your bed setup. But what is a mattress pad versus a mattress topper exactly, and how do you know which one is best for you?
Why Choose a Mattress Pad
A mattress pad is a very thin layer of quilted cushion that you add between your mattress and sheets to add an extra feeling of plushness and luxury. It typically includes an elastic edge similar to a fitted sheet, or straps to hold it down in case of any potential tossing and turning in the middle of the night. Mattress pads can be made of many different fabrics, but typically have a soft, cotton-like quality that creates a pillowed feeling as you sleep.
The primary purpose of a mattress pad is to add some softness to a, particularly hard mattress, creating an extra cushion. In addition, they can be used to protect and waterproof your mattress without adding a mattress protector, which is often uncomfortable, noisy, and a little embarrassing. Mattress pads are significantly easier to clean than a mattress or mattress topper, making them a great choice for anyone concerned about messes or spills. For a bed that needs a little pick-me-up, a mattress pad is a wonderful, inexpensive choice to transform your sleeping experience.
Why Choose a Mattress Topper
Unlike mattress pads, mattress toppers are significantly thicker and more plush than a traditional mattress pad, with the goal of adding multiple inches of comfort to your existing bed. Like a mattress pad, they come in many fabrics, but memory foam is the most popular choice since it is breathable and supportive. Mattress toppers tend to be more expensive than mattress pads due to their size.
In addition to the benefits of a mattress pad, mattress toppers tend to be more supportive of aches and pains since they are thicker and mold around your body. In addition, due to their thickness, they are better for much older mattresses that need a serious transformation. They are also much better at masking lumps in an old mattress. However, for that same reason, they are technically not waterproof and much more difficult to clean, meaning they might not be the best choice for some. That being said, many find mattress toppers more cooling than mattress pads since they are light and foamy, making them a great choice for hot sleepers.
Which Should I Choose?
Ultimately, both the mattress pads and mattress toppers have pros and cons depending on your needs, preferences, and budget, but both can be a great option for those looking to save a few dollars and improve their sleep. If you can’t make a decision, you can always use both at once! No matter which you end up choosing, you’ll be sure to love your new bed and get a great night’s rest.
