Hi there! Are you also confused with the difference between a mattress topper and a mattress pad? Ahh ahh……I guessed it right!! Whether you are here because you have a new mattress and want to protect it from spills or you have an old mattress and want to make it more comfortable for the night, or simply want to add an additional layer of comfort to your mattress. Either way, you’ve come to the right place. Here you can find all your answers and who knows maybe you’ll be an expert in this.

Let’s dig right into it……..

Even though both mattress pads and mattress toppers have the same goal of providing you with ultimate comfort. However, since you can only buy one to top your mattress and they both sound so similar, it can be confusing. All mattress toppers/pads provide you with an additional layer of support so that you can sleep peacefully.

They also help enhance the lifespan of your mattress. We understand that buying a mattress is a big investment and it is as important to protect it for a longer life span. That’s why we recommend you get a mattress topper or a mattress pad for your purchase and give your mattress the care it deserves.

What Is A Mattress Topper?

A mattress topper is usually made to give your mattress more support. They are more luxurious and upgraded versions as compared to a mattress pad as they are much thicker and provide for a stouter and softer overall experience for your bed. Since mattress toppers are much denser than a mattress pads they come in a variety of filling options such as cotton, memory foam, down-feathers, gel memory foam, polyester, and also latex rubber. Many times, a mattress topper can also be mistaken for a mini mattress, because of its look of it. Another reason people buy a memory topper is as it helps act as a barrier between your body and your mattress.

Even though it is seen as a luxurious addition to your bedding collection, it may be necessary for many people suffering from back or neck pain as it helps assist them by being a pressure point relief system. They can be found in soft options or firmer options, depending on the material being used for the inside filling of your mattress topper.

Also, it’s a good idea to get a mattress topper if you are no longer happy with your mattress (it’s become old and uncomfortable) or even if it’s something you have recently purchased but does not satisfy your needs, and you are not ready to replace it….we understand it’s a significant investment. The best way is to add a mattress topper to your bedding option which can help change the overall feel of your mattress. A mattress topper can do the magic of giving you an entirely different experience depending on the one you choose by being able to provide you with a cushiony level of comfort or the right level of firmness and help improve the quality of your sleep.

Many toppers help wick away moisture from your body to keep you cool and comfortable, especially during hot summer months. Some of the most common examples such as the MLILY Cool Gel Memory Foam Mattress Topper which is 2 inches thick. This gel foam mattress topper helps relieve you of migraines and headaches as It comes with a special ability to correct spinal alignment to alleviate neck pain. A memory foam mattress molds to your body, conforming to each curve, and then returns to its natural shape when not in use.

Mattress toppers do not come with a fitted sheet option and you should check the size and construction of your mattress when making a purchase. Also remember, buying a mattress topper may not be such a good idea if your bed or mattress is showing signs of irreparable damage. In this case, buying a topper would be more costly than a good purchase. You might want to consider, investing in a new mattress that can last for 10-15 years.

What Is A Mattress Pad?

Mattress pads are slightly different. They help provide you with more additional comfort but do not give you as much extra support for your mattress as a mattress topper would since they tend to be quite thin. Another advantage of a mattress pad is that it can protect your mattress from being stained or damaged. They also tend to go on like a fitted bed sheet. You can wash them as often as you want to give your bedding a fresh look, …did I mention they are machine washable too…

Imagine you can have breakfast on your bed and not worry about your mattress getting dirty!! It also comes in handy when you have kids.

There are many pads and toppers which are waterproof and stain-proof, so in case there is a spill, your mattress can still be protected by your mattress pad. That being said, it also helps protect you from dangerous mold formation. Many people simply buy a mattress pad to protect from dust mites, bugs, and other allergens, which helps keep your sleep quality to the finest. Keep in mind to always check the label for the manufactures washing instructions that come with the product.  

It is pretty easy to install a mattress pad and generally is done in the same manner as you would lay a perfectly fitted sheet onto your mattress.  

Our best-selling Australian Wool Mattress Pad has temperature-regulating properties of natural wool with a thin 1/2 inch exposed wool pile. 

We understand that some people prefer to sleep with natural fibers rather than with synthetic fibers. Mattress pads usually have a 15-inch grip skirt which acts like a fitted bed sheet to stay secure on your deep contoured mattress. The fill material and thickness determine the firmness of your mattress pad. So, in case you have a very firm mattress, you can buy a softer mattress pad to enhance your comfort while sleeping or vice-versa.

What Are My Options For Mattress Pads/ Toppers?

The quality and filling material help determine the kind of mattress pad that would be suitable for you.

Bamboo Mattress Pads/Toppers

Bamboo Mattress Pads are designed to meet your eco-friendly lifestyle as they are made with bamboo materials where the outer shell is made of 100% Bamboo from viscose and the inner is filled with 100% natural long strand Bamboo fiber. This is a great summer addition to your bedding.

Wool Fleece Mattress Pad/ toppers

A Wool Mattress Pad helps regulate your body’s temperature by keeping you warm in winter and cool in summer. Wool tends to naturally hypoallergenic, which provides relief from allergies along with being a renewable and sustainable resource.

Silk Mattress Pad/Toppers

The Silk Mattress Pads are made designed with an outer covering made of 100% cotton fabric and the inner material to be filled with silk. Since silk is a natural fiber it helps regulate your body’s temperature.

Down Feather Pad/Topper

Down Feather Pads are great option as it helps achieve the extra softness you might need for a firm mattress.

As you might notice many mattress pads come with the option of being waterproof or water-resistant. A waterproof material means that the water will not penetrate at all whereas a water-resistant option suggests that the material would resist the penetration of water to some degree but not entirely. Yet some toppers and pads are made just to provide you with a more comfortable good night’s sleep.  

 Advantage and Downsides of Mattress Pads/Toppers

Just like all products, mattress pads and mattress toppers also have their positive and negative points. We’ve made a checklist for you so that it is easier for you to decide what is better for you and your loved ones.

Benefits Of A Mattress Topper

• Mattress toppers are good if you find that your mattress is not giving you enough support, but you are not looking to replace the whole mattress currently.
• They also help provide additional support for people facing backaches, neck pain, or other joint pain issues.
• Work as an added layer of security to protect your mattress from stains and sagging
• Can help change the look of your mattress for a fraction of the price of buying an actual mattress

Benefits Of A Mattress Pad

• Mattress pads are easy to carry and store since they are thinner and lighter than a mattress topper. They are also machine washable.
• Help provide an additional layer of protection to your mattress, protecting it from moisture and stains
• It is a great choice especially if you are on a tight budget. Mattress pads are a budget-friendly option when it comes to being an addition to your mattress, to get a good sleep.
• Easy to remove and clean whenever needed; also comes in a waterproof option
• Helps alleviate the noise level of your mattress due to your body’s movement (some mattresses have materials that might create noise as you move during sleep)

Downsides of A Mattress Topper

• Since they are attached directly to the mattress, they can move as you move around with your body.
• It can be a hassle to clean a mattress topper.
• They are more expensive than a mattress pad but definitely a cheaper alternative than buying a whole mattress.
• Even though they offer a great deal of protection to your mattress, they are not a good option in case you are looking to protect your mattress from spills and stains.

Downsides of A Mattress Pad

• Since they are supposed to be a thinner addition to your mattress, they might not provide enough of a noticeable comfort level to your bedding.
• They can be delicate and more prone to damage as compared to a mattress pad.
• Not thick enough if you are looking for pressure relief  

Takeaway Message

In the end, it comes to you to decide what is best for you. But keep in mind, if you are looking to add an additional layer of comfort to your mattress, then buy a mattress topper, but if you plan on changing your mattress anytime soon then it’s better to invest in a mattress pad. You probably cannot make up for a severely damaged or sagging mattress with any of these additions. And in case of any health symptoms such as increased back or neck pain or other, it’s best to consult with your doctor. It is all up to you depending on your requirements whether you want your bed surface to be boosted or changed.