To the untrained ear, a mattress pad and a mattress topper sound like the same sort of thing. Sure enough, both pads and toppers are designed to sit on top of the mattress and offer an additional layer of comfort through your fitted sheet. With that said, there are key differences between mattress pads and toppers in terms of design features and functionality. The last thing you need is to buy a mattress pad, expecting a thick layer of foam, only to find a thin stretch of fabric.
I learned to tell the difference between mattress pads and mattress toppers early on. I bought my first mattress topper when I went off to college and encountered the world's most uncomfortable innerspring. Since then, I've carried that topper across campus, into my first apartment, and even out on camping trips to get better sleep, wherever I go. I like to protect my mattress topper with a mattress pad. That way, I get an extra line of defence between my bed and my body, guarding against sweat, spills, and stains.
As H&G's resident sleep writer, I lead a team of expert testers in the search to find the world's best mattress toppers, as well as the best mattress pads. Together, we've tested everything from plush pillow-tops to firm memory foam models. I know all the pros and cons of mattress pads vs mattress toppers in terms of fit, feel, and cost, so I can help you find the product that best meets your needs.
Mattress pad vs mattress topper
Before we begin, it always helps to define our terms. I asked Lauri Leadley, Clinical Sleep Educator at Valley Sleep Center, to identify the differences and similarities between mattress pads and mattress toppers.
What's the difference between a mattress pad and a mattress topper?
A mattress topper is a layer of foam, a few inches thick, that goes on top of your mattress and beneath your mattress protector. The point of a mattress topper is to change the look and feel of your mattress for a fraction of the price of a brand-new bed.
'Mattress toppers might be made from memory foam or latex or filled with down or polyester,' explains Lauri. 'Some will come with corner straps for a secure fit, while others feature a grip pad on the underside to stick against the mattress.'
The best way to understand a mattress pad is as a cross between a mattress topper and a mattress protector. Your average mattress pad is filled with down or down alternative, encased in cotton, and stitched together to create a bed skirt. At its thickest, a mattress pad might give you an extra inch of comfort. That's not enough to really change the look or feel of your mattress, but it's plusher than your average mattress protector.
'Mattress pads fit the mattress in much the same way as a fitted sheet,' says Lauri. 'The four corners are elasticated and grip the mattress to stay in place. They're easy to care for and can go straight in the washing machine with the rest of your bedding.'
Mattress pads − the pros and cons
According to Lauri, every mattress needs a mattress pad 'to protect against dust, dirt, and dander.' Even if you buy a mattress topper, it's worth picking up a mattress pad while you're at it. That way, your pad can absorb all the sweat, spills, and stains that come from nightly use, leaving your topper untouched and your mattress clean.
Some mattress pads come with cooling properties. If you suffer from night sweats or hot flashes, or you simply tend to run a little warm, then you might find that one of the best cooling mattress pads solves the problem.
If you've recently bought a new mattress, then you might find you need to sleep with a mattress pad or mattress protector to meet the terms of your mattress warranty. It's the best way to protect your bed and prolong its life.
Remember, if you're seriously unhappy with the look and feel of your bed, a mattress pad is not thick enough to change it. You'd be better off buying a mattress topper or skipping straight to the best affordable mattress to solve the problem.
I think this is the best mattress pad to counter night sweats. The Sijo TempTune Cooling Mattress Pad is filled with thermoregulating fibers and features a waterproof membrane for moisture-wicking: just the thing to keep you cool and dry.
To combat hot flashes, you need a thermoregulating mattress pad. Slumber Cloud believes in proactive, rather than reactive, temperature control and works to keep your body at a neutral temperature all night long.
For natural breathability, sleep with bamboo. I started testing the Cozy Earth Bamboo Mattress Pad in the spring, but it's really come into its own over summer, working to regulate my temperature and offer a little plush comfort.
Mattress toppers – the pros and cons
If you don't like the look or feel of your current mattress, but you can't find the time or money to buy a new one, then you should try a mattress topper. I've written a series of mattress topper buying rules to help you find your ideal firmness. As a general rule, side sleepers do well with a softer topper to cushion their joints, while back and stomach sleepers need something more supportive to keep from sinking into the mattress.
One of the best things about a mattress topper is its portability. You could easily ferry your topper to and from your master bedroom and your guest suite, your college dorm, your vacation rental, your friend's place, and so on. With the right balance of comfort and support, you can get consistently good sleep in any old bed. Adding the right topper to your mattress is far more transformative than adding a mattress pad.
It's worth noting that your average mattress topper is marginally more expensive than a mattress pad. If you can only afford to buy one, I'd buy the mattress pad to keep your bed clean, or hold back to save up for a new mattress later down the line.
This is our reigning champion for the title of 'best mattress topper', with top scores across the board for pressure relief, thermoregulation, motion isolation, and edge support. Sure, it's a little more expensive than a mattress pad, but you can save 40% when you shop with the code TOPPERS40.
You can find more detail in our Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt Topper.
Organic latex offers a similar look and feel to memory foam, but it's far more breathable and sustainable. This mattress topper is filled with GOLS certified organic latex for responsive support and topped with GOTS certified organic wool and cotton for thermoregulation. It's the best bet for hot sleepers and eco-conscious shoppers.
You can find more detail in our Avocado Latex Organic Mattress Topper.
For ultimate plush comfort, you need a pillow-top mattress topper. This one is filled with a unique blend of cross-cut memory foam for support and microfiber for softness. It's a safe bet for side sleepers and anyone who suffers from chronic pain. Fair warning, though: the Coop Retreat Mattress Topper sleeps warm and I wouldn't recommend it for hot sleepers.
You can find more detail in our Coop Retreat Mattress Topper review.
Mattress pad vs mattress topper – which should I buy?
If you like the look and feel of your mattress, but you're keen to add an extra layer of protection beneath the sheets, get the mattress pad. If you want to change the look and feel of your mattress, get the mattress topper (plus one of the best mattress protectors to keep your bed and body clean). It's as simple as that.
FAQs
Do you put a mattress topper under the mattress pad?
Yes. Your mattress topper goes directly over the mattress and beneath your mattress pad or mattress protector.
Will a mattress pad help a bad mattress?
If your mattress is past its prime, then a mattress pad won't help much. Your average pad is too thin to change the look and feel of your mattress, though it might help to prevent further wear and tear. You might have better luck with a mattress topper until you can afford to buy a new mattress. If you're in doubt, consult our expert guide to the signs you're sleeping on a bad mattress.
Final thoughts
Even the best mattress topper or mattress pad won't work miracles. If your mattress is more than seven years old, and coming towards the end of its life, then your time and money might be better spent on the best mattress. I've ranked and reviewed nine options to suit every style of sleeper and size of budget.
