Sleep Essentials, Inc.

Mattress Pad vs. Mattress Topper – Which Do You Need

Most people are confused between mattress toppers and mattress pads. While these terms are interchanged by many and are commonly used to mean the same thing, they are different from each other.  

What is a Mattress Pad?

Mattress pads add an additional layer of luxury and comfort to your mattress. They are typically 1 or 2 inches thick. The purpose of a mattress pad isn’t to change the bed’s firmness drastically but to make your bed feel plush. They are often attached to fitted sheets or have straps on the corner to hold them to the mattress. Mattress pads can be made from natural and synthetic materials or a combination of both.  

Why Would You Need a Mattress Pad?

People can require a mattress pad for multiple reasons. Some of the common reasons include:

  • To soften a very firm mattress
  • To add structure to a very soft mattress
  • To protect the bed from spills and other accidents
  • To protect the bed from mites and dust
  • For additional support and comfort due to health reasons
  • To make an old and uncomfortable bed more comfortable if you cannot replace it immediately.
  • As a quiet alternative to a mattress protector, which can be noisy due to the waterproof material. 

Types of Mattress Pads 

Mattress pads come in different materials. While some models are made solely to protect the mattress from wear and tear, others may be manufactured to keep people’s bodies cool when they sleep. Common types of mattress pads include: 

Feather Pads

Feather mattress pads are made using geese or duck feathers. They have a luxurious feel and are useful to soften a firm bed. The material is breathable, controlling heat buildup. Most feather mattress pads come with a baffle box construction to distribute the fill evenly. You must fluff a feather mattress pad regularly to prevent the feathers from clumping and creating an uneven surface.

Wool Mattress Pad

Wool is primarily sourced from sheep. It keeps moisture away and prevents heat from building up. Wool is commonly used in mattress pads because it is a natural fire barrier. Such a thick mattress pad can make a firm mattress feel cozy without too much heat. 

Fiber Mattress Pads

Fiber mattress pads are made of polyester fill and are suitable for people who are sensitive to down feathers. Such a thin mattress pad is soft, lightweight, and machine washable. Fiber mattress pads are ideal for sleepers who want to add extra cushioning to their beds without hindering movement.  

What is a Mattress Topper?

Mattress toppers are an upgraded version of mattress pads. They are comparatively thicker and change the firmness level of a mattress noticeably. Mattress toppers can be between 1 and 4 inches thick. They are placed on top of the mattress above which you can put your mattress covers. Some come with straps to attach them securely to the mattress. They don’t protect the mattress from spills, dust, or mites. 

Benefits of a Mattress Topper

Mattress toppers change a mattress’s firmness considerably. You can use a thick model to add extra cushioning to a very firm bed, or you can use it to make a soft mattress feel firm. If you have an old mattress, it can help improve slight indentations and sagging. It can also help to increase your mattress’s overall height.  

Types of Mattress Toppers

Mattress toppers are also available in various materials and styles. Some toppers help optimize pressure relief, while others isolate motion and keep sleepers cool. Here are some of the common types of mattress toppers: 

Memory Foam

A memory foam mattress topper provides a deep level of pressure relief. The memory foam takes the body’s shape and reduces tension, making it an excellent choice for side sleepers and lightweight people. Memory foam toppers can reduce sleep disturbances due to movement when more than one person uses the bed because of their ability to isolate motion well.

Latex Toppers 

Latex toppers offer considerable pressure relief while providing adequate bounce to facilitate movement. They can be used to add firmness to beds and help people who get hot when they sleep because of their breathable material. 

Wool Toppers

Wool toppers are not very common but are known for their breathability and softness. They are ideal for both warm and cold seasons as they regulate temperature. 

Feather Toppers

Feather toppers are extremely soft and fluffy. They provide a wide range of support. Some types of feather toppers layer more than one kind of feature to strike a balance between loft and plushness. Feather toppers can regulate temperature well and can be used in any season. 

Do You Need a Mattress Pad or a Mattress Topper?

Mattress pads and mattress toppers may have similar functions but are different from each other. Mattress pads will help you keep your bed dry and clean while making it a little more comfortable. They can soften or reinforce the bed’s surface.  

Mattress toppers may be a better choice for individuals who want to change the feel of their beds significantly. Since toppers are thicker than pads, they can make any mattress softer or firmer. These toppers can also aid cooler sleeping conditions if made from breathable materials. Toppers can also help improve a mattress’s lifespan by controlling premature sagging and impressions. They help reduce pains and aches by cushioning key pressure points in the body.  

The answer to your Mattress pad vs mattress topper question will solely depend on what you require. If you want to change the feel of your bed drastically and make it more comfortable, then you should buy a mattress topper. But if you are looking for something to offer protection and mildly alter the way your bed feels, then you may purchase a mattress pad. Visit Sleep Essentials where you are guaranteed that no matter your choice, you get top-quality products.

Where to Buy Mattress Topper?

Sleep Essentials offers a wide range of mattress toppers for you to choose from. We have toppers to increase both the softness and firmness of your mattress. Made from comfortable and breathable materials, our mattress toppers help you enjoy a restful sleep. Visit https://sleepessentials.com/ for more info.

Sleep Essentials, 

3542 Orange Ave NE Roanoke Virginia 24012, 

(540) 397-2337

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