Mattress pad vs mattress topper – what's the difference and which do you need?

To the untrained ear, a mattress pad and a mattress topper sound like the same sort of thing. Both are designed to sit on top of the mattress for 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 want 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 vs mattress toppers early on. I bought my first topper when I went off to college and encountered the world's most uncomfortable innerspring. I've carried that topper across campus, into my first apartment, and out on camping trips to get better sleep, wherever I go. I like to protect my mattress topper with a mattress pad to guard against sweat, spills, and stains.

As H&G's resident Sleep Editor, I lead a team of expert testers in the search to find the best mattress toppers, as well as mattress pads. Together, we've tested everything from plush pillow tops to firm 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 pads vs mattress toppers − your expert guide

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 vs 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 new bed.

There are lots of different mattress topper types to meet every conceivable sleep need. 'Mattress toppers might be made from memory foam for motion isolation or latex breathability and bounce or filled with down or polyester for a plush finish,' 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. Unlike a mattress topper, a mattress pad is not thick enough to modify the look or feel of your mattress, but it could slightly adjust the firmness.

'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 – 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 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 feature 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 can regulate your temperature overnight.

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.

Mattress toppers − 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 decide. 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 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 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, then hold back to save up for a new mattress later down the line.

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'll 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.

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.