When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Products or services may be offered by an affiliated entity. Learn more.
Key Takeaways
- A mattress pad is a thin layer of fabric that goes between your mattress and fitted sheet, protecting your mattress from dust, allergens, sweat, and stains.
- Mattress pads can provide some softness and cushioning, but they’re not as thick as a mattress topper.
- There’s a wide variety of mattress pads on the market, so the right mattress pad for you depends on your needs.
A mattress pad is an easy way to protect your mattress so it’ll last longer, but with so many options available, it can be hard to know where to start. Our team of product experts inspected dozens of mattress pads in our Test Lab to pick out the best of the best.
Whether you’re looking for a mattress pad with extra softness or waterproofing, we’ve narrowed down the options to save you time and provide you with data-backed recommendations. We’ll walk you through our picks for the best mattress pads of 2024 and help you understand everything you need to know to find the perfect mattress pad for your needs.
Our Top Picks
-
Best Overall – Saatva Organic Mattress Pad
View Details
-
Best Value – The Company Store Company Cotton Mattress Pad
View Details
-
Most Comfortable – Birch Organic Mattress Pad
View Details
-
Best Luxury – Cozy Earth Bamboo Mattress Pad
View Details
-
Best Temperature Regulating – Slumber Cloud Performance Mattress Pad
View Details
-
Softest – Buffy Plushy Mattress Protector
View Details
-
Best Cooling – Puffy Deluxe Mattress Pad
View Details
-
Best Moisture-Wicking – Viscosoft Copper Pillow Top Mattress Pad
View Details
-
Best Deep Pocket – Parachute Down Alternative Mattress Pad
View Details
-
Best for Kids – Naturepedic Organic Waterproof Mattress Pad
View Details
Swipe for more
Best Overall
Saatva Organic Mattress Pad
9.0 /10
Test Lab Score
Shop at Saatva
Shop at Saatva
The Saatva Organic Mattress Pad adds a touch of softness to your bed surface without going overboard on plushness. Our favorite part of the pad’s design is the soft cotton, which is breathable and also GOTS-certified organic.
Price
$265
Full Details
The Saatva Organic Mattress Pad is our top pick for customers who want a mattress pad made with natural, chemical-free organic cotton.
The top of this pad is made with 100% cotton that has been certified to be organic by the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS). GOTS certification requires compliance with strict standards for organic production as well as the fair treatment of workers. For shoppers who want the health benefits of a natural material combined with the environmental and social benefits of sustainable production, the Saatva Organic Mattress Pad is a compelling option.
The cotton in this mattress pad has a thread count of 300, making it soft, smooth, and able to add a welcoming feel to your mattress. At the same time, it is durable and can effectively wick moisture to help you maintain a stable body temperature. The mattress pad has deep side panels that are 4% spandex to give them extra stretch to fit mattresses up to 16 inches deep.
The Saatva Organic Mattress Pad comes with free standard shipping. The Saatva Company has a strong reputation in the mattress and bedding industry for its product quality and customer service. They back this mattress pad with a 45-day trial during which you can return it for a full refund if you aren’t satisfied.
Best Value
The Company Store Company Cotton Mattress Pad
8.5 /10
Test Lab Score
Shop at The Company Store
Shop at The Company Store
The Company Store Cotton Mattress Pad is plush and soft — and best of all it costs a fraction of the price of some competing pads. You can also choose between two pocket depths, which is a great option for owners of beds with very low or very high profiles.
Price
$111
Full Details
High-quality mattress pads in today’s market can run somewhat expensive, but The Company Store offers a handful of selections with approachable sticker prices for budget-conscious shoppers. The Company Cotton Mattress Pad is one of the brand’s most affordable options. Composed of a cotton shell and plush fiber fill, the pad makes your sleep surface feel noticeably softer and also feels cool to the touch. A generous pocket depth also ensures compatibility with any mattress.
A quilted cotton top panel distributes the fill evenly and also cuts down on the noise that can occur with padded mattress pads — bothersome crinkling shouldn’t be an issue for light sleepers. The side panels are made of stretchy cotton jersey to stabilize the pad and prevent it from slipping off the corners of your mattress. You can choose from two pocket depths. The 11-inch model works with mattresses up to 12 inches thick, while the 18-inch pad can be used with any mattress up to 20 inches thick.
You can choose from six sizes that correspond with standard mattress dimensions. To clean the pad, simply machine-wash in cold water on a gentle cycle with like colors and tumble dry on low heat. The Company Store offers free ground shipping within the contiguous U.S. You may test out the pad and return it within 30 days for a refund, provided it hasn’t been damaged during the trial period.
Most Comfortable
Birch Organic Mattress Pad
8.7 /10
Test Lab Score
Shop at Birch
Shop at Birch
The Birch Organic Mattress Pad is composed almost entirely of cotton, which is known for its natural breathability and moisture-wicking properties. This makes the pad a great pick for sleepers who routinely sweat or overheat at night.
Price
$199
Full Details
Many mattress pads trap and store heat, and this can lead to uncomfortable warmth in bed and a higher potential for night sweats. The Birch Organic Mattress Pad is mostly composed of breathable organic cotton, an absorbent material that can wick away moisture to keep you dry and comfortable. A small amount of Lycra spandex is used to make the fabric stretchy enough to cover your mattress. The thick, dual-sided elastic band provides additional security to prevent shifting when you change sleep positions or toss and turn.
A pocket depth of 16 inches makes the pad compatible with most mattresses sold today. We recommend measuring your mattress beforehand to ensure a proper fit. The pad is completely machine-washable, and the cotton fabrication should hold up well with repeated washes compared to synthetic textiles like polyester. A certification from the Global Organic Textile Standard also indicates the cotton has been sustainably grown, cultivated, and processed.
Although the sticker price is a bit above-average, Birch offers free ground shipping to customers in all 50 states. You’ll receive a generous 100-night sleep trial with your purchase. Comparatively, many online brands do not offer any sort of trial period for mattress pads. A 1-year manufacturer’s warranty further backs your purchase.
Best Luxury
Cozy Earth Bamboo Mattress Pad
8.6 /10
Test Lab Score
Shop at Cozy Earth
Shop at Cozy Earth
The Cozy Earth Bamboo Mattress Pad has a luxurious feel that we credit to the bamboo-derived materials. On top of feeling silky smooth, it also has natural cooling properties that keep heat retention at bay.
Price
$229
Full Details
In recent years, bedding products made from bamboo-derived materials have become popular among hot sleepers and those who reside in warmer climates. This can be attributed to bamboo’s natural breathability. The Cozy Earth Bamboo Mattress Pad is composed entirely of bamboo-based components. The cover is made of silky-soft viscose derived from bamboo, while the fill consists of bamboo-derived fibers that create a plush feel.
The Bamboo Mattress Pad has a fairly thin profile, so it won’t drastically change the feel of your sleep surface, but the pad excels at temperature regulation. The elasticated corners are designed to fit mattresses up to 20 inches thick, a range that includes the vast majority of beds sold today.
Caring for the pad is convenient and straightforward. You can wash and dry it in any household machine, provided you don’t wash it on a spin cycle or use bleach or fabric softener. Cozy Earth recommends hanging the pad in sunlight two to three times per year to refresh the bamboo fibers.
Cozy Earth offers free shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. Each customer receives a sleep trial that allows them to test out the Bamboo Mattress Pad for up to 100 nights before deciding whether to keep it or return it.
Best Temperature Regulating
Slumber Cloud Performance Mattress Pad
8.4 /10
Test Lab Score
Shop at Slumber Cloud
Shop at Slumber Cloud
If you’re looking for a mattress pad that can better manage heat retention on your bed surface, the Slumber Cloud Performance Mattress Pad is a solid pick. It’s made with a proprietary Tencel fabric that wicks moisture and is engineered to regulate temperature — both ideal features for a hot sleeper.
Price
$209
Full Details
Slumber Cloud offers an extensive line of pads and protectors made of Outlast, a proprietary material derived from moisture-wicking Tencel fabric. Outlast is engineered to capture and dissipate body heat, leaving your mattress cool and comfortable regardless of how hot you feel. One of the latest Slumber Cloud products to integrate this technology is the Performance Mattress Pad, which also features a down alternative fiber fill to create some added plushness for your sleep surface.
Outlast fabric is also exceptionally soft and smooth, so it shouldn’t cause irritation if you have sensitive skin. The pad is fully machine-washable for quick, convenient cleaning and care. The elastic corners offer a pocket depth of up to 20 inches, making the pad compatible with virtually any mattress made today including pillow-top hybrids and other high-profile models that are too tall for pads with standard pockets. The pad is designed to be tucked beneath your fitted sheet.
The Performance Mattress Pad is available in six sizes that correspond with standard mattress dimensions, as well as a split king for couples who use adjustable beds. The latter consists of two twin XL pads shipped together. Slumber Cloud offers free shipping to U.S. customers and reasonable flat rates for Canadian orders. Each purchase is backed by a 60-night trial period and a manufacturer’s warranty that covers structural defects for 180 days.
Softest
Buffy Plushy Mattress Protector
8.6 /10
Test Lab Score
Shop Now
Shop Now
The Buffy Plushy Mattress Protector is exceptionally soft, from the smooth Tencel shell to the gentle padding of the fiber fill. A generous pocket depth means you can use this on the thickest of beds, even high-profile pillow-tops.
Price
$129
Full Details
Buffy’s Plushy Mattress Protector pairs downy-soft PET fiber fill with a smooth, breathable Tencel shell. The result is a design that elevates the comfort of your sleep surface more than the average mattress pad. A wide-ranging pocket depth, corner straps for extra stability, and eco-friendly materials add to the Plushy’s appeal, but the price-point is still accessible and Buffy’s generous return policy helps ensure you’re satisfied with your purchase.
A sateen weave heightens the Tencel fabric’s silky-soft hand-feel, creating a gentle glide and no irritation for people with sensitive skin. The protector is also a good choice for people who are allergic to real down, as the PET fibers are hypoallergenic and do not use any animal-based materials. Roughly 16 plastic bottles are used to produce the fill, which holds certification with the Global Recycle Standard.
The elasticated corners are compatible with any mattress measuring 8 to 21 inches thick. This versatile pocket depth ensures you can use the Plushy with any major mattress sold today. Each corner is equipped with thick bands to further secure the protector to your mattress. Six sizes are available, all of which correspond to standard mattress dimensions. The protector is not machine-washable and should only be dry cleaned — this may factor into your buying decision.
Buffy offers free ground shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. The company allows you to sleep on the Plushy Mattress Protector for up to one week before your credit card is charged. After the seventh night, you may still return the pad within 50 nights of the original order date and receive a full refund.
Best Cooling
Puffy Deluxe Mattress Pad
8.8 /10
Test Lab Score
Shop at Puffy
Shop at Puffy
The Puffy Deluxe Mattress Pad checks a lot of boxes when it comes to comfort. It’s filled with down alternative that produces a cloud–like feel, and the bamboo-derived shell is breathable for sleepers who overheat easily.
Price
$229
Full Details
An all-season mattress pad can be a great investment for people who tend to sleep hot or sweat in their sleep, as well as those who reside in exceptionally warm or humid places. The Puffy Deluxe Mattress Pad is constructed with a shell made of viscose derived from bamboo, a highly breathable material that also wicks away moisture from the body. Its fill is composed of down alternative clusters that mimic the natural plushness of real down without retaining heat. At the same time, the fill provides decent insulation, so you shouldn’t feel too cold during chillier times of the year.
A quilted jacquard surface accentuates the plush feel. Above-average cushioning makes the pad suitable for anyone whose current mattress is too firm or stiff. The pad has elasticated corners that can be secured to any mattress measuring up to 15 inches thick – a range that covers most models sold today. The fully machine-washable design makes the pad easy to keep clean.
You can choose from six sizes that correspond to standard mattress dimensions. Puffy offers free ground shipping throughout all 50 states, and each purchase is backed by a sleep trial that runs for 101 nights. Those who keep their Puffy Deluxe Mattress Pad also receive a lifetime warranty against structural and material defects.
Best Moisture-Wicking
Viscosoft Copper Pillow Top Mattress Pad
8.5 /10
Test Lab Score
Shop at Viscosoft
Shop at Viscosoft
Some mattress pads sacrifice temperature neutrality for plushness, but not the ViscoSoft Copper Pillow Top Mattress Pad. This well-cushioned pad creates a cloud-like feel on your bed surface, but the shell is composed of a moisture-wicking material infused with copper intended to maintain coolness.
Price
$225
Full Details
The ideal mattress pad will provide a noticeable comfort adjustment and help protect your sleep surface from undesirable elements. The ViscoSoft Copper Pillow Top Mattress Pad checks both of these boxes, and an approachable sticker price makes it a great deal for shoppers on a budget.
The shell is composed of moisture-wicking fabric infused with copper fibers for added cooling. Copper is also naturally antimicrobial to keep harmful bacteria out of your bed and manage unwanted odors that build up over time. The quilted pillow top contains plush fiber fill that adjusts the feel of your mattress without making it feel too soft (as a topper might do).
The elasticated corners reach a pocket depth of 18 inches, so the pad can be used with nearly every mattress sold today including most high-profile models. You can launder the pad in your household machines, so you won’t have to spend time hand washing the fabric or spend extra to have it dry cleaned. The pad is available in six different sizes that correspond with standard mattress dimensions.
An affordable price-point and strong performance make this pad a high-value sleep accessory. All orders qualify for free ground delivery. Your purchase is backed by a sleep trial that lasts 60 nights and a 5-year warranty against structural defects.
Best Deep Pocket
Parachute Down Alternative Mattress Pad
8.4 /10
Test Lab Score
Shop Now
Shop Now
The Parachute Down Alternative Mattress Pad is a good fit for sleepers who want to drastically adjust the feel of their mattress. Cushioned with down alternative clusters, the pad feels exceptionally plush — and the 18-inch pocket depth is compatible with most beds on the market.
Price
$149
Full Details
Most mattress pads provide minimal padding, especially compared to toppers, but the Parachute Down Alternative Mattress Pad is a notable exception. The fill consists of microfiber clusters engineered to mimic the lightness and softness of real down without relying on animal-based materials, retaining heat, or triggering allergy symptoms. A relatively thick profile adds substantial cushioning to your mattress.
A shell made of smooth cambric cotton encases the fill and adds to the breathable design. Double-stitch baffle boxes evenly distribute the fill and help maintain a full shape. The perimeter is elasticated for a secure fit. With a pocket depth of 18 inches, the pad is compatible with the vast majority of mattresses sold today. The pad is fully machine-washable, though you can opt for dry cleaning if this method is more convenient. Six sizes are available for the pad, all of which correspond to standard mattress dimensions.
The Down Alternative Mattress Pad is competitively priced and Parachute offers free ground shipping to all 50 states. The company takes measures to ensure carbon-neutral shipping foreach order. If you are not satisfied with your purchase, you may return the pad within 60 days.
Best for Kids
Naturepedic Organic Waterproof Mattress Pad
8.5 /10
Test Lab Score
Shop at Naturepedic
Shop at Naturepedic
The Naturepedic Organic Waterproof Mattress Pad is made with breathable cotton and has a waterproof design — a must-have feature for kid mattress pads. The cotton is also GOTS-certified organic, which should give eco-minded parents some peace of mind.
Price
$159
Full Details
A waterproof mattress pad is essential if your child wets the bed. This protective pad from Naturepedic features a three-layer design consisting of a natural waterproof membrane encased in organic cotton. The naturally breathable cotton promotes airflow and the membrane is engineered to repel liquids while dissipating water vapor, so kids shouldn’t experience the uncomfortable heat retention that often occurs with waterproof pads.
While not a full encasement, the pad has an elasticated border to ensure a sure fit on most mattresses. Twin, twin XL, full, and queen sizes are available. The pad is fully machine-washable, allowing you to clean as needed. Some shrinkage may occur after the first laundry cycle, but each pad is slightly oversize to compensate for this. Eco-conscious parents should also find the pad appealing since both the top and bottom cotton layers have earned GOTS organic certification, ensuring sustainable growth and sourcing.
Affordable pricing and free delivery throughout the contiguous U.S. and provincial Canada make the pad a great option for shoppers with limited budgets. Naturepedic Organic Waterproof Pad comes with a 30-night trial period that includes free shipping for returns. This product is also backed by a 1-year warranty against structural and material defects.
Best Overall
Saatva Organic Mattress Pad
9.0 /10
Test Lab Score
Shop at Saatva
A breathable, GOTS-certified mattress pad that provides a touch of softness without going overboard.
See More Details
Best Value
The Company Store Company Cotton Mattress Pad
8.5 /10
Test Lab Score
Shop at The Company Store
A plush and affordable mattress pad that comes in two different pocket depths.
See More Details
Most Comfortable
Birch Organic Mattress Pad
8.7 /10
Test Lab Score
Shop at Birch
Naturally breathable and moisture-wicking, this cotton mattress pad is a comfortable pick made with eco-friendly materials.
See More Details
Best Luxury
Cozy Earth Bamboo Mattress Pad
8.6 /10
Test Lab Score
Shop at Cozy Earth
Bamboo-derived materials give this mattress pad a silky smooth, naturally cool feel.
See More Details
Best Temperature Regulating
Slumber Cloud Performance Mattress Pad
8.4 /10
Test Lab Score
Shop at Slumber Cloud
A mattress pad made with a proprietary Tencel fabric that’s engineered to regulate temperature and provide a cooler night’s sleep.
See More Details
Softest
Buffy Plushy Mattress Protector
8.6 /10
Test Lab Score
Shop at Buffy
A smooth Tencel mattress pad filled with a soft, eco-friendly fiber fill.
See More Details
Best Cooling
Puffy Deluxe Mattress Pad
8.8 /10
Test Lab Score
Shop at Puffy
A breathable bamboo-derived mattress pad that stays cool and provides a touch of softness.
See More Details
Best Moisture-Wicking
Viscosoft Copper Pillow Top Mattress Pad
8.5 /10
Test Lab Score
Shop at Viscosoft
A moisture-wicking mattress pad infused with copper that helps draw sweat away from the body to keep you sleeping comfortably.
See More Details
Best Deep Pocket
Parachute Down Alternative Mattress Pad
8.4 /10
Test Lab Score
Shop at Parachute
A plush, cushy mattress pad that is designed to fit even the thickest of beds.
See More Details
Best for Kids
Naturepedic Organic Waterproof Mattress Pad
8.5 /10
Test Lab Score
Shop at Naturepedic
Breathable, GOTS-certified organic cotton and a waterproof design make this a great mattress pad for children.
See More Details
How We Test: Rigor, Data, and Sleeper Feedback
Our team has years of experience evaluating bedding, and we select our top product picks after in-house testing. When examining mattress pads, we carefully assess how they feel, how much protection they provide for a mattress, and how well they regulate temperature. Our team includes a variety of different sleepers, so we can get a clear picture of how the bedding will perform for a broad range of people.
Construction analysis: We begin our tests by taking a close look at mattress pad construction with attention to materials and special features. Analyzing construction helps us gauge performance factors such as temperature control, durability, and overall quality.
Product testing: For the hands-on portion of our product testing, we take turns lying on a mattress with the mattress pad in place. This allows us to evaluate how securely the mattress pad stays in place, whether the bedding sleeps cool or retains heat, and how the pad feels. We also do a bit of stress testing to see how well the pad protects against accidents.
Field testing: Our field testers evaluate different mattress pads and other sleep products in their own bedrooms. They test each pad for several weeks, making daily notes on how the bedding performs in the long term.
User testing: We consult customer surveys and third-party reviews to get an idea of how popular each mattress pad is with shoppers and owners. This feedback lets us know if our ratings match the opinions of everyday people.
What Is a Mattress Pad?
A mattress pad is a thin layer of fabric that goes between your mattress and fitted sheet. Many mattress pads wrap around the bed on all corners with elastic.
They serve two main purposes:
- Added comfort: Most mattress pads add a bit of softness, and some are extra cushy. They can also help you sleep more comfortably by regulating temperature (helping you sleep cooler or warmer).
- Mattress protection: Mattress pads act as a barrier against dust, allergens, sweat, and stains. Some mattress pads even have a waterproof layer to help protect your bed from spills and accidents. They won’t keep everything out, but they’ll protect your bed from a lot of issues.
Mattress Pads vs. Mattress Toppers vs. Mattress Protectors
In contrast, a mattress topper is thicker and designed to adjust the feel of the mattress. Mattress pads give you a little cushion, but mattress toppers provide inches of foam, latex, or down to lay on.
A mattress encasement (or mattress protector) wraps all the way around your mattress and is sealed with a zipper. Mattress protectors are the heavy duty cousin of a mattress pad, and they’re almost always waterproof.
How to Choose the Best Mattress Pad for Your Needs
When shopping for a mattress pad, it’s best to focus on your specific needs. If you’re worried about spills or accidents, you’ll want a mattress pad with waterproofing. If you sleep hot at night, you’ll want to look for breathability and cooling materials. The right mattress pad can make a serious difference in your sleep quality and the lifespan of your mattress.
Different mattress pads are designed to solve different problems, and that can make it hard to do easy apples-to-apples comparisons. We’ve provided a full breakdown of key factors you should consider while shopping. Read through to find the ones that apply to you, so you know what your perfect mattress pad looks like.
Price
Most shoppers are going to care about price, but it’s hard to know what to expect to pay for a mattress pad. The most basic, budget-friendly mattress pads can cost around $20, while high-end models can cost you $300 or more. If you’re looking for a mattress pad with special features or materials, you can expect to pay more for it.
Setting your price range before you start shopping can help you narrow down your options and keep you from wasting time looking at options outside of your budget.
Waterproofing
If you’re worried about liquid spills, bedwetting, or pet accidents, then a waterproof mattress pad is right up your alley. If you want maximum protection, then a waterproof mattress encasement is your best option. If you rarely have food or drinks near your bed and just want a bit of protection, a water-resistant mattress pad is probably enough for you.
To make sure a mattress pad is actually waterproof, look for details about the actual layer that creates the barrier against liquids. These waterproof layers are usually made with vinyl or polyurethane.
Quality Materials
The materials used in a mattress pad directly affect its durability, comfort, and performance. Generally speaking, if you’re looking for a nicer product or a special feature, you’re going to end up paying for it.
Durable and dependable mattress pads are made of high-quality materials and tend to have better reviews. You should also consider whether you want natural, organic, or eco-friendly materials such as organic cotton over synthetics like polyester.
Cooling Properties
If you tend to sleep hot or you live in a warm climate, you’ll want to go for a cooling mattress pad. Most cooling mattress pads are made with breathable fabrics that pull moisture away from your body so it can evaporate. Some pads are made with specialized phase change materials (PCM) that are designed to help regulate temperature. There are also a few active cooling pads that use tubes of water to directly control the temperature of your bed.
Remember that sleeping temperature is about more than just your mattress pad – your mattress, sheets, and blankets all play a role. If you need to sleep cooler at night, you’ll want to make sure every part of your bed is set up for cooling.
“As a hot sleeper, mattress pads have saved my mattress from sweat too many times to count. Breathability in a mattress pad is very important for me, so I always use a cotton mattress pad with breathable sheets.”
Daniel Noyed
Senior Product Editor
Thickness, Firmness, and Pressure Relief
Thicker mattress pads like pillow-top styles add more cushion to your bed, changing the feel of your mattress. A thicker pad can add some cushioning to your bed and make it feel softer. This added cushioning can help reduce pressure on areas like your shoulders, hips, and lower back.
If your bed is already comfortably soft, or you don’t want to change how your bed feels, then avoid thick mattress pads. Also if you’re just looking for protection or waterproofing, a thinner pad is a better fit.
Fit and Pocket Depth
Many mattress pads are built with plenty of stretch, so most people don’t have to worry about a mattress pad fitting on their bed as long as they buy the right size. Double-check reviews just to make sure people aren’t complaining about the mattress pad running small, but otherwise don’t worry too much about it.
If you have a thicker than average mattress (13+ inches thick), be sure to check the dimensions and pocket depth of your mattress pad before you buy to make sure it will fit comfortably.
Ease of Cleaning
Most people want a mattress pad that’s easy to clean and maintain, especially if you’re worried about spills, stains, children, or pets. The majority of mattress pads are machine-washable and machine-driable, but there are some exceptions. Check the manufacturer’s instructions ahead of time to make sure a pad is easy to care for.
Noise
Some mattress pads can be crinkly and noisy when you lay on them, especially ones with plastic-like waterproof layers. If you’re sensitive to sounds at night, you’ll want to look for a smoother, thinner pad made of a quiet material like cotton.
Which Type of Mattress Pad Should I Choose?
Mattress pads come in a variety of materials, each with their own unique pros and cons. We’ve put together a quick breakdown of what you should know about the positives and negatives of each type of mattress pad.
Mattress Pad Type | What You Should Know |
---|---|
Cotton | Cotton is one of the most popular choices for mattress pads. Its performance is impressive, providing softness and moisture-wicking with virtually no noise. Most cotton is durable and can be safely machine-washed and dried. Some types of cotton mattress pads are available at a low cost, but higher-end and organic cotton mattress pads are more expensive. |
Polyester | Polyester is another of the most common materials used in mattress pads. Polyester can be thin and soft, like in athletic clothing, or brushed microfiber, which has a plush feel. Polyester can wick moisture, but it’s not as breathable as other materials. Polyester mattress pads are often the least expensive and easy to clean, but they don’t last as long as other types of mattress pads. |
Down | Down feathers are found in many bedding products, including mattress pads. Down’s light and soft feel makes it especially popular in thicker mattress pads that provide a plush sleeping surface. The negatives to down are its high price point, its potential for causing allergies in some people, and it flattens if it gets wet. |
Rayon | Rayon is a fabric derived from natural fibers, including different types of wood pulp. Rayon is pretty similar to cotton in terms of its smoothness and breathability, but it may not be quite as soft to the touch. Rayon mattress pads are less common and tend to be pricier than polyester, but they still come in a good range of prices. |
Wool | Wool is found in some mattress pads and is well-known for its breathability and natural temperature regulation that allows it to be comfortable in both winter and summer. Wool is soft and can feel plush, but it’s usually expensive. Wool is also pretty rare in mattress pads, so there aren’t as many options available. |
Waterproof | With virtually any of these materials, a waterproofing layer can be added to keep liquids from seeping into a mattress. The most common form of waterproofing is a lining or backing made of vinyl or thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). |
What Are the Benefits of a Mattress Pad?
Mattress pads meet a variety of needs, so it’s not surprising that using one comes with a variety of benefits. Here’s a quick breakdown of the top benefits of using a mattress pad:
- Mattress protection: A mattress pad acts as a barrier, helping to protect your bed from stains, spills, dust, and accidents. Waterproof pads go the extra mile to protect your bed against liquids, but even a regular mattress pad can stop some mess from reaching your mattress. Mattress pads can help your mattress last longer, especially if you’re worried about accidents.
- Allergen defence: A mattress pad can help protect your mattress from allergens and dust mites. If you want the strongest allergen prevention you can get, use a mattress encasement instead.
- Added comfort: The feel of a mattress pad can make your mattress softer and more comfortable, especially if you use a thicker model made with down or wool. Cooling mattress pads can help hot sleepers rest easier without overheating.
- Easy to clean: Trying to spot-clean a mattress without damaging it can be a pain, which is why people use mattress pads instead. Most mattress pads are easy to wash and dry, so accidents are much more manageable when you use a mattress pad.
- Cost-effective: Compared to mattress toppers and mattress encasements, mattress pads are much more budget-friendly. Mattress pads won’t completely change the feel of your bed or provide extreme mattress protection, but they’re a good, well-rounded option that meets the needs of most people.
Dive Deeper – In-Depth Mattress Pad Guides
For more information on different mattress pads for specific needs, check out the guides below.
Mattress Pad Guides
- Best Cooling Mattress Pads
- Best Heated Mattress Pads
- Sleepme Cube Sleep System Review
- Sleepme Dock Pro Sleep System
- Eight Sleep Pod Cover Review
Frequently Asked Questions About Mattress Pads
If you’re still wondering about whether a mattress pad is right for your bed, we’ve put together answers to some frequently asked questions to address your remaining doubts.
How Does a Mattress Pad Attach to the Bed?
Almost all mattress pads use elastic to connect to the bed and stay in place.
The most common way that this elastic is deployed is by sewing it into the perimeter of the pad. A skirt or side panel goes over the sides of the mattress, and the skirt has elastic placed either in the corners only or in a continuous band that goes around the full hem. In this way, these mattress pads resemble a fitted sheet.
In some cases, a mattress pad does not have a skirt or side panels and uses elastic straps in each corner to go under the mattress and hold the pad in place. Pads with straps are prone to shifting around and often need to be reattached.
Can Mattress Pads Adjust the Firmness of My Bed?
Most mattress pads provide a touch of softness to a bed, but don’t change the feel too much. Some thicker pads made with materials like down feathers can make a bed feel even softer.
If your goal is to dramatically change the feel of your bed, then you’re better off buying a mattress topper instead of a mattress pad.
How Do I Clean My Mattress Pad?
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to clean any specific mattress pad – they know their product best.
Generally speaking, most mattress pads can be machine-washed and machine-dried on gentle or low-heat settings, but the best washer and dryer settings can vary depending on the pad’s materials. Some pads also can’t be cleaned in a washer or dryer, so double-check the manufacturer’s instructions.
What’s the Difference Between a Mattress Pad and a Mattress Topper or Mattress Protector?
A mattress pad is thinner and designed to provide a bit of comfort and protection for your mattress. Mattress toppers are thicker and meant to change the feel of a bed when you lay on it. Mattress protectors (or mattress encasements) surround a mattress on all sides and are meant for heavy duty protection.
Each of these products serves a different core need. If your focus is maximum protection against spills and allergens, you’ll want a mattress encasement. If your focus is on maximum change to the feel of the mattress, a mattress topper is best. If you want something that falls in between, defending the mattress while lightly changing its feel, then a mattress pad is a good middle ground.
Still have questions? Ask our community!
Join our Sleep Care Community — a trusted hub of product specialists, sleep health professionals, and people just like you. Whether you’re searching for the perfect mattress or need expert sleep advice, we’ve got you covered. Get personalized guidance from the experts who know sleep best.