Written by Riley Otis, Editorial Intern
Before you start hunting for a mattress pad, it’s important to get clear on what this product actually is. Many people purchase a mattress pad expecting it to be like a mattress topper, and then they wind up dissatisfied. The primary purpose of a mattress pad is to add a bit of comfort to an old or uncomfortable mattress, but it’s important to note that pads won’t be nearly as thick or cushy as most mattress toppers.
Mattress pads can also add a layer of protection for your mattress because they lie on top of the mattress and beneath your sheets (but they won’t always be waterproof like a plastic mattress protector). Make sure that a mattress pad is really what you’re after before you start shopping. Then, use this list of best mattress pads to zero in on some quality options.
Our Top Pick For Mattress Pads
We chose the Saatva Organic Mattress Pad because it offers a combination of comfort and protection that most sleepers can appreciate. We love that its Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certified and made in Fair Trade certified factories.
Best Mattress Pads
- Editor’s Pick: Saatva Organic Mattress Pad
- Best Cooling Mattress Pad: Cozy Earth Bamboo Mattress Pad
- Best Protective Mattress Pad: Sleep Number Total Protection Mattress Pad
- Best Heated Mattress Pad: Sunbeam Heated Mattress Pad
- Best Organic Mattress Pad: Birch Organic Mattress Pad
Best Mattress Pads Video
Editor’s Pick – Saatva Organic Mattress Pad
Made from organic cotton and featuring an extra-thick elastic band, the Saatva Organic mattress pad is a high-quality product.
Saatva Organic Mattress Pad
Expert Opinion
The high-quality Saatva Organic Mattress Pad is our all-time favorite because it checks just about every box in the book. This mattress pad is made from 100 percent certified organic cotton and features an extra-wide elastic band to ensure it stays secure. In addition, this mattress pad has a skirt that can fit a mattress up to 16 inches tall.
Like most mattress pads, the Saatva Organic mattress pad offers protection for your bed plus an additional comfort layer. It also is both Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certified and made in Fair Trade certified factories. An added perk is it’s machine washable.
What our tester says: “I love how soft and breathable the Saatva Organic mattress pad feels, but my favorite feature is definitely the elastic band. That thing is heavy duty and definitely keeps the mattress pad in place.” — Amelia Jerden, senior staff writer
Who the Saatva Organic is Best for
- Hot sleepers: Made with breathable organic cotton, this mattress pad is designed to keep you cool.
- Eco-conscious shoppers: The organic cotton used in this mattress pad is GOTS certified and made in Fair Trade certified factories. If you’re searching for an organic, ethically-made mattress pad, this is a great option.
- People seeking an easy clean: The Saatva Organic mattress pad is machine washable, so cleaning it is easy.
Who Should Avoid the Saatva Organic
- People with extra-tall mattresses: This mattress pad can fit a mattress up to 16 inches high. If you have a mattress taller than that, it likely won’t fit or won’t stay in place.
For even more Saatva bedding, check out our Saatva Latex pillow review or our Saatva Linen sheets review.
Best Cooling Mattress Pad – Cozy Earth Bamboo Mattress Pad
The Cozy Earth Bamboo mattress pad is a cooling, moisture-wicking mattress pad that will keep your mattress clean and protected. This mattress pad is made with 100 percent bamboo viscose, which is cooling and also OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100 Certified.
Cozy Earth Bamboo Mattress Pad
Sleepopolis Score
4.90 / 5
Expert Opinion
Some people naturally tend to run hot at night. If that sounds like you, consider bamboo as a material when shopping for bedding. Cozy Earth specializes in all things bamboo, so naturally their mattress pad is made from bamboo, too. Bamboo viscose is a semi-synthetic fabric made from bamboo pulp. Its moisture-wicking and temperature-regulating properties make it an all-around winner for hot sleepers. It’s also super soft to the touch, providing a comfortable and silky feel.
What our tester says: “Lying on this mattress pad, I felt the cooling effect of the bamboo viscose. Plus, it’s not a super thick topper, which helps with preventing heat buildup.” — Amelia Jerden, senior staff writer
Who the Cozy Earth Bamboo Mattress Pad is Best for
- People with tall beds: This mattress pad can fit on a mattress up to 20 inches tall. This is good news for anyone with a high-profile bed or a mattress topper.
- People with allergies: Bamboo is a hypoallergenic material, which could benefit people who struggle with allergies.
- People seeking durability: This mattress pad is made from an enhanced weave that prevents tears and pilling.
Who Should Avoid the Cozy Earth Bamboo Mattress Pad
- Budget shoppers: This mattress pad is on the pricier side, so it may be out of range for people looking to save money.
Want to complete your Cozy Earth set-up? Check out our reviews of the Cozy Earth Bamboo sheets or Cozy Earth Bamboo pajamas.
Best Protective Mattress Pad – Sleep Number Total Protection Mattress Pad
The Total Protection mattress pad from Sleep Number provides waterproof protection for your bed, along with a cool-to-the-touch feel.
Sleep Number Total Protection Mattress Pad
Expert Opinion
One of the main functions of a mattress pad is the protection it provides for your mattress — along with adding an additional layer of plush comfort. If protecting your mattress is your primary concern, the Total Protection mattress pad from Sleep Number could be a good choice. Its waterproof design protects against spills and stains across every inch of the mattress, not just the top. It’s also antimicrobial and hypoallergenic, which could benefit those with allergies. This mattress pad also has a cool-to-the-touch feel — an added bonus for hot sleepers.
What our tester says: “I was seriously impressed with this mattress pad’s waterproof properties. I poured a glass of water onto this pad and it didn’t soak through onto the mattress at all.” — Amelia Jerden, senior staff writer
Who the Total Protection Mattress Pad is Best for
- Those with allergies: The hypoallergenic and antimicrobial properties of this mattress pad make it a good choice for people who struggle with allergies or are concerned about their mattress pad being sanitary.
- Hot sleepers: This mattress pad is cool to the touch, which could benefit hot sleepers who need a little extra cooling at night.
- Kids: The Total Protection mattress pad lives up to its name and can help save a mattress from any spills or stains that might come from a child.
Who Should Avoid the Total Protection Mattress Pad
- Budget shoppers: This mattress pad is on the expensive side, which may not be affordable for all shoppers.
For more Sleep Number, check out our review of the Sleep Number True Temp sheets or the Sleep Number True Temp weighted blanket.
Best Heated Mattress Pad – Sunbeam Heated Mattress Pad
Another way to add a little warmth to your bed is a heated mattress pad, like the Sunbeam Heated mattress pad, which has 12 different settings.
Sunbeam Heated Mattress Pad
Sleepopolis Score
4.30 / 5
Expert Opinion
There are many sleep products marketed toward hot sleepers, but what about those who get chilly at night? The Sunbeam Heated Mattress Pad uses electricity to add additional warmth to your bed. It comes with a digital controller with 12 different heat settings that shut off automatically after 12 hours to prevent overheating. The queen and king sizes even have two controllers — one for each side of the bed. This mattress pad is made from 100 percent polyester. We were pleased in testing to find the wires used for heating are barely noticeable when resting on this mattress pad!
What our tester says: “As a cold sleeper myself, I love how this mattress pad adds some subtle warmth to the bed. I found it really easy to use — the controls are simple and intuitive.” — Amelia Jerden, senior staff writer
Who the Sunbeam Heated Mattress Pad is Best for
- Couples: The queen and king sizes each have two remotes to control each side. Couples can both have easy access to the controller, so no worries about adjusting after your partner has already fallen asleep.
- People seeking personalization: With 12 different settings, you can change how warm your bed is with ease.
- People living in colder climates: If you live somewhere that is usually chilly, this heated mattress pad could help keep you warm all year long.
Who Should Avoid the Sunbeam Heated Mattress Pad
- Hot sleepers: It goes without saying that hot sleepers are unlikely to enjoy this mattress. Since they already run hot at night, this mattress pad will only make them hotter.
Best Organic Mattress Pad – Birch Organic Mattress Pad
The Birch Organic mattress pad is made out of 100 percent GOTS certified organic cotton, making it a great choice for eco-conscious shoppers or if you're looking for something that won't irritate your skin while sleeping.
Birch Organic Mattress Pad
Expert Opinion
If you’re an eco-conscious shopper looking for a mattress pad to make your bed a bit comfier, then you’ll really enjoy the Birch Organic Mattress Pad. This mattress pad is made from three layers of 100 percent GOTS-certified organic cotton, making it super breathable and soft. It features a wide elastic band with silicone to ensure it’s secure on your mattress. This mattress pad is also Fair Trade certified and machine washable.
What our tester says: “This Birch Organic mattress pad adds some pleasant plushness to the surface of the bed. I also love how sturdy the elastic band is and that it’s made from organic materials.” — Amelia Jerden, senior staff writer
Who the Birch Organic is Best for
- Hot sleepers: The organic cotton makes the Birch Organic a breathable mattress pad, so hot sleepers can find a bit of cooling relief.
- People seeking comfort: This mattress pad has a bit of plushness to it, which makes it super cozy and comfortable.
- Quick cleaners: This mattress is machine washable, so cleaning it is a no-fuss process. Because it’s stain and spill resistant, it can prevent your mattress from being damaged.
Who Should Avoid the Birch Organic
- People wanting a thin pad: This mattress does have a bit of plushness to it. If you want a mattress pad that you can’t feel under your sheets, this may not be the best choice.
Take a look at our Birch Organic pillow review or Birch Plush Organic mattress topper review for even more organic options.
How We Picked
We kept our expectations realistic when selecting these options: No mattress pad is going to offer a ton of cushion, because that’s what mattress toppers are for. At the same time, it’s important that a mattress pad offer at least a little extra comfort compared to a pad-less mattress, or else what’s the point? So we made comfort one of our primary criteria.
Beyond comfort, we also focused on the following.
Construction
We focused on mattress pads that feature high-quality construction and attention to detail. For example, you’ll find that many of these options offer baffle box or diamond stitching, slip-proof elastic, deep pockets, breathable construction, and machine-washable designs.
These factors might seem small, but they can make a big difference when it comes to comfort, durability, and ease of use.
Cost
Mattress pads can range in price from under $30 to well over $100. This list includes options across the spectrum, so you can choose according to your own price point. Even if you don’t have a ton of money to spend, there are plenty of high-quality options well below the $100 mark.
Cost vs. Value
It’s important to keep in mind that a mattress pad’s price can sometimes correlate to its value as a whole. For example, if a mattress pad is made of high-quality materials, has a great warranty, and is reasonably priced, then we can conclude that you’re getting your money’s worth for the product. Similarly, a cheap mattress pad that lacks durability and falls apart may not be the greatest “bang for your buck.”
Materials
We selected mattress pads made with high-quality materials, such as 100 percent cotton or bamboo viscose. All of these materials should enhance the durability of a mattress pad. Each of these materials also boasts its own distinct benefits, so consider where your priorities lie before making your selection.
Sleepopolis Buying Tips
To choose the best mattress pad for your needs, consider the following:
- Why do you want a mattress pad? Are you trying to cool down a heat-trapping memory foam mattress? Are you looking to make a firm mattress a little softer? Are you trying to protect your mattress from wear and tear? The answers to these questions will help you know which features to prioritize.
- What are your pet peeves? For example, if you hate the feeling of fabric bunched up beneath you, choose a pad with baffle box construction or another design feature that prevents bunching. If you’re annoyed by having to fluff your bedding, look for an option that maintains its loft without this assistance.
- What is your budget? Knowing this before you start your search will help you rule out options that are beyond your price point and zero in on those choices that are affordable for you.
When shopping for a mattress pad, it’s important to keep their purpose in mind. Mattress pads won’t offer extra-soft or thick comfort layers, but they can take the edge off an old or too-firm mattress. Maintain realistic expectations, think about the materials and design features that you most prefer, and you should be able to find a mattress pad that satisfies your needs.
What Is a Mattress Pad?
A mattress pad is a relatively thick piece of quilted material that sits on top of your mattress, but below your sheets. It is primarily used to add comfort, but some also can help protect your mattress from general wear and tear and provide an extra layer of defense against, spills, soils and stains.
Adding a mattress pad can slightly change the feel and firmness of your bed. If you find that you are happy with the current feel of your mattress, adding a mattress pad is really an unnecessary expense — unless you are looking to add a little protection.
Mattress Protector vs. Mattress Topper vs. Mattress Pad
Mattress protectors, mattress pads and mattress toppers are all different a la carte options you can add to an existing mattress. While they sound extremely similar, there are a few key differences to note before you start the search. You may find that not all of these are necessary in your situation, which can save you hundreds of dollars in “bonus bedding”.
Mattress protectors are thin and usually waterproof, designed to sit directly on the surface of your mattress like a fitted sheet. Generally constructed from cotton or polyester, they are added below the fitted sheet and are the last hope to protect your mattress from unwanted stains. The main mission is to repel liquids and keep your mattress in like-new condition.
No matter if your mattress is old or new, we would highly recommend a mattress protector on every single bed. In addition to protecting from liquid stains, a good waterproof mattress protector will also protect against dust mites, bed bugs, pet dander or other allergens that may be floating around in the bedroom.
See our full list of the best mattress protectors.
In comparison to mattress protectors, mattress toppers couldn’t be any more different. While a protector aims to protect, a topper aims to add comfort. A mattress topper can be made of memory foam, latex foam, quilted blends, or many other materials. It is typically added atop a mattress that is no longer comfortable.
Mattress pads act as somewhat of a hybrid between mattress protectors and mattress toppers. They can provide protection from liquid spills and allergens as well as add an extra layer of comfort to your existing mattress. The thick quilted construction can provide a small amount of pressure relief that your current mattress may be lacking in.
FAQ: Do I need a mattress pad or a mattress protector?
Mattress Accessories ≠ Mattress
Mattress toppers, pads, and protectors can all be great additions to your mattress and aid in the best sleep possible. However, it’s important to note that these products are not a substitute for a mattress and aren’t meant to stand alone.
Mattress toppers can sometimes be used during camping if you don’t want to sleep directly on the ground, but this is the only exception.
Types of Mattress Pads
In the world of mattress pads, there are two main styles, fitted mattress pads and anchor mattress pads. Fitted mattress pads are thick and fit just like a fitted sheet would. The quilted top provides extra stability and the elastic side panels stretch over the sides of the mattress to hold it firmly in place.
Anchor Mattress Pads
Anchor mattress pads have a similar top to the fitted mattress pads, but the sides are treated a little different. In this installation, there are no side panels, but rather the top is secured to the mattress with a thick elastic band at the corners. While this is generally less secure, if you are a light sleeper and not notorious for kicking your bedding off of the bed, an anchor mattress pad may work just fine for you.
Cotton Mattress Pads
In addition to style, there is a variety of materials that a mattress pad can be made out of and each material will result in a mattress pad that’s distinctively different. Cotton mattress pads are the most common. They are typically thinner than the other styles as well as being machine washable. This feature alone may be a life saver for the stain-prone sleepers.
Wool Mattress Pads
Wool mattress pads may work well for sleepers who are looking for a durable mattress pad that can accommodate rapidly changing seasons. These types of mattress pads are typically cool and dry in the summer, but warm and cozy in the winter. It’s also important to add that this type of mattress pad is one of the most expensive mattress pads on the market.
Feather Mattress Pads
Feather mattress pads, also known as featherbeds or down mattress pads, are another option if you are looking to soften an existing mattress that is too firm. These mattress pads are more affordable than a wool mattress pad, but maintain many of the same benefits. Many of these mattress pads are made exclusively with goose or duck feathers.
One word of caution- when shopping for feather mattress pads, be sure to select one that has a quilted top. This will help to keep all of the feathers evenly distributed as you sleep and avoid a lumpy mattress pad.
Beware of Allergies
Many sleepers are allergic to certain materials commonly found in bedding, like wool and feathers. It goes without saying that these people should opt for a mattress pad with hypoallergenic materials.
If you’re not sure if you’ll be allergic to your mattress pad, it could be a good idea to get one with a lengthy trial period. That way you have time to test it out and return or exchange it if it doesn’t work for you.
Fiber Mattress Pads
Fiber mattress pads, sometimes referred to as fiberbeds or down alternative mattress pads (ex. eLuxurySupply bamboo mattress pad), are another affordable option if you’re looking to soften a firm mattress. These mattress pads are commonly compared to feather mattress pads, but instead of using traditional feathers, they are filled with a polyester fiber or down alternative material.
These are typically the most affordable between wool and traditional down mattress pads, but the lifespan may not be as long. In addition, some sleepers find that these types of mattress pads become lumpy and flatten out in a short period of time. Regular “fluffing” will help to prolong this as well as choosing one with a quilted top.
FAQs
What is a mattress pad?
A mattress pad is designed to lie on top of a mattress. Its main function is to provide a layer of comfort. This can be especially helpful if a consumer has a mattress that is worn or uncomfortable.
What is the difference between a mattress pad and a mattress topper?
A mattress pad is generally a thin piece of material that is placed on top of your mattress to help adjust the firmness level. A mattress topper is an upgrade on this, is usually much thicker and can be purchased in many different firmness levels and thicknesses.
What does a mattress pad do?
Mattress pads can serve many functions including protecting the mattress, providing extra cushion or softness and can also help to keep your bed sheets from sliding around or out of place.
Riley Otis
Editorial Intern
About Author
Riley is an editorial intern at Sleepopolis. She’s a firm believer that there’s nothing better than a good night’s sleep. Riley is a student at Elon University and currently working towards a degree in journalism and creative writing. In her free time, she loves to paint, cook, and spend time with family (especially her pets).
Combination Sleeper