Mattress Pads vs. Mattress Toppers: What's the Difference?

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Bedding experts break down the differences.

Whether your mattress is new or old, you may be interested in topping it off with a mattress pad or a mattress topper to not only protect it from stains and spills, but in order to alter the feel of it. Though there’s no wrong choice, one product may be better suited for you over the other depending on how much you want to change your mattress as well as other factors, like material preferences, budget and ease of care.

Over the years, the fiber scientists and product analysts at the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab have reviewed hundreds of mattress pads and mattress toppers, from our favorite cooling mattress pads for hot sleepers to sink-in soft memory foam mattress toppers as well as mattress toppers for college students. In addition to our own extensive testing notes, we’ve also gathered firsthand feedback from at-home testers who use mattress pads and mattress toppers on their own beds.

Our experts know exactly what to look for when it comes to choosing between a mattress pad and a mattress topper, and we’re here to explain some of the key differences between the two as well as some of their unique benefits. Here's everything you need to know about a mattress pad vs. mattress topper to help you decide which product is right for you.

A mattress pad is a thin covering with five sides that goes over your mattress like a fitted sheet, typically adding a thin extra layer of comfort. Though you shouldn’t expect a mattress pad to drastically change the feel of your bed, it can protect your mattress and typically costs less than a mattress topper.

A mattress pad is a fairly inexpensive, easy way to add a little bit of softness to your existing mattress. While it won't completely revive a saggy, old mattress, it can moderately increase the level of comfort and support to help extend its life.

Mattress pads protect your mattress from wear and tear, stains, spills and even some common allergens like pollen and pet dander. But if your goal is a defense against bed bugs, bed wetting and the like, our pros recommend purchasing a mattress protector instead. You can even use a mattress protector underneath your mattress pad if you don't want to sacrifice the comfortable top layer that comes with a mattress pad. Another pro of mattress pads is that some may be small and light enough to be washed in the washing machine, but always check care instructions first.

A mattress pad is in no way a replacement for a new mattress. While it can add softness and plushness to your bed, it may not offer enough comfort for those who are unhappy with their existing mattress. For instance, if you're someone who has back pain or is pregnant and seeking pressure relief, it may be better to purchase a thick, high-quality mattress topper or a new mattress altogether.

A mattress topper usually sits on top of your mattress, and it can be anywhere from one to three or more inches thick. Due to its thickness, a mattress topper can significantly change the feel of a mattress, so it's an excellent choice for anyone hoping to make an old or worn mattress more comfortable. Mattress toppers may come with straps to help you anchor it onto your mattress and prevent shifting overnight, while others simply lie on top.

A mattress topper can be a wonderful addition to your bed if you don’t love how it feels, or if you’re simply hoping to add some extra softness, comfort and pressure relief. Investing in a mattress topper is actually the easiest way to transform your bed and sleeping experience without having to invest in a new mattress. For these reasons, they’re a popular choice for college students that aren’t able to choose their own bed, as well as anyone who owns an older mattress that's in need of a boost.

Due to its thickness, a mattress topper will inevitably add a few inches to the height of your bed. This may not be an issue, but it’s something to keep in mind if you already own a tall mattress. Before making a purchase, double-check that your sheets can accommodate both your mattress and its topper.

A mattress topper may also not be the right choice for those who prefer a firm bed. Though a mattress topper can certainly add support, it will likely make your bed softer than it was initially.

Lastly, there's a good chance you won't be able to throw a mattress topper in the washing machine to give it a quick clean. Typically, toppers are spot-clean only, so if you're worried about stains or spills, you may also need to invest in a mattress protector or opt for a topper with a removable, washable cover. Because mattress toppers are generally more expensive, this may further drive up the cost.

✔️ Down-alternative mattress pads: The most popular mattress pads are fiber-filled with a down alternative, usually an animal-free polyester blend. These pads will provide a soft layer on your mattress while keeping costs low.

✔️ Down mattress pads: Mattress pads filled with 100% down are some of the softest, plus they're great for adding plushness to your bed, though they're more costly. Lofty down pads can help give your bed a fluffier feel.

✔️ Cotton mattress pads: You'll come across many mattress pads that feature a cotton shell, though most will be filled either with down or polyester. Mattress pads made entirely of cotton will offer excellent breathability, as well as some protection from stains and spills, thanks to the absorbent nature of the material. They're naturally super soft, though may not be as durable or cost-friendly.

✔️ Wool mattress pads: Though rare and harder to find, some mattress pads are filled with wool. Known for its natural temperature regulation, wool is ideal for adding warmth and softness to your bed in cold, winter months as well as keeping you cool in the summer.

✔️ Memory foam mattress toppers: If you like the feel of memory foam mattresses, consider a memory foam mattress topper. Popular for its sink-in comfort, pressure relief and support, memory foam mattress toppers should add softness to mattresses on the firmer side. Just keep in mind that memory foam may trap heat, so we suggest hot sleepers look for memory foam mattress toppers infused with gel or graphite to prevent overheating.

✔️ Latex mattress toppers: Latex is another popular material that you'll find in mattress toppers, thanks to its bouncy feel. This natural foam is made from rubber trees so it's oftentimes more expensive, but the material is more durable and resilient while still offering support and softness.

✔️ Pillow-top mattress toppers: These mattress toppers are made from down or fiberfill to add cloud-like softness to your bed. While 100% down or down featherbeds will be the fluffiest and most luxurious, polyester fiberfill is a great way to achieve a similar feel that's both animal-free and less expensive.

✔️ Hybrid mattress toppers: If you want a combination of all of the above, a hybrid memory topper may be the solution for you. These mattress toppers usually combine a layer of foam with a pillow-top cover to achieve a combination of pressure relief, support and plushness. If you're looking for a featherbed feel with extra support, you can also consider a hybrid mattress topper made from memory foam clusters and fiberfill.

Whether you're shopping for a mattress pad or a mattress topper, we suggest considering the the following criteria:

✔️ Thickness: The thicker your mattress pad or mattress topper, the more support you can expect. A thick mattress topper, for instance, can drastically change the feel of your bed, while a thinner mattress pad will have less impact. Look for at least two inches if you're shopping for a mattress topper.

✔️ Softness: Both mattress pads and mattress toppers can add softness to your bed, but if you're looking for maximum softness, our pros recommend opting for a mattress topper. Down and fiberfill toppers will add fluffy, plush comfort to firm mattresses, while memory foam toppers are known for their sink-in softness.

✔️ Support: Whether you have back pain or simply need some pressure relief around your joints, a mattress topper made of foam will be the most supportive.

✔️ Temperature regulation: Foam, down and down alternatives are found in both mattress pads and mattress toppers, and all carry the risk of trapping heat. If you tend to overheat at night, look for a mattress pad or mattress topper with cooling features or temperature regulation properties.

✔️ Price: A mattress topper will typically cost more than a mattress pad, roughly $200 to $300 for a Queen size. Though mattress toppers are the most effective way to transform the feel of your mattress without buying a new one, you may not need quite so much support and added softness.

✔️ Care: For the most part, it's easier to clean mattress pads, thanks to their lighter, thinner nature. If regular cleaning is important to you, look for one that is machine washable. Mattress toppers, on the other hand, typically aren't washable, especially ones that are made from thick foam. Always double-check care instructions, and consider mattress toppers with a removable cover to help you keep it clean.

✔️ Certifications: Keep an eye out for labels such as CertiPUR-US if choosing a foam mattress topper to ensure there are no harmful levels of off-gassing chemicals in the material. If your mattress pad or mattress topper contains down, check for a Responsible Down Standard (RDS) label, which ensures the ducks and geese receive humane treatment.

First, ask yourself how much you want to change the feel of your bed before purchasing a mattress pad or a mattress topper. If you want to add a significant amount of softness or support, you'll likely find what you're looking for from a mattress topper. If, however, your bed needs some extra protection and could benefit from a bit of fluffiness, then you might find everything you need from a mattress pad (while saving yourself a lot of money). Ultimately there's no right or wrong choice, and the best product for you comes down to the experience you're seeking.

Lexie Sachs is the executive director of the Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute, where she oversees testing to find the best bedding, including mattress pads and mattress toppers. She has been reviewing toppers firsthand since she joined Good Housekeeping over 10 years ago, reviewing them in the Lab and sending them to the homes of consumer testers for more feedback. She enjoys trying out mattress pads and toppers on her own bed and evaluating how they affect the feel of the mattress.

GH Institute analyst Olivia Lipski closely collaborated with Sachs to write this guide based on the Textiles Lab's extensive testing data.

Olivia (she/her) is a media and tech product reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute, covering tech, home, auto, health and more. She has more than five years of experience writing about tech trends and innovation and, prior to joining GH in 2021, was a writer for Android Central, Lifewire and other media outlets. Olivia is a graduate of George Washington University, with a bachelor's degree in journalism, political science and French, and she holds a master’s degree in communications from Sciences Po Paris.

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