These two are often used interchangeably. If you want to add softness or height to your existing bed, is it okay to just choose any of the two?
While they look quite similar, there are key differences to each one. And depending on your needs, one will serve you better and one may just be a waste of money.
What are mattress pads and when you should choose them
Between a topper and a pad, a mattress pad is thinner. They range from 1-2 inches deep. People choose a pad primarily for three main reasons. One is to add softness to your mattress or change the comfort level of your existing bed. Two, to offer protection from liquids or spillages. And three, to serve as a deterrent from dust mites and insects.
Depending on the purpose, pads may be made from a variety of materials. So before buying a topper, your needs should be made known so that you can buy the perfect piece to make your sleep the most comfortable.
Which is ideal for spillages
If you are co-sleeping with your baby, toppers made of latex should be considered. This material is quite resilient and can deter liquids and spillages. So if the baby wets the bed in the middle of the night, it would be easy to clean off and it will not seep through to the mattress. It can be quite challenging and finicky to clean a mattress that’s been soiled with baby pee, not to mention you have to ensure it’s thoroughly dried so as not to harbor molds.
Also, latex can contour your body well and can add a decent bounce.
What can help you keep cool?
Mattress pads are a budget-friendly alternative if your existing mattress isn’t the most breathable. Come summer or once the temperature starts to rise, you can unfold the topper and lay it out for a more airy bed. Pads made of wool are the most viable choice. This material wicks away moisture and can keep you cool during your sleep.
Which can make your bed softer?
For this category, we have two options, fiber and feather mattress pads.
Fiber pads are not only the most economical, these are the best materials that can add a bit more plushness to your bed. If you find your mattress too firm but do not have the budget yet to buy a softer one, you no longer have to bear with a too-firm bed.
Feather pads can add a luxurious softness to your bed, but can also be quite expensive. It can add layers of plushness to a very firm mattress. But this material is not for everybody, some may have allergies to feathers, so fiber may be the next alternative. Though inferior to feathers when it comes to softness, it can still add a layer of plushness to your bed.
We also have memory foam pads. They are not that commonly available in the market but these can add both softness and support to your body.
What are mattress toppers and why should you buy them instead?
Like pads, mattress toppers are also used to add softness to your bed. They can also make the bed firmer. The difference is, that these can be thicker than pads, they can range from 1 to 4 inches deep.
Like mattress pads, toppers are also made from different materials.
Which can make your bed the softest?
Memory foam is king when it comes to this category. They can add a satisfying depth of softness to your bed. And if you need to wake you with fewer body aches and pains, this material can give noticeable support to your body.
Second in plushness are feather toppers. They can add a significant amount of softness and plushness to your bed. your mattress is very firm and you cannot dare to have a decent comfortable sleep, feather toppers can transform your bed into a haven of clouds. It can either be made from goose or duck. This can also add significant depth to your beds, it can add height to a rather shallow mattress.
Like feather pads, some folks may be allergic to goose or down feathers. So this is not for you if you have allergies.
What is an alternative if you are allergic to feathers but want a softer bed?
If you can’t stand the presence of feathers without sneezing or developing hives, wool can make your bed softer sans the flare-ups. These are also a temperature-regulating material, so regardless if you want to make the bed softer or firmer, these can be used for all seasons.
What can add more support to a lax bed?
If you often sink to the middle of the mattress and lack bounce, you need to add more layers of support. Latex toppers can give you that significant contouring and support that your spine and body need. These can also add a satisfying and decent bounce to a boring bed.
When to choose a mattress and when to choose a topper
They seem to suffice the same need. So what will make you choose between the two? The answer is how much of a change you want to feel in your mattress.
Since toppers are thicker, they can add more cushiness and more depth to the bed. Buying a topper is a more economical option than replacing an old mattress. If you find your existing bed too firm or lacking in support but don’t have buds yet to buy a better replacement, a mattress topper is still a wise choice. You will be able to feel the difference.
Pads, on the other hand, with their material, can only add a certain amount of softness to your bed. So do not expect a drastic change, but these are cheaper too. Thus, if you are looking to add just a bit of comfort and plushness to your existing mattress, this can suffice.
.In terms of protection, toppers can also add longevity to your mattresses. They can prevent it from sagging. Though pads can also offer a bit of protection, but mainly from liquids, milds, and spillages ( depending on the material), they may not be able to give extra support and contouring for the body.
With all things considered, mattress toppers are king when it comes to comfort and support, but they also come with a heftier sum.