Sleepopolis is supported by readers. Product links on Sleepopolis are referral links. If you use one of these and buy something Sleepopolis makes a little bit of money. See how it all works here.Do I need a mattress pad or mattress protector for my new Casper, Tuft & Needle, Leesa, Saatva, or other online mattress? This is by far one of the most common questions I receive on my blog, and it’s long over due for a quick question and answer post. First off, it’s important to note the differences between mattress pads and mattress protectors. A mattress pad is a relatively thick piece of quilted material that sits on top of your mattress, but below your sheets. A mattress pad can help to protect your mattress to some degree from general wear and tear, and help reduce allergens, but in general you’d purchase a mattress pad to add comfort to your mattress. The primary reason I would suggest buying a mattress pad is because you’re unhappy with your current mattress and a mattress pad can be a nice short term solution to add comfort to an older or uncomfortable mattress.
If you’re buying a brand new mattress, whether it’s foam, innerspring, or otherwise, there is really no need to purchase a mattress pad. Mattress toppers would be a similar option if you’re seeking a temporary solution to add comfort, but that’s another blog post. A mattress protector also sits directly on the surface of your mattress, but below your sheets. It’s similar to a fitted sheet in the way it covers the mattress. They are generally made from cotton, polyester, or other materials, and are designed to help repel liquid and prevent other sources of damage (dirt, dust, allergens, etc). The most common use for a mattress protector is simply as a liquid resistant protector. In the event you were to spill a drink, have an accident prone child or pet, or have a sexy-times accident, the mattress protector will help to ensure your expensive mattress stays fresh, clean, and unsoiled. I would highly recommend a mattress protector to anyone who is purchasing a new mattress, or already owns a mattress without a mattress protector.
They are an inexpensive way to ensure your mattress stays nice for years. Most mattress protectors are fairly thin. They don’t have to be thick to do their job if they are made well. As such, they have very little impact in terms of the feel and comfort of the mattress they are on. My wife and I have been using a pretty good and inexpensive mattress protector we purchased from Amazon when we bought our mattress. We’ve slept several times with it off to get a sense of the feel and I cannot tell any noteworthy difference in feel, comfort, or sound when the mattress protector is on vs. with it off. In addition to protecting your mattress from damage, liquids, etc. they can also aid in reducing allergens, dust mites, and asthma issues. If you have an older mattress that you’re not terribly happy with I would recommend a mattress pad. Mattress pads are an inexpensive way to add a little life to older or otherwise uncomfortable mattresses. If it’s a new mattress, there is no need to purchase a mattress pad (assuming you are happy with the mattress).
A mattress protector on the other hand is all but required. It’s inexpensive, protects your investment, has no visible impact, and shouldn’t dramatically change the way the mattress feels. In my book it’s a no brainer. Below are my favorite mattress protectors and mattress pads:Sure Fit Deluxe Breathable Mattress Pad Stay cool with this Sure Fit Deluxe Breathable Mattress Pad Perfect for covering memory foam mattresses Good for hot sleepers FORMFITTM Technology from Sure Fit holds the cover firmly in place Air Flow 5.9 oz. spacer knit backing creates a layer of air circulation between you and your mattress Performance technology allows excess heat to escape Twin measures 15" H x 39" L x 75" W Twin XL measures 15" H x 39" L x 80" W Full measures 15" H x 54" L x 75" W Queen measures 15" H x 60" L x 80" W King measures 15" H x 78" L x 80" W California king measures 15" H x 72" L x 84" W Fits mattresses up to 18" deep
100% cotton cover with 9" diamond quilted pattern Machine wash, cold water Sold by The Demelle Group and Fulfilled by Amazon. New (1) from $36.95 Mattress protectors from AmazonBasics starting at Made with a hypoallergenic cotton-terry surface and a waterproof, breathable, quiet membrane barrier. Cool Shield No Allergy Waterproof Mattress Protector - Breathable Terry Cover Protects Against Dust Mites, Allergens, Bacteria, Mold and Fluids - See Reviews - Machine Washable Mattress Protector - Best 10-yr Guarantee - Size: Queen (60 in x 80 in)DetailsSerta Ultimate 4-inch Visco Memory Foam Mattress Topper - Queen Cool Shield Mattress Protector Provides Total Protection with Complete Comfort Did you know that a Cool Shield mattress protector is hygienic and provides health benefits for the whole family - particularly children? Our non allergenic waterproof mattress protector has been designed with fluid-proof technology and extra thin premium cotton terry.
Quality ConstructionYour mattress protector will not shrink or fray. Cotton terry fabric is used in the most expensive mattress protectors on the market, providing comfortable nights and full protection. WaterproofProvides the unique ability to absorb fluids and is guaranteed to not change the feel of your mattress. SilentYou won't even know you have a mattress protector on. Advanced technology provides a quiet night sleep so you are not disturbed if you move around. Breathable / CoolUnlike many other waterproof protectors, Cool Shield allows air to flow through while being impermeable to fluids and moisture. Total ProtectionTotally protects the top of your mattress against Fluids, Dust Mites, Allergens, Mildew, Bacteria, and Mold. This is not an encasement. Soft, Extra Thin Premium Cotton TerryThe terry cover is soft and comfortable - guaranteed to not change the feel of your mattress. Machine WashableFor best results, wash with warm water and regular detergent. Use non-chlorinated bleach only.
Dry on low heat or air dry. Quality GuaranteedThe 10-year guarantee provides confidence that you have purchased the highest quality mattress protector. Produced in a manufacturing facility that is ISO 9001:2008 certified, Cool Shield is becoming known as the new standard for mattress protectors on the market. Click Add to Cart above to feel the Cool Shield difference. 60 x 80 x 18 inches 1.7 pounds (View shipping rates and policies) 3.8 out of 5 stars #26,452 in Home and Kitchen (See Top 100 in Home and Kitchen) #101 in Home & Kitchen > Bedding > Mattress Pads & Protectors > Mattress Protectors Bamboo Hypoallergenic Mattress Protector by Red Nomad - Breathable Cool Flow Technology for Maximum Circulation & Comfort - Queen Size Queen Size SafeRest Premium Hypoallergenic Waterproof Mattress Protector - Vinyl Free Ultra Luxe Bamboo derived Viscose Rayon Mattress Pad Protector Cover by Coop Home Goods - Cooling Waterproof Hypoallergenic Topper- Queen - White