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: When you buy from Cuddledown, you're entering a world of superior quality, comfort and style. Try our soft cashmere blankets, lustrous sateen sheets or crisp percale sheets. Our customers love our flannel sheets and silk pillowcases, as well as our top rated bamboo towels. Shop other Cuddledown top rated products. There's sleepwear, and then there's Cuddledown's premier nightgowns and pajamas. We select only premium quality to provide you with an unparalleled level of comfort exemplified by our Calida sleepwear collection. We are committed to making and selling the best products on the market. Our down and synthetic fill pillows, comforters and featherbeds are hand-crafted right here in Yarmouth, Maine.
Allergy Relief & Sleep Solutions Here at Cuddledown, revitalizing sleep is our top priority. Our hypoallergenic mattress pads and bedding protectors are designed to provide you with the best night's sleep you have ever had. Shop an unrivaled selection of mattress pads and mattress toppers that will provide luxurious comfort while extending the life of your mattress.A mattress can be one of the most costly components in the bedroom, so once you've found the mattress of your dreams, you'll want to protect your investment. Mattress protectors/pads and encasements prolong the life of your mattress while protecting the mattress from dust, dirt, stains and more. Mattress covers and box spring covers can be flame resistant, hypoallergenic, antimicrobial, allergen resistant to deter dust mites, pet dander and the like, even impermeable to help stop the penetration of bed bugs through fabric. Much like mattresses, mattress protectors are available in sizes ranging from twin and twin-XL to full, queen, king and California king as well as sized for a crib mattresses.
A waterproof mattress protector for the crib is a practical investment that will pay for itself. Most mattress protectors are machine washable so you can keep them clean and fresh. For those heading off to college, a mattress protector is an important part of any bedding ensemble but more so when the mattress is previously owned. So, what's the difference between a mattress encasement and a mattress pad/protector? Generally, an encasement fully encloses either the mattress or box spring. A cover typically covers three sides only, similar to the way a mattress pad or topper fits. A mattress pad is placed above the actual mattress, and is used to protect the mattress from staining and wear, and to help keep sheets on the bed. Some are hypoallergenic, and the thick ones provide extra comfort and support. Many types of mattress pads and encasements are available. Mattress Encasements for Allergy Protection For chronic allergy sufferers, there is no better solution than a full mattress encasement and box spring encasement.
There are many options that offer protection from allergens such as dust, dust mites, dead skin, pet dander and pollen. A typical mattress cover cannot prevent allergens from your mattress from coming in contact with you. Mattress Encasements for Bed Bug Protection People all over the world are concerned over the growing outbreak of bedbugs. While a mattress encasement will not protect your home from a bedbug infestation, it will effectively lock bedbugs out of your sleep system. Only total encasement mattress protectors with a locking zipper provide protection against bedbugs. Fitted: A fitted pad is like a thick, fitted sheet, with a bit of quilting on the top and fitted, elastic sides to make sure that the pad does not move around. Anchor: Anchor pads are a cheaper version, covering the top of the mattress and anchored by elastic bands in the corners. Guaranteed-to-Fit: A guaranteed-to-fit mattress pad is also similar to the anchor pad, except the sidewalls expand to accommodate variations in mattress size.