Most mattresses require replacement every ten years or so. When your old mattress feels more like a sagging sack of potatoes than something designed for sleep, it's time for an upgraded sleeping solution. While both a new mattress or a mattress topper can make sleep time a little more enjoyable, your ultimate choice may depend upon whether a mattress topper makes enough difference in the feel of the mattress, compared to the upfront cost of a completely new mattress. With Topping A quality mattress topper is sometimes all that's needed to transform an uncomfortable mattress into one that offers a good night's sleep. If the mattress itself is still in good shape -- no sags, tears or stray springs to poke your back -- a topper may do the trick. A mattress too firm for your liking is made more comfortable with a soft topper, such as one filled with down. Likewise, a soft mattress offers a more supportive feel when fitted with a natural latex topper. A topper generally costs less than a mattress of similar quality, and is easier to move and manipulate without help.
Without Topping While a mattress topper seems like a good idea for a less-than-comfortable mattress, it's not always the ideal solution. A topper, no matter how well it's made, cannot make up for problems such as a significant sag in the middle of a mattress. A mattress in such bad shape requires replacement; even with a topper, it may still cause backaches or sleeplessness. A topper may make up for minor concerns, such as a mattress slightly too firm or too soft, but without a good mattress beneath, it does not significantly change the overall sleep experience. Test It First A new mattress provides comfortable support when the old one is in such bad shape even a topper does not help. At least with a mattress, lying on it in the store allows you to know ahead of time how it feels. With a mattress topper, there's no way to tell how comfy it is on top of your existing mattress until you bring it home and try it. A quality mattress, especially one that can be flipped for even more wear, typically lasts longer than a topper, which takes the brunt of the abuse from daily use.
New Mattress Woes Cost is a major consideration when purchasing a new mattress. While inexpensive models may be a few hundred dollars, pricier models may be more than ten times that amount. As with any mattress, even a quality one eventually needs replacement -- most mattresses wear out in less than ten years. And many new mattresses contain a lot of chemicals and fire-retardants that can affect people with allergies. Review the chemicals and products that go into a mattress before buying to make your sleep a safe and healthy one. /Getty Images Suggest a CorrectionSee 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: Customize the feel of your mattress by adding one of our luxurious certified organic pillow tops. Any style may be added to one of our organic mattresses, and will provide an additional layer of cushioning to enhance your comfort. All of our organic pillow tops meet the GREENGUARD® product emission standard and are handmade in the USA.