Before buying a mattress pad, decide if you want it for extra cushion or extra protection, or both. Then you can choose one with the best construction, thread count, fit and depth to suit your needs.

Mattress Pads for Protection

Many protective mattress pads are washable and filled with cotton. Some are quilted with heavy padding, while others are only a flat barrier between the fitted sheet and mattress. Only vinyl versions repel liquids.

Mattress Pads for Extra Support

Mattress pads can improve sleep quality by adding softness to hard mattresses. They also come in a variety of thicknesses to provide the ultimate amount of cushion.

Natural and synthetic materials can be used to make options like:

Memory foam mattress pads - lightweight, thick foam that softens with heat and comfortably molds to your body. Memory foam is one of the most popular choices to make a bed more comfortable without the expense of buying a new mattress.

Cotton mattress pads - soft and machine washable. They are usually thin, quilted and built with elastic edging to keep the it in place.

Natural latex mattress pads - durable, naturally hypoallergenic and free of dust mites and mold. Natural latex mattress pads are harvested from rubber trees and can last up to 20 years. Synthetic latex can last even longer.

Wool mattress pads - extremely soft and naturally dust mite and mold-resistant. Wool mattress pads absorb moisture from the body and act as an insulator, so you can remain comfortable in both summer and winter temperatures.

Mattress Pad Thread Count

Just like sheets and comforters, thread count is the number of threads woven into a square inch of fabric. It’s a sign of the quality, texture and durability of the mattress pad. Since higher thread counts mean tighter weaves, a mattress pad with a high thread count will keep the fill in and debris out and most likely last longer.

Mattress Pad Fits

Mattress pads can be attached to your bed in multiple ways:

Anchor mattress pad - uses elastic bands to hug the mattress corners.

Fitted mattress pad - looks like a fitted sheet. The top and the sides of the mattress are covered with elastic corners. The top is usually quilted.

Wrap mattress pad - the most secure fit. Elastic covers the top and sides all the way around the bottom. Even the sides are quilted for maximum padding and hold.