Add Your Mattress Protector
While your mattress topper will provide some level of moisture resistance, you might want an extra layer of protection. Thats where a mattress protector comes in.
A mattress protector serves as a barrier between the rest of the world and your mattress.
It can help prevent spills from soaking into your mattress or topper. Plus, it can also help prevent the general wear and tear your mattress will go through over the course of its lifecycle.
If you use a mattress protector, you can stretch on top of your mattress topper before putting on your sheets.
You can skip this step if you arent using an additional mattress protector too.
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What Does A Mattress Pad Do
A better question might be what does a mattress pad not do? Mattress pads are the jack-of-all-trades for beds. Depending on material and model, they can offer benefits like:3
- Increased mattress life
- Temperature regulation
- Breathability or airflow
You might hear the terms mattress pad, topper, and cushion used interchangeably. While similar, there are slight distinctions.
A pad is thinner, usually providing less physical support and more overall mattress protection. A topper or cushion is thicker, adding extra comfort and bed height. At Casper, weve combined the best of both worlds. Our latex foam mattress topper provides plush support, breathability, and mattress protectiona winning trifecta.
Mattress Protector Vs Mattress Topper: Prices And Key Brands
- Toppers are more expensive than protectors
- Some toppers cost as much as a mid-range mattress
- Mattress protectors start from as little as $10
No matter your budget, there will be something within your price range, with the difference being in the quality, feel and performance. Mattress covers start at around $10 and are easy to pick up from Amazon, or you can look online to see what the likes of Casper, Nectar, Saatva or others have to offer.
Options from the bigger brands are often made with higher-quality materials and are designed to last longer, providing better resistance against wear and tear, and repeated washing, for years to come. This means you get better value for your money, even though youre shelling out more to begin with.
Its the same story for mattress toppers, which typically start from $50 on major retail sites like Walmart, Target and Amazon, with big-brand versions running into the hundreds. If yours comes with extra features, such as rustle-free fabric, cooling tech or certified organic materials, as found in the best organic mattresses, then you should expect to pay extra.
Most mattress manufacturers offer risk-free trial periods, and some offer the same for their toppers, although this is far less common for protectors. There is usually a warranty, and free shipping too, though some brands and retailers ask that you spend a minimum amount to qualify for free shipping.
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What Is A Mattress Protector And Why Would You Need One
A mattress protector is designed to do just that. Protect your mattress.It comes in the form of a sheet, except it is made out of special materials to make them impermeable.
When we sleep, we sweat. Some more than others. We also shed a lot of dead skin cells and hair. All of this accumulates in our beds and will inevitably end up in our mattresses. Cleaning a whole mattress can be quite an ordeal and is most likely not something that you would want to do regularly.
This is where a mattress protector comes in. The mattress protector should go directly underneath the bottom sheet of your linen. This means that anything that you shed while youre sleeping will be able to permeate the sheet but wont be able to go through the mattress protector and into the mattress.
How Do I Decide What I Need
If your bed feels too soft or firm and you want to alter its feel, then you need a mattress topper. This thick layer placed on the surface of your mattress also protects it from wear, promoting durability.
If you want to add a layer of plushness to your bed, a mattress pad on top of your mattress will work. If your intention is to protect your bed from spills and stains, then waterproof mattress protectors are your option.
About the author
Sanchita Sen is a full-time writer focusing on the sleep health and mattress industry. She is a former journalist who has written numerous articles on the healthcare sector. Some of the topics she has covered include how to lucid dream, fever dreams, melatonin for sleep, and best gel memory foam mattress. Sanchita holds a Master of Arts in Communications from Convergence Institute of Mass Media and Information Technology Studies. She is also a published author, who seeks inspiration from both real life and the world of fiction.
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Bed Bugs Treatment And Protection
Bed bugs don’t always elicit serious concern, but they can cause terrible rashes, serious allergic reactions, and more. Secondary infections as a result of bite reactions include ecthyma, impetigo, and lymphangitis.
These pests can even cause mental health issues in severely infested homes, with inhabitants reporting insomnia, anxiety, and systemic reactions but a protector could help.
So What Is A Mattress Topper
Another accessory that often confuses people is the mattress topper. Compared to a pad or protector, the mattress topper is a layer of pure padding placed under the sheet.
Much like a pad, a mattress topper is designed to add comfort and support. What makes it different is its construction.
A mattress pad is made from light padding and made to fit specific bed sizes. It can make your bed feel softer but not as much as a layer of foam would. A mattress topper, on the other hand, is typically a layer of memory foam. As such, it will contour around your body and provide targeted support.
Given the material, a topper can provide some protection against light spills and stains. However, it cannot be used to replace a protector. The best mattress toppers can be made from goose down or memory foam. If youre looking to make a firm mattress feel softer, you can also find plush mattress toppers. Depending on your preference, you can always find a mattress topper that suits your needs. You can even buy a mattress topper that is best for back pain.
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Some Drawbacks Of A Mattress Topper
- Mattress toppers arent as lightweight as mattress pads and can be difficult to move.
- They can shift positions and bunch up because they are not directly attached to the mattress.
- They are difficult to clean and are not machine-washable.
- They can be expensive .
- Mattress toppers can insulate the heat and make your bed hotter.
Mattress Protectors Vs Mattress Pads: Key Brands
There is generally a wider range of mattress covers available compared to pads. Nearly all the major sleep brands offer both, and as mentioned earlier, quite often manufacturers throw in a free protector along with other bedding when you buy a mattress.
Here are a few of our go-to pads and protectors to give you an idea of whats good
US MATTRESS PADS AND PROTECTORS
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What’s The Science Behind It
As we turn or roll over during sleep, minute particles of dust mite enzymes become airborne. These airborne particles easily enter the eyes, nose, mouth, and lungs, and when breathed in they can become lodged in the bronchi, causing inflammation, wheezing, and the development of allergic asthma.
We believe the best way to protect your sleep environment is to use hypoallergenic mattress and pillow protectors that are designed to reduce or minimize the possibility of a reaction to allergen triggers such as dust mites, smoke, perfumes, deodorants, mold and pet dander.
Do You Need A Mattress Pad
If your main goal is to have a little bit of softness, padding, breathability, temperature control, or other improvement to the surface comfort of your mattress, then a mattress pad may be what you need.
You need a mattress pad if you want to add some extra comfort to your mattress. Mattress pads can also protect a bed from some stains and moisture.
Parents with small children who may wet the bed should consider a mattress pad with a waterproof feature. It will protect the mattress from getting wet and make cleanup easier. This waterproof mattress pad can help protect a Cal King mattress thats up to 18 inches thick.
You do not need a mattress pad if your mattress has lost its support, because the pad will not do much. In that case, you should consider buying a new mattress, or possibly a thicker, more supportive mattress topper.
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What Is A Mattress Topper And Why Would You Need One
A mattress topper is a thin piece of foam that sits on top of your mattress. The purpose of the mattress topper is to be an extension of the mattress itself. It can add some extra cushioning and comfort to your mattress.
If you share a bed with a partner who prefers a different firmness in their mattress, you might consider getting a mattress topper for only one half of the bed. That way, you can both get what you want when it comes to comfort and firmness.
Mattress toppers are also a great consideration if you have an old mattress that is no longer in the best shape. Instead of buying a whole new mattress, a mattress topper might be just what you need to give your old mattress a new lease on life.
This could give you another few years with your old mattress while you save up some extra money for an investment in a high quality replacement mattress.
Whats The Difference Between Mattress Pads Protectors And Encasements
Okay, we recognize that the landscape of utility bedding has become a little muddy, and that there might be some confusion when talking about products to help you protect your hotel or rental properties’ mattresses and box springs.
We want to help, so were going to break down the three most common types of utility bedding for mattresses, and help you decide which makes the most sense for your property.
Mattress Pads
First up are mattress pads. Typically, mattress pads are constructed like a fitted sheet, where the sleep surface of the mattress is protected. As its name suggests, they also tend to have padding or quilting. This is a product that you would use to elevate your guests sleeping experience, as it brings added comfort and support to your bedding protocol. It is also very common for mattress pads to be waterproof on top, adding a protective element. We suggest using a mattress pad in conjunction with other protective bedding products, to leverage the life of your mattress and increase its longevity.
Mattress Protectors
Mattress Encasements
Many encasements are also 100% waterproof on top, so you are still safe from the accidental wine spill. What makes encasements more of a powerhouse product is that they can also save your mattresses from bed bug harborage!
If youre worried about bed bugs at your property , an encasement is the best line of defense for minimizing costs associated with those revenue-draining suckers!
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What Is The Ultimate Way To Protect A Bed
At Bargoose we recommend you start with a zippered mattress encasement, which you will leave on your bed washing 1x every year. Put a waterproof mattress pad on top of the zippered mattress protector. It can be easily removed and washed between each guest stay or when you wash your sheets at home just the same.
Similarly we recommend a zippered pillow protector be used to encase your pillows from dirt, dust allergens, moisture, and even bed bugs. This is placed directly on top of your pillow but beneath the outer pillow case.
What Is A Pillow Protector
A pillow protector is a encasement that protects your pillows by offering a layer of security against spillage, wear and tear, and moisture. These come in several types, such as allergen barrier, waterproof, or bed bug protectors and allow you to enjoy your favorite pillows a little longer while offering better protection against unwanted elements.
Bargoose has a complete line of pillow protectors including:
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Here Are 7 Popular Differences Well Explained Below
Difference 1: Thickness
A mattress topper and mattress pad will be much thicker than a mattress protector. After all, the mattress protector is generally a thin sheet of vinyl or polyester while the pad and topper are intended to be thick, soft layers that supplement the mattress.
A mattress topper tends to be thick compared to pads and protectors. This is because the mattress topper can be compared to a small mattress.
Consider the mattress topper to be a thicker version of the mattress pad.
Difference 2: Fit
A mattress protector tends to be quite fitted because you dont want it to shift and expose the mattress should a child or adult have an accident in bed.
Only mattress protectors will entirely encase a mattress, such as when you want the mattress protector to prevent dust mites and allergens from getting into the bed.
Mattress pads tend to be fitted, too. They may take the form of a fitted sheet or have straps. Mattress toppers typically arent secured to the bed in any way. That isnt seen as necessary because theyre so thick.
Theyll generally be laid out on top of the bed and left there, held there by their own weight. However, you can remove it if you choose.
Difference 3: Intent
Mattress protectors are made to protect the mattress any mattress from messes. It is generally put on the mattress to prevent urine, vomit and other biological messes from seeping into the mattress.
Difference 4: Material
Difference 5: Degree of Difference
Difference 6: Price
Summary
Mattress Toppers Versus Mattress Protectors
Though the two terms sound similar, its important to understand that a mattress topper is not the same as a mattress protector.
A mattress protector is a thin layer of material that fits over your mattress. While it can add a thin layer of cushioning, that isnt its main purpose. Rather, it serves to prevent unwanted moisture, bacteria, and dust mites from entering your bed.
On the other hand, a mattress topper is a thick layer that adds both comfort and protection, allowing you to achieve the same level of protection as a mattress protector while also adding a layer of softness.
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The Best Hypoallergenic Pick
What We Didnt Like:
- Not as cool as other pads
The LEISURE TOWN Mattress Pad is antimicrobial and hypoallergenic. It uses down alternative filling, which feels similar to goose down without the poking feel of feathers or the risk of irritating those with feather allergies. In addition, it protects your mattress from dust mites and other irritants.
The LEISURE TOWN Mattress Pad is ultra soft. Made with 100 percent cotton, it provides superior comfort without overheating as much as other materials. Keep in mind that some users reported its not especially cooling either, though.
Although the LEISURE TOWN Mattress Pad is slightly water resistant , its not fully water resistant, as it doesnt have a membrane backing.
This product is machine washable and easy to maintain. It comes in a vacuum bag and should be spread out for a few days to fully expand. Alternatively, you can machine wash and tumble dry it to speed up the expansion process. LEISURE TOWN offers a money back guarantee, in case you arent fully satisfied.
Mattress Protector Vs Mattress Topper: Materials And Design
- Mattress toppers are made from latex, memory foam and other materials
- Mattress protectors are normally made with a water-resistant fabric
- You can buy cooling and organic versions of both
Both products are designed to fit neatly according to your bed size. Protectors have a snug fit and attach securely with elasticated straps or in the same way as a fitted sheet, to keep them from shifting around.
Toppers usually sit on top of the mattress with no attachments, although some do have straps. If youre worried about it slipping and sliding around, look for a mattress topper that has anti-slip coating. Or simply place a fitted sheet over the top to hold it in place.
The materials used to make each product varies. Most mattress protectors are made from fabrics such as organic cotton, bamboo-derived viscose or polyester, and have added waterproofing, and sometimes a thin layer of padding on top to add a little comfort.
Most bed toppers tend to use the same materials as mattresses, such as memory foam or latex, with many also boasting the same cooling tech such as graphite or gel-infused foam. Both products are often hypoallergenic and free from harmful toxins, although its still worth looking out for certification such as GOTS , GOLS or Oeko-Tex.
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Easy To Apply And Remove
Mattress pads are like bed sheets. Similar to a bed sheet, mattress pads are typically equipped with a stretch-knit skirt or anchor bands. This type of construction makes your mattress pad easy to install and allows for it to fit snugly around your mattress. Always make sure to check the dimensions of your mattress pad to ensure a quality fit. Importantly, mattress pads can be applied and removed without seeking any additional assistance.
Mattress Pad Vs Mattress Protector: What Is The Difference
Investing in accessories, such as a mattress pad or a mattress protector, increases comfort and keeps the mattress safe. Unfortunately, most people are unaware of the difference between these two mattress accessories. This leads them to seek a comparative analysis of mattress pad vs mattress protector.
Mattress pads make your bed more comfortable by adding a thin layer of padding to the mattress. On the other hand, Mattress protectors keep the mattress safe from damage caused by spills, stains, and general wear and tear. Read on to learn more about mattress pads and protectors to make an informed buying decision.
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