Updated at: 16-01-2023 - By: Jane

We could go on and on about the various types of padding and protection available. There are a lot of product labels out there, and many people don’t understand what they signify.

“What is a mattress protector?” is one of the most commonly asked questions, and Casper’s sleep specialists are here to answer it. in addition to, “what is a mattress pad?” What’s the difference between a mattress protector and a mattress pad? The purpose of a mattress pad is to provide additional comfort, but the purpose of a mattress protector is to keep your mattress safe from damage.

Each thing has a place in your bedroom, whether it’s a soft comforter or a protective barrier. Here, we discuss the two main kinds of mattress accessories in greater detail, so you’ll know exactly where it is.

Take care of your mattress so that it can survive for many years to come.

What is a Mattress Pad?

When it comes to mattress pads, there is a wide choice of goods that can be used to offer additional support and comfort to your bed.

These mattresses pads are often placed on top of the mattress, before any further padding or bedding is added. A quilted cloth liner holds the “padding” material for most. Mattress pads come in a variety of forms and sizes since everyone wants a different level of “plushness” in their sleep.

So, here are some various mattress pad materials and the advantages they have over one other:

  • Cotton – An all-natural, hypoallergenic fabric that can be washed in a machine and is also breathable. If you prefer a softer, more comfortable mattress, a cotton mattress pad is an excellent choice. Mattresses, on the other hand, are more vulnerable to wear and tear.
  • Wool – Wool pads are thinner and softer than other natural options, but they are also more expensive. The antibacterial characteristics aid in the regulation of the body temperature.
  • Down – Duck or goose down is the best mattress pad because of its luscious under-feathers. Aside from being pricey and stain-resistant, they keep the sleepers warm.
  • Polyester or rayon – Stains, body weight pressure, and allergies have no effect on these synthetic fiber pads, making them an excellent choice for heavy use. Machine washability is important to look out for, as some are dry-clean-only.
  • Memory foam – In terms of firmness and comfort, memory foam is the clear winner. By conforming to your shape, the polyurethane material helps to ease joint discomfort as you sleep.
  • Latex – Antimicrobial and firm, latex mattress pads provide additional structure and support. Certain sleepers, however, may be bothered by the rubber scent and the increased heat retention.

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What Does a Mattress Pad Do?

It is more accurate to ask, “What does not a mattress pad do?” In the world of bedding, mattress pads are a jack of all crafts. In terms of advantages, they can include the following:

  • Increased usefulness of the mattress.
  • Anti-allergy and antibacterial properties are included.
  • Additional assistance and comfort.
  • Regulating the temperature of a space.
  • Airflow is a term used to describe how easily someone can breathe.

This phrase is used interchangeably with the terms mattress pad, topper, and cushion. There are several minor differences between the two.

A mattress pad, on the other hand, is often thicker and less supportive than a mattress topper. Adding a thicker topper or cushion to your mattress raises the overall height of your bed. At Casper, we’ve taken the best of both worlds and put them together. Plush support, breathability, and mattress protection are all provided by our latex foam mattress topper.

How to Choose a Mattress Pad

Mattress pads come in a wide variety of materials, including everything from organic cotton to memory foam. So where do you even begin, you ask yourself?

Make a list of the things that matter most to you and your partner when it comes to sleep. Do you get hot and bothered when you sleep? Dust mites are an enemy of mine. Is it tough to get a good night’s sleep in your current position? You’ll be able to choose a pad material based on your sleep concerns if you’ve ranked them.

Top considerations for mattress pad buyers include:

  • Physical support – A little extra cushion or structure is required for painful joints and muscles. Foam and synthetic mattress pads are typically more effective in reducing the stress on the body than natural materials.
  • Allergens or bacteria – You’re sneezing and itch all night long? Look for hypoallergenic or antibacterial labels on the pads you purchase. Nonporous construction will protect you from dust mites, allergies, and pathogens.
  • Temperature and breathability – Cotton and wool, for example, naturally regulate body temperature. “Airflow” and “cooling” should be included in any synthetic options.
  • Price – An expensive down mattress pad comes with a high dry cleaning expense. Make sure to take into account the cost of the mattress pad as well as the cost of cleaning it. Synthetic materials are typically less expensive than natural ones.

What is a Mattress Protector?

Children playing barefoot. Puppies that are too enthusiastic. That glass of Cabernet on a weekday evening. Occasionally, “dangers” appear in your bed… and those threats develop into unfortunate mishaps, as well.

There are mattress coverings or protectors that can save your mattress from being ruined by accidental spills and messes (and more). Your sheets and any mattress pad or topper are separated by these barriers. To avoid having to deep clean or, even worse, replace your mattress too soon, you should use a fitted sheet to catch spills.

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Mattress protectors come in a variety of sizes and levels of protection.

  • Encasement – With these zippered mattress coverings, you can rest easy knowing that your mattress is completely protected from the outside world.
  • Fitted – This design fits over beds like a fitted sheet, as the name implies. A fitted mattress cover protects the mattress from most stains and human contact despite the small amount of exposure on the bottom.
  • Anchor – Only the mattress’s top layer is protected by anchor protectors, which use elastic bands for security. Generally, they don’t work as deterrents.

Casper prefers a mattress protector with a fitted design because it provides the best of both worlds: coverage and flexibility. Mattresses up to 16 inches tall can be used with our cover, whether it’s a California King or Twin.

Mattress covers are also available in a variety of materials. A look at some of the most popular foundation materials, from organic natural fibers to synthetic blends:

  • Polyurethane – We utilize it in our Waterproof Mattress Protector because it is breathable, waterproof, and bug-proof. The combination of this material and a natural fiber creates a strong barrier.
  • Polyester – In most mattress coverings, polyester is a common waterproofing substance. It’s important to check the cover’s feel and noise level to make sure they’re right for your preferences before purchasing. For the right combination of protection, comfort, and durability, our Breathable Mattress Protector is made from polyester, tencel, and spandex.
  • Cotton – Full-cotton protectors don’t completely prevent stains, but they’re usually quite inexpensive and pleasant.
  • Vinyl – Some mattress protectors use vinyl to defend against bed bugs, dust mites, and other unpleasant critters, despite the fact that it is a rubbery material.
  • Spandex – Fitted or stretchable mattress coverings are made of spandex, which allows them to conform to the exact dimensions of your bed.

How do you clean a mattress protector without damaging its structure? Make sure you read the label! Taking special care of your polyester or cotton protector is a must, since each material has its own specific needs.

What Does a Mattress Protector Do?

There are other bed intruders besides stains. A mattress protector can help keep your bed clean and keep you healthy while you sleep by preventing pests and dust mites from getting into your mattress.

Mattress covers can block: depending on its material and extent of coverage.

  • Discoloration caused by a liquid.
  • Dust mites, to be precise.
  • Bacteria.
  • Body fluids and cellular debris.
  • Growth of fungi or molds.
  • Allergens.
  • Dirt that covers the entire surface.
  • Mattresses begin to wear out over time.

You and your mattress are protected with mattress protectors. Mattress protectors are a must-have for any bed, regardless of your sleep habits or lifestyle.

Mattress Pad vs. Mattress Cover—The Best of Both Worlds

Are you still contemplating the difference between a mattress cover and a mattress pad? Stop, please! Apples and oranges are not the same.

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There is a place for both mattress accessories in your bed. To maximize your sleep, hygiene, and mattress shelf life, they’re an incomparable pair. Let’s take a look at the primary differences between the two products:

Mattress Pad 

  • Normally, they’re thicker (up to one inch).
  • Strengthens you physically.
  • Increases the height of the mattress.
  • Mattress sagging is prevented.

Mattress Protector 

  • Typically, they’re a little thinner.
  • A barrier that is both watertight and spill-proof is provided.
  • Anti-bacterial and critter barrier.
  • Can aid in the removal of sweat from the body.

However, there are some sleep advantages that are shared by both products:

  • Regulating the temperature of a space.
  • Prophylaxis against allergic reactions.

Pads are generally better for your sleep, while mattress protectors are better for your health and the quality of your mattress. Together, they make a winning team, as well as a good night’s sleep.

Casper for The Sleep Support You Deserve

You can make your bed look like a five-star hotel room with our high-quality mattresses and pillows. From cooling gel mattresses to soft down pillows, our bedroom items are made to match any mattress size and type of sleeper.

Check out our selection of mattress protectors and pads right away so you can rest comfortably at night.

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