Not sure how to choose between a mattress pad or a mattress topper? Understand the benefits of each to help you sleep more comfortably and protect the investment you've made in your mattress.

You may have heard the stat that you spend one-third of your life in bed. So, you understandably (and undoubtedly) want to ensure you're as comfortable as possible when sleeping, and ensure you're protecting the investment you made in your good quality mattress. Two solutions: Consider adding a mattress pad or mattress topper to your bed.

Both mattress pads and mattress toppers add extra protection and comfort to your mattress, but they serve different purposes. Mattress pads (also called mattress protectors) protect against stains, spills, little accidents from kids or pets, and more, while mattress toppers make you more comfortable for a better sleep experience.

Mattress Pad vs. Mattress Topper: Which One Should You Choose?

Much like your ideal room temperature and bed firmness will differ, deciding between a mattress pad or a mattress topper (or using both) will be unique to you.

Mattress pads help protect against stains and keep your bed clean and free of smells. Certain options include other safeguards, like protection from allergens such as bed bugs, dust mites, pollen and dander.

"You can sleep with peace of mind knowing your mattress is protected with a mattress pad," says Sleep Number bedding expert Jennifer Kalin. "This protective barrier makes it easier to clean up accidents and keep your mattress sanitary and fresh. You can't wash a mattress, but you can wash a mattress pad."

Mattress toppers can change the feeling of how you sleep — without the need to buy an entirely new mattress. Mattress toppers come in memory foam for top of mattress support, as well as latex, down and polyester blends.

They provide additional softness, pressure relief and plush support. Some toppers also feature temperature regulation technology, which is a perfect solution for couples where one partner sleeps hot and the other sleeps cold.

Pick a mattress pad to protect your mattress investment, and select a mattress topper that fits your sleep style. For example, the True Temp™ mattress layer features technology to move heat and humidity away and offers a silky-soft knit cover that conforms to your body for a relaxing sleep.

Mattress Topper

A mattress topper adds extra protection and comfort to your mattress and can change the feeling of how you sleep — without the need to buy an entirely new mattress. It provides additional softness, pressure relief and plush support. Some toppers also feature temperature regulation technology.

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Benefits of a Mattress Topper or Pad

• Added comfort

From cozy cushioning to temperature control, a mattress topper can add extra comfort to any bed. What’s preventing you from getting your best sleep? Choose the right topper to meet your specific needs for added comfort and restful Zzzs.

• Extra Support

Some mattress toppers are made of memory foam or other resilient materials designed to contour to your body and provide support and pressure relief.

• Cost-effective

If the feel of your bed is not quite right, a mattress topper is an economical option to help improve its comfort at a fraction of the price of a new mattress.