Mattress pads and mattress toppers ultimately share the same goal: to protect your mattress and provide comfort while you sleep. However, when it comes to choosing between the two, there are reasons you may want to opt for one over the other.

Maybe you’re looking to firm up a soft mattress or perhaps looking to do the exact opposite. Maybe you love your bed just the way it is and simply wish to keep your mattress free from general wear and tear. Whatever boat you’re in, there are several things to consider when deciding whether a pad or topper is the best choice for you.

The primary purpose of mattress pads is to provide a protective layer between your mattress and the outside world. Although some toppers serve to provide a layer of comfort as well, most of them are less than an inch thick, so you won't see a drastic change in how your mattress feels. The most common materials used for mattress pads are cotton, synthetics, feather, wool, latex and memory foam. The three main attachment methods are anchor straps, fitted elastic and wrapped elastic.

As for the cost of mattress pads, it depends on how much comfort you’re looking to add and what material the pad is made of. Low-budget cotton pads start at around $30 while higher-end memory foam models can get up to $2,000.

A lot of cotton mattress pads and some wool mattress pads are machine washable, making them easy to keep clean on a regular basis. Given their attachment capabilities, mattress pads stay in place while you sleep, which is particularly beneficial for fidgety sleepers. Last but not least, most mattress pads generally are less expensive than toppers.

If you’re experiencing major issues with the comfort level of your mattress, a mattress pad probably won’t save the day. Additionally, the lightweight nature of some mattress pads make them less durable and more susceptible to general wear and tear; this may affect the lifespan of your pad, causing you to replace it more frequently than a topper.

Sealy Luxury 100% Cotton Fitted Mattress Pad: available at Amazon 

This is a great choice for those looking to add a layer of comfort to their mattress without changing the entire feel of their bed. Featuring 300-thread-count cotton, this cozy cotton option is not only on the more affordable end of the spectrum, but it’s also easy to wash and contains hypoallergenic materials.

Hanna Kay Hypoallergenic Quilted Stretch-To-Fit Mattress Pad: available at Amazon 

Simple and to the point, this pad is best for those who are only looking to add a layer of protection without altering the feel of their mattress. Known for its tight and secure fit, you won’t have any issues with it slipping around throughout the night. Its material is a blend of cotton and polyester and is hypoallergenic.

The Grand Quilted Mattress Pad: available at Amazon 

This is a reasonably priced option that meets the needs of most consumers and comes in all sizes, including daybeds and California kings. This very affordable pad boasts hypoallergenic material, which is great for anyone who struggles with allergies or sensitive skin. For added convenience, its lightweight and airy fabric is machine washable.

While mattress toppers carry the inherent function of protecting your mattress, their primary purpose extends a bit further. When it comes to getting a quality night's sleep, if your mattress isn't doing the trick, this is where toppers come in.

As for your preferred level of firmness, there are several materials to choose from that directly cater to this, including egg-crate foam, memory foam, gel, latex, polyester and/or cotton, down and feather. A lot of high-quality memory foam toppers are versatile, finding that happy medium for both firm and soft mattress fans. If you're seeking something ultrasoft, check out the DreamFoam Bedding 2-Inch Gel Swirl Memory Foam Mattress Topper.

Much like mattress pads, the price for mattress toppers varies greatly depending on size, material and thickness. The more affordable egg-crate toppers can start as low as $15 with gel toppers getting up to $800.

Mattress toppers can alter the entire feel of your bed, eliminating the need to get a whole new mattress, which can get costly. A lot of foam options cater to partners who have different sleep patterns, making movement throughout the night less troublesome.

More durable toppers are difficult to clean and are not machine washable. Additionally, some mattress toppers require frequent adjustment as they tend to slide around. Certain toppers made of latex, memory foam and polyester can run hot.

Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR Topper Supreme: available at Amazon 

What you need to know: A higher-quality option, it provides superior value and guaranteed relief to those seeking to maximize their level of sleep comfort.

What you'll love: It comes with a washable cover. Made with 3-inch memory foam, its versatile, medium-firm quality makes it perfect for partners of all sleep preferences.

Lucid 3-Inch Gel Memory Foam Mattress Topper: available at Amazon 

What you need to know: This prime budget-friendly choice provides optimal comfort for those seeking proper temperature control throughout the night.

What you'll love: Many users have found this lightweight, airy topper to drastically upgrade their uncomfortable mattresses. It's been reported to stay in one place, making it better for those who are more active in their sleep.

Sleep Innovations 4-Inch Dual Layer Gel Memory Foam Mattress Topper: available at Amazon 

This topper is highly regarded for meeting the needs of all kinds of sleepers, making it ideal for partners with different sleep patterns. Handpicked for its versatility, you’ll find 4 inches of both down alternative and memory foam layers. The lack of texture makes this one a great choice for those with sensitive skin.

There’s no clear-cut victor in the battle between mattress toppers and mattress pads. If you’re in the fortunate position of having a bed you already love, a quality mattress pad that protects your mattress from stains and spills is all you need. If this is you, chances are you already spent enough money on your mattress itself, so there’s really no reason to spend more money on something you don’t really need.

On the flip side, if you’re suffering from countless sleepless nights, a mattress topper is likely your golden ticket. Maybe you were doing just fine until you had to start sharing a bed with a partner. Whatever the case may be, the quality and quantity of your sleep matters greatly. For the sake of your health, a high-quality mattress topper is a worthwhile investment.

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Kat Noland is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.

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