NapLab is supported by readers. When you buy with our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more.

Mattress Pad vs. Mattress Protector

Derek Hales

Written by: Derek Hales

Published On:

If your looking to protect your mattress, chances are you will want an extra layer between the sheets and the mattress itself. But what is best? This comparison is going to give you an inside look at mattress pads vs. mattress protectors.

What are the differences and which one is right for you? Let’s find out now.

mattress pad close up
Mattress Protector

Mattress Pad

Pros

  • Sometimes waterproof & provides basic protection
  • Can enhance the feel of a mattress

Cons

  • Thinner profile (compared to mattress topper)
  • Does not drastically change the feel; can only add softness

Mattress Protector

Pros

  • Protects the mattress from stains, spills, or bed bugs
  • Machine washable and waterproof

Cons

  • Does not add comfort, only protection
  • Cheap protectors can be noisy
  • May limit cooling performance

Summary

Mattress pad vs. mattress protector—When deciding between a mattress pad and a mattress protector, it is best to consider the role you’re trying to fill.

A mattress pad adds a little softness and comfort and a basic level of protection. Not all mattress pads are waterproof, but waterproof pads are a nice middle ground between a pad and a protector.

A mattress protector is typically made with protection at the forefront of design. Protectors are essentially always waterproof and protect from spills, debris, and even bed bugs. A 6-sided mattress protector provides the ultimate level of security for your mattress.

In This Guide
The Differences | What is a mattress pad? | What is a mattress protector? | Which is Right For Me? | FAQ

Mattress Pad vs. Mattress Protector: What are the differences?

FactorMattress PadMattress Protector
Thickness1-2″ thickUltra thin
PurposeProtection + ComfortProtection Only
SupportNo supportNo support
WaterproofRarelyUsually
FirmnessAdds softnessDoes Not Effect Firmness
Price$-$$$$-$$

What is a mattress pad?

A mattress pad is a relatively thin layer of material (usually 2″ thick or less) with a top layer, 4 sides, and elastic corners that fit on the mattress much like a fitted sheet.

The main purpose of a mattress pad is to add softness and comfort to your mattress.

mattress pad close up
Serta Mattress Pad

Types of Mattress Pads

There are a number of different types of mattress pads. Material, thickness, and design can all play a role in the feel and firmness of a mattress pad.

Here are some of the most popular types of mattress pads.

#1. Quilted Mattress Pads

Quilted mattress pads have a plush softness to them. They are commonly enhanced with a thicker material that provides loft and softness to the pad. Stitching placed evenly across the mattress pad holds the material in place.

#2. Waterproof Mattress Pads

A waterproof mattress pad has the main goal of protection, unlike a quilted mattress pad, which has the main goal of softness. A waterproof mattress pad prevents liquids from penetrating through the pad and damaging the mattress.

This kind of mattress pad toes the line between pad and protector since it can effectively protect the mattress.

#3. Cooling Mattress Pads

Cooling mattress pads are enhanced with cooling gel, cooling fibers, infused copper, or some other type of cooling technology.

These different approaches all have a similar end goal—to draw heat away from sleepers as they rest and reduce the overall body temperature.

Active Cooling Mattress Pads

In addition, there are also active cooling mattress pads. These systems use water or fans to actively pull heat away from the mattress pad and from sleepers. Eight Sleep’s Pod 3 is arguably the best active cooling mattress pad on the market, followed by the ChiliSleep.

#4. Natural Mattress Pads

Natural mattress pads use natural materials, like organic cotton, latex, or wool to make up the majority of the mattress pad layers.

This type of mattress pad may also be quilted and depending on the exact material, it may also have cooling properties.

With these benefits, natural mattress pads also typically have a higher price tag as well.

What is a mattress protector?

A mattress protector is a thin fitted sheet that stretches over the mattress and is designed to provide protection to the mattress below. It doesn’t add softness or any form of comfort—its job is purely for protection only.

Mattress protectors can be made from a range of materials including cotton, polyester, or even vinyl. The material will help determine how well the mattress will be protected.

One word of caution: be wary of vinyl protectors. This material is waterproof and very protective, but can also cause heat build-up and affect the overall performance of the mattress.

Types of Mattress Protectors

Mattress protectors can be 1-sided (like a protective mat), 5-sided (like a fitted sheet), or 6-sided (a full zippered encasement).

#1. Encasement (6-sided)

With a mattress encasement, a zipper secures the protector onto the mattress and prevents shifting. Encasements are good choices to protect from bed bugs or if you don’t plan on washing frequently.

#2. Fitted Protector (5-sided)

A fitted mattress protector fits snugs over the mattress, much like a fitted sheet. Elastic in the corners of the protector holds the protector flush to the surface of the mattress.

5-sided mattress protectors are the most common and best choice for most sleepers.

#3. Top Protector (1-sided)

A top mattress protector is the simplest kind of protector, as it just covers the top of the mattress. There is no protector for the sides, but that also helps to keep the cost down for this kind of protector.

Top protectors are especially useful for potty-training children since the protector can easily be removed from the mattress and washed.

Is a mattress pad or mattress protector right for you?

I would recommend a mattress pad if you want:

  • A little softness added to the mattress
  • A plusher feel than what your current mattress offers
  • Optional enhanced cooling

I would recommend a mattress protector if you want:

  • Maximum mattress protection
  • Optional 6-sided protection to protect from bedbugs, etc.
  • A solution for incontinence or extra protection for kids or pets

FAQs

How is a mattress pad different from a mattress protector?

A mattress pad is thicker than a mattress protector. A mattress protector is designed to ONLY protect while a mattress pad can protect and enhance comfort as well.

What is a mattress topper?

A mattress topper is thicker than both mattress pads and mattress protectors (typically 2-4″). They can drastically change the feel or firmness of a mattress. But most mattress toppers are not waterproof.

To protect the mattress AND change the feel, you can combine a mattress topper with a waterproof mattress protector. Then add bedding as usual.

What goes on first, mattress pad or protector?

If you have both a pad and protector, the protector would go on first and the mattress pad would go above that. Next, add fitted sheets and other bedding as you usually would.

Is it okay to sleep without a mattress protector?

Yes. A mattress protector is not required, but without one, your mattress is more likely to be stained or damaged. Adding a mattress protector helps to protect your investment, protect from bed bugs (encasements only), and simplify cleaning as well.

About Derek Hales

Derek Hales

Derek Hales is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of NapLab.com. He has been featured in Fast Company, Reader's Digest, Business Insider, Realtor.com, Huffington Post, Washington Post, AskMen, and She Knows. Derek has personally tested over 320+ mattresses and hundreds of pillows, sheets, beds, and other sleep products.