Purchasing a mattress is often an investment, and you want to protect that investment for as long as you can. Mattress pads do just that – they protect your mattress from getting dirty or stained and prevent it from wearing out too fast. Protective mattress covers come in a variety of styles and purposes so you can find the right fit for your bed and lifestyle.
We reviewed dozens of mattress pads to identify the best of the best. We looked at waterproof covers, memory foam gel pads, quilted pillow top covers, and even heated designs. To determine which of the mattress pads would make our best-of list, we focused on the material, design, purpose, durability, and usability of the varying types of mattress pads available.
We chose Utopia Bedding Quilted Fitted Mattress Pad as our favorite pick because it fits snug to your mattress, protecting it from dirt and dust, while still allowing air to pass through so you don’t overheat. The breathable material is also very easy to take care of.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Mattress Pads
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Top Pick | Utopia Bedding Quilted Fitted Mattress Pad | 4.5 |
| Runner Up | Hanna Kay Hypoallergenic Quilted Mattress Pad | 4.7 |
| Best for Budget | Linenspa Premium Smooth Fabric Mattress Protector | 4 |
| Best Waterproof Mattress Pad | SafeRest Premium Hypoallergenic Waterproof Mattress Protector | 4.3 |
| Best Memory Foam Mattress Pad | Linenspa Gel Infused Memory Foam Mattress Topper | 4.3 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Our Top Pick: Utopia Bedding Quilted Fitted Mattress Pad
For mattresses up to 16 inches deep, the Utopia Bedding Quilted Fitted Mattress Pad has an elastic stretch all the way around the skirt of the cover. This elastic ensures a secure fit to your mattress so your mattress pad won’t move around or bunch up while you’re sleeping. Rest easy on the breathable microfiber that tops the pad. It complements the polyester-fill material, which is hypoallergenic, keeping dust mites and allergens at bay.
This mattress pad is quilted, both for design and purpose. The diamond stitch creates a plush top that is soft and comfortable while maintaining an even distribution of filling. So not only are you comfortable, but your mattress pad will perform more consistently since the filling won’t be migrating to another part of the bed.
But the mattress pad is also easy to take care of. Just throw it in the washing machine on the gentle cycle to keep it clean and fresh. Whether you have a queen-sized mattress or need a cover for your child’s twin mattress, this mattress pad comes in a variety of sizes to suit your mattress needs.
Utopia Bedding Quilted Fitted Mattress Pad Key Features:
- Fits mattresses up to 16 inches deep
- Elastic stretch skirt with polyester filling
- Mattress pad has a vinyl back
- Quilted top is soft and cushy
- Machine washable and dryer-safe on low
Our Runner Up Pick: Hanna Kay Hypoallergenic Quilted Mattress Pad
Our runner up choice is Hanna Kay Hypoallergenic Quilted Mattress Pad as it has 40 percent more filling than the average mattress pad. The diamond stitching keeps the extra plush filling from moving around or gravitating to another area of the pad. You’ll remain cool while you’re sleeping due to the cotton and polyester blend, which allows for air to flow easily through the material. And though the mattress pad protects the mattress from dirt and dust, the material is hypoallergenic, keeping the dust and allergens away from you as well.
For mattresses with a thickness of up to 16 inches, this mattress cover fits snug via knitted sides. Easy to put on your bed, the cover stretches to fit, with deep pockets to tuck around the corners. And it’s also easy to take off and throw in the laundry. No special instructions are needed since this pad can withstand the higher settings on your washing machine and dryer. It also comes with a 10-year money-back guarantee.
Hanna Kay Hypoallergenic Quilted Mattress Pad Key Features:
- Fits mattresses up to 16 inches deep
- Diamond stitching for even cushion distribution
- Made from a polyester and cotton blend
- 10-year warranty
- 40 percent more filling than the average mattress pad
Best Budget Pick: Linenspa Premium Smooth Fabric Mattress Protector
Cheaper, but no less worthy, is Linenspa Premium Smooth Fabric Mattress Protector. It’s our best budget pick for mattress pads. This fitted mattress cover is waterproof with a polyurethane back that prevents liquid spills from hitting your mattress. Free from vinyl and any other crinkly material, the mattress pad is silent and soft so you won’t even know you are sleeping on a protected surface. The waterproof cover is durable and comes with a 10-year warranty.
Breathe easy on the pad’s ultra-thin hypoallergenic fabric. It keeps dust mites and other allergens away from you and your mattress. The cover fits mattresses up to 14 inches in thickness. But don’t worry about it slipping off or bunching up under you; the mattress cover stays secure on your bed with an elastic skirt that stretches all the way around. It’s also easy to take care of – just toss it in the washing machine, and dry it in the dryer on the lowest setting.
Linenspa Premium Smooth Fabric Mattress Protector Key Features:
- Hypoallergenic fabric with a polyurethane back
- Waterproof cover fits snug due to elastic skirt
- Fits mattresses up to 14 inches deep
- Machine washable and dryer-safe on low
- 10-year warranty
Best Waterproof Mattress Pad: SafeRest Premium Hypoallergenic Waterproof Mattress Protector
The best waterproof mattress pad we found is SafeRest Premium Hypoallergenic Waterproof Mattress Protector. Not only does it have a 10-year warranty, but it’s certified with the FDA as a medical device. This waterproof mattress cover is hypoallergenic cotton that creates a breathable and noiseless material so you can sleep well knowing you and your mattress are protected against fluids, dust mites, and bacteria. The waterproof barrier is free of vinyl, phthalates, and PVC, for a toxin-free sleep.
This waterproof mattress pad is designed to protect your mattress, but not change the feel of it. So no matter what type of mattress you have, the pad will conform to fit your mattress style. Thanks to the cotton surface, air still flows through the mattress cover so you don’t overheat while sleeping. The cover also stays put and doesn’t move around due to the fitted sheet elastic style, designed to fit mattresses up to 18 inches thick. And it’s just as easy to take care of as your regular sheets. Toss it in the washing machine, and dry it on the lowest setting in the dryer.
SafeRest Premium Hypoallergenic Waterproof Mattress Protector Key Features:
- 10-year warranty
- Fits mattresses up to 18 inches thick
- Registered as a medical device
- Cotton surface protects against allergens
- Quiet non-crinkly material
Best Memory Foam Mattress Pad: Linenspa Gel Infused Memory Foam Mattress Topper
When it comes to memory foam, we liked Linenspa Gel Infused Memory Foam Mattress Topper as our choice for the best memory foam mattress pad. Choose from two or three inches of plush foam, depending on your thickness preference. The memory foam will conform to your body as you sleep. Filled with gel beads, the foam pad helps regulate your body temperature by dissipating heat to keep you cool. The mattress pad is multifunctional since it also distributes your weight evenly across the mattress, which helps reduce pain at your pressure points.
The memory foam mattress topper sits directly on top of your existing mattress, adding a layer of cushion. Whether you need to liven up your old mattress or are just interested in more support from your current mattress, the memory foam with gel beads offers a way to do that. But rest easy, the polyurethane in the foam has been certified safe for quality standards, and the mattress pad even comes with a 3-year warranty. The memory foam topper can also help prolong the life of your mattress by protecting the surface from faster wear and tear.
Linenspa Gel Infused Memory Foam Mattress Topper Key Features:
- Mattress pad has a 3-year warranty
- Memory foam evenly distributes weight
- Cool gel filling regulates the temperature of the pad
- Comes in a variety of sizes
- Memory foam is certified safe
Who Should Buy a Mattress Pad
Mattress pads are a necessity for anyone who sleeps on a mattress. Even if you don’t eat or drink in bed, a mattress pad protects your mattress from things like sweat, dirt, dust, and bacteria. Finding the right cover can help extend the life of your mattress. And extending the life of what is an expensive item is always a good idea.
But mattress pads have more to offer than just protecting your mattress. They can spruce up an old mattress by providing extra cushion and support. Combine different mattress covers to perform multiple functions – like adding a waterproof cover on top of memory foam. A waterproof cover will prevent liquid spills from reaching your mattress, while memory foam pads help keep you cool while you’re sleeping.
So if you want to protect your existing mattress or are interested in sleeping on a different type of surface, check out our selection of the best mattress pads.
Important Features to Consider
A mattress pad should have a few important features. Here’s what to consider when selecting a mattress pad:
- Type, style, and preference. First, consider why you want or need a mattress pad for your bed. Is your current one simply uncomfortable or are the springs jutting into your backbone? Perhaps you just got a new puppy and are concerned about nighttime accidents on your bed. These questions and your answers will determine the type of mattress cover you should purchase. Consider a plush mattress topper for that first scenario and a waterproof mattress pad for the second. Choose memory foam with gel beads to keep you cool, a thin quilted mattress pad to protect your mattress and you from allergens, or combine a waterproof mattress cover with memory foam for extra support and protection.
- Functionality and purpose. A big part of your decision depends on what type and style mattress cover you need. Once you have narrowed that down, consider what you want out of a mattress pad in order to achieve your desired results. If you’re searching for a mattress cover that will protect your mattress from accidental spills, then knowing what traits to look for in the best waterproof mattress cover is necessary. Adding life to your old mattress requires checking out quilted versus plush versus memory foam mattress pads. Pay attention to varying thickness, texture, and firmness, in order to hone in on what you want. A mattress pad should fit to the mattress snug and not move around while you sleep.
- Maintenance and cleaning. No one wants a mattress pad that will be just another investment on top of an already large investment. Taking care of a mattress pad should be easy. After all, it’s designed to protect your mattress – the thing that’s hard to maintain. Most mattress pads are machine washable. Some are even safe in your dryer. Memory foam mattress pads can be more difficult to care for since they can’t be thrown in the laundry. Which type of mattress cover you choose will depend on how much work you want to put into caring for it.
- Price and durability. A mattress is a big purchase for most people. Protecting it should be a priority. Mattress covers come in a range of prices, depending on the type you are looking for. A simple protective cover will be cheaper than a thick memory foam gel pad. Of course your mattress pad should be durable. It’s there to protect your already large purchase from wearing down too fast. And you don’t want to have to go through mattress pad after mattress pad. It should be able to withstand regular washings, and have a long life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a mattress pad and what does it do?
A mattress pad or cover typically resembles the bottom fitted sheet you put on your bed. Though they come in a number of types and styles, they stretch to fit securely to your mattress. A mattress topper is something that is placed on top of your mattress, but does not attach to your mattress in any way. Both styles aim to protect your mattress, but also give you other options for comfort and support.
The main purpose of a mattress pad is to keep your mattress clean and help you sleep better by holding common allergens at bay. Other functions of a mattress cover – depending on the type you select – include adding extra cushion or padding to your mattress, enhancing joint support to reduce aches and pains, and preventing liquid spills from soiling or staining your mattress.
What is the difference between a mattress topper and a mattress pad?
The biggest difference between a mattress pad and topper is mostly how it fits on your bed. A mattress pad is designed similar to a fitted sheet, while a mattress topper lies on top of your mattress. Mattress pads can be thin, quilted, plush, waterproof, heated, hypoallergenic, or cooling. Mattress toppers also have a wide range of styles and types, such as memory foam, plush, quilted, firm, cooling, wool, and down feather. Both a mattress pad and topper aim to enhance your sleep by creating a more suitable environment based on your preferences.
Can you wash a mattress pad?
Most mattress pads are machine washable, but pay attention to the manufacturer’s directions for how to care for your mattress pad. Some covers can be washed on the regular cycle, but some may need the gentle cycle. Likewise, some mattress pads can be dried on the lowest setting on your dryer, while others have to be line-dried.
What is the thickest mattress pad?
Mattress pads are available anywhere from two to six inches thick, though usually anything over four inches is simply considered a mattress. Choosing the right thickness depends on what you’re looking for. If you are wanting to rejuvenate your old mattress, a thicker pad may be warranted. If you are needing to firm up a soft mattress, a thinner mattress pad will often work better than a thicker, plusher one. And sometimes, combining a couple of different mattress covers can create just the right sleeping arrangement for you and your needs.
Other Mattress Pads We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other mattress pads. Even though they didn’t make our five best mattress pads list, they’re the best of the rest, and still great options for protecting your mattress. The information you need to compare each one is included with the listing.
Cooling Mattress Pads
Leisure Town Mattress Pad Cooling Cotton Top
The Leisure Town Mattress Pad Cooling Cotton Top has HNN cooling technology to increase the airflow in the mattress pad to help keep you cool while sleeping. Breathable and plush, this mattress cover is filled with an alternative down.
Key Features:
- Fits mattresses up to 21 inches deep
- Machine washable and dryer-safe on low
- 300 thread count combed cotton material
Cost: $50
Lucid 2-inch 5-zone Gel Memory Foam Mattress Topper
The Lucid 2-inch 5-zone Memory Foam Mattress Topper has five different zones filled with a cooling gel, which improves sleep and comfort, and helps alleviate pressure on your joints. The memory foam also helps regulate body temperature.
Key Features:
- Mattress topper is two inches thick
- 3-year warranty
- Available in an array of sizes, and a lavender scent
Cost: $57
Milemont Gel Memory Foam Mattress Topper
The Milemont Gel Memory Foam Mattress Topper is two inches of gel beads that regulate your body temperature to keep you cool while sleeping. The memory foam pad cushions your pressure points for a better night’s sleep.
Key Features:
- Available in a variety of sizes
- Distributes weight evenly
- Memory foam has a breathable design
Cost: $75
Oaskys Mattress Pad Cooling Cotton Pillow Top
The Oaskys Mattress Pad Cooling Cotton Pillow Top keeps you cool while you sleep, and protects you from common allergens. This pillow top pad is made from breathable 300 thread count combed cotton, and is machine washable and dryer-safe on low.
Key Features:
- Alternative hypoallergenic down filling
- Comes in a variety of sizes to properly fit your bed
- Square-quilted design to maintain even comfort
Cost: $40
Sleep Innovations Gel Memory Foam 4-inch Mattress Topper
The Sleep Innovations Gel Memory Foam Mattress Topper has two inches of gel memory foam, with another two inches of a quilted pillow top. This topper helps you remain cool while sleeping, and is machine washable.
Key Features:
- Made in the USA
- 10-year warranty
- Laboratory certified safe
Cost: $100
Pillow Top Mattress Pads
Amazon Basics Hypoallergenic Quilted Mattress Topper
The Amazon Basics Hypoallergenic Quilted Mattress Topper is a lightweight, breathable material made from a polyester and cotton blend. It’s certified to meet high safety standards.
Key Features:
- Made from a blend of 20 percent cotton and 80 percent polyester
- Fits beds up to 18 inches thick
- Machine washable and dryer safe
Cost: $26
Bedsure Mattress Pad Ultra Soft Quilted Mattress Protector
The Bedsure Mattress Pad Ultra Soft Quilted Mattress Protector has three zones of quilted design to enhance comfort. It is made with 100 percent microfiber for durability.
Key Features:
- Fits beds up to 18 inches deep
- Machine washable
- Mattress cover skirt is elasticized for a snug fit
Cost: $32
Emonia Mattress Pad Pillow Top
The Emonia Mattress Pad Pillow Top is filled with soft microfiber to ensure maximum comfort. The surface of the cover is made with a thread count of 300.
Key Features:
- Box-stitch design keeps the filling from moving around
- Fits mattresses up to 18 inches thick
- Mattress skirt stays tight with elastic stretch all the way around
Cost: $40
Exceptional Sheets Pillowtop Mattress Pad with Fitted Skirt
The Exceptional Sheets Pillowtop Mattress Pad with Fitted Skirt has an extra plush top that’s filled with an alternative down. The hypoallergenic polyester cover is 160 thread count cotton and is certified safe.
Key Features:
- Fits mattresses up to 18 inches deep
- Money-back guarantee
- Fitted skirt to keep the pad tight to the bed
Cost: $94
Hospitology Products Microfiber Quilted Mattress Pad and Topper
The Hospitology Products Microfiber Quilted Mattress Pad and Topper is an overstuffed pillow top cover that enhances comfort while you sleep. Made with a goose down alternative filling, the cover has square stitching to keep the filling in place.
Key Features:
- Mattress pad fits mattresses up to 18 inches thick
- Machine washable and dryer-safe on low
- Microfiber and polyester fabric cover
Cost: $53
Waterproof Mattress Pads
Air Expect Waterproof Mattress Protector
The Air Expect Waterproof Mattress Protector is made from 100 percent organic cotton, with a waterproof layer that is free from vinyl, phthalates, and PVC. Soft and quiet, the mattress cover is breathable.
Key Features:
- Hypoallergenic fabric
- Fits beds up to 18 inches deep
- Machine washable and dryer safe
Cost: $26
Tastelife Waterproof Mattress Pad
The Tastelife Waterproof Mattress Pad has been certified as safe from toxins. It has a waterproof barrier that is soft and quiet.
Key Features:
- Made from breathable cotton
- Machine washable
- Fits mattresses up to 18 inches deep
Cost: $25
Ultra Block Ultra Plush Waterproof Mattress Protector
The Ultra Block Ultra Plush Waterproof Mattress Protector protects your mattress against liquid spills while protecting you from allergens. The waterproof backing is free from toxic chemicals and features a breathable material.
Key Features:
- Fits mattresses up to 18 inches thick
- Machine washable
- Mattress skirt is elasticized for a tighter fit
Cost: $40
Utopia Bedding Bamboo Waterproof Mattress Protector
The Utopia Bedding Bamboo Waterproof Mattress Protector is made from a bamboo blend that helps keep you cool while you’re sleeping. The pad is also waterproof, thanks to the polyurethane backing, but it’s quiet to sleep on.
Key Features:
- Mattress protector fits beds up to 17 inches thick
- Machine washable and dryer-safe on low
- Deep elastic pockets create a snug fit
Cost: $22
Other Mattress Pads
D&G The Duck and Goose Company Classic Thick Mattress Topper
The Duck and Goose Company Classic Thick Mattress Topper is filled with an alternative down fiber to improve your sleep and comfort. The soft, breathable material offers two inches of microfiber filling for a thicker cushion.
Key Features:
- Fits mattresses up to 22 inches deep
- Machine washable and dryer-safe on low
- Square-stitch design keeps the filling from moving around
Cost: $70
Exceptional Sheets Rayon Derived Bamboo Mattress Pad with Fitted Skirt
The Exceptional Sheets Rayon Derived Bamboo Mattress Pad with Fitted Skirt is made with rayon from bamboo and filled with a hypoallergenic down alternative. The mattress pad fits beds up to 18 inches deep.
Key Features:
- Mattress skirt is made from spandex for a snug fit
- Money-back guarantee
- 160 thread count with box stitch
Cost: $110
The Grand Mattress Pad Cover Fitted
The Grand Mattress Pad Cover fits over your mattress securely so it doesn’t move around. It’s made from a polyester and cotton blend and outfitted with a breathable hypoallergenic cover.
Key Features:
- Mattress cover fits mattresses up to 18 inches deep
- Deep corner pockets for a snug fit
- Machine washable and dryer-safe on low
Cost: $26
Mastertex Mattress Pad Topper Down Alternative Cover
The Mastertex Mattress Pad Topper Down Alternative Cover is made from 100 percent cotton, with an alternative down filling. It’s machine washable and safe in the dryer on the lowest setting.
Key Features:
- 300 thread count cotton
- Hypoallergenic material
- Fits mattresses up to 16 inches thick
Cost: $40
Newpoint Home Deluxe Damask Stripe Mattress Pad
The Newpoint Home Deluxe Damask Stripe Mattress Pad has a hypoallergenic polyester filling. The mattress cover is made from 100 percent cotton.
Key Features:
- 250 thread count cotton
- Damask stripe stitching
- Fits mattresses up to 22 inches thick
Cost: $32
The Sunbeam Heated Mattress Pad has 10 settings with a 10-hour automatic shut-off. Control each side of the mattress pad separately to achieve different temperatures.
Key Features:
- Quilted cover is made with 100 percent 200 thread count cotton
- Machine washable and dryer safe
- Water-resistant, and fits mattresses up to 19 inches deep
Cost: $62
