Top mattress or mattress pad: What’s the difference?
Choosing between a top mattress and a mattress pad can be confusing, as both are placed on your bed but serve different purposes. Understanding the difference can help you decide which is right for your needs.
What are the differences between a top mattress and a mattress pad?
A top mattress adds a layer of comfort to your bed, while a mattress pad helps protect the mattress or top mattress from dirt and wear. The table below compares their main purposes, benefits, and placement.
Top mattress | Mattress pad | |
Purpose | Adds a comfort layer to change the feel of your mattress | Helps protect the mattress or top mattress from dirt and wear |
Benefit | Improves comfort and offer material-specific features, such as cooling and breathability | Helps keep the sleeping surface cleaner and is easy to remove and wash |
Placement | On top of the mattress | Over the surface it’s intended to protect |
Can you use a mattress pad and a top mattress together?
“Yes, you can use a mattress pad and a top mattress together, and it is also our recommendation that you do. The top mattress adds a layer of comfort, while a suitable mattress pad helps protect the surface underneath and can be easily removed for washing.”
– Berna B. Larsen, Category Manager for mattresses, JYSK
How do sheets fit into your bed setup?
A top mattress adds comfort, while a mattress pad helps protect the sleeping surface. A fitted sheet can cover these layers and give your bed a neat, finished look. Choose sheets that fit the overall height of your mattress and bedding layers. For more guidance on how to choose the right sheets, check out our ultimate guide to sheets.
Learn more about top mattresses and mattress pads
Check out our full assortment of top mattresses and mattress pads. If you’re looking for more guidance before making any decisions, check out our ultimate guide to top mattresses.
