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.

A quality mattress topper also offers noticeable sleep results. User JNJ7546 says, “I am always hot and this helps keep me cool throughout the night."

How To Care For Your Mattress Pad Or Mattress Topper

Caring for a mattress pad is a breeze: Simply use your home washing machine and follow the instructions on the mattress pad package or label.

When it comes to your mattress topper, it is a bit more complicated — but still manageable. Mattress toppers are bulkier, so they can't fit in a washing machine.

Instead, you can use equal parts of cool water and vinegar to spot clean stains as soon as possible, and then let it air dry. If that doesn't work, try a combination of water and baking soda to treat stains. You can also sprinkle baking soda on the mattress topper to reduce smells. Vacuum your mattress topper with a hose attachment to remove dust and debris.

"Always look for mattress toppers with anchor bands. These are elastic straps that stretch around the four corners of the bed to keep it in place," Kalin says.

If you need to store a mattress pad or topper, clean it first, then roll it up tightly and store it somewhere dry. Avoid folding it, since that leads to wrinkles and creases.

Treat your mattress topper and pad kindly and they'll return the favor. The Sleep Number^® Total Protection Mattress Pad protects your mattress from common allergens like dust, pollen and pet dander. Anti-microbial properties limit mold and bacteria buildup, keeping your sleeping environment fresh and clean — an important element for consistent, quality sleep.

Combine Mattress Toppers or Pads With Good Sleep Habits

You will already benefit from more peace of mind and less stress when you protect your mattress or augment its comfort by using a mattress topper or mattress pad. Both can help improve your sleep quality, and you can maximize that well-rested feeling by practicing good habits while you're awake.

Make Healthy Eating Choices Throughout The Day

The Journal of the American Heart Association links poor sleep quality with greater food intake and a lower-quality diet. Eat a nutritious breakfast to start the day off right, limit your sugar intake and don't skip any meals.

Try to keep immune-boosting, sleep-enhancing foods on hand — having utilitarian options like pasta, grains, nuts, eggs, milk and yogurt in your pantry and fridge removes the stress of deciding what's for dinner after a busy day.

Stick To A Bedtime Routine

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes sleep quality improves with consistent sleep. And research shows people who go to sleep and wake up at the same time each day are less likely to suffer from chronic health conditions.

Develop a bedtime routine that includes avoiding screens, sipping on a soothing drink like tea or chai and making sure your room is at the right temperature.

Get Some Sunshine

Sunlight boosts sleep quality, as well as the amount of time you sleep — for every hour of sunlight you receive, your sleep is advanced by 30 minutes. If you find yourself tossing and turning at night, taking to the great outdoors is the perfect solution. Ask your work colleague to do a walking meeting. Do an at-home workout in the backyard. Even reading a book or magazine outside can have a positive impact on sleep quality.

Treat Your Mattress Like a Queen (or King?)

You spend a lot of time on your mattress. Make sure you're treating it well. A mattress pad and a mattress topper can help you individualize your sleep experience, leading to better quality sleep and more productive days.

Did You Know? Sleep is a vital component for your health and wellbeing. Sleepers who routinely use their Sleep Number^® smart bed can get 28 minutes more restful sleep per night!*

Find out more about Sleep Number^® mattress pads and mattress toppers.

Like diet and exercise, quality sleep is essential for optimal wellbeing and performance. Because everyone's sleep needs are different, Sleep Number^® smart beds sense your movements and automatically adjust firmness, comfort and support to keep you both sleeping comfortably. Find your Sleep Number^® setting for your best possible night's sleep, and if you own a Sleep Number^® bed, log in to your Sleep Number^® Rewards account to see your exclusive offers, refer friends and more.

*Based on average SleepIQ^® data from 8/1/21 - 2/28/22 of sleepers engaging with Sleep Number^®setting, SleepIQ^® data and FlexFit™ adjustable base vs. sleepers who have those features but didn’t similarly engage with them.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Joey Held is a writer based in Austin, TX, and host of the Good People, Cool Things podcast. He has written for Velocitize by WP Engine, Yahoo!, GOOD, Paste Magazine, and Texas Highways. When he's not writing or podcasting, you'll find him planning his next trip, jamming with his band Burning Years, or catching some Z's.