Mattress Pad vs. Mattress Topper: Our Top Picks For Each

Another added perk is that, despite its thicker construction, the topper contours to your shape without sinking or denting—even if you happen to change positions. While it may not be as cooling as other toppers on our list, you have 90 nights to test it out, plus a 10-year warranty to back it up. 

While it may be expensive, reviewers love the extra support this topper provides. "Has helped with fibromyalgia and a compressed spine," one-five star reviewer writes. "Sleeping more and waking with less pain." Other reviewers appreciate it for its durability and exceptional construction. "This topper is durable yet soft and contours to your body," wrote another.

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If you are looking for something that can support your many sleeping positions, this topper's targeted comfort zones will support your body and its pressure points through every toss and turn. The pressure-relieving effect also makes this a great choice for anyone with back or joint pain. To top it off, the elastic-banded sides keep the topper in place as you snooze. 

While the brand offers a 5-year warranty, be advised there is no trial period, refund, or return policy, unless the product is unopened and unused.

"The foam topper stays in place and provides a cooler sleep," confirms one five-star reviewer. Others add that it's a must-have for those seeking pain relief. "Buy the topper, especially if you have pressure point issues with pain," wrote another. "We have significant pressure point issues with shoulders, back, joints, and hips; this is definitely the sweet spot—you'll feel like you are cradled in comfort without the uneasy feeling of sinking in foam." However, here's a heads-up: In addition to no trial period, there are no negative reviews of this topper on the GhostBed site, making it important to research the product (and/or the brand) a little more before purchasing to get further, in-depth insight.

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While nontoxic materials are an obvious perk, this mattress topper stands out with comfort, too, adding instant softness to your bed while still contouring to the shape of your body. Sleepers have two firmness levels to choose from (plush or firm), and this topper is exceptional at adding height, making it the perfect remedy for an already sagging mattress. 

Above all, this topper is ready to use from the moment it's delivered to your door. The topper arrives in a box and fits perfectly on your mattress once unpacked, no complicated setup necessary.

"Added this topper to our new Avocado mattress and it was exactly what we needed—the right amount of firmness and softness for a perfect night's sleep," one five-star reviewer writes. "I have peace of mind sleeping on organic materials, eight hours a night. No harmful VOCS absorbing into my skin," another adds.

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The trial is only 45 days, which may not be enough testing time for those who really like to become acquainted with a new sleep product before committing. However, it's fairly straightforward in design and softness, so you'll likely get the gist of how this mattress pad can benefit your sleep over that period. It fits a ton of sizes and can be used on mattresses up to 16 inches. Plus, it boasts elastic bands on each side to keep the pad in place.

"Who knew a mattress pad at any price could be so well made," says one five-star reviewer. "Very heavy with commercial grade bare rubber elastic all around. Doesn't just slip on easily like a sheet." Other reviewers applaud the softness of this mattress pad. "Fits generously, and the fabric it is made of is like satin," another reviewer wrote. "Truly luxurious, and in line with my other purchases: exceeded expectations."

Most negative reviews center around the high price, but it's helpful to consider this as an investment product you can use for years to come.

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Choose from two heights (11 or 18 inches), depending on whether you're using a thin mattress or something taller. 

Another major bonus? There's no crinkly, uncomfortable, or stiff feeling from the padding, so it won't be too noisy to sleep on. Just keep in mind there's no warranty for this mattress pad, although there is a 90-day trial period.

Take it from this five-star reviewer: "My mother purchased this mattress cover for my parents' guest bed, and I was so impressed by it that when I returned home after visiting my parents I immediately ordered one. I had no idea that waterproof mattress covers could feel like normal mattress covers—no crinkly, waxy, plastic-y feeling at all—I would not even believe it was waterproof if I hadn't seen how well it does the job. What a great product!"

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he simple design easily slips onto your bed without wrinkling or popping off, and it's also machine-washable. Although significantly less expensive than other options, it still adds comfort and plushness. However, the perks end there: Expect no cooling benefits or waterproof/sustainable materials.

The lower price point also means no warranty or trial period, but you can easily return this item if you aren't satisfied—just be sure to check the retailer's full return policy before adding this mattress pad to your cart. 

While this mattress pad doesn't offer cooling benefits, plenty of five-star reviewers love this mattress pad for the added layer of softness it provides. "This is a really high quality mattress pad, well made, excellent fabric, tight stitching, plush feel, snug fit of the elastic skirt on our 18" deep king bed," one five-star reviewer says. "We bought a new mattress that has deep tufting so while it has great support it's strangely lumpy. The pad evened the surface out and made it smooth and even more comfortable. Very satisfied."

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