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.

Mattress Topper

A mattress topper adds extra protection and comfort to your mattress and can change the feeling of how you sleep — without the need to buy an entirely new mattress. It provides additional softness, pressure relief and plush support. Some toppers also feature temperature regulation technology.

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Benefits of a Mattress Topper or Pad

• Added comfort

From cozy cushioning to temperature control, a mattress topper can add extra comfort to any bed. What’s preventing you from getting your best sleep? Choose the right topper to meet your specific needs for added comfort and restful Zzzs.

• Extra Support

Some mattress toppers are made of memory foam or other resilient materials designed to contour to your body and provide support and pressure relief.

• Cost-effective

If the feel of your bed is not quite right, a mattress topper is an economical option to help improve its comfort at a fraction of the price of a new mattress.

How To Care For Your Mattress Pad Or Mattress Topper

Unlike a mattress, which can’t be cleaned in a washing machine, some mattress toppers and pads are machine washable. Others have removable covers that can be machine-washed, and some are spot-clean only. It’s important to read the care instructions on the mattress topper you choose to ensure that it stays fresh, clean and stain- and odor-free.

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.

CLEANING YOUR MATTRESS TOPPER

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.