Mattress Pads vs Toppers: What’s the Difference for Queen Beds?

What Is a Mattress Pad?

A mattress pad is a thin layer of quilted material that sits on top of your mattress to provide light cushioning and protect the mattress from spills, dust, and allergens. It is typically secured with elastic straps or a fitted sheet design.

Key Characteristics:

· Thin profile

· Easy to wash

· Adds minor comfort

· Primarily protective

What Is a Mattress Topper?

A mattress topper is a thicker, more substantial layer designed to alter the feel of your mattress significantly. It provides additional comfort, pressure relief, and support, making it ideal for people dissatisfied with their current mattress firmness or comfort.

Key Characteristics:

· 2 to 4 inches thick.

· Made from memory foam, latex, or wool.

· Enhances comfort and support.

· Often includes features like cooling gel or zoned support.

Key Differences: Pads vs Toppers

Feature	Mattress Pad	Mattress Topper
Thickness	~1 inch or less	2 to 4 inches
Purpose	Light comfort + protection	Comfort + support enhancement
Materials	Cotton, polyester	Memory foam, latex, wool
Durability	Moderate	High
Washability	Mostly machine washable	Spot clean only (usually)

Who Should Use a Mattress Pad?

Choose a mattress pad if you:

· Want to protect your queen mattress from spills or allergens.

· Are content with your mattress's comfort level.

· Prefer an easily washable bedding accessory.

· Sleep hot and want moisture-wicking protection.

Who Should Use a Mattress Topper?

Choose a mattress topper if you:

· Need to change your mattress’s firmness.

· Suffer from back or joint pain and need pressure relief.

· Sleep on an older mattress that’s losing support.

· Want to try latex or memory foam benefits without replacing your mattress.

Top Queen-Size Mattress Toppers and Pads reviewed

Queen Size Mattress Toppers

1. Temperature Regulating Gel Memory Foam Mattress Topper 1.5" by eLuxury

Overview:

A 1.5″ gel-infused memory foam topper that contours to pressure points,certified by CertiPUR‑US, and designed to regulate temperature for a cooler, more supportive sleep experience. Expertly made using eco-conscious processes, it’s priced at $99 for Queen size and qualifies for free white-glove delivery within Los Angeles Country.

Key Features:

· 1.5″ gel memory foam that molds to the body while offering cooling benefits.

· CertiPUR‑US certified, ensuring non-toxic materials and low VOCs.

· Hypoallergenic polyurethane foam, suitable for sensitive sleepers.

· White-glove delivery with old bedding removal included.

·  120‑night comfort guarantee and 1-year low-price protection.

Pros & Cons:

Pros	Cons
Cooling gel memory foam helps regulate temperature	Just 1.5″ thick; may offer limited comfort for those needing deeper cushioning
Contours to pressure points for added support	May retain some warmth compared to open-cell or latex toppers
CertiPUR‑US certified and hypoallergenic	Spot clean only no full washability
Included white-glove delivery & 120-night trial	Foam may take time to expand fully (up to 24–48 hours)

Check Price

2. Queen Savvy Rest Vitality Organic Talalay Latex Floor Model Clearance Topper 3"

Overview:

The Vitality Organic Talalay Latex Topper by Savvy Rest is a 3″-thick Talalay latex topper built around a GOTS-certified organic cotton knit casing. Offered as a floor model clearance, it’s priced at $499 (originally $1,099), includes free white-glove delivery within LA County, and is ideal for enhancing pressure relief especially for side sleepers while skipping memory foam’s chemicals.

Key Features:

· 3″ Soft Talalay latex in a single layer provides plush cushioning with balanced support.

· GOTS, Cradle‑to‑Cradle Gold & FSC-certified latex and organic cotton eco-friendly and non-toxic.

· Floor model clearance with minor cosmetic wear; final sale but immediate delivery available.

· 120‑Night Comfort Guarantee, 10‑year warranty, and white-glove setup.

Pros & Cons:

Pros	Cons
Plush yet responsive feel ideal for side sleepers and pressure relief.	Final sale no returns due to being floor model clearance.
Certified organic and environmentally friendly materials.	At $499, still a premium price (though discounted).
Immediate delivery with white-glove setup within LA County.	3″ thickness may be less ideal if heavier sinkage is needed.
Backed by 120-night guarantee and 10-year warranty.	Minor cosmetic flaws from showroom use.

Check Price

Queen Size Mattress Pads

1. Rayon Bamboo Mattress Pad 10"-18" by eLux

Overview:

The Rayon from Bamboo Mattress Pad by eLux is a cooling, plush pad designed for mattress depths of 10–18″.Priced at a sale rate of $79 (down from $99) for queen size, it offers breathable comfort and natural moisture-wicking perfect for those seeking a soft, cool sleeping surface without a full topper.

Key Features:

· Rayon-from-bamboo knit cover: naturally breathable and moisture-wicking.

· Plush fiber-fill core: adds gentle cushioning without altering mattress height.

· Ideal fit range: accommodates mattresses 10″ to 18″ deep.

· Sale pricing: currently $79 (originally $99) with free delivery and 120-night guarantee.

Pros & Cons:

Pros	Cons
Cooling bamboo fabric offers breathable comfort.	Limited cushioning won’t significantly change mattress feel.
Soft fiber-fill adds comfort without bulk.	No waterproof backing won’t protect against spills.
Good for mattress depths up to 18″.	Lacks hypoallergenic or antimicrobial certifications.
Sale price ($79) and LA-store delivery included.	Spot-clean only, not machine washable.

Check Price

2. Premium Cotton Terry Cloth Waterproof Mattress Protectors 10"-15" by PROTECT-A-BED®

Overview:

A fitted-sheet style mattress protector featuring a soft cotton-terry surface with a waterproof Miracle Membrane layer. It fits mattresses from 10″ to 15″ deep and is designed to be breathable, quiet,and hypoallergenic. Currently priced at $79 for queen size, with free local delivery and a 120-night comfort exchange included.

Key Features:

· Cotton terry top for softness, breathability, and noise-free sleep.

· Miracle Membrane® waterproof barrier repels spills while allowing airflow.

· Fits mattresses 10–15″ deep using stretchy 4‑way skirt.

· Hypoallergenic and machine washable, protecting against dust mites and allergens.

· Includes 120-night comfort exchange and free LA delivery.

Pros & Cons:

Pros	Cons
Soft, quiet cotton terry feels like a premium sheet	No full encasementmsides and base of mattress remain exposed.
Waterproof yet breathable thanks to Miracle Membrane	Slightly higher price (~$79) compared to basic protectors.
Protects against spills, pet accidents, and allergens.	Fit limited to mattresses ≤15″ deep.
Machine washable and hypoallergenic.	No cooling-specific materials like bamboo or Tencel.

Check Price

Video: How to Choose Between a Mattress Pad and Topper

Watch here

Conclusion

Understanding the differences between mattress pads and toppers for queen beds helps you choose the right comfort and protection level for your needs. Whether you're looking to protect a new mattress or transform an old one, Mattress Stores Los Angeles offers top-quality pads and toppers to elevate your sleep.

FAQs

1.Can I use a mattress pad and topper together?

Yes, a pad can go over a topper for added protection.

2.Which is better for back pain pad or topper?

A topper, especially memory foam or latex, is better for pain relief.

3.Do mattress toppers make beds hotter?

Some do, but gel memory foam and latex options offer cooling features.

4.Are mattress pads waterproof?

Some are. Check for waterproof versions if spill protection is needed.

5.Can I wash a mattress topper?

Most cannot be machine washed. Spot clean or use a removable cover.

6.Will a topper extend mattress life?

Yes, it reduces direct wear and tear.

7.How thick should a mattress topper be?

2–3 inches is ideal for comfort improvement.

8.Are mattress toppers worth the investment?

If you're unhappy with your mattress, a topper is a cost-effective upgrade.

9.Can mattress pads improve firmness?

Not significantly; they’re more for protection and light comfort.

10.Is a topper a good idea for guest rooms?

Absolutely an affordable way to improve comfort without buying a new mattress.