Understanding the Difference Between a Mattress Topper and a Protector

When choosing a new bed for a kids bedroom, we often think about the frame, the mattress, and the bedding. However mattress toppers and protectors are just as important when it comes to comfort - and ensuring your mattress stays in the best condition for as long as possible.

“Wait, aren’t mattress toppers and protectors the same thing?” we hear you ask! While easily confused, mattress toppers and mattress protectors do two very different but equally important jobs.

Mattress Protectors

The clue is in the name for this one! Mattress protectors do just that, protect your mattress. For adults, this will usually take the form of a thin protective layer that will protect your mattress from the natural sweat you produce at night, while a 100% waterproof polyurethane mattress protector is the best option for a child’s bed if you want to guard against any accidents.

Even if your child doesn’t wet the bed, protectors are also really good for preventing allergens such as dust mites from working their way into your mattress. These allergens can affect quality of sleep, especially for little ones with breathing conditions like asthma, so using a mattress protector to guard against them is better for your health as well as the health of your mattress!

Mattress Toppers

When it comes to mattresses, everyone’s preference is completely different. Whether you choose a firm or a softer option, a mattress topper can entirely transform the comfort of your bed and consequently enhance your sleep.

A mattress topper lays on top of your mattress underneath your fitted sheet, with the purpose of adding an extra layer between you and your bed to make sleeping more comfortable. Designed with clever elasticated corners a topper fits to any mattress perfectly and remains in place during the night. They are also a great way to protect your mattress from general wear and tear or being stained, as they are far easier to maintain, clean, and return to their original state.

Mattress toppers can be a good idea if you’re experiencing back or joint pain throughout the night, or if you want to boost the lifespan of a mattress that is old and has started to sag. However, unlike a protector, a mattress topper won’t protect you or your mattress from allergens or spills.

A topper is sure to make your mattress last longer and stay supportive for many years, especially if you remember to periodically turnover your mattress. So, if you are looking for an alternative to replacing a costly mattress this could be the answer to breathe new life into your sleep routine. However, if you are lucky enough to still have a mattress of high quality, the right topper can also complement it too.

Choosing the right mattress topper for your child

There are many different types of mattress toppers available depending on your specific needs. They come in various thicknesses and you can find one to fit any size of bed big or small. Each serve a unique purpose, whether it be soft wool and cotton or firmer memory foam options.

Memory foam mattress topper

Memory foam tends to be the most popular choice of mattress topper as it moulds to your body providing much-needed support while you sleep. This reduces movement during the night enabling a more comfortable sleeping position, so if you suffer from aches and pains the design will assist in relieving the pressure. A far cheaper substitute to a new memory foam mattress.

Latex foam mattress toppper

Similarly, to memory foam, a latex foam topper will add firmness to your current mattress. The long-lasting breathable texture makes it great for adjusting to changing climates so will suit your bed all year round. Most importantly latex foam is hypoallergenic meaning it is mould and dust repellent.

Waterproof mattress topper

To prolong the life of your mattress, a waterproof topper is essential for the children to add a subtle but efficient layer of protection. By preventing moisture from forming, the growth of bacteria is also no longer a worry. Whilst adding comfort to the bed, they are easy to change and machine wash meaning bedwetting issues can be resolved in no time at all!

Wool/Feather mattress topper

Perfect if you are looking for the ultimate comfort addition if your mattress is becoming a bit tired. It will provide good support while you sleep and keep you snug in the Winter months.

What’s more the natural composition regulates your temperature in all seasons so there is no need to change the mattress topper as the weather alters. Bear in mind though wool and feather toppers are not allergy-friendly and can be a little more challenging to take care of.

Do I need both?

Choosing between a topper or a protector really comes down to your own individual needs. Since they both do such different jobs, it might be that you need both to make your bed as comfortable and as safe as possible.

If you are going to choose both, it’s usually best to place the topper directly onto the mattress and the protector on top so that both your mattress and topper are protected from any sleep-detracting nasties. Once you’ve popped one on top of the other, just put your sheets on your bed as normal - although you might find you need a larger sized sheet if your topper is particularly thick.

Here are Room to Grow HQ, we stock a range of mattress protectors that are created especially with little sleepers in mind - including a 100% waterproof Tencel protector that naturally absorbs moisture away from the body, fighting against bacteria and mould without the use of any nasty chemicals. We also stock pillow protectors and duvet protectors so that you can ensure your child’s bed is as safe, comfy, and cosy as possible.

If you need help choosing the best protector for your kids bed, please get in touch or have a chat with us over on Facebook for some expert advice.