Mattress Topper Vs Protector: What’s The Difference?

Many people don’t know the difference between mattress toppers and mattress protectors. Although both are important and shield your mattress from spills, stains, and allergens, there are key differences and benefits to each. 

In this guide, we’ll cover all you need to know about a mattress topper vs protectors, from similarities and differences, to which one gives you everything you need. 

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What is a Mattress Topper? 

Mattress toppers are exactly what it says in their name - a topper for your mattress. They sit on top of your mattress, adding an extra layer of comfort and extending its quality of life by reducing wear and tear. 

Mattress toppers are usually available in a variety of fillings and include cooling gel options which help you achieve a quality night's sleep. 

If your existing mattress needs sprucing up, then a mattress topper can give it a new lease of life and can prevent you from buying a completely new mattress. If your mattress suffers from being too firm, a topper can soften your sleeping surface considerably. 

Christy offers unique mattress protectors and toppers, each carefully crafted in the UK with a crisp cotton percale casing and a polyester filling. Sizes range from single to super king, ensuring a good night's sleep for all. 

Mattress Topper Benefits 

Some of the key benefits of investing in a mattress topper are: 

• It allows you to transform an old mattress into a luxury mattress without buying a new one
• Mattress toppers can help mitigate back or joint pain
• They can extend the life of your mattress 
• They can help to improve sleep quality 
• If you can’t replace a full mattress they are a great alternative and can save you money 

Mattress Topper Thickness 

The thickness of a mattress topper depends on the age, feel, and condition of your mattress. Usually, toppers are up to 5cm thick and offer a good level of comfort and support. However, if your mattress is fairly new then a thinner topper of under 5 inches can give it a more luxurious feel. 

What is a Mattress Protector? 

Now that you understand the key features of a mattress topper, what about a mattress protector? 

A mattress protector acts as a barrier between sleepers and a mattress, providing hygiene, comfort, and reliability and longevity. They are mainly used to keep your mattress feeling fresh, hygienic, and free from stains. 

Ideal for a range of needs, they can range from waterproof options to anti-allergen protectors. If allergies are your main concern, we have our own cutting-edge anti-allergy mattress protector. 

This protector starts with hollow fibre - fine polyester that is spun with a hollow core to trap air - and then is treated with an antimicrobial that stops dust mites in their tracks. It works by removing the food sources that bacteria, fungi, and dust mites rely on. 

Mattress Protector Benefits 

Just like a mattress topper, a mattress protector has its own set of benefits, including: 

• It helps your mattress last as long as possible
• They are easy to wash and clean should spills occur
• Protects you from allergens, allowing a comfortable night’s sleep
• Waterproof mattress protectors are perfect for young kids, the elderly, or pets that sleep on the bed
• Protects you from chemicals that are sometimes used in synthetic mattress construction 

Can I Wash a Mattress Protector? 

Most mattress protectors and pillow protectors are suitable for machine washing at home. They can easily be thrown in alongside your bedding, and we recommend washing your protector every 1-2 weeks. Of course, be sure to always follow the washing instructions when doing so, and likewise with tumble drying too. 

To find out more about washing a mattress protector or your other bed linen, check out a handy guide on how often you should be washing your bedding. 

Do I Need a Mattress Topper or Protector? 

Ultimately, the choice is yours. It all comes down to your preferences and needs. If your mattress is old and starting to feel uncomfortable, then a topper is probably the best choice. If you suffer from allergies or frequently eat and drink in bed, then a mattress protector is a better option. 

However, both protectors and toppers help your mattress last longer. If that is your main requirement, consider looking at the benefits of each to determine which one holds the most value to you.  If you’d like the benefit from both, you can also use them together. 

Sleep well with Christy’s Luxury Bedding Collection 

When it comes to bedding, we are true experts. From sumptuous fitted sheets to duvet sets, all our pieces are durable enough to withstand countless washes and are ultra-soft, making them perfect for a relaxing night’s sleep, every night.