If you've ever wondered whether a mattress pad is necessary, it helps to know exactly what it does. Unlike a mattress topper, which adds noticeable cushioning and softness on top of your mattress, a mattress pad sits between your mattress and the bedstead's slatted base. For pocket-sprung mattresses, a mattress pad provides excellent protection by absorbing pressure and reducing wear caused by the slats underneath. This simple layer helps to extend the life of your mattress and maintains its comfort and support over time. In short, a mattress pad acts as a protective buffer, preserving the quality of your investment while subtly enhancing comfort — without changing the feel of your mattress like a topper would.
Unlike mattress protectors or toppers, the mattress pad sits beneath your mattress and stays in place thanks to string ties and eyelets. This means no shifting around, and a perfect fit over your bedstead's slats.
The mattress pad acts like a shield between your mattress and the wooden slats, reducing friction and preventing wear and tear. It also stops any hidden moisture from the bed frame getting to your mattress and keeps tiny splinters at bay.
To get the best performance from your mattress pad, ensure your bedstead slats are no more than 7.5cm apart. This provides the necessary support for your mattress and mattress pad to work together seamlessly.
It's important to understand the difference: a mattress pad protects your mattress from underneath, whereas a mattress protector covers the top surface to guard against spills, stains, and bodily moisture. For comprehensive mattress care, we recommend using both products, if using a slatted base.
What is the difference between a bedstead mattress pad and a mattress topper?
Mattress pads can adjust the sensation of a bed and offer minimal protection, whereas toppers deliver a more substantial improvement in both comfort and support.
What is the difference between a mattress pad and a mattress protector?
A mattress pad is mainly for comfort and can provide limited protection, while a mattress protector is primarily for protecting your mattress against spills, stains, allergens, and other potential threats. If you want to enhance comfort, a mattress pad is suitable. If you're more concerned about protecting your mattress, a mattress protector is the better option.
Where do I put the mattress pad?
The mattress pad sits underneath the mattress, on top of the slatted base.
Do I need to buy a bedstead mattress pad?
We recommend a mattress pad for any quality mattress that rests on bedstead slats, sprung or otherwise. We always recommend using one if your bed slats are greater than the recommended width of 7.5cm. A mattress pad will protect the mattress from ticking and therefore increase the longevity of your mattress.
