How to Buy a Mattress Pad

A mattress pad can provide extra comfort for you and protection for your mattress. This page takes you through the steps of how to buy a mattress pad.

A mattress pad can provide extra comfort for you and protection for your mattress. This page takes you through the steps of how to buy a mattress pad.

(Creative Commons photo by Billy Bob)

• If you want to protect your bed from wear and tear, water damage, spills and other problems, consider purchasing a mattress pad. A mattress pad can also make a bed more comfortable and prevent muscle and joint pain.

• Before purchasing a mattress pad, familiarize yourself with the different types.

1. Mattress pads come in different materials, such as cotton, polyester, foam and feathers.
2. Some materials are hypoallergenic and free from chemicals and dyes. These also provide protection from insects and dust mites.
3. Memory foam is one of the most expensive types. It conforms around your body, providing extra comfort. Buying a memory foam mattress pad is a good option if you want the extra comfort, but can't afford to buy a memory foam mattress.
4. The surface of egg crate pads are shaped like an egg cartoon and also provide extra comfort.
5. Down or feather mattress pads are extra soft.

• Like sheets, mattress pads come in different fits.

1. A fitted mattress pad fits on the mattress like a fitted sheet.
2. An anchor pad is a cheaper version. It stays in place by elastic bands which are attached to the mattress.
3. Guaranteed to Fit mattress pads is a version of the anchor pad which fits different sizes of beds.

• You can buy a mattress pad from specialized retailers or general stores.

1. A good place to look is in mattress stores; however, they tend to be more expensive.
2. Many department stores sell mattress pads.
3. You can purchase a mattress pad online for savings; however, it's best to first try the mattress pad in an actual store. When touching and if possible lying on the mattress pad, you can best evaluate if it will serve it's purpose; whether you are buying it for comfort or mattress protection.

• Mattress pads come in different sizes depending on the bed you will use it on.

1. They also differ in thickness.
2. The price of the mattress will depend on all the above factors.

• A mattress can be a great investment - if you buy the right one. Before shopping around for a mattress, familiarize yourself with the different types of mattress pads, including fit, size, material and thickness.

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• Introduction
• Step 1: Types of Mattress Pads
• Step 2: Fit of Mattress Pads
• Step 3: What Else You Need to Know
• Where to Buy it