Since not everyone has access to the expensive memory foam mattresses for their beds, yet people still want to have all the comfort that such a quality material can offer them, the modern mattress covers, pads and toppers have seemingly solved the comfort issue. More and more people are out there shopping for these mattress accessories, however, do you know what the main difference between them is?

It is a fact that many people find it confusing and without knowing all the benefits and disadvantages of buying each, you might end up buying the wrong one for your personal situation. But first of all, let's clear up what is the main common characteristic in each of them. Basically memory foam mattress covers, toppers and pads are used with your current mattress, whether the mattress is made of memory foam or not.

Each of these can add that extra layer of comfort to the sleeper while at the same time protecting your mattress, prolonging its life span and minimizing any allergic reactions of people during sleep.

Many times people using these three terms interchangeably, however, they are not necessarily the same thing.

Mattress Covers

Mattress covers are basically covers that protect your mattress. The cover is a rather thin layer which has no padding (something that we will see later that the other two types have). There are covers that can completely cover your mattress just like a pillowcase. To close it you simply zip it up from one end.

One of the major benefits of using a memory foam mattress cover is the fact that it helps stay away from alergies due to minimizing the dangers of dust mites. The dust mite mattress covers that are made in hypo allergenic models are made especially for this purpose.

While mattress covers and mattress pads are not the same thing, there are many people who use both terms for the same product type, so when searching online, make sure you don't discount 'pads' when you're actually looking for 'covers'.

Mattress Pads

The mattress pads have also the job of protecting your mattress, however they are padded, unlike the covers which are thin. Their main material is cotton. You can also find them, however, using latex or other synthetic materials, however the cotton ones are the best.

Just like the mattress covers, the pads are also hypoallergenic, especially when we're talking about the memory foam mattress pad. They can be usually washed together with your bed sheets without any adverse reactions.

While the cotton ones seem to be the best, the ones made of synthetic materials last the longest and they are actually the easiest to maintain. You can have such a pad for almost 20 years without any damages, so even though they might be a bit more expensive than covers, they are well worth their relatively higher costs.

Mattress Toppers

When you really crave that extra level of comfort in bed, then mattress toppers are what you are looking for. Most people have already existing mattresses that need replacing. However mattresses being rather expensive, not everyone can afford buying a new one. This is where the topper actually comes along and saves the comfort of sleeping. Especially the memory foam mattress topper can be placed on every type of mattress and it will make your sleeping quarters truly an oasis of long lasting comfort.

You can also find pillow top mattresses that have toppers directly attached to the mattress. You can also buy them separately if you choose.

Another materials that is great for fighting off dust mites is the latex. Latex mattress toppers are really great in helping you with nightly allergies however beware as they do cost a bit more than any of the above mentioned bedding accessories.