Mattress pads are a layer of material used to add padding or extra protection to a bed. Often times, people use these pieces to add comfort to their beds, or to help make older beds last longer. Many manufacturers and companies make these in addition to beds. Sometimes, a bed will come with this padding, while other times you may have to buy the extra layer yourself. This type of bed additive is generally placed on top of a mattress, though occasionally they will be used between a mattress and a spring box for support. Sometimes these layers are combined for more support.
There are many different styles of mattress pad to choose from. Fitted pieces are created with many layers combined, often topped with quilting and fitted with elastic to keep the padding from moving around. Anchor pads are a slightly cheaper option; they are made without the quilting layer, but retain the elastic bands. Guaranteed-to-fit options are similar to the anchor style of padding. The top and bottom of the pad are cut to size, but the sides are designed to expand as needed to fit the shape of a bed. Egg Crate style pads are a less expensive option, and have a texture similar to that of an egg container, with many rises and falls. Memory foam is made from a thicker material that conforms to the body's shape; these are often like a thin, secondary mattress. Down pads are thin and soft, mostly adding a layer to the bed for comfort and warmth.These types of bed additives can be made from many different kinds of materials. Cotton material is often paired with wool or polyester and is generally made from several layers. This gives the padding a somewhat sturdy build. Organic fabrics and fibers are also common, as they are more environmentally friendly; these can cost more, however. Foam is often combined with other materials for padding, although some pads are made exclusively from foam. For the more expensive types of padding, silk, down, and feathers are all very common. These layers of padding come in all available bed sizes from twin through king, and can be custom ordered or made for any bed.
Sometimes these layers come in a variety of textures as well as material. Some of the bed top padding is designed to be very soft and add a small amount of support - these are often designed more for comfort and warmth. Other types of padding are made from firm materials or purposefully stitched together to create a very firm surface. These are built more for body support, and are generally used by those with health problems who may need support in certain areas of the body. Certain forms of padding have been built to shape to certain body parts as well, curving to fit areas such as the head and hips as opposed to whole body support. They also commonly come with some sort of slip or cover to prevent staining or damage and help secure the extra layer.
Laura Wheelock is the creator of Cool Wicking PJs, an online store specializing in moisture wicking products to relieve night sweats, hot flashes, and sweating at night. For more information on a wool mattress pad, which also wicks moisture, visit http://www.coolwickingpjs.com/snugfleecewoolmattresscover
Designer Bedding on SALE
Home Improvement
Home Improvement - Garden Ideas - Home Making