Mattress pad

Made from a variety of materials including wool, cotton, memory foam, feather and latex,[1] its function is to provide an extra layer of comfort, especially when the existing mattress is worn or uncomfortable.

In contrast, mattress toppers are usually sold for use on top of boxsprings (secured with straps or elasticated cloth corners[3]).

[5][7] Pillow top mattress toppers are filled with natural fibers such as cotton or down, or synthetic options such as microfiber.

Viscous materials, like water, resist shear flow and strain linearly with time when a stress is applied.

Memory foam mattress toppers are touted to optimize support and promote proper spinal alignment during sleep.