Even though a warm blanket on a cold winter night sounds convenient, it might not be enough to keep you entirely warm during your whole night of sleep. It might easily slip off, causing you discomfort and leaving you to freeze.
You might think that maybe if you get dressed well, you will avoid the cold, but you will add even more to the discomfort without being able to move freely during your sleep.
Therefore, we suggest an investment in better winter equipment for your bedding. What we have in mind is the heated bed topper. It is a mattress pad that is put on top of your bed to provide you with the warmest sleeping experience.
It can heat the entire surface of the mattress by radiating the heat towards your body, and at the same time, it will save electricity as no other heater can. You can quickly adjust the desired temperature, and you will never feel like you are too cold or too warm.
Because we want you to have your warm night of sleep, we have reviewed three high-quality mattress toppers so that you can make the best decision. We have also created a useful guide on what kind you should choose, the material type and buy tips. If you are in a hurry, you can check our summary here.
Quick tip: If you are open to other toppers/pads go see our in-depth mattress topper guide (by all types).
Buying Tips for Heated Mattress Pads
Safety
Heated mattress toppers are powered by electricity. Therefore, its safety features should come first when considering which one to buy. You will be lying on a system made of wires and electrical pads, so you should be assured that there won’t be any adverse occurrences.
Nowadays, almost every mattress topper comes with advanced safety features such as a sleep timer and an automatic turn off function. You can set the timer at a particular time, and it will automatically turn it off. Also, some have a unique feature that will turn it off after some time of inactivity.
Before buying the heated topper, you should also make sure that it’s compatible with your mattress. Many mattresses are made of materials that are not fire resistant and in combination with the topper may cause an undesirable fire. There are a lot of statistics on bedding fires, and therefore you should make sure to consider every small detail that might threaten your well-being.
Easy to use
‘Easy to use’ means that the heated topper should not cause you any difficulties once you start maneuvering it. It should be straightforward to unpack it and to place it on the mattress, as well as to read and to understand the user manual that comes with it.
Another thing that should be easy to use are the controllers that are in charge of adjusting the temperature. They should be easy-to-reach without you needing to get up every time you want to modify the settings of the heated topper.
That’s especially important if you suffer from any medical condition and frequent moving around is too hard for you.
Also, some controllers may come with small wordings, and it might cause difficulties to those who have vision problems.
Before purchasing the topper, make sure to check if it has all the features that will facilitate its use and you won’t have any struggles.
Quality and Durability
We all know that quality comes at a price and that’s no exception in this case too. When compared to other bedding, the topper is cheaper, but that doesn’t mean that its quality is lower. Therefore, there are certain things that you should consider when choosing the ideal product.
- Warranty – One of the primary indicators, whether the product is of high-quality, is the warranty attached to it. The best toppers come with a guarantee of at least 5-6 years, and you should always check the information regarding it in advance.
- Type of materials – The materials from which the topper is made of are an important indicator too. The excellent material will allow the topper to stay in place without bunching up or pilling. Also, it should be breathable and should contribute to the overall temperature regulation.
- Quality of the electrical system – The wires and the whole system of heating mattress pads should be thin and comfortable so that they don’t bother you during your sleep.
Control the Temperature
The overall control system should be straightforward to use. Whether it comes in the form of a knob or it’s digital, it should always be fun and easy to operate with it.
The topper should have several temperature options that will enable you to reach the right temperature balance throughout the night. That’s important so that you can enjoy all of its perks.
Also, in colder places, it’s a must to have a pad that will keep you entirely warm without the fuss of having to deal with an underperforming controlling system. The more settings the control system has, the better the customization of the preferred warmth.
With the proper temperature controlling system, you will be able to adjust the temperature at any time during the night in a completely dark room and even with your eyes shut.
Waterproof
Even though this feature is often neglected, it’s still among the list of necessary things that should be considered when purchasing the pad.
Many sleepers enjoy taking their morning coffee or breakfast in bed, and if they are not careful enough, they might end up spilling it all over the sheets and the mattress. Therefore, if you are using a topper and you are among the clumsy people, it’s wise to purchase a waterproof one to protect the bed.
Not only that it will stay dry in case if you spill something, but it will also stay clean for a more extended period.
Also, it can be a good choice, if you have bladder control problems, or you tend to sleep with your toddler child.
Having the waterproof topper above the mattress is a significant investment, and you will also be able to protect the bed from getting dirty.
Difference between a Pad and Heated Blanket
Even though these two terms may seem like they will have the same benefits, that’s not entirely true.
You might think that you will be equally heated either way and that it doesn’t matter which one you choose.
However, we are here to show you the main differences between the blanket and the pad, and you will be able to see for yourself that a heated mattress pad might be a right choice.
- Heated blanket – Even though we all possess blankets, a heated version of them might not be a smart idea. They tend to overheat quickly, and as a consequence, you won’t be able to put anything above it. Also, all of the heat will be radiated towards the ceiling, and it might easily slip off if you tend to toss and turn a lot, leaving you cold throughout the night. Even though it’s mobile, it’s a less safe and durable option than the pad.
- Heated pad – The mattress pad will stay in place on the mattress no matter how much you tend to move. It will direct the heat towards your body, and you can use whichever cover you want to warm up yourself additionally. Also, it’s safer, and it’s usually waterproof. This way it will protect your mattress, and it will stay clean without demanding frequent washing. That adds to its durability and versatility.
Types of Materials
Natural
Natural materials are extracted from the nature and are amongst the hottest materials used in the topper’s construction. Organic fibers are a healthier choice than any other stuff and at the same time are of a higher quality.
These materials don’t have the specific smell that plastic ones have and also are very environmentally friendly. They are also the most long-lasting ones but can come at a higher price than any other material.
Each organic material is certified before entering the market and that way, you can be assured that it will satisfy the standards of a top-notch product.
The most common natural materials used in the construction of toppers are organic cotton, organic wool and in some cases, natural latex. Each of them will add even more to the temperature balance and will keep you comfortable throughout the night.
Synthetic
Synthetic materials are the ones that are developed from petroleum oil and are engineered by scientists and other experts. One of the most popular synthetic material is the polyester, and it is highly used in the construction of heated mattress toppers.
Many manufacturers opt for this material because it is durable and resistant to external factors. It will endure many chemicals, and it won’t stretch and shrink.
Also, it can be easily washed and quickly dried afterward. Because it has a versatile usage, it is used as the topper’s outer cover, enabling it to be long-lasting and easy to maintain it clean.
Due to its beautiful texture, the finish is usually quite soft and luxurious and as a consequence, very appealing to the sleeper. It is very comfortable as well, and you will be able to rest during the night properly.
Washable
The issue with many materials is that not all of them can be washed and therefore, can contribute to a dirty sleeping surface. However, many materials’ designers lately are creating materials that are suitable for cold washing, or ones that can even be washed in a machine.
Therefore, if having a clean and a tidy heated mattress topper is of utmost importance for you, you should always look for a one that can be easily washed. Every topper comes with a user manual where it states how it should be cleaned.
You should be careful though because of the electric system of wires and heated mattress pads. They should be removed prior the washing to avoid any adverse effects. Once the mattress pad is washed, you can put it back together with the electric system and put it back on top of the mattress.
Other Type of Toppers
For Back Pain
Back pain can be uncomfortable, and unfortunately, it is prevalent lately. It is quite annoying when you can’t get your proper night of sleep, and you might feel like you are operating on a low battery all the time.
Luckily, you can successfully fight the pain, and there are many solutions nowadays. Probably the most convenient solution is the mattress topper that is created especially for sleepers that experience such a pain. It is designed to give you more comfort and support and it’s highly recommended by physicians.
Usually, it’s thin and is made of memory foam and latex. As a consequence, this topper is the top-rated for lowering the back pain, allowing you to sleep undisrupted.
Many of them are waterproof and washable as well and will enable you to do your best to keep them perfectly clean.
For Side Sleepers
Similar to the sleepers with back pain, the side sleepers need a topper that will offer them a quality balance of comfort and support. Side sleepers are most prone to high pressure if they do not choose the right sleeping surface.
However, there are toppers designed especially for the side sleepers to improve their sleeping experience and to provide them the right amount of stability for their whole body.
When it comes to its structure, the topper for side sleepers should be thicker than usual to support every pressure point successfully. This way, your joints will be perfectly relaxed, and the spine will be appropriately aligned.
Other aspects that you should take into account are its ability to regulate the overall temperature and whether it has an unpleasant odor upon unboxing. These factors depend on the materials used and your personal preferences.
Also, don’t forget to opt for a washable topper because you will want it to be perfectly clean.
Cooling
Contrary to the heated mattress toppers, cooling ones are designed to maintain a steady and cool body temperature throughout the night. They are also placed above the mattress and are meant for people who tend to sleep hot, or are sleeping in a warm environment.
They are usually thin and will successfully redistribute the heat without trapping it inside of it.
You can choose between an active and a passive cooling mattress pad. Active ones come with attachable fans or water pumps that are in charge of keeping the sleeper cool.
On the other hand, passive toppers do not have movable parts and are made of unique materials instead. Such materials are, for example, a foam infused with a gel that is in charge of absorbing the heat and enhancing the airflow.
Other cooling materials include natural latex, natural feathers, most ideally from geese or ducks, organic wool and cotton and other phase-changing materials.
Foam
We all know that foam is one of the most famous materials when it comes to mattress’s construction. Because of its popularity, it makes its way into the toppers’ world, and it provides the ultimate comfort to the sleeper.
Even though the choice is highly personal, the foam is probably the highest recommended option because it quickly conforms to the natural shape of your body. It is capable of hugging it gently and of providing the proper contour.
As such, it will relieve all of the pressure in the critical points, especially in the joints, the shoulders and the hips. You can rest assured that your weight will be evenly distributed over the whole surface and you won’t feel any discomfort during the night.
The foam’s density is also a key factor when choosing the high-grade topper, and the denser the foam is, the better the support it offers. Got to memory foam mattress pads/toppers buyer’s guide to learn all about this type.
Our Top 3 Heated Pad Reviews
In continuation, you can read about our three favorite toppers, and we hope that one of them will make it into your bedroom.
Chilipad Cube – Best Heat Features
Features:
- Breathable, soft and comfortable surface
- Available in several sizes
- Adjustable temperature
- Suitable for cold washing
Our Ratings: 9.6/10
The Chillipad Cube is made to deliver the perfect temperature for your body and the ultimate comfort. It provides a temperature control that ranges between 55 and 110 degrees, and it does so through circulating heated and cold water.
Your sleeping environment should be adequately controlled if you want to sleep well and if you want to reach a balanced mental and physical state. Its construction incorporates micro tubes that enhance the water flow and can be controlled by you regarding the overall temperature, humidity, and the cube placement.
The temperature is controlled by the cube that holds the water, and it is connected with the tubes. Both of them can be controlled with a wireless remote, so you won’t have to get up to adjust the heat non-stop.
The pad that is attached to the cube and the tubes is extremely comfortable, made of a poly-cotton blend which also contributes to the overall breathability.
Sunbeam – Ideal for Cold Sleepers
Features:
- Dual zone control
- Quickly adapts to your body
- Practical and easy-to-use
- 100% polyester pad
Our Ratings: 9.5/10
Another excellent heated pad, worth of our attention and time, is the Sunbeam. It is designed out of 100% polyester cover that is connected to the electronic system. The electronic system is made out of few wires that are connected to the heating pads in the top and bottom of the topper.
The cover itself is really thin, but neatly sewn to hold everything together. Also, it is really soft and you will be able to completely relax during your night of sleep. On top of that, you will be perfectly warmed up even in the coldest of nights and have the best sleeping experience.
It can be quickly heated in a couple of minutes, and likewise, it can be rapidly cooled off.
Also, it is very easy-to-use, and you can quickly adjust the temperature in the dark and even with your eyes open. If that’s not enough, then you should know that it can be easily washed in the washing machine in cold water. Once it has dried out, you can place it on your mattress again.
SoftHeat – Great Value
Features:
- 60-minute timer
- Conforms to your body
- Entirely washable
- Helps you recover
Our Ratings: 9.4/10
Last, but not least is the SoftHeat heated pad. SoftHeat is a brand that designs the top-grade products that will help your whole body relax at the high-grade temperature. It has recovering features that will contribute for relieving any pain in the muscles, for improving the blood flow and for healing any other ache in the system.
This heating mattress topper is very versatile and is the best fit for different body types. Sleepers like it because the pad is removable and as a consequence, you can enjoy the benefits of extra moisture. It’s suitable even for the coldest environments because it will keep you entirely warm.
The topper is fully washable and therefore, you won’t have to worry whether you will have to struggle to keep it clean. Also, it can be easily placed above the mattress and easily removed in a matter of minutes.
Our Final Thoughts
Heated mattress pads are popular products nowadays and are a must for sleepers that sleep in colder environments or need an extra source of heat to keep them warm during the night.
They come in different shapes and are made of different materials and before purchasing the best one you should straighten your priorities to make the right decision. Also, there are other aspects to be considered, such as their durability, quality, safety, ease of use, etc.
Therefore, we hope that with our review we have managed to cover most of the aspects that may impact your choice and that we have helped you see things clearer.
We believe that you will make the best decision to choosing the heated mattress topper or a pad and we hope that you won’t experience discomfort during your sleep ever again.