Types of Mattress Pads for Queen-Size Beds

Memory Foam

• Memory foam conforms to your body, minimizing your movement when you sleep. It also reduces the movement your partner feels if you toss and turn. Memory foam mattress pads have been known to alleviate joint pain, and there are hypoallergenic and anti-bacterial types available as well. A memory foam mattress pad provides the benefits of a memory foam mattress, but at a much lower cost.

Feather

• Feather mattresses have been popular for hundreds of years, and feather mattress pads are still popular today. The feather mattress pad is perfect for anyone who wants to feel cocooned while he sleeps. It is not ideal for people who want to make their mattress firmer, for a feather pad makes a mattress softer by adding cushioning and making the mattress feel luxurious.

  While some mattress pads can make you hotter when sleeping, feather pads regulate body temperature, for feathers hold in body heat when it is cold and keep you cool by letting air circulate between the feathers in the summer. Feather mattress pads will flatten out when laid on, so they will need to be fluffed regularly.

Wool

• Wool mattress pads are available in many varieties of wool--primarily lamb's wool and wool blends--making this type of mattress topper feel plush instead of itchy. A wool mattress pad is a good choice for people with allergies because it is dust mite- and mold-resistant. Wool also regulates body temperature, so you do not have to worry about becoming cold or warm because of your wool mattress pad. No matter what type of wool pad you buy, you should steam-clean or dry-clean it. Regular cleaning is necessary to help the wool maintain its shape.