Sweaty Sleeper? This Cooling Mattress Pad Actually Helps Me Stay Dry
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If you tend to overheat at night, a cooling mattress pad or topper can help. These layers sit on top of your mattress, both for comfort and cooling, and are designed to regulate your temperature by wicking away night sweats, improving airflow, or dissipating heat for a cooler night's sleep.
Our top picks:
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Best overall: Slumber Cloud Performance Mattress Pad
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Best value: SLEEP ZONE Cooling Quilted Mattress Pad
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Best overall topper: ViscoSoft Memory Foam Mattress Topper
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Best memory foam: Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Adapt Topper + Cooling
At the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab , my team and I have tested 76 different mattress pads and toppers to find styles that'll actually keep you cool all night long. We worked with hot sleepers to try out each style at home before sharing feedback on overall comfort, temperature regulation, ease of setup, and more.
Because many brands overpromise on their products' cooling capabilities, we assess each style's cooling features, such as perforated foam or cooling technologies like Outlast and 37.5 technologies. There are two types of cooling: Active cooling options use technology to push air or water through to control the temperature of the bed, while passive cooling utilizes materials that increase airflow or absorb and release heat for temperature regulation.
Slumber Cloud Performance Mattress Pad
WHO IT'S BEST FOR: Anyone who wants to add cool plushness to their bed
WHY WE LOVE IT:Slumber Cloud's mattress pad goes on your mattress just as easily as a fitted sheet and uses Outlast technology, which is designed to absorb and release heat for temperature regulation. That means the pad absorbs heat when you get overheated and releases it when you are too cold.
TESTER FEEDBACK: As one tester put it, "I would have been skeptical about buying this because I wouldn't have believed that it works—it's so slim and doesn't seem to have a cooling gel or anything you'd notice, but it really works!"
I personally use this topper on my bed and appreciate both its soft feel and how it adds a protective layer to my mattress. It also never feels hot and is completely silent when I toss and turn. It's performed consistently well with our at-home testers, though some noticed it could bunch up when they moved around at night.
- Features Outlast technology for great cooling capabilities
- Easy to put on your bed
- Adds a soft, plush feel
- Some testers found it bunched under them a bit as they slept
SLEEP ZONE Cooling Quilted Mattress Pad
WHO IT'S BEST FOR: Budget shoppers who want a softer bed
WHY WE LOVE IT:This mattress pad combines soft, plush fiber fill with stretchy elastic. The microfiber yarns are treated with NANOTEX cooling technology, which helps the material wick away moisture to keep you cool.
TESTER FEEDBACK: Our testers were impressed by its thick elastic and generous deep pockets, which the brand says fits mattresses up to 21 inches. One said, "I liked that the pad didn't move around at all."
Others also liked the plush fill, though some found it wore out faster than they liked over time. Still, they agreed it felt soft. A tester even compared to it "sleeping on a fluffy cloud." None of our testers reported overheating, though one said it didn't feel particularly cooling.
- Moisture-wicking material to help keep you dry
- Deep pocket fits up to 21-inch mattresses
- Ultra-soft and plush pillowtop
- Some testers said the fill compresses more than other mattress pads
ViscoSoft Memory Foam Mattress Topper
WHO IT'S BEST FOR: Those who have mattresses in need of an upgrade will benefit from this supportive pick
WHY WE LOVE IT:If your mattress feels less supportive, a mattress topper can help refresh your bed. This style from ViscoSoft has 2-inch, 3-inch and 4-inch thickness options.The foam is perforated throughout to help dissipate heat and allow more airflow. In our tests, it earned high marks for comfort and support, and consumer testers highlighted the firmer feel.
TESTER FEEDBACK: Because of its memory foam material and substantial height, testers said it was a bit more challenging to unroll onto their bed and it took some time for the foam smell to fade. However, they appreciated the corner straps to keep it tight and secure once it was on and the supportiveness it added to their mattresses.
"I like the way it conforms to your body while still providing support," said one tester. Another noted, "This mattress topper added some much-needed firmness to my mattress for good back support."
- Three thickness options
- Perforated foam for increased airflow
- Straps to keep it secure
- Some testers noted that it took a few days for the initial foam smell to dissipate
Zinus Green Tea Cooling Gel Memory Foam Mattress Topper
WHO IT'S BEST FOR: Memory foam fans who want to avoid a high price tag
WHY WE LOVE IT:When it comes to mattress toppers and pads, most will set you back at least $100, but this topper comes in on the affordable side. It's designed to provide the comfort of memory foam without storing heat like traditional foam toppers can. The foam is infused with gel that helps prevent a hot, stuffy feel, though we weren't able to verify if the green tea infusion helped limit odors.
TESTER FEEDBACK: Testers loved that it "never moved out of place" and was overall cushy yet firm and supportive. One tester even said, "I felt like I was sleeping on a high-end mattress at a luxury hotel." It's mainly sold without a cover, though certain sizes offer one for an added cost.
- Under $100
- Gel-infused foam to help keep you cool
- Testers gave high marks for support
- Machine-washable cover costs extra
Breescape Cooling Mattress Topper
WHO IT'S BEST FOR: Hot sleepers looking for a topper that won't shift around
WHY WE LOVE IT:This new topper addresses the biggest complaint in our mattress topper tests: It's designed to stay in place throughout the night. Beyond the adjustable corner straps, the bottom features anti-slip grips to secure onto your mattress. The responsive foam is also perforated, and the cool-to-the-touch machine-washable cover uses mesh along the sides for extra airflow.
TESTER FEEDBACK:Compared to other foam toppers, our testers liked how the foam softened their bed for comfort without sinking in too much under their weight. One said, "It made my mattress feel much plushier than expected." They also reported no issues with shifting or maintaining a comfortable body temperature. Still, we wish it was available in more bed sizes.
- Cool-to-the-touch washable cover
- Response yet cushiony foam
- Corner straps and grippy cover to help keep it from moving
- Only available in Queen or King
Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Adapt Topper + Cooling
WHO IT'S BEST FOR:Sleepers who love the sink-in-your-bed feeling and want motion isolation
WHY WE LOVE IT:TEMPUR foam softens your bed and contours to your body, offering unparalleled pressure relief plus helpful motion isolation for couples. While the foam is perforated for airflow, the cooling upgrade adds a cool-to-the-touch cover with cooling yarns, similar to what you'll find in the brand's cooling mattresses. The outer fabric is designed to wick away moisture and can be removed for easy laundering. Plus, the corner straps help secure the topper to the bed.
TESTER FEEDBACK: "It softened the firmness of our mattress, which almost immediately alleviated my hip and lower back pain," reported one tester. Another shared, "The topper feels cool to the touch." All testers agreed that this topper helped them maintain a comfortable body temperature (especially compared to previous memory foam toppers they tried).
Because the cooling add-on only applies to the 3-inch topper, you may need deep-pocket sheets if you already have a thick mattress.
- Moisture-wicking outer cover to help keep you dry
- Soft foam offers pressure relief
- Straps keep the topper secure
- Adds height to the mattress, so you may need deep-pocket sheets.
Sijo Temperature Regulating Mattress Pad
WHO IT'S BEST FOR:Anyone who wants a softer, plusher bed
WHY WE LOVE IT:Beyond its cool-to-the-touch feel, this mattress pad from Sijo is made with CLIMA fiber, which the company refers to as a phase-change material that stores and releases heat to help keep you cooler when you're hot and warmer when you're cold.It also features a waterproof layer to help protect your mattress and can fit mattresses up to 18 inches deep.
TESTER FEEDBACK: Testers appreciated how soft and cushioning this Sijo pad felt, elevating too-firm mattresses. One tester said, "it fits the bed perfectly and does not shift around. It is quiet and light, and easy to clean!"Some testers reported that the silky feel felt too slippery. Another added, "It did cool the overall sleeping temperature. I did not have night sweats while using this as opposed to when I didn't have it."
- Fits mattresses up to 18 inches deep
- Cool-to-the-touch feel
- Waterproof lining
- Too slippery, according to some testers
Eight Sleep Pod 5 Core
WHO IT'S BEST FOR: Smart tech users who want to maximize their rest at night
WHY WE LOVE IT:Unlike other picks, this mattress pad provides active cooling throughout the night. You can adjust your preferred temperature (on either side of the bed) from 55°F to 110°F, thanks to embedded wires, sensors, and a standalone water hub. For the first year, you'll need to opt into the monthly subscription, which comes with extra features like auto-temperature adjustment, vibration/thermal alarms, and sleep reports. After that, you can continue to set your preferred temperature at no cost, though several of our testers found it worth the monthly add-on.
TESTER FEEDBACK: It's a game-changer for couples: You can adjust the temperature on each side of the bed, so you can both have your dream sleeping environment. Our testers agreed that it's helped improve their quality of sleep. One shared, "One of my favorite features is the hot flash mode, which rapidly cools the pod. I've used it a few times when I woke up overheated, and it works so well that I'm usually able to fall back asleep quickly."
After using this pod, GH Senior Tech & Engineering Analyst Olivia Lipski said, " I'm a hot sleeper and I didn't wake up sweaty once throughout the night while using this!"She was also impressed by the alarm features, finding them helpful and effective. Lipski and a few other testers noted that they could feel the wires of the pad, though it didn't bother most of them.
- Cooling and heating capabilities
- Adjust temperature easily with smartphone app
- High-tech features like vibrating alarms, sleep reports and auto-temperature adjustment
- Some testers noted that they could feel the wires through the pad at times
How we test cooling mattress pads and toppers
Pros in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab have sent 76 different mattress pads and toppers to over 150 consumer testers to help us narrow down the top cooling mattress pad options. Testers provided feedback on comfort, support, ease of setup, feel, and more. In addition to having real people try them out firsthand, GH fiber scientists reviewed product claims, cooling features, and evaluated the construction of each pad or topper.
After sorting through hundreds of data points, GH pros chose these picks based on extensive testing and product claim review to ensure you'll find the best cooling mattress pad or topper for your bed.
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How do cooling mattress pads work?
Many products claim to provide cooling benefits, but there are no set definitions of what "cooling" actually means. Therefore, brands can make these claims with nothing to back them up. GH textiles pros are here to help you shop for cooling bedding that will really work. Here's what to look for:
✔️ Cooling technologies:Threads treated with phase-change technologies store and release heat to keep you at a stable body temperature and provide real cooling effects. Opt for well-vetted technologies like Outlast and 37.5.
✔️ Smart features:The only way to actually adjust the exact temperature of your sleeping environment is with active cooling properties that circulate air or water through the surface of the pad or topper. You can set the exact temperature for a cool feel in the summer and more warmth in the winter. These are great options for couples as you can customize the feel of each side of the mattress separately. Note that these smart features tend to be pricey.
✔️ Temperature-regulating or moisture-wicking materials:While cotton's soft, natural, breathable feel makes it popular in bedding, it's not a very cooling material. Cotton holds onto moisture: It won't wick away sweat during the night, so you'll continue to feel sweaty, which can be uncomfortable and wake you up. Moisture-wicking materials like Tencel and lyocell/viscose pull the moisture away for a drier feel and more comfortable sleep.
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What to look for when shopping for a cooling mattress pad or topper
In addition to cooling features, you should keep these considerations in mind when shopping for a new mattress pad or topper:
✔️ Stay-put design:A big complaint we hear from testers around mattress pads and toppers is that they shift during the night. Opt for styles with a stretchy bottom band or straps to keep it perfectly in place, even if you toss and turn.
✔️ Thickness:You may think 'the thicker, the better,' but the height of a mattress pad or topper should be considered before purchasing. Make sure that you have sheets that can accommodate the new height of your bed with the addition of your topper. You may need to purchase deep-pocket sheets if the height of your mattress and topper combined is over 12 inches tall.
✔️ Firmness:Toppers and pads are available in different firmness levels from plush and cloud-like to firm and supportive. Your sleeping position can help inform what level of firmness is best for you. Back sleepers should opt for a firmer bed, while side sleepers need a softer feel to alleviate pressure on their hips and shoulders.
✔️ Washability:Some mattress pads are machine washable while others aren't, so make sure to check the care label. Most toppers aren't machine washable because they use thicker materials like memory foam. For toppers, look for machine-washable covers.
✔️ Waterproof:If you want to avoid having to double up with a mattress protector and a mattress pad, choose a style with a waterproof layer. This way, your mattress is still protected if you spill something on your bed.
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What material is best for cooling mattress pads and toppers?
When thinking about which material is best for your mattress pad or topper, you need to consider how you want your mattress to feel. Do you want your bed to be firmer and more supportive? Do you want a plusher, softer, cozier bed? Here's how to choose the perfect material to upgrade your mattress:
✔️ If you want a plusher feel,look for fluffy materials like down, down alternative, or wool. These materials have an airy, lofty texture that creates a cloud-like sleeping environment.
✔️ If you need more support and firmness,opt for more supportive materials like solid memory foam or latex that will conform to your body for proper spinal alignment. Gel-infused or perforated foams will help keep you cooler as memory foam is known to trap heat. Usually, foams are featured in mattress toppers.
Don't forget to consider the cover material of the mattress pad or topper. Tencel/lyocell and polyester are great at wicking away moisture if you experience night sweats.
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What's the difference between a mattress pad and a mattress topper?
Each of these pairs with your mattress to make your bed more comfortable, but they each have different design features and purposes.
✔️ Mattress padsadd a cozy top layer with a little bit of cushioning. They go on the mattress like a fitted sheet.
✔️ Mattress toppersare usually thicker and offer even more cushioning. Resting on top of your mattress, some have straps to keep them secure and others are kept in place by your fitted sheet that goes over top.
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Why trust Good Housekeeping?
Emma Seymour is the Textiles Lab associate director. She's been at Good Housekeeping for over seven years, overseeing Lab and consumer tests for all types of cooling bedding, including cooling sheets, cooling comforters and these cooling mattress pads and toppers. With a degree in Fiber Science and Apparel Design from Cornell University, she has extensive research experience and product quality assessment expertise.
Textiles Product Reviews Analyst Grace Wu updated this story based on new testing insights.
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More cooling bedding to check out:
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