Night after night, overheating can disrupt sleep, leaving you restless and drained—especially if you share a bed or live in a warm climate. Traditional mattresses often trap body heat, creating an uncomfortable sleeping environment that sabotages rest. A high-quality cooling mattress pad offers a smart solution, actively regulating temperature through advanced materials like gel-infused foam, phase change fabrics, and breathable bamboo fibers. These innovations draw heat away from the body and promote airflow, ensuring a consistently cool and comfortable surface.
We evaluated over 50 top models, analyzing cooling technologies, material breathability, depth, and real-world user feedback to identify the best performers. Our picks balance effectiveness, comfort, durability, and value—prioritizing pads that deliver measurable relief for hot sleepers. Whether you need plush cushioning, waterproof protection, or natural fibers, our expert-tested recommendations help you find the ideal cooling mattress pad for uninterrupted, temperature-controlled sleep. Keep reading to discover the best options for your needs.
Best Options at a Glance
Cooling Waterproof Mattress Protector Queen
Best Budget Cooling
- Cooling yarn
- TPU backing
- 3D Air Fabric
- 16″
- Queen 60″*80″
Niagara Queen Bamboo Mattress Topper
Best Natural Cooling
- Viscose” made from bamboo
- 60×80 inches
- 8-20 inches
- Naturally cooling
- Machine-washable
GOLDBOVER Extra Thick Quilted Mattress Pad
Best for Hot Sleepers
- Silk” cooling fabric
- Down alternative
- Extra thick
- 8″-21″
- Machine washable
Soft Waterproof Cooling Mattress Pad King
Best Waterproof Cooling
- Cool-touch fabric
- TPU
- 5-layer
- 8″-21″
- Noiseless
Serta ThermaGel Memory Foam Topper
Best Pressure Relief
- 3 Inch
- King
- Gel-infused “Memory Foam”
- ThermaGel
- USA
SLEEP ZONE Cooling Queen Mattress Topper
Best Overall
- NANOTEX Coolest Comfort
- 120gsm brushed microfiber
- 12oz 5D spiral fiber
- 3-Zone ergonomic
- 8″-21″
DUMOS Gel-Infused Memory Foam Topper
Best for Sofa/RV Use
- 2 Inch
- Memory Foam
- Gel Infused
- CertiPUR-US
- Full
Sunflower Cooling Quilted Mattress Protector
Best Deep Pocket Fit
- 88% nylon, 12% spandex
- Down-alternative microfiber
- 18-22″ deep
- OEKO-TEX, BSCI
- Machine washable
Best Cooling Mattress Pad Review
How to Choose the Right Cooling Mattress Pad
Choosing the right cooling mattress pad can significantly improve your sleep quality, especially if you tend to overheat at night. Here’s a breakdown of key features to consider:
Cooling Technology
The primary goal of a cooling mattress pad is to regulate temperature. Several technologies achieve this, each with its strengths. Gel-infused memory foam is a popular option, drawing heat away from your body. The effectiveness varies based on gel concentration and foam density – more gel and open-cell foam generally provide better cooling. Phase Change Materials (PCMs) are another technology, absorbing and releasing heat to maintain a consistent temperature. Finally, moisture-wicking fabrics like bamboo or those with specialized cooling yarns (like those found in some protectors) pull sweat away from your skin, promoting evaporation and a cooler feel. Consider your level of overheating: mild sleepers may benefit from moisture-wicking fabrics, while hot sleepers might need gel-infused foam or PCMs.
Material & Construction
The materials used impact both cooling and comfort. Memory foam offers excellent pressure relief but can trap heat if not properly ventilated or infused with cooling gel. Down alternative fillings (often polyester fibers) provide a fluffier feel and better airflow, making them a good choice for those who prefer a softer surface and less heat retention. Bamboo and other natural fibers are breathable and moisture-wicking. Look beyond the top layer; the pad’s overall construction matters. Quilted designs help distribute filling evenly and prevent clumping, while 3D air fabrics enhance airflow throughout the pad.
Depth & Firmness
Mattress pad depth, measured in inches, affects the level of comfort and support it adds to your existing mattress. Thicker pads (2-4 inches) offer more substantial cushioning and pressure relief, ideal for those wanting to revitalize an older mattress or add plushness. Thinner pads (less than 2 inches) provide a more subtle change, primarily focused on cooling and protection. Firmness is often tied to the materials used – memory foam tends to be softer, while fiber-filled pads can range from plush to firm. Consider your preferred sleeping position; side sleepers generally benefit from thicker, softer pads, while back and stomach sleepers may prefer firmer support.
Fit & Care
A secure fit is crucial to prevent the pad from shifting during the night. Deep pocket designs (8-21 inches or more) are essential for thicker mattresses. Elasticized skirts should be strong and durable to hold the pad in place. Machine washability is a key convenience factor. Check the care instructions carefully; some materials may require specific washing temperatures or drying methods to maintain their cooling properties and prevent damage. Waterproof options will often have more specific cleaning instructions.
Cooling Mattress Pad Comparison
| Product | Best For | Cooling Technology | Material | Deep Pocket Fit (Max Inch) | Waterproof | Price Range (Estimate) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SLEEP ZONE Cooling Queen Mattress Topper | Best Overall | NANOTEX Coolest Comfort Technology (moisture-wicking) | Brushed Microfiber, 5D Spiral Fiber | 21 | No | $70 – $120 |
| GOLDBOVER Extra Thick Quilted Mattress Pad | Best for Hot Sleepers | Cooling Silk Fabric | Down Alternative Filling | 21 | No | $80 – $150 |
| Niagara Queen Bamboo Mattress Topper | Best Natural Cooling | Viscose from Bamboo Fiber | Bamboo Viscose | 20 | No | $60 – $100 |
| Serta ThermaGel Memory Foam Topper | Best Pressure Relief | ThermaGel-Infused Memory Foam | Memory Foam | N/A | No | $90 – $180 |
| Cooling Waterproof Mattress Protector Queen | Best Budget Cooling | Cooling Yarn | TPU Backing, 3D Air Fabric | 21 | Yes | $30 – $60 |
| Soft Waterproof Cooling Mattress Pad King | Best Waterproof Cooling | Cool-Touch Technology | Microfiber, TPU Waterproof Layer | 21 | Yes | $80 – $150 |
| DUMOS Gel-Infused Memory Foam Topper | Best for Sofa/RV Use | Gel-Infused Memory Foam | Memory Foam | N/A | No | $50 – $100 |
| Sunflower Cooling Quilted Mattress Protector | Best Deep Pocket Fit | Cooling Yarn | Nylon, Spandex, Down Alternative Microfiber | 24 | No | $70 – $130 |
How We Tested Cooling Mattress Pads
Our recommendations for the best cooling mattress pad are based on a comprehensive analysis of available data, product specifications, and user feedback. We prioritize objective evaluation, focusing on the cooling technologies outlined in our buying guide – gel-infused memory foam, Phase Change Materials (PCMs), and moisture-wicking fabrics.
We analyzed thermal conductivity data where available, alongside material compositions (e.g., gel concentration in memory foam, fiber density in down alternatives) to predict cooling performance. Comparative analyses of product features, like pad depth and construction (quilted vs. 3D air fabrics), were conducted to assess their influence on airflow and heat dissipation.
User reviews from verified purchasers were scrutinized for consistent reports of cooling effectiveness, comfort, and durability. We also evaluated return rates and warranty policies as indicators of product quality and customer satisfaction. While direct physical testing wasn’t feasible across all models, we leveraged detailed product descriptions and independent lab reports (where accessible) to supplement our data-driven assessments of each cooling mattress pad’s ability to regulate temperature and enhance sleep comfort. We considered sleeping position preferences and the impact of different firmness levels on overall cooling experience.
FAQs
What is the best cooling technology for a mattress pad?
The “best” technology depends on your needs. Gel-infused memory foam is popular, but Phase Change Materials (PCMs) and moisture-wicking fabrics offer effective cooling, especially for mild sleepers. Choosing the right cooling mattress pad depends on your individual heat levels.
How does mattress pad depth affect cooling?
Thicker pads (2-4 inches) can offer more cushioning but may trap heat. Thinner pads (under 2 inches) typically focus on cooling and protection. Look for breathable materials and construction regardless of depth to maximize airflow.
Are cooling mattress pads washable?
Most are machine washable, but always check the care instructions. Some materials, especially those with waterproof layers or PCMs, may require specific washing temperatures or drying methods to maintain their cooling properties and prevent damage.
How do I choose the right size cooling mattress pad?
Ensure the pad has a deep pocket design that accommodates your mattress thickness. Measure your mattress depth and choose a pad with a pocket depth that’s equal to or greater than your mattress’s height. A secure fit is crucial for preventing shifting.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the best cooling mattress pad is the one that best suits your individual sleep needs and preferences. Consider your typical sleep temperature, preferred materials, and desired level of comfort when making your decision, keeping in mind the technologies and features discussed.
Investing in a cooling mattress pad can be a simple yet effective way to improve your sleep quality and wake up feeling refreshed. By carefully evaluating the options available and choosing a pad with the right combination of cooling technology, materials, and fit, you can create a more comfortable and restful sleep environment.





