The 7 Best Heated Mattress Pads for Ultimate Coziness, According to Our Tests (2024)

Best Overall

Reaks Heated Mattress Pad

What Stands Out

It has intuitive controls and dual-control heating, making it extra suitable for those who share a bed.

What Could Be Improved

The cleaning process is overly specific and tedious.

For those who share a bed, a heated mattress pad with multiple zones is necessary so both people can tailor the temperature to your unique sleeping preferences. In our testing, the Reaks Heated Mattress Pad stood out for its comfort and heating abilities. Even though this pick is not very lofty or squishy, we could barely feel the wires with our hands. We noticed that the mattress pad felt pleasant and warm on the lowest setting and definitely put out a good amount of heat on the highest setting. The heat was also evenly distributed throughout the pad. After six months of use, the mattress pad had no wear and tear, and the controllers were still performing perfectly.

For queen, king, and California king sizes, each side of the mattress pad has a separate controller that we found easy to use. There’s a simple on/off button and another button that toggles between the heat settings and timer function, which can be set from one to 12 hours. After six months of use, the controllers are still working perfectly with no signs of wear and tear.

This mattress pad effectively prevented most of the spill from leaking onto the mattress during our tests. However, we were perplexed by the manufacturer’s washing instructions, which specify that you can wash the pad for only two minutes.We're impressed by its durability, as it maintained the same soft texture after months of frequent washing.

Overall, we were impressed with this mattress pad’s performance, especially considering the price. It is comfortable, provides even heat, and outperformed many other mattress pads in the same price category and even some more expensive models during our testing.

Material: Polyester | Heat Settings: 10 | Washable: Yes | Safety Certification: ETL

Best Budget

Biddeford Blankets Quilted Electric Mattress Pad

$95 at Amazon $110 at Kohls.com $34 at Target

What Stands Out

It’s basic, affordable, and easy to use.

What Could Be Improved

The display doesn’t have adjustable brightness, which may be frustrating for light sleepers.

An affordable heated mattress pad can still create a cozy sleeping environment, so if you’re hoping to save, opt for this simple pick from Biddeford Blankets. The no-frills mattress pad has two basic controllers with illuminated buttons and easy-to-read digital displays. Unfortunately, the displays do not turn off, which may bother some sleepers.

During our testing, there was little difference in heat between the lowest and highest settings, though it was still noticeable. At its highest setting, this mattress pad reached 75 degrees Fahrenheit, which might not be warm enough for super cold nights. This blanket also has two different heating zones, with the lower half being a bit warmer than the upper half. While we feel this is a nice feature for people who suffer from cold feet (or have a partner who does), it’s unfortunately not adjustable and cannot be disabled. The apple juice stain was still prominent after our spill test, but there was no pilling or loose threads after cleaning it.

Although this heated mattress pad might not offer many customization options or bonus features, it’s a budget-friendly option and works as advertised. For someone just looking for a basic, heated mattress pad, this one is a winner.

Material: Cotton, polyester | Heat Settings: 10 | Washable: Yes | Safety Certification: ETL

See Also
The 6 Best Heated Mattress Pads of 2024, According to Our Testing I Tested the 6 Zone Heated Mattress Pad and It's a Game Changer for a Restful Night's Sleep We Tested These Heated Mattress Pads, and They'll Keep You Toasty The Best Heated Mattress Pads on the Market

Best With Settings

Sunbeam Restful Quilted Water Resistant Heated Mattress Pad

$145 at Amazon

What Stands Out

It’s easy to set up and has 12 heat settings—the most of any mattress pad we tested.

What Could Be Improved

The bulky wires are detectable and make it difficult to place the controls where you want them.

Sleep preferences can fluctuate with the weather, so finding a heated mattress pad with plenty of settings can keep you comfortable and cozy as the temperature changes. The Sunbeam Restful Quilted Heated Mattress Pad offers 12 heat selections, timer controls, and an auto shut-off function, all of which stood out to us. Our favorite things about the mattress pad are the adequate heat quality, easy-to-use controls, and overall comfort. After six months of use, the mattress pad maintained the same heating performance as it had when it was first opened, though it took slightly longer to heat up at times.

During the spill test, this pick also repelled the liquid and prevented it from reaching the mattress, making it ideal for those prone to messes or who have small children. Plus, this mattress pad can be machine-washed and dried, so you can throw it in the wash like a regular load of laundry. Even though there were no physical signs of damage post-wash, the highest temperature was noticeably lower than the initial temperature, with a drop of about four degrees.

While this one is a bit more expensive than some other budget options, we feel the comfort and heating on high make this dual-control mattress pad a worthwhile purchase. The main downside we found during testing was that the wires were too noticeable, so if you’re sensitive to any small bumps while sleeping, you should opt for another heated mattress pad on our list.

Material: Cotton | Heat Settings: 12 | Washable: Yes | Safety Certification: ETL

Best Waterproof

Serta Waterproof Heated Mattress Pad

$130 at Amazon $114 at Wayfair $118 at Walmart

What Stands Out

The waterproof material is spill-resistant and has undetectable wires.

What Could Be Improved

It doesn’t have any pre-heat settings or smart features.

Whether you like to sip your morning coffee from the comfort of your bed or have accident-prone little ones, a waterproof pad ensures that your mattress stays in mint condition. During the spill test on the Serta Waterproof Heated Mattress Pad, the liquid pooled and very easily could be blotted with paper towels. In addition to its impressive waterproofing, this heated mattress pad also has dual-zone heating capabilities, a timer, and a soft feel with hardly detectable wires.

The dual-zone heating proved particularly useful for those of us who share a bed, allowing us to adjust our own heat settings without impacting our partner. It's worth noting that there are two heat settings on each button, which made it a bit tricky to determine whether we were turning the heat on and off or adjusting it to another level. On the highest setting, we found the heat felt comparable to a heated seat in a vehicle, with a highest recorded temperature of 76 degrees Fahrenheit. The controls were simple and easy to use, and we appreciated the timer option. The screen lit up when activated and then turned off, which is a good feature if you don't want any light while sleeping.

The pad stayed in place throughout the Lab testing process, though it did loosen after two months of use, causing it to shift beneath the fitted sheet. Nevertheless, we found the mattress pad to be very comfortable. While we wish there were smart features or a pre-heat function, we still think this is a solid option for anyone who needs a waterproof heated mattress pad.

Material: Polyester, cotton | Heat Settings: 10 | Washable: Yes | Safety Certification: ETL

Warmest

Bedsure Electric Mattress Pad

$80 at Amazon

What Stands Out

It has the highest heating capabilities of any mattress pad we tested.

What Could Be Improved

There isn’t a wide range of settings to select from.

Of the 22 options we tested, the Bedsure Heated Mattress Pad had the most impressive heating capabilities. On the lowest setting, its temperature measured 79 degrees Fahrenheit—which is even warmer than some other mattress pads were on their highest mode. Once cranked to its highest setting, this pick from Bedsure reached a balmy 83 degrees Fahrenheit.

This mattress pad doesn’t have any bells and whistles, and it only has four heat settings to choose from—but it still stood out for its warmth. We were impressed with how quickly it heated up, and we appreciated the nice variance in temperature from the high to the low (5.6 degrees).

In addition to its ample heating power, this pad also impressed us with its plush texture and ability to stay in place throughout the testing process. While we could slightly feel the wiring, it did not take away from the comfort. During the spill test, there were no stains after washing. The mattress pad also maintained the same quality after six months of use. Especially at its moderate price point, this heated mattress pad is ideal for anyone who wants to be as warm as possible.

Material: Polyester | Heat Settings: 4 | Washable: Yes | Safety Certification: ETL

Most Comfortable

Perfect Fit SoftHeat Smart Heated Mattress Pad

$94 at Amazon

What Stands Out

It is affordable and soft with undetectable wires.

What Could Be Improved

It doesn’t have a wide temperature range.

Warmth is a key consideration when selecting a heated mattress pad, but if the material or wiring is uncomfortable, it can undermine the overall quality of your pad. For those primarily concerned with comfort, opt for the Perfect Fit SoftHeat Electric Mattress Pad. We found the mattress cover’s fine terry cloth texture to be cozy, though we wouldn’t say the material feels luxurious. We didn’t feel any of the wires when we were putting the mattress pad on the bed, and they were similarly undetectable while laying on the mattress.

This mattress pad was about 75 degrees Fahrenheit on its lowest temperature setting and 78 degrees Fahrenheit on its highest setting, so it left a bit to be desired in terms of the temperature range. We were satisfied with how warm it was on the highest mode, but we wished the lowest setting was a bit cooler.

It performed well in terms of durability, too, with no signs of damage or degraded heating quality after washing—plus, it stayed firmly in place throughout our testing. Even after six months of use, the mattress pad still looked and performed as if it was new. During our spill test, simply washing this mattress pad removed the stain. Even so, we recommend avoiding scrubbing when spot-treating any messes, as it could ruin the texture of the mattress pad.

Material: Polyester | Heat Settings: 10 | Washable: Yes | Safety Certification: UL

Best Deep-Pocket

Woolrich Heated Mattress Pad

$109 at Wayfair $92 at Walmart $80 at Target

What Stands Out

It stays secure on thick mattresses and won’t slide off while tossing and turning.

What Could Be Improved

It doesn’t heat above 75 degrees Fahrenheit.

With a deep 17-inch pocket, the Woolrich Sherpa Heated Mattress Pad will fit snugly on any bed, ensuring that it stays in place whether you have a thick mattress or tend to toss and turn throughout the night. In addition to its deep-pocket design, this heated mattress pad has virtually undetectable wires and a soft surface that earned stellar scores during our testing.

This mattress pad really stood out for its comfort, and we appreciated its fluffy fleece texture. We also observed that the controls and functionality of the pad were straightforward, comprehensive, and easy to operate from a lying position.

The main downfall of this pad is that the heat settings and range are limited, and the difference between lowest and highest was barely perceptible. We were only able to perceive a temperature difference when we were positioned in the middle of the bed with our arms outstretched. There was a temperature difference of about four degrees, which might not be adequate heating for cold sleepers or frigid winter months. Its heating capabilities remained consistent throughout the six-month testing period, though we did notice that the material had pilled slightly.

Material: Polyester | Heat Settings: 5 | Washable: Yes | Safety Certification: UL-tested

Final Verdict

Our favorite heated mattress pad is the Reaks Heated Mattress Pad for its easy-to-use dual controls, which reached a range of cozy temperatures in our testing. We also like its comfortable feel and reasonable price point.

For an even more affordable option, we recommend the Biddeford Blankets Quilted Electric Mattress Pad. We appreciate its no-frills design and its two separate heating zones that provide more warmth on the bottom—making it great for people with cold feet.

Our Testing Process

To find the best heated mattress pads on the market, we tested 22 popular models in our Lab and at home. We started by setting up the mattress pad, noting how well it fit the bed, whether it was secure over the mattress, and how many outlets it required. For heated mattress pads that relied on water circulation for warmth, we timed how long it took to set up the product and how challenging the process was.

Next, we used an infrared thermometer to test the heating function and temperature output, first taking a recording of the mattress pad before we turned it on. As heated mattress pads come in various designs, we tailored our tests to account for standard models as well as those with single and dual controllers or a pre-heat function.

With each type of mattress pad, we took the temperature in three different areas and recorded the average overall temperature. For mattress pads that include a pre-heat function, we started the pre-heating process and measured the temperature after 10 minutes. For pads with a single controller, we set the heat to its highest setting and recorded the temperature, assessing whether the pad hit the manufacturer’s listed range.

To evaluate mattress pads with dual controls, we set one side to its lowest setting and the other to its highest before recording the temperature separately on each side. We also lay on the bed to see if the difference in temperature on each side was distinguishable. We noted if there was a void between the heating zones or a noticeable difference between the temperature on the two sides.

After testing the temperature output, we spent five minutes lying on the beds. During this time, we observed the texture of the heated mattress pad, the detectability of the heating components, and whether they felt too hot or comfortably warm. We also used the controller and examined the ease of use, brightness, and heating indicators. If the mattress pad included smart features, we downloaded the app and made adjustments through their phone, noting how user-friendly and practical the design is. We then removed the fitted sheet to see whether the pad stayed in place or popped off. (We found the Woolrich Sherpa Heated Mattress Pad to stay in place very well, thanks to its deep 17-inch pocket.)

Since a heated mattress pad should also protect your mattress from a moderate spill or stain, we poured 1/4 cup of apple juice on the pad and let it sit for five minutes before evaluating how well it protected the mattress from the liquid.

We washed any machine-washable mattress pad according to the manufacturer's instructions. If compatible, we also tumble-dried it and noted whether it took multiple cycles to completely dry. If the heated mattress pad was spot-clean only, we blotted the apple juice stain with a wet rag and then treated it with a Tide pen if any discoloration remained.

Following the laundering process, we again fit the pad onto the bed and looked for any signs of shrinkage, wear, damage, or texture change after washing. We also re-tested the heating function and took the temperature of the pad after 10 minutes on its highest setting to see if it reached the same level of heat as it did before washing and drying.

Once the testing process was complete, we reviewed the retail price of each heated mattress pad, which ranged from $50 to $2,245, with a median price of $110. We then rated the heated mattress pad on its effectiveness, comfort, durability, and value—the latter of which was judged in conjunction with its performance in our tests and whether it functioned as advertised.

After our Lab tests were complete, we took the heated mattress pads home to evaluate their real-world performance after two months and six months of use.

The 7 Best Heated Mattress Pads for Ultimate Coziness, According to Our Tests (41)

How to Shop for Heated Mattress Pads Like a Pro

Material

Like with any bedding, the material of your heated mattress pad can play a vital role in its comfort, warmth, and durability. Most pads are made with cotton, polyester, or a blend of the two. Cotton is a breathable natural material that absorbs moisture and wicks away heat, keeping you at a comfortable temperature throughout the night. For those who prefer a mattress pad that repels moisture, opt for polyester, which is stretchier and generally more durable than cotton. If you want a heated mattress pad with the best of both materials, a blend of cotton and polyester can give you breathability and durability.

Temperature Settings

One of the benefits of using a heated mattress pad over a standard mattress pad is the variety of heat settings, allowing you to adjust the warmth according to your preferred temperature. Advanced models can have over 10 settings, while more basic ones may only have a few. The Sunbeam Restful Quilted Heated Mattress Pad, our pick for the best with settings, has 12 heat settings.

While some heated mattress pads have a wide disparity between the lowest and highest heat settings, others have a more subtle difference. Heated mattress typically reach a maximum of about 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Our warmest pick, the Bedsure Electric Mattress Pad, reached 83 degrees Fahrenheit in our testing and had a 5.6 degree difference between the lowest and highest setting.

In addition to temperature settings, some mattress pads have dual-zone heating, which allows you to adjust the heat on your side of the bed. Many of the mattress pads on our list have these capabilities, including the Serta Waterproof Heated Mattress Pad and the Reaks Heated Mattress Pad. Since these picks enable you to control each side of the bed separately, they're ideal for those who share beds and may have different temperature preferences than their partner.

Safety Rating

A UL or ETL certification is the best way to ensure that a heated mattress pad has safe, non-hazardous components. Options that have earned either certification were tested in Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratories (NRTLs) and found safe, so you can purchase them with more ease of mind. All of the heated mattress pads on our list have been tested according to the UL or ETL standards.

Care

Maintaining your heated mattress pad will require cleaning, so consider the ease of upkeep before you make your final decision. Some mattress pads are machine-washable but cannot be put in the dryer, while others are as easy to clean as a standard cotton T-shirt. Other heated mattress pads can only be spot cleaned.

If you’re shopping for a child’s bed or are someone who’s prone to spills or messes, we recommend avoiding mattress pads that are spot-clean only. The hassle of scrubbing out stains might outweigh the heating benefits, so you’d be better off with a machine-washable option.

More Heated Mattress Pads to Consider

Hyde Lane Premium Mattress Heating Pad: This dual-control heated mattress pad offers 20 heat settings to select from, which is higher than most of the others we tested. While it’s comfortable and has an adequate heat range, we found the controllers challenging to use, especially if adjusting at night. This heated mattress pad is also on the higher end price-wise.

Sleep Number Warming Layer: We found this heated mattress pad to be simple and easy to use. While it was comfortable and provided warmth, it was hard to tell the difference between the low and high temperatures. And since this pad was above the median price, we thought that there were more affordable options that performed similarly in our tests.

The 7 Best Heated Mattress Pads for Ultimate Coziness, According to Our Tests (42)

Questions You Might Ask

What is the best material for a heated mattress pad?

The best material for a heated mattress pad is cotton, as it offers breathability and absorbs moisture to keep you warm but not overheated. That said, cotton pads are typically pricier than polyester. So if you want a more budget-friendly heated mattress pad, we recommend looking for a polyester option, which provides a bit more durability and stretchiness.

What’s the difference between a heated mattress pad and an electric blanket?

While heated mattress pads and electric blankets function similarly, they can produce different results. Heated mattress pads provide better overall heat retention, as the bedding on top of the pad creates insulation. They are also less likely to become bunched up or tangled as you sleep, and they’re better at hiding the feeling of heating elements as they go beneath your sheets. But if you want a heated element to use in your living room and your bedroom, an electric blanket is more transportable and versatile than a heated pad.

How long do heated mattress pads last?

The longevity of your heated mattress pad depends primarily on how well you care for it, with an approximate lifetime of five years. “Be sure to properly maintain the mattress pad and its electrical cord,” says Deerwester. “Look for dark, charred, or frayed spots or one where the electric cord is cracked or frayed. Replace any worn or old heated mattress pads.” Also, keep in mind that frequent runs through the washer and dryer may cause your pad to break down more quickly.

Can you leave a heated mattress pad on overnight?

Heated mattress pads are generally fine to leave on all night, as long as you don't intend to sleep longer than 10-12 hours. If used for longer than 12 hours, you may run the risk of overheating or damaging your sheets.

Luckily, most heated mattress pads have a 10-hour auto-shut off, so you won't have to worry about forgetting to turn it off. Some even have more advanced timer capabilities, allowing you to program exactly how long you want the heat on. Our best overall pick, the Reaks Heated Mattress Pad, actually has an adjustable controller with one- to 12-hour auto shut off functions.

Take Our Word for It

This article was written by Quinn Gawronski, associate commerce editor for Real Simple, who has three years of experience writing and editing product reviews and roundups, and updated by Jamie Fischer, a commerce writer for Real Simple. To compile this list, we tested 22 heated mattress pads in our Lab and evaluated them on effectiveness, comfort, durability, and value. For expert tips, we consulted Brianne Deerwester, communications coordinator for the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI).

What Is Real Simple Selects?

Next to each product on this list, you may have noticed a Real Simple Selects seal of approval. Any product appearing alongside that seal has been vetted by our team—put through tests and graded on its performance to earn a spot on our list. Although we buy most of the products we test, sometimes we do get samples from companies if purchasing a product ourselves isn’t an option. All products go through the same rigorous process, whether they are purchased or sent by the company.

Love our recommendations? Check out more products that have earned the Real Simple Selects, from humidifiers to cordless vacuums.