Have you ever
wondered whether there’s a difference between a woollen
underlay and a wool topper? If you have, you’re not alone. While
many of us are now aware of the benefits that come with using woollen bedding,
there are so many different products available that you can be forgiven if
you’re feeling a little confused. So, we’re going to explain what makes an
underlay an underlay and when a topper is a topper!
You Can See the Difference
Surprisingly, perhaps the easiest way to decide whether it’s a wool
underlay or a topper is to take a look at the construction. An
underlay is usually fitted to your mattress with a cotton skirt and has wool
visible on the outside, like a cosy sheep fleece. A topper, on the other hand,
has a more quilt like appearance with a quilted cotton cover encasing the
woollen filling. Four corner straps are used to fit your topper to the mattress
and stop it from moving around.
When to Use
an Underlay in Preference to a Topper
Both underlays
and toppers are used on top of the mattress and under the sheet to provide
extra cushioning and to extend the life and cleanliness of your mattress by
protecting it from stains from sweat, moisture and spills. But which one should
you use?
Underlays help
to distribute your body weight more evenly and may assist in reducing pressure
on specific body areas. Plus, when they are made of wool, they help your body
to remain at its optimum temperature. During the winter, the wool will help to
keep you cosy while in summer, the underlay can be reversed so that the cotton
side is uppermost. Woollen underlays tend to be more expensive than wool
toppers as they are reversible.
In comparison,
while toppers do offer extra softness and comfort, they are primarily designed
to give your mattress protection from sweat and dirt. Toppers are usually not
reversible, and as the woollen interior is encased in a cotton cover, you don’t
get the benefits that you would from lying directly on the wool; although this
may be preferable for anyone who may have an allergy to wool. In general,
toppers cost less than a similar size and quality of underlay and weigh less
too.
The Choice is Yours
Whether you
prefer to buy an underlay or topper will usually be based on budget and personal
preference. You may pay more for an underlay, but you’ll benefit from sleeping
on a woollen surface. If you’re looking for a less expensive option or if you
have a wool allergy, a topper may work better for you. But whether you choose a
topper or an underlay, if it’s made from 100% Australia wool you can look
forward to a more comfortable and natural sleeping experience.
