If you really don’t want to spend the money to buy a new mattress, your best bet would be to buy a new mattress topper instead. That’s not to say that mattress toppers are for this reason only, they actually provide you with a way to make your bed more comfortable, either softer or firmer. Since you’ll be placing the topper right on top of your mattress, it will give you more padding, which could make a difference in your quality of sleep. Mattress toppers come in a range of prices, depending on the material they’re made of, but even the most expensive wouldn’t cost anywhere near the price of a new mattress.
Before you go out and buy a mattress topper, you should think about why you feel you need one. If you have certain medical or health conditions like sciatica that cause you pain or soreness, a good mattress topper made of memory foam or latex might be perfect. These are the type of materials that conform to your body to reduce the pressure on your most sensitive areas. Many people describe they feel like they’re floating on a cloud with these.
If you don’t have any real medical concerns and just wish your mattress was a bit thicker even though you’re fine with how firm and bouncy it is, you may want to choose a down or cotton filled topper. This wouldn’t change the feel of your mattress, it would just give you a little more padding. Cotton works well for people living in a hot climate since it breathes quite well. If you live in a cold climate, you may want a down or wool topper because either of these would keep you nice and warm.
Once you’ve determined exactly why you want a mattress topper, you’ll need to decide how thick it should be. If you sleep on your side, weigh a bit more than an average adult, or trying to get a few more years out of your old mattress, you should get a topper that’s thick. Some models are up to 8” thick, so you should have no trouble finding one you like. However, if your bed is already high and you don’t want to climb any higher just getting into it, you can find good toppers just 2” thick.
Below we’ve listed this year’s choices of 2019’s Best Mattress Toppers for Every Sleep Position. We’ve also included a detailed Buyers’ Guide: How to Find a Mattress Topper to Suit Your Needs.
The Best Mattress Toppers
- Red Nomad: the best for cooling properties
- Electrowarmth: the best heated option
- ViscoSoft: the most durable choice
- LUCID: the most affordable option
- Sleep On Latex: the best dunlop natural latex mattress topper
- Ultimate Dreams: the best Talalay latex option
- Sleep Innovations: the softest mattress topper
- ExceptionalSheets: the best for hypoallergenic properties
- Puredown: the best feather option
- Organic Textiles: the most eco-friendly choice
Table of Contents
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Mattress Toppers Comparison Table
Picture | Product | Key Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 | - Made in the USA, CertiPUR-US certified | ||
 | - Ten warming settings | ||
 | - Medium-firm support, exceptional contouring and motion isolation | ||
 | - Medium-soft memory foam relieves pressure points | ||
 | - 100% all-natural durable latex foam | ||
 | - Provides support and pressure relief | ||
| - Exceptional comfort, support, and breathability | ||
| - Keeps you cool at night with excellent breathability | ||
| - Soft 100% cotton cover | ||
| - Made with organic Australian wool fill |
Mattress Toppers Reviews
Red Nomad Review: The Best for Cooling Properties
- Made in the USA, CertiPUR-US certified
- Enhanced Cool Cycle Polymer design to keep sleepers cool
- Relieves pain by reducing pressure points
Price:
Many people get hot and sweaty in their sleep, so staying cool is a priority. This is what the premium Red Nomad mattress topper does. It contains an enhanced cool cycle polymer that is specifically designed to trap the cool air inside while keeping heat out - making it the best mattress topper for cooling on our list. This eliminates hot, sweaty nights so that you can sleep comfortably and wake up fully refreshed.
This topper is also very good at reducing pressure points to relieve a chronically sore neck or back. Whether you sleep on your side, back or stomach, it gives you the needed support for a good night’s sleep. What’s also great, the topper is sized 1” shorter on each side to accommodate snug placement of your fitted sheets.
Red Nomad comprises high-quality memory foam and is CertiPUR-US Certified for your safety. Furthermore, it’s made in the USA.
Electrowarmth Review: The Best Heated Option
- Ten warming settings
- Plush quilted polyester cover
- Multiple single- and dual-sided options
Price:
The Electrowarmth Heated Mattress Pad keeps your bed evenly warm all night long. It lulls you to sleep with soothing warmth from below that is completely relaxing, like soaking in a warm tub. All the day’s aches and pains simply melt away. This is one of the best mattress toppers for people suffering from fibromyalgia and/or arthritis.
Dual-sided controls are the best option for couples since each side can be set at a different temperature. The dual-control pad comes in a total of nine sizes, which include Double, Queen, King, and California King with Short and Extra Long options. It also comes in several sizes for single sleepers with just one control. While the dual-control option is fairly expensive, it will save on utility costs since it allows you to turn down the thermostat.
You can program the warmth to your desired temperature as there are 10 different settings ranging from mild to very warm with the quick heat-up feature. The system provides continual warmth throughout the night and will automatically shut off after 10 hours for power conservation, user convenience, and extra safety.
It’s made with a fitted skirt on all sides to hold the pad in place on mattresses of up to 13” thick. The plush quilted polyester cover is nice and soft. What’s also great about this mattress topper is that it is machine washable and dryable, so you can easily keep it clean. Electrowarmth offers their customers a 30-night trial plus a 1-year warranty.
ViscoSoft Review: The Most Durable Option
- Medium-firm support, exceptional contouring and motion isolation
- Gel-infused foam plus bamboo rayon cover minimize heat retention
- Anti-slip mesh and corner straps keep it in place
Price:
ViscoSoft’s Select high-density topper is a great option for people who want a medium-firm supportive sleep surface with a level of responsiveness that can reduce their back pain.
This topper consists of 3” of high-density (3.5 lbs. per cubic foot) memory foam, which is thick enough to cushion even the sharpest of pressure points. This density is also sufficiently durable to ensure that the topper will last longer than many other memory foam options. This is one of the reasons why we picked ViscoSoft as one of the best mattress toppers on our list.
The medium-firm mattress topper offers just the right amount of support so you can sleep comfortably without sinking too far down into the foam. Because it isn’t too hard, it works well for all sleeping positions. It’s also great for couples because of motion isolation, so when your partner changes position, you won’t be disturbed. The memory foam is infused with cooling gel and maximizes airflow to prevent heat retention (a persistent issue with memory foam) so that you can enjoy a cooler sleep.
To keep the topper in place, all four corners have elastic straps, plus there is an anti-slip mesh on the bottom, to further keep it from slipping and sliding when you or your partner move around in bed.
An extremely soft and breathable bamboo rayon cover can easily be removed, and machine washed making for easy cleaning. ViscoSoft offers buyers free shipping on their order, along with a 60-day sleep trial, so you can test out the topper on your own mattress. Additionally, you get a 3-year warranty on materials and/or manufacturing defects.
LUCID Review: The Most Affordable Option
- Medium-soft memory foam relieves pressure points
- Gel-infused ventilated memory foam minimizes heat buildup
- Price is affordable for most people
Price:
People seeking a quick, affordable way to make their bed more comfortable can turn to the LUCID memory foam mattress topper. Its basic design will provide softness while still adding support to your mattress.
LUCID is made of gel-infused memory foam 2” thick, but if you want something thicker, you can opt for a 3” of thickness for added comfort. Both options will conform to your body, but the 3” topper will allow you to sink more deeply into the foam, cradling your body a little more than the 2” topper.
While the memory foam is molding to your body, it relieves the pain of pressure points, but still offers a more supportive sleeping surface. If your mattress is just too firm, the LUCID memory foam topper will add the soft hug you need to sleep more comfortably, without sacrificing support.
Medium soft memory foam adds the perfect layer of plush comfort to any hard mattress. If you sleep with a partner, it’s conforming nature will prevent you from being disturbed when your partner moves around or gets out of bed. Unlike most memory foam toppers, this one is ventilated to improve breathability and airflow for a cooler, more comfortable sleep.
LUCID has an affordable price point, making this one of the least expensive ways to enhance your bed. It comes with a 30-day return policy, so you can take it home and try it out on your bed. Buyers also get a 3-year warranty on this product.
Sleep On Latex Review: The Best Dunlop Natural Latex Mattress Topper
- 100% all-natural durable latex foam
- Soft yet supportive with a firmness rating of 20 ILD
- Complies with the most stringent VOC standards worldwide
Price:
The Pure Green mattress topper contains 100% all-natural latex foam, and nothing else. There are no toxic chemicals used to manufacture the topper, which means it’s safe and environmentally friendly. These toppers have undergone extensive testing by a number of highly regarded international labs and have been found to comply with the most stringent VOC standards across the world.
The foam in this topper is open-celled with tiny chambers of air running throughout the foam, which increases breathability. Although a latex topper won’t necessarily make your bed cooler, a topper 2” to 3” thick can act as a barrier between you and a warm memory foam mattress. Furthermore, the Sleep On Latex Pure Green topper is perfect for anyone who suffers from allergies because it’s hypoallergenic, dust mite resistant, and anti-microbial.
The latex foam in these toppers is made with the Dunlop process, resulting in a springy feel without being bouncy like the Talalay latex. Customers love that it adds the right amount of softness to a mattress that they feel is too firm. While adding softness, it still offers sufficient support to prevent you from sinking too far into the surface. It’s especially great for side sleepers with a mattress that’s too firm and exacerbates their hip and shoulder pain.
You can choose from 1” to 3” in thickness, and the topper is available for any size or type of mattress. While the Pure Green Natural Latex Foam is one of the most durable bedding foams in the world, it does come with a hefty price tag. However, all-natural latex foam surpasses polyurethane or memory foam in long-lasting durability, so it is definitely worth the price.
Ultimate Dreams Review: The Best Talalay Latex Option
- Provides support and pressure relief
- Hypoallergenic, durable and long-lasting
- Breathability helps minimize body heat
Price:
“Ultimate Dreams” – the name itself perfectly describes this incredible mattress topper. The latex foam is processed using the Talalay method, which produces the highest quality latex. It conforms perfectly to your body to provide the perfect combination of comfort and support you need to fall asleep.
Talalay latex offers far more pressure point relief than standard foam or fiber materials. You will not sink way down into this topper because the 3” blended latex supports you perfectly while soothing away pressure point pain. Plush and resilient, the Ultimate Dreams latex topper comes in three levels of firmness.
The soft latex topper has an Impression Load Deflection (ILD) level of 19, which is nice and soft. The medium topper has an ILD of 28, which is perfect when you need some added softness but mainly trying to relieve pressure point pain. The firm topper adds pressure point relief but without any added softness.
Latex is among the most durable materials ever made for bedding products. In fact, Talalay latex is 4 times more breathable than Dunlop latex, memory foam, or polyurethane foam. This topper is not only durable and long-lasting, but also hypoallergenic, antibacterial, and resists mold, mildew, and dust mites. It comes with a naturally breathable bamboo fabric cover and fits right on top of your mattress. Ultimate Dreams is proudly made in the USA.
Sleep Innovations Review: The Softest Mattress Topper
- Exceptional comfort, support, and breathability
- The fiber-filled quilted top adds even more softness
- Gel-infused memory foam draws heat from your body for a cooler sleep
Price:
With Sleep Innovations incredibly soft and comfy mattress topper, you can’t help but fall asleep faster and sleep more soundly than you ever have in your life. This pillow-like mattress topper is 4” thick and perfect for any sleep position. The only downside to this topper is that you won’t want to get out of bed!
What makes Sleep Innovations so different is that it has 2 separate layers, each 2” thick. One is made of quilted fiberfill, while the other is filled with memory foam. The soft cushy layer of fiberfill can’t be beaten for comfort, and the gel-infused memory foam provides the support you need to keep your body properly aligned and relieve pressure point pain. Both layers are covered with a machine-washable cover that holds them snugly in place.
This sublime soft topper has been shown to be the best mattress topper for people recovering from illness or injury, due to its therapeutic properties. As soft as it is, this topper provides excellent pressure point relief while giving you a dreamy night’s sleep. The gel-infused memory foam keeps you cooler throughout the night while improving airflow and breathability.
This USA made topper is CertiPUR-US certified, comes with a 10-year limited warranty, and will arrive vacuum packed for easy shipping.
ExceptionalSheets Review: The Best for Hypoallergenic Properties
- Keeps you cool at night with excellent breathability
- Synthetic down RevoLoft Cluster -Fiberfill is exceptionally soft
- Highly breathable, hypoallergenic bamboo rayon cover
Price:
If you have allergies and are looking for a top-quality mattress pad that is not only hypoallergenic but is soft and breathable, ExceptionalSheets may be perfect. This topper is filled with hypoallergenic RefoLoft Cluster Fiber, which is as soft as down. The cover is a silky soft hypoallergenic bamboo blend that is highly breathable to keep your body at the right temperature for a comfortable night’s sleep.
RevoLoft is an innovative fiberfill that feels just like duck or goose down feathers, but without the poking or allergic reactions. It has a dreamy soft feel to make your bed more comfortable than ever so that you can get a good night’s sleep. Whether you’re sleeping on an innerspring mattress or one made of memory foam or latex, you can certainly soften it up with this ExceptionalSheets mattress topper.
The luxurious hypoallergenic cover is made of a 160-thread-count bamboo blend fabric with a double baffle box needle stitch that prevents the RevoLoft filling from moving around. It also has a stretchy fitted skirt that can snuggly fit any mattress up to 18” thick. Aside from the features already mentioned, what makes this one of the best mattress toppers on our list is that it’s been laboratory tested, earning the Consumer Product Safety Commission Certification of 16 CFR Part 1632 that proves it was made with no harmful flame-retardant chemicals.
The topper is fully machine-washable and dryer safe. ExceptionalSheets guarantees the quality of this product with a 100% money-back guarantee if it does not meet your needs. With its high-quality makeup and very affordable price, this is a great choice for anyone wanting a more comfortable bed.
Puredown Review: The Best Feather Option
- Soft 100% cotton cover
- OXIPOWER Certification for Responsible Down Standard
- Down and feather fill is recyclable and eco-friendly
Price:
The purpose of a mattress topper is to make the bed more comfortable with a soft yet supportive layer that will improve sleep quality. To achieve this, Puredown developed its own feather filled mattress topper, which is made with a soft 100% cotton cover for even more comfort.
What makes this mattress topper so unique is that the top layer comprises 75% natural white goose down, and the bottom layer consists of natural white goose feathers. All feathers are carefully selected before being thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. Lightweight and odorless, this mattress topper is in very high demand.
As with other top brands, Puredown uses a double baffle box needle stitch to prevent the down and feather fill from shifting. The cover is also elastic so that it can easily fit over almost any mattress and comes in a variety of standard mattress sizes.
Puredown adheres to the Responsible Down Standard in their manufacturing process and has earned the OXIPOWER Certification for passing the test for content, material, and durability.
Organic Textiles Review: The Most Eco-Friendly Choice
- Made with organic Australian wool fill
- Organic cotton cover
- Highly breathable and absorbs moisture
Price:
The Organic Textiles Australian Wool Mattress topper with its organic cotton cover is completely free of toxic chemicals and pesticides. This means you and your family can have the healthiest beds possible. Both the topper and cover are made of highly breathable materials, which provide excellent temperature neutrality all year long.
Australian wool is an amazing natural fiber, one that naturally resists mold, mildew, dust mites, and other allergens. It is even naturally fire-resistant, so no chemical flame retardants are needed. Natural wool also absorbs oil and moisture, which is then released into the air keeping you dry and comfortable throughout the night. These properties make this wool mattress toper excellent for year-round use because it will keep you warm in the winter and cool and dry in spring, summer, and fall.
Organic Naturalscomes with corner straps to keep the topper comfortably in place. Toppers without straps often slip and slide even under a fitted sheet, which can be very disruptive.
This is one of the best mattress toppers for everyone because it is completely non-toxic, is made of 100% organic Australian wool, and has a cover made of 100% organic cotton. All of these qualities contribute to the incredible comfort and support it provides compared to other cheaply made blended wool toppers that can start deteriorating within just a few months. The Organic Textiles Australian Wool Mattress Topper will last for years. Being just 1” thick, it works great for people who like their toppers on the thinner side.
Buyers’ Guide: How to Shop for a Mattress Topper
A good mattress topper can make your bed so much more comfortable than it already is. There are quite a few variations on the market today, so before you start shopping for one, you need to know what to look for. Some are just placed on top of the mattress, but the best mattress toppers come with corner straps or a stretchy fitted skirt so that they stay securely in place. The material in mattress toppers can be memory foam, latex, polyester, feathers, wool, or a combination thereof. As with most products, prices vary depending on quality and availability.
This buyers’ guide will examine the purpose of mattress toppers, the special features of each topper type, the pros and cons of using them, and some helpful tips for taking good care of your investment.
Purpose of a Mattress Topper
Technically speaking, a mattress topper is a separate layer of cushioning, which is typically added on top of a mattress.
Toppers are often used to make the sleep surface more comfortable if the mattress is too firm or too soft. But they do more than just add comfort. They can relieve pressure and pain and make the bed cooler for a more comfortable night’s sleep. Some topper types, like the ones filled with memory foam or latex, come in a variety of thicknesses to suit different sleep positions, whereas other types may be limited in terms of thickness options, but most are sufficiently thick to change the feel of the mattress underneath.
How durable and long-lasting the topper depends on the materials it’s been made of. Memory foam or latex generally last longer than wool, fibers or feathers. While prices vary, most are in the medium to expensive range. Mattress toppers come in all standard mattress sizes as well as specialty sizes for cribs, RVs, college dorm beds, and even sofa-beds.
Differences Between a Mattress Pad, Topper, Protector & Encasement
People are confused, wondering if there is any difference between a mattress pad, topper, protector, or encasement. Here’s a quick description of each:
Encasement
An encasement is often used to protect mattresses from bed bugs, so you will often see these on hotel beds. If you’ve ever had bed bugs, you may want to play it safe and cover your mattress with an encasement.
Protector
Mattress protectors are designed to protect the mattress from bed-wetting or to protect the sleeper from having an allergic reaction to the mattress. Some pads and toppers also serve these functions.
Pad
Mattress pads are typically quite inexpensive because they’re much thinner than a topper. While not really adding a lot of comfort, they do have some properties that a lot of toppers are missing, including special cooling and heating features. Most pads are made of polyester or cotton and designed to fit under a bottom fitted sheet rather than sitting on top of a mattress. It really is a matter of personal preference; some people like a mattress pad while others prefer a topper.
Topper
A mattress topper is going to cost more, be thicker and more cushiony than a typical pad. Toppers offer the mattress underneath some protection from contamination, but that’s not their main purpose. Generally, toppers are designed to make the sleeping surface more comfortable by adding a layer of cushioning on top.
Types of Mattress Toppers
Cotton & Polyester
You can get cotton or polyester filled mattress toppers, although these materials are often mixed together in the filling. Both are easy to keep clean, which is a huge benefit over other materials. The problem is that they are not necessarily durable, so don’t expect a topper filled with cotton or polyester or both to last very long.
Wool
If the primary reason why you are getting a mattress topper is allergies prevention, you should consider getting a wool topper. Wool is a natural material that is resistant to most bedroom allergens. It also feels nice and warm during cold winters and keeps you cool in summer. Wool mattress toppers are durable and long-lasting; however, they are quite expensive, too.
Down
Down is the extremely light soft feathers that come from the underside of geese and ducks. Some brands describe their down toppers as the ideal “feather bed.” At its best, down is extremely comforting, but because it is so soft, it often bunches up during the night. Another downside is the high cost compared to other options.
Feather
Mattress toppers filled with goose feathers will definitely soften up a mattress that’s too firm. However, not everyone loves them, especially people who are allergic to feathers. Plus, feathers are sharp on one end, and it’s no fun getting poked the middle of the night. Regarding price, it varies quite a bit for some reason.
Latex
Latex toppers basically consist of a foam made from latex rubber. Much like memory foam, latex is responsive and compresses when pressure is applied. However, latex bounces back quickly when the pressure is removed, so it’s a more resilient material. As a result, people don’t get that feeling of being “stuck” way down in the surface and don’t complain about overheating as much. One downside of latex is that it won’t contour to the shape of your body as much as memory foam, so it does not relieve pressure point pain the way memory foam does. You’ll likely spend more on a latex topper than one made of standard foam.
Memory Foam
Memory foam is a very popular bedding product because it is soft and supportive at the same time. This is viscoelastic foam that responds directly to the pressure that is put on it, so it contours to the shape of your body, providing support where it’s needed. It also helps keep the spine in alignment and works well for couples because when one moves, the other won’t feel the motion. However, there are some disadvantages to memory foam. Some users feel they sink too far down into it, making them feel “swallowed up.” Also, standard memory foam is not very breathable, so by contouring to your body, it can cause overheating. Another complaint is that memory foam bounces back to resume its original shape quite slowly, so some users think it’s harder to move around on a memory foam topper, impeding their intimacy.
Cooling Gel
With a cooling gel topper, the fundamental material is viscoelastic foam but mixed in with beads filled with cooling gel. Although there is no scientific proof that this makes sleepers cooler, many people claim it does when compared to sleeping on toppers made of standard memory foam.
Who Would Benefit Most from Using a Mattress Topper?
There can be advantages and disadvantages to using mattress toppers. This is why certain groups of people may benefit more than others given their health needs or circumstances;
People Who are Bothered When Their Partner Moves Around in Bed
If you wake up when your partner moves around in bed or he/she is bothered by your movements, a mattress topper with excellent motion isolation may be the solution.
People Who Want to Make Their Sofa Bed More Comfortable
Sofa beds are known for being lumpy and uncomfortable. Placing a thick topper on your sofa bed can make it a lot more inviting.
Hosts Who Want to Make Their Guests More Comfortable
If you have an old bed in a guest room that’s hardly used, you may want to get a mattress topper, so the bed is more comfortable for your guests.
RV Owners Who Want a More Comfortable Bed
RVs do not typically come with high-quality beds. If you want to improve the quality of your RV bed so that it’s more supportive and/or comfortable, a mattress topper can dramatically improve the situation.
People Who Have a Bed That’s Been Provided to Them
If you are renting a furnished apartment or are a student assigned to a furnished dorm room, your bed is being provided to you. If the mattress is not comfortable, you can buy a topper to adjust the way it feels at a low cost.
People Who Want to Make Their Mattress Softer
There is no easier way to make a hard mattress softer than by purchasing a softer feeling mattress topper. Plus, it is certainly much less expensive than buying a new mattress.
Pros and Cons of Using a Mattress Topper
The right topper can make an incredible difference for someone with an uncomfortable bed, people who often get hot and sweaty during the night, and those who wake up in pain almost every morning. There are also less obvious advantages, such as better responsiveness for sex and less noise.
Pros
Cooling Effect
If you sleep on a memory foam mattress, you are likely getting hot and sweaty at night because memory foam retains body heat. A breathable mattress topper that dissipates heat can definitely improve the situation by keeping you cool.
Less Expensive
While high-quality mattresses on the market can last 10 or 15 years, they may come with a price tag in excess of $1000. Most people cannot afford to pay that much to make their beds more comfortable.
This is when a mattress topper comes to play. You get the benefit of improved comfort, without the hefty price tag. Even if you buy a new topper every couple of years or so, it would still be a lot less expensive than buying a new mattress.
Better Sex
Aside from toppers made of memory foam, which are slow to respond to movement, most mattress toppers are responsive enough for sex.
Mattress Protection
We spend a good third of our life in bed sleeping, which understandably takes a toll on our mattress over time. Although mattress toppers are meant to provide added comfort, they can also provide a protective function, keeping the mattress from becoming stained, soiled, or damaged.
Increased Durability
A topper can help your mattress last longer by reducing sagging and indentations in the top layer.
Little Noise
Aside from feather-filled toppers that can make a rustling sound, most toppers make very little, if any, noise when bearing weight.
Dual Comfort Options
If you sleep with a partner and you both prefer different levels of firmness, a mattress topper can be an inexpensive way to alter the feel of one side of your bed while maintaining the original firmness of the other, so both of you can be comfortable.
Pain & Pressure Point Relief
Mattress toppers made of memory foam or latex conform to the shape of your body to keep your spine aligned while relieving pain and pressure in your neck, shoulders, back, and hips.
Added Support
A memory foam or latex topper can provide you with the needed support that your current mattress may be lacking. It is extremely important that your neck and back are properly supported while you sleep.
More Comfortable Sleep Surface
The most obvious benefit of using a mattress topper is a much more comfortable bed. Adding a few inches of a plush layer of cushioning on top of your mattress can make all the difference in the world! If you’re sleeping on a lumpy old mattress or a new one that is either too soft or firm, the right topper can smooth it out.
Cons
Despite all the benefits that mattress toppers can provide, there are a few drawbacks. If you have a really old worn-out mattress, a topper may not do it much good. Furthermore, the wrong topper may not fit your bed properly or make it harder for you to move around freely at night. The most common problems people have with mattress toppers are as follows:
May Slip & Slide
Since a topper is not built into your mattress, but an add-on, there is a chance that it will slip and slide during the night. A little sliding is typical, especially if you toss and turn a lot.
Difficult to Keep Clean & Maintain
Very few mattress toppers are machine washable, which means you have to spot clean by hand or send them out for dry cleaning. Feather-filled toppers need to be constantly fluffed up to keep their shape and loft.
Difficult to Move
Certain types of mattress toppers make it more difficult to move around in bed. Some people may consider this an advantage, while others may find it annoying. Memory foam, which conforms to your body, may make it more difficult to move around in bed at night.
Sleeping Hot
Feather-filled or wool toppers remain fairly cool, but those made with memory foam, latex, or fiber tend to retain body heat, which isn’t comfortable for a lot of people. If you get hot and sweaty in bed at night, make sure the topper you buy regulates body temperature.
Unpleasant Odor
Some types of mattress toppers, especially memory foam and polyfoam, may emit an off-gassing odor that will dissipate in time if the room is well ventilated. However, sometimes, these unpleasant smells persist.
Not Always Effective
Most of the time, a good topper can improve an old mattress with some sags and lumps, but there are limits to how much it can improve the feel of an extensively damaged mattress.
No Support at the Edges
Because toppers are a bit smaller than the surface of the mattress, there may be no support around the edges where people often sit.
Fitting Issues
Mattress toppers are usually smaller than the mattress they’re supposed to fit, which allows sheets to fit snugly over them. However, they may slip and slide under the sheet, causing them to bunch up in spots, which is uncomfortable to sleep on.
Important Things to Consider When Shopping for a Mattress Topper
We’re now going to look at the most important things to keep in mind when shopping for a mattress topper that will best meet your needs:
Size
Clearly, you are going to want the correct size topper for your mattress, so you will be happy to know that they come in all mattress sizes: Twin, Full, Queen, King, and California King. Some also come in crib sizes for babies as well as Extra Long to fit Extra Long mattresses for tall people.
Material
The type of filling that goes into a mattress topper will determine the type of comfort it offers. Memory foam or latex will conform closely to your body to better align your spine and relieve pressure and pain. Feather- or wool-filled toppers do not mold as closely to your body, so there is less resistance for people moving on top of the bed, and they also offer a cooler sleep. When shopping, you need to examine the properties of each topper you’re considering, to ensure that the one you buy is the best mattress topper to meet your specific needs and preferences.
Comfort
With so many options to choose from in terms of brands, materials, thicknesses, and densities, you should have no trouble finding one that perfectly meets your comfort and support needs. No two people are alike, so what you find comfortable might be annoying to someone else. Would you like a topper that conforms to your body, such as with latex or memory foam? Or, are you looking for something softer such as cotton or down? Keep in mind that when it comes to mattress toppers, it’s a lot easier to soften the feel of your mattress than make it feel firmer.
Firmness
The firmness of a mattress is measured according to its Indentation. Load Deflection (ILD), which is determined by compressing a foam sample to 25 percent of its original height. The number of pounds required to indent it that far is its ILD measurement. The heavier the weight, the firmer the foam. A topper with an ILD of 10 would be extremely soft, whereas one with an ILD of 40 would be quite firm.
Firmness is the characteristic that supports your back, and softness determines how well it conforms to the shape of your body. Each of these is important for relieving back pain and addressing other conditions. So, when choosing how firm your mattress topper should be, you’ll need to consider other things as well:
Back sleepers get more benefit out of a firmer topper while side sleepers need a little more softness. But if you sleep on your stomach, you’ll probably be most comfortable with something in the middle. Therefore, you should analyze your sleep position(s) to determine the level of firmness that would most meet your needs.
Additionally, if you are concerned about keeping your spine properly aligned during the night, which might be the case if you suffer from certain medical conditions, you should consider a mattress topper with a higher density and more firmness. Babies are particularly in need of a firmer topper, so they don’t develop any spinal malformations early on. On the other hand, if you have a son or daughter in college, they can easily benefit from a medium firm topper.
Density
The density of a mattress topper is what will determine how comfortable and supportive it is. You need to get this right when selecting a topper. Generally, the higher the density, the more support it offers, and the lower the density, the plushier it feels. The bestselling toppers come in 3 levels of density:
- 3 lbs. or less per cubic foot: A mattress topper in the 1st category has the lowest density and therefore is quite soft. It is lightweight, melts down quickly with the body temperature, but can quickly resume its original shape.
- 4 or 5 lbs. per cubic foot: The 2nd category is considered to be the optimum density for a topper made of memory foam because it provides sufficient support while being soft enough to make you comfortable.
- 6 lbs. or more per cubic foot: The 3rd category is reserved for the highest quality gel-infused memory foam toppers. This level of density provides optimum support to keep the body perfectly aligned throughout the night because such toppers are heavier and firmer. But they do take a while to conform to the shape of the body and resume their original shape. They work well for therapeutic purposes.
Thickness
Toppers typically range between 1” to 5” in thickness. The condition of your existing mattress will determine how thick your mattress topper should be. If you want a softer bed, a thicker topper would be most appropriate. If you are seeking a firmer sleeping surface, a thin firm topper will work best. Studies show that a 2” thick mattress topper is best on a mattress in good condition.
Durability & Lifespan
The lifespan will vary depending on the filling. Most memory foam, latex and wool toppers are quite durable and should easily last several years before you notice any sagging or indenting. On the other hand, fiber- or feather-filled toppers are not very durable and really don’t last long.
Potential for an Allergic Reaction
Read the label to make sure you are not allergic or overly sensitive to any of materials used, such as down or latex. If you have general allergy issues, your best bet would be to get a hypoallergenic cover as well.
Temperature Regulation
Toppers made of memory foam or latex are known for retaining body heat. The denser and thicker they are, the more heat they retain, even when manufacturers add ventilation tubes or infuse cooling gel in an attempt to combat this. Down, feather and wool work well through all 4 seasons of the year. These materials keep you warm in winter and cool during the summer. You need to keep in mind that the fabric on the outside can also help regulate heat by wicking away moisture.
Sex and Intimacy
You may also want a topper that enhances your sex life rather than making it more difficult. To get a surface that you can move around on easily, look for a topper with some bounce and resilience.
Motion Isolation
For couples, latex and memory foam toppers have the ability to isolate and absorb motion, so if one partner moves, the other isn’t disturbed. On the other hand, feather-filled toppers do not offer this benefit.
Certifications
If you want to be sure that your mattress topper contains no toxic chemicals, look for ones that meet the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), which is the leading standard worldwide for organic fibers. Any GOTS-certified topper will meet these high standards. The Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS) is also very highly thought of in the bedding industry. To earn the GOLS Certification, a product must be made up of over 95% certified organic raw materials. You can also minimize your exposure to toxic chemicals if your mattress topper has the CertiPUR-US Certification. The foams in these toppers are independently tested and shown to contain no harmful chemicals.
Machine Washable
It’s very difficult to find toppers that you can throw in the washing machine and dryer, and spot cleaning may put unnecessary wear and tear on them. A removable, machine-washable cover would be your best bet for making your topper last longer.
Accessories
Most people prefer a mattress topper with elastic straps on all 4 corners to help keep it in place. Some of the best mattress toppers offer more security with a stretchy skirt that fits around the sides of the mattress and tucks snugly underneath. This keeps it from shifting around when you move around in bed.
Price
Mattress toppers come in all different prices, depending on the materials they’re made of and their quality. Polyester, egg crate foam, and certain cotton toppers seem to be the most affordable. Top-quality cotton, down- and feather-filled toppers tend to be moderately priced. Wool and memory foam toppers are expensive, with latex being even more pricey. In general, the most expensive would be the best, but that doesn’t guarantee it’s the best mattress topper for you. It’s important that you find one that meets your particular needs, and that may have little to do with price.
Warranty
Ideally, you want a product that’s going to be durable and lasting, without breaking the bank. If you’re comparing two that seem equal in all aspects, choose the one that offers a good warranty. A warranty gives you peace of mind when making your purchase. If offers some assurance that you can enjoy your investment for a decent amount of time. The best mattress toppers will come with a warranty of 4 to 5 years.
Selecting the Best Mattress Topper for You
When it comes right down to it, the right mattress topper for you will probably be determined by your body weight and sleep position.
Stomach Sleepers
Sleep experts do not recommend that you sleep on your stomach. Side-sleeping may cause the mattress to sink down in the area of the hips and pelvis, misaligning the spine. And, this can cause undue pressure and pain.
Nonetheless, there are people who prefer sleeping on their stomachs. For them, a slightly firmer topper would be best since it would not sink down in the middle and keep the spine better aligned. Thus, the best mattress topper for stomach sleepers would be lower-density and on the thin side.
Back Sleepers
If you sleep on your back, you’re naturally aligning your spine. This in itself relieves pressure, but you’ll need a higher-density topper to give you sufficient support. If your mattress topper is too soft, your back and hips will sink too deeply, but if it’s too firm, it can create a gap between the sleeper’s lower back and the bed.
The best mattress topper for a back sleeper weighing 130 to 230 lbs. would be a medium-firm one, while lighter sleepers would likely be more comfortable on something less firm. Heavier people typically prefer toppers that are slightly firmer.
Side Sleepers
When you sleep on your side, you’re creating an unnatural curve in your spine, which puts undue pressure on particularly sensitive areas like your neck, shoulders, upper back, and hips. If you are a side sleeper, your topper should cradle these areas to straighten and support the spine and relieve the pressure.
People weighing less than 130 lbs. tend to be more comfortable on low-density, soft toppers, whereas people weighing more than 130 lbs. seem to prefer a firmer topper that they won’t sink too far down into.
Taking Good Care of Your Mattress Topper
Wool mattress toppers can usually be machine washed. Also, certain fiber toppers are said to be machine washable as well, but be careful because wash cycles can cause these to deteriorate in time. That said, dry cleaning may be your best cleaning option. Feather filled, memory foam and latex toppers should never be thrown in the washing machine or dryer. They should only be dry cleaned or spot cleaned.
An off-gassing odor can emanate from some toppers, particularly those made of foam. The smell will be the strongest when you first open the package. To allow the odors to dissipate, remove all the packaging, and spread it out in a well-ventilated area. You may want to wait a couple of days before placing it on your bed, although the odor will never totally dissipate on some toppers.
Toppers are designed to be placed on top of the mattress, beneath the bottom sheet. To maximize your comfort, smooth your topper out before tucking the sheet in around it. This will keep it from bunching up so that you have a nice flat sleep surface.
FAQs
Is a mattress topper really necessary?
A mattress topper is not an absolute necessity, but many people sleep a lot better with one because it makes their bed so much more comfortable to sleep on. If you routinely wake up in the morning with aches and pains, it might be due to an uncomfortable or unsupportive mattress. The right topper could fix that. Even if your mattress is okay, it could perhaps be a lot more comfortable with a good topper.
Can a mattress topper fix a mattress that’s sunk in the middle?
Sadly, your mattress might be too far gone for a topper to provide any help. A topper would just conform to the depression in the middle. If this is your situation, you really need to get a new mattress. But if you can’t afford to do so at present, a mattress topper might make your bed more comfortable in the meantime.
Can mattress toppers be easily cleaned?
Most mattress toppers cannot be easily cleaned. This is why you need to put a sheet over them, which you can throw in the washer and dryer as needed. Having said that, some toppers come with a removable, washable cover that you can easily launder. If you want additional assurance that your topper will stay clean, you may want to buy a machine-washable mattress protector that would go under your bottom sheet, directly on top of the mattress topper.
Conclusion
We hope this article has helped you gain a good understanding of the topic at hand and that you now know your options when it comes to mattress toppers.
After doing all our research, we recommend that people with back problems choose a topper with a density rating of at least 4 and thick enough to support your back. You may find more affordable toppers, but our advice would be to choose one that comes with a warranty. The more expensive products should have a longer warranty.
Consider the overall quality of the topper, rather than just the price. Use common sense to figure out what you want and need, and you will make the right choice despite all of the information over load.
