When it comes to mattresses, body pillows, and even mattress toppers, it’s fair to say that memory foam is a popular option. If you’ve ever slept on the material, you’ll know exactly why. If you haven’t, there are some key advantages it has over other materials. 

For example, it will adapt and adjust to our body as we lie down. As we get comfortable, support is offered in all the right areas. After a long day at work and as the body experiences aches and pains, memory foam will be there to help, and this is something we’re going to discover with memory foam mattress toppers today. 

Another reason why memory foam is so popular is because two partners can move as much as they want without disrupting the other. On a normal mattress, changes in weight distribution will move the mattress for the other party trying to sleep. With memory foam, no movement or noise transfers to the other side of the bed. 

Next, as we’ll discover with the best memory foam mattress topper today, it’s a durable material. Users will tell you that they can last for many years, and manufacturer’s clearly have confidence in their products otherwise they wouldn’t offer a warranty of three or even five years. 

Just in case you needed another reason, you’ll find different variations with thickness and density. Whether you need lower back support or general support, there’s a product to match. Even after this, toppers are lighter and therefore more convenient than a whole mattress; most people can install a topper with little trouble. 

Now you’re sold on memory foam, let’s explore some memory foam mattress topper reviews, buying considerations, benefits and drawbacks, and lots more! 


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The Best Memory Foam Mattress Toppers of 2020

Picture

Product

Key Features

Price

LUCID Ventilated Mattress Topper

LUCID Ventilated Mattress Topper

- CertiPUR-US certified
- The medium plush feel and great support
- Ventilation and breathability

Memory Foam Solutions Bed Topper

Memory Foam Solutions Bed Topper

- Surpasses PURGreen certification standards
- Five-pound density
- 3’’ of extra supportive memory foam

Cloud9 Visco Elastic Mattress Topper

Cloud9 Visco Elastic Mattress Topper

- 20-year limited warranty
- No toxic ingredients
- Very comfortable and super soft

SleepJoy ViscO2 Memory Foam Topper

SleepJoy ViscO2 Memory Foam Topper

- Breathable design and no odor
- Environmentally-friendly
- Safe (CertiPUR-US certified)

DreamFoam Bedding Gel Swirl Topper

DreamFoam Bedding Gel Swirl Topper

- Affordable price point
- Increased contouring and cooling features
- CertiPUR-US certified and safe

RECCI Memory Foam Mattress Topper

RECCI Memory Foam Mattress Topper

- OEKO-TEX and CertiPUR-US certified
- Keeps user cool with clever airflow
- Bamboo viscose cover (soft and hypoallergenic)

Best Price Mattress Memory Foam Topper

Best Price Mattress Memory Foam Topper

- Green tea extract infusion
- Polyester mesh cover
- Dual-sided four-inch memory foam

Sleep Innovations Mattress Topper

Sleep Innovations Mattress Topper

- Helps with tossing and turning
- Perfect for stomach, side, and back sleepers
- Provides breathability and encourages airflow

Advanced Sleep Solutions Gel Foam Topper

Advanced Sleep Solutions Gel Foam Topper

- CertiPUR-US certified
- Relieves pressure points
- Keeps the user cool


LUCID Ventilated Mattress Topper Review

LUCID Topper Review

- CertiPUR-US certified
- The medium plush feel and great support
- Ventilation and breathability

Price: 

With the LUCID Ventilated Mattress Topper, we come across a product with eight different sizes, and it’s fantastic as far as ventilation goes. Although only two inches, it has a medium plush feel and is known to relieve pressure on the shoulders, back, and neck. All through the night, the pad will also work on improving posture and aligning the spine.

One of the biggest concerns with memory foam is that it will eventually stay on one shape after being used for a while. Fortunately, this isn’t a concern with this topper because it will always spring back to normal. With open-cell technology, the foam is durable and resilient, and this means you can keep it for many years. Don’t worry about fitting sheets either because the LUCID has been made one inch shorter on every side. 

The ventilation holes, which are evenly-sized and -spaced on the surface, encourage airflow as you sleep. With certification from CertiPUR-US, you can also be confident in the performance, content, and environmental aspect of this product. In case you didn’t know, in order to award this certification, a product is tested by a third party with no affiliation to the company itself. 

When buying the LUCID Ventilated Mattress Topper, it comes from the manufacturer, so you aren’t paying a premium just to get your hands on a quality mattress pad.


Memory Foam Solutions Bed Topper Review

Memory Foam Solutions Topper Review

- Surpasses PURGreen certification standards
- Five-pound density 
- 3’’ of extra supportive memory foam

Price: 

If you’re looking for a supportive pad, you won’t find too many better than the Memory Foam Solutions Bed Topper. Made in the USA, it’s a great way to boost the comfortability of your mattress whether it’s made of memory foam, spring, or latex. Three-inch thick, it brings a mattress back to life and gives a boost to those sagging areas. In terms of conforming to the body, this is aided with the four-pound density. As pressure points relax, you shouldn’t toss and turn just to get comfortable.

For those with a concern about the environment, the manufacturer uses environmentally-friendly procedures, and the end product meets both CSPC and EPA standards. Not only this, it actually surpasses PURGreen certification standards which means that it is safe and free of harmful chemicals. While you might still pick up a chemical smell after unwrapping the product, you can sleep knowing that it isn’t toxic at all.

What’s more, there are six different sizes to the Memory Foam Solutions Bed Topper. It doesn’t matter whether you have a single, double, or queen-sized bed; you should find the right size to help. We’ve seen customers also enjoy the feel of this pad, and some have called it a ‘gel-like’ sensation. With a three-year warranty, you can be confident that you have the support and belief of the manufacturer themselves.


Cloud9 Visco Elastic Mattress Topper Review

Cloud9 Topper Review

- 20-year limited warranty
- No toxic ingredients 
- Very comfortable and super soft

Price: 

Is this topper named correctly? Absolutely. As soon as you lie down, you’ll realize why it’s called the Cloud9. Using a unique formula (one that you’ll only find with the Cloud9 Visco Elastic Mattress Topper), you’ll almost feel like you’re floating as you drift off to sleep. Made in the USA, the special formula has led to many positive reviews online. All in all, it offers 3.3 inches of visco-elastic foam which is less dense and super soft.

When you first lie down, the pad will feel a little firm. From here, it uses your body temperature to adjust and mold to your shape. To relieve pressure points, weight distributes evenly, and you should have the perfect environment to get quality sleep without tossing and turning. As it molds to your shape, this topper can relieve back pain and pressure. However, it’s also known to encourage blood circulation, which can also aid sleep.

If you’ve got a hard, old mattress without the budget for a new one, the Cloud9 Visco Elastic Mattress Topper will make the difference. Just as we saw before, there may be a smell when you first unpack the product, but this will disappear after a little while of airing out. Not only this, a 24-hour period will allow it to expand fully. 


SleepJoy ViscO2 Memory Foam Topper Review

SleepJoy Topper Review

- Breathable design and no odor
- Environmentally-friendly 
- Safe (CertiPUR-US certified)

Price: 

With every year that passes, we’re learning more and more about the importance of protecting our beautiful planet…and manufacturers are finally listening. If you want a ‘green’ product, we recommend the SleepJoy ViscO2 Memory Foam Topper. Rather than soy-based foams or traditional foam, this one uses the plant-based materials derived from castor beans, which have a lower carbon footprint.

In addition to this, the unique manufacturing process leads to an odor-neutral product; you don’t need to waste time airing this topper out before using it. Instead, remove it from the packaging, put it on the bed, and enjoy a good night’s sleep.

Following in the footsteps of many others, SleepJoy believes that breathability is important for comfortable sleep. Therefore, they have introduced an open-cell formula to allow air to pass through the entire sleep surface. Even if you use it every day for a number of years, the SleepJoy ViscO2 Memory Foam Topper should retain its shape and stay durable.

Compared to some, it’s perhaps a little lighter at two inches, and some won’t like the fact that it isn’t machine washable. However, the odd spot clean shouldn’t cause too many headaches. Made in the USA, offering CertiPUR-US certification, and ideal for side and back sleepers, the SleepJoy allows us all to help the environment a little. If you have any problems, you can fall back on the two-year warranty.


DreamFoam Bedding Gel Swirl Topper Review

DreamFoam Bedding Topper Review

- Affordable price point
- Increased contouring and cooling features 
- CertiPUR-US certified and safe

Price: 

Suitable for most sleepers, we now have an affordable option and another topper that measures two inches. With visco-elastic memory foam, there are nine sizes available, and it adjusts to the contours of the body for ultimate pressure relief. Despite the small price tag, the DreamFoam Bedding Gel Swirl Topper should improve sleep and the softness of even the most dated of mattresses.

As well as the main material, this pad has what’s known as a ‘gel swirl infusion’ which helps us to get comfortable at night. What’s more, we should also stay cool as a result of air circulation and open-cell technology. As with other products in this list, the two-inch thickness means that it’s the perfect middle ground between soft and firm. This product also meets the highest standards for quality required for CertiPUR-US certification.

Like most toppers in this niche, the DreamFoam Bedding Gel Swirl Topper will arrive in a box. After unwrapping and releasing it from the box, it will expand. Unlike most products, there’s not much of smell upon release. All in all, this is a great topper, and it’s possible to find it for as little as $50. Whether you’re a side, stomach, or back sleeper, the DreamFoam Bedding is a fantastic option, it’s made in the USA, and it even comes with a three-year warranty.


RECCI Memory Foam Mattress Topper Review

RECCI Topper Review

- OEKO-TEX and CertiPUR-US certified
- Keeps user cool with clever airflow 
- Bamboo viscose cover (soft and hypoallergenic)

Price: 

When we talk about mattress toppers, it doesn’t always come down to comfort and support. If you suffer from allergies, we’ve chosen the next product based on its hypoallergenic properties. It uses a removable and washable cover made of bamboo viscose material to reduce allergens, and it is even dust mite resistant.

If you get hot in bed, this is also a fine choice because the RECCI Memory Foam Mattress Topper utilizes heat insulation technology. With a different weaving method to most, airflow is encouraged, and you stay cool while you sleep. In especially hot weather, it’s possible to regulate body temperature (no more sweating!). Don’t worry, this feature doesn’t take away from the comfort of the topper at all.

With three inches of foam, it suits most sleepers without being too firm or soft. As we would expect, it molds to the body, helps those pressure points, and even offers a non-skid material which prevents the pad from moving once on the mattress. Ultimately, the RECCI assures you the most relaxing night, making sure you are fully recharged every morning!

Within the industry, the RECCI Memory Foam Mattress Topper has a positive reputation, and this product has been certified by OEKO-TEX and CertiPUR-US not only for performance but content and durability too. Finally, it is affordable, reasonably priced, and has a 10-year warranty; this applies to all quality-related issues.


Best Price Mattress Memory Foam Topper Review

Best Price Mattress Topper Review

- Green tea extract infusion
- Polyester mesh cover 
- Dual-sided four-inch memory foam

Price: 

What if you’re a side sleeper and you find it difficult to get a good mattress or pad? Well, we want to point you towards the Best Price Mattress Memory Foam Topper because it has great support and it’s very comfortable. According to some users, it feels a little firm when in regular conditions. However, this changes as you lie down because it reacts to body temperature and molds itself to your shape. As weight distributes and the topper provides support, you’ll feel a release in the joints, and you can sleep well all night long without tossing and turning.

In fact, the Best Price Mattress has a little secret - it's infused green tea extract in the top layer. Since this is known to encourage restful sleep while reducing stress, you’re in great hands. Also, all motion is isolated to one spot, which means we aren’t waking partners with our tossing and turning.

Last but certainly not least in our list, this is actually the thickest topper at four inches, and it has two amazing sides. While the first is 1.5 inches of memory foam, the other is 2.5 inches of high-density foam. While the regular foam will suit those suffering from lower back pain and side sleepers, the denser side is perfect for back sleepers. If you don’t have a preference nor any ailments, you’re in dreamland (literally!) because you can play with both sides to see which is better for your sleep.

To finish, we want to talk about the extras; they won’t make or break the experience, but they’re amazing to have, nonetheless. This includes;

Vinyl packaging
Polyester mesh cover (with zipper)
Five-year warranty


Sadly, most buyers have noted a strong smell after unpacking. Though a little frustrating at first, it should disappear within a couple of days. As it vents and airs, the Best Price Mattress Memory Foam Topper will soon be ready to transform your sleep.


Sleep Innovations Mattress Topper Review

Sleep Innovations Topper Review

- Helps with tossing and turning
- Perfect for stomach, side, and back sleepers
- Provides breathability and encourages airflow

Price: 

As we near the end of our list, we want to focus on the foam itself. The Sleep Innovations Mattress Topper is for mattresses that are nearing the end of their life and no longer offering a comfortable sleep. At two inches, weight is distributed evenly, pressure points are relieved, and you should be able to get comfortable without tossing and turning throughout the night.

With three-pound density, the material is actually 100% polyurethane memory foam. What does this mean? Well, it does all the usual things of boosting circulation, providing pressure point relief, and conforming to the body. Yet, it’s ideal for all sleepers, it’s naturally hypoallergenic, and it even has an antimicrobial finish. Just to top it off, temperature regulation and airflow are allowed thanks to the open-cell design.

We often think of memory foam as making a mattress more comfortable, but the Sleep Innovations Mattress Topper also extends the life of your mattress underneath. Made in the USA, the manufacturer has decided on a ten-year limited warranty, and the vacuum-packed nature makes it easy to ship and handle upon arrival.


Advanced Sleep Solutions Gel Foam Topper Review

Advanced Sleep Solutions Topper Review

- CertiPUR-US certified
- Relieves pressure points
- Keeps the user cool

Price: 

There are a number of benefits to choosing a mattress topper infused with gel; this includes pressure points relief, very little motion transfer (you won’t wake partners when moving), relaxed muscles, and even spinal alignment. To any existing mattress, the Advanced Sleep Solutions Gel Foam Topper will add medium range softness and plush support while also distributing weight as we sleep. Especially for those who have mattresses getting a little hard and uncomfortable, it’s designed to soften the surface and built to last.

Again, there’s an open cell structure. Once you add the gel mixture, it shouldn’t trap all the heat, and this means we can sleep while remaining cool (something that not all traditional memory foam toppers can offer). With two inches of foam, it’s a little shorter on all sides to accommodate snug placement of your fitted sheet. You also don’t need to worry about mattress size since they offer six different sizes going from twin to California King.

This product is produced at home in the USA. Additionally, it’s not toxic, CertiPUR-US certified, environmentally-friendly, and completely safe. As we’ve noted before with other products, it’s important to let the topper expand, so it reaches the right size and wears off any smells. If you’re unhappy with the Advanced Sleep Solutions Gel Foam Topper within the first couple of months, the 60-day money-back guarantee is a huge advantage. Meanwhile, you also have the manufacturer’s warranty which is three years in length.


Mattress Toppers - The Basics

Now we have an insight into the best memory foam mattress toppers, let’s learn more about the product itself. In case you haven’t seen them previously, mattress toppers sit between the mattress and the sheet for extra cushioning and support. For most people, they find a use in toppers when the mattress itself feels too firm or if it’s worn and has indentations.

In other cases, it’s possible the mattress isn’t thick enough and this leads to aches and pains. Elsewhere, we’ve seen people resort to toppers when a brand-new mattress is breaking in. As you look around the internet, you’ll find all sorts of different sizes and designs. These days, it’s easy to find one that fits your bed size; while some use elastic loops over the corners, others sit on top of the mattress and a few will tuck into a top sheet. 

As you’ve seen in this guide, memory foam is by far the most popular material and this is probably because we enjoy it adjusting to our bodies as we sleep. When it conforms, there’s a relief for pressure points in the lower back, neck, and shoulders. Also, it can help to align the spine and we wake up feeling refreshed. 

For those who sleep next to a partner, the isolated motion transfer means no noise or movement while one partner continually tosses and turns. If you’ve tried memory foam previously and found that it retained too much heat, try a gel-infused product. 


Why a Mattress Topper?

With so many different products on the market, it’s important to highlight some differences. We’ve seen the terms ‘topper’, ‘protector’, and ‘pad’ used interchangeably. In reality, they actually have different functions. 

Pad - Ultimately, manufacturers of pads want to do one thing; keep allergens, bacteria, dust mites, and other contaminants away from the mattress. Although sometimes quilted, comfort isn’t a priority. 

Protector - As the name suggests, protectors have a similar goal to pads…but they go one step further. As well as everything we mentioned with a pad, a protector will also have waterproof qualities to prevent staining and damaging due to sweat, urine, and other liquids. 

Topper - Finally, we come to toppers which have a primary function of comfort, support, and softness. While the first two are more about the mattress, toppers focus on the sleeper. With this in mind, they’re the thickest and most expensive of the three. 

In summary, mattress toppers and pads are ideal for protecting the mattress from general use while adding comfort and support (more so with toppers). On the other hand, mattress protectors will sacrifice the added comfort to keep the mattress in peak condition by preventing allergens, perspiration, and other potential issues away from the mattress itself. 


Will a Memory Foam Topper Help Me?

If we’ve learned anything over the years, it’s that not every product is useful for every individual on the planet. Therefore, we want to break down the factors that determine the effectiveness of a topper. 

Weight - The heavier we are, the thicker we tend to need our mattresses for support and comfort. With two or three inches in a mattress, those between 130 and 230 pounds are likely to need a 3-4 PCF memory foam density. When we move past 230 pounds, this goes to 4 PCF and even higher. 

Sleep Depth - If you wake up every time your partner adjusts their position, memory foam will have amazing value. Suddenly, their movements are almost muted both audibly and physically. 

Side and Back Sleepers - According to experts, anybody who sleeps on their back or side will benefit from toppers that have between 3.5 and 5 PCF and a thickness of two or three inches.

Stomach Sleepers - That’s right, stomach sleepers benefit too because they can get support so long as the density is lower than 3 PCF and the thickness is below two inches. 

Neck, Back, or Shoulder Issues - We’ve seen throughout that the best memory foam topper will relieve some pressure in these areas while also promoting spinal alignment, so this group is next. 

We’ve listed five groups that will benefit from a memory foam mattress topper, but there are three factors that might suggest against using a topper; 

Stomach Sleepers - We know, you were included in the previous list. However, any topper above 3 PCF or two inches will cause issues for stomach sleepers. 

Strong Sense of Smell - Unfortunately, the unpleasant aromas that can come from extended use of memory foam is a problem that still doesn’t have a lasting resolution. 

Weight - We mentioned 130 pounds earlier as a lower limit for comfort, so those underneath this weight won’t benefit from the memory foam conformity. If your mattress is in a poor way or you want to try toppers, we recommend sticking to below 3 PCF and two inches in thickness. 


Benefits and Drawbacks of Using a Memory Foam Mattress Topper 

Benefits 

  • Firstly, memory foam molds to the body and therefore provides support and encourages correct spinal alignment. This will alleviate pressure, relieve pain, and help the shoulders, lower back, neck, and even hips. 
  • Since motion is absorbed, only specific sections of the mattress will react to movement rather than the whole bed swaying or moving; there’s also very little noise. 
  • The thicker and denser the topper, the longer it will last. Generally speaking, toppers can last for three or even four years before needing a replacement. 
  • With newer products, we have the option of dual firmness. If one partner likes the mattress and the other needs more support, the market now caters to this audience. 
  • Now you’re not directly on the mattress, there’s an element of protection. With small spillages, only the topper is affected. Over time, wear and tear will affect the topper before the actual mattress so you protect what works out as a significant investment. 
  • As a result of the previous benefit, you don’t need to spend out on a new mattress quite so early. Therefore, the topper is a brilliant investment and the most affordable way to extend the life of a mattress (while also aiding sleep!). 

Drawbacks 

  • Whether you’ve used memory foam before or not, you’ve probably heard the related odor issue. There’s a potential of off-gassing and other smells when freed from the packaging. While the chemical-like smells should eventually disappear, others will remain or grow, and this is a problem. 
  • Next, another known problem with memory foam is its ability to hold heat. If you already get hot while sleeping, adding memory foam to the mix is only going to exacerbate the problem. Fortunately, this is something we can avoid more and more as manufacturers utilize gel and open cell technology for a cooler night. 
  • For couples, they find that sex is a problem with high density and thick toppers. Since the response time is slow, there can be dents in all the wrong places. If this is a concern, you can try less dense and thinner memory foam toppers. 
  • In a similar vein, only lower density and thin toppers allow for ease of movement. As the foam moves and conforms to the body shape, it becomes difficult to move. 
  • Did you know that memory foam is not recommended for children and infant cribs? Even if you co-sleep with your child, memory foam is dangerous because of its ability to trap carbon dioxide; in turn, this dramatically increases the danger of SIDS. 

Other Materials for Toppers

We’re certainly focusing on memory foam here, but will you find other materials in the market? Absolutely. In fact, you will find customers who swear by these other materials. For example, perhaps the most common is latex foam. In recent years, it has gained popularity because it’s actually being used alongside memory foam. Rather than a direct competitor, some manufacturers are infusing their memory foam mattresses with latex foam as an added layer. 

Between the two, there are similarities. This being said, latex foam doesn’t have all the same components so there aren’t too many toppers made of latex foam alone. 

Two more examples of materials for toppers include feather/down and wool. Unfortunately, wool isn’t as supportive as memory foam and it doesn’t mold to the body quite so well. With feather and down, this is normally targeted towards the luxury end of the market, but it’s not problem-free. Despite the increased comfort, there’s no firmness which leads to a lack of support. Over an extended period of time, the lower back is placed under stress and our bodies can suffer even more. 


Buying Considerations for a Mattress Topper

Support 

If you want support from your mattress topper, you should be looking for a thicker and firmer product. With thickness and a high density, you can enjoy pressure relief and an end to aching in the back, joints, and neck. If this isn’t an issue, you don’t need to worry about pressure relief as much. 

Sleeping Position 

How do you sleep? For side sleepers, spinal alignment is allowed when the shoulders sink into the mattress. When a topper and mattress are too thin, the shoulder doesn’t sink, and this means it’s somewhat squashed into the upper back and neck. With this in mind, we highly recommend choosing a mattress topper with at least three inches (soft to firm). 

If you’re a stomach sleeper, we don’t want to encourage too much sinking because this will curve the spinal cord inwards and potentially cause damage. Therefore, you need a firmer topper with a lower thickness.

Finally, the back sleepers among us rely on the buttocks for comfort. Since this doesn’t extrude quite so much as shoulders, we don’t need it to sink quite so far. When looking for products, anything between two and three inches should work perfectly. 

Weight 

Next up, and something we’ve mentioned before, thicker mattresses will suit those carrying a little extra weight (above 230 pounds). If you were to use a thin topper, you will only really feel the mattress and the topper will add little to your sleeping experience. 

Mattress 

Before buying a product, we also need to consider the mattress. If it’s getting firm in its old age, we need a thick topper to bring back the softness. Alternatively, you might find that the mattress is too soft, and this requires a firm topper; in fact, severe cases may call for latex as opposed to memory foam. Why? Because the former is firmer and will complement the soft mattress well. 

Bed Size 

Of course, we also can’t forget the size of the bed itself. While some products will have a couple of sizes, others will have up to ten. Generally speaking, most manufacturers will provide at least twin, full, king, and queen sizes. If the topper is too small or large, it can lead to an uneven bed and not the results you originally hoped. 

Warranty 

Although not essential to your comfort or support, a good warranty may save you money and hassle later down the line. These days, the average is around two years; this being said, you’ll find anything from one year to ten years. Remember, warranties cover many things but not compression over time.


Characteristics of Memory Foam Toppers

How do you know which is the best memory foam mattress topper? Well, there are some characteristics that are important. 

Shape 

After buying a topper, the last thing you want is for it to continually move around; not only is this uncomfortable, we have the hassle of putting it back into place each morning. For this reason, the shape of a topper is essential. While some are shaped like egg-crate polyfoam toppers, others will be square and flat. Shape also affects how a topper adjusts to the body and absorbs heat. 

Material 

Memory foam is the main material, but there are some others you should look out for if you find memory foam to retain too much heat. For example, this includes; 

  • Bamboo - The first substance is bamboo, and this is because researchers have found it to be more effective than cotton at cooling.
  • Gel - Although it sounds like a strange material to have in a mattress topper, gel does the opposite to memory foam in that it distributes heat rather than retaining it. Over time, you should notice a difference compared to a topper without gel.
  • Copper - As you may know, copper is a brilliant conductor of heat. When used in a mattress topper, it will attract the heat and keep it away from the body. In addition to this, copper will provide support while also killing bacteria (it does more than most cooling substances!). 
  • Graphite - Did you know that graphite is used in PCs and laptops to prevent overheating? Well, the same principles apply to memory foam. As the two materials combine, the memory foam shouldn’t ever get too hot and you can sleep without sweating and feeling uncomfortable. 

Firmness 

When it comes to mattress toppers, there’s an interesting relationship between thickness and firmness. When a topper is thin, the firmness will be at a medium level and they suit those with more weight, stomach sleepers, and side sleepers. When a topper is thicker and softer, this is ideal for a back sleeper. 

Foam Density 

When talking about foam density earlier, you might have seen us use ‘PCF’ and this is short for ‘pounds per cubic foot’. When under 3 PCF, this will be a soft foam which allows the body to sink without too much support. On the other hand, it’s a light product and is transported with ease. Up to 5 PCF, this is a balanced product with more support. Compared to lower densities, it takes longer for the topper to mold to the body. 

Whenever we move past 6 PCF, there are huge amounts of support; it’s normally reserved for those with serious aches/pains or even medical conditions. It will offer lots of support, but it will take some time to conform to our weight and shape. For those who are heavier than the average, they tend to choose a higher density because of the added support. 

Thickness 

As we saw in our memory foam mattress topper reviews, thickness varies from one to four inches. At one or two inches, it adds comfort, but some find it too firm when used with a high density; the added support and comfort may suit some sleepers. At three inches, we have a balanced option between support and softness. Then, at the top end of the scale, we have four inches, and this is for the highest level of support in key areas of the body. 


Frequently Asked Questions

We’ve seen the best memory foam topper products, we’ve seen some buying considerations, it’s time to bring this guide to a close with some FAQs. 

How can I care for my mattress topper?

Without taking care of your topper, there’s a risk of shortening its life so we highly recommend taking some simple steps. Firstly, prevention is always better than the cure, so start by avoiding excessive pressure and using a cover. Fortunately, most products these days come with a cover, so this isn’t something you need to worry about too much. With a cover installed, wear and tear are limited, and you keep the topper in good condition for the months ahead. 

If you’ve bought a mattress topper, or you’ve got your eye on a product that doesn’t have one, try a vacuum. With the topper on a flat surface, use a vacuum to remove dust and other debris. If there are any stains, combine water with a small amount of vinegar. From here, clean the whole thing with washing detergent. For stubborn stains, combine water (or an enzyme-based solution) with baking soda. 

What’s the perfect thickness?

Over the years, we’ve tested mattress toppers extensively while also listening to the thoughts of customers who have tested different thicknesses. In our experience, two inches is the ideal thickness for the majority of people. You get the relief from aches and pain, quality sleep is encouraged, and it all comes in at an affordable price. 

What about three inches? Well, people will tell you that this is a luxurious option, and it’s true. Yet, the problem comes with the lower support and the fact that we sink deeper. Although three-inch mattress toppers are certainly more affordable than they once were, they’re still more expensive than two-inch toppers. We only really suggest three inches for people who need a soft, luxurious surface to sleep and those who are a little heavier. 

Is four inches ever really necessary? We don’t think so. If it gets to the point where you’re using a four-inch mattress topper, it might be better just to invest in a new bed. 

Will a mattress topper work with my mattress?

We’ve seen how effective a mattress topper can be, but we should remember that they can’t perform miracles. If your mattress has dips or is incredibly soft, a mattress topper might not help. Instead, it’s best to buy a new mattress. 

On the other hand, you will get tremendous value from a topper if you want to make a firm mattress a little more comfortable. It will relieve pressure points, and you should notice a difference from the very first night. 

Will I need a cover for the mattress topper?

As explained in the first question, some products will come with a cover while others won’t. Mattress toppers work perfectly well without a cover, but we advise using one to keep the product in good condition. A cover will protect from wear and tear, stains, water, and more. Unfortunately, the only option with memory foam is spot cleaning so it makes sense to protect your investment. 

We know what you’re thinking, ‘well, this opens up a new debate of which cover to choose’. Ultimately, you need a solid waterproof cover. As long as you have this, you’re in good hands. For even better results, you can consider your topper and choose a cover designed to aid this topper. For example, some covers regulate body temperature which makes them perfect for gel-infused toppers. 

Even if your topper is made of memory foam alone, you may still benefit from the temperature regulation. We know that heat is retained in memory foam, so anything that helps negate this problem is useful. 

Is memory foam really as comfortable as everybody says?

Yes, just read some reviews online and you’ll get an idea of the support memory foam has gained in recent years. Whether in a mattress or just a topper, it offers a luxurious experience rather than having to sleep on a stiff and unforgiving surface. In fact, memory foam is also now available with mattress pads, pillows, and even in shoe soles (unbelievable, right!). 

As time goes on, demand continues to rise, and we don’t expect any change in this any time soon. 


Conclusion 

If you had any questions about mattress toppers before, we’ve hopefully answered them all today. We’ve looked at some of the best memory foam mattress toppers, buying considerations, benefits and drawbacks, FAQs, and so much more. 

In recent years, millions of people around the world have ended their sleeping woes with memory foam and you could be next. Without spending lots of money on a whole new mattress, you can test the material with a great mattress topper. 

Remember, there are lots of different products on the market so consider your bed, sleeping position, weight, mattress, and other factors before spending money. Of course, it’s also important to think about thickness, firmness, density, materials, and other factors. If it’s easy to clean (due to the off-gassing), this is another advantage. 

You could also consider a product made in the USA, one with CertiPUR-US certification, and more. Good luck, and here’s to more comfortable sleep! 


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