How to Find the Mattress Topper Best For You

A mattress topper could be the most efficient and simple way to upgrade your mattress. The most popular materials are memory foam, polyfoam and latex.

A memory foam mattress is perfect for mattresses that are too sagging or beds with too high bounce. It conforms to the body and offers the support needed to ease back pain.

Comfort

A mattress topper can soften the mattress that is too firm. It also provides more support, which can help alleviate back pain by adjusting to the body's shape. A memory foam topper can relieve pressure points, while latex toppers offer more breathability and bounce than polyurethane alternatives.

The firmness of a topper is determined by the fabric, and also your weight, your sleeping position and personal preference. For those who sleep on their sides, they can choose the softest option, whereas stomach or back sleepers will prefer a medium firm option. The thickness of a topper can also impact the comfort. While heavier toppers can provide more cushioning, it's possible that they won't fit and cause an uncomfortable feeling.

The ideal mattress topper for the majority of people is made of soft, durable fabric and is backed by a solid warranty. It should also be breathable, hypoallergenic, and free of harmful chemicals such as flame retardants and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). To keep the topper fresh and clean, it can be machine washed.

Testers at GH rate toppers based on their ease of use, temperature regulation and how it alters the feel of their current mattresses. We also ask whether the topper stays in its place, if the topper makes any noise, and how much better their sleep is.

The Saatva topper is at the top of our list is rated by customers with a score of 4.4 (as of may 2023) and comes in queen size. It's designed with a two inch layer of open-cell, bouncy foam that conforms to your body. This gives you support and helps keep your body cool.

An alternative that is less expensive is the Turmerry organic topper, which is made of a three-inch layer of breathable natural materials. It comes in either the soft or firm option. It's an excellent option for those who have beds that are sagging or innerspring mattresses that have too many bounce or couples looking to lessen the impact of motion transfer.

Linenspa's GOTS-certified mattress topper is a different option. It has a four-inch layer of breathable, temperature-regulating wool with a cotton cover and comes in a medium or firm option. The GOTS certification indicates that the topper is organically produced according to standards and is free of chemical dyes and synthetic materials.

Support

A mattress topper is an extra thick mattress topper layer that sits on top of your existing bed. It can be attached to your mattress with elastic straps or a hem with a stretchy fit. Its thickness can range from 2 to 4 inches. Mattress toppers are different from mattress protectors, which are thin covers designed to protect your mattress from allergens, spills, and bed bugs.

The best mattress toppers will transform your sleep, and prevent aches and discomforts caused by an old or soft mattress. They can also help improve the comfort of a mattress that is uncomfortable or sagging, by providing the proper level of support, softness, and temperature control.

There are a variety of mattress topper materials, like memory foam, latex down and gel. Select a memory foam mattress if you're seeking cushioning and contouring for improved spinal alignment. A memory foam topper infused with gel can aid in reducing heat retention which makes it a great option for those who are prone to sweaty nights.

If you have back issues, a memory foam topper can help you keep your spine in a good alignment by reducing pressure on sensitive areas. A copper-infused topper can help reduce swelling and inflammation and can aid in preventing pain from pressure point.

A topper made with natural fibers like wool or cotton, will make you sleep more comfortably and cooler. Wool is breathable and wicks moisture It's also strong and easily moldable. It's often blended with down to provide extra comfort. This mattress topper from Parachute, for example, includes a mix of durable and resilient latex with temperature-regulating wool.

A mattress topper made of down is a great option for those who like a soft feel. Choose a mattress topper that is made of feathers and down. This will give you a luxurious texture. This Brooklyn Bedding topper is a good choice as it comes in a firm version for those who require more support and resilience and plush for those looking for cloud-like softness. It's backed by a five-year guarantee and includes an extensive trial period as well as free shipping.

Temperature Control

If you own an memory foam mattress, you can increase your comfort level with this topper, which is both cooling and cushioning. It features gel infused memory foam that is breathable through specially-designed holes, making it breathable and helping to disperse heat during your sleep. It also has bamboo covers that are soft, wicking, and moisture-resistant which keeps your body cool and comfortable as you relax.

This topper comes in a variety of thicknesses, based on your preference. It also comes with a 10-year guarantee. If you prefer a more firm feel the topper is available in a Luxury Firm option (similar to a medium or 7 out of 10). Both are made in the USA and backed by a 100-night trial.

Latex and foam are both breathable materials that make them an excellent choice for sleepers who are hot. Certain memory foam and latex mattress toppers trap heat, which is uncomfortable for some. Look for ones that have cooling components like this model from Nolah. It uses the company's signature foam as well as a quilted cover with cooling fibers to keep you cool while you sleep. It also offers a zoned support system for your head, shoulders, torso, hips and legs.

Another method to ensure an unbeatable night's sleep is to use a mattress protector. These protectors are able to be placed over the bed and shield it from spills, allergens and other things. It is machine washable and has the zipper, making it easy to clean as well as to put on and remove.

If you like to sleep on your stomach or back, you will want a mattress topper that offers lots of support. A mattress that's too firm can cause you to slump forward and cause back or neck pain. The extra comfort is provided by soft mattress topper foam and toppers made of down or alternative down. Strategist contributing writer Lauren Levy slept on this one from Parachute and says she woke up feeling "gently sandwiched between layers of marshmallow softness." It's also available in a natural cotton version, which is hypoallergenic and certified as OEKO-TEX Standard 100, Global Organic Textile Standards, Fair for Life and GreenGuard Gold.

Breathability

A mattress topper is a great way to upgrade an old mattress without breaking the budget. Finding the ideal mattress topper can be difficult when there are so many options available. If your mattress is beginning to lose its shape, you suffer from back pain or need to lessen the feeling of motion transfer from one person to the other, the right mattress can make all the difference.

The type of material used to create the topper is the primary factor in the feel of it, and it can affect not only the way you sleep but also your back health. For memory foam mattress topper instance, experts suggest that side sleepers should choose a soft topper while back or stomach sleepers need a more firm option.

Other factors, like breathability and thickness, could aid in narrowing down your options. Thicker toppers can be more expensive, but offer better support. They are also more breathable because they have a greater surface area. Find models with baffle box construction. This prevents the clumping of the filling evenly dispersed (a major plus for comfort).

Gel-infused memory foam was created to keep people cool as they sleep. It is also possible to think about a top made of latex, which is durable and springy. If you're looking to stay away from chemicals, organic wool or cotton are great options.

While a mattress topper isn't as likely to need washing as your sheets, it's important to find a model that is easy to clean and able to endure repeated washes. Many of the models we looked at have straps with elastic which bind them to your mattress making it easier to remove and wash them. Also, you'll need a topper that can be held securely in place on the mattress, particularly for those who are a combination sleeper who is prone to moving around a lot throughout the night.

The Brooklyn Bedding gel swirl memory foam mattress topper is a certified CertiPUR-US and GREENGUARD Gold-certified option that is both robust and comfortable. It's more expensive than other models on our list, but it has received excellent reviews from customers and comes with a 90-day money-back guarantee.