How to Find the Mattress Topper Best For You

A mattress topper is the fastest and easiest method to improve your sleeping surface. Memory foam, polyfoam, and latex are among the most popular materials.

A memory foam mattress is ideal for sagging mattresses or beds with too high bounce. It molds to your body, offering support for back pain as well as pressure relief.

Comfort

If your mattress is too firm, a mattress topper can make it feel plush. It also provides additional support, which can help reduce back pain. A memory foam topper can ease pressure points, while latex toppers offer more breathability and bounce than polyurethane options.

The firmness of a topper will be determined by its material, your weight, your sleeping position, and personal preferences. Side sleepers may prefer the softest option, whereas stomach or back sleepers would prefer a medium-firm choice. The thickness of a topper can affect its comfort. While the thicker ones provide more cushioning, they may not be as pliable to your bed and can create an awkward feeling.

The best mattress topper for most people will be made from a durable, soft material and backed by a good warranty. It should be hypoallergenic and air-tight, and free of harmful chemicals like 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 ease of use, temperature control and how it affects the feel of their existing mattresses. We also inquire about whether the topper stays in place, if it creates noise and how much improves their sleep quality.

The Saatva topper at the top of our list has a very high customer rating of 4.4 out of 5 (as as of May 2023) and is available in a queen size. It's designed with a two-inch layer of open-cell foam that bounces that conforms to your body and adjust to movement, providing support while keeping cool.

An option that is more affordable is the Turmerry organic topper, which has three inches of breathable natural materials and can be purchased in a firm or soft option. It's a great option for those who have a sagging bed or innerspring mattresses that have too much bounce, or couples who wish to reduce the feeling of motion transfer.

Linenspa's mattress topper that is GOTS certified is a popular choice. 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 label indicates that the topper meets organic farming standards and is free of chemical dyes and synthetic materials.

Support

A 4ft mattress topper topper is an extra thick layer that sits on top of your current mattress. It secures to your mattress using elastic straps or a skirt that is stretchy, and it can range in thickness from two to four inches. Mattress protectors are thin covers that protect your mattress from spills, allergens and double bed mattress topper bugs.

The best mattress toppers will improve your sleep and will help you avoid aches and discomforts caused by a worn-out or soft mattress topper mattress. They can also improve an uncomfortable mattress or sagging by providing the right amount of support, softness and temperature control.

There are a variety of mattress toppers, such as memory foam gel, latex, gel and down. If you want to improve your spine alignment pick a memory foam mattress. It will cushion and contour. A memory foam topper that is packed with gel may help to reduce heat retention which makes it a great choice for hot sleepers who struggle with night sweats.

A memory foam topper will aid in maintaining your spine's alignment by reducing the pressure on sensitive areas. If you are struggling with a sore back, a cushion infused with copper can reduce swelling and inflammation and may even help to prevent pain from pressure points.

A mattress cover made of natural fibers, such as wool or 4Ft Mattress Topper cotton, can help you sleep cooler and more comfortably. Wool is breathable and moisture-wicking, and it's also durable and pliable. It is often mixed with down for extra comfort. This mattress topper from Parachute, for example, includes a mix of durable and resilient latex with temperature-regulating wool.

A down mattress is a great option for those who want a plush feeling. Choose a mattress with feathers and down. This will give you a luxurious texture. This Brooklyn Bedding topper is a great option, as it's available in firm for those who need extra support and resilience and plush for those looking for cloud-like softness. It's backed by five years of warranty and comes with an extensive trial period as well as free shipping.

Temperature Control

This topper is cooling and cushioning. It can be placed on a memory-foam mattress. It's filled with gel that's ventilated by holes. This makes it more breathable, and helps to disperse the heat as you rest. It also has bamboo covers that are soft, wicking, and moisture-resistant, keeping you cool and comfortable as you relax.

This topper comes in different thicknesses based on what you prefer. It also comes with a 10-year warranty. If you prefer a firmer feel the topper is available in a Luxury Firm version (similar to a medium or 7 out of 10). Both are made in the USA and are backed by a 100-night trial.

Latex and foam are both breathable materials, making them a good choice for hot sleepers. Certain memory foam and latex mattress toppers can hold heat, which can be uncomfortable for certain people. Look for cooling components, like this Nolah model. It uses the company's signature foam and quilted cover that has cooling fibers to keep you cool while you sleep, plus it provides zoned support for your shoulders, head, torso, hips and legs.

Another method to ensure you get a good night's rest is to use a mattress protector. These protectors slip over the mattress and protect it against spills, allergens and other things. This one is machine-washable and comes with an opening for a zipper, making it simple to clean and to put on and remove.

If you prefer to sleep on your back or stomach then you'll need a mattress that has a lot of support. A mattress that's too firm can cause you to hunch forward and aggravate back or neck pain. Softer foams and down or down-alternative toppers provide extra comfort. The Parachute pillow, which was reviewed by Strategist contributor Lauren Levy, is made of soft foam and down-alternative toppers.

Breathability

A mattress topper is a fantastic way to improve the look of a worn out mattress without spending a fortune. However, with so many options available, choosing the ideal one for you can be difficult. Whether your mattress is starting to get sagging, you're suffering from back pain or want to decrease the sensation of motion transfer from one person to the next, the correct mattress can make all the difference.

The type of material used in the making of a topper is the most important factor in the feel of it and can impact not only the way you sleep but also your back health. Experts suggest that side sleepers should choose an easier topper, while stomach and back sleepers require a more firm one.

Other factors, such as breathability and thickness, could aid in narrowing your options. Thicker toppers can be more expensive but provide better support. They are also typically more breathable since they have a larger surface area that allows air to circulate. Find models with baffle box construction. This helps to prevent clumping and ensures that the filling is evenly spaced (a huge benefit for comfort).

Gel-infused memory foam was created to keep people cool when they sleep. You might also want to think about a top made of latex that is tough and springy. If you're looking to stay away from chemicals organic wool or cotton are great alternatives.

Although a mattress topper won't need to be cleaned as often as sheets, you should still consider a mattress that is easy to clean and will stand up to repeated washings. The majority of the models we tested have wide elastic straps to bind them to your bed, making it easier to remove them and wash them. You'll also need a mattress topper that is secure in place on the bed especially for those who are a combination sleeper who moves frequently during the night.

Brooklyn Bedding's gel swirl foam topper is a CertiPUR US and greenguard gold-certified option. It's sturdy and comfortable. It is a little more expensive than other models, however it has a great customer review and a 90-day money-back guarantee.