Which Mattress Toppers Are Best?

A layer of extra cushioning can make your bed more comfortable and also relieve tension on joints. Which mattress covers work best?

Dr. Holliday-Bell suggests this organic alternative for those who require the conforming support of memory foam but want to avoid chemicals. It has an easily removable cover and provides a range of firmness levels that will suit the majority of sleepers.

1. Sleep Innovations Gel Memory Topper

The topper is soft and comfortable for most people, yet still provides support. Our testers were impressed with how it molded to their bodies, providing support in all the right places. It works with the majority of mattresses, however it can be difficult to put the sheets on. (Read more about how to put in mattress toppers here). Its thick memory foam layer is machine-washable and naturally anti-bacterial. It has an organic bamboo cover that is non-toxic and sustainably harvested. Our panelists loved it, however, it is important to know that there are no straps to fix it to your Super king mattress topper. It could move as you rest.

The panelists who adored this topper also praised how it helped ease back pain. It's an excellent choice for those who sleep heavier and discover that a topper with three to four inches will ease pressure on a sensitive area like shoulders and hips.

A two-inch layer of memory foam infused with copper helps to wick heat and improves airflow for a cool night's sleep. The top layer was firm enough to relieve her back pain as well as the front and side sleeping positions, but not so firm that it made her feel uncomfortable. She also noticed a significant difference in her back pain she said it "pretty much disappeared over night." She was also amazed by the topper's quietness, even when it is paired with a spring mattress. The topper is also good for couples who share beds because it prevents motion transfer.

2. Coop Home Goods Retreat

We adore the soft and luxurious feel of Coop Home Goods' mattress toppers and this spot-cleaning-only version came up in our research, we knew it was a must to be included. It's made from a crosscut memory-foam and microfiber blend from the company, making it hypoallergenic. This is perfect for anyone who wants to upgrade an existing mattress or even re-decorate a bed in the guest room, dorm or rented. This topper is unique because it has five zones of different densities. It conforms to your body shape and provides adequate support.

The cover of this topper is made from 100 percent brushed microfiber polyester, and it has an asymmetrical baffle box design that creates pockets of fill to keep it evenly dispersed. The topper is also equipped with four elastic straps on each corner to help it stay firmly in the mattress. The copper-infused memory absorbs heat from your body, keeping you cool during the night. It's topped off with two" layer ventilated memory for more airflow.

The Retreat is the most suitable mattress topper for people who prefer a soft feel. When Strategist writer Louise tried it, she noted that the topper quickly adjusted to her frame and cradled her so she felt well-supported and comfortable. She tends to get hot in bed but the Retreat managed to keep her cool and didn't move significantly throughout the night. It is available in two firmness levels and is suitable for stomach, back and side sleepers.

3. Nolah Beds Luxury Firm Memory Foam Topper

There are a variety of options if you're looking for a mattress topper. Some are designed to keep you cool or regulate your body temperature, while others provide some additional support or comfort. A mattress topper is a great way to upgrade your current bed without spending much money. A memory foam mattress topper is a great choice for the majority of people. If, however, you prefer a more springy innerspring mattress then a hybrid topper that blends nano-springs and latex may be a better choice.

For side and back sleepers, a more firm topper can better align your spine and reduce pressure on areas that are sensitive. Our test subject Julia was impressed by this four-inch mattress by Tempur It is manufactured in the US and has an impressive 120-night trial. She was able to sleep better and was happy with the additional comfort it offered her previous mattress. She did notice an off-gassing scent when she first opened it up, but this went away after one day.

Another firm option is this one from Parachute that offers shredded foam that's not as dense as traditional memory foam but still feels extremely comfortable. Lauren Levy, a Strategist contributor says it's "much cheaper than a down topper" and has the same marshmallow softness. She enjoyed sleeping on it, but wouldn't recommend it to front sleepers because her torso was smashed into the topper.

A topper made from natural wool fleece is soft and hypoallergenic. It is not as breathable, and can make you feel hot at night. A cotton topper is also a good option, as it's breathable and keeps you cool. Some topper fabrics are even made with graphite, copper, and gel infusions to help keep you cool.

4. Sleep Innovations Gel Cooling Memory Foam Topper

This Puffy topper is a great budget option, providing soft, comfortable support that eases pressure at a low price. It is available in a variety of thickness and density options to assist you in finding the ideal fit for your bed.

Lauren Levy, a Strategist contributor, was thrilled that this topper is "marshmallow-soft" and features a baffle box construction with the appearance of a pillow with a fiber-fill. It's hypoallergenic and comes with a machine washable cover that helps maintain the cleanliness in your mattress.

The 2" layer of copper-infused memory is designed to help promote airflow and super king mattress topper draw moisture away from your body during sleep. This lets you remain cool. Although it doesn't have the same bounce as latex toppers, Levy found it to be extremely comfortable. It's ideal for people who sleep on their sides, backs or stomachs, and also for those suffering from chronic pain.

A 10-year warranty and free shipping come standard. This topper is also easy to clean. Simply wipe it down and allow it to dry in the sun. Be careful not to put it in the dryer or washer in order to void the warranty.

The Sleep Innovations Gel Cooling Memory Foam Topper offers a great budget option for a supportive and soft mattress. It's medium (5) firm and is suitable for all sleepers. However those who feel their mattress is too firm will benefit from this product. It also prevents motion transfer, Super King Mattress Topper which is a must for sleepers who are combination. Like the Coop Home Goods Retreat topper, this one provides relief from pressure for shoulder and neck pain. This topper has one drawback It is that it doesn't breathe as well as foam or latex and is therefore not the ideal choice for hot sleepers.

5. Nolah Beds Luxury Plush Memory Foam Topper

The Nolah Beds Luxury Plush Memory Foam Topper is a great option for back sleepers who want to soften their firm mattress as well as for side sleepers who require more cushioning. This topper is also great for those suffering from chronic pain since it helps reduce pressure points. It's manufactured in the USA using non-toxic materials and is a good choice for those who sleep hot. It features two" layer of clever copper-infused foam that promotes breathability while also providing support. It also comes with an organic cotton cover that provides optimal moisture management. The topper was discovered by our test subject Paige to be extremely efficient in blocking motion transfer. It also gave substantial softness without giving up any support. However, she noticed that the edges did not fully hug her mattress. If support for the edges is important to you, this may not be the ideal mattress for your needs.

This topper is also easy to clean as it has an easily washable and removable cover. It's also hypoallergenic and antibacterial, ensuring a healthy sleep. It also has five body zones to support different areas of the mattress. It also comes with a warranty and a 120-night sleep trial, which is much longer than competitors' policies.

This is one of our cheapest alternatives however it doesn't sacrifice quality. It's constructed with a mix of memory foam and latex which provides an exquisitely soft feel to any mattress. It has a thicker layer of memory foam that provides more comfort and encourage an unwinding sleep. Although it's not the best option for stomach sleepers since it tends to sink too much, and may cause misalignment of the spine, it's a solid option for those who are trying to get better sleep for less.