Are You Getting The Most Of Your Firm Mattress Topper?
Which Mattress Toppers Are Best?
A cushioning layer can make your bed more comfortable and can also ease tension on joints. But which mattress toppers are best?
Dr. Holliday Bell recommends this organic option for those who want the conforming support and comfort of memory foam but do not want to use chemicals. It has an easy-to-clean cover and the firmness options allow for the majority of sleepers to find their comfort.
1. Sleep Innovations Gel Memory Topper
This topper is soft enough for most people, yet it's not sacrificing support. It molded to the shape of our test subjects' bodies and provided support in all the right places. It is suitable for the majority of mattresses, however it can be a bit tricky to put the sheets on. (Read more about how to install mattress toppers here). Its thick memory foam layer is machine-washable and naturally anti-bacterial. It has a quilted bamboo cover that is non-toxic and sustainably sourced. Our panelists loved it, however, it is important to note that there aren't any straps to secure it to your mattress. It may move while you sleep.
The panelists who loved this topper also loved how it helped them with their back pain. It's a great option for heavier sleepers who may find that a topper with an average depth of three to four inches will ease pressure on a sensitive area such as hips and shoulders.
A memory foam with a copper-infused layer helps to wick away heat and encourages airflow for an ice-cold sleep. Our test participant Jaclyn found the mattress adequate in its firmness to ease pressure on her back, front, and side sleeping positions, but not so firm that it was uncomfortable. She also noticed that her back pain "pretty well disappeared overnight." She was also awed by the topper's quietness, even when paired with a spring mattress. The topper also blocks motion transfer, making it a good choice for couples who share beds.
2. Coop Home Goods Retreat
We love the plush pillow feel of Coop Home Goods' mattress toppers, so when this spot-clean-only version was discovered during our research, we knew it had to be included. It's stuffed with the brand's crosscut microfiber and memory foam, so it's hypoallergenic and perfect for those looking to make a change to an existing mattress or revitalize the look of a bed in a dorm room, guest room, or rental property. This topper is unique as it has five zones with different densities. It molds to your body and offers enough support.
The cover of this mattress protector is made of 100% microfiber that has been brushed. It has a baffle box design that allows pockets that evenly distribute the fill. It also has four elastic straps in each corner to keep the topper securely on your mattress. A layer of copper-infused memory foam wicks heat away from the body to keep you cool in the evening and is topped with a 2" layer of memory foam that is ventilated to allow for more airflow.
The Retreat is the ideal mattress topper for people who want a luxurious feel. Louise who is a Strategist writer, said that when she tried it out the topper quickly adapted and was cradled so that she was at ease and well-supported. She typically overheats in her bed, but she noticed that the Retreat helped keep her cool. It also didn't move a lot during the night. It is available in two levels of firmness which means it's suitable for stomach, back, and side sleepers.
3. Nolah Beds Luxury Firm Memory Foam Topper
There are plenty of options if you're looking for a mattress topper. Some are designed to keep you cool or regulate your temperature, while others provide a little extra support or comfort. A mattress topper is a great way to upgrade the comfort of your mattress without spending an excessive amount of money. A memory foam mattress is a good choice for the majority of sleepers, however if you prefer the bouncier feel of an innerspring mattress consider a hybrid topper that blends latex with tiny nano-springs.

For those who sleep on their sides and backs, a firmer topper will better align your spine and ease pressure on sensitive areas. Our test participant Julia was impressed with this four-inch topper by Tempur It is manufactured in the US and comes with an impressive 120-night trial. She was delighted with the extra comfort and quality of sleep it provided. She did notice an off-gassing odor when she first opened the mattress, but this went away after a day.
This firm version from Parachute provides memory foam that's shrunk and not as dense but feels comfortable. Lauren Levy, a Strategist contributor, says it's "much cheaper than a down topper" and offers similar 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 hypoallergenic and soft. However, it's not as breathable as memory foam and could make you feel warm at night. Cotton is a great choice, as it is air-conditioned and keeps you cool. Certain fabrics are infused with graphite or copper to keep your cool.
4. Sleep Innovations Gel Cooling Memory Foam Topper
This Puffy topper is a great value offering soft, comfortable support that relieves pressure at a low price. It comes in a variety different density and thickness options to ensure you get the best mattress.
Lauren Levy, a Strategist contributor, was awed by the fact that this topper is "marshmallow-soft" and has a baffle-box construction that has the appearance of a pillow with a fiber-fill. It's hypoallergenic and comes with a machine washable cover that will help you maintain the cleanliness in your mattress.
The topper's 2" layer of copper-infused memory foam encourages airflow and wicks away moisture while you sleep, allowing you to remain cool. Levy found that it was extremely comfortable, even when it didn't bounce nearly like latex toppers. It's perfect for back, side, or stomach sleepers, as well as those suffering from chronic pain who require extra cushioning.
A 10-year warranty as well as free shipping come standard. This topper is also easy to clean; just spot-clean it and allow it to dry in the sun. Be sure not to put it in the dryer or washer because it will invalidate the warranty.
The Sleep Innovations Gel Cooling Memory Foam Topper offers a great budget-friendly option for a comfortable soft mattress. It's medium (5) firm which makes it suitable for most sleepers. However those who feel their mattress is too firm can benefit from this product. It also prevents motion transfer which is a must for those who sleep in a combination. And, like mattress topper single , it offers pressure relief for neck and shoulder pain. The only drawback to this topper that it might not breathe as well as latex or foam and is therefore not the best choice for sleepers who are hot.
5. Nolah Beds Luxury Plush Memory Foam Topper
The Nolah Beds Luxury Plush Memory Foam Topper is an excellent choice for back sleepers looking to soften their firm mattress and side sleepers looking for more cushioning. This topper also helps reduce pressure points and is a great choice for those with chronic pain. It's manufactured in the USA with non-toxic components and is a good choice for those who sleep hot. It features two" layer of clever copper-infused foam that encourages breathable and also provides support. It also has an organic cotton cover that offers optimal moisture management. This topper was found by our test subject Paige to be very effective at blocking motion transfer. It also provided substantial softness, without losing any support. She noticed that the edges didn't completely hug her mattress. If edge support is important to you, this may not be the right topper for your needs.
The cover is machine washable, making it easy to clean. In addition, it's hypoallergenic as well as antibacterial to provide a healthy night's sleep. It's also made with five body zones that support different parts of the mattress. It also comes with a guarantee and a 120-night trial which is a lot longer than other mattress warranties.
This is among our less expensive options however it doesn't sacrifice quality. It is made from a mixture of natural latex and memory foam which gives it a luxuriously supple feel. It has a thicker memory foam layer to offer more comfort and promote a the restful sleep. It is not the best choice for stomach sleepers since it sinks in too much. This can lead to spinal misalignment. However, it's an excellent choice for those looking for an excellent night's sleep at less cost.