Seven Explanations On Why Mattress Topper Is Important
How to Find the Mattress Topper Best For You
A mattress topper is the quickest and easiest way to upgrade your sleeping surface. The most popular materials include memory foam, polyfoam and latex.
A memory foam mattress is perfect for mattresses that are too sagging or beds that have too many bounce. It conforms to the body and provides the support needed to ease back pain.
Comfort
A mattress topper can soften mattresses that are too firm. It can also provide more support that can ease back pain by conforming to the body's shape. Memory foam toppers can ease pressure, whereas latex provides more bounce and breathability than polyurethane.
A topper's firmness can be determined by the fabric, along with your weight, sleeping position and your personal preference. Side sleepers may prefer an option that is more soft, whereas back or stomach sleepers will prefer a medium firm option. The thickness of a topper can also impact comfort. While thicker toppers may offer more cushioning, it is possible that they will not conform to your bed and cause uncomfortable feelings.
The best mattress topper for a majority of people will be made from soft, durable 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). Toppers can be washed in the machine to keep it fresh and clean.
Testers at GH rate topper for the ease of use and temperature control as well as how it affects the feel of their mattress. We also want to know whether the topper stays in its place, if the topper makes any noise and how much better their sleep is.
The Saatva topper at the top of our list has a great customer satisfaction rating of 4.4 out of 5 (as of May 2023) and is available in the queen size. It's made of a two-inch layer of bouncy open-cell foam to contour to your body and adjust to movement, providing support while keeping you cool.
Turmerry organic toppers are a more affordable alternative. They are a soft and firm option with a 3-inch layer composed of natural materials that breathe. It's an excellent choice for those who have a bed that is sagging or innerspring mattresses that have too much bounce or couples who want to reduce the feel of motion transfer.
Another popular option is the GOTS certified mattress topper by Linenspa. 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 constructed of organic materials and does not contain chemicals or synthetic dyes.
Support
A mattress topper is a thick layer that sits on top of your mattress. It secures to your mattress via elasticated straps or a skirt that is stretchy and ranges in thickness between two and four inches. Mattress protectors are covers that shield your mattress from allergens, spills and bed bugs.
The best mattress toppers can make a difference in your sleeping habits and help you alleviate pains and aches such as those caused by an older or less than ideal mattress. They can also improve a mattress that is uncomfortable or sagging, by providing the proper amount of support, softness and temperature control.
You'll find 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 mattress filled with gel can help to reduce heat retention which makes it a great option for hot sleepers who struggle with night sweats.
If you're suffering from back pain, a memory foam topper can help keep your spine aligned by reducing pressure on the sensitive areas. If you struggle with a sore back, a topper that is infused with copper can reduce inflammation and swelling, and it may also alleviate pain from pressure points.
A mattress cover made of natural fibers, like cotton or wool, can help you sleep cooler and more comfortably. Wool is durable, breathable and moisture-wicking. It is also moldable. It is 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 down mattress topper is perfect for those who want an incredibly soft feel. Find one that contains feathers and down to create an extravagant feel that wraps your body in a luxurious feeling of. This Brooklyn Bedding topper is a good choice as it is available in firm for those who require extra support and durability and plush for those who want softness that resembles a cloud. It comes with a five-year guarantee and includes an extensive trial period as well as free shipping.
Temperature Control
This topper is cooling and cushioning. It can be put on a memory foam mattress. It's made of gel-infused memory foam that's ventilated by holes. This makes it breathable and helps to disperse the heat as you rest. It comes with bamboo-covered mattresses that are soft, moisture-resistant and wicking. This keeps you cool as you sleep.
The topper is available in a variety of thicknesses, based on what you prefer. It also comes with a 10 year guarantee. If you prefer a more firm feel this topper is available in a Luxury Firm variant (similar to a medium or 7 out of 10). Both are made in the United States and come with a 100-night trial.
Foam and latex mattress toppers are both breathable that makes them great choices for hot sleepers. However, some toppers made of latex and memory foam can hold body heat and cause discomfort for some people. Look for cooling components, like this Nolah model. It features cooling fibers within the quilted cover, and utilizes the trademark foam of the company to keep you cool as you sleep. It also offers zones of support for the hips, shoulders and the head.
Another method to ensure a cool night's sleep is by using mattress protectors. These protectors are able to be placed over the mattress and protect it against spills, allergens and other things. This one has zips and is machine washable, making it easy to clean and get rid of.
If you prefer to sleep on your back or stomach, you will want a mattress topper that provides plenty of support. A mattress that's too hard could cause you to hunch over and can cause neck or back pain. Additional comfort is offered by soft foam and toppers made of down or alternative down. Strategist contributing writer Lauren Levy slept on this one from Parachute and claims to have woken up feeling "gently in between layers of marshmallow softness." It's also available in an organic cotton version, which is hypoallergenic and has been certified as OEKO-TEX Standard 100 Global Organic Textile Standards, Fair for Life and GreenGuard Gold.
Breathability
A mattress topper is an excellent way to improve an old mattress without breaking the budget. Finding the right mattress topper can be challenging particularly with the many options available. Whether your mattress is starting to get sagging, you're suffering from back pain or need to lessen the feeling of motion transfer from one person to the next, the correct mattress can make all the difference.
The material used in a topper could affect its feel. It can also affect your back health. For instance, experts advise that those who sleep on their sides should use a soft topper, while stomach or back sleepers require a firmer option.
You can narrow your options by taking into consideration other factors, such as the thickness and breathability. Although thicker toppers are more expensive, they offer more support. They are also more breathable, as they have a larger surface area that allows air to circulate. Look for models that have baffle box construction. This will prevent clumping, and ensures that the filling is evenly distributed (a major benefit for comfort).
If you sleep hot, consider gel-infused memory foam, which is designed to keep you cool while you sleep. You might also want to consider a latex mattress that is extremely durable and springy. If you're looking to stay away from chemicals organic wool or cotton are excellent choices.
Although a mattress topper doesn't have to be cleaned as often as sheets, you should still choose a model that is easy to clean and will be able to withstand repeated washings. Many of the models we tested have wide elastic straps that connect them to your mattress, making it easier to take them off and wash them. Also, you'll need a topper that can be held securely in place on the mattress, particularly when you're a hybrid sleeper who moves frequently during the night.
The Brooklyn Bedding gel swirl memory foam mattress topper is a certified CertiPUR-US and GREENGUARD Gold-certified option that is durable and comfortable. It's more expensive than other models that we have reviewed, but it has excellent reviews from customers and comes with 90-day money-back assurance.