Want to sleep better but don’t want to splurge for a new mattress? That’s easy. All you need to do is buy a mattress topper!
Not everyone recognizes the importance of mattress toppers, but they can actually make a world of a difference when it comes to the quality of your sleep.
Sure, they may seem like a hunk of fluff you tack on top of your existing mattress, but the best mattress toppers deliver extra support and pressure relief, with some even having the ability to regulate your body temperature. They’re a worthy investment — one you’ll thank yourself later for.
How often should I change the mattress topper?
Most mattress toppers have a life span of three to five years, but that still depends on the type you buy. But since they’re much thinner and lighter than actual mattresses, they can lose shape much more quickly. Of course, the best mattress toppers may have better longevity, especially if they’re made of high-quality material like memory foam or wool.
What type of mattress topper is best?
Whatever type of mattress topper you end up choosing, you’ll still be getting the additional comfort you need. But generally speaking, the best mattress toppers are those made with durable materials like latex and memory foam.
Those with cooling properties and additional features for spinal support are also preferable since they can help make you sleep more soundly.
“It’s really important to look for a mattress topper that suits your needs,” says HELLO! Online Senior Lifestyle Editor Karen Silas. “I needed one with quick delivery for an uncomfortable sofa bed that I have for guests. It needed to be stored away easily and I hardly ever use it, so I chose one on Amazon that was on the inexpensive side – similar to this one – and is easily stored in a closet.
Another thing to take into consideration: be sure to measure your mattress precisely so you can choose the right size! There’s nothing worse than a mattress topper that doesn’t completely cover the bed or one that hangs off the sides.”
How did we choose the best mattress toppers?
While we haven't been able to personally test all the mattress toppers on our list, we took the following aspects into consideration:
- Comfort: The primary consideration we took into consideration was comfort – does the mattress topper have such must-have characteristics as being hypoallergenic, moisture-wicking and/or antimicrobial?
- Thickness: The mattress toppers we’ve chosen range in thickness from 2” to 4”, which is generally optimal. If you’re wondering which is best for your mattress, you’ll need to take into consideration the condition of the mattress underneath – if it’s pretty worn or too firm for you, you’ll want to opt for a thicker topper.
- Support: While the purpose of a mattress topper may be to add a level of comfort we also looked at support, with mattress toppers featuring pressure relief a main focus. A mattress topper that’s too soft may lead to back pain - defeating the purpose of the instant mattress upgrade.
- Convenience: Easy storage is also something we considered, and so should you! Is the topper one for a guest room, for example, that you’ll want to put away? In that case an easily-storable mattress topper, that can be rolled up or folded, is the best choice for you.
- Reputation: We only chose mattress toppers from retailers we trust and we think you should trust, too.
Shop the best mattress toppers
There are nearly as many mattress toppers as there are mattresses, so it can be overwhelming to shop for one, especially if it’s your first time. To help you out, here are some of the best mattress toppers for different kinds of sleepers...
Best memory foam mattress toppers
Lucid Comfort Gel and Aloe Memory Foam Mattress Topper, $119.99, Wayfair
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Thickness: 3”
One of the more affordable toppers out there, this option offers contouring comfort for enhanced back, hip, and shoulder alignment, as well as gel and aloe vera infusion to help get rid of night sweats. It’s also hypoallergenic, making it ideal for people allergic to mold and mildew.
Mattress Topper, $445, Saatva
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Thickness: 3”
Made out of premium memory foam, this topper helps limit motion transfer and deliver pressure relief. Its cover features moisture-wicking organic cotton for comfort, and with elastic anchor bands, the topper will barely move.
BEST SELLER: Linenspa 2 Inch Memory Foam Mattress Topper, $39.99, Amazon
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Thickness: 2"
This mattress topper is one of the most affordable on the market and is a great value for money. The pros are it is lightweight, made for comfort from memory foam and is CertiPUR-US certified. The downside is that it's just two inches thick and is not super firm if that's what you're looking for. Plus the inexpensive material means it likely won't last as long as a more expensive model.
Best cooling mattress toppers
Memory Foam Topper, was $349 now $299, Layla
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Thickness: 2"
This topper is filled with copper gel beads that work to absorb your body heat throughout the night, or however long you’re lying down. It’s naturally antimicrobial, too, meaning it’s capable of eliminating bacteria.
Active Cooling Copper Topper, was $469.95 now $349.95, Viscosoft
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Thickness: 4"
Thanks to the combination of copper-infused foam and structural foam, this topper not only disperses body heat but also promotes spinal alignment. Completely adaptable, it caters to any type of sleeper. And unlike other toppers, it has phase-changing yarns on the cover that adjusts according to the room’s ambient temperature.
Best mattress toppers for back pain
TEMPUR-Adapt® Topper, was $419 now $251.40, Tempur-Pedic
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Thickness: 3”
While this topper clocks in at only three inches, it’s made out of the popular technology Tempur-Adapt is famous for. It boasts adaptive pressure relief and the ability to respond to your weight, shape, and temperature.
100% Natural Latex Mattress Topper Extra-Firm, was $511 now $383, Plush Beds
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Thickness: 2" or 3" - you choose
As soft and plush as they come despite being extra-firm, this mattress topper delivers pressure relief, superior support, and a buttery, luxurious feel. It contains zero blends, synthetics, or chemicals, which means it’s completely natural.
Down Alternative Mattress Topper, $259, Parachute
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Thickness: 3"
If you want to feel what it’s like to sleep on a cloud or a giant marshmallow, this topper’s got your back — literally. It’s made out of hypoallergenic down alternative feathers and features two layers of plush microfiber to make you feel like you’re being hugged.
Soft Latex Topper, from $379, Nest Bedding
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Thickness: 3”
This topper, available in sizes twin to California King, is designed to soften up overly firm mattresses (or some have even used it on the floor!). It’s made from eco-friendly materials, from the comfort foam to the organic knit cotton and Joma wool cover.