Best Mattress Topper [Review] in 2021

Best Mattress Topper Buyers Guide

Mattress Topper Q&A

When should you buy a new mattress topper?

This is a difficult question to answer, as it often depends on your individual situation and the type of mattress topper that you have.

Mattress toppers do not last nearly as long as mattresses, and many consumers actually use inexpensive mattress toppers as a way to minimize wear and tear on a luxury mattress. There are a few things to consider before deciding if it is time to buy a new mattress topper.

You should always look for signs that your mattress topper is not doing its job as well as it used to. For example, if you start to feel sagging anywhere on the topper, that is a sure sign that it needs to be replaced.

Another sign that you should consider replacing your mattress topper is if you notice pain or stiffness in your joints and muscles after you sleep, or if you are tossing and turning all night trying to get comfortable.

This may mean that your topper has worn down and is no longer able to provide you with the support that you need.

It can be difficult to determine if these problems are caused by the mattress topper or the mattress itself. To solve this problem, sleep for a few nights without your mattress topper. If the problems get significantly worse than it is likely due to your mattress.

However, if the problem improves or stays the same, you should look into replacing your mattress topper. You should also consider replacing your mattress topper regardless of its performance if you have had it for over five years.

Mattress technology can change quite a bit during that period of time, so you’ll want to at least consider other options on the market to see if there is anything that can better address the issues you have while you sleep.

How does a mattress topper help you sleep better?

There are many ways that a mattress topper can change the way that you sleep. Mattress toppers are designed to really cradle your body when you lay on them, which makes it much easier to relax when you are trying to wind down after a long day.

Most mattress toppers are also designed to provide support for your bones and muscles. If you suffer from chronic pain or injuries, you will likely find that using a mattress topper can help these issues subside.

Some mattress toppers are also designed specifically to help keep you cool as you sleep, another great perk.

Another reason to use a mattress topper is to counteract any negative effects that your mattress may be having on your body.

Many people buy an expensive mattress, only to find out that it is too soft or too firm for their liking. Instead of returning the mattress, a great way to correct this problem is to find a mattress topper that has the feeling that you want from your bed.

It can really work to eliminate the problems you are having with your mattress. A mattress topper can also help your mattress last much longer, which will definitely help you to sleep better for years to come.

How do I clean my memory foam mattress topper?

One of the biggest concerns with mattress toppers is that they are difficult to clean. Keeping your bed clean is important because you spend so much time on it every day. You do not want your mattress to build up bacteria, mold, or mildew over time.

You also don’t want stains to soil the look of your mattress topper either. It helps to look for a mattress topper that is specifically designed for good airflow, which will prevent the buildup of harmful materials in your bed, to begin with.

Most mattress toppers come with a fabric cover, many of which are machine washable. Many of these are also easy to spot clean if you notice a stain. However, cleaning the memory foam itself is a bit more difficult to do.

Knowing how to clean your mattress topper is just as important as knowing how to clean a mattress. 

You’ll need to clean it by hand, as trying to clean a mattress topper with a machine will surely damage it. Take the topper off of your bed and move it to the floor in a ventilated area. Putting it by a window or door is usually the best way to do this.

Use a handheld vacuum with a gentle soft brush attachment to remove dust and other materials from your mattress topper.

Once that’s done, you’ll need to clean any stains. You can do this by blotting the stain with water and boric acid. You can also use hydrogen peroxide, a harsher stain remover, for any particularly tricky stains, like urine.

If your mattress topper has any off-putting odors as well, you can cover it with a light layer of baking soda and let it sit for roughly twelve hours.

Finally, change the topper so the bottom is facing up, and then use a spray bottle to cover it in a light layer of very gentle laundry detergent. Once it’s dry, use your vacuum to get rid of any residue, and then let it dry for a full day before sleeping on it again.

What’s the ideal mattress topper thickness?

The ideal mattress topper thickness depends on your personal needs. Generally, two to three inches works well for most people.

A two-inch mattress topper will provide you with a good balance of support and plushness. A three-inch mattress topper will be more supportive and is ideal for those who have joint issues.

There are also mattress toppers available that are under two inches. These are generally designed more for comfort than support and tend to feel softer than their thicker counterparts. They won’t make much of a difference in the firmness of your mattress.

Additionally, you can buy mattress toppers that are over three inches thick. These are usually intended to be for heavier sleepers, or for those that need an orthopedic level of support.

How long will my mattress topper last?

This depends on the type of mattress topper that you purchase. Generally, the price of a mattress topper is a good indicator of how long it will last – more expensive toppers tend to be the most durable.

However, this is not always the case, as there are some inexpensive toppers that are very well constructed that can last you for several years.

An average mattress topper will last you somewhere around five years. Obviously, this depends on the level of wear and tear that your mattress topper takes. High-quality foam, latex, or fiber mattress toppers may last you as long as ten years.

These toppers generally are constructed more carefully and are less likely to be subject to sagging or falling apart. A warranty may be an indication of how long the manufacturer expects the

product to last, but since many toppers don’t have warranties or have very short warranties, you should not consider this to be the guaranteed lifespan of the product.

What is the best mattress topper for side sleepers?

Side sleepers often have trouble finding a great mattress topper. Since side sleepers tend to experience more pain and stiffness after sleep than back or stomach sleepers, they need a mattress topper that is really going to minimize pressure points and cradle their body as they sleep.

Memory foam toppers are generally a very good option for those who sleep on their side as they hug the body’s contours and reduce the tension that is caused by pressure points as you sleep.

Side sleepers tend to put pressure on their shoulders, hips, and knees, so having this level of support is very important.

If you don’t want to use a memory foam topper because of the polyurethane used in the materials, but you want a similar feel, a latex topper could also be a good option. Latex is natural and hypoallergenic, and it provides a very supportive, almost bouncy feel that is great for those with joint pain and other issues.

Side sleepers should avoid mattress toppers that don’t provide true support for your joints. Generally, fiber toppers such as down and wool toppers won’t provide the level of support that they need to stay healthy.

What is the best mattress topper for a sofa bed?

Since sofa beds can often be very uncomfortable, adding a mattress topper to them is a great way to make them more bearable. However, you need to find a mattress topper that will fit the size of the bed, and that is easy to move around from the bed to storage.

You should always measure the size of the bed before buying a mattress topper, and this becomes even more important when you are buying a sofa bed, as you don’t want the topper moving around during the night. You also may want to opt for a lighter, thinner topper in this case.

Although this may mean that you don’t get quite as much support as you would like, it makes the topper much easier to move around when you are not using the sofa bed, and it may even be able to fold up for easier storage.

If you are overwhelmed by choice, a lightweight memory foam mattress topper is a great choice. Look for one with some gel inserts to help your guests stay cool during the night as well.

Best Mattress Topper Buyers Guide

Thickness

Mattress toppers come in a variety of thicknesses to suit the size of your bed as well as your own personal preference.

Mattress toppers generally range between one inch and four inches in thickness, and the thicker the topper is, the more expensive it generally is as well (although there are some exceptions to this rule).

If you just want to make your mattress last longer and improve the initial feeling of comfort of your bed, then a one to two-inch topper will likely be sufficient for you.

You also may want to choose this level of thickness if your mattress is already very thick so that you don’t add too much depth to it.

However, if you struggle with joint pain, then you may choose to invest in a thicker mattress topper. These are great for side sleepers and will make a huge difference in how your mattress feels.

If you want to completely change the way you sleep, then you may want a thicker mattress topper.

Density

In addition to choosing a thickness for your mattress topper, you will also need to decide how dense you would like it to be.

Just like mattresses themselves, mattress toppers come in a variety of different densities, and which one you choose depends on the way you like your bed to feel. The density of your topper is measured in the weight per cubic foot of space.

Generally, most people aim for a denser mattress topper because it provides more support for the body.

Dense memory foams also conform to the body very well, which tends to feel better while you sleep. A densely made mattress topper will also last a long time and will promote regular air flow.

A good density is usually anywhere between three and five pounds per cubic foot. However, denser mattress toppers are also usually more expensive, so if you are on a budget and find that you don’t need too much support, then a density of one to two pounds might work well for you.

Ventilation & Airflow

When purchasing a mattress topper, it is important to take into account the topper’s ability to keep you cool at night and promote good airflow through the topper and the underlying mattress.

If your mattress doesn’t keep you cool and you are particularly sensitive to temperature during the night, then buying a mattress topper with great ventilation can make a big difference in the way that you sleep.

Many mattress toppers have very specific mechanisms to keep the user cool, such as gel toppers to keep temperatures down or open cell memory foam to promote airflow.

If you choose a mattress topper with no ventilation mechanisms, then you will likely find yourself heating up at night as your temperature increases.

Good airflow through the mattress is also important because it helps keep you healthy as you sleep. Without proper airflow, it is easy for dust and bacteria to build up inside the mattress, which can lead to allergies and even illnesses in the future.

Warranty

Just like mattresses themselves, most mattress toppers come with a warranty. The warranty allows you to get your money back in the event of a manufacturer defect.

Although you probably don’t anticipate having an issue with your mattress topper, it is good to have a comprehensive warranty just in case of a problem when you are spending so much money on a product.

Some companies offer a trial period in addition to your warranty where you can send back the mattress if you are dissatisfied with it.

Mattresses generally have warranties ranging from 10 to 20 years, and most mattress toppers offer a similar warranty. However, don’t assume that your mattress topper will last as long as the warranty (or as long as the mattress underneath it).

Most mattress toppers do not last anywhere close to 10 years long, as they take more wear and tear than a mattress.

Top Brands

There are many brands to choose from when picking a mattress topper. Some brands have a better reputation than others, but ultimately the brand you choose will depend on factors like price and accessibility as well as reputation.

Many big-box stores such as Walmart, Costco, and Target sell their own mattress toppers as well as mattress toppers from other brands. These are usually a good choice if you are on a budget. Most high-end mattress stores also sell mattress toppers as well, and these brands are usually reputable.

There are also some online-only mattress toppers that complement the mattress in a box trend that has been popular over the past several years.

You’ll likely see tons of brands when doing your shopping, but some that you will likely see many options from including DreamFoam, Lucid, Sleep Innovations, Ultimate Sleep and more.

However, don’t write off any brands when doing your shopping, as you can often find great deals on genuinely high-quality mattress toppers if you are willing to dig deep while shopping.

Spring vs. Foam Mattresses

Another important factor to consider when buying a mattress topper is the type of mattress you have underneath it. Spring and foam mattresses feel very different from each other, and because of this, you’ll need to choose different mattress toppers to accompany them.

If you have a spring mattress topper, you’ll likely want a dense memory foam topper that is designed to provide support and reduce pressure, as springs can increase pain in your joints over time without proper cushioning.

However, if you have a foam mattress, then you’ll likely just be focused on making the mattress more comfortable instead of providing support since you’ll already be getting that from the mattress.

A thinner mattress topper will likely be more than enough to make the mattress super comfy.

The Different Types of Mattress Toppers

Memory Foam Toppers

A huge percentage of the mattress toppers that are currently on the market contain some percentage of memory foam. Memory foam is made from polyurethane and is designed to contour to the body as you sleep. It feels very comfortable, which is why it is used so often in mattress toppers.

Memory foam is also very supportive, and it reduces the pressure put on your joints by a spring mattress, for example.

Most memory foam mattress toppers are designed to feel fairly soft, but higher density memory foam has a stronger, more durable feel. If you sleep with a partner, memory foam can also help reduce motion transfer, so you’ll sleep more soundly.

While there are many benefits to using a memory foam mattress topper, there are some downsides to be aware of as well.

The biggest is that memory foam is made with a process that can release strong chemicals into the product, which result in a strong odor and are believed to be potentially harmful to your health (although this is not true of all memory foam products).

However, many companies have addressed this problem by developing their own production systems that are more natural.

Another downside to being aware of with memory foam is that it can sometimes be difficult to move around on since it conforms to the shape of your body. Many people don’t mind this, but if you are sensitive to it, you may want to pick a different material.

Latex Mattress Toppers

This is another material that is used in many popular mattress toppers. Unlike memory foam, which has conforming properties, latex generally feels somewhat springy and reacts to your movements, allowing you to move around on the bed comfortably.

It also provides great support for your joints because of its reactive tendencies. Latex is a popular choice for eco-conscious customers because it is made without the chemicals that are commonly used in memory foam and is very natural.

Because of this, you don’t get the same off-putting smell that sometimes happens with memory foam.

Latex also helps you sleep cooler because of the way that it moves during the night. Because it moves naturally, it helps push the air through the mattress topper. The springy nature of latex foam also prevents sagging and is very durable.

However, some latex mattress topper can feel uncomfortable for some people because they aren’t as soft as their counterparts made from other materials.

The best latex mattress toppers are also fairly expensive to produce, so they might not be the best choice for you if you are on a budget.

Down Mattress Toppers

Many mattress toppers and pads are made using a blend of down and feathers, which are known for being extremely comfortable.

They feel very cozy and soft and pair well with a firm, supportive mattress because they do not affect the actual support level that your mattress has the way other toppers do. They just help you sleep more comfortably.

Like a memory foam mattress, they also conform to the shape of your body as you sleep. Down toppers are also an amazing choice if you tend to sleep very hot and need something that will regulate your body temperature.

They do not retain any heat at all, and they can also minimize the amount of heat that you feel if your mattress does not have a good cooling system. They are also quite inexpensive.

However, there are some cons to keep in mind with down mattress toppers. The first is that they can sometimes be too soft, and don’t provide any support for your spine or your joints.

If you decide to go with a down mattress topper, you will need to use a mattress that already provides you with tons of support.

They also aren’t the most durable choice, as they tend to sag and flatten out over time.

This can be managed during the cleaning process, but over time, the topper is bound to lose its shape. Finally, some consumers may object to the use of bird feathers in their mattress topper, so check the materials list before making a purchase.

Fiberbed Mattress Toppers

If you like the feel of a down mattress topper, but don’t want to purchase an actual down product, fiber bed mattress toppers are designed to feel similar but use puffballs or polyester fibers instead of real down.

Many people prefer this option because they are more eco-friendly than down toppers and memory foam toppers.

Fiberbed mattress toppers generally have the same pros and cons as their down counterparts. They are affordable and feel soft and cozy, but do not last very long and can flatten out over time.

They are somewhat different than down toppers in that they can add a small bit of support to the mattress, depending on the way it is engineered.

However, consumers with serious back or joint pain should not rely on this as a way to relieve that. Fiberbed toppers can also trap heat in a way that down toppers do not, so chronically hot sleepers should be aware of this.

Wool Mattress Toppers

Although they are not particularly common, there are some wool toppers available on the market. Like down and fiber bed toppers, they feel extremely soft and are easy to move around on.

They don’t provide much support but can help you feel more comfortable and sleep peacefully.

They are also extremely durable and can last for years. However, this is reflected in the price, as they are one of the most expensive types of mattresses available.

Wool toppers can keep you warm in the winter and relieve some heat in the summer because of the way they absorb moisture.

Memory Foam Mattress Toppers

Because they are far and away the most popular type of mattress topper on the market, memory foam toppers come in many different specifications and types.

Many brands have their own unique ways of constructing memory foam, which can lead to a different feel on the bed.

For example, some brands design their memory foam toppers to be open cell, which helps improve airflow.

This is extremely important because memory foam will naturally trap heat. Many brands also are trying to reduce the number of chemicals used during the creation of their memory foam mattresses, as these are potentially damaging to the environment.

If this is something you are concerned about, look for mattress toppers that are labeled ‘natural’, or read up about the brand before making a purchase.

Memory foam toppers also come in a variety of thicknesses and densities to provide consumers with options when it comes to the level of support that the topper offers.

Memory foam toppers range in thickness from one to four inches, and the thicker the topper is, the more it will change the feel of your mattress and provide extra support for your body.

Memory foam is also made in varying densities. A lightweight foam will not provide as much support for the body as a heavier foam.

If you prefer a soft bed, you will likely be interested in trying a light foam, whereas if you have joint pain or are on the heavy side, you’ll be needing a dense foam.

There are a few different consistencies that memory foam comes in. They are:

Cooling Mattress Toppers

Since many people deal with the problem of feeling overheated as they sleep, many mattress toppers are designed specifically to help the user cool down. These mattress toppers are often intended to be used with mattresses that trap heat to reduce the problem.

There are several different ways that manufacturers change the structure of their mattress toppers to help their users stay cool.

As previously mentioned, many memory foam products are now infused with gel to combat the problem of heat getting trapped in the foam during sleep.

These products infuse a gel into the structure of the foam, which prevents heat from building up in the mattress topper.

This does not change the way the texture of the topper feels during sleep. Since the gel is infused throughout the topper in this instance, you will maintain a comfortable temperature even if you move around while you sleep.

Many mattress toppers include a layer of gel instead of infusing it into the foam itself. This layer could sit on top of the mattress topper, or be in the middle of it. Having a solid layer of gel will ensure that the topper feels very comfortable and does not build up the heat at all.

However, this will not necessarily increase airflow, so dust and bacteria can still get trapped in the product.

Some cooling mattress toppers also use an open cell construction of foam. This helps increase airflow throughout the mattress.

This not only keeps you cool but ensures that you will have a healthier sleep as well. If you can find an open cell memory foam mattress topper that is infused with gel, this will often be your best option for staying cool as you sleep.

If you would prefer not to use a memory foam mattress topper, consider instead opting for a latex or down mattress topper. Both of these materials tend to be relatively cool when compared to memory foam.

There are many benefits to using a cooling mattress topper. You’ll stay sound asleep at night, even in the summer, and you won’t wake up feeling sweaty and overheated.

Many of these toppers also provide great ventilation, which will help keep the air moving in your bedroom and prevent dust from building up in your bed.

If your mattress does not provide any cooling options, then adding a cooling mattress topper to your bed can be a great way to stay more comfortable at night without having to replace your entire mattress.

Since mattress pads and toppers are relatively inexpensive, you can pair a topper with an affordable mattress and get the same feeling that you would with a very pricey mattress on its own.

When choosing a cooling mattress, don’t just look at the gel technology – check the ventilation and other construction factors as well to help you make the best choice.

How Much Should You Spend On A Mattress Topper?

There are mattress toppers available at many different price points. Here’s what you can expect from mattress toppers in the following price categories.

Although it is true that many expensive mattress toppers are very good, don’t rule out inexpensive ones either. There are many options that provide great value for money.

Although it is true that many expensive mattress toppers are very good, don’t rule out inexpensive ones either. There are many options that provide great value for money.

Mattress Topper Q&A

When should you buy a new mattress topper?

This is a difficult question to answer, as it often depends on your individual situation and the type of mattress topper that you have.

Mattress toppers do not last nearly as long as mattresses, and many consumers actually use inexpensive mattress toppers as a way to minimize wear and tear on a luxury mattress. There are a few things to consider before deciding if it is time to buy a new mattress topper.

You should always look for signs that your mattress topper is not doing its job as well as it used to. For example, if you start to feel sagging anywhere on the topper, that is a sure sign that it needs to be replaced.

Another sign that you should consider replacing your mattress topper is if you notice pain or stiffness in your joints and muscles after you sleep, or if you are tossing and turning all night trying to get comfortable.

This may mean that your topper has worn down and is no longer able to provide you with the support that you need.

It can be difficult to determine if these problems are caused by the mattress topper or the mattress itself. To solve this problem, sleep for a few nights without your mattress topper. If the problems get significantly worse than it is likely due to your mattress.

However, if the problem improves or stays the same, you should look into replacing your mattress topper. You should also consider replacing your mattress topper regardless of its performance if you have had it for over five years.

Mattress technology can change quite a bit during that period of time, so you’ll want to at least consider other options on the market to see if there is anything that can better address the issues you have while you sleep.

How does a mattress topper help you sleep better?

There are many ways that a mattress topper can change the way that you sleep. Mattress toppers are designed to really cradle your body when you lay on them, which makes it much easier to relax when you are trying to wind down after a long day.

Most mattress toppers are also designed to provide support for your bones and muscles. If you suffer from chronic pain or injuries, you will likely find that using a mattress topper can help these issues subside.

Some mattress toppers are also designed specifically to help keep you cool as you sleep, another great perk.

Another reason to use a mattress topper is to counteract any negative effects that your mattress may be having on your body.

Many people buy an expensive mattress, only to find out that it is too soft or too firm for their liking. Instead of returning the mattress, a great way to correct this problem is to find a mattress topper that has the feeling that you want from your bed.

It can really work to eliminate the problems you are having with your mattress. A mattress topper can also help your mattress last much longer, which will definitely help you to sleep better for years to come.

How do I clean my memory foam mattress topper?

One of the biggest concerns with mattress toppers is that they are difficult to clean. Keeping your bed clean is important because you spend so much time on it every day. You do not want your mattress to build up bacteria, mold, or mildew over time.

You also don’t want stains to soil the look of your mattress topper either. It helps to look for a mattress topper that is specifically designed for good airflow, which will prevent the buildup of harmful materials in your bed, to begin with.

Most mattress toppers come with a fabric cover, many of which are machine washable. Many of these are also easy to spot clean if you notice a stain. However, cleaning the memory foam itself is a bit more difficult to do.

You’ll need to clean it by hand, as trying to clean a mattress topper with a machine will surely damage it. Take the topper off of your bed and move it to the floor in a ventilated area. Putting it by a window or door is usually the best way to do this.

Use a handheld vacuum with a gentle soft brush attachment to remove dust and other materials from your mattress topper.

Once that’s done, you’ll need to clean any stains. You can do this by blotting the stain with water and boric acid. You can also use hydrogen peroxide, a harsher stain remover, for any particularly tricky stains, like urine.

If your mattress topper has any off-putting odors as well, you can cover it with a light layer of baking soda and let it sit for roughly twelve hours.

Finally, change the topper so the bottom is facing up, and then use a spray bottle to cover it in a light layer of very gentle laundry detergent. Once it’s dry, use your vacuum to get rid of any residue, and then let it dry for a full day before sleeping on it again.

What’s the ideal mattress topper thickness?

The ideal mattress topper thickness depends on your personal needs. Generally, two to three inches works well for most people.

A two-inch mattress topper will provide you with a good balance of support and plushness. A three-inch mattress topper will be more supportive and is ideal for those who have joint issues.

There are also mattress toppers available that are under two inches. These are generally designed more for comfort than support and tend to feel softer than their thicker counterparts. They won’t make much of a difference in the firmness of your mattress.

Additionally, you can buy mattress toppers that are over three inches thick. These are usually intended to be for heavier sleepers, or for those that need an orthopedic level of support.

How long will my mattress topper last?

This depends on the type of mattress topper that you purchase. Generally, the price of a mattress topper is a good indicator of how long it will last – more expensive toppers tend to be the most durable.

However, this is not always the case, as there are some inexpensive toppers that are very well constructed that can last you for several years.

An average mattress topper will last you somewhere around five years. Obviously, this depends on the level of wear and tear that your mattress topper takes. High-quality foam, latex, or fiber mattress toppers may last you as long as ten years.

These toppers generally are constructed more carefully and are less likely to be subject to sagging or falling apart. A warranty may be an indication of how long the manufacturer expects the

product to last, but since many toppers don’t have warranties or have very short warranties, you should not consider this to be the guaranteed lifespan of the product.

What is the best mattress topper for side sleepers?

Side sleepers often have trouble finding a great mattress topper. Since side sleepers tend to experience more pain and stiffness after sleep than back or stomach sleepers, they need a mattress topper that is really going to minimize pressure points and cradle their body as they sleep.

Memory foam toppers are generally a very good option for those who sleep on their side as they hug the body’s contours and reduce the tension that is caused by pressure points as you sleep.

Side sleepers tend to put pressure on their shoulders, hips, and knees, so having this level of support is very important.

If you don’t want to use a memory foam topper because of the polyurethane used in the materials, but you want a similar feel, a latex topper could also be a good option. Latex is natural and hypoallergenic, and it provides a very supportive, almost bouncy feel that is great for those with joint pain and other issues.

Side sleepers should avoid mattress toppers that don’t provide true support for your joints. Generally, fiber toppers such as down and wool toppers won’t provide the level of support that they need to stay healthy.

What is the best mattress topper for a sofa bed?

Since sofa beds can often be very uncomfortable, adding a mattress topper to them is a great way to make them more bearable. However, you need to find a mattress topper that will fit the size of the bed, and that is easy to move around from the bed to storage.

You should always measure the size of the bed before buying a mattress topper, and this becomes even more important when you are buying a sofa bed, as you don’t want the topper moving around during the night. You also may want to opt for a lighter, thinner topper in this case.

Although this may mean that you don’t get quite as much support as you would like, it makes the topper much easier to move around when you are not using the sofa bed, and it may even be able to fold up for easier storage.

If you are overwhelmed by choice, a lightweight memory foam mattress topper is a great choice. Look for one with some gel inserts to help your guests stay cool during the night as well.