How to Choose a Mattress Topper
There are a wide variety of mattress toppers available, and unless you’re an expert on mattress toppers, it’s easy to get confused. You can use our guide below to pick the mattress topper that fits your needs best.
Size
Just like mattresses, mattress toppers come in a variety of sizes. If you know the size of your bed, you won’t have any problem choosing what size mattress topper to get. However, if you don’t know, it can be hard to decide due to the similarity in size names.
Here are the main Australian mattress/mattress topper sizes that you’re most likely to come across:
- Single size (92cm x 188 cm)
- Long single size (92cm x 203 cm)
- King single size (107cm x 203 cm)
- Double size (138cm x 188 cm)
- Queen size (153cm x 203 cm)
- King size (183cm x 203 cm)
- Super King size (203cm x 203 cm)
Material
Mattress toppers can be made out of a wide range of materials, as they can serve many different purposes. It’s crucial to pick one made of high-quality materials to ensure it lasts for a long time, but there’s more to it than just durability. Let’s look at some of the most popular materials used in mattress topper production, discuss their purposes, and see their pros and cons.
Bamboo
Bamboo is one of the healthiest materials used in mattress topper production, as it’s an organic material. The bamboo fabric is hypoallergenic, so it’s a safe choice for everyone, including kids.
Bamboo fabric can help keep you cool as you sleep and prevent moisture buildup inside your mattress. Moreover, bamboo is a very breathable material. This is a very important feature as you’ll be sleeping on your mattressevery night.
One downside of the bamboo fabric is that it needs special care. It will wear out much quicker than a synthetic fabric like polyester, and it’s usually not recommended to machine wash and tumble dry a bamboo mattress topper.
Memory Foam
Memory foam is widely used in bedding products such as pillows and mattresses. This is due to the ergonomic nature of memory foam, which helps relieve pressure off the body. Memory foam mattress toppers are available in different firmness levels and can be used to make your bed softer or firmer.
Mattress toppers made of memory foam are very durable. They are good for back pain as they support your body to keep your spine aligned while you sleep. However, they can absorb your body heat. Choose one with a porous structure that provides extra breathability to prevent it.
Latex
Latex mattress toppers usually add a firm but bouncy feel to your mattress. They can be made of natural or synthetic latex. Natural latex may not be suitable for allergy sufferers, but it has a much bouncier feel than synthetic, and it’s softer.
Synthetic latex is less bouncy and has a firmer feel. It can also give off a plastic smell, especially the first few times you use the mattress topper. On the other hand, they are more durable than natural latex, and they’re also free of allergens.
Feather and Down
Feather and down mattress toppers offer the best softness out of all the materials, but this comes at a price.
They are not very durable, and the feathers may start sticking out of the topper as the top layer wears over time. Some people may be allergic to these toppers as the feathers inside are collected from ducks or geese.
Microfiber and Hollowfibre
These are the most affordable mattress toppers you can find, and for a good reason. If you don’t want to spend too much, they do get the job done, but it’s generally not recommended to use a microfiber mattress topper.
Microfiber material traps heat inside, making sleeping in hot environments difficult. This material is also not super durable as it can sink down and flatten in a short period.
Wool
Wool is another material that offers a very soft sleep surface and a comfortable sleeping experience, but these mattress toppers are usually on the pricier side. They are also good at keeping bed bugs and mites away from your bed, as wool isn’t a material prone to infestations.
A downside of wool is that it can get too hot during the summer. Also, wool mattress toppers are a bit more expensive than the other materials. They are not great for making a bed firmer, but they definitely provide a soft surface if that’s what you’re looking for.
Thickness
You can choose the thickness of your mattress topper depending on what you intend to use it for. If you have a thin mattress that doesn’t offer much support, you can go for a thick mattress topper like theBambillo. These toppers are usually around 5-7 cm thick and can change the thickness of your bed.
If you’re satisfied with the thickness of your current mattress and just want a softer or cooler surface to sleep on, you can go for a thin mattress topper, which is usually about 3-4 cm in thickness.
Firmness
As we mentioned, mattress toppers can come in various firmness levels.
If you have a soft mattress and want to make it firmer, you can use a high-density memory foam or a latex mattress topper. For extra firmness, go for synthetic latex, which is also more durable and hypoallergenic.
If you want to make your bed softer, on the other hand, you can use a feather and down mattress topper, one of the softest options out there. Of course, you can also use a wool pillow top mattress topper like theHalcyon Dream wool topper, but wool tends to get too hot during the summer.
Sleep Position
Most people may not realize it, but your sleeping position plays an important role in your mattress topper choice.
Back sleepers can choose whatever type of mattress topper they want, as long as it offers average support. If you’re a side sleeper, on the other hand, your body will need extra support to keep your spine in a neutral position. Therefore, a mattress topper on the firmer side can be a good option.
Stomach sleepers usually need the most support out of all types of sleepers, which is why they need a very firm bed. Therefore, you can consider going for a mattress topper that can add firmness to your mattress, like thePeacelily.
Warranty
When you buy a mattress topper, you want to set it and forget it. A mattress topper is not something you want to replace regularly; it’s just inconvenient. This is why it’s essential to go for a durable mattress that can fulfill your needs for a long time. Look for good warranty coverage.
While some mattress toppers like the Peacelily offer extensive long-term warranties that last as long as 10 years, others can be for one year and only cover manufacturing errors or faulty material/craftsmanship. Therefore, it’s best to consider the warranty coverage before buying a mattress topper.
Lastly, make sure always to read the fine print. While some brands may offer a long-term warranty, they might only cover manufacturing errors, which isn’t much. Always read the terms of the warranty, and if the brand doesn’t offer a warranty, see if they offer at least a trial period.
Mattress Toppers: Frequently Asked Questions
When should I use a mattress topper?
Mattress toppers can serve many purposes. The main reason many people use a mattress topper is usually to make the mattress more comfortable. A mattress topper can achieve this by either making the mattress firmer or softer, depending on the kind you get.
Despite not being their primary purpose, mattress toppers protect the mattress and extend its lifespan. The right mattress topper can save your mattress from staining and sweating, and it also serves as a protection layer for usual wear and tear that might occur over time.
Additionally, if your mattress gets too hot during the summer, you can also use mattress toppers that offer a cooling feature like theOCTAsmart Topper, which creates a comfy bed while providing breathability.
What are mattress toppers made of?
Mattress toppers can be made out of a variety of materials. Some of the most popular materials are bamboo, synthetic and natural latex, feather, memory foam, microfiber, and wool.
How thick is a mattress topper?
Mattress toppers can be on the thinner side, which is around 2-4 cm, but there are also thicker ones available that are usually around 5-7 cm in thickness. If you want to raise your mattress a little and change the firmness of your bed, it’s recommended to go for a thicker mattress topper.
What kind of mattress topper is best for side sleepers?
Side sleepers will benefit from the additional support of a firmer mattress topper to maintain spinal alignment. Therefore, a latex or memory foam mattress topper like theIKEA Tussoyfrom our top picks above can be a great choice for side sleepers.
What is the best mattress topper for back pain?
If you’re suffering from chronic back pain, having a mattress topper that’s on the thicker side can provide pressure relief. As for the material choice, memory foam is known to provide great support and also provide relief in your body’s pressure points. A great memory foam topper you can go for is theOneBed mattress topperwe have reviewed above.
Are mattress toppers worth it?
A mattress topper can really help you sleep more comfortably. If you’re sleeping in a hot environment and having trouble falling asleep, you can find a mattress topper that can cool your body. Therefore, it’s safe to say that mattress toppers are worth it!
How long do mattress toppers last?
Since mattress toppers can be made of various materials, their lifespans vary as well.
Usually, memory foam and latex mattress toppers are the most durable ones, and they can last for as long as 5 years. This is the absolute longest you should keep your memory mattress topper as they sink and lose their firmness over time, and they can also get too dirty due to dead skin and dust accumulation.
As for other types of mattress toppers, it’s recommended to change them every couple of years at the latest.
How do bamboo toppers compare to cotton toppers?
Bamboo mattress toppers are in most cases far better than regular cotton toppers. They are softer and higher quality. Unlike regular cotton toppers, once washed bamboo toppers don’t lose their softness. We’d recommend checking out Ecoy’s bamboo mattress topper to find out more about the benefits.
FAQs
What is the best mattress topper for your bed? ›
- Tempur-Topper Supreme. ...
- ViscoSoft 4-Inch Active Cooling Memory Foam Mattress Topper. ...
- Saatva Foam Mattress Topper. ...
- Birch Plush Organic Mattress Topper. ...
- Sleep Innovations Ultra Soft Support Gel Memory Foam Dual Layer Mattress Topper. ...
- PlushBeds Extra Firm Natural Latex Topper.
They're some of the most comfortable materials hence why they're used to create our bed products! We've been asked "which is better: memory foam or feather" and to make it fair, the short answer is - neither are 'better'! While they serve the same purpose, both materials are different in their own way.
Do mattress toppers make a difference? ›A mattress topper is used to noticeably change a mattress' feel and provide extra pressure relief. Toppers can also revitalize an old mattress or lengthen the life of a new one. A mattress pad can make a bed feel slightly more plush, but it won't alter a mattress' firmness level.
Which is better wool or cotton mattress topper? ›Cotton is hypoallergenic, but not as resistant to dust mites as other mattress materials. Wool: Naturally mould and mildew resistant, wool wicks away moisture and keeps sleepers at a comfortable temperature.
Why do hotel beds feel so good? ›The bedsheets used on hotel beds accentuate the feelings of comfort and relaxation, so you feel completely at ease. They are not only soft, but also smell fantastic, thanks to special detergents, fabric softeners, cleaners, and other deodorizing agents that enhance the overall relaxation experience.
Is a 4 inch mattress topper too much? ›Is A 4-Inch Mattress Topper Too Much? For many sleepers, a 4-inch topper is right on target, especially if they are looking for extra support. Anyone who has problems with pressure on their joints, or wants a decent temporary mattress alternative, should feel satisfied with a 4-inch thick topper.
How long do mattress toppers last? ›The average lifespan of memory foam mattress toppers is only 3 to 5 years! Yes, you heard that right. And this is the case with high-quality memory toppers, while those made with cheap materials will only last for 2 years or less! But the longevity of any mattress topper for that matter will depend on various factors.
Do mattress toppers make bed more comfortable? ›A mattress topper is an additional layer of material, usually 1 to 4 inches thick, that rests on top of your mattress. This bedding accessory can help modify the firmness level of your sleep surface. Soft mattress toppers offer an extra layer of comfort to soften your current mattress.
What's the thickest mattress topper? ›Mattress topper thickness
The thickest mattress toppers, up to 7.5cm, are best for rejuvenating tired, old mattresses. Toppers of up to 5cm thick offer a good level of comfort and support. If your mattress is relatively new, a thinner topper of under 5 inches can give it a more luxurious feel.
Investing in a mattress topper is the most popular and immediate solution to make your firm mattress softer. Toppers sit on the surface of your mattress and can provide extra comfort for your mattress. A topper with a softer firmness rating will instantly make your mattress feel more comfortable.
How do I choose a memory foam topper? ›
Check for density when comparing memory foam toppers. Denser foams offer better durability, more consistent motion isolation, and deeper contouring without too much sink. Less dense foams, on the other hand, are usually more breathable and won't emit as much off-gassing odor.
Does a mattress topper go under the mattress pad? ›The mattress protector will need to encase the surface that your body is in direct contact with. This is to simply protect it the same way as if you were sleeping directly on the mattress. As such, your mattress protector will need to go over the top of the Mattress Topper.
Does a mattress topper go under the sheet? ›A mattress topper, or mattress enhancer, is a thick cushioned layer that covers the sleeping surface of the mattress and goes under the fitted sheet. They're usually made from memory foam or filled with down or down alternative.
Are memory foam toppers good for your back? ›Memory foam remains one of the most popular materials for mattress toppers. If you're a back or side sleeper with back pain, this material can help alleviate the pressure. Thanks to its slow-moving feel, you'll really sink into it. This creates comfy body contouring around the lower back, which helps soothe pain.
Do mattress toppers make you hot? ›Mattress pads and mattress toppers tend to get hot because they're made out of synthetic materials that respond to the pressure of our body, as well as temperature.
Can you put a mattress topper on memory foam? ›The short answer is yes. You can put a mattress topper on top of a memory foam mattress to adjust your sleeping environment to your liking.
How long do wool mattress toppers last? ›Wool is a very soft, fluffy, and highly durable material that has excellent temperature regulatory properties. However, they are not suitable for sleepers with specific needs like back support or pain relief, as they prove very less support. Wool mattress toppers generally perform for at least four years.
Are wool mattress toppers hot? ›Regulated Temperature
Wool has great insulating properties. Hence, a wool mattress topper can keep you warm during the winter and cool during the summer. Woolen fabric is also naturally airy and breathable. So, by investing in a woolen topper, you will ensure that your bed is comfortable and cozy throughout the year.
Back Pain Relief. Wool toppers mostly focus on pressure relief, which the thicker toppers will do very well. Those that are looking for back pain relief that is related to support may do best adjusting their mattress below or investing in a firmer mattress topper.
What kind of mattress do 5 star hotels use? ›Upscale hotels usually use luxury mattresses that are either hybrid , traditional innerspring , or memory foam mattresses. Hybrid mattresses are becoming particularly commonplace, as they strike the balance between supportive innerspring coals and body-cradling memory foam.
What firmness of mattress do most hotels use? ›
First, hotel beds are most commonly either hybrid or innerspring mattresses that fall around a medium on the firmness scale to suit most people. Additionally, most hotels turn to classic brands such as Sealy, Serta-Simmons, and Beautyrest.
How can I make my bed like a hotel? ›How to House: How to Make a Bed Like a Hotel | HGTV - YouTube
Are thicker mattress toppers better? ›A thicker topper provides more cushioning, so it is possible for the sleeper to sink lower into the topper, losing some of the support provided by the firm mattress. If you have back problems or require a very supportive mattress, a 2-inch topper or thinner is likely better for you than a 3-inch or 4-inch.
What density of memory foam mattress topper is best? ›Unsurprisingly, heavier mattress toppers provide more solid support to the sleeper. For instance, a topper with a density of 6 pounds per cubic feet and above is made with the highest quality memory foam gel and can support the body in its best form for in a long time.
How many inches of memory foam is best? ›High-quality memory foam mattresses 10 to 14-inch thick are good enough to provide body-conforming support. They are durable and can last around 10 to 15 years. Memory foam mattresses thinner than this may not be supportive or durable enough, developing soft spots and sags within three to four years.
How do you make a mattress topper fluffy again? ›How To Fluff Your Feather Bed - DOWNLITE - YouTube
Can you wash your mattress topper? ›In many cases, vinyl-backed mattress toppers are machine washable. For machine washing, you'll want to use warm or cold water and run it on a gentle cycle. Don't go for harsh detergent when washing your mattress topper in the washing machine. Instead, choose a mild detergent.
Do memory foam mattress toppers need to be replaced? ›To ensure that you're getting the very most out of your memory foam mattress topper, you should replace it every year. If your topper is a deep design or isn't used every night, it will last a little longer and you'll only need to think about replacing it every couple of years.
Can you put two mattress toppers on top of each other? ›Our Answer: We don't recommend putting multiple pads on a mattress. If your innerspring mattress is so hard that you don't think a 3″ memory foam mattress topper pad will do the trick, you really are better off buying a new mattress than getting 2 of our pads.
Which side of a mattress topper goes up? ›Turns out that the points on the egg crate are supposed to be pointed up. That is for two reasons. First, the little peaks and valleys on the egg crate foam are designed to allow air to flow through the mattress pad, keeping the person sleeping on it nice and cool.
Are microfibre mattress toppers good? ›
Microfibre is wonderfully soft and mimics the feel of down - it's also fully washable, helping keep allergens at bay. Memory foam and hollowfibre are similarly washable, which makes them a good choice. If you'd prefer a topper with natural credentials then choose wool.
How thick should a mattress topper be for a side sleeper? ›Toppers that are 1 to 2 inches thick are a good choice if you have a supportive mattress but want a little extra padding and comfort. Toppers with a profile of 3 inches or less are usually medium-firm or firmer. This is an optimal thickness for most side sleepers.
What do you do if your mattress topper is too big? ›Use a ruler, a marker pen, and a sharp knife to measure and mark where you want to cut. Cut the memory foam mattress or mattress topper carefully on a flat surface without compressing it. Trim off the excess and (re)fit the mattress cover.
How long do Boxsprings last? ›A high-quality box spring or foundation could last up to 10 years while a low-quality option could give out in less than five years. That's why it's important to prioritize craftsmanship when it comes to your mattress foundation.
Do mattress toppers make bed more comfortable? ›A mattress topper is an additional layer of material, usually 1 to 4 inches thick, that rests on top of your mattress. This bedding accessory can help modify the firmness level of your sleep surface. Soft mattress toppers offer an extra layer of comfort to soften your current mattress.
Whats the thickest mattress topper you can get? ›Mattress topper thickness
The thickest mattress toppers, up to 7.5cm, are best for rejuvenating tired, old mattresses. Toppers of up to 5cm thick offer a good level of comfort and support. If your mattress is relatively new, a thinner topper of under 5 inches can give it a more luxurious feel.
If you suffer from back or joint pain, particularly arthritis or fibromyalgia, then the added support provided by a memory foam mattress topper could significantly improve your comfort while you sleep.
Are foam toppers good? ›Memory-foam mattress toppers “are the most popular due to the fact that they add comfort and relieve pressure,” according to Nick Robinson, the editor and publisher of the sleep-product review site Sleep Like the Dead. Robinson recommends this model with its three inches of plush memory foam.