A mattress topper can provide extra comfort and support. It can be a budget-friendly alternative to investing in a new mattress.
A quick look at 11 of the best mattress toppers
- Best for comfort: Nest Bedding Alexander Signature Cooling Topper
- Best organic latex: Avocado Green Organic Latex Mattress Topper
- Best for pressure relief: Molecule Triple Zone Pro Topper
- Best affordable: Linenspa 2 Inch 5 Zone Gel Memory Foam Topper
- Best for back pain: Saatva Graphite Mattress Topper
- Best hypoallergenic: TEMPUR-Pedic TEMPUR-Adapt Topper
- Best for couples: Sleep Number DualTemp Individual Layer Mattress Topper
- Best waterproof: GhostBed Memory Foam Topper
- Best for temperature regulation: Slumber Cloud Core Mattress Pad
- Best for different firmness options: PlushBeds 100% Natural Latex Mattress Topper
- Best plush: Birch Living Plush Mattress Topper
How we chose
Medical News Today’s methodology
MNT chooses mattresses, sheets, pillows, and other bedding that meet the following criteria:
- Certifications: MNT will choose products that have CertiPUR-US or other certifications. This means that the products are low in pollutants and free from heavy metals and volatile organic compounds.
- Size: MNT chooses products that are available in various sizes.
- Materials and fill: MNT selects products made from different materials and fills, such as memory foam and latex, to suit a range of sleep and lifestyles.
- Budget: MNT features products that are available in a wide range of budgets.
- Firmness: MNT selects mattresses that are available in a range of firmness options to suit most people’s sleeping styles.
- Sleep trials: MNT chooses companies that offer a sleep trial.
- Shipping: MNT will include shipping information, such as where the company delivers to and whether shipping is free.
- Warranties and return policies: MNT will include products that carry warranties and clear returns policies.
Top mattress toppers
Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based and correct at the time of publication.
Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more here.
Best for comfort:
Nest Bedding Alexander Signature Cooling Topper
- Price: from $219
- Height: 2 inches (in)
- Material: Energex Temperature Responsive Foam
- Firmness: medium-soft
The Nest Bedding Alexander Signature Cooling Topper is a cooling foam topper. It is available in twin to California king sizes.
This mattress topper features CertiPUR-US certified temperature responsive foam, which is the same material that is in the company’s Alexander mattresses. This topper reportedly increases airflow and comfort.
This product has straps at each corner which secures the topper to the mattress.
Nest Bedding offers free shipping to the contiguous United States and a 30-night trial.
Best organic latex:
Avocado Green Organic Latex Mattress Topper
- Price: from $549
- Height: 2.75 in
- Material: organic latex, wool, and cotton
- Firmness: plush and firm
The Avocado Green Organic Latex Mattress Topper is made from organic latex. People can choose between a plush or firm topper to make a mattress feel softer or firmer, respectively.
This topper has Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) and OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified wool to regulate temperature. The GOTs certified cotton cover can also help reduce overheating during sleep.
However, as this product contains latex, it is not suitable for people with a latex allergy.
The company states that this topper contours to the body, helping relieve aches and pains. It is available in sizes from twin to California king.
Avocado Green offers a 1-year trial and a 10-year warranty.
Best for pressure relief:
Molecule Triple Zone Pro Topper
- Price: from $179.99
- Height: 3 in
- Material: polyurethane foam
- Firmness: medium-firm
The Molecule Triple Zone ProTopper is a cooling, supportive foam topper that aims to provide better sleep and recovery. It is available in six sizes, from twin to California king.
Features include pressure point relief around the head, shoulders, and hips, spinal alignment support, and cooling fibers that help regulate temperature.
Additionally, this product has a MOLECULEshield treatment that helps protect against bacteria, mold, odors, and other wear and tear.
Molecule offers a 5-year limited warranty. The foam is CertiPUR-US certified.
Best affordable:
Linenspa 2 Inch 5 Zone Gel Memory Foam Topper
- Price: from around $40
- Height: 2 in or 3 in
- Material: gel-infused memory foam
- Firmness: plush
The Linenspa 2 Inch 5 Zone Gel Memory Foam Topper may be one of the best value mattress toppers available, as it is less expensive than many other options.
Features include gel-infused memory foam that can help regulate body temperature, five comfort zones to relieve pressure in different areas of the body, and body contouring and spinal alignment support.
The gel-infused memory foam is CertiPUR-US certified. This topper is available in two different heights: 2 in and 3 in. It is available in sizes from twin to California king.
Best for back pain:
Saatva Graphite Mattress Topper
- Price: from $325
- Height: 3 in
- Material: graphite
- Firmness: medium-firm
According to review sites, the Saatva Graphite Mattress Topper may be best for people with back pain.
Features include graphite-infused memory foam, which draws heat away from the body, contouring and pressure relief, and high-density foam that reduces motion transfer.
This topper has bands at each corner to secure the topper to the mattress. It is available in sizes twin to California king.
Saatva offers a 180-day returns policy.
Best hypoallergenic:
TEMPUR-Pedic TEMPUR-Adapt Topper
- Price: from $319
- Height: 3 in
- Material: TEMPUR foam material
- Firmness: medium-soft
The TEMPUR-Pedic TEMPUR-Adapt Topper is a 3-in foam topper that providers a plusher feel to firmer mattresses.
It reportedly responds to a person’s body weight, shape, and temperature, and is resistant to allergens, dust mites, and mold.
It had a removable and washable cover, and breathable, durable proprietary foam. The topper is available in sizes from twin to California king.
TEMPUR-Pedic offers a 10-year warranty on this product.
Best for couples:
Sleep Number DualTemp Individual Layer Mattress Topper
- Price: from $999.99
- Height: no information
- Material: no information
- Firmness: no information
The Sleep Number DualTemp Individual Layer Mattress Topper covers half the bed, so it is suitable for couples who have different sleeping preferences.
Features include: control settings to either increase or lower temperature by up to 35%, a timer allowing temperature changes to automatically cut off at a set time, and air technology to increase airlfow.
This topper is only available in three sizes: half-queen, half-king, and half-California king.
Sleep Number offers a 1-year limited warranty.
Best waterproof:
GhostBed Memory Foam Topper
- Price: from $335
- Height: 3 in
- Material: gel memory foam
- Firmness: medium-firm
The Ghostbed Memory Foam Topper has a cooling and waterproof cover, which may benefit those who become hot and sweat when sleeping.
Features of this topper include multizone pressure points for the head, shoulders, torso, and limbs, and raised zones that promote airflow.
This product has elastic bands to hold the topper in place and a deep pocket cover that fits most mattress depths.
The topper contains CertiPUR-US certified foam. It is available in six sizes from twin to California king.
GhostBed offers a 5-year warranty.
Best for temperature regulation:
Slumber Cloud Core Mattress Pad
- Price: from $179
- Height: 3 in
- Material: Outlast material
- Firmness: plush
The Slumber Cloud Core Mattress Pad has Outlast technology to absorb heat when a person is too hot and releases it back when they are cold. It may be most suitable for people who become too hot and too cold during sleep.
Slumber Cloud states that this topper may also be an option for couples. The Outlast technology in this product reportedly actively regulates temperature rather than reacting to it, which means that couples who require different temperatures to sleep may find that the topper provides different temperatures for each side.
This topper is available in seven sizes, from twin to split-king.
The compant offers a 60-night trial.
Best for different firmness options:
PlushBeds 100% Natural Latex Mattress Topper
- Price: from $288
- Height: 2 in or 3 in
- Material: latex
- Firmness: five options from soft to extra-firm
PlushBeds 100% Natural Latex Mattress Topper is available in five firmness options, from soft to extra-firm. This topper may be a good option for people who prefer firmnesses that are more difficult to find.
Other features include thicknesses of 2 in or 3 in, pressure point relief for the shoulders, hips, back, and knees, and an open-cell airflow design to promote breathability.
People can choose to add a GOTs, OEKO-TEX Standard 100, and GREENGUARD Gold-certified organic cotton cover for an additional fee.
As this topper contains latex, it is not suitable for people with a latex allergy.
PlushBeds offers a 5-year warranty.
Best plush:
Birch Living Plush Mattress Topper
- Price: from $325
- Height: 2 in
- Material: latex and organic cotton and wool
- Firmness: plush
This topper is a plush pillow top, which may offer softer comfort. It also contains organic GOTS and GREENGUARD Gold-certified materials, making is suitable for those who prefer using organic products.
Other features include soft latex that provides deep body contouring, dust mite repellance, and a highly breathable cotton layer.
Birch Living states that the wool layer in the topper is a natural fire retardant. It may also provide extra comfort for side and back sleepers.
However, as this topper contains latex, it is not suitable for people with a latex allergy.
Birch Living offers a 100-night sleep trial and a 10-year warranty.
Mattress topper comparison
The following table compares the mattress toppers in this article on price, firmness, height, and more.
| Price | Height | Material | Firmness | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nest Bedding | from $219 | 2 in | Energex Temperature Responsive Foam | medium-soft |
| Avocado Green | from $549 | 2.75 in | • organic latex • organic wool • organic cotton | • plush • firm |
| Molecule | from $179.99 | 3 in | polyurethane foam | medium-firm |
| Linenspa | from around $40 | • 2 in • 3 in | gel-infused memory foam | plush |
| Saatva | from $325 | 3 in | graphite | medium-firm |
| TEMPUR-Pedic | from $319 | 3 in | TEMPUR foam material | medium-soft |
| Sleep Number | from $999.99 | no information | no information | no information |
| GhostBed | from $335 | 3 in | gel memory foam | medium-firm |
| Slumber Cloud | from $179 | 3 in | Outlast material | plush |
| PlushBeds | from $288 | • 2 in • 3 in | latex | • soft • medium-soft • medium • medium-firm • extra-firm |
| Birch Living | from $325 | 2 in | • latex • organic cotton • organic wool | plush |
Benefits of mattress toppers
There are several benefits to buying and using a mattress topper. The following sections look at these in more detail.
More affordable than a new mattress
Purchasing a mattress topper can be easier and more affordable than investing in a new mattress for changing the feel of a mattress.
Added firmness or cushioning
A topper can be a good way to add extra firmness or cushioning to a mattress that feels too hard or too soft.
A mattress that feels too soft may not properly support the spine, causing muscle tension and back pain. On the other hand, a mattress that feels too firm may cause excess pressure on heavier parts of the body, such as the hips.
Good for two sleepers with different needs
People may want to use a mattress topper on only one half of the bed if individuals in a couple have different sleeping styles. For example, one person may like a firm mattress, while the other may prefer a medium-firm one.
Mattress toppers are also easy to transport, so they may be a good option for people sleeping away from home, traveling, or frequently moving.
Things to consider when buying a mattress topper
Some factors to consider before purchasing a mattress topper include the following:
- Price: The cost of a mattress topper will depend on the materials and any extra features a person wants. People may wish to purchase according to their budget.
- Comfort: Mattress toppers can add extra comfort to a mattress, especially if the mattress is older and losing its shape.
- Extra features: Some mattress toppers offer additional features, such as cooling abilities. These products may benefit those who overheat in their sleep, as they may help regulate body temperature.
- Support and pressure relief: Some mattress toppers may offer extra spinal alignment support and pressure point relief. These features may reduce aches and pains and lead to more restful sleep.
- Nontoxic materials: People may want to look for the CertiPUR-US certification in foam toppers. This certification ensures low volatile organic compound (VOC) levels and restricts the use of certain harmful flame retardants, ozone-depleting chemicals, and heavy metals.
- Hypoallergenic mattress toppers: Toppers that are hypoallergenic and dust mite resistant and have a removable, washable cover may be best for longevity and people with allergies. If a person does not have an allergy to latex, natural latex can be a good option for a topper that is durable and resistant to mold and dust mites.
Firmness
Mattress toppers are available in different firmness feels. Thinner mattress toppers usually feel firmer than thicker toppers.
Firm mattress toppers may suit back and stomach sleepers, as they will prevent the spine from sinking. Medium-firm mattress toppers may suit side and combination sleepers, as they support spinal alignment in various positions. Soft or plush mattress toppers may suit people seeking pressure relief.
Sleeping styles
Some mattress toppers may best suit different sleeping styles.
According to mattress websites, a softer surface may better suit side sleepers, while a firmer surface may better suit back and stomach sleepers.
Materials
Mattress toppers are available in a range of materials, such as latex, memory foam, polyester, polyurethane, and cotton.
A person should make sure that they choose a mattress topper made from safe materials. Some mattress toppers may contain toxic chemicals that can be harmful to health.
Polyurethane foam, such as memory foam, may emit VOCs. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), VOCs may have harmful effects on health, including:
- irritation of the throat, eyes, and nose
- headaches
- damage to the liver, kidneys, and central nervous system
- cancer
Some mattress toppers may also contain harmful flame retardants. These
Alternatives
A mattress pad may be a good alternative to a mattress topper. These are not as thick as mattress toppers and can be less expensive. They can also add extra protection to the mattress.
If purchasing a down mattress pad, people may want to check for the Responsible Down Standard, which ensures humane treatment of the animals providing the down.
If people are looking to simply protect their mattress, a mattress protector may be a cheaper, more effective option, though it will not usually change the feel of a mattress.
Some people may find that mattress toppers do not remedy severe sagging in their mattress. If a person is experiencing this, they may need to invest in a new mattress.
Frequently asked questions about mattress toppers
The following are some common questions about these products.
Does a mattress protector go on top of a mattress topper?
Mattress protectors are an item of bedding that sits on top of or fits over a mattress. These products can protect against allergens such as dust mites.
Mattress protectors usually go on top of a mattress topper. A mattress topper adds extra comfort or support but may not protect against allergens.
How thick should a mattress topper be?
Mattress toppers vary in thickness. Thinner mattress toppers may be more suitable for newer mattresses, whereas thicker toppers may offer extra support and comfort for people who sleep on mattresses that are losing their shape and support.
How should I fit a mattress topper?
Mattress toppers usually have either four elasticated loops on each corner or an elasticated skirt. People can attach the mattress topper to the bed by looping it onto the mattress or enclosing the mattress with the skirt.
If a person fits the mattress topper correctly, it should not bunch up or move during sleep.
What is the best mattress topper on the market today?
The best mattress topper available is subject to personal preference.
People should consider firmness, size, cooling properties, and materials when choosing a new topper. For example, people with a latex allergy should avoid latex toppers, and people who are vegan or prefer not to use animal byproducts will likely avoid toppers that contain wool.
What mattress topper do chiropractors recommend?
Chiropractors will take into account a person’s sleeping position, health concerns, and whether they sleep cool or hot when recommending a mattress topper.
Chiropractors may recommend a memory foam topper with cooling properties if a person sleeps hot and requires deep pressure relief.
Which mattress topper is best for pressure points?
A memory foam mattress topper generally provides body contouring and helps relieve pressure points. However, individual results may vary, and people may wish to try out several toppers before committing to a purchase.
Summary
Buying a mattress topper can be an easy and more affordable way of changing the feel of a mattress without investing in a new one.
A mattress topper can add more cushioning to a firm mattress or greater support to a softer mattress.
Many mattress toppers come with a sleep trial, so people can try a topper for a certain period of time before making a purchase.
Sources
- Flame retardants. (2021).
https://www.niehs.nih.gov/health/topics/agents/flame_retardants/index.cfm - Mattresses. (n.d.). https://www.ewg.org/healthyhomeguide/mattresses
- Responsible Down Standard (RDS). (n.d.). https://textileexchange.org/standards/responsible-down