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If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. Here’s our process. A mattress topper can provide extra comfort and support. It can be a budget-friendly alternative to investing in a new mattress. Share on PinterestDesign by Holly Ravazzolo Quick linksBest mattress topper for comfort: Nest Bedding Alexander Signature Cooling TopperBest organic latex mattress topper: Avocado Green Organic Latex Mattress TopperBest cooling mattress topper: Therapedic Polar Nights 10x Cooling Ice Cube Mattress TopperBest mattress topper for pressure relief: Molecule AirTEC Mattress TopperBest mattress topper for spinal alignment: Linenspa 2 Inch 5 Zone Gel Memory Foam TopperBest mattress topper for back pain: Saatva Graphite Mattress TopperBest hypoallergenic mattress topper: TEMPUR-Pedic TEMPUR-Topper SupremeBest machine-washable mattress topper: SOPAT Extra Thick Mattress TopperBest firm mattress topper: Airweave Top Mattress TopperBest mattress topper couples: Sleep Number DualTemp Individual Layer Mattress Topper Benefits of mattress toppersThere 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 noseheadachesdamage to the liver, kidneys, and central nervous systemcancer Some mattress toppers may also contain harmful flame retardants. These may cause cancer, damage the immune and reproductive systems, and disrupt endocrine and neurological function. 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. Nest Bedding Alexander Signature Cooling Topper Best mattress topper for comfort The Nest Bedding Alexander Signature Cooling Topper is a cooling foam topper. Features include:2-inches (in) highcooling fabric, as found in the Alexander mattressesallows airflowadds comfort to the mattressstraps at each corner to secure the topper to the mattresssix sizes, from twin to California kingSHOP NOW Avocado Green Organic Latex Mattress Topper Best organic latex mattress topper 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. Features include:2 in of Global Organic Latex Standard organic latexGlobal Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) and OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified wool to regulate temperatureGOTS certified cottonbody contouringnontoxic materialsGREENGUARD Gold certifiedsizes from twin to California kingSHOP NOW Therapedic Polar Nights 10x Cooling Ice Cube Mattress Topper Best cooling mattress topper For people looking for cooler sleep, the Therapedic Polar Nights 10x Cooling Ice Cube Mattress Topper may help. Features include:cooling technology to draw heat away from the bodycooling activated in 8 seconds by body pressurememory foam with gel fibermade from polyester, polyurethane, and cottonsizes from twin to California king2-in deepspot clean onlySHOP NOW Molecule AirTEC Mattress Topper Best mattress topper for pressure relief The Molecule AirTEC Mattress Topper is a cooling, supportive foam topper that aims to provide better sleep and recovery. Features include:cooling fibers to regulate temperaturespinal alignment supportpressure point relief around the head, shoulders, and hipsbetter airflow than traditional memory foamCertiPUR-US certified foamsix sizes, from twin to California kingSHOP NOW Linenspa 2 Inch 5 Zone Gel Memory Foam Topper Best mattress topper for spinal alignment Multiple review websites rate the Linenspa 2 Inch 5 Zone Gel Memory Foam Topper as the best value mattress topper. Features include:gel-infused memory foam to regulate temperaturefive comfort zones to relieve pressure in different areas of the bodybody contouring and spinal alignment supportCertiPUR-US certified polyurethane foam2-in deepsizes from twin to California kingSHOP NOW Saatva Graphite Mattress Topper Best mattress topper for back pain 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 bodybody contouring and pressure relief3-in deephigh density foam to reduce motion transferbands at each corner to secure the topper to the mattresssizes from twin to California kingSHOP NOW TEMPUR-Pedic TEMPUR-Topper Supreme Best hypoallergenic mattress topper The TEMPUR-Pedic TEMPUR-Topper Supreme is a 3-in foam topper that may provide extra support. Features include:responds to each individual’s body weight, shape, and temperatureresistant to allergens, dust mites, and moldremovable and washable coverbreathable, durable memory foamsizes from twin to California kingSHOP NOW SOPAT Extra Thick Mattress Topper Best machine-washable mattress topper The SOPAT Extra Thick Mattress Topper may be a good option for those looking for a topper that is machine washable. Features include:100% cotton cover and microfiber fillerbreathable and coolingsides that stretch to fit a mattress up to 21-in thickmachine washableavailable in six sizes from twin to California kingSHOP NOW Airweave Top Mattress Topper Best firm mattress topper The Airweave Top Mattress Topper is a firm, washable mattress topper. It is a more expensive option and may suit people looking to invest in a topper. Features include:improves spinal alignment to reduce painprovides a cooler sleepavailable in six sizes100% washablemade from polyethylene, polyester, and cottonSHOP NOW Sleep Number DualTemp Individual Layer Mattress Topper Best mattress topper couples 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%air technology for airflowsuitable for either side of the bedtimer allowing temperature changes to automatically cut off at a set timeavailable in three sizes: half-queen, half-king, and half-California kingspot clean onlySHOP NOW 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 The following are some common questions about mattress toppers: 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. 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. Last medically reviewed on May 3, 2022UncategorizedSleep / Sleep Disorders / Insomnia 6 sourcescollapsedMedical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and draws only from peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. We avoid using tertiary references. We link primary sources — including studies, scientific references, and statistics — within each article and also list them in the resources section at the bottom of our articles. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.Flame retardants. (2021).https://www.niehs.nih.gov/health/topics/agents/flame_retardants/index.cfmMattresses. (n.d.).https://www.ewg.org/healthyhomeguide/mattressesResponsible Down Standard (RDS). (n.d.).https://textileexchange.org/standards/responsible-downSullivan, H. (2017). What is certified foam?https://certipur.us/what-is-certified-foamVolatile organic compounds' impact on indoor air quality. (n.d.).https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/volatile-organic-compounds-impact-indoor-air-qualityYour mattress deserves a hug. (2017).https://bettersleep.org/mattress-education/mattress-accessories/mattress-pads-protectors-encasements-toppersFEEDBACK:Medically reviewed by Debra Sullivan, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., CNE, COI — By Beth Sissons — Updated on May 3, 2022 Latest newsWhat sets 'SuperAgers' apart? Their unusually large neuronsOmega-3 may provide a brain boost for people in midlifeSeasonal affective disorder (SAD): How to beat it this fall and winterCDC: Monkeypox in the US 'unlikely to be eliminated in the near future'Why are more women prone to Alzheimer's? New clues arise Related CoverageSome of the best mattress toppers for back painMedically reviewed by Gregory Minnis, DPT People who experience back pain may benefit from using mattress toppers that aim to help relieve pressure. 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