Mattress toppers are excellent accessories for your mattress and can add more firmness, softness or comfort. Purchasing is also a mattress topper is a great option to revitalise an old mattress at an affordable price.
Whatever your reason is for looking into buying a mattress topper, we recommend having a look at a few things that include materials, height and densities. This, of course, depends on what exactly you are looking for to revive your mattress. We have here our top picks when it comes to buying a mattress topper here in the UK.
(Important Facts, Studies, Advice, Considerations & FAQs In Conclusion)
| TOPPER | TYPE | DEPTH | TRIAL & WARRANTY | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Simba Hybrid Mattress Topper | Hybrid | 7 cm | 14 Nights 1 Year | £219 |
| Panda The Topper | Memory foam | 5 cm | 30 Nights 10 Years | £99.95 |
| Eve The Mattress Topper | Open-cell foam | 5 cm | 30 Nights 2 Years | £199 |
| Silentnight Airmax 600 Mattress Topper | Hollow-fibre | 8 cm | NA Nights 2 Years | £42 |
| Tempur Deluxe Mattress Topper | TEMPUR® foam | 7 cm | 100 Nights 10 Years | £695 |
| John Lewis Dual Layer Mattress Topper | Polyester | 6 cm | NA Nights 2 Years | £75 |
1. Simba Hybrid Mattress Topper
| HIGHLIGHTS | SUITABILITY |
|---|---|
| • Simba-Pure layer • 2500 aerocoil spring layer • 3D mesh fabric | • Those seeking breathability • Sleepers looking for added comfort • People who enjoy British products |
Simba is a UK based company devoted to sleep innovation and new sleep technologies. Using factories in the UK and EU, Simba has created the Simba Hybrid® topper. The topper uses Simba’s open-cell foam and springs to create a hybrid design.
The Simba Hybrid topper comprises 4 different layers wrapped in a cover, which is a 3D mesh fabric that encases the layers. Starting from the bottom, we have a zoned Simba-Pure base that acts as a foundation. The next layer is the 2500 aerocoil spring layer. Simba’s springs can adapt to your body, allowing you to move about while remaining supported from every angle. This layer also allows the springs to move and respond individually.
Following this is the cooling open-cell Simba-Pure layer. This layer is designed to allow for airflow, keeping you cool through the night. The final layer is the breathable sleep surface which allows for added airflow and helps move body heat away. The Simba Hybrid topper also includes straps that help keep it sturdy as you sleep.
The Simba Hybrid topper comes with a 14 night trial period, where you can test the topper in your home and return it for a refund if it’s not for you. The topper also includes a 1-year guarantee.
2. Panda Mattress Topper
| HIGHLIGHTS | SUITABILITY |
|---|---|
| • Hydro-foam layer • Bamboo cover • Oeko-Tex certified | • Eco-friendly individuals • Those with sensitive skin • Hot sleepers |
Panda is a company that is known for its bamboo mattress topper. Bamboo is a sustainable resource and one of the worlds fastest and densely growing plants. Panda ensures that all materials are Oeko-Tex certified, which means that their products do not contain harmful chemicals.
The Panda topper is made from a 3rd generation memory foam and a bamboo cover. The 3rd generation memory foam, known as Hydro-Foam, is orthopedically approved and helps reduce body heat and help the mattress feel softer. The foam layer gently conforms to the shape of your body and the natural hollows in your neck and shoulders. Additionally, the foam layer has infused capsules of cooling gel to prevent overheating while you sleep.
Bamboo is naturally antibacterial, which protects the skin from irritations and allergies. The Bamboo cover is also highly breathable and encourages airflow. The Panda mattress topper includes elastic straps on each corner alongside a silicone dot anti-slip layer. Both of these ensure that the mattress topper stays in place and restricts topper movement or shifting. The outer cover is easily removed and can be washed.
The Panda mattress topper comes with free delivery and returns within the UK. Also included is a 30-night trial, where you’re free to test the Topper and return it for a refund if it’s not for you. Lastly, the Topper has a 10-year guarantee to help protect your mattress over time.
3. Eve Mattress Topper
| HIGHLIGHTS | SUITABILITY |
|---|---|
| • Evecomfort® layer • Reflex base foam • CertiPur certified | • Those seeking pressure relief • Individuals with allergies • People who prefer a washable cover |
Eve is a leading brand in the mattress industry, with its mattress topper being designed and manufactured at Eve’s UK based factory. Eve’s topper foam materials are CertiPur® certified, and the cover is Oeko-Tex® certified. These certifications mean that the mattress topper was made in line with UK regulations with no harmful chemicals.
The Eve mattress topper is made from 2 layers and a cover. The base foam layer is made from 3cm reflex base foam, which provides support and comfort. The Evecomfort® layer is made from 2cm open-cell foam, which they claim is 30 times more breathable than regular foams. The foam used in the Eve mattress topper helps dissipate body heat and wick away moisture, keeping you clean and cool.
The knitted cover of the Eve mattress topper is made from soft polyester and is hypoallergenic. The cover has two parts, made from 100% polypropylene and 100% polyester. Included in the cover are sturdy straps which prevent the topper from slipping or sliding. Additionally, the top panel of the cover can be washed at 40 degrees Celcius.
Included in your purchase is a 30-night free trial, where you can test the topper in your home. If you aren't satisfied with the topper, Eve will collect and refund your purchase. Also included in your purchase is a 3-year warranty.
4. Silentnight Airmax 600 Mattress Topper
| HIGHLIGHTS | SUITABILITY |
|---|---|
| • Dual-layer design • Hypoallergenic • Air mesh walls | • Those on a budget • Sleepers seeking added airflow • People looking for a soft surface |
The Silentnight Airmax mattress topper is brought to you by Bedding Limited, a Manchester-based sleep company. The Airmax topper is a dual-layer design, with air mesh walls that help circulate air and keep you cool.
The dual-layer is designed to offer increased airflow and help you keep cool throughout the year and seasons. The deep air mesh walls allow for added breathability and comfort. The Silentnight Airmax mattress topper is hypoallergenic, meaning that the materials are unlikely to cause allergies or skin reactions. Also included with your topper are 4 straps, with 1 on each corner. This means your topper can sit securely on your mattress. The Airmax topper is machine washable at 40 degrees Celcius, allowing you to have a fresh and clean sleeping surface regularly.
The Airmax Topper also includes a 2-year manufacturers guarantee, ensuring the quality of your topper for a minimum of a couple of years.
5. Tempur Mattress Deluxe Topper
| HIGHLIGHTS | SUITABILITY |
|---|---|
| • 7cm deep • Tempur foam • 100-night trial | • People with a bigger budget • Those seeking durability • Sleepers looking for pressure relief |
Tempur is a company focused on luxurious comfort. Their Tempur material is used in their pillows and mattresses and is now in their Tempur Deluxe topper. Tempur is a pressure-relieving material, and the mattress topper is designed to give luxurious Tempur comfort.
The Tempur Deluxe mattress topper is made from Tempur materials. These contain visco-elastic cells that actively mould and adapt to your body, giving you support and comfort. The Tempur topper has a soft jersey cover, which creates a luxuriously soft sleeping surface and is washable at 60 degrees celsius. The Tempur topper sits at 7cm deep.
The Tempur Deluxe Topper comes with a 10-year guarantee, ensuring that your topper will last for at least a decade. Also available when you buy a Tempur mattress topper is a zero-rated VAT purchase and a 100-night trial. The Tempur Deluxe topper is delivered to your door free of charge within the mainland UK.
6. John Lewis Mattress Topper
| HIGHLIGHTS | SUITABILITY |
|---|---|
| • Dual-layer construction • Zipped layers • 2-year warranty | • Mattresses up to 32cm deep • Those looking for extra support • Sleepers seeking extra comfort |
The dual-layer topper from John Lewis & Partners is a synthetic, soft to touch deep mattress topper, capable of sitting on a bed of up to 32 cm deep. The dual topper uses polyester in its construction and contains a zip that separates the top washable layer from the lower support and comfort layer.
The Dual-layer mattress topper from John Lewis & Partners comprises 2 polyester layers, one being for comfort and one being for support. The base layer helps provide support whilst the top layer offers extra comfort. Both layers are made from 100% polyester. Polyester is a common material in mattresses as it can be strong, flexible and dries quickly.
The two layers are separated by zip, with the top layer being easily removed and can be washed at 40 degrees Celcius. Also included with the mattress topper are straps to hold firmly onto your mattress, this helps alleviate movement and shifting while keeping the topper in place.
The dual-layer topper comes with free standard delivery within the UK, which takes up to 5 working days to arrive. The Dual-layer mattress topper also has a 2-year guarantee, which means it will last at least a couple of years.
Best Mattress Topper Materials
There are many different mattress toppers currently on the UK market; sometimes, the number of options can get overwhelming, especially if you’re met with unfamiliar information regarding the mattress topper type and materials. To help, here is a list of the most common mattress topper types and their pros and cons.
- Foam: This is one of the most popular mattress topper types as memory foam can mould a person’s body shape. Memory foam is also known to have a cushioning feel that can help with pressure relief. Research✓ has shown that foam overlays can help with pressure injuries. Despite this, memory foam toppers tend to sleep hotter than other materials and may not be ideal for heavier people as it can be prone to sagging under pressure.
- Gel: Mattress toppers categorised as gel toppers are often made from gel-infused foam. As foam is known for being heat retentive, the gel can be added, often as gel beads. The inclusion of gel should help cool down the topper and allow for more airflow. This can be a good solution for those seeking the comfort of foam but require a cooler surface.
- Latex: In its natural form, latex is an organic material derived from the sap of rubber trees. Latex toppers are known to have a comfortable and durable feel with elements of elasticity. Studies✓ have also shown that latex may be more effective at reducing body pressure than foam. The downside to latex toppers is that they tend to be more expensive than other materials.
- Hybrid: While hybrid mattresses are common, the design is less typical in toppers. Hybrid mattress toppers have a combination of foam and springs, which means they can offer a more firm and springy feel. The inclusion of springs can also provide increased breathability and airflow. Despite this, the firmness of the springs could mean the topper doesn’t offer as much cushion as other materials.
- Wool: This soft material is often renewable and biodegradable, so it is a good option for those who prioritise sustainability. It can also be environmentally friendly, depending on the type of wool. In addition, wool toppers are known to have good temperature regulating properties, with research✓ finding that merino wool is particularly good at transporting sweat away from the skin.
- Bamboo: A bamboo mattress topper is typically a topper with a bamboo cover or bamboo-infused foam. Bamboo toppers are largely eco-friendly and hypoallergenic. The material is also known to have temperature regulating properties, with a study✓ finding it also makes for great summer clothing due to it’s low thermal conductivity.
Did you know?
Research✓ into mattress toppers found that high rebound mattress toppers were more successful than low rebound toppers at helping to reduce body temperature and encourage deeper sleep.
Mattress Topper Price Ranges
Purchasing a mattress topper can often be an affordable way to change the surface feel without investing in a whole new mattress. There are many cheap mattress toppers for those on a budget; however, higher-end toppers are also for people willing to splash out. Price ranges can depend on factors such as brand, materials and extra features.
Cheap mattress toppers are typically below 50 for a single size, while more expensive mattress toppers can sell from 100 to 600. When comparing recommended mattress toppers in different materials, bamboo and gel toppers tend to have a lower price point. Latex, memory foam, and wool mattress toppers can often be more expensive; yet, this can often depend on the brand.
That being said, the price tag may not always reflect the quality of the product. Research✓ has shown that people can be more drawn to an expensive item even when the quality is the same as a lower-priced product. For this reason, reading reviews and testing the product yourself is recommended.
The Best Mattress Topper For You
When buying a mattress topper, it’s important to consider your personal needs to ensure the product is the right fit for you. Many mattress toppers will include specific materials and features that can appeal to different preferences, so it’s useful to identify which features can suit you.
- Couples: Those who share a bed with a partner may prefer memory foam as the density can help to reduce motion transfer and noise disturbance. A BBC article noted that couples suffered 50% more sleep disturbance due to bed-sharing. You could also purchase a single mattress topper if you and your partner have different preferences.
- Heavy People: For those with a heavier weight, it’s worth getting a more durable mattress topper to prevent sagging. Latex is known for being durable while maintaining the comfort levels of foam. A thicker mattress topper could also help to prevent sinkage and create a substantial barrier between the sleeper and mattress.
- Eco-Conscious: If you’re environmentally conscious, wool, latex and bamboo toppers could be a good option. Natural latex and bamboo are often organic as they derive from natural sources, such as trees. Wool is also sustainable and biodegradable, although some types of wool could be avoided due to unethical practices.
- Allergy Sufferers: For people with sensitive skin or allergies, it’s worth checking that the topper is hypoallergenic. Many natural materials, such as latex, bamboo and wool are known to have hypoallergenic properties. You can also check for certifications, such as Oeko-Tex, which means it’s free from harmful chemicals.
- Hot Sleepers: People who tend to sleep hot could try a bamboo or latex mattress topper, which are both known to have cooling properties. If you enjoy foam but also prefer a cooling mattress topper, you can also find gel-infused or open-cell memory foam, as they can offer increased airflow. Merino wool is also known for having moisture-wicking abilities, which could be suitable for those who suffer night sweats✓.
- Back Pain Sufferers: Research has found that approximately 1 in 6 adults in England suffers from back pain. To help ease back pain, it’s important to try to maintain correct spinal alignment and find a topper that can offer pressure relief. Studies✓ have found that a medium-firm feel is likely to be the best option for those suffering lower back pain.
Sleeping Positions
As well as considering your personal preferences, you can also take your sleeping position into account. Some mattress toppers may be better suited for different sleeping positions, so before purchasing, it’s something to consider.
- Side sleepers: A study✓ involving 664 adults found that 54.1% slept in the side position. Due to this, foam mattress toppers can be popular for side sleepers as they can offer cushioning around the knees, hips and shoulders. Furthermore, research✓ has found links between side sleeping and shoulder pain, therefore a comfortable foam topper can provide that cushioning which may help relieve some pressure. Latex and wool toppers are also known for having a comfortable and soft feel.
- Stomach Sleepers: For those who sleep on your front, you may require a firmer surface to prevent the stomach and hips from sinking; something that could present problems with spinal alignment. Gel-infused foam can be firmer than traditional memory foam, and there are also many firmer latex toppers available. It’s worth noting that stomach sleeping may extend the neck backwards and could lead to spinal compression.
- Back Sleepers: For back sleepers, it’s advised to avoid a mattress topper that is too firm as it can push the hips upwards in an unnatural position. Soft mattress toppers can also cause the back to sink, which isn’t helpful for spinal alignment. A medium-firm topper could help to keep the back in healthy alignment. Research✓ also shows that back sleeping is also known to be the best position for infants.
Good to know!
A small study✓ involving 40 male side sleepers found that a soft mattress topper of 30mm thickness was the most effective at reducing body pressure and maintaining spinal alignment.
Best Mattress Toppers: Trial And Warranty
In recent times, data has shown a dramatic incline in internet sales since 2006. With the practicality and convenience of online shopping, many people rely on trial periods and warranties to give them some reassurance before purchasing.
When it comes to mattress toppers, the warranty and trial times can often be shorter when compared to mattresses. For example, if you’re purchasing on Amazon, there is often a limited or no trial time indicated. If you decide to buy from an established brand on their own website, you may be more likely to find a guaranteed trial and warranty time. Although, you should always try to check the terms and conditions before purchasing.
If there is a free trial period available, they can typically range from 2 weeks to 30 days. It often takes around 1 month to become adjusted to a new surface. Warranty periods are often more common than the trial periods and can range from 1 year to 10 years.
Best Mattress Topper Certifications
Many mattress toppers include certifications to prove that they meet the safety and health regulations in the UK. They can also tell you what types of materials are used and can be especially helpful for those with health concerns. Here are the most common certifications to look out for.
- CertiPur-US: This certification means the topper was made without heavy metals, flame retardants and ozone depleters. It can also mean the foam used is has low VOC’s (volatile organic compounds).
- OEKO-TEX®: With this label, the product has been made with sustainability in mind. There are various labels such as MADE IN GREEN by OEKO-TEX® and STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX® which aim to regulate the manufacturing process and test for harmful substances.
- GOTS: The Global Organic Textile Standard helps to ensure that materials are organic, with at least 70% of certified organic materials. The manufacturing process also has to meet their ecological and social criteria.
- NBF: The National Bed Federation can give approval to toppers that comply with the standards and legislations regarding the British bed industry. Its members include 75% of the bed UK bedding turnover.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are mattress toppers?
A mattress topper is an extra layer that you can place on top of your existing mattress. Mattress toppers can range in thickness and firmness. Materials also vary and can include memory foam, latex and wool.
Where to buy mattress toppers?
You can find a wide range of mattress toppers available in the UK. Many well-known mattress and bedding brands sell mattress toppers in-store and on their websites. You can also find a variety of options on Amazon.
What do mattress toppers do?
Mattress toppers can help add a layer of comfort and protection to your existing mattress. They can also be used to adjust the firmness and feel of the surface if you cannot invest in a whole new mattress.