A mattress might appear perfect at first, only for you to quickly realise that there are some key things about it that you would like to change. If you feel like this is the case with your current mattress, you could consider adding a wool mattress topper. Wool fibre✓ can help add comfort and offer some key benefits to help you get a good night’s sleep.
While some might be reluctant to choose wool due to the price tag, this could be a great option for a mattress topper if you experience different temperatures throughout the year. Wool is known to be great at temperature regulation, as well as being comfortable. It is a suitable choice if you also want to choose sustainable or organic materials.
(Important Facts, Studies, Advice, Considerations & FAQs In Conclusion).
| MATTRESS TOPPER | WOOL TYPE | WARRANTY | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Soak & Sleep New Zealand Wool Mattress Topper | New Zealand Wool | 5 Years | £110 |
| John Lewis Duvets Natural Devon Wool Topper | British Wool | NA Years | £120 |
| The White Company Reversible Luxury Mattress Topper | Merino Wool | NA Years | £130 |
| Hypnos Wool Mattress Topper | British Wool | 10 Years | £263 |
| Merino Wool Reversible Mattress Topper | Merino Wool | NA Years | £89 |
| Abaca Organic Wool Topper | Organic Lambs Wool | Up to 20 Years | £595 |
1. Soak & Sleep New Zealand Wool Mattress Topper
| HIGHLIGHTS | SUITABILITY |
|---|---|
| • New Zealand wool • 3cm depth • 5-year guarantee | • Those looking to reduce sleep disruption • Individuals with allergies • People seeking a machine-washable topper |
The New Zealand wool mattress topper from Soak & Sleep has already attracted many positive reviews. You can buy this topper in sizes ranging from single up to a super king, and it qualifies for free delivery when you buy directly from Soak & Sleep.
Standing at 3 cm, the topper offers comfort and is also designed to be hypoallergenic, meaning it could appeal to those with allergies or sensitive skin. They have used sustainable New Zealand Mitchell wool to create this mattress, which they claim can help improve your REM sleep quality by up to 25%.
The wool topper has also been designed to be temperature regulating. Wool such as this will strive to create the ideal setting for you to go to sleep. If you are too cold, it will retain as much heat as possible to make a warm place for you to sleep. Likewise, if you find that you are too warm, it will work to release some of that heat to make your sleep more pleasant.
This topper has also been designed to be machine-washable to help keep it clean and fresh. Soak & Sleep have also given it a 5-year guarantee and has been tested to comply with EN standards.
2. John Lewis Devon Duvets Wool Mattress Topper
| HIGHLIGHTS | SUITABILITY |
|---|---|
| • 100% certified British wool • Chemical-free • 5cm thickness | • Those seeking pressure relief • Hot sleepers • People who prefer UK based products |
This mattress topper from Devon Duvets stands at 5 cm thick. This thick wool topper can be purchased from John Lewis, and sizes range from single up to a super king.
The topper includes 100% certified British wool and is also handcrafted by a family business in Devon. The wool they use is not treated with any chemicals or bleached, meaning the topper can retain its natural properties. The wool filling also means that you will be able to take advantage of its anti-allergy and temperature regulation properties.
In addition, the topper has been designed to be beneficial for those suffering from aches and pains. Devon Duvets also state that the topper is breathable, and therefore a suitable option for those who tend to sleep hot.
This topper will be delivered to you compressed, and the company recommends you wait at least 24 hours after unpacking it to air it out. It is also recommended that you do not use an electric blanket with this product as it can limit the toppers effectiveness.
3. The White Company Reversible Merino Wool Mattress Topper
| HIGHLIGHTS | SUITABILITY |
|---|---|
| • Reversible design • Merino wool • 230 cotton thread count | • Sleepers looking for added comfort • Those living in changing climates • People who value natural materials |
The White Company specialises in luxury goods, and are offering their Reversible Luxury Mattress Topper. You can purchase this topper as a single, a double, a king, or a super king. To secure it to the bed, there are four elasticated corner straps to keep the topper secure.
The topper is double-sided and is designed to be used all year round throughout the seasons. In winter, it is advised to use the Merino side to keep you feeling warm. You can then flip it over in the hotter months for the cotton side, which has been made to feel cool and crisp.
The wool topper includes 100% wool in the base layer and 100% hollow fibre in the top layer. There is also a 230 cotton thread count within the mattress topper. The overall feel has been designed to offer a soft and comfortable experience.
It can be machine-washed and tumbled dried, but the White Company recommend washing at a professional laundry service. This mattress topper also qualifies for free delivery from The White Company. They aim to deliver a high standard of customer service that matches the quality of their products.
4. Hypnos Wool Mattress Topper
| HIGHLIGHTS | SUITABILITY |
|---|---|
| • 100% British wool • 10-year warranty • Royal Warrant ceritification | • Eco-friendly individuals • Those prone to allergies • Sleepers seeking temperature regulation |
This Hypnos wool topper is available in multiple sizes, from single and double, up to small emperor size -all with a depth of approximately 3cm. The topper also comes with four elasticated straps that are designed to fit any mattress depth and will help you to secure the topper in place.
It is made from 100% British wool filling with a soft cotton cover. Wool has been included to offer temperature regulation and natural insulation, keeping you warm in winter and cool in the summer. The natural hydroscopic properties found in the materials also help to evaporate bodily moisture.
In addition to this, the wool is naturally hypoallergenic, so a suitable option for those who suffer from allergies. For individuals concerned for the environment, the wool is also renewable, sustainable and biodegradable.
Upon purchase, the manufacturers are able to offer a 10-year guarantee. In addition to this, the manufacturers Hypnos hold a Royal Warrant. These are awarded to companies that have provided goods for the British Royal Family and are an indicator of the quality of the goods.
5. Merino Wool Fleece Reversible Mattress Topper
| HIGHLIGHTS | SUITABILITY |
|---|---|
| • Double-sided design • Merino wool • Elastic straps | • Those on a budget • People with sensitive skin • Individuals seeking durability |
This Reversible Mattress Topper uses Merino wool, which is known to be thinner and softer than standard wool. The Merino wool has been included to provide temperature regulation and is able to adapt to the seasons.
As this is a reversible mattress topper, it includes two different materials on each side. One side is made from cotton to keep you cool in the summer, whereas the other side is made from wool to keep you warm in the colder months. To help hold this wool mattress topper in place, there is an elastic strap in each corner. If you are prone to toss and turn each night, these straps should help to keep everything secure.
Merino wool is naturally resistant to dust mites and other nuisances that could disrupt your night’s sleep. The combination here with the cotton helps create a system that can regulate a body’s temperature with ease while also ensuring that any perspiration or moisture in the bed is carried away.
6. Abaca Organic Wool Topper
| HIGHLIGHTS | SUITABILITY |
|---|---|
| • Organic certification • Up to 20 years guarantee • Free from pesticides | • Those with a bigger budget • Environmentally-conscious individuals • Individuals seeking temperature regulation |
The Abaca organic wool mattress topper is created in their workshop in Carmarthenshire. Abaca also carries an organic certification from the Global Organic Textile Standard by the Soil Association. Layers of needled wool have been used to construct the mattress topper, meaning it won't compress as other wool mattress toppers can do.
Organic wool can help to regulate temperature and can help to keep you cool in the summer months and warm in winter. The wool is also naturally hypoallergenic and free from any harmful pesticides, herbicides and insecticides. Abaca offers a large range of sizes, with their mattress toppers available in all standard sizes from singles up to super kings.
Abaca provides a guarantee of up to 20 years on their toppers, so you can feel reassured that the product will be protected over time. On top of this, they also offer free delivery across the UK mainland.
Defining A Wool Mattress Topper
A mattress topper is an extra layer that can be placed over the mattress for added protection and comfort. The mattress topper can be made from various materials, such as latex, foam, and in this case, wool.
Wool mattress toppers are often made using the fleece from sheep and goats, meaning it’s both renewable and biodegradable. When used in mattress toppers, wool is known to have good temperature regulating properties. The different benefits can depend on the type of wool used, including Merino, Alpaca and Angora.
Did you know?
For decades, the price of British wool has not been enough to cover the costs of shearing and transportation. As a result, tonnes of wool has been burnt or buried due to wastage. It was reported that 66% of British consumers were unaware of this fact.
Types Of Wool
The types of wool mattress toppers available in the UK are often categorised as British or Merino wool. However, there are other types of wool which you may find on the market. Different wool types can offer various benefits, but they can also have some disadvantages.
- Merino: Taken from Merino sheep, this type of wool is known for being thinner than other types. Merino wool is known to have good temperature regulating properties and being able to adapt to different climates. Additionally, merino is said to have moisture-wicking abilities - a study✓ even found that merino wool textiles can help transport sweat away from the skin.
- Alpaca: As the name suggests, this type of wool comes from alpacas. Alpaca wool is popular due to its soft and durable feel. Moreover, alpaca fibre is known to be naturally water-resistant. Despite this, alpaca wool also tends to be warmer than other types due to its heat retention properties.
- Angora: Unlike the typical sheep wool, angora wool actually comes from rabbits. It is known for its silky, soft feel and is both sustainable and biodegradable. Unfortunately, the process of obtaining angora wool has been questioned due to possible unethical practices surrounding the rabbits.
- Mohair: Perhaps one of the more expensive types of wool, mohair is taken from the Angora goat - not to be confused with Angora wool. Mohair wool has been described as durable, lightweight and with temperature regulating properties. However, Mohair has also gained attention from animal rights organisations for the inhumane treatment of Angora goats in obtaining wool in some parts of the world.
Environment & Ethics
As climate change has been receiving much more attention in recent years, many are showing more concern regarding whether or not their products are environmentally friendly. When searching for sustainable and eco-friendly products, it’s worth doing a little digging as some claims may be false or exaggerated.
When it comes to wool mattress toppers, they are often sold as being eco-friendly and organic. Wool is usually obtained by shearing sheep or goats, which typically grows back fast; therefore, the material is also highly renewable. If the wool is deemed as organic and natural, it often means that it is unlikely to contain any harmful chemicals or pesticides. Whatsmore, wool is also completely biodegradable, as the natural material often contains keratin, which microorganisms can easily break down.
Fun Fact!
A US survey✓ involving 507 consumers found that customers were most likely to purchase a product labelled animal-friendly rather than organic or eco-friendly.
Despite this, there has been controversy surrounding certain types of wool as to whether or not they are ethically sourced. In particular, mohair and angora wool producers have been criticised due to the way they treat their animals. However, it’s worth noting that this does not apply to all mohair and angora wool and can be limited to certain parts of the world.
Things To Consider
There are many different types of wool mattress toppers available in the UK, so it can be helpful to identify the differences to get the right topper for you. You should always try to consider your own personal preferences when purchasing to ensure that you’re getting the most out of your money.
- Firmness: A firm mattress topper could be a good option for heavy people as it can give you enough support without sagging. Additionally, research✓ has found that a medium-firm surface could be a beneficial option for those who suffer back pain.
- Thickness: If a wool mattress topper is thicker, it tends to have greater temperature regulating properties. However, if you’re using a mattress topper simply as a protection layer, a thinner mattress topper will still allow you to feel the comfort of your current mattress.
- Materials: Different types of wool can offer different benefits. Merino wool is said to have good moisture-wicking properties, whereas alpaca wool is known to be very soft. Some wool is also more organic and ethically sourced than others.
- Sleeping Position: A firmer mattress topper could be beneficial for front or back sleepers as it may prevent the spine from curving unnaturally due to sinking in the surface. Side sleepers may prefer a soft to medium surface as it can provide cushion for the hips, knees and shoulders.
- Price: Wool mattress toppers tend to be more expensive than other types of wool. However, the higher price is often a testament to quality, durability and sustainability.
- Warranty: If you want to ensure that your purchase is protected over time, it’s worth checking the warranty. The warranty for wool mattress toppers typically lasts between 5 and 10 years. If the warranty information is not available, it’s worth getting in touch with the manufacturer for further details.
Wool Mattress Topper Benefits
While a wool mattress topper can offer many benefits, it may not appeal to everyone. Wool toppers may not provide the same cushion and contouring as memory foam toppers and can often be a little more pricey. Despite this, there are some advantages that make wool mattress toppers a popular choice.
- Temperature regulation: Wool is often regarded as a suitable material for its temperature regulating and moisture-wicking abilities. The material also has the potential to adapt to different temperatures and seasons.
- Eco-friendly: While this may not apply to all wool types, many mattress companies will categorise their wool toppers as eco-friendly. Wool is also renewable and biodegradable.
- Hypoallergenic: Due to the use of natural materials, wool toppers often contain hypoallergenic properties, meaning they can be a good option for those with allergies or sensitive skin. Organic wool toppers also shouldn’t have any harmful chemicals.
- Feel: Wool mattress toppers are known to have a soft feel that can help relieve pressure points and provide good levels of comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to wash a wool mattress topper?
Firstly, it’s worth checking whether or not the wool topper is machine washable - if so, check the temperature that it can be washed. If not, you can spot clean by using warm water and mild soap.
How to remove urine stains from a wool mattress topper?
Accidents can happen, and it is advised to clean the wool topper by hand. You can use a cloth or sponge to clean the stain with cold water. If the stain remains, you can use a mixture of salt and baking soda to remove it.
How soft is a wool mattress topper?
Wool mattress toppers are known for having a soft and comfortable feel. However, others are designed to have a firmer feel, often by combining other materials.
