A mattress topper is an additional layer of bedding that sits on top of your mattress and can in some way alter the sleep surface. For example, they can add a layer of comfort, adjust the firmness, and provide extra protection to your existing mattress.
Mattress toppers generally range in thickness from 2.5-10.5cm and are made from various materials. They are typically available in standard mattress sizes and are designed to sit directly on top of the mattress or come with elastic straps that fit securely around the mattress.
Benefits Of A Mattress Topper
Ultimately, we all want our sleep environment to be as conducive to a good nights sleep as possible. As well as offering added protection for your mattress, a mattress topper enables sleep surface customisation to facilitate this. Some of the benefits of the correct mattress topper are listed below.
- A new topper can refresh and rejuvenate your old mattress.
- They can increase the lifespan of your mattress by protecting against structural wear and tear as well as spills and stains.
- Mattress toppers can offer additional support and relieve pressure points where necessary.
- They can change the feel of your mattress - from a firmer to a softer surface and vice versa.
- Unlike a mattress, toppers are more versatile - they can be added or removed for hotter or colder seasons.
- They may also prove to be a good option if you cannot invest in a new mattress but are unhappy with your current one.
Differences Between Mattress Toppers, Pads, And Protectors
When researching mattress toppers, you may also come across mattress pads and mattress protectors. Whilst these products are all accessories to a mattress; they have slightly different characteristics and functions.
It’s worthwhile to know the differences so that you can select whichever one best suits your individual needs and preferences.
The table below discusses some of the general differences between mattress toppers, pads and protectors relative to each other.
| Characteristic | Mattress topper | Mattress pad | Mattress protector |
| Thickness | Generally thickest (greater than 2.5cm) | Generally thinner than a topper (2.5cm or less) | Generally thinnest |
| Feel | Adds significant cushioning | Adds slight plushness | No change in feel |
| Support | The thicker layer offers more support | Provides light support | No additional support |
| Cooling properties | Some yes - dependent on individual topper and materials used | Some yes - dependent on individual pad and materials used | Some yes - dependent on individual protector and materials used |
| Materials | Various - foam, latex, wool | Various - cotton, wool, cluster fibre, foam, down and feather filling | Various - fibers such as rayon and polyester, and for waterproofing, vinyl and plastic may be used |
| Waterproof | Generally not waterproof | Some waterproof options are available | Usually waterproof |
| Protection from wear | Thickness allows superior protection - protects against general wear and tear sagging and pressure on springs | Not as effective as mattress toppers | Due to thinness very little protection against wear |
| Protection from liquids | Not resistant to spills or stains | Some materials prevent spills from soaking through | A greater degree of protection from spills and stains than mattress pads or toppers |
| Protection from allergens and bacteria | Dependent on materials used and coverage | Dependent on materials used and coverage | Dependent on materials used and coverage |
| Purpose | Can alter the feel of your mattress, making it softer or firmer | Adds a bit of softness and improves protection | Mattress protection |
| Cleaning | Heavier and more cumbersome to clean - spot cleaning generally recommended | Easy to care for - many are machine-washable | Easy to care for - many are machine-washable |
| Price | Generally most expensive | Generally less expensive than toppers | Generally cheapest |
| Trials | Some come with trial periods | Usually no trial period | Usually no trial period |
Mattress Topper Types
Ultimately, a person's bedding requirements will depend on individual needs and preferences. And as with most bedding, different types of mattress toppers all have their advantages and disadvantages.
They come in a range of different styles and vary in materials used and construction. Whilst some are made to offer increased plushness and comfort, others are designed to provide extra support or keep sleepers cool.
Familiarising yourself with the different available options is always advisable so that you can make the most well-informed decision on which is best for you.
Memory Foam
Memory foam is well known for its unique contouring features and its ability to mould to a person’s shape using their body heat. It is also known for providing deep pressure relief and support.
Although traditional memory foam is known to retain heat, modifications in the material over the years has led to open-cell or gel-infused memory foam, which can help cool the bedding down, ensuring a more comfortable night’s sleep.
In addition, memory foam tends to isolate motion well, making a memory foam topper a good potential choice for couples wanting to minimise sleep disturbances.
Latex
Latex mattress toppers are made from natural or synthetic materials or a combination of both. Natural latex is harvested from the sap of rubber trees, and synthetic latex is a petroleum chemical-based version of natural latex. Blended latex is a combination of both.
Natural latex, synthetic latex, and blended latex all have their advantages and disadvantages, as do the processing methods applied to each.
Latex is known for its durability, bounce, temperature regulation, and pressure relief - it’s a good option for those seeking extra contouring without too much sinking. Those who are eco-conscious may prefer natural latex; however, these are usually more expensive than synthetic alternatives.
Bamboo
A topper is categorised as a bamboo mattress topper if the cover is made using bamboo fabric or if the foam has been infused with bamboo in the form of bamboo charcoal (aiding in temperature regulation and eliminating odours).
Bamboo mattress toppers are known for their comfort, durability, cooling and anti-allergenic properties. Research✓ has shown that bamboo has many benefits, such as its soft feel and moisture-wicking abilities. However, its bamboo’s eco-friendly properties that appeal to many individuals.
Wool
Wool mattress toppers are often made using the fleece from sheep and goats, and whilst not as common as other material types, they have several benefits, including breathability. Wool has excellent temperature regulating properties and is a good option for all seasons.
Additional characteristics can depend on the specific type of wool used, including Merino, Alpaca and Angora. A wool mattress topper is a good potential option if you prefer a biodegradable and renewable material.
Mattress Toppers And Sleep Position
Many might not be aware that our optimal sleep surface is largely dependent on the position in which we sleep. This will determine which body parts press into the mattress topper or mattress, where the pressure may build up, and ultimately how the spine is aligned. Based on this, do you know which topper is best for you?
Side Sleepers
Side sleepers often prefer a slightly softer surface with a balance of comfort and support with cushioning around the knees, hips, and shoulders.
A too-firm topper will not allow enough cushioning for the shoulders and hips, whilst one that is too soft will not provide enough. Due to this, foam mattress toppers can be popular for side sleepers as they can offer cushioning around the knees, hips and shoulders.
Fun fact!
Side-sleeping has been shown✓ to be the most predominant sleep position for adults.
Stomach Sleepers
Stomach sleepers may require a firmer surface to prevent the stomach and hips from sinking, leading to incorrect spinal alignment. Firmer mattress toppers like some latex toppers may be a good option.
Back Sleepers
Back sleepers distribute their weight more evenly than side or stomach sleepers and tend to prefer a firmer sleep surface with support, but it’s advised to avoid a mattress topper that is too firm so there is a gap between the bed and the lumbar region 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.
Interestingly, a small study✓ of 40 healthy males showed that a soft topper of 30mm thickness was the best combination (lower body pressure and temperature distribution) during sleeping in a supine (back) position.
Mattress Toppers And Pain
Depending on the cause and location, some musculoskeletal pain may be more challenging to treat and manage than others. Your bedding, however, may have the potential to minimise it, thereby increasing your quality of sleep.
So, if buying a new orthopaedic mattress or mattress for back pain is, for whatever reason, not an option, a mattress topper might be worth a try.
Mattress toppers for back or other musculoskeletal pain can help by evenly distributing weight and relieving susceptible pressure points. In addition, they can provide the necessary support and cushion our spines, promoting good posture, thereby allowing for a comfortable sleep.
They may be ideal for those who suffer from musculoskeletal pain, and the support offered should, in theory, be more specialised than that of a regular mattress topper. Mattress toppers for back pain may have similar features to orthopaedic mattress toppers.
Links between side sleeping and shoulder pain have been shown✓ - and a cushioning yet supportive foam topper may provide some pressure relief. Latex and wool toppers are also known for having a comfortable and soft feel.
Good to know!
Research has shown✓ that although back pain can negatively affect our sleep, improving sleep can be a preventative against back pain, and interventions to reduce sleep disturbances can help to improve health.
Mattress Toppers And Body Weight
Generally speaking, heavier people may find that a firmer sleep surface might be best. It is easy to sink too deeply into a soft mattress topper, which can result in pressure and lead to the sleeper waking up with an aching body.
On the other hand, a lighter person is less likely to sink into a soft mattress topper but may also find a medium-firm or firm mattress topper suits them fine - offering them enough support and comfort, as well as keeping the spine correctly aligned.
The best thickness of the topper may also depend on a person's weight and size - heavier people need more support, and therefore a thicker mattress topper is perhaps a good option. However, thinner toppers may not offer sufficient support or comfort.
Conclusion
Mattress toppers are a great alternative to purchasing a new mattress if you want specific features from a sleep surface but cannot replace your current mattress, or if you don’t want a new mattress, only to alter the feel somehow.
There are certain factors worth considering when looking to purchase the best-suited mattress topper - such as sleeping position and weight, discussed above. However, it is definitely not a one-size-fits-all solution, and what works best will often come down to individual needs and preferences, perhaps even some trial and error. Having a good idea of what you need and prefer is the best place to start.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a mattress topper do?
A mattress topper is an additional layer of bedding placed on your mattress to alter the sleep surface in some way - either by providing extra comfort, support, warmth or coolness, prolonging the lifespan, or rejuvenating an old tired mattress.
What is the best mattress topper?
The best mattress topper will depend entirely on your needs and preferences. Your sleep position and your size and weight are some of the factors to consider when making your decision.
How do you clean a mattress topper?
Mattress toppers are most often not machine-washable, and spot cleaning is recommended. Be sure you are using the correct products for the type of stain, and always check cleaning instructions first.