Purchasing a new mattress is a heavy investment in both time spent determining which of the thousands out there is right for you and, of course, money. If you’re not interested in buying a new mattress just yet but want to take your bed’s comfort up a notch or two, a mattress topper is an option. Toppers, which range from 1”-3” thick, come in a variety of sizes, firmness levels, and materials today, and are almost always cheaper than buying a new mattress. In this guide, we’re sharing our picks for the best mattress toppers, considerations when shopping, the pros and cons of using a topper, and how to determine if you need a mattress topper for your bed.

Best Mattress Toppers

What is a Mattress Topper?

A mattress topper has a simple definition. It’s a separate layer of cushioning that’s added or removed from the surface of a mattress and serves the purpose of improving a bed’s overall comfort. Often confused with mattress pads, mattress toppers hone in on guaranteeing a comfortable night’s sleep whereas mattress pads are meant to protect the mattress from stains, spills, odors, and oils. 

Who Should Consider Buying a Mattress Topper?

There’s not a hard set of criteria for whether or not someone is a good fit for a mattress topper, as the purchase is up to one’s preference. If you’re sleeping just fine on your current mattress, it’s likely you don’t need one. However, if you find that any of the following are true of your mattress or sleep quality, a topper could be a worthwhile investment:

• If your comfort preferences vary from your partner, a topper can soften or firm up one side of the mattress. We recommend purchasing a twin or full size for one side of a king mattress.
• If you host guests in your home frequently and don’t want to invest as much money into your guest bedroom mattresses as you did in your master bedroom mattress, for example, a topper can add comfort to a guest bed for just a few hundred dollars.
• If you live in a short-term residence, like a dorm room, RV, hotel, or a care or hospice facility, where you don’t have much choice in your mattress type or firmness, a topper can provide some control over the comfort level of your sleeping surface.

Pros and Cons of Using a Mattress Topper

On the positive end, mattress toppers create an improved, more comfortable sleeping surface on a mattress that’s currently not suitable, whether it’s too form, too soft, or simply old. They can also provide an additional layer of support and stability for those with back issues, or pain and pressure relief for those experiencing pain in their neck, shoulders, and hips. A mattress topper will also increase the durability of the mattress beneath it, extending its lifespan by providing a buffer between the sleeper and the comfort layer. Many also feature a cooling effect through gel bead features or other technology that improves the overall breathability of the bed. 

Some of the downsides or drawbacks to be aware of with regard to mattress toppers include things like fitting issues, edge support, and limitations. Toppers can slide around beneath the sheets if not secured properly, and most toppers are barely smaller than the mattress they’re fitted to, meaning you might feel an uncomfortable difference at the perimeter of your mattress. And, of course, toppers can improve older mattresses, but they’re a bit like a temporary bandage. They’re no match for the versatility, comfort, and personalization an entirely new mattress can offer.

What to Consider When Shopping for a Topper

When shopping for a mattress topper, it’s important to consider your primary purpose for buying one. While most consumers desire improved comfort through a mattress topper, toppers can also indirectly adjust the firmness level of the mattress, alleviate pain, and improve airflow. Once you’ve determined why you’re in the market for a topper, here’s what to keep in mind as you shop:

• Material: Toppers made from different materials will vary in the sleep experience they can offer, their coolness, price, durability, and many other factors. Each material has its own benefits and drawbacks. Memory foam and latex help with spinal alignment and pain relief by contouring to the body. Feather and wool-filled toppers won’t conform as closely, but they’re very cool and comfortable. 
• Thickness & Density: Most mattress toppers measure from 1”-3” thick. Thin toppers are best when minor changes in the mattress’ surface are desired, and thicker toppers are capable of drastically adjusting the mattress’ comfort level. 
• Firmness: If you’re sleeping on a bed that’s too soft for your liking, look for a firmer topper. If your current mattress is too firm for you, a soft topper will make the bed more comfortable. 
• Durability: Lifespan will vary widely by brand, material, use, and fill. High-quality latex and memory foam toppers are among the most durable, followed closely by wool mattress toppers. Feather and fiber-filled toppers tend to have shorter lifespans. 
• Sleeping Position: The right mattress for you is largely determined by your sleeping position, and mattress toppers aren’t much different in that regard. Side sleepers need contouring toppers that allow the shoulders and hips to sink. Back sleepers need slightly firmer mattress toppers that will prevent the back and hips from sinking. For stomach sleepers, a firmer topper will prevent sinking in the stomach area. 

Narrowing down the best topper for you shouldn’t be too time-consuming, especially if you’ve shopped for a mattress in the last five years or so. Use your sleeping style and position to get you started with the guidelines above. If you’re dissatisfied with your current mattress but don’t want to invest the time or money into purchasing a new one, a topper can be a great in-between bedding option to improve the comfort and fit of your bed while saving some cash along the way.