Brooklyn Bedding Gel Swirl Mattress Topper
A high-quality mattress topper that excels in every category.
Read Full ReviewBest Mattress Toppers
Written by Becca Fair, Certified Sleep Science Coach
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 a good option. Toppers, which range from 1” to 4” thick, come in a variety of sizes, firmness levels, and materials, 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 of 2023
- Brooklyn Bedding Gel Swirl Topper – Nerd’s Pick
- TEMPUR-Adapt Topper – Best Mattress Topper for Side Sleepers
- Layla Memory Foam Topper – Best Cooling Mattress Topper
- Birch Plush Pillow Top – Best Mattress Topper for Back Pain
- Saatva Graphite Mattress Topper – Best Luxury Mattress Topper
- Allswell CoolTouch 4″ Topper – Best Affordable Mattress Topper
- Parachute Down Mattress Topper – Best Down Mattress Topper
Watch our Review
Our Editors, Becca and Loren, break down each top pick in our video roundup.
Chosen by Experts and Advocates
When you invest in a mattress topper, you want to know you’re getting a high-quality, comfortable product. From hands-on testing for things like responsiveness and motion isolation to hours of research on other user reviews, we’re here to help you find the right topper for your needs.
Nerd’s Pick: Brooklyn Bedding Gel Swirl Topper
Pros of the Brooklyn Bedding Gel Swirl Topper
Affordable
Cooling
Cushioning
Cons of the Brooklyn Bedding Gel Swirl Topper
Not the most responsive
If you’re looking for the classic slow-response memory foam feel, this topper delivers. While the cradling foam does have less responsiveness, which can make it a little more difficult to move around at night, it does provide plenty of comfort and cushioning. It’s probably not the best choice for combination sleepers that need a bouncier surface, but side and back sleepers should snooze soundly on this supportive product.
It’s also an affordable option if you want to upgrade your bedding on a budget. The 2″ queen-size topper retails for just over $100, and Brooklyn Bedding typically offers discounts.
What our testers say: “The gel infusion helps keep you cool while the supportive memory foam keeps you comfy. This budget-friendly topper also comes with a 30-day sleep trial and 3-year warranty.” –Becca, Lead Accessories Tester
For an in-depth look at our experience with this topper, check out the Brooklyn Bedding Gel Swirl Mattress Topper Review.
Best Mattress Topper for Side Sleepers: TEMPUR-Adapt Topper
TEMPUR-Adapt Mattress Topper
This foam topper is made of 3 inches of supportive TEMPUR material. It is designed to enhance or improve the original comfort level of virtually any mattress, no matter how firm or soft.
Mattress Nerd Score
4.50 / 5
Read Full Review
Pros of the TEMPUR-Adapt Topper
Hypoallergenic
Thick
Firmer than most toppers
Cons of the TEMPUR-Adapt Topper
Not very responsive
Can get hot
This 3” thick topper is constructed with Tempur-Pedic’s proprietary memory foam, known for cradling pressure points and providing superior comfort. It’s made with corner straps designed to ensure a secure, non-slip attachment to your mattress, which means it won’t shift around while you’re sleeping.
The topper is encased in a dust mite- and allergen-resistant cover that can be easily removed and is machine washable. The Tempur material won’t flatten out over time and is known for its breathability, meaning this topper will last for years while keeping you cool at night. While pricey, it does come with a 10-year warranty.
What our testers say: “The Tempur topper is a great way to enjoy all the contouring, and pressure-relieving benefits of this famed material without going all-in on an expensive Tempur-Pedic mattress. Enjoy the signature ‘hugged’ sensation of Tempur, which responds to your body weight, shape and temperature for deep comfort and support.” –Becca, Lead Accessories Tester
Read our full Tempur-Pedic Mattress Topper Review to learn more.
Best Cooling Mattress Topper: Layla Memory Foam Topper
Layla Mattress Topper
Layla's mattress topper features copper gel-infused memory foam to prevent overheating.
Mattress Nerd Score
4.20 / 5
Read Full Review
Pros of the Layla Memory Foam Topper
Cooling
Great motion isolation
Cons of the Layla Memory Foam Topper
May be too soft for some sleepers
Expensive
The Layla topper is made from a combination of polyester, viscose, and a poly and lycra blend that’s infused with copper gel. The gel beads not only keep the topper cool by drawing heat away from your body but are antimicrobial, aiding in blocking bacteria from settling down in your mattress.
This 2”-inch thick mattress topper is designed to be cool without sacrificing support. The CertiPUR-US-certified foam condenses right where you need it most, like the hips and shoulders, so you feel comfortable and supported all night long. Test it out with a 120-night money-back guarantee, and enjoy free shipping, too. It’s available in all sizes from twin to California king
What our testers say: “The Layla Memory Foam Topper is plush and soft, yet supportive enough to provide pressure relief for your hips and shoulders.” –Becca, Lead Accessories Tester
Check out our full Layla Memory Foam Topper Review to learn more.
Best Mattress Topper for Back Pain: Birch Plush Organic Topper
Birch Plush Organic Mattress Topper
This non-toxic topper is perfect for back sleepers thanks to its latex layer.
Mattress Nerd Score
4.70 / 5
Pros of the Birch Plush Organic Topper
Natural and safe certified materials
Cushioning and supportive
Cons of the Birch Plush Organic Topper
Expensive
Made from layers of natural wool and Talalay latex, this organic topper is 3” thick and has a medium feel that will help keep your spine aligned, making it our best pick for sleepers with back pain. The latex is highly breathable to maximize airflow, and Birch uses natural, chemical-free materials.
The body-contouring latex helps your spine rest in its natural shape instead of getting thrown out of alignment, so people with back pain can rest a little bit easier at night. This pillow top is available in all mattress sizes, and Birch offers free shipping, a 100-night sleep trial, and a one-year warranty.
What our testers say: “If you’re looking for a non-toxic topper, the Birch Plus Organic Mattress Topper has all the right certifications, including Greenguard Gold and GOTS. It’s made with zero synthetic materials, polyurethane-based foams, or harmful chemicals.” –Becca, Lead Accessories Tester
Best Luxury Mattress Topper: Saatva Graphite Mattress Topper
Saatva Graphite Mattress Topper
Saatva makes one of the best memory foam mattress toppers in terms of keeping you comfortable and cool at the same time. Their latex topper is great for hot sleepers who sleep on their back, and the high-density foam topper is a great solution for stomach sleepers looking for comfortable support.
Mattress Nerd Score
4.80 / 5
Read Full Review
Pros of the Saatva Graphite Mattress Topper
Great motion isolation
Cooling
Cushioning
Cons of the Saatva Graphite Mattress Topper
Expensive
Spot-clean only
The Saatva mattress topper is one of our favorite luxury options on the market when it comes to toppers. This graphite-infused topper is best for hot sleepers who love the feel of memory foam. It also works well for side sleepers, as it helps support proper spinal alignment. The Saatva topper comes with a 1-year warranty and a 180-night sleep trial.
Keep in mind that this topper is spot-clean only, so you’ll want to use a mattress protector to keep it from getting dirty.
During our tests, it scored a 5 out of 5 on temperature control, motion isolation, and quality of materials.
What our testers say: “Graphite is used as a heat conductor, which draws heat away from the body to prevent overheating. The memory foam is also CertiPUR-US certified, meaning it’s free of harmful chemicals. If you’re looking for a doughy, impressionable feel without the heat buildup, this is the option for you.” –Becca, Lead Accessories Tester
For more on our hands-on test, check out our Saatva Mattress Topper Review.
Best Affordable Mattress Topper: Allswell CoolTouch 4″ Topper
Allswell 4” Mattress Topper Infused with Copper Gel
Keep cool and comfortable all night with this temperature-regulating topper.
Pros of the Allswell CoolTouch Topper
Cooling
Affordable
CertiPUR-US certified and anti-microbial
Cons of the Allswell CoolTouch Topper
Can cause “sinking” feeling
Limited pressure relief
Allswell offers a few topper options that are worth a look, but I’ll go ahead and call the 4″ CoolTouch Topper the winner in my eyes. This one comes with all their bells and whistles—premium foam with graphite and copper gel to help regulate temperature.
While this is their top-of-the-line, it still comes at a reasonable price compared to many other competitors. Their two lower models feel really nice too, but for not very much more, you can get their upgrade. Enjoy!
Copper gel-infused memory foam sleeps cool and comfortably in this nicely-sized topper. The two-layer design makes this a great option for adding comfort and support, which isn’t always the case with mattress toppers.
What our testers say: “The 2” and 4” toppers are both made with a copper gel infusion, which is beneficial because copper has natural antimicrobial properties. If you tend to wake up with a stuffy nose, your mattress may have slowly absorbed all kinds of bacteria and allergens over the years, but with these Allswell mattress toppers, you can wake up with clear sinuses.” –Becca, Lead Accessories Tester
See our full Allswell Mattress Topper Review to learn more.
Best Down Mattress Topper: Parachute Down Mattress Topper
Parachute Down Mattress Topper
The Parachute Down Feather Bed is a soft, fluffy mattress topper that's a great match for hot sleepers and back sleepers.
Mattress Nerd Score
4.30 / 5
Read Full Review
Pros of the Parachute Down Topper
Ethically and sustainably sourced
Great pressure relief
Cons of the Parachute Down Topper
Dry clean only
Temperature-neutral, but may get hot
This super-soft, marshmallow-like topper is filled with premium European white down and encased in a 100 percent sateen cotton shell. The down is sustainably and ethically repurposed from humanely treated ducks, and the product is Oeko-Tex certified, meaning it’s free of harmful chemicals and synthetics.
Reviewers write that this product reminds them of sleeping in a luxury hotel and that it keeps them cool throughout the night. Keep in mind that the Parachute topper is dry clean only, so if you prefer quick washes this might not be the one for you.
Want to feel like you’re sleeping on a soft, marshmallow-y cloud? Down is the way to go, and Parachute’s version is beautifully made. The topper has a dual-chamber design and baffle box stitching, features that help the fill stay evenly distributed for snug, cozy nights.
What our testers say: “The Parachute down mattress topper feels very plush. With 550 fill power, this topper has considerable loft which then slowly compresses when you lie down. This creates a soft, feather bed feeling that is well-suited for lighter back sleepers and side sleepers. The topper will cradle around pressure points and conform to the sleeper’s body shape.” –Becca Fair
Read our full Parachute Down Mattress Topper review to learn more!
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 home 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 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, 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.
Benefits of a Mattress Topper
- Improved Comfort: Mattress toppers create an improved, more comfortable sleeping surface on a mattress that’s currently not suitable, whether it’s too firm, too soft or simply old.
- Pain Relief: 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.
- Better Durability: 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.
- Temperature Regulation: Many also feature a cooling effect through gel beads or other technology that improves the overall breathability of the bed.
- Affordable: Rather than spending $1,000 or more on a new mattress, a new mattress topper may sufficiently improve the quality of your current sleep situation, and it will cost you much less.
Mattress Topper Materials
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. Here are the most common types of mattress topper materials and their features.
- Memory foam is a great choice for back and side sleepers who need extra contouring and like to sink into the surface. Conforming to your body, it helps relieve pressure from the hips and shoulders and promotes proper spinal alignment. While memory foam can sleep hot, gel or copper infusions can help regulate the temperature better. For more information, check out our list of the best memory foam mattress toppers.
- Polyfoam provides similar contouring properties to memory foam except it has more responsiveness. If you want pressure relief but don’t want to sink into the mattress too much, polyfoam could be a great option for you.
- Latex is also a material that hugs your body and helps with pain relief. It provides a bouncy surface which is great for those who move around a lot. Additionally, latex is a hypoallergenic material known to sleep cool.
- Down or feather toppers can give you a luxurious softness and cushion feel. They are great at temperature regulation all year long so you don’t sleep too hot or cold. Down alternative is a great choice if you want an eco-friendly topper with the same benefits.
- Wool may not be the most conforming material out there, but it is still soft with some cushion. It can be a great choice if temperature regulation is a priority. It has moisture-wicking and cooling properties for warm months and it can provide insulation during cold months.
Other Things 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:
- Thickness & Density: Most mattress toppers measure from 1” to 4” 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.
- Cleaning: How you clean your mattress topper will depend on the material and brand. One way to clean a topper is to spot-treat it as necessary with diluted detergent or a distilled white vinegar solution. For a full clean, you can sprinkle baking soda over the surface and let it sit for approximately 8 hours. Vacuum up the baking soda and then your mattress will be fresher and cleaner! Make sure to check with the brand’s website for a more detailed or specific guide on how to keep your topper clean. Also, for more information, you can check out our full article on how to clean a mattress topper.
Mattress Toppers vs. Mattress Pads
Think of mattress pads as less substantial versions of mattress toppers. Thinner, cheaper, and less cumbersome, these products have slight effects on the softness of a mattress, while mattress toppers can alter the feel of a mattress significantly.
If you’re looking for a little bit of added comfort, a mattress pad may be the way to go. 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. For more information, check out our article on mattress toppers vs. mattress pads.
Mattress Toppers vs. Mattress Protectors
A mattress protector adds no extra comfort to your sleeping situation, it simply guards your mattress from stains, spills, and dust mites. While a mattress topper is primarily designed to add support or comfort, it can also have protective features, particularly if it’s waterproof and hypoallergenic. So, if you purchase the right mattress topper you may not need a mattress protector.
Mattress Topper FAQs
What are the benefits of a mattress topper?
In short, a mattress topper can improve the quality of your sleep situation for a fraction of what a new mattress would cost. It can be used to provide additional softness, durability, and temperature regulation to a mattress that might not be up to your standards.
What is the best thickness for a mattress topper?
Mattress toppers generally range from 1″ to 4″ thick. For maximum support and cushioning, you’ll want to go with the 4″ topper. However, if your mattress is in good shape and you’re only looking to augment its firmness then you should be okay with something on the thinner side.
What should you look for in a mattress topper?
It depends what you’re looking for in a sleep experience. If you’re looking for additional pressure relief, be sure to look for a topper with plenty of cushioning. Do you sleep hot at night? Consider a latex mattress topper with good cooling capabilities. Determine what kind of sleep it is that you want then start your research with those factors in mind.
