Each day during a heatwave, my neighbor hangs her pillows and bedding on the line for a few hours of ‘sun washing’ or ‘sun curing’ – a viral cleaning trend that claims leaving bed sheets in direct, super-hot sunlight UV-sanitizes them. I understand the appeal – this ‘CleanTok’ hack is free, and who doesn’t like sleeping in line-fresh bedding?

But here’s the microbiological truth: ‘sun washing’ does little to get fungi, bacteria, dust mites and odors out of your pillows, bed sheets and toppers. According to a study on optimal ways to remove dust mites, allergens and pollen, a standard machine wash at 104°F 40°C leaves 94% of dust mites alive and kicking in your bedding. Yep, 94%.

So why is my neighbor dead-set on ‘sun washing’ her bedding during a heatwave? “The real benefit is moisture and not disinfection,” says Dr. Shanina C. Knighton, PhD, RN, CIC, an infection prevention expert and Research Associate Professor at the Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing at Case Western Reserve University.

To help us separate cleaning myth from microbiological reality, Dr. Knighton explains what ‘sun washing’ actually achieves, why pillows and bedding become moisture bombs during heatwaves, and the exact temperature a washing machine needs to get rid of the nasties.

Key take-aways: At a glance

• The 'sun washing' misconception: Hanging pillows and duvets outside in the sun won't disinfect them. Sunlight cannot physically lift soil or skin cells, and UV rays can't penetrate dense pillow and comforter interiors where microbes hide.
• Why airing bedding in a heatwave is still smart: Moving hot air pulls moisture, sweat, and odors trapped inside dense bedding. It temporarily stops bacteria from multiplying, but it won't get rid of the bacteria.
• The wash temperature that works: According to one study, 104°F / 40°C washes leave 94% of dust mites alive in your bedding. To eliminate dust mites and pathogens, you must machine wash your bedding using the warmest setting its care label safely tolerates. The ideal is 130°F to 140°F / 54.4°C to 60°C.
• When to wash bedding in a heatwave: While pillowcases and bed sheets should be washed once a week (minimum) during summer, step up the frequency if you sweat heavily, skip nighttime showers, have acne-prone skin, or share the bed with pets. Especially during a heatwave.
• Prioritize a dry bed over a tidy bed: Never make your bed straight after getting up if you've been sweating and the sheets felt damp. Pulling up the covers seals in body heat and moisture – the ideal conditions for fungi and odors to multiply during a heatwave.

‘Sun washing’ refreshes bedding — it doesn’t disinfect

With regular use, pillows and bedding house a build-up of fungi, dust mites, other allergens and odors.

“When researchers at the University of Manchester cultured used pillows, ones in service from a year and a half to more than 20 years, they found between four and 16 species of fungi in a single pillow, with higher numbers in the synthetic ones,” reveals Dr. Knighton.

“The concern is not that any single pillow is a biohazard. It is hours of close contact, night after night, with moisture and skin debris and microbial buildup sitting right against your face and airway."

Deep penetration is required to disinfect dense pillows and comforters, especially older ones that don’t get cleaned regularly in a washing machine — and that’s something a few hours of airing outside can’t deliver.

“A machine wash physically lifts sweat, oil, skin cells, allergens, and microbes off the fabric through detergent, water, agitation, rinsing, and heat,” Dr. Knighton explains. “Sunlight does not lift soil off of anything.”

Even the geometry of some pillows and bedding dilutes the germ-killing potential of ultraviolet light.

“Direct sun can reduce some microbes on an exposed surface, but the exposure is uneven and unreliable,” says Dr. Knighton. “The top of a duvet might catch the sun while the underside, the seams, the folds, and the dense fill inside a pillow never do.”

The fungi and bacteria hiding deep within the stuffing or wadding of your pillow and comforter remain entirely unreached by sunlight, even if you're 'sun washing' during a raging heatwave.

“I would never tell someone to skip a wash because the bedding spent an afternoon outside,” warns Dr. Knighton.

Why you should still air pillows and bedding outside in a heatwave

Moisture, not microbes, is the real reason to hang your pillows, comforter, and bed sheets out to air during a heatwave. You aren’t UV-sanitizing, you’re UV-dehydrating.

Every night as you lie in bed sweating away during a heatwave, your bedding acts like a giant sponge. It drinks up sweat, saliva (drool), skin oils, dead skin cells, and not to mention skin and hair products. During a heatwave, that sponge becomes extra thirsty and absorption rockets.

“Putting pillows and bedding out in dry moving air pulls that dampness back out and cuts the odor that comes with it,” Dr. Knighton notes. “That is what airing does. It dries and freshens between washes. It does not sanitize anything.”

How pillows and bedding become ‘moisture bombs’ in hot weather

All those hot, sticky summer nights spent sweating away in bed drive moisture down into your mattress, pillows and bedding.

“A dense pillow or comforter holds onto moisture far longer than a thin sheet does,” explains Dr. Knighton. “After a hot night, it’s carrying sweat, skin oil, and shed skin cells, and the warmth stays in the fill.

“Warmth, moisture, and organic material with no airflow is exactly the condition that lets bacteria and fungi persist and lets odor build, and the bedding doesn’t have to look dirty for this to be happening.”

So even though your crisp white sheets still look clean after nearly a week of sleeping under them, what’s infiltrated the sheets tells a different story.

To be clear, a heatwave won’t conjure dangerous new organisms overnight, says Dr. Knighton: “What the heat does is drive more sweat and trap more moisture, and moisture is the thing most microbes need to survive.”

The washing temperature that actually kills dust mites and more

Now that we know ‘sun washing’ draws out moisture, but doesn’t sanitize, it’s time to look at what will: your washing machine.

A standard wash cycle won’t cut it during a summer heatwave (or during any other time of year) — especially if you suffer from allergies or asthma.

“For temperature, use the warmest water the fabric can safely tolerate,” Dr. Knighton advises. “The benchmark most allergy guidance uses for dust mites is 130°F / 54.4°C.

“One study found that washing at 140°F / 60°C killed all dust mites, while a warm wash at 104°F / 40°C killed only about six per cent of them.”

While dropping your laundry down to a cool or warm cycle protects the fabric and saves energy, from an infection prevention standpoint, the hotter the wash the better.

Check your bedding’s care labels to ensure it will withstand a hotter wash. And if you have asthma, allergies, or a chronic health condition, consider swapping to pillows, comforters and bedding that can be safely washed at 130°F / 54.4°C.

"Hospital laundry runs hotter and longer than that, but that is validated industrial processing, not something a household needs or should try to copy,” Dr Knighton explains.

“The practical message is simple: wash often, use detergent, use the warmest safe setting, and dry the item all the way through."

How often you should wash pillows and bedding in summer vs a heatwave

A weekly bed sheets wash is common in most homes, but according to Dr. Knighton you might need to clean them more often during a heatwave.

During extreme summer heat your body is working overtime to cool itself down at night (heat spikes can cause 3 a.m. wake-ups and other middle insomnia issues).

As a result, sweat, facial skin oils, dead skin and more all seep down into your pillows and bedding at an accelerated rate.

Dr. Knighton recommends stepping up your laundry schedule significantly if you match any of the following criteria:

• You sweat heavily during the night or experience night sweats.
• You prefer to shower in the morning and go to bed with daytime skin buildup.
• You have oily, acne-prone skin, eczema, or environmental allergies.
• You share your bed with dogs, cats, or other pets.
• You work a high-exposure job (such as healthcare, childcare, sanitation, or repair work) where you actively carry the day's grime home with you.

Here, Dr. Knighton breaks down exactly how often you should machine wash different types of bedding during hot weather to keep the microbial load under control:

Bed sheets and pillowcases: Once a week (minimum)

You should wash these at least once a week in hot weather, but "more often for a lot of people," says Dr. Knighton.

Duvet covers: Every one to two weeks

To combat fungi, dust mites, allergens and more, you should hot wash your duvet cover once a week during summer – more if you don’t shower before sleep then sweat in bed.

Using a top flat sheet as a barrier between you and the duvet cover buys you a bit more time – up to two weeks, but check your cover for odors.

Pillows and comforters: Every three months (or sooner)

Always follow the care label on your pillow or comforter, but generally you should be washing them every few months. However, in a heatwave you need to wash them immediately if they are damp with moisture, stained, musty, or visibly soiled.

“A tidy bed should not outweigh a dry bed,” says Dr. Knighton.

By using ‘sun-washing’ to reduce daily moisture build-up between washing your pillows and bedding on as safe a hot wash as they can handle, you’ll get the microbial load under control and enjoy much cleaner sleep in the hot summer months.

The Graphite Memory Foam Mattress Topper is Saatva's most popular bed topper, but I'm sorry to say the brand never discounts any of its mattress topper collection (not even for Black Friday).

However, there is a cheaper bed topper from the luxury brand that I recommend, even at full price. Right now, you can buy a High-Density Foam Mattress Topper for as low as $175 at Saatva — bringing a slice of the luxury comfort of 2025's best mattress for up to $70 cheaper than the Graphite model.

The High-Density Foam Topper is my top luxury choice in this year's best mattress topper guide, with a queen High-Density Foam Mattress Topper sold at $245 (a queen-sized Graphite Memory Foam Topper is $50 more at $295) even without any Saatva Black Friday deals.

So, although it's not including among the this year's top Black Friday mattress deals (boo), I'd still buy now despite there being plenty of Black Friday mattress topper sales this year — here's why.

Why I’d buy Saatva's most affordable mattress topper

The best Saatva mattresses are renowned for their luxurious, premium construction, with the flagship Saaatva Classic winning the title of the best hybrid mattress of the year.

However, if its hand-crafted mattresses are outside your budget, the cheapest way to get the brand's signature support and comfort is the Saatva High-Density Mattress Topper. Plus, it's price (from $175) never changes, so buying it now won't mean you'll miss out on any surprise discounts closer to Black Friday.

Our Saatva High-Density Foam Mattress Topper review named it the best luxury mattress topper, bringing the cushioning comfort of our favorites in the best memory foam mattress topper guide, and commended how it offers an affordable way to experience Saatva's signature luxury.

It's also one of the best mattress toppers or college dorms, as its dense but short 1.5" height makes it ideal for bunk beds while the antimicrobial materials make it ideal for adding an hygienic top layer to old, grubby dorm beds.

Who should buy the best-selling Saatva Graphite Memory Foam Mattress Topper?

While we awarded the High-Density Mattress Topper the same score as we gave in the Saatva Graphite mattress topper review, there are some people who should consider paying the extra $40+ for the Graphite.

Firstly, the Graphite Mattress Topper costs more due to the thicker build and graphite infusion. Its 3" build makes it perfect for boosting the comfort of thinner mattresses, while its graphite-infused foam works in tandem with the breathable organic cotton cover to provides extra cooling powers for hot sleepers.

We also recommend the Graphite Memory Foam Mattress Topper to anyone who needs extra support in the lumbar region, especially back sleepers.

Why are there no Black Friday deals on Saatva’s mattress toppers?

Saatva consistently offer discounts (which vary in size) but you can forget seeing a price drop on anything from their mattress topper collection.

While plenty of brands are including in their mattress toppers in their Black Friday sales, including the Helix Black Friday mattress deals, Saatva never seem to.

However, this does mean you'll never have to worry about timing your purchase right, as buying now means you won't miss out on a lower price nearer Black Friday.

Plus, no matter when you buy, you'll get a 180-night sleep trial (practically unheard of for mattress toppers, as most have 30-night sleep trials) a one-year warranty (could be longer as the average is around 3-5 years, but we're not complaining) and free shipping.

While mattress toppers typically consist of a single layer of foam, we're now seeing plenty of innovations being made to these bed boosters — from pillow-top designs to high-tech cooling covers.

And now there's new material that's recently taken the mattress topper by storm: the microcoil.

You can find microcoils in toppers from some of the most popular sleep brands in the US, Saatva and Helix included, and they're all vying for a place in our guide to 2025's best mattress toppers.

But what are microcoils and why are they appearing in so many mattress toppers (and even in some of this year's top mattresses) these days?

Here, we'll take a look at these innovative components, their pros and cons, and where you can buy a bed topper or mattress that uses microcoils in this month's mattress sales.

What are microcoils?

Microcoils are small coils typically made from steel. They are like regular mattress coils, only shorter and typically used in mattress toppers, which are much thinner than mattresses and need smaller components.

While mattress coils are around six inches tall on average, microcoils are usually around one inch (or even less) in height. Mattress toppers that use microcoils typically have two or three layers, and they use the tier of microcoils as a middle layer in triple-layered toppers or as a base layer in dual-layered toppers.

Why are microcoils used in mattress toppers?

Mattress coils in general have a lot of benefits. Their open design enables airflow for breathable comfort, while their durable steel build provides zoned support.

However, as they're usually six inches or more in height, coils haven't always been used in bed toppers as these mattress enhancers are thin (usually around two to four inches) so aren't tall enough to contain full size coils.

And that's where microcoils come in, to bring the benefits of coils without the height and finally allowing mattress toppers to utilize the humble coil's supportive pressure relief.

Are microcoils used in mattresses?

While microcoils are mostly used in bed toppers due to their small height, they can also be used in mattresses in conjunction with larger coils. The addition of a microcoil layer can enhance both the comfort and support you'll get from a top-quality hybrid mattress.

For instance, the Saatva RX mattress (which is currently #1 in our best mattress for back pain guide) uses a one-inch microcoil layer for flexibility and enhanced back support.

Where can you buy a microcoil mattress topper?

Microcoil mattress toppers are available at many top mattress brands. They're particularly prominent at 3Z Brands (parent company of Helix, Nolah, and Brooklyn Bedding), which manufactures its own microcoils at its factory in Arizona.

Saatva also utilizes the benefits of the microcoil, with its Micro-Coil Mattress Topper featuring a one-inch recycled steel microcoil layer.

The pros and cons of microcoils

Before shopping for a microcoil mattress topper, it's good to acknowledge both the pros and cons first. Weighing their benefits and drawbacks will help you to know how to choose the right mattress topper for your budget, sleep position, and body type, so here's a breakdown...

What are the benefits of microcoils?

Minimal height isn't the only unique selling point that microcoils have. They're also more flexible and responsive than traditional mattress coils, which is why they're also used in mattresses as well as bed toppers. Like most coils, they can boost air circulation for a cooler sleep and are often used in toppers that are billed as cooling.

They also function as a transition layer between comfort and support layers, and can also provide zoned support (this means that it provides extra support in regions that need it, such as the lower back, to prevent aches and pains) and body-cradling comfort.

What are the drawbacks of microcoils?

A microcoils are a recent, premium innovation in the world of mattress toppers, they're mainly found in mattress toppers with a luxury price tag. That means microcoil mattress toppers are generally more expensive than toppers with more traditional fills such as memory foam or latex.

Plus, as with all coils, microcoils are not immune to deterioration from everyday wear and tear, which can cause creaking and shorten the mattress topper's lifespan.

It's been over 20 years since the mattress-in-a-box revolutionized the sleep industry and made buying a new bed online easier and more affordable.

As a mattress tester, I can certainly see the benefits of a bed-in-a-box (fast and convenient shipping being just one of them), but there is a certain downside: having to wait for the mattress to expand before sleeping on it.

However, I will admit that this waiting game made me a lot more creative with my temporary sleep solutions. From airbeds to Japanese floor mattresses, there are plenty of things you can use to turn your floor into a sleep space while you wait for your mattress to expand. But can our favorite mattress toppers ever be used as an actual mattress?

I decided to use the expanding time of my new memory foam mattress as an opportunity to find out. After placing a mattress topper on the floor as a makeshift bed, I want you to know these five things before you do the same...

• Read more: Japanese floor mattress vs topper: which made the right temporary bed for me?

The mattress topper I used as a mattress

Many of the mattresses you'll find in the 2025 best mattress guide come shipped in a box. The best mattresses in a box are convenient and reasonably priced, but do require you to wait until they're fully expanded before you can sleep on them.

The mattress topper I decided to use while I waited for my EGOHOME memory foam mattress to expand was the Panda Bamboo 2" Memory Foam Mattress Topper in a twin size.

The memory foam mattress topper features a 2" inch layer of cooling gel-infused memory foam wrapped in a removable, machine-washable cover. It also has a silicone anti-slip base.

Was it a good idea to use a bed topper as a mattress?

In short, yes. The 2" layer of memory foam was thick enough to contour to my key pressure points when side sleeping (especially in the shoulders and hips) but the hard floor below provided enough firmness to keep me supported when sleeping on my back.

I didn't struggle to sleep on the mattress topper at all, falling asleep in the same amount of time as I fall asleep in my actual bed. It also saved me from digging out the airbed or Japanese floor mattress. Overall, the mattress topper on the floor made a great and easy makeshift bed.

5 things I want you to know about using a bed topper as a mattress

While the mattress topper on the floor made a quick and easy bed, there are a few things you should know if you plan on using your own bed topper as a mattress...

1. Make sure it's only temporary

If you're going to use a bed topper as a mattress, it's important to only do so on a short-term basis. Why? Well, mattress toppers should only be used to top mattresses (hence, the name) for additional comfort and support.

Anything under the minimum mattress thickness of 8"-10" will not provide enough long-term support, which means the typical mattress topper thickness of under 4" does not have the required depth.

2. Use the correct bedding

Most mattress toppers have covers, but not all of them are washable or removable. So, for good sleep hygiene, it's best to cover them with a sheet if you're sleeping on them. A fitted sheet or flat sheet are both fine, and they don't need to be deep, either.

Also, don't forget the pillow and blanket, duvet or comforter. If you're sleeping on a hard floor, such as kitchen or bathroom tiles, you'll likely be cooler, so you may want to bring an extra blanket just in case.

3. Choose a memory foam mattress topper

There are many types of mattress toppers, so it's important to know how to choose the right mattress topper for you.

I recommend avoiding mattress pads, down and feather mattress toppers, and microfiber mattress toppers; they can be unsupportive and uncomfortable. Latex mattress toppers are supportive, eco-friendly, breathable, and hypoallergenic. However, they are very expensive, so you may not want to place one on the floor.

You can't go wrong with a memory foam topper, though. The dense foam provides enough thickness for a soft but supportive sleep surface, especially if you choose the best memory foam mattress topper for you.

4. Choose the right size and thickness

Most memory foam mattress toppers are 2" to 4" in height, which is generally thick enough to make any hard surface soft and comfortable. Any thinner and you're likely to be able to feel the floor beneath the topper, so make sure the mattress topper you pick is at least 2" tall.

Then we have size. If you have a queen-size mattress topper for your queen-sized bed, you'll understandably want to use it instead of buying a twin-size topper. Likewise, if you're purchasing a topper as a temporary alternative to a mattress, it makes sense to buy one to match the dimensions of your actual mattress. However, if you have limited floor space, are sleeping solo, and have the budget, you may want to consider a smaller topper size.

5. Choose the right space

You'll also need to think about where you'll be placing your mattress topper. Both carpeted or hard floors are fine, but bear in mind that carpeted floors prevent ventilation and may make your mattress topper feel warm and stuffy, particularly if you're prone to overheating at night.

Make sure the floor space is tidy, clean, and vacuumed to prevent any allergy triggers. Likewise, make sure the room is the right temperature for sleep and that there's not too much light coming through its windows.

Bamboo has become increasingly popular in recent years, and a bamboo mattress topper is just one of the ways this trendy material is taking over our bedrooms. But what are bamboo mattress toppers, and are they actually worth buying?

Most of our top picks in our best mattress toppers guide are either made from memory foam or latex foam, as they can be a great cost-effective alternative to buying this year's best mattress. While these materials offer comfort, support, and breathability, bamboo mattress toppers promise to offer those things, too.

So, are bamboo mattress toppers worth buying? Or should you look for a memory foam or latex topper instead in this month's mattress sales? Let's take a look...

What is a bamboo mattress topper?

Bamboo mattress toppers are mattress toppers that use fabric derived from the bamboo plant.

The bamboo textile is either made by chemically turning the plant into rayon or by mechanically spinning bamboo pulp into a linen-like yarn. The latter is the more eco-friendly process.

There are two types of bamboo mattress topper:

1. Bamboo foam mattress toppers: These mattress toppers have a main body made up of memory foam (or latex foam) with either a bamboo cover or bamboo quilted pillow top.
2. Bamboo mattress pads: These mattress toppers aren't really toppers, as they are too thin and unsupportive. They tend to be much cheaper than bamboo foam mattress toppers, and usually have a main body of down alternative fill.

What are the main benefits of a bamboo mattress topper?

The main benefit of bamboo is the refreshing night's sleep it can offer. The fabric encourages airflow and regulates temperature, plus it's moisture-wicking and can draw moisture away from the body, so it's a particularly good choice for hot sleepers or those who experience frequent night sweats, and

Another benefit is that bamboo is great for maintaining a clean sleep space, as bamboo is antimicrobial and hypoallergenic.

Plus, depending on its manufacturing process, bamboo can be sustainable and eco-friendly as bamboo is a natural and sustainable resources.

Bamboo is often used as a breathable cover for memory foam mattress toppers, so the memory foam provides comfort and support while the bamboo provides a clean, breathable sleep surface.

For instance, you can now get a queen-size Panda Bamboo 2" Memory Foam Mattress Topper at Walmart, which has an open-cell memory foam body paired with an soft eco-friendly bamboo cover. You can read more about the topper in our Panda Bamboo Memory Foam Mattress Topper review.

You can also find dual-layer bamboo mattress toppers, such as the SPRINGSPIRIT Bamboo Dual Layer Mattress Topper at Amazon, which features a soft and supportive memory foam base and a bamboo pillow top for a plush breathable surface.

What are the drawbacks of a bamboo mattress topper?

While bamboo memory foam mattress toppers offer the support and comfort of dense foams and the breathability of bamboo, many bamboo mattress toppers are actually bamboo mattress pads.

While we go into depth about the main differences between the two in our mattress pad vs mattress topper comparison guide, we basically don't recommend buying a mattress pad as they are too thin and unsupportive to change the firmness or softness of your bed.

There's a lot of signs that a bed topper is actually a mattress pad, but look out for the following if you want to to avoid buying a bamboo mattress pad:

1. It costs less than a $100 for a queen
2. It is completely machine-washable, not just the cover
3. It has down-alternative or microfiber fill

Should you buy a bamboo mattress topper?

Buy a bamboo mattress topper if...

✅ It's cover is made from bamboo: Bamboo is naturally cooling, moisture-wicking, and hypoallergenic — perfect if you need a clean, cooling surface to fight off allergies and night sweats.

✅ It contains foam: The support and comfort of memory foam or latex foam complements the refreshing temperature-regulation of bamboo.

✅ It's 2" tall or over: Anything 2" or taller will provide an ample amount of support and significantly change the feel of your bed.

Don't buy a bamboo mattress topper if...

❌ If it has down alternative or microfiber fill: Down alternative or microfiber bamboo mattress toppers are simply mattress pads, which have a short lifespan and won't provide enough support.

❌It contains no foam: Memory foam and latex foam give mattress toppers a boost of support and comfort. Without it, bamboo mattress toppers won't make a lot of difference to your mattress' feel.

❌ It's thinner than 2": The ideal bamboo mattress topper thickness is over 2", as anything thinner won't make much of a difference.

As a sleep writer, I've tried plenty of mattress toppers — so I know that these little comfort boosters really can make huge difference to both your bed and your sleep.

They're also cost-effective, saving you from splurging on a new mattress by refreshing your current one.

However, while many of the top picks in our best mattress toppers guide are available to buy at Amazon, I've recently noticed that many cheap mattress toppers on Amazon are actually mattress pads. But why exactly is this a problem?

There are actually huge differences between mattress toppers and mattress pads, and this difference could cost you the right comfort and support.

Here's a breakdown of why mattress pads aren't worth buying, and how you can avoid mistaking one for a bed topper in this month's mattress sales.

What's the difference between a mattress pad and mattress topper?

So, what's the difference between a mattress pad vs mattress topper?

A mattress topper is a layer of padding that you place on top (hence the name "topper") of your mattress to adjust your bed's feel.

They resemble a thin mattress and often have removable or non-removable covers to encase the padding. The covers are usually made from soft, breathable material such as cotton or wool, while the padding is typically made from foam.

Memory foam toppers are the most popular, but you can also find mattress toppers filled with latex foam or even micro-coils (small flexible mattress springs).

Mattress toppers come in all heights and sizes, but most are 2" to 4" thick. These heights are thick enough to change the firmness of your bed but thin enough to keep your bed from becoming too tall.

Meanwhile, a mattress pad is more like a thin pillow that's big enough to cover your bed's surface. They are thinner than mattress toppers, and often resemble a quilted mattress protector or a quilted bed sheet.

They also often have a fitted design, with the cover made from cotton and the filling made from microfiber or down-alternative feathers.

Why you should avoid buying a mattress pad

Not too long ago, I bought a microfiber bed topper to soften up a firm mattress — or so I thought.

After placing the budget bed topper on my hard spring mattress in hopes of making it plusher, I quickly realised it was actually a mattress pad masquerading as a dirt-cheap mattress topper.

The thin down-alternative pad was too thin to make any difference to my too-firm bed. It provided no pressure-relief or softness and felt like a flat, de-fluffed pillow that had lost all its puffiness and support.

In short, the only thing it seemed good for was adding an extra layer of protection for my mattress.

Mattress toppers, meanwhile, are built to completely alter your bed's firmness and feel. For example, some mattress toppers are designed to make your bed firmer, but the majority are designed to make your bed softer.

There are also mattress toppers that are designed to cool down your bed as well as adjust its firmness.

The 5 signs that a mattress topper is actually a mattress pad

1. It's thinner than 2 inches

While many mattress pads boast "deep pocket" fitted sheet designs that can cover tall mattresses, they aren't deep where it counts: your bed's surface.

The majority of mattress pads have a quilted pillow top that measures under two inches.

Anything under two inches is much too thin to make any change to your mattress's firmness or support, and you'll often still feel the hardness of your mattress underneath.

2. It's filled with microfiber or down alternative

While a design stuffed with soft, fluffy feathers may evoke the luxuriousness of a five-star hotel bed, they're not going to make a difference to your tired mattress.

Mattress pads are often labelled microfiber, synthetic-filled, hollow fiber, or down alternative mattress toppers.

However, these materials aren't dense or pressure-relieving enough to add support or body-contouring comfort.

Plus, they don't last as long as foam mattress toppers, as you'll need to replace them after one or two years when they lose their lustre.

3. It's machine-washable and dryer-safe

True mattress toppers will only have a removable, machine-washable cover or a non-removable cover that's spot clean only.

If the website says the entire topper is machine-washable and dryer-safe, however, you're likely looking at a mattress pad.

While it's true that mattress pads are easier to clean than mattress toppers, it's also a sign that they have less sophisticated designs and materials.

Actual mattress toppers are too thick to place in the washing machine and contain advanced materials (such as copper gel-infused foam or microcoils) that will become easily damaged in the washing machine.

4. It's foamless

Foam has now become the quintessential material in the mattress industry thanks to its excellent pressure relief.

You'll find body-cradling foam in the best memory foam mattresses, foam comfort layers in the best hybrid mattresses, and natural latex foam in the best organic mattresses — so, it's only natural that today's mattress toppers would follow suit.

In fact, if a mattress topper doesn't boast a foam design, then it's almost definitely a mattress pad.

5. It's got a fitted, quilted design

Last but not least, mattress pads (not all, but the majority) will have a quilted pillow top and a fitted sheet design.

While some high-quality mattress toppers do have skirted designs (check out our Puffy Deluxe Mattress Topper review) or a down-alternative pillow top (take a look at our Viscosoft Hybrid Lux Mattress Topper review), these toppers always contain a foam layer for support and comfort.

Our Tom's Guide sleep experts always recommend choosing the best mattress for your sleep style. But might the ERA smart mattress topper be the best choice for everyone's sleep type?

This adaptable, intelligent and responsive topper has been awarded the Innovation Award in the Digital Health Category at CES 2025. While most mattress toppers simply slip over your mattress to make the bed softer or more comfortable, the ERA Smart Layer promises "unrivaled comfort, enhanced health, and peak performance" — for every mattress.

Integrated smart technology isn't exactly new to the mattress market, but as a bed topper, the ERA Smart Layer can potentially turn even a simple innerspring mattress into your next health solution. That's a lot for just 3 1/25 inches of material...

What is the ERA Smart Layer?

At 3 1/25 inches thick, the ERA Smart Layer is of a similar thickness to the best mattress toppers. It sits on top of your existing mattress and should be thick enough that you don't really feel the bed beneath — especially once you consider all the technology packed into the Smart Layer.

For a start, the ERA Smart Layer features integrated BCG (ballistocardiogram) sensors to monitor and analyze breathing, alongside heart rate monitors. Cloud connectivity allows you to link the mattress topper with other IoT devices (so you should be able to connect it to your smart ring or fitness monitors).

This creates a picture of your health throughout the night, with AI algorithms suggesting sleep and lifestyle improvements the next morning. Via the ERA app, you'll receive detailed data analysis of your nocturnal movements, plus advice on how to sleep better.

As you sleep, the ERA Smart Layer uses active spinal alignment to keep you continually comfortable. Multiple configurable elements ensure the topper can self-adapt to your body shape, even if you move around.

So when you lie on the ERA mattress topper, you should feel it adjust to your sleep style. And not the usual sink-in effect of first climbing into bed. This is an active and adaptable movement to keep your spine cradled and relieve pressure build-up.

If a moving mattress doesn't immediately catch your eye, another soothing feature might have more appeal: "multizone relaxation elements". Ignore the dry, techy description — these are integrated massage zones.

And to top it all off, the ERA mattress topper includes active and passive thermal regulation. Temperature plays an important role in how well we sleep, and the ERA design allows you to take control over how snug you feel in bed.

• Read more: How to cure sleep apnea — doctors share ways to manage the disorder

How does the ERA Smart Layer compare to other smart mattresses?

Integrated smart tracking can be found in many of the best smart beds and mattresses, beyond the ERA Smart Layer. Tracking your sleep habits and provide feedback, these informative beds are a growing market — in a few years time you might find smart mattresses have replaced wearable sleep trackers.

Temperature control also isn't unheard of in a smart mattress, although it's not exactly common. The Eight Sleep Pod 4 system offers hands-on temperature control, as does the Sleep Number Climate360 mattress. Similarly, Sleep Number mattresses are known for their adaptable firmness levels, while the Bryte Balance Air Mattress adapts to your body to keep the spine cradled and supported.

However, it's rare to see all these features combined into one package, and even rarer for that package to measure just 3 1/25 inches tall. The ERA Smart Layer has the potential to transform any bed into "a powerful device for improving sleep and recovery". And as a relatively thin layer, it could even be transportable (for those who hate compromising their sleep with travel).

And we all know that sleep is vital to recovery, but with Cloud connectivity allowing you to hook up your mattress to your smartphone, it might be easier than ever to see just what an impact your sleep has on your wellbeing.

If you are struggling with insomnia or sleep deprivation, we advise speaking to your doctor for advise and solutions.

I've tested some of the highest-rated mattress toppers on the market, so I know how quickly and easily these underrated gems can transform your bed. Mattress toppers are also much cheaper than replacing your mattress, especially when they're frequently on sale. But with so many discounts to trawl through, it can be hard to know how to chose the right bed topper for your sleep.

This year's best mattresses can offer fantastic support and comfort for all sleepers, but investing in a new bed isn't always possible. Instead, the best mattress toppers are a cost-effective alternative if you don't have the budget for a new bed. That said, there are some premium bed toppers that cost more than budget and even mid-range mattresses, so price is important to consider when choosing a bed topper.

However, you shouldn't choose a mattress topper on price alone, as an ultra-cheap topper isn't always right for you or your bed. That's why I'm here to share my top tips for choosing bed toppers, covering everything from identifying stand-out price drops to picking topper material and height.

What is a mattress topper? 

Before I share my best advice for choosing a mattress topper, let's cover the basics. A mattress topper is a thick, cushioning mat that is placed on top of a mattress's surface to adjust the way it feels. Depending on the type, a mattress topper can make a bed softer, firmer, cooler, or even cleaner.

Mattress toppers are often confused with mattress pads (and vice versa), but the two are completely different. While mattress pads are thin (usually around one inch high) and only provide an extra layer of quilted mattress protection, mattress toppers are usually two to four inches thick and alter the feel of your mattress while adding mattress protection simultaneously. So, if you're debating whether to buy a mattress pad vs mattress topper, the mattress topper wins if you actually want to make a significant difference to your bed.

Types of mattress toppers

Mattress toppers are available in many different materials and designs. Some toppers are even designed for a specific se, such as the the best mattress toppers for college dorm beds. Before I share my tips for choosing a mattress topper, here's a quick look at the most popular types:

1. Memory foam

This is undoubtedly the most popular type of mattress topper, and the kind that features most frequently in our guides to the best mattress toppers. Like the best memory foam mattresses, memory foam mattress toppers have an all-foam design that aims to provide a body-contouring hug for a plush or medium-firm feel.

This material will have a slow-moving, sink-in feel. They can be a great addition to beds that are too firm if you want to add some extra pressure relief.

2. Latex

The most eco-friendly and durable type of mattress topper, a latex bed topper, is made from natural latex foam. Latex mattress toppers tend to be made of Talalay latex rather than Dunlop latex (for more information on the difference, read our Dunlop vs Talalay latex guide), but either way, these hypoallergenic mattress toppers will provide a non-toxic, natural, and breathable sleep.

Latex has a different feel to memory foam, offering a more bouncy surface. Perfect for those who don't like the hugging sensation of memory foam.

3. Cooling gel 

Cooling gel mattress toppers are a subtype of the memory foam topper. They are basically memory foam or all-foam mattress toppers that have been infused with heat-dissipating polymer gel. Sometimes, copper or graphite is added to the gel for extra temperature regulation and their antibacterial properties.

We'll often see this material incorporated into the best cooling mattresses. If you find your bed too hot, adding a cooling topper might be enough to help you regulate your temperature.

4. Down

I'll go in to more detail on this kind of topper later (if you want to even call it a topper), but these cheap bed toppers are quilted and filled with synthetic material.

They are also called microfiber, synthetic-filled, hollow fiber, or down alternative toppers, and feel more like a thin, bed-size pillow, rather than an extra layer of mattress.

5. Hybrid 

Hybrid mattress toppers, like the best hybrid mattresses, combines two different topper materials to provide the benefits of both.

For example, you can get a hybrid mattress topper that has a thick foam base combined with down-alternative pillow top. Meanwhile, a new kind of hybrid mattress topper is the microcoil topper, which uses both foam and small, flexible coils to give a balance of comfort and support.

How to choose a mattress topper in 5 easy steps

1. Figure out what you and your bed needs  

When choosing a mattress topper, the first thing to ask yourself is, "Why do I want to change or improve my bed?". Does your mattress feel too hard when you sleep on your side? Is it too soft and unsupportive, leading you to wake up with lower back pain? Is it starting to sag? Does it trap body heat to the point that you're waking up at night feeling hot and sweaty?

Whatever your issue is, use it as a starting point for choosing a mattress topper. After all, a mattress topper's main function is to improve a bed's drawbacks. Once you have figured out where your mattress is failing, jot down the following things:

• Your preferred sleep position(s)
• Your body type
• How old your mattress is
• Your budget

First of all, mattress toppers save you from splurging on a new mattress, so you'll need to find one that will suit your budget. I always reccomend buying the best that your money can buy as your sleep is one of the most important things to invest in.

Sleep position is important to consider when picking a mattress topper as different sleep styles need different firmness levels. For example, side sleepers need something soft and cushioning to relieve the pressure points (the body parts that come in contact with the mattress) in their shoulders, knees, and hips. Meanwhile, back and front sleepers need something firmer to keep their hips and lumbar region upright and prevent lower back pain.

If you like to sleep in two or more positions, choose a mattress topper based on your dominant position, or look for a medium-firm topper

Here's a quick guide to what each sleeper style needs:

As for body type, heavier bodies will need a firmer mattress topper while lighter bodies will need something softer. Here's what each weight category should look for when choosing a topper:

And then there's the matter of how old your mattress is. First of all, if your mattress is over 10 years old (and isn't made from durable latex), then it's most likely that you should look for a new mattress ASAP instead of a bed topper. However, if you're saving up for a new mattress and need a stopgap in the meantime, then choose one of the best cheap mattress toppers instead.

2. Choose a material 

There are four main type of mattress topper material: memory foam, latex, wool, and down alternative.

Let me just say right off the bat, do not choose a down mattress topper. A down mattress topper (also known as a down alternative topper, a microfiber topper, a feather topper, or a pillow top mattress cover) are too thin to make any difference to a mattress and are nothing more than mattress pads that need to be replaced after a year or two.

So, while retailers such as Amazon may be full to the brim with ridiculously cheap deals on down-alternative toppers, they're not worth it. How do I know? I bought a microfiber bed topper to soften up a firm mattress and it was a huge mistake as it didn't provide any pressure relief.

So that leaves us with latex, memory foam, and wool. Here's a rundown of the pros and cons of each material:

Of course, you won't find all the pros and cons of each material in every mattress topper of that type. In fact, some have designs to counteract the material's drawbacks.

For example, while memory foam may trap heat, the best memory foam mattress toppers are equipped with cooling features such as copper-infused foam and a perforated design to boost airflow. You can also get hybrid mattress toppers, which feature both memory foam and microcoils (small, flexible springs) to boost all-foam topper's support and breathability.

• Read more: 5 signs that a bed topper is actually a mattress pad — and why that’s a problem

3. Pick the right thickness

So, you've picked the topper material for your sleep need, but the material you choose won't matter unless you pick the right height. How thick your mattress topper is can completely change the amount of comfort and support it offers, so choose the topper's depth based on what you and your bed needs.

Most mattress toppers are around two to four inches tall, and we don't reccomend going any higher or lower than that. Over four inches will make your bed too squidgy, while anything thinner will make no difference to your bed at all.

While we go into more detail about mattress topper height in our guide to how thick a mattress topper should be, here's a quick breakdown of the most common mattress topper thickness levels and what bed and sleep position they are best for:

Of course, there are exceptions. For example, our Saatva Foam Mattress Topper review praised the comfort and pressure relief of the High-Density Foam Mattress Topper from Saatva — despite its 1.5" depth — as it uses high-density foam.

4. Look for specialist features  

Many mattress toppers are not only designed to change the firmness of a mattress, but are also designed to fix a certain issue.

The biggest issue that mattress topper designs aim to fix is overheating. Many people experience night sweats or overheating while in bed, which can be due to a range of factors including living in a hot climate or entering the menopause, and this can exacerbated by a mattress that traps heat.

To help ameliorate this issue, many foam toppers are perforated for increased air circulation or infused with cooling gel, copper, or graphite to dissipate heat. Other toppers are made of naturally breathable materials, such as latex or wool, and many come with breathable and moisture-wicking covers.

Meanwhile, restless sleepers can stop their mattress topper from shifting by selecting a bed topper with anchor straps or anti-slip base, and select a mattress topper with good motion isolation if you don't want your partner to be woken up by your tossing and turning.

Allergy sufferers may benefit from a bed topper with a removable and machine-washable cover, a hypoallergenic latex topper, or a mattress topper that's been coated with an antimicrobial treatment to inhibit the growth of bacteria, mold, and mildew.

5. Compare price, deals, and benefits. 

Some mattress toppers are never on sale but finally get reduced for holidays such as Memorial Day, Presidents' Day, and Labor Day, while others are always on sale but see a bigger price drop during sales periods such as Cyber Monday. One of my pet peeves are mattress topper deals that are disguised as exclusive Cyber Monday sales but are actually just the standard sale with the banner or promo code changed to reflect Presidents' Day, Cyber Monday etc.

To track mattress topper prices, I tend to use Camel, Camel, Camel and Wayback Machine, plus our very own mattress deals hub. You can also find our mattress sales hubs for individual brands, such as our Saatva mattress sales, Helix mattress sales, and Tempur-Pedic mattress sales.

If you see a mattress topper that you think is perfect for your sleep needs, check to see whether it's being sold at a cheaper price by the brand or another retailer, such as Amazon. (If you're buying from Amazon, please read our guide on how to spot fake reviews.)

Also, check to see what benefits are included with your mattress topper order. Many brands offer warranties, free shipping and returns, and sleep trials with their mattress toppers, which you may not receive if you don't buy the topper directly from the brand's website.

Sometimes, you can get a better discount when buying from a third-party retailer, but you get better benefits if you buy from the brand. Weigh up your options to decide which is more important to you: a cheaper price or the opportunity to try out your topper for a few weeks (or sometimes even months) before deciding if you want to return or not.

What type of mattress topper is best?

The Tempur-Adapt Topper received a high amount of praise in our Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt topper review, and currently ranks No 1 in our best mattress toppers guide thanks to its plush, luxury feel that can soften hard mattresses and soothe joint pain, along with being a great alternative to the best mattress for side sleepers.

Memory foam tends to be the most popular material for mattress toppers because it can soften hard mattresses and are more affordable compared to latex and wool toppers, as well as providing more pressure relief, too.

Remember, a mattress topper that's right for you should be suitable for your sleep position, body type, and budget, along with the ability to help improve any sleep issues you face. To select a mattress topper that meets these needs, you need to choose a topper with the correct height, material, price and deals, design, and firmness.

If you're still unsure, then make sure you choose a topper with a long sleep trial so you can find out if it's the right choice for you risk free.

How to choose a mattress topper: FAQs

How much should I spend on a good mattress topper? 

Unless you want the crème de la crème of mattress toppers, you shouldn't have to spend anymore than $500 on a queen-size topper. Many latex mattress toppers are expensive and over $500 for a queen, which is why we always suggest buying premium mattress toppers during sales events.

Here's a look at the typical price of different types of mattress toppers:

When is the best time to buy a mattress topper?

Some of the best times to buy a mattress topper is during any major holiday sales event, including the Labor Day sales (early September), Presidents' Day sales (February) and Memorial Day sales (late May). However, the best time of year to buy a mattress topper overall is the Black Friday and Cyber Monday mattress sales.

It's important to note that the rock-bottom prices that Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals offer can lead to backorders and shipping delays, so make sure to check the shipping times and viability if you need a mattress topper delivered as soon as possible.

How long do mattress toppers last?

While the quality of a mattress topper (along with how well it's treated) can determine its lifespan, the main thing that influences its life expectancy is its material. Here's a chart to show how long you can expect each type of mattress topper to last for:

How can I extend the life of a mattress topper?

If you want to make sure your mattress topper lasts, then take care of it by making sure it's clean. You can read our guide on how to clean a mattress topper in five easy steps. Also be sure to check if the cover is removable and machine-washable or non-removable and spot-clean only. Remember to store your mattress topper correctly if you need to transport it or store it away when not in use by reading our guide on how to store a memory foam mattress topper.

You can also increase the lifespan of mattress topper by rotating it every six months. Just rotate it 180 degrees so the part where you rest your head is now at the foot of the bed.

When should you get a new mattress instead of a bed topper? 

If you're debating whether to buy a mattress vs mattress topper, I reccomend going for a mattress instead of a bed topper if your bed is over 10 years old, is badly damaged to the point where it's unsupportive, and/or is sagging and has a dip that's over two inches deep. Also unclean mattresses that are infested with mold, mildew and significant stains should be replaced as they may cause or exacerbate allergies.

As a sleep writer, I know that investing in a mattress topper is a great, cost-effective way to transform your sleep set-up without buying a new bed. Plus, with Black Friday fast approaching, now is the best time to buy a mattress topper. But how can you find a good mattress topper deal this Black Friday?

If your current mattress is in need of a makeover, but you're not ready to swap it for one of this year's best mattresses for all sleepers, then one of the best mattress toppers might be a better option for you. However, choosing the wrong mattress topper for your bed and your sleep will leave your mattress feeling exactly the same — or potentially even worse.

This is where I come in. I'm a mattress topper expert and I've rounded up my five best tips for finding a good deal in this year's Black Friday mattress topper sales. From picking the right thickness to shopping around, here's my advice for anyone scouring the Black Friday mattress deals for a good mattress topper...

• Read more: I’m a Black Friday mattress deals expert — what I recommend buying this year

Today's best mattress topper sales

• ViscoSoft Active Cooling Mattress Topper: save 25% at ViscoSoft
• Sleepyhead Cooling Copper Mattress Topper: save up to $167.6 at Amazon
• Casper Comfy Mattress Topper: Save up to $102 at Casper
• Lucid Gel Memory Foam Topper: Save up to $22.50 at Lucid Mattress
• Pro Topper: Save up to $198 with code TOMS40 at Bear Mattress
• Puffy Deluxe Mattress Topper: Save up to $46 at Puffy
• Birch Plush Organic Mattress Topper: up to $176.04 with code TOMS27 at Birch Living
• Helix GlacioTex Premium Mattress Topper: Save up to $151.56 with code TOMS27 at Helix Sleep

1. Choose the right depth

Here's my golden rule when shopping for a mattress topper in this month's mattress sales: never choose a topper less than two inches thick. Any mattress topper thinner than two inches will make little difference to your bed, as it's not thick enough to add support or comfort.

And yes, that means you should avoid buying those cheap down-alternative and microfiber mattress toppers from Amazon. Trust me, I bought a microfiber bed topper to soften up a firm mattress and it was a huge mistake.

I'd also recommend avoiding a mattress topper that's over four inches thick, as these can be a little too squidgy. If you want to find a mattress topper that's the right height for you and your mattress, visit our guide on how thick a mattress topper should be.

• Read more: Want to put a mattress topper on memory foam? Latex is the answer — here's the Black Friday deal I recommend
• Read more: Tom's Guide Sleep Awards 2025: Best Mattress Topper
• Read more: Tom's Guide Sleep Awards 2025: All the winners

2. Don't be swayed by price alone

When hunting for a mattress topper (especially on Amazon), you'll likely become entranced by the low prices. After all, the whole point of a mattress topper is to rescue your mattress and save money. But you know the old adage: "buy cheap, buy twice".

Prioritizing price over feel and support will likely result in having to buy again. For example, there's no point buying an ultra-soft mattress topper just because it's cheap if your mattress actually needs firmer support.

Instead, look for a mattress topper that is suitable for your body type, sleep position, sleep conditions, and current mattress. If you don't know what mattress topper will suit your sleep position and body type, read our best mattress toppers buying advice.

3. Compare prices and benefits

When browsing Amazon, you can sometimes find low prices on toppers from big name brands. You might even find better prices than you'd get shopping direct from the brands' website.

However, buying direct has its advantages, as you're more likely to get great benefits with your purchase, such as a warranty, sleep trial, and free shipping. With Amazon, on the other hand, you'll likely only get 30 days to return your bed topper — no official sleep trial.

Don't forget to compare prices, too. For example, price history trackers like CamelCamelCamel and Keepa allow you to see how much a mattress topper has sold for on Amazon in the past compared to the current deal. So you can see if it's actually a saving or the same price you'd normally pay.

4. Look for the right material

I strongly discourage you from buying a mattress topper made from down or down alternative, as these bed toppers are thin and only last one to two years max.

Memory foam is the most popular mattress topper material thanks to the way it adds body-cradling pressure relief to hard beds, and can last about five years. However, they can sleep warm and their 'hugging' properties may be too plush for some sleepers who need more support.

The best memory foam mattress toppers have different firmness options and are equipped with cooling features such as copper or gel infusions and perforated foam. Alternatively, you could try a latex mattress topper. Latex mattress toppers may be expensive, but they sleep incredibly cool, have hypoallergenic properties, and can last for around 10-15 years.

5. Read reviews

In our best mattress topper guide, all of our top picks have been tested and slept on so you can read our reviews for every single entry. You can also explore what customers have to say, including what they like and didn't like — beyond the star rating — and see if these pros and cons actually matter to you.

Also, check to see if these user reviews are verified or fake. If a deal seems to good to be true or the reviews seem overly positive, read our guide on how to spot fake reviews, to expose the tell-tale signs that a review is just a fake endorsement to boost a product's ranking.

The tagline for the new Viscosoft Hybrid Lux mattress topper is that it ‘turns plastic into plush’, with a cover that uses upcycled ocean plastic. Alongside this, the cover is also a cooling pillowtop designed to regulate temperature, combined with a layer of gel-infused memory foam. All this should provide plenty of comfort and support to sleepers.

Just like choosing the best mattresses for your sleep needs is essential for a comfortable bed, finding the right mattress topper can make a huge difference to your sleep. Mattress toppers come in a variety of styles and materials, with options to make your bed softer or firmer, or simply to add an extra layer of support.

At full price, the Viscosoft Hybrid Lux topper starts at $199.95, but Viscosoft is currently offering a twin topper for $139.95. This is a great deal for a high-quality topper but with the Black Friday mattress deals approaching at the end of November, you may want to hang on to see if prices drop further.

Viscosoft Hybrid Lux Mattress Topper: Price

The Viscosoft Hybrid Lux mattress topper may be a luxury topper, but we think the prices are quite reasonable for the quality of product you’ll get.

The topper is available both on Viscosoft’s own website and on Amazon, so you can pick between the two sites to see where it’s priced most cheaply. Here are the current sale and MSRP prices for the topper:

3" topper:

• Twin: $139.95 (MSRP $199.95)
• Twin XL: $149.95 (MSRP $214.95)
• Full: $179.95 (MSRP $239.95)
• Short Queen: $179.95 (MSRP $264.95)
• Queen: $189.95 (MSRP $254.95)
• King: $209.95 (MSRP $279.95)
• Cal King: $199.95 (MSRP $294.95)

4" topper:

• Twin: $169.95 (MSRP $224.95)
• Twin XL: $159.95 (MSRP $239.95)
• Full: $189.95 (MSRP $254.95)
• Short Queen: $189.95 (MSRP $299.95)
• Queen: $199.95 (MSRP $254.95)
• King: $229.95 (MSRP $304.95)
• Cal King: $229.95 (MSRP $334.95)

Amazon are currently offering the same sale prices, but there is a $30 off coupon available. You can also add code 7DV4TT26 from Viscosoft to add another 15% off. This means the topper is currently cheaper on Amazon but, with Black Friday sales coming up, prices may drop further.

You’ll also get a 90-day money back guarantee, with a full refund if you’re not satisfied with the topper. In addition, there’s a 5-year warranty and free shipping to your door.

• Read more: Brooklyn Bedding launch new advanced cooling mattress range — and it's already 30% off

Viscosoft Hybrid Lux Mattress Topper: Materials & Design

The Viscosoft Hybrid Lux mattress topper starts with a pillowtop Tencel cover that’s filled with over 380 GSM (grams per square meter) of ultra-soft fiberfill. A higher GSM simply means that there’s more fiber filling, which should give the topper a more luxurious feel.

The quilted cover is made from over five pounds of recycled ocean plastic, through the brand’s collaboration with Advansa’s Eco Origin Project. Tencel is both cooler and softer than cotton, meaning that the cover should also help to regulate body temperature and keep sleepers cool.

Underneath the cover is a layer of gel-infused CertiPUR-US memory foam to add support and contouring to your body shape. The gel infusion should assist the cooling properties of the cover.

The three inch topper has two inches of memory foam and a one inch pillowtop cover. The four inch topper ups each of these layers by half an inch. We also like the addition of elastic anchor straps to fasten the cover to the memory foam, along with a full-perimeter elastic skirt that provides a snug fit whatever size your bed is.

Viscosoft Hybrid Lux Mattress Topper: Comfort & Support

The Viscosoft Active Cooling mattress topper features in both our best mattress toppers and best memory foam mattress toppers guides, so we know the brand can produce high-quality products. How does the Hybrid Lux topper stack up in comparison? We haven’t yet tested the product, but customer reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with a 4.4 out of 5 star average.

The topper has a medium firmness that should provide a good combination of both support and comfort. It’s designed to minimize pressure points with the slightly firmer memory foam, while the plush pillowtop cover will contour around your body to provide a layer of softness.

The topper could also be a great investment if you share your bed with a restless sleeper as it will do a good job of minimizing motion transfer.

Viscosoft Hybrid Lux Mattress Topper: Temperature regulation

Tencel is a naturally breathable fabric, so the cover of this Viscosoft topper should help to promote airflow and keep sleepers comfortable at night.

Memory foam is notorious for trapping heat – but this topper has gel-infused memory foam, designed to disperse heat easily. However, there is some debate about how effective this is.

If you’re a hot sleeper, I’d recommend considering the Viscosoft Active Cooling mattress topper instead, or even investing in one of the best cooling mattresses.

Mattress toppers can almost be described as mini mattresses. These helpful additions to your bed commonly add around two to four inches of thick material, designed to subtly change the feel of your mattress, or simply add more comfort. In this guide, we’re looking at hybrid vs latex mattress toppers to see if either of these styles will suit your sleep requirements.

Many of the year’s best mattresses, which include top-rated recommendations for all types of sleepers and budgets, are hybrids in their construction or contain latex in their layers. Sometimes both. So translating these designs and materials across to the best mattress toppers makes a lot of sense. Traditionally, most mattress toppers have just been made from solid foam or latex options. However, we’re starting to see a growing market in hybrid mattress toppers, with these set to become more popular in the future. 

With the Labor Day mattress sales on the horizon, some brands are already offering sizeable discounts. So, if you’re in the market for a new topper, now could be the perfect time to buy. This hybrid vs latex mattress topper comparison should help you narrow down where to spend your money.

What is a hybrid mattress topper? 

Hybrid mattress toppers are the new kids on the block and are designed in much the same way as the best hybrid mattresses. These bed toppers combine foam with coils, giving both comfort and support to your bed. Unlike a hybrid mattress, which uses full sized coils, a hybrid mattress topper will generally use microcoils instead, as these are designed to be smaller and more flexible than standard mattress coils). 

What is a latex mattress topper?

Latex is a sustainable and non-toxic material that’s often used in the best organic mattresses on the market. Remarkably durable, some latex mattress toppers will last you up to 15 years with proper care and attention. There are two types of latex used to make toppers – Dunlop and Talalay. Dunlop latex tends to feel firmer than Talalay, which has a softer, plusher feeling. A latex topper is also naturally hypoallergenic and resistant to common allergens such as pollen, dander, dust mites and mold. 

Hybrid vs latex mattress toppers: Price

Latex is a premium material, which means that latex mattress toppers aren’t going to be a budget choice. But, by the same token, the combination of foams and coils in a hybrid mattress topper also raises the price. So, these aren’t the toppers to choose if you’re on a tight budget. 

The more expensive materials also mean that it’s a good idea to wait for major sales to grab a bargain. Both hybrid and latex mattress toppers come in at around $300 to $500, although we have seen some bargains where you can save more, particularly with latex toppers (as these have been around for longer). 

If you are on a tighter budget, you might want to consider one of the best memory foam mattress toppers instead, as these are considerably more affordable.  

Hybrid vs latex mattress toppers: Design & materials

As you might expect, a hybrid mattress topper is a condensed version of a full hybrid mattress when it comes to materials. Exact materials will vary from brand to brand, but hybrid toppers are generally on the thicker side (around three to four inches) in order to fit in both foams and coils.

In general, these are designed with one of two layers of comfort foam at the top, followed by a layer of microcoils to provide pressure relief. The bottom layer tends to be high-density foam for support, with a breathable or cooling cover finishing off the topper. Expect a lifespan of around five years for a hybrid topper, as they are considerably thinner than a hybrid mattress. Hybrid mattress toppers sometimes come in different firmness ratings as well, so you can pick one best suited to your sleeping style and body weight. 

Latex mattress toppers are a simpler design, with one or two layers of latex encased in a breathable cover. As natural latex is 100% organic, most of the other materials used will be as well, with brands often using organic cotton or wool in the cover. More expensive latex toppers can also have an additional layer of organic wool as a natural flame retardant. You’ll also find latex toppers offered in a variety of firmness options, but these toppers will give you a much longer lifespan and could last up to 15 years.

Hybrid vs latex mattress toppers: Comfort & support

Both hybrid and latex mattress toppers offer a more responsive feel than memory foam toppers, and you should expect less sinkage from these types of toppers. Hybrid mattress toppers are designed to replicate the bouncy, supportive feel of hybrid mattresses. Although these toppers often come in different firmness ratings, even the softest hybrid topper will still give you push back from the coil layer to stop you sinking too far into the topper. 

Hybrid mattress toppers offer excellent pressure relief, with the coils helping to keep the spine aligned. The differing firmness ratings mean that most sleepers will be able to find a topper to suit their sleeping style, although some lightweight side sleepers may find them a little too firm. 

Latex mattress toppers also tend to offer a bouncier, firmer and more supportive feel. They’re an ideal choice to firm up a softer mattress, with the latex helping to keep the hips supported and the spine aligned. Some latex toppers do come with plush top layers to give a little more comfort but, in general, we’d recommend them particularly to back and combination sleepers.

Both styles of topper can also be a good choice for those with back pain, with a combination of softer layers at the top and firmer support underneath. However, these are only toppers so if you do suffer with chronic back or joint pain, you would probably be better off investing in one of the best mattresses for back pain. 

• Read more: I’ve been sleeping on the Helix GlacioTex Premium Mattress Topper for a week — 3 ways it's changing my sleep

Hybrid vs latex mattress toppers: Temperature regulation

Both hybrid and latex mattress toppers are a good choice if you sleep warm. A hybrid mattress topper has microcoils, which will help to promote airflow through the mattress and prevent heat from becoming trapped. In addition, these toppers generally come with either breathable cotton covers or specialist cooling covers to help keep sleepers cool and comfortable.

Latex is naturally breathable, with a porous surface that will help to boost circulation. You’ll sometimes even see brands cutting small holes in the latex to improve airflow even more. Because latex is organic, other materials used in the toppers will generally be organic too, with both organic cotton and organic wool also being supremely breathable and helping to wick away moisture. 

Hybrid vs latex mattress toppers: Which should you buy?

Buy a hybrid mattress topper if… 

✅  You want a thicker topper: Hybrid mattress toppers have to be thicker to incorporate the layers of coils and foam, meaning they’ll add quite a few inches to your existing mattress. 

✅  You want the feel of a hybrid mattress: Although they’re obviously not actual mattresses, a hybrid topper will give you the feel of a hybrid mattress, with support from the coil layer and comfort from the foam layers above. 

✅  You want a topper to suit all sleeping positions: Because you can buy hybrid toppers in different firmness ratings, you should be able to find one that suits your sleeping style and body weight. 

Buy a latex mattress topper if…

✅   You want an eco-friendly option: Latex is organic, hypoallergenic, non-toxic and antimicrobial – plus it’s also sustainably produced. All this makes it a great option for those looking for an eco-friendly topper. 

✅   You sleep on your back or you’re a combination sleeper: The bouncy feel of latex means it’s easy to change positions through the night, plus there’s plenty of support for spinal alignment when sleeping on your back. 

✅   You sleep hot: Although both hybrid and latex toppers are a good option for hot sleepers, latex is naturally breathable and cooler with its porous texture, and you’ll get the added benefit of either organic cotton or wool in the cover to add to the heat wicking properties. 

If you're deciding whether to add a down or latex mattress topper to a bed in need of a makeover, there are some things you'll need to consider. For instance, one question to ask is which is better at keeping hot sleepers cool at night: a down vs latex mattress topper?

There are plenty of great beds in this year's best mattress guide for all types of sleepers, but sometimes one of the best mattress toppers is all you need to boost your sleep. However, you need to make sure that the mattress topper - be it down or latex -  will keep you cool, comfortable, and supported. 

While both down and latex mattress toppers come with their benefits, they have their drawbacks, too. This guide will compare the key differences between a down mattress topper vs a latex mattress topper, so you can decide which to buy in the Labor Day mattress sales.

Down vs latex mattress toppers: overview

While genuine down toppers feature bird feathers, most down toppers or down alternative toppers today are made from synthetic materials (such as polyester fibers or microfiber fill) that mimic fluffy, fine feathers. For this guide, we're focusing on down alternative toppers only and will refer to them as down toppers. This is for two reasons: 1) real down toppers can trigger allergies; and 2) real down toppers may not be ethical or animal-friendly if not sourced responsibly. 

Latex mattress toppers are mattress toppers made from natural latex (either Dunlop vs Talalay latex), which provides a dense, spongy layer of padding to your mattress.

Down vs latex mattress toppers: price

On the whole, a down topper is much cheaper than a latex mattress topper. You can find many down alternative toppers for a low price from retailers such as Target, Home Depot, and Amazon. In fact, the average price of a queen-size down alternative topper is around $59. 

In stark contrast, the average price of a queen-size latex mattress topper is $575, around what you'd pay for queen size cheap mattress. This high price is due to latex's durability and sustainable manufacturing process. 

Down vs latex mattress toppers: design and materials

Down alternative toppers are filled with soft, fluffy synthetic material such as microfiber and polyester to mimic the fineness of feathers. They often have a breathable cotton cover with anchor straps to keep the topper in place. They are soft and plush, but not very durable. In fact, the average lifespan of a down alternative topper is just one to two years.  

Latex toppers, on the other hand, are extremely durable thanks to latex's high quality and longevity. These sustainable toppers can last up to 10 years, which matches the average lifespan of a full-fledged mattress. 

But the main draw of latex is, of course, its eco-luxury feel. Latex is a natural, organic material and is perfect for those who want to add some green credentials to their sleep set-up. Latex is also hypoallergenic, non-toxic, antimicrobial, and naturally resistant to dust mites, mold, and mildew.

In terms of design, latex mattress toppers can vary. Some come with plenty of layers, including natural wool fire retardants and organic cotton covers with anchor straps, while less expensive latex toppers offer a one-layer slab of latex with no cover.

Down vs latex mattress toppers: support and comfort

While some feel that down alternative toppers offer a soft, plush feel, others feel that they are too thin (down alternative toppers are usually around 1" to 2" thick) to make a real difference to their bed. In fact, many of our topper-testing team at Tom's Guide believe that sleeping on a microfiber mattress topper was a let-down and that down alternative toppers are more like mattress pads than mattress toppers. 

Latex mattress toppers, on the other hand, offer a dense, supportive surface with a spongy, responsive feel. They are perfect for those who want a surface that can provide excellent back support and bouncy comfort. However, those who want maximum pressure relief should probably take a look at our guide to the best memory foam mattress toppers. 

Down vs latex mattress toppers: temperature control

Hot sleepers will need a mattress topper that can keep them cool and comfortable at night. Luckily both down and latex toppers have a breathable design that will keep sleepers feeling refreshed. Down alternative toppers have a construction of cotton and microfiber which encourages airflow through its layers. 

Latex toppers also feature breathable materials, such as organic, moisture-wicking cotton covers and breathable wool layers. Latex itself is also cooling thanks to its porous texture that encourage air circulation. 

Buy a down mattress topper if...

✅ You're on a tighter budget: Latex mattress toppers are pricey, so go for a down alternative topper if you're looking for a quick stopgap while saving for a new mattress.

✅ You want to add breathability without adjusting its firmness: Down alternatives don't really adjust the firmness of a mattress, so they're great if you like the feel of your bed but want to add some breathability.

✅ You want to add some softness to a guest bed: A soft, plush down topper can add a nice, luxurious touch to a guest bed.

Buy a latex mattress topper if...

✅ You want a clean, breathable sleep: Latex is hypoallergenic, non-toxic, and antimicrobial, and sustainable, plus its porous surface means it's great at keeping hot sleepers cool.

✅ You want a mattress topper that lasts: Latex mattress toppers can last up to 15 years if taken care of properly, making them a great sleep investment. 

✅ You want to add support and comfort: Latex has a dense, supportive feel and can add a responsive, comfortable touch. 

The 3 best down and latex mattress topper deals

Both cooling mattress toppers and cooling mattress protectors can add a refreshing touch to your bed and even keep night sweats at bay. However, which is better for when you overheat at night: a cooling mattress topper vs cooling mattress protector?

If you're not in the market right now for this year's best mattress, investing in one of the best mattress toppers is a great, cost-effective alternative, especially if you want to add some cooling tech to a warm bed. However, a mattress topper isn't the only way to cool down a stuffy bed - there are plenty of cooling mattress protectors, too.

Here, we'll explore the key differences between cooling mattress toppers vs cooling mattress protectors. We'll compare which one can benefit those who overheat at night the most, while also exploring design, price, and comfort.

Cooling mattress topper vs cooling mattress protector: overview

A mattress topper is a cushioning layer of padding that's placed on top of a mattress to make it more comfortable or supportive. Most mattress toppers are made out of memory foam or latex, but you can also get bed toppers made from wool or down.

While mattress toppers are primarily made to adjust the firmness of a bed, a lot of mattress toppers today also feature advanced temperature regulation. Some are even billed as cooling mattress toppers. with their main selling point being their cooling tech.

A mattress protectors, on the other hand, is a stretchy item of bedding that covers a mattress primarily to safeguard the mattress from spills, stains, and accidents. The best mattress protectors are waterproof and breathable, but a lot of mattress protectors now come with temperature-regulating features to provide a cool-to-the-touch surface.

Cooling mattress topper vs cooling mattress protector: prices and deals

While cooling mattress toppers and protectors are much cheaper than the best cooling mattress, there are some price differences. Mattress protectors tend to be more expensive than mattress protectors, especially cooling mattress toppers. For example, the average price of the best memory foam mattress topper is around $299 for a queen, while a bed topper billed as cooling typically costs $375 for a queen. In terms of extras, most come with free shipping, a sleep trial of 30 nights and over, and a warranty of around one to five years.

In comparison, a cooling mattress protector is much cheaper, with the average cost of a queen around $155, with plenty available for even cheaper. They usually come with free shipping and a 1-year warranty, but not all of them come with a sleep trial and free returns.

Cooling mattress topper vs cooling mattress protector: Design and materials

The temperature-regulating features vary in cooling mattress toppers. Some cooling bed toppers use foam infused with cooling substances such as heat-dissipating gel, copper, or graphite. Other toppers use ventilated foam and materials with air channels. Also, most toppers come with covers that ae usually made from breathable, moisture-wicking covers made from cotton or polyester knit.

Meanwhile cooling mattress protectors are often made from either breathable materials, such as Tencel, polyester, or spandex, or a actively cooling, heat-dissipating materials such as GlacioTex or Phase Change Material.

In terms of design, cooling toppers are usually around two to four inches thick, and so add extra height to to your mattress as well as padding. They can also come with anchor straps or an anti-slip base to stop the topper from shifting on the bed.

Mattress protectors are made of a stretchy fabric that's much thinner than a topper but thick enough to protect the mattress from spills. As the skirting is stretchy and elasticated, mattress protectors are designed to fit most mattresses, but some won't be able to fit over mattresses more than 15" tall.

Cooling mattress topper vs cooling mattress protector: support and comfort

Cooling mattress toppers aren't just for regulating the temperature of your bed - they can completely transform the feel, too. For example, you can buy a firm mattress topper to boost the support of a mattress that's too soft, but the majority of cooling toppers are perfect for adding cushioning to a hard mattress.

On the other hand, cooling mattress protectors add little in the way of extra comfort or support. In fact, their primary goals are to add breathability, temperature control, and extra protection to a mattress, not to change its feel.

Cooling mattress topper vs cooling mattress protector: temperature regulation

The majority of the cooling bed toppers that we've tested work exceptionally well, especially those that use a ventilated design for enhanced breathability. While some memory foam toppers do tend to sleep warm, those that have been perforated or infused with cooling gel, copper, or graphite usually keep our testers cool and comfortable during the reviewing process.

• Read more: Trouble sleeping during menopause? Doctor shares what to expect and how to cope
• Sijo Airyweight Eucalyptus Mattress Protector review 2025

Cooling mattress protectors also use cooling fabrics that we've found to be effective when reviewing other bedding accessories. Many cooling protectors use breathable materials such as Tencel and heat-dissipating fabrics such as GlacioTex, a trademark cool-to-the-touch fabric that draws heat away from the body. Be aware, however, that a protector is much thinner than a topper, so there's no thick barrier between you and the heat-trapping mattress.

Cooling mattress topper vs cooling mattress protector: Which should you buy?

Buy a cooling mattress topper if...

✅ Your mattress needs more support or comfort: If your mattress sleeps warm but also feels uncomfortable or unsupportive, then a soft or firm cooling mattress topper is the better option.

✅ You suffer from overheating: Cooling mattress toppers tend to have more advanced cooling tech than cooling protectors, plus they provide a thicker barrier between a warm bed and your body.

✅ You already have an effective mattress protector: If you have a mattress protector that does an excellent job of protecting your mattress from liquids and stains, you may want to buy a mattress topper instead. Just make sure to check that the topper doesn't make your bed too high for the mattress protector to stretch over.

Buy a cooling mattress protector if...

✅ You're mattress is already comfortable and supportive: If your mattress provides you with the right balance between comfort and support, and your only issue is overheating, then save your money and opt for a cooling protector instead.

✅ You're on a tight budget: Cooling mattress protectors are hundreds of dollars cheaper than cooling mattress toppers, so those with smaller budgets should go for a protector.

✅ You have a tall bed: If your bed is already around 14" tall or over, adding a 2"-4" topper may make it harder to get in and out of bed, especially if you have mobility issues.

Both egg crate and memory foam mattress toppers can reboot the feel of your bed, boosting its comfort. However, which is better for back pain: egg crate toppers vs memory foam toppers?

Even this year's best mattresses can benefit from a new bed topper, but it can be hard to choose the best mattress topper for your current bed. The most popular kind are memory foam bed toppers, but recently egg crate toppers have been getting some attention for their unique design and comfortable benefits.  

Here, we'll explore the key differences between egg crate vs memory foam mattress toppers. We'll compare which one can benefit those with back pain the most, while also exploring design, price, and cooling features Plus, we've rounded up some of the best deals on egg crate and memory foam toppers ahead of the upcoming Labor Day mattress sales. 

Egg crate vs memory foam mattress toppers: overview

Memory foam is a popular mattress topper material for good reason. Its body-hugging feel is perfect for adding softness to a mattress that feels too hard, providing deep pressure relief to side sleepers. The best memory foam toppers are also usually good value, coming much cheaper than latex or hybrid mattress toppers.

Egg crate mattress toppers, however, are a relatively new invention. Egg crate toppers get their name from the ridges of their surface that resemble an egg carton.  There is some overlap between the egg crate and memory foam toppers, as egg crate mattress toppers can actually be made of memory foam. However, they can also be made from other materials, such as latex. 

Here, we'll be viewing egg crate toppers as any mattress topper with the unique egg crate design (regardless of material), and memory foam toppers as any bed topper made from memory foam that doesn't have the egg crate texture. 

Egg crate vs memory foam mattress toppers: prices and deals

Egg crate mattress topper are budget-friendly, with an average price of a queen just $97. While these mattress toppers' prices can change depending on material, depth, and quality, these egg crate toppers tend to remain in the budget to lower mid range price bracket. So, if your looking for a cost-effective way to transform your mattress, an egg crate mattress topper is a great option.

On the other hand,  the average sale price of a queen memory foam mattress topper is $299 (almost $300 less than a latex one, but over $200 more than an egg crate topper). However, memory foam bed toppers span a wide range of budgets, including premium and budget price brackets, so it's likely you'll find a memory foam topper to suit your price expectations.

Egg crate vs memory foam mattress toppers: Design and materials

An egg crate mattress has a unique design which features a wavy, convoluted foam with a "peaks and valleys" texture on top. For the base, the texture is much smoother. While you can have the egg crate texture facing downwards, it's recommended that it faces upwards to get the full benefit of the design. In terms of materials, egg crate mattress toppers are usually made from memory or latex foam. Usually, egg crate mattress toppers come with no covers. 

Meanwhile, memory foam toppers usually come with fabric covers (though some cheaper ones don't) made from breathable materials such as cotton or a polyester soft knit. They usually have one-layer or two-layer design, with dual-layered memory foam toppers having a denser, supportive foam on the bottom and a cushioning foam on top. 

Memory foam toppers are , of course, made from memory foam. However, different memory foam bed toppers will have different tweaks made to the foam. For example, some memory foam will be perforated for more breathability or infused with copper for its antimicrobial and cooling properties.

An important thing to mention here is durability. While memory foam toppers' durability can change depending on design and quality, memory foam egg crate toppers have a low life expectancy (signalled by their low prices)

Egg crate vs memory foam mattress toppers: Support and Comfort

So, which is better for back pain? Short answer: probably memory foam. While memory foam mattress toppers are often used to soften beds for side sleepers, there are plenty of firm memory foam mattress toppers on the market. 

For example, the our top bed topper for back pain is the Saatva Graphite Mattress topper, a memory foam bed topper that provides excellent contouring support for back sleepers. In fact, in our Saatva Graphite Mattress Topper review, our lead tester was suffering with a back injury and found it provided support and relief to the lower back.  

Egg crate mattress toppers, on the other hand, are designed to provide soothing pressure relief and weight distribution to side sleepers. They relieve the key pressure points when side sleeping (shoulders, knees and hips) and provide an ultra-plush feel. However, this may mean that they can be too soft for back and front sleeping, and may actually cause back pain by not supporting the hips when stomach sleeping. 

Egg crate vs memory foam mattress toppers: Cooling

One of the major benefits of the egg crate design is its breathability. The ridges in the foam create air channels that boost ventilation. The increased airflow means that the topper will sleep cooler. On top of that, some egg crate mattress toppers are infused with cooling gel or made from naturally breathable material such as natural latex. 

While memory foam has a reputation for trapping heat, most memory foam bed toppers today come with temperature-regulating features such as heat-dissipating gel, breathable covers, perforated foam, and cooling infusions such as copper or graphite. That said, some cooling features work better than others, and its performance can depend on quality and whether it was designed to be a cooling bed topper. 

Egg crate vs memory foam mattress toppers: which should you buy?

Buy an egg crate mattress topper if...

✅ You have back pain: Memory foam toppers come in different firmness ratings, so choose a firm, supportive memory foam topper if you suffer with back pain. 

✅ You're a back or stomach sleeper: Again, a firmer memory foam topper can provide great support to your hips and lower back, encouraging proper spinal alignment. 

✅ You want a more high-quality design: Memory foam toppers tend to be more durable and have more high-quality designs (including washable, fabric covers for extra protection). 

Buy a memory foam mattress topper if...

✅ You're on a tighter budget: Egg crate toppers tend to have a cheaper price tag than a lot of memory foam toppers.

✅ You're a side sleeper: The egg crate design is perfect for soothing side-sleeping pressure points in the shoulders and hips and distributing weight evenly. 

✅ You sleep hot: The egg crate design adds breathability by creating air channels that boost ventilation.

The 5 best egg crate and memory foam topper deals

Sometimes, sleeping on an uncomfortably firm mattress will make you search for a quick, cheap solution. And that's exactly what I did when I recently bought a cheap microfiber bed topper in an attempt to soften an intolerably hard mattress. It didn't work, and now I know where I went wrong. 

Even the best mattresses on the market can benefit form a mattress topper, but purchasing the wrong bed topper can actually make your mattress feel worse. I found this out the hard way after buying a microfiber topper, which made me realise why there are no bed toppers of this kind in our best mattress topper guide. 

So, why do I regret buying a cheap microfiber mattress topper? There are a number of reasons, but at least I now know what kind of mattress topper I will be looking for in the upcoming Labor Day mattress sales. 

• Read more: I tried Amazon’s best-selling Japanese floor mattress — here’s what to know before buying

Buying a microfiber topper to soften my firm bed was a mistake — here’s why

As I sleep on both my side and my back, my current pocket spring bed is so firm that it's too hard and uncomfortable whenever I sleep on my side. Since there's no pressure relief, my shoulders and hips press against the mattress's hard springy surface instead of sinking in to a soothing, body-contouring pillow top. This leaves my shoulders and arms feeling numb and I've often woke up with a sore neck on more than one occasion.

Looking for a quick, cost-effective fix, I turned to Amazon and bought a microfiber topper for a low price that promised hotel-luxury comfort and the addition of cushioning softness to any firm mattresses. Microfiber toppers (also called synthetic-filled, hollow fiber, or down alternative toppers) are quilted bed toppers filled with synthetic material. They are known for their low price and soft feel. However, I quickly found that it made little difference to my sleep set-up, and here's why...

1. It's under 2 inches deep 

My microfiber topper measures at 5cm (1.969 inches) tall, meaning it's under the recommend mattress topper depth of 2" to 4" thick. Why do we recommend nothing lower than two inches? Well, any thinner than that and it's unlikely to provide enough depth to make any real impact to a mattress.

I quickly discovered this on the first night, when I rested on my side and still felt the hard surface of my mattress. The topper just felt as though I had put a wafer-thin cushion between me and the bed, meaning that it made little difference to the overall feel of my mattress. 

2. It doesn't provide body-contouring softness

If you take a look at the most luxurious mattress toppers on the market, none of them are microfiber. This is because the most top-rated mattress toppers on the market are made out of materials that are more durable (micorfiber toppers need to be replaced after one or two years) and, most importantly, more comfortable. 

The topper material for softening hard beds is memory foam. The best memory foam toppers are perfect for adding plushness as they provide a body-contouring feel which delivers deep, soothing relief to the three main pressure points when side sleeping: shoulders, hips, and knees. 

Latex and wool are also great bed topper materials as they're durable, natural, and provide a good amount of comfort and support. 

3. It's more like a mattress pad than a bed topper

While the microfiber topper I bought was clearly labelled as a mattress topper, I have my doubts that this is the correct name for it. Mattress toppers tend to be thicker at 2" to 4" and are usually made from wool, latex or memory foam. 

Mattress pads, on the other hand, only provide light support and don't change the firmness of a mattress. They're also very thin (under 2") and portable, so are typically only used for travel or to protect mattresses from stains and allergens rather than adjust its overall feel. Basically, when choosing between a mattress pad vs topper, always pick the bed topper if you want to alter the mattress. 

The type of mattress topper I should have bought instead

So, what kind of mattress topper should I have looked for? First of all, not a microfiber one. As a side sleeper, I should have looked for one made from body-cradling materials. I also should have made sure that the topper was between two to four inches thick - and actually a topper instead of a mattress pad. 

1. Memory foam for pressure relief

My number-one choice for softening a hard mattress is a memory foam topper. As a mattress topper tester, I can honestly say that these bed toppers are the best at providing pressure relief and a body-hugging feel for side sleepers. 

2. Latex for natural temperature regulation

Found in the best organic mattresses, latex is a sustainable, non-toxic, and breathable material, and it's ideal for adding responsive, breathable comfort to any hard mattress. They're also extremely durable and can last up to 10 to 15 years before they need to be replaced. 

3. A hybrid for additional support

Like the best hybrid mattresses, these hybrid toppers offer the soft cushioning feel of memory foam with the support of coils. Hybrid toppers usually contain a top layer of plush, cushioning foam for side sleeping, while the bottom layer of micro coils add breathability and sturdy back support when back sleeping. 

Top 3 mattress topper deals to soften a firm bed

Both latex and memory foam mattress toppers can transform your bed, expanding your mattress's lifespan and boosting its comfort. However, there are some key differences between latex vs memory foam toppers, so how do you decide which is best for your sleep?

While this year's best mattresses are designed to provide support and comfort for most sleepers, every bed can benefit from a mattress topper. The best mattress toppers come in all different designs, but the most popular materials are latex vs memory foam. 

Here, we'll explore the key differences between latex vs memory foam mattress toppers. We'll compare the design, price, support and comfort, and cooling features of each kind, to help you make your choice. Plus, we've rounded up some of the best deals on latex and memory foam toppers in this month's mattress sales.  

Latex vs memory foam mattress toppers: overview

If you're looking to alter the feel of your mattress, then a mattress topper is a cost-effective way to do so. A mattress topper is an extra layer of padding , sort of like a mini mattress, that you add to the top of your bed. They are usually around two to four inches thick, and are typically made of latex or memory foam. 

Latex mattress toppers are made from natural latex, either Dunlop vs Talalay latex. Due to their sustainable production process, they are a popular choice for the eco-conscious or those looking for a cleaner, hypoallergenic sleep. The best memory foam toppers, on the other hand, are the most popular kind of topper as they come in a range of designs and prices. 

Latex vs memory foam mattress toppers: price

Latex is a premium product which means that latex mattress toppers can be expensive. The sustainable manufacturing process and premium materials mean that the average price of a queen-size latex mattress topper is $575, around the same price you'd pay if you bought a queen size cheap mattress. However, mattress toppers are a great way to infuse some eco-luxury onto your sleep set-up without splurging on the best organic mattress (which has an average queen-size price of $1,665).

In contrast, the average sale price of a queen memory foam mattress topper is $299 (almost $300 less than a latex one), so a memory foam topper is the better option if you're on a tight budget. That said, there are plenty of more affordable latex toppers and more expensive memory foam toppers, so set your budget and find a latex or memory foam topper to match.

Latex vs memory foam mattress toppers: design and materials

Most memory foam memory toppers have a relatively simple design, consisting of a layer of memory foam wrapped in a breathable cover usually made from cotton or a soft polyester knit. In fact, some don't even come with a cover - just a slab of memory foam. However, some memory foam bed toppers come with more than one layer, where the top layer is plusher and the bottom layer firmer. 

The overall structure of a latex mattress topper is not too dissimilar to that of a memory foam topper. Both tend to stick to one or two layers of foam that are encased within a breathable cover. However, as latex mattress toppers tend to be 100% organic or natural, the cover is usually made from certified organic cotton or wool. Some latex toppers even add an additional layer made from organic wool as a natural flame retardant. 

The main differences between the two types of topper is the material. But what does each type of foam bring to the mattress? The main selling point of latex is its durability, eco-friendliness, and hypoallergenic properties. Latex toppers can last up to 15 years, which is incredible for a bed topper. Memory foam toppers, meanwhile, only last up to five years. Plus, while memory foam may be naturally dust-mite resistant, latex is non-toxic, antimicrobial, and naturally resistant to dust mites, mold, and mildew.

Latex vs memory foam mattress toppers: support and comfort

If you're looking to soften a mattress that's too firm, a memory foam mattress topper is the way to go. Their trademark body-contouring feel provides cradling comfort and deep pressure relief and soothes the shoulders and hips, making them an ideal alternative to the best mattresses for side sleepers. Most memory foam toppers come in a medium-soft, medium, or medium-firm, but you can get memory foam toppers that come in a firmer feel for back and stomach sleepers.

While plush models are available, latex mattress toppers tend to have a bouncier, firmer, and more supportive feel than memory foam toppers. Memory foam offers a sink-in soft surface for side sleepers while latex delivers are responsive surface. This firmer, responsive feel means that latex bed toppers tend to suit combination sleepers, back sleepers, and stomach sleepers who need more support along the hips to keep the spine properly aligned and to avoid lower back pain.

• Read more: I tried Brooklyn Bedding's 3" Latex Mattress Topper — here's 5 things to know before buying

Latex vs memory foam mattress toppers: temperature control

While memory foam is notorious for trapping heat, most modern memory foam bed toppers come with cooling features to offset memory foam's tendency to sleep warm. Many memory foam toppers are now infused with cooling substances, such as gel, copper or, graphite, that dissipate heat. 

Some even come with specialist cooling covers, and many also use perforated memory foam to increase airflow and breathability. Be aware, however, that some cheaper memory foam toppers still tend to sleep slightly warm even when incorporating cooling features. 

In contrast, a major benefit of latex is its breathability, with its naturally porous surface boosting ventilation to keep you cool. Latex toppers also tend to come with other naturally cooling materials, such as moisture-wicking organic cotton or wool covers.

Latex vs memory foam mattress toppers: which to buy?

Buy a latex mattress topper if...

✅ You want a clean, green sleep: Latex is hypoallergenic, non-toxic, and antimicrobial, while its sustainable production means it's great for the eco-conscious. 

✅ You're a back, stomach, or combination sleeper: Latex is bouncier and firmer than memory foam, making it a more supportive fit for front, back and combi sleeping. 

✅ You sleep hot: Latex is naturally breathable and cooler thanks to its porous texture that boosts air circulation.

Buy a memory foam mattress topper if...

✅ You're on a tighter budget: Memory foam toppers tend to suit smaller budgets as there are plenty of budget models on the market.

✅ You're a side sleeper: Memory foam toppers provide deep pressure relief to the shoulder and hips when lying on your side.

✅ You want to make a firm mattress softer: A memory foam topper can add sink-in softness to any mattress that feels to hard.

TODAY'S TOP 3 latex MATTRESS TOPPER DEALS

TODAY'S TOP 3 MEMORY FOAM MATTRESS TOPPER DEALS

As a sleep writer, I've tested some pretty innovative mattress toppers, but a unique bed topper design that's been on my radar recently is the egg crate mattress topper. These bed toppers promise a comfortable night's sleep, but what are egg crate mattress toppers? And are they worth buying?

While this year's best mattresses promise high-quality comfort, some beds need a refresh. The best mattress toppers of 2025 are great for boosting the comfort of your mattress, and egg crate mattress toppers are designed to do just that. 

Here, I'll give you a breakdown of what egg crate mattress toppers are and explore their pros and cons. Plus, if you decide that an egg crate mattress topper is worth it, you'll find plenty of deals on egg crate bed toppers in this month's mattress sales.

What is an egg crate mattress topper?  

An egg crate mattress topper is a bed topper that uses wavy, convoluted foam with ridges that resemble an egg carton or crate. These uniquely designed mattress toppers are usually made from polyurethane foam (a.k.a. memory foam) or latex foam. 

The "peaks and valleys" texture of an egg crate topper is the surface, while the smooth, flat side of the topper is the base. While you can have the wavy side facing downwards, it is strongly recommended to be placed right side up to feel the full benefit of the design. 

Benefits of an egg crate mattress topper

The design of an egg crate mattress topper is designed to offer a range of benefits. As with most bed toppers, the main benefit of egg crate mattress toppers is to adjust the feel of an existing mattress, but there are a number of other benefits that are unique to the egg crate design...

1. Sleeps cooler  

Even some of the best memory foam mattress toppers can sleep warm, as memory foam is prone to trapping body heat. However, the domed cones of egg crate mattress topper creates air channels, which boosts airflow. The increased air circulation means the egg crate topper sleeps cooler - even if made from memory foam.

A lot of egg crate mattress toppers also add extra cooling properties through infusing memory foam with substances such as cooling gel or copper, or by perforating the foam for more ventilation. You can also find egg crate mattress toppers made from latex, which is a naturally breathable material. 

2. Budget-friendly  

The average price of a queen-size memory foam topper is around $299, while a latex mattress topper typically costs around $575 for a queen. Meanwhile egg crate mattress topper are much cheaper, with an average price of a queen just $97. So, if you're on a tight budget, an egg crate mattress topper is probably the way to go. 

3. Pressure relief  

The unique egg-crate texture is designed to evenly distribute your weight, relieving pressure on your hips and shoulders i.e. the key pressure points when side sleeping. The ultra-plush pressure relief the egg crate design provides helps to contour and soothe sore joints, making egg crate toppers the perfect choice for those who sleep on their side and a great alternative to buying the best mattresses for side sleepers. 

Drawbacks of an egg crate mattress topper

While egg crate toppers may offer a unique design to keep you cool and comfortable, they're not for everyone. Here's why...

1. Less supportive than other types of topper  

Egg-crate mattress toppers can come in different firmness levels, but the majority are plush or medium-soft. As someone who's tested ultra-soft mattress toppers, I know that sleeping on your back on a mattress topper that's too soft can lead to issues such as lower back pain. 

The same goes for stomach sleeping - if the hips aren't supported by a firm surface when back or front sleeping, they will dip and cause the spine to become misaligned. This misalignment will leave you waking up to aches and back pain, so make sure that a soft sleep surface is really what you need.  

• Read more: The 3 kinds of mattress topper good for back pain

2. Issues with durability 

Egg crate mattress toppers quickly lose their unique shape, which means that they aren’t always as supportive as other mattress topper types. If you're wondering how long a mattress topper will last, a key sign is the price tag. Latex and wool mattress toppers are the most expensive kind, but they're also more durable and have a lifespan of 10-15 years. 

Meanwhile, memory foam egg crate toppers last around three years before they need to be replaced, which is signalled by their relatively cheap prices.  

3. Strong off-gassing  

Egg-crate mattress toppers are typically crafted from synthetic materials such as polyurethane foam, which is a cheaper variety of foam with a potential of producing strong off-gassing. 

Off-gassing is the chemical smell that emanates from newly unboxed mattresses or bed toppers, which is caused by the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). While you can minimize the smell by opening bedroom windows and allowing air to circulate, some off-gassing can linger for quite a while. 

Should you buy an egg crate mattress topper?

Buy an egg crate mattress topper if…  

✅ You're on a tighter budget: Egg crate mattress toppers are on average much more affordable than memory foam or latex mattress toppers.

✅ You're a side sleeper: The egg crate design promises to provide a plush sleep surface and reduce pressure on your hips and shoulders, key pressure points when side sleeping.

✅ You want to make your mattress cooler: Egg crate mattress toppers increase air circulation for a breathable, cooler sleep surface.

Don’t buy an egg crate mattress topper if…  

❌ You sleep on your back or stomach: While the egg crate design provides pressure relief to side sleepers, it may be too soft and unsupportive for back and stomach sleepers.

❌You want a durable, high-end topper. Their low price tag is a good indication of a lower life expectancy. 

❌ You want to make your mattress firmer. While some come with firmness options, most egg crate mattress toppers are designed to add extra plushness to mattresses.

If you’re a hot sleeper, staying cool at night can be a real challenge. Some mattress materials, such as memory foam, are notorious for trapping heat and you could find you’re struggling to stay asleep if your mattress is too warm.

Many of the best mattresses on the market are designed with temperature regulation in mind, with features such as heat-wicking covers and specific cooling materials. But a new mattress with cooling features could be an expensive investment. 

If your current mattress is still in great shape, but just isn’t keeping you cool, a cooling mattress topper could be the solution to your problem. In fact, most of the best mattress toppers you can buy will contain cooling technology – this guide will help you understand whether it’s the right choice for you.

• Nolah has released a massive Alaskan king mattress and it’s already on sale

What is a cooling mattress topper?

Mattress toppers are an extra layer of padding that’s placed on top of your mattress to change the feel of the sleep surface. Resembling mini mattresses, they’re commonly between two and four inches in depth, although you will find much thicker toppers going up to around seven inches. 

Bed toppers are secured to the bed at each corner with strong elasticated straps or ties to keep them in place and stop them shifting about at night. Cooling toppers are often infused with gel foams or natural latex to regulate temperature, with some of the best being covered with phase change material that dissipates heat and wicks away sweat.

Cooling mattress topper: Pros

Cooling mattress toppers, as the name suggests, contain materials that help to keep sleepers cool. Some use naturally breathable materials, such as latex, open-cell foams and cotton or wool covers. Others feature an aerated design that increases air circulation. 

For mattress toppers made out of materials that normally retain heat, such as memory foam, infusions such as copper, charcoal, graphite or gel are added to draw heat away from the body. Finally, some toppers contain phase-change materials that absorb heat and draw it away from the body, or GlacioTex covers to cool down both sleeper and topper. 

Cooling isn’t the only pro of a cooling mattress topper. As with any mattress topper, they can change the feel of your existing mattress, making it softer or firmer as required. And, if your mattress is less than eight years old, but starting to develop a few dips and bumps, a mattress topper can give it a few years more life.

Cooling mattress topper: Cons

Although mattress toppers in general can make a big difference to your existing mattress, you do need to be aware that they won’t fix serious problems. If your mattress is old, sagging or turning yellow, you need to replace it as a topper won’t make any difference.

It can also be expensive to get a good quality cooling mattress topper that will actually make a difference to your temperature overnight.

Some of the cheaper toppers use a small amount of infusions, which won’t have any noticeable effect on temperature regulation. And some memory foam toppers will make sleepers too hot.

Some bed toppers are also made from materials that aren’t suitable for those with allergies, and don’t always use hypoallergenic materials to keep costs down. 

How much do cooling mattress toppers cost?

As with mattresses, there’s a huge range options to suit different budgets. Prices range from around $40 - $500 for a cooling mattress topper, although you could pay up to $2,000 if you choose a smart cooling mattress topper. 

The Best Price Mattress Ventilated Memory Foam mattress topper is our pick of the best cheap mattress toppers for hot sleepers, with a queen coming in at $48.75 (was $61.74). 

Casper’s Comfy mattress topper is $179.10 for a twin (was $199) and $269.10 for a queen (was $299), while at the higher end of the price scale, a Saatva Graphite Memory Foam mattress topper is $325 for a twin and $445 for a queen.

Top 3 cooling mattress toppers for hot sleepers

Who should buy a cooling mattress topper?

✅ Hot sleepers: Obviously, the primary audience here is hot sleepers, who want a way to cool down and regulate their temperature overnight, without having to buy a new mattress.

✅ Those with a slightly ‘tired’ mattress: If your mattress is under eight years old and starting to get a few sagging areas, a mattress topper can help to smooth out the surface and extend the life of your mattress by a few more years.

✅ Those looking to change the feel of their mattress: If your mattress is a little too soft or too firm, a mattress topper can change the feel of it and make it more comfortable to sleep on.

Who shouldn’t buy a cooling mattress topper?

❌ Cold sleepers: If you’re a reptile and struggle to stay warm at night, a cooling cover probably isn’t for you! A plain memory foam topper will help to keep you snug and warm instead.

❌ Those with an old mattress: If your mattress is old, sagging, yellow or lumpy, a mattress topper isn’t going to make it a comfortable place to sleep. You will need to invest in a new mattress instead.

❌ Those on a tight budget: Although we have included a budget option here, really hot sleepers will need to make a larger investment to take advantage of toppers with high-end cooling abilities.

If you're constantly waking up in the middle of the night because you feel too hot to sleep, then you're probably wondering if a cooling mattress or a cooling bed topper could be your sleep saviour. Both are good choices, but one costs way more than the other, so how do you choose to make the most of your money? Here we've rounded up the five most common signs that you actually need a cooling mattress topper and not a mattress in this year's Memorial Day mattress sales.

Many of 2024's best mattresses are designed with temperature regulation in mind, either through the use of specific cooling materials (these include copper-infused memory foam and heat-wicking phase change material in the cover) or coils. But there's no need to spend extra money on a mattress when all you need is a good cooling topper.

Here we're looking at five common signs that you should buy a cooling bed topper this Memorial Day, we've rounded up the three best cooling mattress topper deals to save you scouring the Memorial Day sales.

What is a cooling mattress topper?

A mattress topper is a thin layer of padding that can be placed on top of your mattress to alter its feel and add support and/or comfort. A cooling mattress topper can change the firmness of the mattress, too, but it also adds temperature regulation. 

Cooling technology is found in most of the best mattress toppers. Cooling tech can be anything from a breathable, heat-dissipating cover to cooling infusions of gel, copper, or graphite. 

5 signs you should buy a cooling bed topper instead of a mattress

1. You're overheating at night 

The most obvious sign that you need a cooling bed topper is the feeling of being overheated at night. If you're suffering from night sweats and insomnia due to feeling too hot, it's likely that your mattress may be at least partly to blame. While many mattresses feature cooling features such as breathable covers and springs or coils, a lot of mattresses sleep warm.

This is especially true for even the best memory foam mattresses as memory foam has a tendency to trap heat. A cooling mattress topper can help to completely alter the temperature of your sleep surface and prevent your mattress from making you too hot. 

2. Your mattress is less than eight years old

Just bought a new mattress but realised it has a few faults? It can be annoying if you realize your mattress isn't right for you after a couple of years. Mattresses are investments and are meant to last you at least eight years. Any less than that, and it can feel as if you've wasted your money. 

A mattress topper is great way to give your mattress a boost if you find that its performance has dipped slightly after a few years, saving you hundreds of dollars in the process. 

3. You want to make your mattress firmer or softer

So, you read the online reviews, loved the feel when trying it out in the store, and decided to keep it after your at-home sleep trial was up. But now it seems like you made the wrong decision. The cloud-like softness that you initially loved is now giving you lower back pain, or the ultra-firm mattress you bought for support is now making it impossible to sleep on your side. 

Either way, there are plenty of cooling bed toppers on the market that not only change the temperature, but also change the firmness. Latex mattress topper are great for adding both firm support and breathability, while the best memory foam toppers are infused with cooling gel to add sink-in soft pressure relief and temperature balance. 

4. Your mattress is still supportive

There are multiple signs that your mattress needs replacing, including if its warranty has run out (usually after 10 years old), if it is sagging or has a significant dip in the middle, and if it is damaged, ripped, or unsanitary. However, most mattresses that are under 10 years old and undamaged are still supportive and don't need replacing.

Instead, they may need some alterations (be it the adding of extra cushioning, motion isolation, or cooling tech) and this is where the best mattress toppers really shine. 

5. You're only searching for cheap mattresses

If your current mattress is making every night a sleepless one, you may be desperately searching for a quick-fix, cheap mattress that fits your budget - which may lead you to buying a low-quality mattress that causes you more harm than good. 

While the best cheap mattresses can offer support and comfort on a tight budget, others are less durable and may not come with important extras (such as at-home sleep trials and warranties). If you're looking to fix your sleep on a tight budget, investing in a mattress topper is a great cost-effective way of fixing your sleep as most cost the same as a cheap mattress. 

• I have a $500 budget for a memory foam mattress in Memorial Day sales – here's what I'm buying

The 3 best cooling mattress topper Memorial Day deals

Memory foam is a popular mattress topper material thanks to its body-cradling comfort that can soften the hardest beds. Latex is another popular topper material, and it doesn't have the same drawbacks that memory foam has. So how can you tell if your memory foam topper is causing your current sleep problems and therefore you should switch to a latex mattress topper instead?

Some of the very best mattresses we've tested are made from natural latex and that's because latex is non-toxic, supportive, pressure relieving, durable and naturally cooling. However, latex mattresses don't come cheap, which is why a latex bed topper is great for adding this sustainable material to your sleep set-up for a fraction of the price.

Here we'll break down five common signs that you should be sleeping on a latex mattress topper, not a memory foam one.

1. You're waking up with lower back pain

The majority of this year's best mattress toppers are designed to add softness to a firm bed, meaning they tend to have a soft or medium firmness rating. This is fine for those who need extra cushioning, such as side sleepers, but some can be too soft and unsupportive for back, front, and plus-sized sleepers.

If the plush memory foam does not support your hips properly or keep them in line with your spine, this can lead to lower back pain. Latex mattress toppers tend to be denser and firmer than memory foam topper, so are better suited for those with aches and pains in the back.

2. You're finding it hard to move around

The best memory foam mattress toppers are great for motion isolation, as the foam is slow-moving and cushioning. However, this means it isn't the most responsive surface, which can make it difficult to change positions on. In fact, some people see the classic "hug" of memory foam to be stifling and immobilizing. Latex, on the other hand, doesn't have that sink-in feel, which is much better for restless or combination sleepers.

3. Your bed topper is already starting to sag 

How long mattress toppers last depends on the material they are made from. Memory foam mattress toppers need to be changed regularly, every two to five years. Latex mattress toppers, meanwhile, have a much longer lifespan of five to 15 years.

If your topper is already starting to sag despite only being purchased two years ago, then it's probably time to buy a mattress topper that uses more durable materials such as latex.

4. You're overheating at night

If you're a hot sleeper and find yourself waking up at night in a sweat, it's likely that your memory foam topper is to blame (or at least, isn't helping). Memory foam's body-cradling properties also means it's prone to trap heat, causing hot sleepers to feel even hotter.

While you could look for some of the best cooling mattresses, a latex mattress topper is much cheaper and can provide some much needed breathability. Latex has a porous structure, meaning that it's naturally ventilating and cooling, so it's a great option for those who overheat at night or live in a hot climate.

5. You're allergies are flaring up

While memory foam is naturally dust-mite resistant, it doesn't mean it's antimicrobrial and resistant to other allergens. Unfortunately, if not aired properly, a memory foam topper can begin to grow mold.

On the other hand, latex is hypoallergenic, non-toxic, clean, and sustainable. A latex mattress topper can provide an allergy-free, natural sleep surface perfect for those who want a clean, green sleep.

The best latex mattress toppers to buy now

A smart cooling mattress topper helps hot sleepers to take charge of their temperature, helping them to stay cool and comfortable all night long. Used alongside the mattress of your choice, a smart cooling mattress topper system allows users to make the bed hot or colder, depending on their sleep needs.

As temperatures start to warm up, even the best mattress can sometimes can require a helping hand and keeping sleepers cool, leading to clammy mornings and disrupted nights. For hot sleepers, a lack of temperature regulation can mean frequently missing out on much needed rest, as you spend the night fighting with uncomfortably warm covers. 

A smart cooling mattress topper ensures you can take total control of the temperature, without needing to compromise the feel of your mattress. Here we'll explore exactly what a smart cooling mattress topper is and what it can do for your rest, plus some of the best examples on the market ahead of the Memorial Day mattress sales. Let's get started. 

What is a smart cooling mattress topper?

Smart cooling mattress toppers offer a high-tech solution to a common sleep problem: overheating. Sitting on top of your chosen mattress, smart cooling toppers feature adjustable temperature settings that allow you to fine-tune the heating of the bed to suit your needs. 

Smart cooling mattress toppers typically achieve this temperature regulation using one of two methods: air or water. Air-based cooling toppers use fans to circulate cold air through the bed, for a chillier experience. Water-based toppers, on the other hand, feature small pipes or chambers filled with water which can draw away heat to cool the bed.

Although we're referring to them as toppers, many of these smart systems more closely resemble mattress protectors than the best mattress toppers. They're typically thin, rather than padded and thick, and apart from the temperature they won't do much to change the feel of the bed. However, regardless of the depth they're all intended to be used with a mattress, not on their own.

How much does a smart cooling mattress topper cost?

Unlike cooling mattress toppers that are infused with naturally temperature regulating materials, smart cooling mattress toppers use the latest in smart technology to adjust your temperature as you sleep and according to your sleep preferences. This smart technology doesn’t come cheap, with the price of smart cooling starting at around $1,500 for a queen. 

And that's a conservative estimate. For a smart cooling mattress topper that covers the entire mattress and allows separate adjustments either side of the bed, expect to pay upwards of $2,000. This is similar to what we expect to pay for the best luxury mattresses, but typically more affordable than the best smart mattresses. 

So what are you getting for that price? To put it simply, cooling and more comfortable sleep and fewer disrupted nights.

5 ways a smart cooling mattress topper can stop you sleeping hot

1. You can adjust the temperature precisely

Traditional cooling mattresses typically use heat wicking materials to draw warmth away from the body to keep temperatures even during the night. Smart cooling mattress toppers take this further, giving you control over the temperature of the bed with in-built thermostats allowing you to fine-tune the feel.

With a smart cooling mattress topper you can pick the temperature you want and the topper will adjust to suit your needs. We're talking down to an exact degree Fahrenheit – it's not a hot or cold type of system. This crucial element of control is what makes smart cooling toppers so special, and makes them particularly suited for those who struggle with overheating.

2. Dual temperature zoning for couples with different sleep needs

If you like to kick the covers off but your bed partner prefers to snuggle up, a smart cooling mattress topper can let you enjoy a different temperature from the same bed. Dual-zoned toppers essentially divide the bed in half, allowing each person to change the temperature as they need. It's sort of like a high-tech take on the Scandinavian sleep method – with less laundry.

As well as dual-zoned systems, some smart cooling toppers come in individual sizes, such as half queen. This means temperature changes are confined to one side of the bed. These single sized toppers are also a more affordable option. For example, the Sleep Number DualTemp Layer half queen is just $999.99 at Sleep Number. 

3. Smart adjustments prevent sleep disruptions

Some smart toppers can cool or heat automatically depending on the current ambient temperature. This prevents you from waking up clammy in the middle of the night, but it also means you won't freeze from setting the topper to 'Arctic chill' before falling asleep. 

Other smart mattress toppers allow you to preset a series of temperatures to change throughout the night. For example, if you know the heating is going to kick in around five in the morning, you can set the topper to start cooling at roughly the same time. Alternatively, if the ambient temperature tends to drop at around 3am, that's when you can tell the topper to start warming up.

4. Prepare for temperature changes through sleep tracking

Many smart cooling mattress toppers include built-in sleep trackers, offering you a first-hand look at your sleep habits. Understanding how your sleep is being disrupted can help you take steps to limit this disturbance, for better rest overall.

An in-built tracker can also help you pick the perfect temperature, as you'll have access to data regarding how well you slept at different heat levels. Particularly useful when the season changes. And if factors such as hormone fluctuations, changes in medication, or sickness affect your temperature overnight, the tracker can use this data to help you react before your sleep suffers.

5. Stay warm in winter with adjustable heating

The body naturally cools in the evening, signaling that it's time to sleep. That's why we recommend turning the heating down before bed, and why a smart cooling topper can help prevent night sweats from waking you up.

However, on a cold winter's night you might find the bedroom temperature has dropped a little too low. While heat can stop you from sleeping, shivering from cold is also liable to keep you awake. With a smart topper, you can add a touch of warmth to your bed without the risk of overheating, especially as many smart toppers will start to cool if things get too stuffy.

3 best smart cooling mattress topper deals

The best mattress toppers can be used to transform the feel of your bed, helping create a sleep setup that's perfect for your needs. If your bed doesn't quite feel as comfortable as you'd like, some of the top-rated mattress toppers offer a cost-effective way to improve the comfort levels of your current sleep surface.

It isn't just firmness that mattress toppers can fine tune, though. Even the best mattresses aren't guaranteed to suit every sleep style, but a decent mattress topper can boost areas of performance like temperature regulation and lumbar support, helping breath new life into your existing bed.

Spotting the following signs means you might be able to get away with buying a new mattress topper instead of a full-blown bed in this year's Memorial Day mattress sales. If you do decide you only need a bed topper this time, be sure to check out our comprehensive guide on how to choose a mattress topper.

5 signs you need a new bed topper, not a new mattress

1. Your mattress is new but uncomfortable

Firmness and comfort is subjective, which is why there's no single mattress that's perfect for everyone. If your mattress is past its mattress trial period, in good condition, but just not providing the sleep surface you need, a topper can change the feel to match your needs.

The right mattress topper can bring a new feel to a mattress, making a firm mattress softer and a soft mattress firmer. It can also be used to improve motion isolation, which is crucial for bed sharers who find their bouncy mattress is disrupting their rest. Cheaper than a brand new mattress, a topper is an affordable solution to an imperfect mattress.

A mattress topper is also a useful addition to your sleep set up if your sleep needs have changed but you don't have the budget to replace your mattress. Your old bed supported your front sleeping needs but it's too hard for your new side sleeping position? Consider a mattress topper.

2. You're waking up hot

Even the most supportive and comfortable mattress won't be right for you if overheating in the night is frequently waking you up. A cooling mattress topper can help keeps temperatures regulated while maintaining the overall feel of the bed beneath.

Cooling mattress toppers will help absorb and dissipate body heat, providing you with a refreshing night's sleep at a fraction of the cost of the best cooling mattresses. As with buying a cooling mattress, look for a topper that boasts cooling credentials, like copper infused foam, or harnesses the naturally cooling properties of organic materials, like wool.

3. You're waking up with aches and pains

The right mattress topper can increase the overall support of your bed, adding pressure relief across the body to limit aches and pains. The best mattresses for back pain typically feature increased lumbar support which helps keep pressure off the spine. Look for something similar in a mattress topper, if back pain is keeping you awake.

While a mattress topper can improve the level of support a mattress provides, it's not a long-term fix for an old, broken bed. If the supportive core is shot, a topper can make the bed more comfortable for a short period – but you will need to replace the mattress sooner rather than later.

4. Allergies are keeping you awake

Mattresses can be a haven for common allergens – such as dust mites and mold – especially if you aren't keeping on top of your mattress cleaning routine. It is possible to buy a mattress that's naturally resistant to common allergens, but a more affordable solution is to invest in a hypoallergenic mattress topper.

Hypoallergenic mattress toppers are typically made using organic materials, such as latex, that are naturally non-allergenic. Alternatively, they might use antimicrobial treatments to inhibit the growth of common allergens.

5. Your budget doesn't stretch to a new mattress

We recommend replacing your mattress every six to ten years, so if your bed is approaching the far end of that time period, it's time to start shopping for something new. With that said, a new mattress is an investment purchase, so you might need some time to save up before buying the bed of your dreams.

Buying a mattress topper means you don't have to sacrifice your sleep while saving to buy a new bed. A topper can boost the support and comfort of your current mattress, giving you a grace period as you shop for a replacement.

However, if your bed really is past its best, a small budget doesn't have to stop you from getting a good mattress. The Memorial Day mattress sales are just starting to heat up, bringing some of the biggest discounts we'll see this side of Black Friday.

They've risen in popularity in recent years — but what are latex mattress toppers and are they any good? Latex mattresses and toppers are renowned for their natural cooling and allergen-repelling benefits. While memory foam is still by far the most common mattress topper material, latex can offer luxurious features not found in standard foam bed toppers.

An increasing number of the best mattresses are incorporating latex into their design due to the material's eco-friendliness, durability and support. However, latex mattresses are expensive, so latex mattress toppers are a cost-effective way to add the benefits of latex to your sleep setup at a fraction of the price.

Here, we'll take a look at what exactly latex mattress toppers are and their key benefits. Plus, we'll also look at where you can buy the best latex mattress toppers and the deals to shop ahead of the Memorial Day mattress sales in May.

What are latex mattress toppers?

The best mattress toppers can provide softness, firmness or cooling tech to your bed. These toppers are thin mat-like pads that sit on top of your mattress to provide a comfortable sleep surface. While most mattress toppers feature memory foam, latex has become a popular topper material as it can provide the luxurious benefits of latex without having to splurge on an expensive fully-fledged latex mattress. 

Most latex toppers are made with other natural, organic materials, such as organic wool to add extra breathability and cooling properties. Some come with a cotton cover for a soft-touch sleep surface and anchor straps to stop the topper from shifting or slipping. 

• Read more: I tried Brooklyn Bedding's 3" Latex Mattress Topper — here's 5 things to know before buying

Are latex mattress toppers toxic?

One of the biggest draws of natural latex (and why it's found in all of the best organic mattresses) is its non-toxic, clean and sustainable properties. Natural, organic-certified latex mattress toppers are of high quality and meet environmental and safety standards. A lot of latex mattress toppers are GOTS Certified (Global Organic Textile Standard) , which means they do not contain some prohibited chemicals such as certain flame retardants (e.g. hazardous fiberglass), formaldehyde, and polyurethane.

Are latex mattress toppers cooling?

Natural latex is porous, meaning it's inherently breathable and cooling thanks to the airflow it encourages. Not only do latex mattress toppers sleep cool, but they're also great at adding some extra ventilation to a mattress that sleeps too hot. In the case of Dunlop vs Talalay latex, Talalay latex sleeps slightly cooler than Dunlop as it's more perforated. 

A lot of latex mattresses come with covers made from organic materials such as wool and cotton, which are breathable and moisture-wicking for a cool, dry sleep surface. 

Are latex mattress toppers hypoallergenic? 

Latex is naturally resistant to common allergens found in the bedroom, such as dust mites, mildew, and mold, meaning that latex mattress toppers can help prevent  allergens affecting your sleep. They are also sometimes treated with antimicrobrial treatment (which prevents common allergen build-up). 

How long does a latex mattress topper last?

Latex mattress toppers are known to be long-lasting thanks to latex's durability. In fact if you're wondering when your mattress topper should be replaced, a latex mattress topper can last up to 15 years. To put that into perspective, even the best memory foam toppers only last up to five years while feather or down toppers only last for two years. Wool, which is usually included in latex mattress toppers, is also durable and can last a decade. 

Where to buy the best latex mattress toppers

Latex mattress toppers are available from many homeware retailers such as Wayfair, IKEA, and Bed, Bath & Beyond. You can also find some deals on latex mattress toppers on Amazon. However, we always recommend purchasing from the brand's website as it guarantees you benefits such as a warranty, free shipping, and a at-home sleep trial. Here are our top picks for best latex mattress toppers:

Whether or not you should flip your mattress topper largely depends on the materials it‘s made from. After all, toppers may have a shorter lifespan than the beds they protect, but that doesn't mean you can't help them last longer with a few maintenance tips such as flipping or rotating them.

The average life expectancy of a mattress topper is three to five years, which is undoubtedly short compared to how long the best mattresses are designed to last. However you can reduce the amount of times you need to replace your topper by preventing sagging and evenly distributing wear and tear. 

But should you flip your mattress topper or is there a better way to look after it? Here we'll explain how to prolong your latex, memory foam and down bed toppers, and what you can and can’t do with them. If you decide that you need to buy a new topper, keep an eye on the upcoming Memorial Day mattress sales as we’re expecting some big price drops on a range of sleep accessories.

• Tempur-Pedic mattress topper: was $319 now $191.40 @ Tempur-Pedic
• Bear mattress topper: 35% off via coupon "FRESH" @ Bear
• Layla mattress topper: was $289 now $189 @ Layla
• ViscoSoft Active Cooling Copper Topper: was $334 now $249 @ ViscoSoft
• Casper Comfy Mattress Topper: was $199 now $179.10 @ Casper

Should you flip your mattress topper?

The best mattress toppers can add softness, firmness, and temperature control. However, if you've noticed that your topper doesn't feel as comfortable as it once was but had it for less than two years, it may need a boost. While flipping mattresses to give them a refresh isn't recommended anymore, does the same rule apply to mattress toppers?

Well, just like mattresses, it depends on the type. Innerspring mattresses with a simple design can be flipped, but memory foam and hybrid mattress have such a complex design that flipping them can disorder their layers and make their structure ineffective. The same applies to mattress toppers.

Feather or down toppers have a simple all-feather design, so it's highly recommended that you flip, shake, and rotate your feather topper regularly to make it fluffier and soft. In fact, flipping it regularly can make it feel better.

While you can also buy toppers with a flippable, double-side design, they have different firmness levels on each side, which isn't ideal for anyone who wants the same feel every night. Other mattress toppers, meanwhile, have a design that can't be flipped at all.

Can you flip a memory foam topper?

Most mattress toppers use memory foam as it's an easy way to add body-cradling pressure relief to the top of a firm mattress. However, the best memory foam mattress toppers tend to have a certain design that only works if the topper is the right way up. 

The best memory foam toppers have one side that's designed to be on top as it provides a cushioning or cool-to-the-touch sleep surface, while the bottom side tends to act as a sturdy, anti-slip base layer. If you flip the topper upside down, you may not get the full benefits of its design. 

Instead, it's recommended that you rotate the mattress topper (so that the side that's at the foot of the bed is at the top of the bed) every six to twelve months. 

Can you flip a latex topper?

Latex has become a popular material in the bedding world thanks to its sustainability, breathability, and durability. They're an affordable alternative to the best organic mattresses and last much longer than memory foam and down toppers, but they still require some maintenance. Like memory foam mattress toppers, latex toppers shouldn't be flipped but should be rotated every six months to evenly distribute wear and tear. 

How to flip or rotate your mattress topper

If you own a double-side topper or a feather or down mattress topper, then flipping should be much easier compared to flipping a full-fledged mattress. Simply turn the mattress aren't to it's side then lay it down so the side that was on the bottom is now on top. 

When rotating a mattress topper, you may want to move any bedside tables or other furniture that's close to the bed just in case the topper knocks anything over. Gently lift the topper (make sure that you're not bending it) then rotate it 180 degrees so the side that was at the foot of the bed is now at the top.  

Mattress toppers are great for boosting the support and comfort of your mattress, but how long do they last and what are the signs that they need replacing? While bed toppers have a shorter shelf life than actual mattresses, quality, thickness and materials are key factors in their lifespan and when they should be replaced.

Despite having a shorter shelf life compared to an actual mattress, we feel that bed toppers are worth the money. Why? Because even this year's best mattresses for a comfortable sleep might need a little tailoring to your exact needs. The best mattress toppers are capable of protecting your mattress, prolonging its lifespan and changing the feel of its sleep surface.

Here we'll talk you through the three key signs that your mattress topper needs replacing, plus how long a mattress topper should last depending on its build quality and materials. If you decide that your topper has seen better days, regular mattress sales mean it's always a great time to buy new.

What are mattress toppers?

A mattress topper is a thin layer of cushioning to making your bed firmer, softer or cooler. Toppers also tend to be cheaper than most mattresses in a box, which is why they're a great option for those in need of a new mattress yet are looking for a temporary fix instead until they have the budget for a new bed. 

Mattress toppers come in different sizes, heights, materials and firmness levels. However we recommend choosing a topper that's at least 2" thick (anything thinner will be ineffective) and made of good-quality materials. These include CertiPUR-US certified foam, latex, wool, or ethically sourced down. 

3 key signs that your mattress topper needs replacing

Ok, so now that you know how long a mattress topper should last, let's focus on the signs that your topper needs replacing sooner rather than later. A lot of these are similar to the signs we look for when assessing whether a mattress needs replacing, so you might want to give your bed the once over too. Here's how to tell if your mattress topper needs replacing:

1. The cover is torn, stained and worn

A mattress topper is the second line of defence between your body and your mattress – a mattress protector is the first – so it will show signs of wear and tear. Learning how to clean a mattress topper and doing so regularly will help prolong its lifespan, but even then there are some signs of wear and tear that mean it won't last as long as you may have hoped.

But if your topper is torn and deeply stained, it. can harbour bacteria, dust mites and even hide bed bugs, so best replace it. Atorn topper also exposes the materials inside to damage.

2. It no longer offers comfort and support

The main purpose of a mattress topper is to improve either the comfort, support, feel or cooling clout of your mattress – and sometimes all four elements at once. If your topper is no longer performing in the way it should, then it needs replacing to stop it from causing you physical aches and pains, including lower back pain.

3. It has a musty odour and suspicious stains

Musty smells can be a sign of mold similar to what we see with mattress mold. The majority of the time this smell will be accompanied by small black dots on the mattress topper, and this is a sign of mold. Bed bug droppings are a little bigger than mold specks, so its pay to learn the difference and get clear on the signs of bed bugs in your mattress and topper. In either case, we'd recommend replacing your mattress topper fast. 

Today's best mattress topper deals

How long do mattress toppers last?

There seems to be a debate surrounding the question of how long mattress toppers last. While some mattress brands, such as Turmerry and Saatva, say a mattress topper can last up to 5 years on average, some textile specialists suggest they should be replaced more often.  “It’s important to make sure to replace your mattress topper every one to two years, to help your mattress last longer,” says Lydia Lloyd, M&S Home's homeware textiles designer,

The quality, material, and frequency of use can also affect how long your mattress topper lasts. There seems to be some confusion over the bed topper's average lifespan, so here's the life expectancy of each type of mattress topper based on their materials:

Memory foam toppers

How long do foam mattress toppers last?

Memory foam is a popular mattress topper material as its body-contouring properties can add plushness and pressure relief to a firm bed. Memory foam mattress toppers are also less expensive than natural bed toppers, such as those made from wool and latex. 

Memory foam can lose its shape and support if it has been frequently used over a long period of time and can even start to sag, though. That's why the average lifespan of a foam mattress topper is three years. If you'd prefer a memory foam bed, read our guide to this year's best memory foam mattresses too.

If you're wondering if you should flip your mattress topper to extend its life, the best thing to do is rotate the topper every six months instead. Simply turn it 180 degrees so the part where you rest your head is now at the foot of the bed. 

We recommend aiming to replace your memory foam topper before or just after three years if it becomes too soft to support your hips, and you're waking up with aches and pains - especially in the lower back. Also, if you're buying a a cheap mattress topper (anything lower than $50 for a queen), it'll probably last less than 3 years.

Latex mattress toppers

How long do latex mattress toppers last?

Latex mattress toppers, while more expensive than memory foam ones, are known for their high quality and durability. It can sometimes depend on the type of latex used (such as whether it's made from Dunlop latex vs Talalay latex), but your latex bed topper should last around five to 10 years.

However, some organic latex mattress toppers last up to 15 years, and can even outlive or prolong the lifespan of an an average mattress by preventing creaking and providing long-term protection. The best organic mattresses, by comparison, can last around 20 years.

Wool mattress toppers

How long do wool mattress toppers last?

Another great material for those looking for a non-toxic, natural sleep is wool. Wool bed toppers are breathable and add cushioning to firm mattresses, and their antimicrobial properties mean they can even protect your bed from dust mites and beg bugs.

While expensive and don't come in firmer options, wool mattress toppers are incredibly durable and can last up to 10 years. However, like all toppers, you should replace it as soon as you see signs of wear and tear or if you feel it's not supporting your body enough. 

Feather or down toppers

How long do feather or down toppers last?

• Read more: I bought a microfiber bed topper to soften up a firm mattress and it was a huge mistake — here's why

While they provide a luxurious, breathable, and ultra-soft sleep surface, feather or down toppers are actually inexpensive. However, if you're planning on buying a topper with feather or down stuffing, please make sure that it is ethically sourced. You can also buy down alternative toppers, which are not derived from birds but mimic the texture of real down feathers. 

Feather and down toppers may provide luxe softness to a firm bed at an affordable price, but they are prone to ear and tear which means that they don't last very long. In fact they may need replacing as frequently as every year. 

A mattress topper is the best way to quickly upgrade your mattress. Which mattress topper is the best depends on a few factors, such as your individual sleep needs and what mattress you currently have. 

Over time even the best mattress can start to lose it’s comfort levels and need a little help. A mattress topper can help to transform your sleep by adding an extra layer of both comfort and support. 

In this guide, we will walk you through how the best mattress toppers can help you sleep better. Whether your mattress is too soft, too firm or gets too warm, there’s a topper that will be able to solve your problems. We will also share with you three of the best mattress topper deals on the market right now so that you can just concentrate on getting the best nights sleep. 

What is a mattress topper

A mattress topper is an extra layer of cushioning that sits directly on top of your mattress. If your mattress is old or lost some of it’s bounce then mattress toppers are a great way to improve the comfort and feel of your mattress without having to buy a new one. 

Typically, mattress toppers range between two and four inches in thickness. The thicker the topper the more cushioning and pressure relief they offer. However, a mattress topper that exceeds four inches will likely feel too squashy and may make it tricky to shift positions. 

Toppers also come in a range of materials such as foam, latex, cotton and wool. The type of material the mattress topper is made from can make all the difference to it's functionality. For example, memory foam is good for contouring, whilst wool is great for temperature regulation. 

Mattress toppers can make a huge difference in how well you sleep because aside from increasing comfort levels they can also help to regulate temperature and reduce motion transfer.

• Read more: Should you buy a mattress topper or a new mattress? 

5 ways a mattress topper could help you sleep better

1. You often wake up hot 

If you're prone to waking up in a hot sweat, a mattress topper with cooling properties can stop you from overheating. Look for toppers that have a layer of gel-infused memory foam, which will draw heat away from the body and leave you feeling cool. 

Mattress toppers crafted from organic materials, such as wool or latex, will regulate temperatures naturally. You also may want to consider a topper that has a removable top cover, that way if you do find yourself waking up feeling hot and sweaty, you can easily remove it for washing leaving your bed feeling fresh. 

2. You suffer from back and hip pain 

If you wake in the morning feeling achy (and you never used to) then it is most likely the fault of your mattress. Over time, age and wear to a mattress means that they lose their supportive qualities. If your mattress is sagging or lumpy then you’re not going to have proper spinal alignment, which can lead to back and hip pain. 

A mattress topper can help rectify that. Choose a topper that is made from either memory foam or latex, these are known for their pressure-relief properties and will offer support in all the right places. Also, if you’re a back sleeper then the memory foam will give you a slightly firmer surface which will do your aches and pains the world of good.

3. Your mattress is too firm 

If your mattress is too firm then it could be causing you discomfort, especially is you sleep on your side. A mattress topper can help to soften up your existing mattress by adding an extra soft layer on your sleeping surface. Choose a material such as gel memory foam to soften up your bed if its too firm and opt for a toper with a depth of at least two inches. 

4. Your mattress is too soft 

As with a mattress that is too firm, it's also possible that your mattress is too soft. A mattress that is too soft may cause your spine to dip out of alignment, which is a recipe for back pain. The addition of a mattress topper can increase the firmness, helping you to sleep soundly - and pain free. High-density foam is usually the best option, as this will offer you the best possible level of support whilst making your mattress firmer.   

5. Allergies are keeping you awake 

A mattress topper can help act as a barrier between you and your mattress which therefore reduces your exposure to allergens such as dust mites, pet dander, and pollen that may be lingering in your mattress. 

A mattress topper that is made from hypoallergenic materials like certain foams and latex can keep allergens from causing irritations as you sleep. Mattress toppers are also easier to clean than mattresses. It’s also worth looking out for covers that are infused with antimicrobial agents such as bamboo or organic cotton, these are natural allergen resistant and are often more plush too.

3 best mattress topper deals to shop today

The best mattress toppers for back pain can provide your mattress with additional support, helping to keep your spine correctly aligned and relieving aches and pains. Sleeping on the wrong type of mattress can worsen existing back pain and even cause painful new ailments. However, the right mattress topper can go some way to rectifying this, helping to provide you with the targeted lumbar support you need in order to get a decent night’s sleep.  

Quality sleep is crucial to our overall health, but back pain is one of the biggest disruptors of our rest. Whether you’re struggling to get comfortable or are repeatedly waking up throughout the night in agony, a mattress topper is a cost effective way of providing some back pain relief. But where to start? Just like the best mattresses, the best mattress toppers vary from product to product. From firmness level, material, and primary function, each mattress topper is different, which means that they won’t all be a suitable solution to your back pain. 

As sleep experts and highly experienced mattress testers, we picked the Saatva Graphite Mattress Topper as the best mattress topper for back pain, thanks to its lumbar support, pressure relief and temperature regulation. However, starting at $325 for a twin, the Saatva Graphite sits firmly in the premium price category. So if you’re still on the hunt for the best mattress topper for your back pain, we have identified five common mistakes people make when shopping. Let’s take a closer look. 

1. You're going on price

At Tom’s Guide, we value getting the best price possible for our sleep products and make it our business to stay across the latest mattress sales. However, the cheapest mattress topper won’t necessarily make it the best mattress topper — and the most expensive mattress topper won’t automatically make it the best mattress topper, either. 

Always buy the best mattress topper you can afford, but be led by product specification rather than the price tag. The key things to look out for are firmness levels, depth, and materials. A thin, unsupportive mattress topper with the latest in cooling technology won’t provide any relief to your back pain. 

2. It doesn't have the right support

Tackling the root cause of back pain is complex, but one thing all back pain sufferers have in common is the need for a supportive sleep surface. In order to keep your spine in correct alignment and to avoid putting it under further strain, a mattress topper can help bolster your current mattress’s support level. 

However, in order to garner the best pain-relieving results, your mattress topper needs to suit your specific sleep needs. That means, if your back pain is made worse because your mattress is too soft, you should choose a mattress topper with a firmer support level. If your firm mattress is putting too much pressure on sensitive body parts, opt for something a little softer. The best mattress for back pain is usually medium to firm, but there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution here.

3. It's the wrong material

Like mattresses, mattress toppers come in a range of different materials. The material can dictate the mattress topper’s key function, so it’s important that you’re aware of what you’re buying. The best mattress toppers often come in a combination of different materials to provide a variety of different benefits. Mattress topper materials include: 

Memory Foam – Memory foam toppers react to your body heat to mold to your body to help provide pressure relieving support. Memory foam toppers are great for those who want that typical ‘sink in’ feel, but be warned — memory foam is prone to retaining heat, so hot sleepers looking for a memory foam mattress might require additional cooling properties.

Gel-infused – If a mattress topper is gel-infused (or charcoal or graphite), you know that its primary function is to be cooling as these materials are known for their heat-wicking properties. While this doesn’t necessarily mean that it won’t be good for your back pain (the Saatva Graphite is our top choice of the best mattress toppers for back pain), ensure that it also has the depth and support level that you require.

Latex – Natural latex is bouncy and breathable — and expensive. However, latex is known for its durability, so a latex mattress topper will likely last longer than other mattress toppers. Latex also makes it easier to change position easily, which is crucial for back pain sufferers.

Synthetic Filled – Usually made from either hollow fiber or microfiber, these toppers are generally slightly cheaper than other materials. Microfiber toppers are usually soft, but are great for allergy sufferers.

Wool – Wool toppers are often organic, and wool is a naturally temperature regulating material. A wool topper is durable and provides a softer feel to the topper, keeping you cool in the summer and cozy in the winter.

4. You've bought a pad instead of a topper

Mattress toppers range between two and four inches deep and have the potential to completely alter the support and comfort level of your mattress. Although mattress pads might look similar, they don’t provide the same level of support or deep layer of cushioning. Mattress pads are cheaper and are designed to add a layer of plushness to your existing mattress, but won’t provide any meaningful pressure relief or spinal support for back pain sufferers. You can read more about the key differences between mattress pads and mattress toppers in our mattress pad vs mattress topper comparison piece.  

5. What you really need is a new mattress

Mattress toppers are an excellent way to prolong the life of your current mattress, as well as providing additional lumbar support and deep layer of cushioning for a new mattress that doesn’t quite meet your comfort needs. However, even the best mattresses have a shelf life, and if yours is showing signs that it needs replacing — such as dipping or sagging — it might be a better idea to skip to mattress topper altogether and invest in a new mattress. 

We recommend replacing your mattress every six to ten years, so if yours is already older than that, it might be time to start shopping for a new mattress instead. If you don’t have the budget for a new mattress right now, a mattress topper will certainly help relieve back pain symptoms in the short term - but it won’t be a lasting solution to a mattress that needs replacing.  

Bed toppers are affordable and increasingly advanced, so you might be wondering if you can use a mattress topper as a mattress. While sleeping on just a mattress topper might save you money it won't save you from back pain, so we only recommend it as a temporary solution.

The best mattress toppers we've tested can alter the feel of your bed, as well as bringing some life to an old mattress. Even the best mattress of 2025 can potentially benefit from a topper as it ages.

However, toppers are significantly thinner than a mattress and this lack of support means we only recommend using a bed topper as a mattress in the short-term. In this guide, we'll explore when a bed topper can be used as a mattress, plus why this isn't a long-term sleep solution.

Toppers are cheaper than mattresses, but regular mattress sales can help you save on an appropriate sleep set-up — and you might be surprised by how many good cheap mattresses are available.

Can you use a mattress topper as a mattress?

Sleeping on a mattress topper instead of a mattress can be comfortable, but only on a short-term basis.

Mattress toppers (also known as bed toppers) are used to add comfort, support or temperature control to your existing mattress. They're designed to work alongside your bed to enhance the feel, not to be used in place of a mattress

Mattress toppers generally measure between one and four inches tall (any smaller than that and you're looking at a mattress pad.) That's significantly under the 10-inch mattress thickness we recommend for an adult.

Sleeping for eight hours a night on a mattress topper alone will not provide the support or comfort you need on a long-term bases. Without proper support, you're likely to experience aches and pains, sending you in search of the best mattress for back pain.

What’s more, sleeping on a topper in lieu of a mattress may void the warranty of your mattress topper, as well as reducing its overall lifespan.

However, as a short-term solution, sleeping on a mattress topper instead of a mattress is generally okay. If you've ever tried sleeping on a camp bed, or the floor, you'll known that some padding is better than nothing. And that's primarily what the mattress topper provides in this scenario — some padding.

When buying a mattress topper to use as a temporary bed, we recommending opting for a firm topper made from dense latex foams or thick memory foams. This will ensure your spine is at least getting some support and relief.

• Read more: The best mattress toppers for college dorm beds 2025

When to use a mattress topper as a mattress 

A mattress topper can be used instead of a mattress on a short-term basis only. We recommend using a topper with a minimum depth of two inches, otherwise, you'll be able to feel the floor or bed base beneath you.

Camping trips or overnight stays are two reasons you need to sleep on just a topper. Other scenarios where a mattress topper could be used as an alternative to a mattress include:

• Unexpected overnight guests and you don't have a spare bed
• You’re camping and want to add cushioning to your camp bed
• You’re waiting for a new mattress to be delivered and don’t want to sleep on the couch
• Your child is sick and you need to sleep on their bedroom floor to be near them
• You're moving house and waiting on a new mattress
• You're traveling and want a transportable solution for different spaces
• You can't navigate the stairs to your bedroom, after surgery or an injury for example

Why you shouldn't use a mattress topper as a mattress long-term

1. There will be little to no pressure relief 

Mattresses contain cushioned or responsive layers that cradle the body to relieve pressure at the touch points (where your body pushes into the bed.)

The upper comfort layers are primarily responsible for this relief, and while the level varies based on sleep position and preference (the best mattresses for side sleepers tend to have more cushioning than the best stomach sleeper mattresses) all mattresses contain some contouring to reduce pressure.

Without this relief, you may quickly develop pain at the touch points, as the thin cushioning is unable to distribute your weight evenly.

Worse still, you might sink straight through the topper and find yourself pressing against the hard floor or frame beneath.

2. You won't get the support your spine needs 

Mattresses use multiple layers of materials to create support, ensuring your spine is held in neutral alignment and your lumbar is gently cradled.

A mattress topper is much thinner than a mattress and not equipped to keep your spine in alignment. It lacks the depth to keep the entire body held at the correct angle.

Instead, whatever you have beneath the topper is likely to provide the majority of the support. And as we've already discussed, this means minimal pressure relief.

 3. Toppers don’t last as long as mattresses 

Mattress toppers are designed to work in conjunction with a mattress and not be used as a standalone product. Using a bed topper alone is likely to void your warranty.

In addition, the average mattress topper lasts around three years, far below the typical mattress lifespan of seven to 10 years. And using a mattress topper by itself is likely to reduce that durability, as they aren't designed to solely support your weight for a prolonged period of time.

This means the sagging and sinking that happens as a mattress ages is likely to afflict your bed topper sooner rather than later, deteriorating support and increasing discomfort.

Budget alternatives to using a topper as a mattress

If cost concerns are driving you to consider a mattress topper instead of a mattress, our best cheap mattress guide features our expert-chosen affordable bed picks, including queen mattresses under $300.

The Siena is our number one cheap mattress pick and in our Siena Memory Foam Mattress review we found this budget bed offers impressive support. Check out our Zinus Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress review for another affordable choice.

And you might be surprised to learn that a high-quality mattress topper can often rival a budget mattress in terms of price. The Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt mattress topper, for example, is comparable to the Zinus and it lacks the same level of long-term support.

Opting for a mattress over a mattress topper as a permanent sleep solution will make a huge difference to your ongoing sleep quality, as well as your physical health.

From sagging to trapping heat, your current mattress might not be supporting you in the way it should. If you don't have budget for a new bed, a mattress topper is a superb half-way house, but what do mattress toppers do exactly? Here we look at five key facts about bed toppers and expel a couple of myths along the way (think they can't be washed? Think again).

Some toppers share have many materials and features in common with the best mattresses on the market, and our guide to the best mattress toppers walks you through this year's top-rated options. We're hoping to see a lot of them pop up among the Black Friday mattress deals with decent price drops too. 

Different bed toppers serve different purposes. Some can make your firm mattress feel softer, while others can make your memory foam bed cooler on hot nights. Read on to find out what do mattress toppers do (including can you use mattress toppers as a mattress), whether they can help with back pain, and how to wash and care for them. 

What do mattress toppers do?

A mattress topper is an extra layer that you can put on top of your mattress. Mattress toppers can change a mattress’s height, firmness, support, or temperature. They can be used on top of an older, thinning mattress to give it a cost-effective reboot, or to fix a certain issue with a new mattress. Toppers come in all shapes, sizes, and materials, and they also serve different functions.

Just like the best memory foam mattresses, memory foam toppers provide pressure relief, while latex or wool toppers are breathable and durable. Overall, toppers are great for those who want to revive their old mattress, change the firmness level or add extra cooling clout.

Toppers aren’t suitable for everyone though. Each type of mattress topper has its pros and cons, and are great for some sleepers but exacerbate issues for others. Some toppers (such as memory foam) can trap heat or trigger allergies, while people with a mattress older than a decade should probably replace their mattress instead of trying to fix it with a topper.

• Octasmart Deluxe Mattress Topper review 2024

Why you should buy a topper this Black Friday

If you need more support and comfort from your current mattress but can't budget for a new bed just yet, a mattress topper is an excellent way to enjoy a more comfortable night's sleep without having to haul in a whole new mattress. The forthcoming Black Friday deals and sales are a great way to get a good topper for a much cheaper price, with up to 40% off leading models.

1. Mattress toppers can help with back pain

If you sleep on your side or weigh less than 130 lbs, a good topper can relieve pressure points and soothe joint and back pain. Look out for the best memory foam toppers, which soften firm beds and add a body-contouring feel. Latex toppers are also great for back pain, as they have similar relieving properties to memory foam but are hypoallergenic and eco-friendly. 

They also have cooling properties, but natural latex toppers do tend to be expensive. Our Tempur-Adapt Mattress Topper review looks in-depth at this super-popular memory foam topper, which is an excellent (and cheaper) alternative to latex for side sleepers seeking softness.

In terms of firmness, go for medium-firm or firm toppers. While a cloud-like softness can alleviate back pain in lightweight and side sleepers, it can cause spine misalignment in heavyweight sleepers (weighing over 250lbs) and those who sleep on their stomach.  If you go for a firm bed topper, it can make your mattress less soft and realign your spine, soothing any lower back problems. When creating our ViscoSoft Active Cooling Mattress Topper review, this topper is ideal for adding firmness to a soft bed, and should suit both back and stomach sleepers.

2. Great mattress toppers can last up to five years

Mattress toppers don’t tend to last as long as the best mattresses in a box (which usually have a lifespan of 10 years). While high quality toppers, such as those made fro premium natural latex, can last as long as cheap mattresses (around three to five years), cheaper toppers made from foam may only last a couple of years at best.  

This means that toppers are a great stopgap if you’re not in a position to buy a new mattress, but are not a great long-term solution if your decade-old mattress is thinning and lumpy. 

3. Mattress toppers can be washed

One of the benefits of a mattress topper is that it’s much easier to clean than a mattress, and provides a protective barrier against dirt and dust to keep your mattress fresh. Some toppers come with a removable, machine-washable cover. For a good example of this, read our Lucid Gel Memory Foam Topper review. 

However, luxury bed toppers, such as the Saatva Topper (take a look at our Saatva Graphite Memory Foam Mattress Topper review), are spot clean only. You can easily do this with a damp cloth or mild cleaning detergent, as per the manufacturer's instructions. Our guide on how to clean a mattress topper walks you through the process.

4. Mattress toppers can make a bed firmer or softer

Toppers made from latex and other natural materials can offer a firmer feel to soft mattresses, as we explain in our Turmerry Organic Latex Mattress Topper review. The Tumerry, for example, comes in four different firmness levels, including Extra Firm. Some gel-infused memory foam toppers can also add firmness. On the other hand, plush and contouring materials such as wool and even feathers can add softness to firmer mattresses. 

5. Mattress toppers can warm you up and cool you

While toppers made from memory foam (such as the Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt topper) have a reputation for trapping heat and causing night sweats, some memory foam is infused with cooling materials such as gel, charcoal, graphite, and copper. 

The Molecule CopperWELL Mattress Topper is a copper gel-infused memory foam topper that has excellent temperature regulation to keep you cool. On the other hand, The Saatva Graphite Mattress Topper uses graphite-infused memory foam for a cooler sleep experience.  

Mattress toppers can provide instant comfort and help to extend the life of an aging mattress – even the best mattresses don't have an infinite lifespan. Investing in one of the best mattress toppers can completely change the sleep feel of your mattress, with different thicknesses and firmness ratings to choose from. If you think a topper could be for you, here are the questions to consider.

1. Is it actually a topper I need?

Also known as a bed topper, this is a thick layer that sits on top of your mattress, sometimes with straps or an elasticated skirt to anchor it in place on the bed. Anecdotally, there's a slight difference in the market in the US versus the UK. Most US toppers seem to be made of memory foam or occasionally latex foam, while in the UK synthetic fibre-stuffed toppers are very common. (We'll get more into the different filling options in the next section.) These are popular among people wondering whether you can use mattress toppers as a mattress.

However, a topper is a different thing from a mattress protector. These are thin covers, purely designed to protect your bed from spills and stains, and provide an easily washable top layer. Head to our best mattress protector roundup for our top picks. 

A mattress topper is also a different thing from a mattress pad. As we explain in our mattress topper vs pad comparison article, these are a padded layer designed to add cushioning to a mattress but without completely changing the sleep feel like a topper will do. They sit somewhere between a protector and a topper when it comes to thickness (they're often around 1-inch thick). They're not really a thing in the UK, but they are in the US. 

2. What material should I choose?

Mattress toppers are available in a range of materials, and there's no one material that's better than others – you should pick a topper made from material that will best suit your sleeping style. These are the most common materials you'll come across:

Memory Foam – Used widely to make many of the best mattresses in a box, memory foam toppers mold to your body to help relieve pressure on your joints. They do tend to retain heat, however. (Example: Casper Comfy Mattress Topper pictured in the hero image for this article.)

Gel-infused – If you're a hot sleeper look for a topper made with gel-infused foam to help keep your body temperature lower while you sleep. You can also look for toppers infused with charcoal or graphite as both can help to draw heat away from the body. (Example: Saatva Graphite Mattress Topper review).

Latex – Natural latex is bouncy and breathable, as well as being durable. A latex topper will last for longer than other materials and is ideal for those who want to be able to change position easily. They are often fairly expensive though. (See our Naturepedic Adagio Organic Latex Mattress Topper review.)

Synthetic Filled – Usually made from either hollow fiber or microfiber, these toppers are generally slightly cheaper than other materials. Microfiber toppers are soft, with hollow fiber offering a little more support. These materials are also great for allergy sufferers.

Wool – Wool toppers are often organic, and wool is a naturally breathable material. A wool topper is durable and provides a softer feel to the topper.

3. What am I buying a mattress topper for?

Why do you want a mattress topper? Asking yourself this question will help you pick the right topper for your requirements. These are the main reasons people buy toppers:

• To prolong the life of an older mattress by adding an extra layer of padding
• To soften up and help break in a new mattress
• To boost the comfort of a thinner mattress
• To change the feel of a mattress, making it softer, firmer, cooler etc.

4. How thick should my mattress topper be?

Mattress toppers range greatly in thickness, but generally they're 2-4 inches. We wouldn't recommend anything under two inches though, as it's unlikely to provide any extra support or cushioning. A happy medium is around 3 inches, where your pressure points will be supported. A two-inch topper can still provide a little cushioning but may be of more use just to change the 'feel' of your mattress a little.

Some people may enjoy a much thicker topper, but there is the risk here of sinking too deeply into the topper and feeling a little trapped. This can also make changing position quite challenging and could lead to you overheating.

5. What features should I look for?

Besides choosing a topper that's made from the right kind of material and is thick enough to suit your sleeping style, there are other factors to consider. On the material front, do consider whether you're looking for a topper to keep you cool at night or provide more insulation. 

It's not uncommon for memory foam toppers to just sit on top of a mattress, with no method of attachment. If you're a very restless sleeper, we'd recommend looking for one with straps or an elasticated skirt to keep it in place. Alternatively, you can add a mattress protector on top and use this to anchor the topper in place – just make sure its deep enough the fit around both your mattress and your topper.

You also need to think about the care of your mattress topper. Figuring out how to clean a mattress topper isn't always straightforward. Check the care instructions to figure out what the deal is before you buy – some toppers are spot clean only, others have removable and machine-washable covers (some have removable covers that aren't machine washable, which is an interesting choice to watch out for). Some thinner toppers with stuffing might be suitable to put in the washing machine in their entirety, assuming they'll fit. 

If cleaning isn't straightforward, we'd recommend adding a mattress protector on top to keep it free from stains and dust mites, and air the topper regularly to help keep it fresh.

6. Will a topper help with aches and pains?

If you're waking up with aches and pains, your mattress could be causing you problems. Whilst by no means a permanent solution, a good quality mattress topper could alleviate the pains for a while. Remember though that eventually, your mattress will need replacing.

The choice you go for depends on the type of pain you're experiencing. If you're sinking too far into your mattress your spine will no longer be in alignment, which will cause back pain over time. A firmer mattress topper can help to straighten your spine out (our advice of the best type of mattress for back pain has more advice). 

Of course, if your mattress is too firm, that can cause pain too, as a result of pressure buildup. In this case, a softer, plush topper will help you sink in further and make your body less sore at pressure points. Something like the Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt topper excels at cushioning sore joints. 

7. Do I actually need a new mattress?

There comes a point where no mattress topper is going to disguise the fact that your mattress needs replacing. Different types of mattresses have slightly different lifespans (we explore more in our article on how long does a mattress last), but there are also other key signs that suggest it needs replacing, even with a topper on top:

• Your mattress has turned yellow with age
• Your mattress has tears or sinks in various places, particularly around the edges
• Your mattress is saggy and unsupportive
• Any slight movement from your partner wakes you up
• You've noticed an increase in allergies or asthma symptoms

A mattress topper, aka mattress pad, is an extra layer that lies on top of your mattress, boosting its height, cushioning and support. In this way, the best mattress toppers can help you get a better night's sleep, especially if you have an old, tired, or unusually thin mattress. 

That said, even the best mattress can be improved in this way. And given the relatively affordable price of toppers, that makes them quite the bargain. You can pick up a cheap toppers, like the Linenspa Gel Memory Foam Mattress Topper, for under $50.

Note, though, that a mattress topper is a different thing from a protector – the latter are thinner, and specifically designed to protect your mattress from dirt, dust, germs, spills, bedwetting and other issues. Many are water-resistant or waterproof. (Head to our best mattress protectors roundup for our top picks, or see our mattress protector vs mattress topper explainer for more info.) With mattress toppers, in contrast, the focus is less on protection and more on providing extra comfort. 

Recently there's also been a trend for pillow-top mattresses, where a mattress topper is essentially sewn onto the mattress, to add a luxurious, soft upper layer (our #1 best mattress, the Saatva Classic, has a pillow top). While an all-in-one approach is a clean solution, one potential benefit of going for a separate topper over a pillow-top mattress, is that if this layer does start to dip or flatten over time, you can replace it. That isn't an option with a sewn-on pillow top.

With all that in mind, let's dive further into the topic of what a topper actually does for a mattress.

1. It makes your night more comfortable

We'll start with the obvious: adding a mattress topper is designed to make your sleep experience more comfortable. So if you don't absolutely love the sleep feel of your current mattress, it's definitely worth considering. That's especially the case if you have a cheap, thin mattress, as the extra depth and support that a topper adds can make it a deeper and more comfortable overall. 

2. It can make your mattress softer or firmer

Specific mattress toppers can also fix specific comfort issues. For example, do you have a soft mattress that you'd prefer was firmer and more supportive? A memory foam topper can mould around your body more precisely, and provide an extra level of pressure relief. Our favourite is the Tempur-Adapt Mattress Topper.

Memory foam is also good for couples who toss and turn a lot, as it provides extra motion isolation. Be aware that some memory foams can trap body heat – opt for one with temperature-regulation properties built-in (head to our ViscoSoft Active Cooling Copper Topper review for an example), or consider something like a latex topper if you know you sleep hot. 

What about the opposite situation: your mattress gives you the firm support you need for your back, neck and shoulders, but lacks softness? In this case, too, adding a mattress topper can also even things up. 

Here, mattress toppers that incorporate wool, feathers or polyester fillings will be a better choice. We particularly love the Birch Plush Organic Mattress Topper, which is made using organic cotton, organic wool, and natural latex. It's quite expensive, though, so if you're on a budget, the Pure Brands Down Alternative Mattress Topper Pad, which is filled with breathable microfiber, provides a more affordable way of softening the top of your mattress. 

3. It revives an aging mattress

If you have an aging mattress that's lost its plumpness, adding a mattress topper can revitalize it and add a new lease of life, saving you the cost of buying a new mattress (although be aware that this market is packed with regular mattress sales, which means opting for a new bed might not be as expensive as you thought). Of course, sleep is so important we'd never advise compromising on your long-term comfort, just to save a few bucks. If you simply can't afford a new mattress right now, though, a topper is great stop-gap until you can. Especially in the case of guest beds that are only used sporadically. 

4. It keeps your mattress clean and hygienic

Although a mattress topper isn't designed specifically to protect your mattress in the same way a waterproof mattress protector would, for instance, it does still do a lot to keep your mattress clean, fresh and hygienic. If you think about it, the majority of dirt, dust and infestations are still going to reach your mattress topper before they reach the mattress, which means it can provide a very effective barrier to stop your mattress getting dirty. 

Of course, there's nothing to stop you using both a mattress topper and a mattress protector, for the ultimate combination of protection and comfort. A benefit of this approach is that a mattress protector super easy to wash – you'll almost always just be able to bung it into a washing machine when it could do with a freshen-up. If you're not using a protector, head to our article on how to clean a mattress topper for tips on keeping that hygienic over time (there's a separate guide to how to clean a foam mattress topper specifically).

5. It increases your mattress' lifespan

While mattress toppers aren't cheap, over time they can pay for themselves, by taking pressure off your mattress, preventing sagging and stopping it getting worn down so quickly. This increases your mattress' lifespan, and saves you the bother and expense of replacing it. So if you think about it, not buying a mattress topper is kind of a false economy.

Mattress toppers add comfort, support and even an extra lease of life to any mattress. They also add an extra layer between you and your mattress, so they end up bearing the brunt when it comes to a buildup of dust, sweat, dead skin cells and the occasional spill or accident.

But that means it's essential you know how to clean your mattress topper properly. So, if you've invested in one of the best mattress toppers, it deserves some TLC. You don’t need to deep clean it every week but some regular maintenance will help keep bacteria, allergens, stains and smells at bay.

In this guide, we're walking through everything you need to know about cleaning your mattress topper, from quick cleaning hacks to deep stain removal.

Quick mattress topper cleaning hacks

Keep reading if you want a full in-depth guide on how to clean your mattress topper. But if time is short and you’re in a rush, here are some quick mattress topper cleaning hacks.

• Vacuum: Just like cleaning a mattress, you should vacuum your topper on a regular basis. Use the upholstery attachment to ensure you don’t cause any damage to the fabric or materials.

• Sprinkle with baking soda: Baking soda is a great way to deodorize your mattress topper. After vacuuming, sprinkle a generous layer on the surface and leave for a couple of hours, once it’s rested simply vacuum it up.

• Spot clean stains: Tackle stains as soon as you see them by spot cleaning with a mixture of water and white vinegar. Lightly spray the mixture and then blot dry with a clean paper towel.

• Air your topper: Don’t rush to pop your bed sheets back on once you’ve stripped them, instead, leave your mattress topper to air for a couple of hours. Place in a well-ventilated room and leave the air to circulate.

• Grab your handheld steamer: A quick blast of steam will kill any germs, freshen and sanitise your mattress cleaner. Just be mindful not to oversaturate your bed and always leave it fully dry before sleeping on it. If your mattress topper is made using memory foam, latex or organic materials, this method isn’t suitable.

How to clean a mattress topper: What you’ll need

You don’t need to invest in any fancy products to keep your mattress topper clean. You can achieve great results using some household staples. Here’s what you need to wash your mattress topper.

• Baking soda: This will help to absorb any excess moisture, deodorize funky smells and also help to lift stains.

• White vinegar: Acts as a stain remover (especially when used with baking soda) and also is a natural disinfectant.

• Hydrogen peroxide 3%: This will help to lift protein stains like urine, blood and sweat.

• Mild laundry detergent: Ideal for spot cleaning stains or hand-washing.

• A vacuum with an upholstery attachment: For removing surface dust and debris, always use the attachment to avoid damage to the mattress topper surface.

• Clean white microfiber cloths or paper towels: You’ll need these for blotting and drying. Use white to avoid any of the dye transferring on to your mattress.

• A clean spray bottle: The key to cleaning your mattress topper is not to get it too wet, so use a spray bottle to control the amount of moisture.

How to wash a mattress topper: Type of topper

Memory foam

Just like the best memory foam mattresses, memory foam toppers need special attention. Memory foam is super absorbent, which means it will soak up liquids quickly but dry slowly. Memory foam also doesn’t respond well to heat as it can degrade the foam so methods like steam cleaning are also a huge no-no. To clean a memory foam topper, follow these steps:

Step 1. Remove the sheets: Strip your bed, including your mattress protector.

Step 2. Vacuum the surface thoroughly: Using an upholstery attachment, vacuum the surface of your topper to remove any loose dust, debris and allergens.

Step 3. Spot clean any stains: Mix together a couple of drops of mild laundry detergent with some warm water and blot the stain. Then with a clean cloth dipped in cold water, just blot again to remove any detergent residue. Blot again with a clean, dry cloth to remove any excess moisture. Always leave the mattress to fully dry.

Step 4. Deodorize using baking soda: Sprinkle a layer of baking soda over your mattress topper and leave for around 4 hours, if you’re in a hurry you can vacuum it off after an hour but the longer you leave it, the better.

Step 5. Leave to air dry: Leave your mattress to fully air dry in a well-ventilated room. Remember not to use any heat (such as a hair dryer) to speed up the drying process as this will damage the structure of your topper.

Latex

Latex toppers are made from a natural rubber sap which is durable but sensitive to moisture, heat and harsh chemicals. So, just like memory foam, they need special attention.

Step 1. Remove the sheets: Strip your bed and lay the topper on a flat surface.

Step 2. Vacuum your mattress: Remember that latex can be sensitive so always use the upholstery attachment and vacuum the surface of the mattress to get rid of any debris.

Step 3. Spot clean stains: If you notice any stains, then grab a clean spray bottle and mix a few drops of mild detergent and cold water and spray the area being mindful not to over-saturate. Next get a clean cloth and dab at the stain to start lifting. If it’s a deep stain, massage in some baking soda and leave it to dry for around 20 minutes before wiping it away.

Step 4. Deodorize with baking soda: Sprinkle baking soda across the surface, you may want to add a few drops of essential oil before you spread it. Then leave to sit for around four hours before vacuuming to remove the powder.

Step 5. Air dry your mattress: Blot any excess moisture with a dry towel. Then leave your latex mattress topper to dry in a well-ventilated room. Keep your topper out of direct sunlight and away from heat (like radiators) but you could use a fan if you want to speed up the process. Depending on the thickness of your topper you may want to flip it to ensure it’s dry on both sides.

Organic

Organic toppers are made from natural materials like bamboo, cotton and wool, which means that they need a more delicate approach to washing.

Organic toppers can shrink, warp or clump together if cleaned too aggressively. Much like memory foam and latex, organic mattress toppers shouldn’t get too wet, and shouldn’t be exposed to heat or harsh chemicals.

Step 1. Remove your sheets: Remove all your bedding and set your topper flat in a well ventilated area. It’s best to remove it from your mattress so that you don’t risk any moisture seeping into the mattress.

Step 2. Vacuum both sides: Vacuum your mattress topper to remove any dust and debris that may be on the surface. Flip it over and do both sides. Remember to use the upholstery attachment so that it doesn’t damage the materials.

Step 3. Deal with stains: Mix together an equal part of water and white vinegar and apply to the stain. Blot gently to start lifting the stain before taking a clean, dry cloth and blotting again.

Step 4. Use baking soda: Using baking soda, sprinkle over the topper and leave it to rest for a couple of hours (ideally a minimum of four, but the longer you can leave it the better). This will help absorb any excess moisture and neutralise odors.

Step 5. Brush the topper: Using a soft bristle brush, work it around the topper to fluff up the fibers and restore the loft.

Step 6. Ensure the topper is dry: Organic toppers can take a long time to dry so make sure you give yourself plenty of time. You need to make sure your topper is fully dry before sleeping on it. Leave in a well-ventilated room and turn often so ensure it's dry on both sides.

Down

Down toppers can be a lot easier to clean as most are machine washable. However, just double-check the care label first as your particular brand could be blended with other materials. If you’re unsure, follow the steps above for an organic topper.

Step 1. Remove the bedding: Remove all bedding and place in the wash whilst you continue the cleaning process.

Step 2. Vacuum: Vacuum the surface to get rid of any embedded dirt and dust. Do this on both sides and make sure to use the upholstery setting. Once you’ve vacuumed it, remove it from the bed.

Step 3. Pre-treat stains: Deal with any stains by making a homemade cleaning paste. Mix together two tablespoons of baking soda with one tablespoon of water and a dash of white vinegar. Add more baking soda if your mixture is too runny. Apply this to the stain and gently massage it in before leaving it for around 30 minutes. Wipe off with a damp cloth and then blot dry.

Step 4. Wash on a gentle cycle: If your topper is machine washable, add to your machine and select a delicate or wool cycle. Use a small amount of detergent (around half the amount you’d use on a regular load). The water temp should be cold or lukewarm, never hot.

Step 5. Run a rinse cycle: Run your topper through a rinse cycle on cold water to make sure there’s no detergent left behind.

Step 6. Dry fully: Check the care settings but if your mattress topper is dryer-friendly then tumble dry on a low heat setting. Add two tennis or dryer balls to help it evenly dry and to fluff the down. Check and fluff your topper every 30-40 minutes.

How to clean a mattress topper: Removing stains

Urine

Urine stains can cause yellowing and bad smells, they can also be stubborn. But it’s important to tackle them as soon as possible.

Accidents happen so always remove as much liquid as possible when it first happens to avoid the stain becoming deep set.

1. Fill a spray bottle with equal parts white vinegar and water. Spray this on the stain and blot to remove any excess moisture as well as start to lift the stain.

2. Sprinkle baking soda over the damp area and leave for around six hours, but the longer you can leave it, the better.

3. Once the baking soda has dried, vacuum the area thoroughly.

If the stain isn't budging, try adding a couple of drops of mild detergent to hydrogen peroxide. Apply this to the stain and then blot the area to start lifting it. Then repeat the baking soda step before leaving the topper to fully dry.

Blood

One thing to remember when dealing with blood stains is they should always be treated with cold water, not hot. Hot water can push the stain deeper in to the fibers making it more difficult to remove.

1. Dab the stain with a clean microfiber cloth and cold water.

2. Apply hydrogen peroxide directly to the stain and leave it to work, you may notice it starts to fizz.

3. Blot the area dry with a clean cloth or paper towel.

After you’ve done this, next apply a generous layer of baking soda and leave it sit for around an hour, if you can, leave it longer. Then vacuum it away when it’s dry. If the stain is deep or old, you may have to repeat these steps a couple of times.

Vomit

You need a triple-pronged approach when cleaning vomit as you need to tackle the bacteria, the smell and the stain.

First thing you need to do is to get rid of any solids that remain on the topper. Do this with paper towels and don’t forget to use your gloves.

1. Spray white vinegar directly onto the stained area.

2. Blot dry and then using a mixture of water with a couple of drops of detergent, gently scrub at the stain. Don’t rub as you don’t want to risk pushing the stain out further.

3. Blot the area dry and then apply a layer of baking soda and leave to dry. This should be for at least four to six hours, but if you can, leave it longer.

4. Vacuum the baking soda and leave to air dry.

If the smell remains, you may want to spritz the area with rubbing alcohol. This will help sanitize the area, killing bacteria that could be causing the odors.

It also evaporates quickly, meaning it’ll dry fast. Just be wary of using it on materials like memory foam or latex.

Sweat

We sweat a lot whilst we sleep and even if you regularly change the sheets, that sweat will seep into the fabric of your mattress topper over time. This doesn’t just cause funky odors but also yellow stains.

1. Make a stain remover by mixing a 1/2 cup of hydrogen peroxide and a tablespoon of baking soda in a clean spray bottle.

2. Apply this directly to the stained area and leave for 30 minutes to an hour.

3. After it’s had time to sit, take a clean, dry cloth and start blotting to remove the excess moisture and lift the stain.

Leave your mattress topper to dry completely and air it by leaving it in a well-ventilated room with the windows open for a couple of hours. You will need to repeat this process weekly for stubborn sweat stain build-up.

How to remove bed bugs

Mattresses and mattress toppers are an ideal environment for bed bugs and dust mites to thrive. If you think you have an infestation, then first vacuum your mattress. Empty this outside into a sealed bag to prevent the spread of bed bugs around your house.

If your mattress topper isn't made with memory foam, steam clean it to kill any remaining live bugs and their eggs. If your topper is made from foam, leave it in direct sunlight for a few hours to kill bugs and eggs.

Remember that prevention is better than cure, so it’s best to invest in one of the best mattress protectors or encasements to keep your mattress topper protected. Also make sure to wash all bedding on a high heat to kill any eggs that may be on your sheets.

For large-scale infestations, you might need to get rid of your current mattress topper.

How to get rid of topper mold

Topper mold is often caused when your topper has been exposed to excess moisture or if it’s used in an environment where there is high humidity. Signs that you have mattress mold often include a musty smell that you can’t get rid of or dark spots.

If you suspect topper mold, deal with it as soon as possible by vacuuming both sides to remove any spores.

Then using a clean spray bottle spray a mixture of white vinegar and water and scrub with a clean cloth. Leave your topper to air dry full before putting it back on your bed.

The key is not to saturate your mattress topper as this can make mold even worse.If the mold is extensive or it keeps coming back, then it’s time to replace your mattress topper.

How to look after your mattress topper

Treat stains quickly

Never ignore stains on your mattress or your mattress topper. The longer you ignore a stain, the deeper it will set and the harder it will be to remove.

And they don’t just look unsightly, they can also cause damage to your mattress topper and your health.

The quicker you act, the better. Never use harsh chemicals either, you’re better sticking to natural solutions like baking soda and white vinegar for the best results.

Plus, remember never to rub a stain, as this will only spread it further and deeper. Also, opt for cold or luke warm water, as hot water can occasionally make a stain deeper.

Use a mattress protector

Accidents, spills, dead skin cells, sweat, body oils and more happen, and even if you change your sheets often, these can seep into the mattress topper below.

That’s why a mattress protector is essential and the first line of defence for your topper. This barrier, which can be waterproof and hypoallergenic, will shield your bed from damage.

Plus, most mattress protectors can be machine washed so they’re easy to keep clean. A good mattress protector won’t just help your mattress stay hygienic, it’ll also help improve the lifespan of your mattress and topper.

Vacuum often

We always advise vacuuming your mattress and your mattress topper, and it's for good reason.

Regularly vacuuming your mattress topper will lift any dust, debris, hair, pet dander and dead skin cells that can build up over time and cause stains and smells.

Vacuum your topper on both sides at least once a week using the upholstery tool. If you have time, you can sprinkle a layer of baking soda on and leave for at least four hours before vacuuming to freshen it up.

Vacuuming will maintain the freshness of your topper and help to reduce allergy symptoms.

A sleeper sofa is a space-efficient way to put guests up for the night and have somewhere to sit during the day. But the mattresses that come with sofa beds can be thin and uncomfortable.

Even the most luxurious sleeper sofa is unlikely to compete with the best mattresses on the market. But if you want your guests to wake up without aches and pains, you’ll need to add in some kind of comfort layer to help cushion their joints. The answer, of course, is to invest in one of the best mattress toppers available to help provide a more comfortable night’s sleep.

Not sure where to start? Read on for our guide on choosing the best mattress topper to suit your sleeper sofa, along with some extra tips on boosting comfort levels…

Can you use any size mattress topper on a sleeper sofa?

The short answer here is no, as you’ll need to pick the right size topper for your sofa bed. Trying to squash on a mattress topper that’s too large, or get away with one that doesn’t cover the whole mattress surface is just going to give your guests an uncomfortable night.

First things first – start by measuring the length and width of your integrated sofa mattress so that you can pick a mattress topper with dimensions as close to it as possible. Remember that if you’ve had your sofa bed for a number of years, it’s possible that the mattress will have shrunk slightly.

If this is the case, we’d suggest taking measurements from the inside of the frame that supports the sofa mattress instead. Alternatively, there are mattress toppers made specifically for sleeper sofas, which could be a better option if you’ve got a tricky size to cover.

How to choose a mattress topper for sleeper sofas

There are a few factors to take into consideration when you’re buying a mattress topper for your sleeper sofa. Let’s break these down…

Choose the right thickness

We’ve already mentioned the importance of buying the right size topper for your sofa bed but, in addition to thinking about height and width, you also want to think about the depth of your topper.

Mattress toppers can vary hugely in this department, with options from one to 10 inches. We’d recommend a topper of between two and four inches for a sleeper sofa. Any thinner, and guests won’t get much support or extra comfort. Too thick and guests can sink too deeply into the topper, struggling to move around and leaving them feeling a little trapped.

Choose the right materials

As with mattresses, bed toppers come in a range of materials that are designed to offer different qualities. In the main, you’ll be looking for a topper that adds more comfort to a thin mattress but also adds in some extra support.

One of the best memory foam mattress toppers could be a good choice, offering plenty of sink-in comfort and cradling. The downside is that these toppers can run hot, so be sure to look for one with added cooling elements such as graphite or gel or that use open cell perforated foam to promote airflow.

Alternatively, consider a naturally breathable latex topper, which will also add a bouncier feel to your sofa bed mattress. Latex is found in many of the best organic mattresses and is an extremely durable material, meaning you’ll get a longer lifespan out of this kind of topper.

How much do mattress toppers for sleeper sofas cost?

What you spend will depend on various factors – for instance, if you’ve just purchased a brand new sofa bed, you’ll be able to get away with a thinner topper of around two inches as you’re unlikely to need as much padding as you will with an older mattress.

Also bear in mind how often the sleeper sofa is used and whether it gets a lot of use by couples or those of a heavier weight. A frequently used sofa bed needs a thicker topper of around four inches. Finally, bear in mind the thickness of the integral mattress in your sofa bed. As with toppers, these can vary in depth enormously and the thinner this mattress is, the more padding you’ll want to add.

You don’t have to bankrupt yourself to buy a mattress topper, with some of the best cheap mattress toppers still providing plenty of comfort and support.

The Linenspa Memory Foam mattress topper starts from $44.99 at full MSRP on Amazon, but frequent offers mean you can usually pick up a twin for $39.99 instead, with a queen usually reduced to $53.99.

At the other end of the scale, our favourite topper is the Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt mattress topper but prices start from $299 for a twin (MSRP). Again though, this topper is frequently reduced on Amazon, meaning you can pick up queen Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt mattress topper for $230 at Amazon (was $419.) There’s also the option to upgrade to a cooling version if you’re a hot sleeper.

Other ways to make a sleeper sofa extra comfy

Unexpected guests and no time to buy a mattress topper? Don’t despair just yet – there are other ways to make a sleeper sofa more comfortable.

1. Plug gaps with pillows – Sofa beds are generally encased with a sturdy metal frame, but as mentioned above, the integral mattress can shrink away a little from this over time. An easy way to plug those gaps is with some squishy pillows. A decent pillow will not only fill empty spaces but will also add more support and comfort for a sleeper. Ideally, we’d recommend using adjustable pillows that your guests can make as shallow or deep as they require.

2. Invest in breathable yet cozy bedding – Sleeper sofas aren’t renowned for their generous proportions as beds, meaning that if you’ve got a couple sharing one, they’re likely to be in fairly close proximity to each other. And by sleeping closer together, there’s more likelihood that excess heat will build up. To help prevent this, make sure you use bedding made from natural fibres such as cotton, wool and bamboo. These fabrics are naturally breathable, helping to wick away heat and moisture from the body.

3. Sleep on a comforter – If you’ve already invested in one of the best comforters to help keep you cosy at night, it can also double up as a temporary alternative to a mattress topper on your sofa bed. Of course it’s not going to provide the support that you’ll get from a topper, but it will give your guests some extra padding and comfort that will hopefully give them a better night’s sleep.

Should you buy a new mattress or topper?

The vast majority of sofa beds come with either a thin innerspring or foam mattress. Innerspring mattresses tend to have a fairly short lifespan of five to seven years, so you might be wondering if it makes more sense to replace your sleeper sofa’s mattress if it’s getting to this age. While a memory foam mattress can have a lifespan of up to 10 years, that does depend on factors like quality, build and design.

In some cases it’s not possible to replace the mattress inside your sofa bed, meaning you’ll need to stick with a topper. But if you can replace the mattress, there are a few thinner mattresses in a box that you could consider.

We wouldn’t advise putting a heavy mattress on a sleeper sofa as you risk breaking the sofa bed’s frame and damaging the mechanisms. But if you are curious about buying a new lightweight mattress for your sleeper sofa, then take a look at the Zinus Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress, with prices starting at $399 (MSRP) for a twin at Zinus. Again, this mattress is generally on sale so you can expect prices to start at $249.

Whether you decide to go with a new mattress or topper it’s also important to check your sofa bed’s guidelines on total weight capacity (i.e. the people sleeping on it plus the mattress or topper) before you purchase anything. Your guests won’t be very comfortable if they end up with a broken frame and mattress sagging on the floor.

Read more:

• The best mattress for side sleepers
• Hotel luxury for less: the best Saatva mattress sales and deals
• Nectar mattress sales and deals: our expert guide
• Sleep calmer with the best weighted blankets

When it comes to a mattress protector vs mattress topper, it’s easy to confuse the two. In a nutshell, a protector is a thin layer that safeguards your bed against sweat, allergens, spillages and bugs. A bed topper is a thicker slab of memory foam or latex that can instantly alter the feel of your mattress, making it softer or firmer to suit your sleep.

If you have recently bought the best mattress for your sleep and budget, both the best mattress toppers and best mattress protectors can add extra comfort and protection — but in different ways.

Here go through some of the key differences between a mattress protector vs mattress topper, looking at price, function, design and comfort, as well as which one is the most suitable for your needs.

Mattress protector vs mattress topper: What is a bed topper?

• A mattress topper is usually 2-4” thick
• They can significantly alter the feel of an existing mattress
• They are usually spot-clean only, but some have washable covers

Bed toppers are a fast and affordable way to upgrade your existing mattress. So if yours is currently too firm, you might need the extra pressure relief from a thick memory foam or feather option. If you sleep hot yet don’t have the budget for one of the best cooling mattresses, a cooling topper will help regulate your in-bed temperature.

if you're wondering how thick a mattress topper should be, ideally it should be 2” to 4" thick. They are usually made with the same materials found in different mattresses in a box, such as memory foam or latex. Toppers rest on top of your mattress, with some having non-slip surfaces or elasticated straps to help keep it in place beneath you.

Using a good quality topper can extend the life of your mattress by a few years. However, they should not be used on aging or sagging mattresses, as they still need a decent foundation to help give your body the support it needs while you’re sleeping. If your current bed has seen better days, then there is no substitute for a brand-new mattress.

But if your existing bed is still in good condition, but you need a firmer surface to support your spine, then there are many foam mattress toppers that provide excellent support, while extra cushioning options deliver pressure relief for the knees, hips and shoulders.

If you're in the market for a mattress topper but unsure of what kind you need, read our ultimate guide on how to choose a mattress topper.

Mattress protector vs mattress topper: What is a mattress cover?

• A mattress protector safeguards against spills, dirt and allergens
• Most can be machine washed and dried
• They will not change the physical comfort of your bed

Mattress covers (protectors) are designed with fabric that is usually either waterproof or water-resistant. They are compatible with most beds and are vital if you want to keep your mattress in good condition for as long as possible.

In essence, they ensure you’re sleeping on a fresh, hypoallergenic surface - and one that’s often sweat-wicking. These thin yet hard-working fabric layers are fairly inexpensive, often starting from as little as $10. Regardless of how much you pay or how padded it is, a mattress protector will not alter the physical feel of your bed. So if you’re looking for extra support, cooling or softness, then you should pick a mattress topper instead.

Protectors can be used on all manner of beds, including hybrid and memory foam mattresses. It’s worth checking the depth of your mattress before you buy a mattress protector to make sure it will fit. Most use simple elasticated straps, or attach in the same way a fitted sheet would.

Mattress protector vs mattress topper: Differences

• Protectors provides hygiene; toppers provides comfort
• Protectors are thinner and are machine washable
• Toppers are thicker and normally spot-clean only

A mattress protector is essential, while a topper is optional. In other words, no matter what, you should use a protector to keep your bed in good condition. This is especially true if you have recently bought a new mattress, as you could risk voiding the warranty or blowing the terms of the trial period if you don’t keep it in good condition. Other key differences include the following...

Protectors fit over a mattress to create a barrier against sweat, allergens and spilled liquids. And while mattress toppers also provide protection, they come with the extra function of adding firmness, softness or cooling, to radically alter the feel of your bed. However, if you sleep hot, some mattress covers are made with cooling fabric.
Mattress protectors are thinner and are made from bedding fabrics such as cotton or polyester, with added waterproofing to prevent liquid seeping through. Bed toppers are typically made using the same foams as you'd find in a mattress, including memory or gel foam, in order to provide the added support needed to align or cushion the body. They are placed on top of your bed, while protectors offer a more snug fit with elasticated straps or fabric sides that pull down just like a fitted sheet.

While it's easy to clean a mattress protector, as they can often often be washed in the machine, the process of how to clean a mattress topper (and how to clean a foam mattress topper) is typically more involved. They can't usually be thrown into a washing machine, although some toppers do come with removable washable covers.

Mattress protector vs mattress topper: Prices and key brands

• Toppers are more expensive than protectors
• Some toppers cost as much as a mid-range mattress
• Mattress protectors start from as little as $10

No matter your budget, there will be something within your price range, with the difference being in the quality, feel and performance. Mattress covers start at around $10 and are easy to pick up from Amazon, or you can look online to see what the likes of Casper, Nectar, Saatva or others have to offer.

Options from the bigger brands are often made with higher-quality materials and are designed to last longer, providing better resistance against wear and tear, and repeated washing, for years to come. This means you get better value for your money, even though you’re shelling out more to begin with.

It’s the same story for mattress toppers, which typically start from $50 on major retail sites like Walmart, Target and Amazon, with big-brand versions (think Tempur-Pedic or Saatva) running into the hundreds. If yours comes with extra features, such as rustle-free fabric, cooling tech or certified organic materials, as found in the best organic mattresses, then you should expect to pay extra.

Most mattress manufacturers offer risk-free trial periods, and some offer the same for their toppers, although this is far less common for protectors. There is usually a warranty, and free shipping too, though some brands and retailers ask that you spend a minimum amount to qualify for free shipping.

How much you spend is entirely up to you. If you are looking for something for occasional use for a guest bed, then a budget version is usually fine. But if you are looking for something robust that will cope with daily use, then it’s always worth spending a little extra, as it will be better value for your money in the long run.

Mattress protector vs mattress topper: Materials and design

• Mattress toppers are made from latex, memory foam and other materials
• Mattress protectors are normally made with a water-resistant fabric
• You can buy cooling and organic versions of both

Both products are designed to fit neatly according to your bed size. Protectors have a snug fit and attach securely with elasticated straps or in the same way as a fitted sheet, to keep them from shifting around.

Toppers usually sit on top of the mattress with no attachments, although some do have straps. If you’re worried about it slipping and sliding around, look for a mattress topper that has anti-slip coating. Or simply place a fitted sheet over the top to hold it in place.

The materials used to make each product varies. Most mattress protectors are made from fabrics such as organic cotton, bamboo-derived viscose or polyester, and have added waterproofing, and sometimes a thin layer of padding on top to add a little comfort. You can also get cooling mattress protectors made from heat-dissipating fabric, such as the GlacioTex one we tested in the Brooklyn Bedding Luxury Cooling Mattress Protector review.

Most bed toppers tend to use the same materials as mattresses, such as memory foam or latex, with many also boasting the same cooling tech such as graphite or gel-infused foam. You can also get bamboo mattress toppers, which have natural temperature regulation.

Mattress protector vs mattress topper: Which one should you buy?

Both protectors and toppers will keep your mattress in good condition for longer, whether it’s adding an extra layer of protection against wear and tear, sweat, urine and accidental spills.

However, if you are looking to transform the feel of your existing bed then a mattress topper is the only real choice, adding extra pressure relief, cooling or support depending on what you need. They come in a variety of sizes, prices and thicknesses, and can be used to make a hard bed softer, a soft bed firmer, and a hot bed a little cooler.

That said, a topper will never outperform a mattress protector at keeping your bed fresh and free from allergens. These fabric covers are also much easier to care for and can be washed much more frequently, making them a great choice for boosting your in-bed hygiene.

Read more:

• The best pillows for sleeping
• Sleep calmly with the best weighted blankets
• Get cozy with a snug comforter
• The biggest mattress sales from leading brands
• Should you flip your mattress topper?

When it comes to mattress pads vs toppers, both are designed to transform your bed to better suit the way you sleep, but they do so to different levels. There are also key differences when it comes to price and how long they last for (on average). Even the best mattresses sometimes need a helping hand in terms of support and comfort, which is why people often turn to a topper or pad.

The best mattress toppers are usually thicker than mattress pads and are the better option for boosting sleep comfort. But pads are cheaper and are a good value option for a guest bed that isn’t slept in so regularly.

Here we compare mattress pads vs toppers, looking at the benefits, common materials, design and prices to help you figure out which one you need. 

Mattress pads vs toppers: What are they?

• Pads and toppers increase in-bed comfort but to different levels
• Mattress pads are cheaper and easier to care for than toppers
• Toppers provide the highest amount of comfort and support

At first glance, it’s easy to confuse mattress pads and toppers as they have similar uses. Pads are cheaper than toppers and are a handy way to introduce a little more plushness to your bed, but not to the extent that the other would.

So mattress pads are designed to slightly alter the feel of your bed. They are usually around an inch thick and are available in different materials like feather, wool, latex and foam. For instance, if you need something soft and naturally breathable, wool is an excellent option.

Mattress toppers offer an excellent way to adapt your existing bed if you need a lot more pressure relief, cooling, softness or firmness. They are usually over one to four inches thick and are made with many of the same materials found in the top mattresses in a box, including foam and latex. Some will also have a layer of wool, feather or soft fiber for a pillowy surface. 

If your bed is too hard or too soft and is affecting your posture or giving you aches and pains, a topper can make a huge difference. If you sleep hot, pick one with cooling gel layers to help regulate your body temperature. This type of foam is often found in memory foam mattresses.

Both also help to protect your bed against accidental spills, allergens, sweat and dust mites. That said, we would still recommend investing in the best mattress protector you can afford.

Mattress pads vs toppers: Prices and key brands

• Mattress pads are normally always cheaper than toppers
• The thicker the pad or topper, the higher the price
• Some toppers come on a trial basis, but most pads don't

Mattress pads and toppers are available to suit all budgets, from affordable to luxury. Because pads use less material, they are generally cheaper. Plenty of big-name sleep brands make these accessories too, so you won’t be short on choice.

You can buy them relatively cheaply online as well as in stores, and how much you spend depends on what you need the product to do. For example, if you’re looking to make an older bed firmer and more supportive, then it pays to spend a little extra to get a thick topper (around four inches deep). If you’re only looking for a slight tweak on a newer mattress, a pad will do the trick and it’ll be cheaper for you. 

Key brands to look out for include Lucid and ViscoSoft. Some of our favorite luxury mattress brands also make a topper version, which can be a good way of capturing some of that brand's sleep feel and build quality for a lower price than a full mattress. Examples include Tempur-Pedic (see our Tempur-Adapt topper review), Saatva (see our Saatva Foam topper review and Saatva Graphite topper review) and Casper (see our Casper Comfy topper review). 

Mattress pads vs toppers: Key differences

• Toppers alter the feel of your mattress
• Pads are thinner so won't have such a dramatic impact
• Mattress pads can usually be machine washed

It can be easy to confuse these two products, but there are some key differences. If you need something to radically alter the feel of your bed (so making it softer or firmer), then a topper will be a smarter option for you. If you are looking for just a little extra touch of luxury or a slightly cozier feel, then a mattress pad will work and it will save you money too.

Because pads are thinner, they are less effective at protecting against spills, and liquid is more likely to seep through. However, mattress pads still offer some level of protection against spills, as well as protect against dust and allergens too. 

Also, a thin pad won’t deliver high levels of cushioning, so if you need pressure relief, go for a topper or even a new mattress. Mattress pads are easier to maintain, however you can still place a protector over your topper to keep it fresher for longer. Some also come with removable, machine washable covers.

• Read more: 5 signs that a bed topper is actually a mattress pad — and why that’s a problem

Mattress pads vs toppers: Main benefits

• Mattress pads add a little extra plushness
• Toppers add a lot more extra comfort and support
• Both offer some protection against stains, spills and sweat

Both accessories offer a level of protection against accidental spills, dust mites, sweat and allergens, but because mattress pads are thinner, they are less likely to offer as much protection. That said, pads can usually be machine washed – not all toppers can be – meaning your bed will remain fresher for longer.

Looking to change the surface of your bed to better suit your sleep and body? For just a touch more comfort, a mattress pad is the perfect solution because they add an instant layer of plushness. If you are looking to add a lot more comfort, cooling or support, always go for a topper.

Mattresses have an average lifespan of around six to eight years, depending on what they are made from. But new beds can take a while to feel as comfy as they should, so chances are you will definitely need the help of a pad or topper at some point. Learn more in our feature looking at how often should you replace your mattress.

Mattress pads vs toppers: Materials and design

• Toppers are normally made from foam, latex and wool
• Pads are normally made from cotton, feathers, wool and foam
• Both are fast and simple to fit over your mattress

Mattress pads and toppers come in the same standard sizes as mattresses and are designed to sit squarely on top. Most attach with corner straps that tuck under the mattress, while others attach in the same way as a fitted sheet. This stops them shifting around as you sleep.

What are they made from? When it comes to materials, there are plenty to choose from, depending on your needs. If you want something soft, try a pillow top pad, which are typically made using softer fibres like feathers and cotton. 

Looking for added firmness? Then go for a latex topper because these feel firmer and will support your posture better than a sink-in pillow top cotton and feather pad. Latex is also hypoallergenic, making it suitable for people with certain allergies.

Foam toppers are excellent for pressure point relief and often include cooling gel. If you’re looking for temperature regulation, organic wool will serve you well all year round, keeping you snug when it's cold and cool when the nights are warmer. See our best organic mattress guide for some great beds that use wool and latex.

Mattress pads vs toppers: Which should you buy?

If you are looking for a quick and easy upgrade for your current bed, then both mattress pads and mattress toppers are up to the job – to different extents. While pads are more portable and easier to care for, they provide less in the way of support and are instead designed to create a more plush surface to sleep upon. 

So if you want to radically alter the comfort and feel of your sleeping surface, then a topper is the way to go, as these can make a big difference if your existing bed is too firm or too soft.

A thicker model (around four inches) also protects your bed against wear and tear more than a thinner pad would, but the latter are a niftier solution if you need to quickly add warmth in the colder months or you need to freshen up a guest bedroom on a budget.

To increase your in-bed comfort, make sure you have the best pillow for your sleeping style too. And if you’re dealing with anxiety or restlessness in bed, take a look at our weighted blankets guide to learn how one could help you sleep better.

Read more:

• Our guide to the best Avocado mattress sales and deals
• Learn how to choose a mattress for your body
• Our guide to the biggest Casper mattress sales

Fancy some Tempur mattress magic for less? Then here’s your big chance as Tempur-Pedic is offering 20% off the Tempur-Topper Supreme, a revolutionary bed topper that's had more five-star reviews than Al Pacino in The Godfather. 

Update: this product has been continued – check out our Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt topper review for a closer look at our favorite alternative.

Not only can you save up to $178 with this deal, you’ll also get a free Tempur-Cloud Pillow worth $89. Quite frankly, that is ridiculously good value for money from one of the world’s best mattress brands for all-out sleep comfort.

We have seen a bigger, 40% discount on this model before (last Black Friday, to be precise), but Tempur didn’t bundle in the Cloud Pillow, so this deal is stellar. If you have ever laid on a Tempur bed in a fancy showroom, you’ll know how good these body contouring mattresses feel beneath weary bones. The Tempur-Pedic Topper Supreme gives you a big glug of that pressure relieving comfort for way less.

• Save up to 30% on select sleep products Tempur-Pedic
• Should you flip your mattress topper?

So that’s the good news. The bad? Because it’s America’s best mattress topper and it’s on sale and it comes with a free pillow, it’s selling out in every size. So you need to run like the wind (virtually) if you want to nab one and boost the comfort of your existing mattress for less. 

Bed toppers work their magic on older mattresses, but they can also make new beds feel comfier until you have properly broken it in. This Tempur-Pedic topper is excellent at its job and would suit anyone dealing with stiffness, aches and pains. How come? Tempur foam reduces pressure on high impact points such as your back, hips and knees, regardless of the position you sleep in. 

The Tempur-Topper Supreme usually comes in a range of sizes from twin to Cal king but, as mentioned above, it’s selling out fast so we’re down to just a few sizes now. We aren’t surprised, as this is one of the best Tempur-Pedic mattress sale offers we’ve seen on it in a while. 

Don’t forget, the Tempur-Topper Supreme has a removable cover for machine washing, so you can freshen it up every couple of months to keep allergens at bay. If you want to go a step further, draft in a good mattress protector to keep your bed safe from stains. These are especially useful if you have bought a mattress in a box and are using the trial period to see if it suits your body. 

If you've just started looking for a new topper and aren't sure where to start, these questions to ask before buying a mattress topper will help get you on the right track.

Read more:

• Save 40% with the best Emma mattress sales
• Go organic for less with our Avocado mattress deals round-up
• The best Saatva mattress sales and deals for luxury sleep fans
• We’ve found the best Nectar mattress sales for knock-out value

Now that May is in full swing, it's only a matter of time before we spot the first Memorial Day mattress sales. However, if you can't wait till then, ViscoSoft is offering some epic deals on its mattress toppers. 

For a limited time, you can get the ViscoSoft Active Cooling Copper Topper on sale for $199.77. That's $133 off and one of the best mattress topper deals we've seen. 

• shop all mattress toppers on sale at ViscoSoft

ViscoSoft makes one of the best mattress toppers you can buy. In fact, its Active Cooling Copper Topper holds a spot in our mattress toppers guide. It's especially great if you're a warm sleeper as it features a variety of materials to keep you cool at night. 

The mattress topper has a removable and washable fabric cover that deflects moisture. Meanwhile inside, you'll find two inches of antimicrobial copper-infused foam that helps regulate your temperature by transferring heat away from your body. There's also another two inches of support foam to relieve pain from pressure points. 

Make sure to follow our mattress deals coverage for the best discounts this month. 

April is renown for its bedding sales and mattress manufacturer Tempur-Pedic is kicking the month off with a massive discount on one of the best mattress toppers on the market. 

Through Monday, the Editor's Choice Tempur-Pedic Topper Supreme is on sale for $179. That's 40% off and one of the best mattress deals we've seen outside of any major holiday. 

Spring sale at Tempur-Pedic

A good mattress topper can breathe new life into your aging mattress by adding a new layer of support and comfort. It's a great alternative if buying the best mattress on the market is out of budget. 

We like the Tempur-Topper Supreme because it adds 3 inches of Tempur's proprietary foam to any mattress you already own. It's like getting a Tempur mattress, but without having to pay full price. The Tempur Topper Supreme also has a hygienic cover that helps keep it free of mold, allergens, and dust mites. You can also whip off the cover and throw it in the washer at anytime. Plus, it comes with an impressive 10-year warranty.

Make sure to follow our coverage of the best mattress topper deals for more discounts to help keep your mattress in shape, or if you're not sure where to start, these questions to ask before buying a mattress topper will help get you on the right track. Also, check out our Tempur-Pedic mattress sales for more discounts.