Do Mattress Toppers Make a Difference?
After a few years, you may notice your mattress isn’t quite as comfortable or supportive as before. It’s not completely worn out, but you are missing the days when jumping into bed felt like jumping onto a cloud. That is where a mattress topper comes in. These add ons make your mattress feel brand new, improving comfortability and expanding its lifespan for a much lower cost than a new mattress. And the benefits don’t stop there, here are some additional pros of investing in a quality mattress topper.
- Cleanliness: While you sleep you shed hair, skin and may get a little sweaty. Your fitted sheet protects your mattress from a lot of this debris, but some still gets through and overtime builds up. A topper helps prevent a lot of this debris from permeating your mattress, keeping it cleaner for longer. After all, it’s much easier and cheaper to replace a mattress topper than a whole mattress!
- Temperature regulation: There’s nothing worse than overheating in your sleep. If you get too hot even with the window open, a mattress topper with temperature regulation qualities will help keep you cool. This is also a great add on during the summer months, especially during a heatwave.
- Support and pain relief: Mattress toppers that support your spinal alignment and provide pressure relief will help alleviate back pain. This is an excellent option if your mattress isn’t providing the support you need.
Different Types of Mattress Toppers
- Memory Foam - Arguably the most common mattress topper, this popular choice is known for contouring the body to provide exceptional comfort and pain relief. The mattress team at Wowcher recommends this type of topper for those experiencing back pain, or those who want additional cushioning.
- Orthopaedic - Another foam option, orthopaedic mattress toppers are firmer than standard memory foam toppers. This structured support is great for seniors, people with joint or back pain, or athletes.
- Cooling Gel - Designed with a layer of gel, these toppers keep you cool throughout the night by absorbing your body heat. A top choice for those seeking immediate cooling effects.
- Cotton - Lightweight and breathable, this plant-based, natural material is easy to wash and helps regulate temperatures. Perfect if you don’t have any particular support needs and want a comfortable night's sleep.
- Wool - Another natural choice, toppers made of wool are durable and soft. The wool makes them thick and deep, creating that sinking feeling many desire. Surprisingly, wool toppers are great year round - they absorb heat in summer and preserve it in winter.
- Latex - Latex mattress toppers offer the latest temperature regulation technology. These toppers create airflow rather than absorbing heat like cooling gel. This provides consistent heat control throughout the night.
- Bamboo - Bamboo stands out for its dust mite, mold and mildew resistance qualities, as well as its softness. If this is a concern for you, bamboo is the natural fibre to choose.
- Microfibre - Easy to care for and machine washable, microfibre mattress toppers are made from a soft and smooth synthetic material. Our beds and mattress team recommends microfibre for those with allergies.
- Feather and Down - Luxuriously soft, feather and down toppers are known for their high quality and warmth. Additionally, they are a great natural option for moisture absorption.
How to Choose a Mattress Topper
Shopping for a mattress topper can be very overwhelming. With so many materials, sizes, and firmness options available, it can be tricky to know which one suits you best. Check out our detailed guide that covers everything - from types and sleeping positions to care, maintenance and online shopping tips. Discover expert advice and make an informed choice by reading the full guide here - How to Choose a Mattress Topper.
Our Best Mattress Toppers
With the help of our Beds and Mattress team, as well as customer reviews, we have picked out our best mattress toppers below to help you quickly find your perfect fit.
Best memory foam and cooling topper
Soft Bamboo Memory Foam Mattress Topper
Engineered with advanced 'Cool Blue' memory foam and infused with micro gel particles, this topper comes in two versatile thicknesses - 2.5cm and 5cm. The five zoned head-to-foot design provides targeted pressure relief to shoulders, back, and joints. The gel-infused memory foam draws away excess heat for a cooler, fresher night’s rest year-round.
Best budget topper
NightComfort Mattress Topper
This budget-friendly NightComfort mattress topper is loved for its plush, down-like feel and supportive hollowfibre filling, which stays evenly distributed throughout the night. Made with hypoallergenic materials and featuring elasticated straps, a bound-edge design, and available in two thickness options - 600 or 900 GSM - it’s a reliable choice for both comfort and mattress protection.
Best for back pain or hip pain
If you’re looking to ease back or hip pain while you sleep, choosing the right mattress topper is key. From memory foam to hybrid options, the right topper can make a noticeable difference in comfort and support. To explore the best options and understand how to pick the perfect one, check out our exclusive guide - What is the Best Mattress Topper for Back Pain?. It covers everything from choosing the right type to a detailed comparison table to help you decide.
FAQs
How many inches of mattress topper is best?
This comes down to personal preference and desired feel, however generally 3-4 inches is considered the best depth. As mattress toppers are usually bought to prolong the life of older mattresses, a thicker depth will create a plusher feel and last longer. But, if you are looking for a thinner mattress topper, 2 inches is recommended.
Do you put a fitted sheet over a mattress topper?
Yes, it is advised to put a fitted sheet on your mattress topper. A fitted sheet will keep your topper clean from debris such as hair, skin and sweat. It is also more comfortable as the surface of a topper is not designed to be slept on directly.
How often should you change your mattress topper?
Typically a mattress topper will last from 3 to 5 years depending on how you care for it. Factors such as using a fitted sheet, washing it correctly and frequency of use will impact longevity. Signs your topper needs replacing include dents, dips, loss of shape such as sagging, and the presence of a smell.
Can you wash a mattress topper?
You can wash your topper! But, make sure to check the care instructions from the manufacturer. Some mattress toppers can be machine washed, such as cotton or microfibre. Others will need spot cleaning, like memory foam or will have a removable cover you can wash.