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If you’re sleeping on a mattress for the recommended 7-plus hours per night, it should feel more than okay, it should feel just right. If your mattress is falling short, a mattress topper can go the extra mile to deliver the comfort you need.

Depending on your sleep preferences, toppers can address a range of issues. If your mattress feels too soft, a firm topper can prevent sinkage. If your mattress feels too stiff, a plush topper can make it more pillow-like. Some are great for cooling, others boost support for the back, hips, and shoulders. Foldout beds are notoriously rigid. A comfortable topper can make them more bearable for your guests. 

Which topper is perfect for you? Our team tested a wide range from top brands, then selected the best for every budget, sleeping position, and body. Here are our top picks.

Best Overall: Saatva Graphite Memory Foam Mattress Topper

Best Overall

8.6/10Test Lab Score

Saatva Graphite Memory Foam Mattress Topper

Use this link for the most current Saatva discounts Shop At Saatva
Price: $295
Material: 1″ graphite-infused memory foam, 2″ memory foam
Firmness: Medium Soft (4)
Sleep Trial: 180 nights

Saatva offers a lineup of mattress toppers, each with unique strengths. Our tests show that the Graphite Mattress Topper excels at pressure relief thanks to the close contouring, making this an ideal topper for sleepers who experience pressure buildup or simply enjoy the “hugging” feel of foam.

How It Performs

The Graphite topper was rated medium soft (4) by our testers, but it didn’t sink too much for sleepers who weigh up to 230 pounds. With a 3-inch profile, the topper offers substantial plushness for mattress surfaces that are overly firm or worn. The topper absorbs most motion, which may be helpful for co-sleepers who frequently wake each other up with movement at night. An infusion of graphite helps offset some of the foam’s heat-absorbing properties, so the topper performed well in our temperature neutrality tests.

Construction Breakdown

The topper is composed of adaptive memory foam that conforms to your body. It’s encased in a cover made of breathable, sustainably sourced organic cotton certified by the Global Organic Textile Standard. Elastic corner straps keep the topper in place to minimize shifting, which often occurs if you move around a lot while you sleep.

Shipping is free for all contiguous U.S. orders, and every purchase is backed by a 180-night sleep trial and 1-year warranty.

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Best Cooling: Helix GlacioTex Premium Mattress Topper – Luxury Plush

Best Cooling

8.8/10Test Lab Score

Helix GlacioTex Premium Mattress Topper – Luxury Plush

Use this link for the most current Helix discounts Shop At Helix Sleep
Price: $499
Material: 1.5″ polyfoam, .75″ microcoils, 1.5″ high-density polyfoam
Firmness: Medium Soft (4)
Sleep Trial: 100 nights

If your mattress is on its last leg but you aren’t ready to replace it, you should consider a thick topper for the indentations and impressions that make your sleep surface feel uneven. The Helix GlacioTex Premium Mattress Topper – Luxury Plush definitely meets these criteria. With a profile of nearly 4 inches, the topper contains foam and microcoil layers that create a cushy buffer between your body and the mattress. A GlacioTex phase change cover engineered to feel cool at all times also boosts the topper’s temperature-regulating abilities, so you shouldn’t overheat.

How It Performs

The topper is medium soft (4), so while you’ll notice some contouring, excessive sinkage shouldn’t be a major issue. Our tests show the topper is best suited to side sleepers weighing at least 130 pounds and back sleepers up to 230 pounds, but ratings were pretty solid across the board. Only our stomach sleepers over 230 pounds noticed sinkage that could be described as excessive. The topper is also available in a medium firm (6) design if you need more support.

Temperature control is a defining strength of the topper. This can be attributed to the cooling cover, which effectively offsets heat retention from the foam layers, and steady airflow throughout the microcoils. If you share your bed with a partner, the topper should also isolate movement and cut down on disruptive motion transfer. Expect some strong off-gassing for the first few nights after the topper arrives.

Construction Breakdown

The topmost layer is composed of adaptive polyfoam, which conforms to your figure without the close “hug” of memory foam. Microcoils provide additional cushioning, as well as some bounce, and dense base foam stabilizes the topper to reinforce the firm feel. A cover made of cooling GlacioTex fabric encases the internal layers. The cover is non-removable, so spot cleaning is needed if stains or smudges occur. Straps at each corner secure the topper to your mattress.

The GlacioTex Premium Mattress Topper – Luxury Plush carries an expensive sticker price reflective of its sophisticated design. While this may be a dealbreaker for budget-conscious shoppers, Helix softens the blow with free shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. and a 100-night trial period. If you decide to keep the topper, you’ll also receive a one-year warranty.

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Most Comfortable: Silk & Snow Organic Mattress Topper

Most Comfortable

9.3/10Test Lab Score

Silk & Snow Organic Mattress Topper

Use this link for the most current Silk & Snow discounts Shop At Silk & Snow
Price: $270
Material: 2″ GOLS-certified organic Dunlop latex
Firmness: Medium (5), Firm (7)
Sleep Trial: 100 nights

The Silk & Snow Organic Mattress Topper is made entirely from certified organic materials. With two firmness levels to choose from, many sleepers on our testing team were able to find a model that felt comfortable and supportive.

How It Performs

If you wish to improve the feel of a mattress with minor wear, the Silk & Snow’s 2-inch profile is an excellent choice. You can choose between a medium (5) and firm (7) feel. Our testing team found the medium model best suited for side sleepers over 230 pounds and back sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds. These groups experienced relief for pressure points without sinking excessively. The firm model offered an even sleep surface comfortable for back sleepers over 230 pounds and most stomach sleepers.

Construction Breakdown

Silk & Snow’s Organic Mattress Topper features a Dunlop latex core. This material offers moderate cushioning without sinking too deeply beneath your weight, resulting in a comfortable balance of pressure relief and support. The topper’s components are also backed by Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) and Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS) certifications. If you tend to sleep hot and you prioritize organic bedding, this topper checks off a lot of boxes.

An organic cotton cover encases the topper. Cotton is naturally breathable and moisture-wicking, so it’s great if you live in a warm or humid climate. For easy care, you can remove and machine wash the cover. Note that the latex core should only be spot cleaned.

The topper is available in all six standard mattress sizes. Silk & Snow offers free shipping to customers in the contiguous U.S. and provincial Canada, as well as a 100-night sleep trial. Organic Mattress Topper purchases include a 3-year warranty for the latex core and a 1-year warranty for the cotton cover.

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Best Value: ViscoSoft Select High Density Mattress Topper

Best Value

8.5/10Test Lab Score

ViscoSoft Select High Density Mattress Topper

25% off + free shipping Shop At ViscoSoft
Price: $225
Material: 2-4″ gel-Infused memory foam
Firmness: Medium Firm (6)
Sleep Trial: 90 nights

The ViscoSoft Select High Density Mattress Topper has a medium feel that closely cradles your body in all the right spots but still feels fairly supportive, especially for a foam topper. If you’re looking to improve your bed’s pressure relief, this is a solid choice.

How It Performs

During tests, we found the topper was optimal for many side sleepers because it offered ample padding for the shoulders and hips. By cushioning these areas while supporting the rest of the body, this helped ensure healthy spinal alignment – a common issue for side sleepers. Back sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds also felt comfortable on this topper. The foam supported the torso and midsection without sagging, and it cradled the head, neck, and legs.

The topper is a good option for couples, as well. Our motion isolation tests showed that the foam absorbs most movement to greatly reduce motion transfer, and the topper itself is completely silent. This can minimize sleep disruptions for people who tend to wake up when their sleep partner changes positions or gets in and out of bed.

Construction Breakdown

The Select High Density Topper is constructed from memory foam. This material conforms closely to equally distribute your weight, support the spine, and alleviate pressure points throughout the body. Due to its medium feel, this topper was best suited to testers weighing up to 230 pounds who prefer to sink somewhat deeply into their mattress. The topper also sleeps fairly cool compared to other memory foam models. This is due in part to a breathable cover made of rayon derived from bamboo, as well as cooling gel infused into the foam to help regulate surface temperatures.

In addition to the standard model, ViscoSoft offers two other versions of the topper with special components. One of these toppers is infused with lavender for a calming scent intended to help you relax before falling asleep. The other contains active charcoal for extra cooling.

The Select High Density Topper is a bargain for shoppers. This model costs much less than other foam toppers we’ve tested, but it conforms evenly and alleviates pressure as well as – if not better than – many more expensive options. The topper comes with a 90-night sleep trial and 5-year warranty. Shipping is free to the contiguous U.S.

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Best for Back Pain: Helix ErgoAlign Mattress Topper

Best for Back Pain

8.8/10Test Lab Score

Helix ErgoAlign Mattress Topper

Use this link for the most current Helix discounts Shop At Helix
Price: $499
Material: 1.5″ copper-infused memory foam, 1.5″ polyfoam
Firmness: Medium (5)
Sleep Trial: 100 nights

If you live with frequent back pain and your mattress doesn’t provide enough relief, the right mattress topper can make a world of difference. Helix’s ErgoAlign Mattress Topper is zoned with denser, firmer foam beneath your midsection. This ensures your torso and hips won’t sink lower into the sleep surface than other areas of your body – a common source of lower back pain and pressure points for sleepers.

How It Performs

As one of the only multi-zone toppers on the market, the ErgoAlign is well suited to sleepers living with frequent or chronic back pain. During hands-on tests, the topper earned stellar ratings from our side and back sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds. Some testers over 230 pounds also felt reasonably comfortable on the topper, though they noted a bit of sinkage.

Foam toppers have a tendency to retain heat. While this is true of the ErgoAlign, we found the GlacioTex cover offsets heat absorption to a noticeable degree and helps the topper maintain a cool temperature. The ErgoAlign’s thick profile also makes it a solid choice for anyone seeking a significant firmness adjustment to their current mattress.

Construction Breakdown

The ErgoAlign contains two foam layers. The first consists of adaptive polyfoam divided into three zones with extra pushback for your midsection and gentler cradling for your head and legs. High-density base foam stabilizes the topper and prevents you from sinking in too deeply. A cover made of cooling GlacioTex fabric encases the topper, and thick, elastic corner straps secure it to your mattress.

Helix offers free ground shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. The ErgoAlign Mattress Topper comes with a generous 100-night sleep trial. If you decide to keep the topper after the return period ends, your purchase is further backed by a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty.

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Best for Side Sleepers: Nolah AirFoam Luxe Mattress Topper

Best for Side Sleepers

8.7/10Test Lab Score

Nolah AirFoam Luxe Mattress Topper

Extra $50 off on top of existing discounts with code: SF50 Shop At Nolah
Price: $349
Material: 2-3″ AirFoam polyfoam
Firmness: Medium Soft (4), Medium (5)
Sleep Trial: 30 nights

If you’re a side sleeper seeking a mattress topper to improve your sleep surface’s comfort level, you should consider a model with cushioning material to alleviate pressure buildup in your shoulders and hips. Nolah’s AirFoam Luxe Mattress Topper is a solid candidate. Available in 2- and 3-inch profiles, the topper is constructed with proprietary polyfoam that contours evenly to soothe your pain points and sore spots.

How It Performs

Side sleepers on our testing team weighing less than 130 pounds felt very comfortable on the 3-inch AirFoam Luxe. This topper feels slightly softer than its 2-inch counterpart, so side sleepers in this weight range can enjoy the AirFoam’s contouring and pressure-relieving effects without sinking too deeply. Side sleepers who weigh 130 pounds or more should receive the support they need from the 2-inch topper, and the same is true of most back and stomach sleepers.

Temperature control is one of this topper’s major strengths. The AirFoam has an open-cell composition, allowing air to circulate, while the cover’s cool-to-the-touch design prevents too much heat from building up. We were also impressed with the topper’s ability to isolate motion — a major bonus for couples, especially those with responsive mattresses that transfer movement.

Construction Breakdown

The topper contains 2 to 3 inches of breathable AirFoam. Like other polyfoams, AirFoam cushions the body but also feels somewhat responsive. A cooling GlacioTex cover encases the foam. Thick, elastic corner straps secure the topper to your sleep surface. The 2-inch model is medium (5) in terms of firmness, while the 3-inch is medium soft (4).

While the AirFoam Luxe Mattress Topper is somewhat expensive, Nolah softens the blow with free ground shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. Your sleep trial runs for 30 nights. If you decide to keep the topper, it’s backed by a manufacturer’s warranty covering structural defects for up to 10 years after the purchase date.

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Best for Couples: Helix Dual Comfort Mattress Topper

Best for Couples

8.4/10Test Lab Score

Helix Dual Comfort Mattress Topper

Use this link for the most current Helix discounts Shop At Helix
Price: $499
Material: Gel-infused memory foam (Side 1) and polyfoam (side 2), high-density base foam (shared)
Firmness: Side 1: Medium Soft (4), Side 2: Mediumn Firm (6)
Sleep Trial: 100 nights

If you normally sleep with a partner but you don’t share the same firmness preferences as this person, you may need a sleep surface that accommodates both of you. The Helix Dual Comfort Mattress Topper is an effective temporary option if you don’t want to spend the money for a split-firmness mattress. Medium soft (4) on one side and medium firm (6) on the other, this topper helps ensure you and your partner can sleep comfortably without compromising on firmness.

How It Performs

During hands-on tests of the Dual Comfort Mattress Topper, we found the medium soft side best suited to side and back sleepers under 130 pounds. The medium firm side was more appealing to a wider range of sleepers, particularly side sleepers of at least 130 pounds and back and stomach sleepers up to 230 pounds.

You may notice some heat buildup from the foam, but the GlacioTex cover does a good job of maintaining a cool temperature. Couples should also appreciate how well the foam layers absorb movement and reduce motion transfer across the surface.

Construction Breakdown

The topper is constructed with plush, gel-infused memory foam on the softer side and high-density polyfoam on the firmer side. A shared base layer of dense foam helps to prevent both of you from sinking too much. A cooling GlacioTex cover encases the topper, and thick corner straps secure it to your mattress and minimize shifting when you change sleep positions. You may remove and machine-wash the cover whenever a cleaning is needed.

All orders within the contiguous U.S. qualify for free ground shipping and Helix’s sleep trial for the Dual Comfort Mattress Topper spans 100 nights in length. Your purchase also includes a warranty against structural and material defects for up to one year.

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Best for Pressure Relief: Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Adapt Topper

Best for Pressure Relief

8.6/10Test Lab Score

Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Adapt Topper

30% off Tempur-Pedic toppers with code: TOPPERS Shop At Tempur-Pedic
Price: $349
Material: 3″ TEMPUR memory foam
Firmness: Medium (5)
Sleep Trial: No trial

If you live with chronic shoulder, back, or hip pain, you can benefit from a topper that softens your sleep surface and gently cushions your body. The Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Adapt Topper has the perfect amount of cushioning to ease pressure off your body while still offering enough support to maintain good sleep posture.

How It Performs

After testing the topper, we found it was best suited to people weighing up to 230 pounds. The foam provides ample padding for the shoulders and hips, which can improve alignment and alleviate pressure for side sleepers, but the foam is dense and supportive enough to prevent deep sinkage for back sleepers. If you awaken easily due to a sleep partner’s movements, you should be able to sleep soundly on the TEMPUR-Adapt Topper. The foam absorbs motion and practically eliminates transfer across the surface.

Construction Breakdown

The topper measures 3 inches thick and consists of adaptive TEMPUR memory foam. The topper’s feel is medium (5), so you can expect the foam to closely contour to your body, but the material’s dense composition should also ensure long-lasting support and resistance to wear and tear. A breathable knit cover encases the foam. You may remove and machine wash the cover as needed, but only spot clean the foam if stains or blemishes occur. Six sizes are available, all of which correspond to standard mattress dimensions.

While the topper’s sticker price may seem steep at first glance, its expected durability and performance may justify the high cost. Tempur-Pedic also ships free of charge anywhere in the contiguous U.S. All sales are final, so the topper may not be returned for a refund after the purchase has been finalized, but you’ll receive a 10-year manufacturer’s warranty against structural and workmanship defects.

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Best Luxury: Birch Plush Organic Mattress Topper

Best Luxury

9.1/10Test Lab Score

Birch Plush Organic Mattress Topper

Use this link for the most current Birch discounts Shop At Birch
Price: $499
Material: 3″ Talalay latex
Firmness: Medium (5)
Sleep Trial: 100 nights

Few toppers we’ve tested match the luxurious design of the Birch Mattress Topper. The premium latex and wool design earned high marks for its gentle pressure relief and overall comfort during tests. The topper also excelled at temperature control, thanks to the breathable cotton cover, moisture-wicking wool batting, and latex fill that retains very little heat.

How It Performs

The Talalay latex gently conforms to your body, but the topper has a medium (5) feel and its surface is somewhat responsive. This may be the right topper for you if you experience pressure points in sensitive areas like the shoulders, lower back, and hips, but don’t enjoy the deep sink of memory foam. During tests, we found that side sleepers who weigh at least 130 pounds felt fairly comfortable on this topper, and the same was true for back and stomach sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds.

The Birch Mattress Topper is a great option for hot sleepers, too. The latex does not trap much body heat compared to memory foam or polyfoam, and the breathable wool layer wicks moisture away from your body. Durability is another asset of this topper. Thanks to the natural resiliency of latex, the topper should maintain a responsive and supportive shape for years to come.

Construction Breakdown

The Birch Mattress Topper is made from Talalay latex from sustainable rubber tree farms. The topper also contains a cover made of organic cotton and a top layer of natural wool, which regulates surface temperatures and acts as a fire barrier. These luxurious materials make the Birch Mattress Topper very eco-friendly, giving you extra peace of mind as a consumer.

The topper is a bit pricey, as is typical of models with natural latex layers. Birch offers a 100-night sleep trial, giving you plenty of time to test out the topper and decide whether or not it’s right for you. The topper also comes with a 10-year warranty.

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Best Soft Topper: The Company Store Legends Hotel Down Alternative Mattress Topper

Best Soft Topper

8.5/10Test Lab Score

The Company Store Legends Hotel Down Alternative Mattress Topper

Use this link for the most current The Company Store discounts Shop At The Company Store
Price: $249
Material: Down alternative fibers
Firmness: Medium Soft (4)
Sleep Trial: 30 nights

Most toppers are soft by design, but The Company Store’s Legends Hotel Down Alternative Mattress Topper is exceptionally plush and cushy. This creates a deep cradling effect as your body settles into the sleep surface. At the same time, a gusseted design and densely packed fill help ensure good shape retention and minimal sinkage.

How It Performs

Most side sleepers on our team who weigh 230 pounds or less found this topper comfortable. The same was true of back sleepers under 130 pounds. People who use these positions and weigh more – as well as stomach sleepers – will probably prefer a topper with less cushioning and stronger support, but the ultrasoft design should provide relief to anyone whose mattress feels uncomfortably firm.

Down alternative doesn’t absorb as much heat as real down, so this topper earned favorable ratings during our temperature control tests. We were also impressed with its shape retention – the gusseted construction prevents the topper from compressing when weight is applied, so most people won’t sink too deeply.

Construction Breakdown

Down alternative clusters make up the topper’s fill. Roughly 80% of these fibers are derived from recycled materials. A quilted shell made of durable cotton twill encases the fill. The shell’s sewn-through baffles measure roughly 15 inches, keeping the fill evenly distributed throughout the topper. Please note the topper should only be spot cleaned or dry cleaned.

The Company Store offers free ground shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. Each order includes a 30-night sleep trial.

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Best Technology: BedJet 3 Climate Comfort System

Best Technology

BedJet 3 Climate Comfort System

Price: $489

If you’re looking for something that goes beyond what a traditional topper offers, the BedJet 3 might meet your needs. This adjustable climate control device allows you to set a temperature between 66 and 104 degrees, so people who run hot and cold in bed can sleep comfortably. You can also upgrade to the BedJet Dual Zone Bundle with two individual units if you and your partner have different sleep temperature preferences.

How It Performs

The BedJet 3 delivers as promised. During hands-on tests, we were impressed with not only the temperature range but also how intuitive and user-friendly the device is. You can adjust settings using either the wireless remote that comes with your purchase or the BedJet app, which is compatible with any iOS or Android device. The operation is relatively quiet, and your order includes a bracket to secure the hose to your mattress – this prevents it from shifting during the night.

Construction Breakdown

Each BedJet 3 consists of a floor unit, which can be placed beneath your bed, and a connective hose that disperses heated or cooled air onto your sleep surface. A nozzle at the end of the hose prevents the airflow from being too strong, while a bracket holds the hose in place. The BedJet Dual Zone Bundle includes two floor units and hoses.

All Sleep Doctor orders qualify for free shipping within the contiguous U.S. You’ll also receive a 60-night trial and 2-year manufacturer’s warranty with your purchase.

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Best Memory Foam: Sleep Is the Foundation Cooling Memory Foam Mattress Topper

Best Memory Foam

8.5/10Test Lab Score

Sleep Is the Foundation Cooling Memory Foam Mattress Topper

Use this link for the most current Sleep Is the Foundation discounts Shop At Sleep Is the Foundation
Price: $175
Material: Perforated memory foam (gel-infused)
Firmness: Medium (5)
Sleep Trial: 30 nights

A memory foam topper can be a great investment if your sleep surface has become rigid with use and now lacks the contouring you need to sleep comfortably. The Sleep Is the Foundation Cooling Memory Foam Mattress Topper contains solid memory foam and offers a medium (5) feel. A 2-inch profile ensures ample cushioning without too much sink, making the topper best suited to mattresses with slight wear and tear.

How It Performs

A mid-range feel paired with a medium profile makes this topper appealing to a wide range of sleeper types, as evidenced during our hands-on testing. Side sleepers across all weight groups, back sleepers up to 230 pounds, and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds all awarded the topper favorable ratings.

As is the case with many foam toppers we’ve tested, this model performed well in the pressure relief and motion isolation testing areas. Strong temperature control was another highlight. While many memory foam toppers absorb heat to an uncomfortable degree, this one sleeps cooler by comparison thanks to its ventilated, gel-infused core and breathable cotton cover.

Construction Breakdown

The topper contains 2 inches of memory foam. This material conforms closely to the body, but shouldn’t trap too much heat due to small perforations intended to promote airflow and an infusion of cooling gel that dissipates body heat. A cotton cover encases the foam. You may remove and machine-wash the cover as needed. Each corner is equipped with an adjustable strap for securing the topper to your sleep surface, which prevents it from shifting when you change sleep positions during the night.

The Sleep Is the Foundation Cooling Memory Foam Topper is available at SleepDoctor.com. Shipping is free to addresses in the contiguous U.S. and unopened toppers may be returned within 60 nights for a full refund. If you wish to return a used topper, you may do so within 60 nights for store credit.

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Best Mattress Toppers Video

Watch the video below to learn more about our lab’s best mattress toppers of 2024.

How to Choose a Mattress Topper

The first thing to assess when topper-shopping is what you’re not getting from your mattress alone. From there, search for toppers that address the issue–whether it’s extra softness, firmness, added support in specific areas, a fix for unevenness, something that better conforms to your body, or just a temporary layer of comfort while you search for a new mattress. 

Narrow the list down further by searching for ones made with your preferred materials. Some love the snug envelope of memory foam, while others like polyfoam because it allows for more movement. The good news is, with such a huge variety out there, you’re almost guaranteed to find one that ticks all your boxes. 

Toppers have another bonus too: They help extend your mattress’s life by acting as a buffer between your body and the mattress surface, reducing everyday wear and tear. 

It is important to note, however, that if your mattress is on its last legs, a topper should only be a temporary fix, not a permanent solution. When it’s time, it’s time–especially if your mattress is old, indented, or making you lose sleep. If you need a replacement, check out our list of 2024’s best mattresses.

To learn more about our best mattress topper selections, you’ll find detailed product profiles below. We awarded a unique accolade to each topper that reflects why it stands out from the competition. First-time topper buyers can also find additional information further down the page, where we cover common topper materials and designs, pros and cons of different topper types, how using a topper will change your mattress, and how much you can expect to pay for a new one.

Types of Toppers to Choose From

Toppers are generally made from seven types of material: memory foam, polyfoam, latex, feathers, down, wool, or polyester. As with all things mattresses and bedding, it comes down to personal choice and budget. Here’s what each has to offer:  

Memory Foam: If you like that snug, sinking sensation of a memory foam mattress, memory foam toppers work similarly, conforming to the body, evenly distributing weight, and keeping your shoulders, spine, and hips aligned. That makes it ideal for side sleepers and people with chronic pain. It’s also great for couples who don’t want to feel each other’s movement. Because it’s so dense, however, memory foam tends to trap heat. If you’re a memory foam fan but a hot sleeper, look for toppers infused with cooling ingredients like gel, graphite, or copper. 

Polyfoam: You may know them as  “egg crate toppers,” but the material is actuallypolyfoam, which is generally less expensive than memory foam, less constrictive and offers more bounce. Filled with small, perforated holes that promote airflow, it’s a cooler material but it does tend to off-gas, which means it might emit an odor until it’s broken in. It’s also less sturdy than memory foam, so potentially not the best pick for stomach sleepers who need strong midsection support.

Latex: Like polyfoam, latex conforms to the body while maintaining a responsive feel. The two most common types of latex are Dunlop and Talalay. Dunlop is firmer and more durable, Talalay tends to be springier. Because it’s lighter and with more ventilation, Talalay is often more cooling. Dunlop contours the body similarly to memory foam, provides significant pressure relief, and can smooth an uneven surface area, like a lumpy mattress. 

Other Materials: While memory foam, polyfoam, and latex are more common, toppers also come filled with down, feathers, wool, and polyester. Down and wool are both plush, cloud-like and breathable. In the winter, wool is great at providing insulation. Polyester isn’t as high quality as polyfoam and might irritate those with sensitive skin, but it offers adequate cushioning at  affordable price-points.

These days, if you’re buying a new mattress, there’s often no need for a separate topper, since many companies now offer customizable, built-in toppers in a “pillow-top” or “Euro-top” style. The difference between the two is how they’re sewn into the mattress. Pillow-top covers are stitched in small, separately filled squares with a small gap between the mattress, giving them a plush, fluffy look and feel.  Euro-tops are generally made from firmer materials and sewn as a flat layer directly on the mattress surface itself, giving an overall more uniform appearance.

How to Shop for a Mattress Topper

Like mattress shopping, you can check out toppers at a mattress store or buy online and have them delivered. Both offer different pros and cons. Going to the store can speed up the selection process. By testing them on the spot, you’ll quickly root out what feels right and what doesn’t.   (Not to mention, hopping from display bed to display bed can be pretty fun.) But not everyone has that kind of time. Online shopping offers more convenience. Once you make a selection, it arrives door-to-door.

The downside is that if it’s not the right fit, mattress topper returns often come with restrictions. Certain brands don’t accept topper returns at all. Others accept returns after a mandatory trial period, but it’s up to the customer to pay the shipping. Make sure you read the company’s return policy first to determine if it’s worth the risk. 

Whether you buy in-store or online, do your research first by combing through customer reviews and the company’s business rating. The last thing you want is to shell out for a mattress topper only to get the bait-and-switch on quality or stuck dealing with poor customer service.

How We Test: Data, Rigor, and Sleeper Feedback

Our testing team is just like you. Sure, we’re professional reviewers, but we’re also regular sleepers. We’re side, back, stomach, and combination sleepers with differing needs and  body types. That diversity helps us make topper recommendations best-suited for similar kinds of sleepers. We’ve also reviewed them across a range of categories, including material composition, firmness, thickness, and pressure point relief. Most importantly, we’re objective. We’re not here to promote a specific company or brand. Our unbiased recommendations are 100% aimed to help you get the best night’s sleep. Here’s how we review each and every topper that comes into our Test Lab.

Construction analysis: We begin testing each topper by looking at its design and noting things like thickness, firmness level, and material composition. This initial analysis helps us determine how durable and supportive it is, which is also a good indicator of overall quality.

Product testing: Hands-on testing is essential for our product ratings. We’ll take turns lying on each topper and shifting positions to evaluate contouring, pressure relief, motion isolation, and ease of movement.

Field testing: Our field testers use mattress toppers in their own home, collecting data over several weeks. This feedback gives us insights into each topper’s long-term performance and compatibility with different mattress types.

User testing: We collect data from surveys and customer reviews to decipher feedback from topper owners. This helps us confirm our product ratings are accurate and indicative of real-world experiences.

In-Depth Mattress Topper Guides

For more personalized mattress topper guides, check out the following pages:

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