Best Firm Mattress Toppers
Written by
Daniel Noyed, Senior Editor
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A mattress topper is an extra layer that rests on the existing mattress to modify its feel. While many sleepers use mattress toppers to soften a bed that is too firm, the right topper can also add firmness to a mattress that’s too soft. A high-quality topper can significantly improve how your mattress feels and help you sleep more soundly.
Shoppers should know that if their mattress is sagging or has lasting indentations, a topper won’t resolve its issues. However, if the mattress is still in good condition but isn’t as firm as you’d like, a topper could make your sleep surface closer to your ideal feel.
Toppers usually measure between 1 and 4 inches thick, and they vary in firmness levels and materials. These criteria can affect how firm, supportive, and pressure-relieving a topper is, so shoppers should carefully assess how their needs and preferences stack up against any topper they’re considering.
We’ll detail our top picks for firm mattress toppers and highlight what makes them unique. We’ll also explain key factors to consider as you shop and share other tips on how to make your mattress feel firmer.
The Best Firm Mattress Toppers
Product Details
Best Overall
Silk & Snow Organic Mattress Topper – Firm
Who it’s best for:
- Hot sleepers
- People who find their current mattress too soft
- Shoppers who prefer to purchase eco-friendly products
Highlights:
- Dunlop latex core is responsive, supportive, and durable
- Minimal heat retention and a breathable cover ensure excellent temperature regulation
- GOLS and GOTS certifications indicate materials are sustainably sourced
Sleep Foundation Exclusive Offer!
Use this SleepFoundation.org link for the most current discount on Silk & Snow products
If your current mattress feels to plush or has become excessively soft with age, then a firm mattress topper might be a worthwhile investment. The Silk & Snow Organic Mattress Topper is available in two firmness levels, including a firm (7) feel that provides excellent overall support. The topper’s core contains Dunlop latex, a naturally responsive material that provides light cushioning but won’t sink or hug the body too tightly. Dunlop latex is also highly durable, so the topper should serve as a temporary fix for your mattress until you’re ready to purchase a new model.
A 2-inch profile makes the topper best suited to mattresses with light to moderate wear and tear. The cover is composed of organic cotton. Since the fabric is exceptionally breathable and the latex retains very little heat, the topper is a great choice for hot sleepers and those who reside in warm or humid climates. The cotton has received certification from the Global Organic Textile Standard, a leading worldwide authority for sustainably sourced fabrics. Additionally, the latex is certified by the Global Organic Latex Standard, an organization with comparably rigorous standards. These eco-friendly materials should appeal to people who prefer using products with a low carbon footprint.
The topper is available in six sizes that correspond to standard mattress dimensions. You can remove and launder the cover in any household machine. Wash the fabric in warm water with light colors and mild detergent, then tumble dry on low heat. The latex should not be exposed to too much water, so spot clean as needed if stains or smudges occur.
The Organic Mattress Topper is competitively priced, and Silk & Snow offers free ground shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. and provincial Canada. Each order comes with a 100-night sleep trial, giving customers plenty of time to test out the topper and decide whether it’s right for them. Those who choose to keep it also receive a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty for the cover and a 3-year warranty for the latex.
Best Value
Puffy Mattress Topper – Firm
Who it’s best for:
- Side and back sleepers who weigh at least 130 pounds
- Co-sleepers who share overly responsive mattresses
- Those who frequently toss and turn
Highlights:
- Memory foam core is adaptive and supportive for optimal pressure relief
- Washable cover can be tucked over mattress corners for a secure fit
- 101-night trial period and lifetime warranty
Sleep Foundation Exclusive Offer!
SleepFoundation.org readers can get 15% off toppers at Puffy
If your mattress is too soft and unable to properly withstand your weight, chances are you’ll feel pressure buildup in areas along the spine. This is especially true for side sleepers who can experience alignment issues if the shoulders and hips aren’t properly cushioned, as well as back sleepers who need reinforcement to prevent their midsections from sinking. While most toppers are softer and intended to add cushioning to your mattress, the firm (7) Puffy Mattress Topper has the opposite effect of creating more support for an overly plush sleep surface.
The topper is constructed from solid memory foam with a 2.5-inch profile, resulting in a significant change to how your mattress feels. Even contouring and minimal sinkage ensure The firm feel is best suited to side and back sleepers who weigh at least 130 pounds. A soft (3) feel is also available for this topper, which may be more comfortable for those weighing less than 130 pounds.
The topper is encased in a breathable polyester cover with an elastic border that can be tucked around the corners of your mattress, similarly to a fitted sheet. A pocket depth of 15 inches makes the topper compatible with most mattresses made today. You can remove and machine wash the cover for quick and easy cleaning. The base is grooved to provide traction and prevent slipping or sliding around during the night, making the topper ideal for anyone who tosses and turns or frequently changes sleep positions.
Six sizes are available for the topper, all of which correspond to standard mattress dimensions. Puffy ships orders free of charge to customers in all 50 states. The Puffy Mattress Topper is backed by a generous sleep trial that spans 101 nights, as well as a lifetime warranty against structural defects for anyone who decides to keep the topper after the trial period expires.
Most Comfortable
Saatva Graphite Mattress Topper
Who it’s best for:
- Anyone whose mattress has light to moderate wear and tear
- Hot sleepers
- Shoppers looking for a topper with a long sleep trial
Highlights:
- Graphite-infused memory foam contours evenly and sleeps fairly cool
- All toppers include breathable organic cotton covers
- Customers may test out their topper for up to 6 months
Sleep Foundation Exclusive Offer!
Use this SleepFoundation.org link for the most current discount on Saatva mattress toppers
Saatva offers high-quality mattress toppers in three distinct designs. Our team’s favorite of the three is also the thickest and densest option. Its core consists of graphite-infused memory foam that contours closely to the body. A graphite infusion in the foam also helps offset heat retention, allowing the topper to sleep cool. This topper proved popular with side and back sleepers on our team weighing up to 230 pounds, but people seeking an exceptionally firm topper may find it too plush and adaptive.
All Saatva toppers come with removable, machine-washable cotton covers. The cotton is highly breathable to maintain a cool surface temperature regardless of which core material you choose. An organic certification from the Global Organic Textile Standard also ensures the cotton has been sustainably grown. Each corner is equipped with a corner strap to secure the topper to your mattress.
Price-points are somewhat expensive, but the Graphite Mattress Topper’s durable design and high-quality materials make it a solid investment. Saatva provides free ground shipping within the contiguous U.S. All orders include a generous sleep trial that allows you to test out your topper for up to 180 nights. If you decide to keep it, you’ll also receive a 1-year warranty.
Read our Full Saatva Mattress Topper Review to learn more
Best Pressure Relief
ViscoSoft Select High Density Mattress Topper
Who it’s best for:
- Sleepers who weigh at least 130 pounds
- People who tend to sleep hot
- Individuals who want a firmer feel without sacrificing pressure relief
Highlights:
- Memory foam core adjusts to the sleeper's shape to relieve pressure
- Supportive build limits sinkage and promotes healthy sleep posture
- Mesh panel and ventilated core enhance cooling air circulation
The ViscoSoft Select High Density Mattress Topper balances support and pressure relief.
This topper rates around a 5 on the 10-point firmness scale, giving it a medium feel. However, most sleepers who are looking for a firm mattress topper want support, which the ViscoSoft Select High Density Mattress Topper delivers.
This topper measures 3 inches. It is made up of memory foam that adjusts to the shape of the sleeper’s body to relieve pressure while supporting the spine. Memory foam often retains heat because of its close hug and unique composition, but the ViscoSoft Select High Density Mattress Topper is infused with gel to wick heat away rather than trapping it against the body.
A breathable hypoallergenic bamboo-rayon cover adds to the temperature regulation. A mesh bottom panel further optimizes airflow, while no-slip straps ensure a secure fit. The cover is also removable and washable.
Like other firmer mattress toppers, the ViscoSoft Select High Density Mattress Topper is best suited to sleepers who weigh at least 130 pounds since lighter individuals might not sink in enough for pressure relief.
The ViscoSoft Select High Density Mattress Topper excels in conforming, temperature regulation, and motion isolation, and it’s also whisper-quiet. Its close conforming and relatively slow response to changes in pressure may not be ideal for sex, though.
In addition to the standard model, you can select one of ViscoSoft’s two specialized versions of this topper. One is infused with active charcoal for antimicrobial protection against harmful bacteria and better temperature regulation. The other is infused with a calming lavender scent to help you relax before falling asleep.
The ViscoSoft Select High Density Mattress Topper comes with a 60-day guarantee and a 3-year limited warranty.
Read our Full ViscoSoft Select High Density Mattress Topper Review to learn more
Best Extra-Firm
PlushBeds Natural Latex Topper – Extra Firm
Who it’s best for:
- Shoppers looking for more firmness and thickness options
- Those who value natural materials
- Sleepers who prefer a floating sensation
Highlights:
- Four firmness options, including medium firm and extra firm
- Two height selections for different degrees of surface modification
- Constructed of natural, sustainable Talalay latex
Sleep Foundation Exclusive Offer!
Use this SleepFoundation.org link for the most current discount on PlushBeds products
With four firmness and two thickness options, most sleepers are likely to find a version of the PlushBeds Natural Latex Topper that’s right for them. The extra-firm feel is a good option for people who need extra support and very little contouring to sleep comfortably.
People who weigh more than 230 pounds – back and stomach sleepers in particular – are good candidates for the extra-firm feel. Shoppers who want to modify their mattress slightly may like the 2-inch version, while those looking for a more significant change will probably favor the 3-inch option. An organic cotton cover is available for an additional charge.
Natural Talalay latex in the topper results in a buoyant, floating sensation for sleepers. Latex distributes weight over a wider area than memory foam or polyfoam, so it feels more like sleeping “on” the topper than “in” the topper. The manufacturing process also makes Talalay latex springy and breathable.
The PlushBeds Natural Latex Topper is supportive, pressure-relieving, and bouncy enough for sex. However, it may not isolate motion to the same extent as a memory foam topper.
While this topper is not returnable, it is protected by a 5-year limited warranty.
Best for Side Sleepers
Brooklyn Bedding Talalay Latex Topper
Who it’s best for:
- People who want a cooling topper to balance out heat retention in their mattress
- Side and back sleepers
- Those who enjoy a bouncy feel
Highlights:
- Three firmness options
- All-latex design enhances cooling performance
- Breathable cotton cover
Sleep Foundation Exclusive Offer!
Use this SleepFoundation.org link for the most current discount on Brooklyn Bedding products
If you’re in the market for a topper that helps keep your bed cool at night, the Brooklyn Bedding Talalay Latex Topper’s organic cotton cover option is designed with temperature neutrality in mind. All materials used in this model have natural cooling properties that should feel very comfortable for sleepers who run hot.
The topper has a 3-inch depth and comes in three firmness levels – soft (3), medium (5), and firm (7). The soft option provides the most contouring and comfort, while the medium model balances contouring with moderate firmness. The firm option offers the most support and less cushion than the other firmness options. While the softer models are ideal for side sleepers and those who need to cradle sharp pressure points, the firm model is better suited for back sleepers and certain stomach sleepers who need to keep their body on an even plane for healthy spinal alignment.
Regardless of the firmness level, this topper has a slightly bouncy quality thanks to the all-latex construction. Since latex naturally runs cool, the topper does not trap much heat and regulates surface temperature very well. The organic cotton cover enhances the topper’s cooling performance, due to the breathable quality of cotton.
Brooklyn Bedding offers free shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. Toppers come with a 3-year warranty as well as a 30-day return policy. Customers who return toppers within the return window may receive a full refund.
Best for Back Pain
Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Adapt Topper
Who it’s best for:
- Side and back sleepers
- People with older or deeply indented mattresses
- Frequent outdoor recreators
Highlights:
- Proprietary TEMPUR memory foam is dense, durable, and supportive
- Thick profile ensures a significant comfort adjustment
- Portable design is ideal for tent or RV camping
Sleep Foundation Exclusive Offer!
SleepFoundation.org readers can use promo code TOPPERS40 to get 40% off Tempur-Pedic Toppers
Tempur-Pedic’s knack for high-quality memory foam sleep products isn’t just limited to mattresses. The TEMPUR-Topper Supreme is composed of the same TEMPUR memory foam that has made the company’s mattress line such a big hit with sleepers. This proprietary, high-density material contours evenly to cushion the entire body without sinking excessively. The result is a topper with an invitingly plush surface that also delivers excellent, long-lasting support.
Thanks to its 3-inch profile, the TEMPUR-Topper will significantly alter the feel of your sleep surface, even if the mattress is heavily indented from years of use. The balanced feel also ensures added support if your mattress feels too soft, or a bit of extra plushness for a mattress that feels too firm. A machine-washable polyester cover encases the foam to protect the topper from contaminants. The portable design also allows you to use the topper while camping or sleeping in an RV.
The topper is available in six sizes that correspond to the standard mattress dimensions. While the TEMPUR-Topper Supreme carries a rather expensive price-point, the durable design and expected lifespan make it a solid long-term investment. Shipping is also free of charge within the contiguous U.S., and the manufacturer’s warranty ensures the topper is free of structural defects for up to 10 years.
Read our Full Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Adapt Topper Review to learn more
Best Firmness Options
Turmerry Latex Mattress Topper
Who it’s best for:
- Hot sleepers
- Back and stomach sleepers
- Those who prefer buying sustainably sourced products
Highlights:
- Multiple firmness and thickness options
- Ventilated latex promotes airflow and resists overheating
- Latex is naturally responsive for great ease of movement
Sleep Foundation Exclusive Offer!
Use this SleepFoundation.org link for the most current discount on Turmerry products
Every sleeper has certain needs based on their preferred position. The Turmerry Latex Mattress Topper is available in 2-inch, 3-inch, and 4-inch profiles. The 2- and 3-inch toppers come in four firmness levels: soft (3), medium (5), medium firm (6), and firm (7). With the flippable 4-inch topper, one side is soft (3) and the other is medium (5). The wide thickness and firmness selection ensures most people can find a comfortable model regardless of their weight or primary sleep position.
The topper is formed from Dunlop latex ventilated with small holes to promote air circulation. Latex is a naturally durable and responsive material, so back sleepers should be able to lie comfortably without sinking too much. You can choose between two types of latex for the topper. The organic latex holds certification from the Global Organic Latex Standard, ensuring sourcing and manufacturing that meet strict organic standards. You can also opt for natural latex with an OEKO-TEX certification. Additionally, Turmerry’s manufacturing facility has been Carbon Neutral certified.
The cost of this topper depends on which thickness and firmness you choose, but all options are in line with prices for other latex toppers. Shipping is free of charge anywhere in the contiguous U.S. Your purchase includes a 60-night trial period and a 5-year warranty.
Best Luxury
Avocado Organic Latex Mattress Topper – Firm
Who it’s best for:
- Hot sleepers and those prone to night sweats
- Eco-conscious shoppers
- Those who would like a lengthy trial period for testing out their topper
Highlights:
- Composed entirely of certified organic components
- Exceptional breathability and temperature regulation
- Each customer can try the topper for up to a year
Sleep Foundation Exclusive Offer!
Use this SleepFoundation.org link for the most current discount on Avocado products
Avocado is best known for mattresses and other sleep products made from sustainably sourced materials. The Organic Latex Mattress Topper fits right into the brand’s earth-friendly lineup. The core is composed of solid Dunlop latex that has earned certification from the Global Organic Latex Standard. The organic cover and wool fire barrier hold similar certifications from the Global Organic Textile Standard. These materials make the topper a great option for eco-conscious consumers.
Hot sleepers should also enjoy the topper thanks to its exceptional cooling on multiple levels. The latex is ventilated with small holes to circulate air throughout the interior, offsetting some of the material’s heat-trapping tendencies. The cotton and wool are highly breathable, and the latter also has moisture-wicking properties to help you stay dry at night.
The topper is available in a firm (7) feel that is ideal for people who weigh at least 130 pounds, especially those who primarily sleep on their backs or stomachs. Lighter individuals, including many side sleepers, may want to consider the “Plush” medium soft (4) feel instead, as this option contours more closely to cushion areas along the spine and alleviate pressure. The 2-inch profile ensures a comfort adjustment for mattresses with light to moderate wear and tear.
The Organic Latex Mattress Topper is somewhat pricey but the expected lifespan is quite long thanks to the natural durability of latex. Avocado also offers free shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. and backs each purchase with a year-long sleep trial, ensuring you’ll have plenty of time to try out the topper before making a financial commitment. A 10-year warranty against structural defects is also included with your order.
How to Choose a Mattress Topper
Like mattresses, toppers come in a wide range of materials, feels, and thicknesses to accommodate different sleep styles. These factors also affect their performance, price-point, and durability. To find the best firm mattress topper for them, customers should take multiple criteria into account. Each shopper may have their own priorities, but most will consider at least some of the following factors.
What to Consider When Purchasing a Firm Mattress Topper
We’ll give an in-depth overview of the top things to look for when purchasing a mattress topper. Shoppers looking for a firm topper should keep in mind that factors like their body weight, sleep position, existing mattress, and the thickness of the topper can all affect how firm it will feel to them.
Price
The price of a topper will depend largely on its construction. Budget-friendly models often cost less than $100, while high-end toppers with down or innovative materials can cost over $1,000. There are plenty of options available to fit different budgets, and many high-quality mattress toppers are available at affordable price-points.
Sleeping Position
Your sleep position plays a major role in how you experience your sleep surface. Side sleepers typically prefer more contouring and cushioning to accommodate their hips and shoulders, while back and stomach sleepers usually need more support to prevent their hips from sinking in too deeply. Because of this, side sleepers often prefer a thicker, softer topper, and back and stomach sleepers may favor a thinner, firmer option.
Quality Materials
Materials directly affect the performance and durability of a topper. Quality materials may last longer, which may be especially important for people seeking a firm, even sleep surface that resists long-term body impressions. While toppers made of quality components generally cost more upfront, they may be a better value if this quality enhances their lifespans.
Toppers may use memory foam, polyfoam, latex, feathers, down, down alternative, and/or wool. However, firm toppers usually use either memory foam, polyfoam, or latex to balance contouring and support.
Firmness Level
Sleepers who find their existing mattress too soft often select firm toppers to adjust the feel. A firm topper on a firm mattress may also help protect the bed from wear and tear to extend its lifespan.
Shoppers should remember that firmness is subjective, and many factors can influence how firm a topper feels. For instance, a medium topper may seem firm to a sleeper who weighs under 130 pounds, especially if it is relatively thin and the mattress beneath is firm. Similarly, a firm topper could seem soft to an individual who weighs over 230 pounds, particularly if it is thin and their bed is soft.
Thickness
Toppers usually range between 1 and 4 inches thick. The thickness determines how significantly it will adjust the feel of the sleep surface. A thicker option may be better if you’re looking for a firm topper because your mattress is much too soft for you, but a thinner selection may do the trick if you want your bed a bit firmer than it is currently.
Pressure Relief
Most toppers provide some degree of pressure relief, but this varies based on their construction and thickness, and your body type. Toppers usually redistribute the sleeper’s body weight to take pressure off critical areas, like the hips and shoulders.
Firm toppers often don’t have the same level of pressure relief as softer models, but many still provide contouring and cushioning. Individuals who weigh more than 230 pounds will likely experience more pressure relief on a firm topper than their lightweight counterparts because they sink into the topper more.
How to Make a Mattress Firmer
One of the quickest and easiest ways to make a bed feel firmer is to use a mattress topper. Toppers tend to be much more affordable than purchasing a new mattress, and you can simply remove them or change them out if your preferences change over time. But while purchasing a topper is an excellent option, it is not the only option. Other methods can also make your existing mattress firmer.
Giving your mattress more support is one way. Using a foundation instead of a box spring can distribute the weight more evenly and limit sagging. Putting plywood between the mattress and the box spring or bed frame can also accomplish this, as can placing the mattress directly on the floor. Many warranty policies dictate what sort of support your mattress should have, so if you choose to change your setup, look over your warranty policy first to ensure you don’t inadvertently void it.
Memory foam mattresses soften when warm, so if you own a model with this material, simply turning down the temperature should make it firmer.
Two-sided mattresses may also feel firmer if you simply flip it and use the side with less wear. Similarly, most models should be rotated head to foot every few months for more even wear, which can limit soft spots.
If your efforts to make your bed more comfortable fail, purchasing a new mattress may be the ultimate solution to a better night’s sleep. Guided by feedback from our product testing team, our best mattress picks can help you find a model that meets your needs and preferences.
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Danny is a Certified Sleep Science Coach with an in-depth knowledge of sleep health. He has tested hundreds of mattresses and sleep products.
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