When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Products or services may be offered by an affiliated entity. Learn more.

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.

In-Depth Reviews

A firm feel and solid latex core make the Silk & Snow Organic Mattress Topper a great option for sleepers seeking extra support. Latex is naturally responsive, so you’ll notice a light bounce when you get into bed — this helps you move across the sleep surface without feeling stuck.

  • Pros

    1. Dunlop latex core is responsive, supportive, and durable

    2. Minimal heat retention and a breathable cover help ensure excellent temperature regulation

    3. GOLS and GOTS certifications indicate materials are sustainably sourced

  • Cons

    1. May not provide a close enough contour for side sleepers

    2. Couples may notice motion transfer that disrupts sleep

Price

$285

Material

100% GOLS-certified organic Dunlop latex

Firmness

Firm (7)

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.

Delivering a great balance of cushioning and support, ViscoSoft’s Select High Density Mattress Topper contains solid memory foam that contours evenly and excels at pressure relief. The cover is equipped with thick corner straps to minimize shifting when you change sleep positions.

  • Pros

    1. Memory foam core adjusts to the sleeper’s shape and relieves pressure

    2. Supportive build limits sinkage and promotes healthy sleep posture

    3. Mesh panel and ventilated core enhance cooling and air circulation

  • Cons

    1. Side sleepers under 130 pounds may not receive enough cushioning

    2. Foam emits a strong off-gassing odor for the first 72 hours after unboxing

Price

$200

Material

Gel-Infused memory foam

Firmness

Medium Firm (6)

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.

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.

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.

The Saatva High-Density Mattress Topper has a solid foam core that cushions and contours to the body without sinking too much. Our tests show the topper significantly improves the comfort level of sleep surfaces for side and back sleepers.

  • Pros

    1. Dense composition ensures even contouring without loss of shape

    2. Organic cotton cover promotes airflow and temperature control

    3. Thick corner straps secure the topper to your sleep surface

  • Cons

    1. May hug the body too closely for those seeking a topper that conforms lightly

    2. Foam emits an unpleasant off-gassing odor for the first few nights

Price

$295

Material

1.5″ High-Density Polyfoam

Firmness

Medium (5)

Some toppers provide firm support while others conform closely to reduce pressure along the spine. Thanks to a dense composition and medium (5) firmness level, the Saatva High-Density Foam Mattress Topper balances both qualities. You’ll notice a close yet even contour as your body settles into the foam, but the topper is firm enough to keep your body upright and resist excessive sinkage. A 1.5-inch profile makes this topper especially suitable if your mattress surface has shallow indentations and other signs of moderate — but not severe — wear and tear.

We generally recommend polyfoam for people who frequently wake up with aches and pains, but dislike the “hug” of memory foam. Rather than responding slowly and cradling your body, the polyfoam in this topper is somewhat springy and gently cushions your sore spots. Hands-on testing shows the topper should provide adequate pain and pressure relief for side and back sleepers up to 230 pounds, and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds.

Since the foam doesn’t hug your body too tightly, bothersome heat buildup shouldn’t be a major issue for most people. A breathable cover made from organic cotton also helps the topper sleep cool. You can unzip, remove, and machine wash the cover whenever a cleaning is needed. Each corner is equipped with a sturdy elastic strap to fit around your mattress and prevent the topper from shifting when you adjust your sleep position or toss and turn in your sleep. 

The High-Density Foam Topper is available in seven sizes, including a split king for couples who share adjustable beds. This is the most affordable topper in Saatva’s lineup, and all orders qualify for free ground shipping. Your purchase comes with a generous sleep trial spanning 180 nights in length. If you’re satisfied with your purchase after the return period ends, you’ll also receive a 1-year warranty against manufacturing defects.

Those seeking the utmost support from their sleep surface should consider the PlushBeds Natural Latex Topper – Extra Firm, which is one of the sturdiest and most responsive toppers our team has tested. The ventilated latex core resists heat buildup, making this topper ideal for hot sleepers as well.

  • Pros

    1. Four firmness options, including medium firm and extra firm

    2. Two profile selections for different degrees of sleep surface modification

    3. Core contains durable, sustainably sourced Talalay latex

  • Cons

    1. Above-average pricing for a topper

    2. Customers pay extra for a cover

Price

$511

Material

2-3″ natural Talalay latex

Firmness

Extra Firm (8)

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.

Brooklyn Bedding’s TitanFlex Topper contains a proprietary foam engineered to provide the cushioning of memory foam and the responsiveness of latex. The result is a layer that contours evenly and alleviates pressure without sinking too much beneath your weight.

  • Pros

    1. TitanFlex polyfoam balances conforming, support, and bounce

    2. Generous 3-inch profile significantly alters how your sleep surface feels

    3. Two fabric options available for the cover

  • Cons

    1. Limited “hug” for people who need extra pressure relief

    2. Foam emits harsh off-gassing for the first 72 hours after unboxing

Price

$224

Material

3″ TitanFlex polyfoam

Firmness

Firm (7)

If you’re in the market for a topper that offers strong support with a touch of cushioning, the Brooklyn Bedding TitanFlex Topper – Firm is a solid option. This model should feel very comfortable for sleepers who want a firm topper without sacrificing pressure relief.

The topper has a 3-inch depth and is composed of proprietary TitanFlex foam, which closely conforms to your body but also has the responsive quality of latex. With an overall firm (7) feel, the topper is ideal for back sleepers and certain stomach sleepers who need to keep their body on an even plane for healthy spinal alignment. The topper also comes in soft (3) and medium (5) models if you need a plusher surface.

You can choose between two options for the cover material. The organic cotton cover is breathable and soft, while the luxury cooling cover is a circular knit fabric with a cool, smooth feel. While some foam toppers are prone to heat retention due to the close hug around the body, the firm surface of this topper conforms less closely and traps less heat than some other foam toppers we’ve tested.

Brooklyn Bedding offers free shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. Toppers come with a three-year warranty as well as a 30-day return policy. Customers who return toppers within the return window may receive a full refund.

The Organic Latex Mattress Topper – Firm from Avocado is exceptionally supportive, breathable, responsive, and long-lasting. As an added bonus, the generous sleep trial allows shoppers to test the topper in their home for up to one year.

  • Pros

    1. Composed of GOLS- and GOTS-certified organic materials

    2. Ventilated latex core and breathable cotton cover ensure a comfortable temperature for sleeping

    3. Trial period spans 365 nights

  • Cons

    1. Limited contouring from those who enjoy being hugged by their sleep surface

    2. Expensive pricing may be a dealbreaker for budget-conscious shoppers

Price

$449

Material

2″ Talalay latex

Firmness

Firm (7)

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.

Nolah’s Mattress Topper – Luxury Firm offers light contouring and excellent pressure relief without too much sink. The open-cell foam composition is also an asset for hot sleepers seeking a topper that regulates temperature well and wicks moisture away from their body.

  • Pros

    1. Breathable organic cotton cover helps your sleep surface stay cool

    2. Adaptive foam relieves painful pressure and aches along the spine

    3. Medium firm design offers a nice balance of cushioning and support

  • Cons

    1. Back and stomach sleepers over 230 pounds may need a firmer topper

    2. Foam produces a strong off-gassing odor for the first 72 hours

Price

$399

Material

2″ AirFoam polyfoam

Firmness

Medium Soft (4), Medium Firm (6)

Foam toppers often earn high marks in our pressure relief tests since they adapt to sore spots to alleviate aches and pains. Take the Nolah Mattress Topper – Luxury Firm, a foam topper that cushions sore spots while maintaining a firm and supportive feel. Our testers felt minimal pressure buildup without excessive sinkage. 

The topper is made from proprietary AirFoam engineered to keep cooler than traditional memory foam. Organic cotton in the cover is naturally breathable and moisture-wicking, perfect for hot sleepers or those living in warmer climates. A 2-inch profile makes the topper well suited for sleepers looking for a little extra cushioning on their mattress or those who own beds with light to moderate wear. The topper features elasticated bands on the corners, allowing you to secure it to mattresses measuring between 10 and 15 inches tall. 

The topper has a medium firm (6) feel that was most comfortable for our side sleepers weighing at least 130 pounds. Our side-sleeping testers enjoyed the topper’s cushioning for sore shoulders and hips, while the firmer feel kept their bodies on an even plane. Those in lighter weight categories may prefer the topper’s medium soft (4) model. Back and stomach sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds may also enjoy the topper. The foam layers absorbed most movement and noise in our motion isolation tests, making it an excellent choice for those sharing the bed with a restless sleeper. 

All six standard sizes are available. Nolah ships free to customers living in the contiguous U.S. Topper purchases come with 30-night sleep trials and 10-year warranties against structural defects.

Much more supportive than the average foam topper, the Puffy Deluxe Mattress Topper – Firm is a solid choice for back and stomach sleepers. Our team was also impressed with the cover, which has an elastic border and can be tucked over your mattress corners much like a fitted sheet.

  • Pros

    1. Dense, solid foam core makes your sleep surface feel more supportive

    2. Elastic cover secures the topper to your mattress and minimizes shifting

    3. Below-average pricing for a memory foam topper

  • Cons

    1. Strong off-gassing smells after the topper is unboxed

    2. Cover’s pocket depth is limited to 15 inches

Price

$229

Material

2.5″ memory foam

Firmness

Firm (7)

Toppers made from solid memory foam can run expensive, but Puffy’s Deluxe Mattress Topper manages to be affordable without sacrificing quality or performance. The topper is available in two firmness levels, including a firm (7) model that contours very little and makes your sleep surface feel significantly more supportive. An innovative “stretch” cover and anti-slip base add to the appealing design.

A 2.5-inch profile ensures your mattress will feel noticeably different with the topper in place. Since the cover has elastic edges, you may tuck it around the corners of your mattress. The pocket depth is 15 inches, including the topper, so keep this limit in mind when measuring your mattress. A breathable poly-rayon blend gives the fabric a breathable feel with excellent moisture control.

You may unzip, remove, and machine-wash the cover to help your sleep area stay hygienic. The anti-slip base helps prevent shifting during the night, making the topper a solid choice for people who toss and turn or frequently change sleep positions. For added stability, you may place the topper beneath your fitted sheet.

In addition to its approachable sticker price, the Deluxe Mattress Topper qualifies for free ground shipping anywhere in the contiguous U.S. Puffy also backs each purchase with a 101-night sleep trial, which is considerably longer than average. If you decide to keep the topper after the return period ends, you’ll receive a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty.

The Turmerry Latex Mattress Topper is available in four firmness levels, practically ensuring any sleeper can find a comfortable option no matter how much they weigh or which sleep position they favor. The ventilated core also resists heat retention — a major selling point for hot sleepers.

  • Pros

    1. Multiple firmness and profile options

    2. Ventilated latex promotes airflow and sleeps cool

    3. Natural responsiveness helps facilitate movement on your sleep surface

  • Cons

    1. May not contour closely enough for people with persistent pressure points

    2. Bouncy feel can result in disruptive motion transfer for couples

Price

$225

Material

2-4″ zoned Dunlop latex

Firmness

Soft (3), Medium (5), Medium Firm (6), Firm (7)

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.

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.

Still have questions?

Our product experts have extensive experience testing just about every sleep product on the market.

Send an email to [email protected] with your questions and we’ll help you find exactly what you’re looking for.

Learn more about our Editorial Team