We spend a lot of time in bed. That’s almost 3,000 hours a year, if you’re into numbers. That’s why it’s important that we make our beds as cozy as possible. While a mattress is the foundation of a comfortable bed, a mattress topper can be the icing on the cake – but only if you buy the right one.
Mattress toppers go on top of your mattress and offer extra comfort. The best mattress toppers provide an extra layer of support and cushioning. This can help keep your spine aligned and relieve aches and pains, especially in your shoulders and hips. You can also get mattress toppers to help keep you cool at night if you’re prone to overheating.
Just like with mattresses, there are many options for mattress toppers and it’s very easy to make a mistake. That’s why we spoke to some experts about the mistakes they would avoid when buying mattress toppers so you don’t waste your money.
1. Buying the wrong size
You need to make sure that your mattress topper fits your bed perfectly. If it sticks out or is missing something on the sides, you won’t get the same benefits as if it fits properly.
“Double-check the exact size of your mattress to make sure the topper fits properly,” says Simon Williams of the National Bed Federation. “This ensures the edges don’t come off the edge if it’s too big. Remember, you still need to put the mattress protector and bottom sheet on top! If it’s too small, then you won’t notice the full benefit of the topper if the surface of your mattress isn’t adequately covered.”
(Image credit: Slumberdown)
2. It’s not deep enough
Not all mattress toppers are the same thickness, and therefore not all offer the same comfort. You should avoid very thin mattress toppers, which are more like mattress protectors. Don’t get us wrong, the best mattress protectors are very important, but they serve a very different function.
“An important factor to consider is the depth of the mattress topper,” says Laura Tudor of John Lewis & Partners. “This will determine the level of comfort you receive from the topper, but also how this relates to the support provided by the mattress.”
“In general, you should choose a mattress topper with a minimum depth of 5cm or 2 inches. Anything less than that and you probably won’t see the benefit,” says Simon Williams of the National Bed Federation.
However, you should also be wary of mattress toppers that are too thick. “A mattress topper that is too thin may not provide the desired comfort and support, while one that is too thick can make the mattress feel too soft,” says Mary Love, product and sourcing manager at Simba.
(Image credit: Woolroom)
3. No grip
Another thing that can wake you up at night if you choose the wrong mattress topper is the sensation of slipping. This is especially a problem for those who move around a lot at night, but it can affect anyone. Choose mattress toppers that you can secure to your mattress well.
“Mattress toppers can slip around during the night, so look for one that has a non-slip fabric on the bottom or has elasticated corner straps that stretch over the mattress to keep it in place,” says Simon Williams of the Bed Federation.
After trying numerous mattress toppers, my advice is that the ones with elastic straps that go under the mattress are the best to prevent it from sliding around. Otherwise, having to readjust the topper can become a hassle every night, and it’s also a chore.
4. Avoid buying a new mattress
Mattress toppers are great, but they are… There is no substitute for a new mattressDon’t think that by buying a mattress topper you will get more use out of your mattress for years. There are some advantages Signs you need a new mattress – Ignoring them is at your own risk.
“Consumers often purchase a mattress topper to extend the life of a mattress that is no longer supporting the body at night,” says Dr. Oxeman of Sleep.8. “You should never purchase a mattress topper with the hope of replacing the support of a worn-out mattress.”
“Don’t make the mistake of buying a mattress topper if you’re simply trying to put off buying a new mattress,” advises Simon Williams of the National Bed Federation. “If your current mattress no longer offers you the comfort and support it once did and you’re not sleeping as well as you did when you bought it, you’re wasting your money by buying a mattress topper. It’s not a substitute for a properly supportive mattress.”
(Image credit: Future PLC/Chris Snook)
5. Choosing the wrong fibers
You spend a lot of time thinking about which fibers to put in your mattress. You should do the same with your mattress topper. Different fibers serve different functions: cooling, pressure relief, or comfort, for example. You need to think about what you want from your mattress topper and find a filling that suits your needs.
“Like mattresses, mattress toppers come in a variety of substrates, both natural and synthetic,” says Laura Tudor, bedroom furniture, down filled bedding and mattresses buyer at John Lewis & Partners. “Take into account the material of your mattress and whether you have any allergies when choosing the right mattress topper for you.”
“When purchasing a mattress topper, people often make the mistake of overlooking the importance of the fibre it is made from,” says Chris Tattersall, sleep expert and managing director of Woolroom. “This will significantly influence the overall support, comfort and durability of the mattress topper, as well as the quality of your sleep. Choosing fibres that meet your individual needs is crucial.”
‘For example, hot sleepers should avoid mattress toppers made from feathers or memory foam, as these materials can trap heat and cause discomfort at night,’ advises Chris Tattersall of Woolroom.
(Image credit: Future PLC)
6. Buying a topper that overheats you
As for fibers, you need to choose a mattress topper carefully if you’re at risk of overheating at night. You may have the most breathable mattress in the world underneath, but once you put a mattress topper on it, it could prevent you from staying cool in bed.
“If you sleep hot, it’s important to consider a mattress topper that has cooling properties to help regulate your temperature while you sleep,” says Laura Tudor of John Lewis & Partners.
“Hot sleepers should opt for mattress toppers made from natural, breathable and durable materials such as wool,” agrees Chris Tattersall of Woolroom. “Wool naturally regulates temperature, keeping you cool when it’s hot and warm when it’s cold, and it’s great at managing moisture as it wicks moisture away from the body more effectively compared to feather, down and synthetic fibre options.”
Mattress toppers you can’t go wrong with
This mattress topper includes a memory foam top layer for added comfort and plenty of breathability, something our reviewer loved.
The mattress topper is perfect if you’re looking for a specific size for a sofa bed or camper. It comes in a wide variety of size options to help you find the perfect fit.
Woolroom Luxury Wool Mattress Topper
If you’re looking for a cooling mattress topper with added comfort, you can’t do better than this wool mattress topper. Our hot sleeper reviewer couldn’t praise it enough.
Frequently asked questions
Do mattress toppers make a big difference?
After my years of testing mattress toppers, I can honestly say that yes, mattress toppers do make a huge difference.
As long as you don’t expect me to completely renew an old mattress, of course.
I find mattress toppers are great for adding an extra layer of comfort. If you find a mattress too firm, they are great for softening it up. Symptoms of a mattress being too firm include tingling and waking up with pain in your shoulders or hips.
However, this is only really relevant if you have a decent mattress to begin with. “Mattress toppers can help reduce pressure on the body and decrease pain, but in the long run it’s better to buy the right mattress,” says Dr Oxeman, sleep expert and global head of sleep science at Sleep.8.
How many inches of mattress topper is best?
As we’ve already discussed, the thickness of your mattress topper can have a real impact on its performance. If it’s too thin, you won’t notice any perceptible difference. If it’s too thick, it’ll be too soft. Ideally, it should be at least 5cm thick and no thicker than 10cm.
One last tip from a mattress topper fanatic: Buy deep fitted sheets and mattress protectors to allow for the extra depth the mattress topper creates.
