Written by Julia Forbes, Sleep Advisor Product Tester
Mattresses can wear out over time, and your support needs could change as you age. If you’re not quite ready to buy a new bed, a mattress topper could be all you need for a comfortable night of sleep. With a mattress topper’s additional pressure relief or heightened support, your body could benefit without the high price tag of a mattress.
We’ve gathered our favorite brands and done the research for you, presenting the most important aspects of each model to help you choose with ease. After testing dozens of sleep products, our team has picked the best mattress toppers you can buy in 2024.
The 10 Best Mattress Topper Picks
- Saatva Graphite Memory Foam Mattress Topper – Best Luxury Mattress Topper
- Nolah Mattress Topper – Best Durable Mattress Topper
- Molecule Triple Zone Pro Topper – Best Mattress Topper for Lower Back Pain
- Brooklyn Bedding Microcoil Mattress Topper – Best Supportive Mattress Topper
- Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt – Best Mattress Topper for Pressure Relief
- Brooklinen Down Alternative Mattress Topper – Best Down Alternative Mattress Topper
- Peacock Alley Down Alternative Mattress Topper – Best Mattress Topper for Back Sleepers
- Puffy Deluxe Mattress Topper – Best Memory Foam Mattress Topper
- Coop Sleep Goods Retreat Mattress Topper – Best Cooling Mattress Topper
- PlushBeds 100% Natural Latex Topper – Best Latex Mattress Topper
My Video Review of The Best Mattress Toppers
Sleep Advisor’s Testing Methodology
At Sleep Advisor, our product reviews are based on findings from in-person tests that allow us to have a genuine understanding of how the product feels and performs.
For this roundup, we prioritized features that are especially important for mattress toppers. We paid special attention to components such as topper thickness, support elements, motion transfer, and cooling features.
What We Look for in the Best Mattress Toppers
Quality Materials
The right kind of materials can bring longevity and a better topper experience. We focused on including toppers from established, trusted brands that incorporate durable, quality materials like memory foam, latex, or down alternative.
Support
For many folks, a topper is a means to get more support from their bed space, which is why we’ve included products that we feel could help folks get the support they need. We’ve included multiple foam and latex toppers, which are often helpful with this, particularly if they’re firmer.
Pressure Relief
Another reason why people invest in a topper is to get added pressure relief from their bed. With this in mind, we wanted to include toppers made with pressure-relieving materials like memory foam.
Best Mattress Topper Reviews
Saatva Graphite Memory Foam Mattress Topper – Best Luxury Mattress Topper
Saatva Graphite Mattress Topper
A luxurious topper with contouring support from its graphite infusion.
Saatva Score
4.80 / 5
Read Full ReviewThis topper should extend the lifespan of your bed all while improving comfort at the same time. Along with the Graphite Memory Foam model, you can choose from a latex or high-density foam design.
Nolah Mattress Topper – Best Durable Mattress Topper
Nolah Mattress Topper
A 2-inch mattress topper offering excellent cooling and pressure relief.
Nolah Score
4.90 / 5
Read Full ReviewNolah’s mattress topper offers an amazing find for shoppers looking to enhance their sleep space. This American-made topper contains the company’s patented AirFoam™️. This breathable foam is made to deliver the comfort of memory foam but doesn’t come with the heat retention that memory foam can often have. Additionally, Nolah says their proprietary foam provides more durability and pressure relief than traditional memory materials.
Molecule Triple Zone Pro Topper – Best Mattress Topper for Lower Back Pain
MOLECULE Tri Zone PRO Topper
This three-zoned memory foam mattress topper provides extra pressure relief alongside a cooling, anti-microbial cover.
This topper, true to its name, has three distinct “zones” that provide different levels of support. Most notably, the region under your hips and lumbar region should give your midsection the lift it needs for sustained spinal alignment—a key ingredient for preventing lower back pain.
Brooklyn Bedding Microcoil Mattress Topper – Best Supportive Mattress Topper
Brooklyn Bedding Microcoil Mattress Topper
A multi-layered topper that includes microcoils for added contouring and support.
With four total layers, including a layer of individually wrapped “microcoils,” this topper almost seems like a mattress in miniature.
Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt – Best Mattress Topper for Pressure Relief
TEMPUR-Adapt + Cooling Mattress Topper
Offers 3 inches of support for superior pressure relief.
Tempur-Pedic Score
4.50 / 5
Read Full ReviewThe TEMPUR-Adapt® topper is constructed with an extra inch of the company’s proprietary Tempur® material, which sets it apart from their other products. This product is resistant to dust mites and other allergens, making it a great option for someone with allergies.
Brooklinen Down Alternative Mattress Topper – Best Down Alternative Mattress Topper
Brooklinen Down Alternative Mattress Topper
A soft and silky down alternative topper with microgel filling and a waterproof barrier.
Sleepers who struggle with pressure buildup should find relief in this Brooklinen product This mattress topper features a microgel fill and tufted construction to create a plush and highly comfortable feel.
Peacock Alley Down Alternative Mattress Topper – Best Mattress Topper for Back Sleepers
Peacock Alley Down Alternative Mattress Topper
This down alternative mattress topper is stuffed with hypoallergenic holofill, finished off with a moisture-proof barrier, and a thick, soft box quilt design.
Back sleepers are often touted as the easiest type of sleeper to please, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re getting all they need from their current mattress. If you sleep on your back, you need the right amount of balance: softness and support. Peacock Alley’s Down Alternative Mattress Topper adds both to your bed.
Puffy Deluxe Mattress Topper – Best Memory Foam Mattress Topper
Puffy Deluxe Mattress Topper
A mattress topper with two firmness options.
Puffy Score
5.00 / 5
Read Full ReviewThere’s a lot to love about memory foam, and if you’re in the market for a topper made with this material, we think the Puffy is worth your consideration.
Coop Sleep Goods Retreat Mattress Topper – Best Cooling Mattress Topper
Coop Retreat Mattress Topper
This hypoallergenic topper can make your mattress feel softer and more pressure-relieving to cradle the hips, knees, and shoulders.
Coop Score
4.90 / 5
If you’ve found that your current mattress sleeps too hot or you just want extra cooling to help you rest easier, a mattress topper can be a budget-friendly option to keep your bed space cool. This topper from Coop Sleep Goods features a unique memory foam and microfiber blend that’s designed to foster better airflow than other memory foam options.
PlushBeds 100% Natural Latex Topper – Best Latex Mattress Topper
PlushBeds Natural Latex Mattress Topper
Made of natural latex and extremely customizable.
Plushbeds Score
4.90 / 5
Plushbeds prioritizes support without compromising soft comfort. The company uses latex made from organic, naturally grown rubber trees, so you know you’re resting on a sustainable and quality product.
What to Look For in a Mattress Topper
Quality Materials
As you search for your new topper, you’re going to want something with quality materials that are durable and will work for your needs. Different materials can produce varying results, so it’s helpful to know how they compare. We’ve included the most common materials you’ll encounter, but you may find some other choices out there in your search.
- Memory foam – This is often considered the ‘gold standard’ for pressure relief. Memory foam is fantastic at cradling sleepers to relieve tension and pressure buildup. It’s also highly durable. You’ll find many great memory foam toppers out there that can deliver exceptional comfort and support. Get More Info: Best Memory Foam Mattress Toppers
- Poly foam – Poly foam is a standard, lower-cost option than memory foam. These are often good for giving folks some extra support and cushioning but aren’t as high-quality as memory foam.
- Latex – Latex toppers are often sustainably made. Plus, with more naturally made ones, you won’t get that new chemical smell you can experience with synthetic foam products like memory foam. Latex is great for pressure relief and support, but it’s also highly responsive, usually providing some buoyancy.
- Down alternative – These toppers aren’t as thick as the foam ones but many people like them, especially for extra cushioning on their mattress. Often, we see down alternative toppers with baffle-box stitching for even fill distribution. Since these are considerably thinner than some foam ones, they can be less supportive.
Support
If your bed is starting to sag a bit and you need a little extra oomph to keep you lifted, a supportive topper can help. These can help add a few years to your mattress before you need to buy a new one.
Supportive toppers are usually going to be thicker and firmer; think a firm memory foam or latex topper. These can be helpful to just about anyone who needs support from their bed, but there are a few groups who may really benefit from a supportive topper, such as plus-size sleepers, stomach sleepers, and back sleepers.
Pressure Relief
When you sleep, pressure can build up around the areas of the body that make contact with the bed, which can cause you to wake up with aches and pains.
People who aren’t getting enough pressure relief from their mattress might opt for a topper as an economical solution. There are lots of great toppers that can aid with pressure relief. Memory foam is a top contender since this material is so great at conforming to the sleeper’s shape. However, softer latex and down alternative models can also provide extra comfort to achy joints and pressure points.
Sleep Position
The position that you prefer to sleep in can help you determine what kind of mattress topper will work best for you.
Back and Combination Sleepers
Those who sleep on their back or in two or more positions will likely appreciate a mattress pad that makes their bed have a medium-firm feel. To accomplish this, you may want to look to memory foam or latex toppers.
Stomach Sleepers
Those who sleep on their stomach typically like a firm sleeping surface, like a very firm foam or latex topper, that will help keep their hips elevated.
Learn More: Best Mattress Topper for Stomach Sleepers
Side Sleepers
People who sleep on their sides often benefit from a softer mattress topper, such as plush memory foam or down alternative, because these can help relieve pressure around their hips and shoulders.
Topper Weight & Thickness
Topper thickness is important because it can impact comfort and support.
Usually, latex or memory foam toppers usually provide the best range when it comes to thickness. The thickness (whether memory foam or latex) will usually range between 1 and 5 inches. That said, we often see most toppers go between 2 and 4 inches thick. The thicker the topper is, the more support and cushioning you can expect from it.
You should also consider how much the topper weighs, particularly if you plan to move it a lot or on your own. Toppers won’t be nearly as heavy as mattresses, but for those with limited mobility, they can still be difficult to lift.
Firmness
The firmness (how hard or soft the topper feels) depends on what you want and what works best for you.
Typically, stomach sleepers can benefit more from a firmer surface while side sleepers would need something softer. Back sleepers, on the other hand, would need a comfortable blend of support and cushioning.
However, the right firmness is also dependent on the status of your bed. For example, maybe you’re a back sleeper with a bed that’s too firm, in which case you might prefer a noticeably softer topper to balance things out. This is why it’s good to have a trial period so you can see what you like.
Find Out More: Best Firm Mattress Toppers & Highest Rated Soft Bed Toppers
Cooling
Do you run hot at night? Is your bed not pulling its weight when it comes to cooling? This is where a topper with cooling features could help. It might not be the first thing on your mind, but if your bed isn’t great for cooling, this could be a big help.
For those who love memory foam, definitely get a topper with cooling gel added in since this material can easily get warm. Latex is naturally breathable, while many others add in breathable materials like cotton to help cool things off.
Check Out Our Guide: Best Cooling Mattress Topper
Motion Isolation
When you’re looking for a mattress topper that prevents one partner’s movements from transferring across the bed, you will likely appreciate the motion-isolating capabilities of a mattress topper made from memory foam. The dense, pressure-relieving nature of this material does an exceptional job of absorbing motion.
Sex
A mattress topper that provides responsiveness can improve the experience for sexually active couples. If you’re trying to give your bed more bounce, you will likely want to consider a mattress topper made from latex. Latex quickly responds to the pressure of body weight, and this can allow you to reposition more smoothly.
Edge Support
Edge support is how well your mattress supports you around the perimeter. If your bed sags when you sit on the edge, you can add a firmer mattress topper to provide some additional support. This will help you get in and out of bed more easily and give you more usable surface space, which can be beneficial for couples. Firm memory foam toppers can be a good choice because the density of the material can often provide support around the edge of the mattress.
Budget
How much you spend on a mattress topper will likely be a factor in the product you ultimately purchase. Although toppers are considerably less expensive than mattresses, they will likely cost anywhere from $100 to $500, depending on the materials and the overall quality. That said, they’re still a fantastic, budget-friendly way to improve your sleep space.
Mattress & Sheet Compatibility
While you can find toppers in sizes ranging from Twin to King and California King, you will need to know the exact size of your mattress to secure the perfect fit. If you purchase a smaller or larger bed topper, this is going to make your entire bed feel a bit uneven.
Additionally, you’ll want to make sure that your fitted sheet has deep enough pockets to fit around the topper and the mattress. If your sheets can’t secure properly around the height of your mattress and topper, they may come off during the night.
When Is the Best Time to Buy a Mattress Topper?
It may be time to buy a mattress topper if:
Your mattress is showing its age: Mattresses are major investments and even if your bed is not as comfortable as it used to be, you may not want to buy a new one. Mattress toppers can be a good way to extend the life of your mattress.
Your bed is too soft or too firm: Sometimes we make a purchase and then aren’t completely satisfied with it. If you have bought a bed that is too soft or too firm, a mattress topper can be a simple way to change the feeling of your back.
You’re heating up during the night: If your mattress is not helping you regulate your temperature throughout the night, you’re likely not getting enough quality sleep. Adding a cooling topper can be a cost-effective way to bring the temperature of your mattress down.
You have aches and pains: If you’re waking up with a tight or aching back, shoulders, hips, or neck, your mattress may be to blame. A soft, contouring mattress topper may be what you need. Check out our top-rated mattress toppers for back pain and list of best mattress toppers for hip pain.
Mattress Toppers vs. Pads vs. Protector vs. Encasement
Mattress Toppers
Mattress toppers are usually more expensive and thicker than mattress pads. They’re also generally more comfortable. You’ll usually experience a more noticeable difference with a topper than a pad.
Mattress Pads
A mattress pad is usually more affordable and thinner than a mattress topper. While they don’t bring the same amount of comfort, they can still bring a lot of great features and help enhance a bed space.
View Our Guide: Top-Rated Mattress Pads
Read More: Mattress Pad vs. Topper
Mattress Protector
A mattress protector is usually used to secure the mattress from issues such as allergic reactions or bedwetting, for example. These features, however, could easily be added in a topper or a pad so you wouldn’t need an additional purchase. However, a protector alone won’t provide extra support or cushioning.
Need more info? Read our full guide for mattress protectors here.
Mattress Encasement
Mattress encasements are usually designed to provide you with the ultimate defense against bed bugs and are commonly used in hotels. Similar to a protector, though, these don’t enhance the comfort or support of the bed.
Read More: Top Mattress Encasement Reviews
Buying Considerations For A Mattress Topper
Best Mattress Topper FAQs
What is a mattress topper?
A mattress topper is a bedding accessory that can add support, softness, firmness, and even cooling capabilities to a mattress. Toppers are usually 1-5 inches thick and are available in a multitude of materials such as latex or memory foam. These are often used to soften an overly firm mattress but can be used to add support to a worn mattress.
How thick should a mattress topper be?
The thickness of your mattress topper will be largely determined by your body type, sleep position, and overall needs. Usually, you’ll get more enhanced support and/or cushioning from a thicker topper, whereas a thinner one likely won’t provide as noticeable a difference.
Can mattress toppers be washed?
Some mattress toppers can be washed while others should only be spot cleaned. You will need to read each manufacturer’s specific instructions about the care of your topper.
Do mattress pads provide support?
Yes, some mattress pads can provide support. If you’re looking for a supportive topper, you will want to take the material, firmness level, and thickness into account. Generally, toppers made from memory foam or latex will provide you with the most support.
My Final Thoughts
Ultimately, you would have the last word. It is up to your personal preferences to make sure you get a topper that will accommodate your sleeping habits. Since there are so many choices out there, my best tip is to narrow down what’s most important to you in a topper and go from there.
Still looking for the best bed to go with your new topper? Explore the best mattresses of 2024.
Julia Forbes
Sleep Advisor Product Tester
About Author
Julia is a product tester at Sleep Advisor, specializing in testing out mattresses and sleep accessories – she’s in the right line of work, because she loves to sleep.
Stomach Sleeper