When you receive a new furniture item or even an electronic gadget, it generally comes all neatly wrapped up in plastic and the reason is to protect the item whilst in transit. Once you have it in your grubby hands, you remove the lovely envelope and expose it to the elements, your kids paws, and leakages of all sorts.
Using a mattress topper or protector is like covering your cell phone with a protective covering or holder. You may ask yourself what in hells name could possibly mess up my mattress. Well, you asked the question. Here are the dirty details.
In this really long article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about mattress toppers. We also give you detailed guide on choosing the best mattress topper for your own needs. You can find your perfect topper easier with our top picks (top 10 best mattress toppers). Now, go ahead!
Also known as a mattress pad, it is literally a thinner version of a traditional full mattress. They are lesser in height but often made of the same types of material as found in a thicker full size such as a latex or foam based model. They are most commonly one consistent layer between 1” and 5” thick which you place directly ontop of your existing surface, and then place your bedding over this new top layer. As you can see in the picture above, the thick white base is in fact the original mattress, the blue layer is the pad, and the white cover is the bedding, although you can actually get a separate cover for the pad itself if you want one.
A mattress pad is slightly different to the conventional toppers mentioned above but essentially serve the same purpose. A pad you could say resembles a very thick duvet but is placed under the bedding. They are available in all the standard sizes and usually stuffed with materials such as polyester or cluster fiber, making them soft and plush rather than firm or supportive. A mattress pad is a cheaper alternative to the aforementioned toppers due to the materials they consist of and the reduced longevity in comparison, however they are still great for a good nights sleep if you’re on a tight budget.
Why do you need a Mattress Topper:
Here are a few salient pointers to think about as to why you may need a mattress topper in your life.
Protection Police
A good mattress topper will protect against unexpected spillages and leakages, and by leakages we mean perspiring and all and every sort of bodily fluids. It is best to make sure you buy a 100% waterproof cover if you feel you need it. For example, if you have a baby that sleeps with you, toddlers that regularly play on your bed, if you eat and drink in the bed, if you sweat profusely during sleep, or if you find that sexual interludes leave the bed a wee bit wet. In fact, just err on the side of caution and invest in an additional mattress protector if you are not sure of the topper’s waterproofness.
Warranty War
A mattress topper can extend the lifespan of your mattress up to 10 years. Most give you a warranty of around 3 years, but if you take care of the topper, wash it according to instructions, change it regularly and generally look after it, you can extend that 3 year warranty to 10 quite easily.
Bugs Be Gone
A topper for your mattress wards off dust mites that generally live deep in the folds of the mattress. No matter whether you change your bedding regularly, the mattress is never cleaned. That little vacuum run you do over the top is only sucking up some dust, but those nasty little gremlins that hide away or snug like … well, like bugs, can be kept at bay by your topper.
Hygienic and Happy
Using a mattress topper is more hygienic. And makes sense to use one for the very reason that we shed our skin, and often. Dead skin can leave behind bacteria which can embed itself into the mattress, cause bugs to develop and … well … you see where we are going with this?
Comfort Factor
When you need that extra bit of comfort for your much needed sleep, then pack on a mattress topper. That little bit of padding will give you more comfort than you could possibly imagine. Note that not all mattress toppers are built for this purpose. Some are just for protection, so be sure to check out if your topper comes with padding and a warmth aspect to boot.
Rejuvenate an Oldie
If you have an old mattress that is lumpy and uncomfortable, sometimes a mattress protector can add some comfort, with that extra layer. They can make you think you, in fact, have a brand new mattress, just because it is blocking those lumpy bits.
Best Mattress Topper Reviews
[su_box title=”1. Linenspa 2inch” style=”soft” box_color=”#191919″]With over 1,531 consumer reviews and a 4.2 out of 5.0 rating, this makes it our most recommended purchase.
Owners of the Linenspa also highlighted that it retains body heat, which we believe is a significant added benefit. However, the main complaint about them is that they often have an unpleasant odor when new. However most owners say this goes away within a few days of use. However, the Linespa 2″ Ventilated mattress topper offers superior comfort and pressure relief, combined with a 3 year warranty.
[su_box title=”2. Memory Foam Solutions – AllSleep” style=”soft” box_color=”#191919″]Their latest addition is a top quality 3″ memory foam mattress topper, which is a great amount of thickness for the small amount of money you pay. The supportive 4 lbs viscoelastic foam conforms to your body perfectly and instantly makes any mattress more restful, comfortable and supportive especially in sagging areas. Currently a best seller across many online retailers, the owner verified reviews rate this product 5 out of 5, and we certainly agree; it does a great job reducing pressure points that cause you to toss and turn, so you sleep better and wake up refreshed or back pain free. In all, this is a highly recommended product and probably the best memory foam mattress topper available at the moment in our opinion.
[su_box title=”3. Lucid – Gel Pad” style=”soft” box_color=”#191919″]The 2.5 inch thick cooling gel mattress topper is a great addition to the market at the right price too. Gel is relatively new in terms of sleeping technology but that’s not to say it’s no good, infact it captures and distributes heat so there is minimal unnatural rise in body temperature, which is a common flaw in viscoelastic foams. This one is also ventilated to increase air flow and comes with a super-soft, removable bamboo cover which is an added bonus. We like this one for many reasons and feel it’s well worth the money.
[su_button url=”https://www.toptworeviews.com/product/B00A1POX8Y/US/toptworeviews.com-20/” target=”blank” style=”stroked” background=”#ff7700″ size=”6″ icon=”icon: hand-o-up” class=”amz-btn”]Check Price At Amazon[/su_button][/su_box]
[su_box title=”4. Ultimate Sleep – ErgoSoft” style=”soft” box_color=”#191919″]This natural latex mattress topper is made from 100% organic latex and comes in almost all sizes such as full, twin, twin xl, queen, king, california king. Although we have reviewed the 2″ version it is worth noting that its also available in 3″ and 4″ versions too. The springy layer of naturally hypoallergenic and anti-microbial latex provides a great level of orthopedic support for the money; compared to a full size latex mattress which could cost thousands of dollars, this cheaper option is a must buy for latex lovers.
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[su_box title=”5. ExceptionalSheets – Extra Plush” style=”soft” box_color=”#191919″]If latex or foam isn’t your thing then you should certainly try what we consider the best mattress pad on sale at the moment. Their Extra Plush Rayon From Bamboo model is a great option for adding an extra layer of silky luxurious softness to your current sleep surface. The top-quilted natural bamboo fabric cover houses the hypoallergenic, plush, synthetic cluster fiber. Readily available in mattress sizes ranging from Twin to California King and even Olympic Queen, this pad is an overall recommended purchase from a trusted USA based company who also promise a 100% no quibbles money back guarantee.
[su_button url=”https://www.toptworeviews.com/product/B009GIRZEG/US/toptworeviews.com-20/” target=”blank” style=”stroked” background=”#ff7700″ size=”6″ icon=”icon: hand-o-up” class=”amz-btn”]Check Price At Amazon[/su_button][/su_box]
[su_box title=”6. DreamFoam Bedding – Ultimate Dreams Talalay” style=”soft” box_color=”#191919″]The 3″ blended talalay latex mattress topper is proving to be an extremely popular sleep surface for those with a little extra cash. It’s not exactly cheap, but for a fraction of the price of a new mattress you get 3 inches of firm, supportive, ventilated, hypoallergenic mattress wrapped in an attractive natural bamboo cover. Though it’s not 100% natural latex like other reviews on this page, this one really does have a luxurious feel but without being too firm or too soft. What’s more is that it’s available in the rare Short Queen size unlike others. Our findings were as expected from this one; given the trusted name we kind of knew what to expect, so another thumbs up to the team who seem to be producing top rated products on a regular basis.
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Types of Mattress Toppers
Egg Crate Mattress Topper
Egg Crate Mattress Toppers or foam mattress toppers are the most economical and simplest out of all the types. They serve their purpose without adding any bells and whistles.
But for those that just want to protect the mattress and add a little bit of comfort these are perfect.
Wool Mattress Topper
The all-natural feel of wool will always be a winner when it comes to sleep. They provide warmth in the colder months and are great with allergy sufferers. When it comes to bedbugs and such, they are brilliant, as they are quite resistant to these pests.
The wool used is generally lambs wool, which is one of the softest types. The con is that wool is expensive but very durable. To wash a wool mattress topper, it is best to steam or dry clean due to the sensitive nature of the fabric. However, there are some that can be machine-washed. Be sure to check the label instructions.
Memory Foam Mattress Topper
Memory Foam Mattress Toppers are all the rage nowadays. Memory foam was originally first used by NASA to add comfort to the extreme pressure caused by G-force during takeoff. Further, along the line, the medical fraternity started using memory foam to support patients who developed pressure sores or were bed-bound for long periods of time. While it was an expensive material then, it has come full circle and we are able to afford this magic fabric in the form of a mattress topper, among other items.
They are the perfect solution for when you have a restless sleeping partner. The memory aspect pertains to both sides of the bed and means you will not be disturbed by a tosser and turner. In addition, if you have any aches and pains, or suffer from joint issues, the memory foam will support and comfort these troublesome areas.
Note that asthma suffers or those prone to allergies should be aware that most Memory Foam Mattress Toppers are not hypoallergenic, so be sure to look for those that do cover this.
Another cautionary note is that, because of the foam element of the memory mattress toppers, they generally do not breath well, causing overheating in the night. But, there are those that have a breathable element.
Down Feather Mattress Topper
Down Feather, anything is soft and generally bought for the comfort factor. They have the uncanny way of bringing warmth in winter and keeping you cool in summer. With regards to movement, they do assist in alleviating overall movement on the bed from a restless partner, but not so much like a Memory mattress topper would.
As for those suffers of joint or muscular aches this mattress topper won’t do the trick, as they are quite soft and not very firm at all. As for the dust mites and bed bugs, there are some brands that wash the feathers out with a certain substance that helps keep the pests at bay.
Latex Mattress Topper
The latex mattress topper is also another favourite amongst Americans and with good reason. These toppers are made from the sap of an organic rubber tree. And as it is with rubber it is soft and pliable. So much so that some complain about the softness. However, if you have a mattress that needs a little firming up or even a mattress that needs some softening up, a latex topper will do the trick both ways.
Latex mattress toppers are durable and resilient, especially for those heavier bodies. As they are made from rubber, they are environmentally friendly to boot. These toppers may do better in the colder months as they retain quite a bit of heat, so you may want to consider a down feather topper for warmer nights.
A short video about Latex foam vs Memory foam:
Which Mattress Topper Type is the Best?
So, we have given you the rundown on the types of mattress toppers available on the market. And, of course, as it is with every purchase, some work better for some folk and others work for better for other folk.
Key Points to Remember When Purchasing Mattress Topper
Firmness Issue
You need to know what type of support system you prefer – soft, medium or very firm. And this all depends on a few factors:
– the way you sleep – tummy, back or sides
– whether you have ailments or joint and ligament issues
– what type of mattress you are used to
The Wet Factor
And by this we mean that if you are a heavy sweater whilst sleeping, be sure to check whether your new topper is breathable and has a cooling agent built in. There is nothing worse than waking up drenched in sweat and sticking to the sheet and topper, or even worse, having soaked the entire bed including your partner.
Restless Mates
If your partner or you are restless sleepers, tossing and turning a lot during the night, ensure your mattress topper has a firm control to eliminate or reduce movement. A firmer mattress will mean that the one side won’t sag as the other side moves. There is a great old advert of a tiger climbing onto a mattress next to a sleeping woman. She doesn’t stir at all because the mattress is that stable and firm. That’s the type of mattress you want.
Warm or Cool?
If warmth is important to you, then you may want to go with a mattress topper that provides maximum heating factor, like a wool type or duck feather. If you find you need to be cooler, then opt for a breathable more airy mattress topper. Some mattress toppers, like duck feather do pretty much both, i.e. cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
So, to give you the best mattress topper is not as simple as that. It really does depend on your needs and wants. We all want a good nights sleep in the end, but we all have different sleep patterns, habits, and irritations. Addressing those first is the key to finding the perfect mattress topper.
If pushed for a decision on what mattress topper type is king, then we would have to go with the memory foam type. Not too firm, not too soft, pliable, cool and breathable and generally an all-round winner.
Step by Step Guide On Purchasing a Mattress Topper
Follow these simple steps and you cant go wrong when looking to purchase a mattress topper:
Know what is important to you when sleeping, whether it be coolness, warmth, breathability, allergy control, cleanliness or even just simple comfort
Price is important. We all have a budget. Decide what that budget is and stick to it, without compromising too much on what is important, as in Step 1
Size of your mattress topper is dependent on the size of your bed. If in doubt as to what size bed/mattress you have, measure and ensure your topper will fit
Delivery is vital or at least knowing how the item will be delivered. Most stores or online shops will deliver but some charge if the purchase amount is below a certain amount. Be sure to check this out before you press checkout or swipe that card
Returns Policy and Warranty Policies are something to consider. While manufacturers always try to ensure you receive a fullproof and perfect product, sometimes errors occur. So, be sure to know what their return policy is all about and how long you can have the product for before you must return it for, either a full refund or swap. And in conjunction check their warranty policy term. The longer the better of course.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a mattress topper can be a real lifesaver for those who have trouble sleeping, suffer from insomnia, have terrible pressure points that ache and pain, have restless legs syndrome, get extremely cold or hot whilst sleeping or who toss and turn a lot during the night.
Choose wisely, weigh all the options up from:
+ price
+ firmness
+ density
+ movability
+ memory ability
+ warmth and coolness features
+ cleaning options
+ and your general overall tick list features
Spend your money wisely and you can get through at least 5 years of peaceful and restful sleeping with an amazing mattress topper.
With this article we tried to cover everything you need to know about mattress toppers and we also do extensive researches to have the best list of best mattress toppers in the market. We hope that this article will help you to choose the best mattress topper for your own needs.
Hello, my name is Jerry and I am an expert on pillows. While I’m sure that everyone has some expertise when it comes to a pillow since we spend a good 7 to 8 hours or more each night with at least one under our heads, I have developed a special interest in finding the right types of pillows that actually help you sleep better.
When I grew up, I really didn’t have an easy time getting a good night’s sleep because I didn’t understand that pillows are more than just bags full of stuffing. In fact, there are many different types of pillows and finding the right one can help you sleep better just like it does for me. Plus, I learned all about how your sleeping position affect the pillow you are using and which type is best for your particular needs.
Their latest addition is a top quality 3″ 
The 2.5 inch thick cooling gel mattress topper is a great addition to the market at the right price too. Gel is relatively new in terms of sleeping technology but that’s not to say it’s no good, infact it captures and distributes heat so there is minimal unnatural rise in body temperature, which is a common flaw in viscoelastic foams. This one is also ventilated to increase air flow and comes with a super-soft, removable bamboo cover which is an added bonus. We like this one for many reasons and feel it’s well worth the money.
[su_button url=”https://www.toptworeviews.com/product/B00A1POX8Y/US/toptworeviews.com-20/” target=”blank” style=”stroked” background=”#ff7700″ size=”6″ icon=”icon: hand-o-up” class=”amz-btn”]Check Price At Amazon[/su_button][/su_box]
[su_box title=”4. Ultimate Sleep – ErgoSoft” style=”soft” box_color=”#191919″]
This natural latex mattress topper is made from 100% organic latex and comes in almost all sizes such as full, twin, twin xl, queen, king, california king. Although we have reviewed the 2″ version it is worth noting that its also available in 3″ and 4″ versions too. The springy layer of naturally hypoallergenic and anti-microbial latex provides a great level of orthopedic support for the money; compared to a full size latex mattress which could cost thousands of dollars, this cheaper option is a must buy for latex lovers.
[su_button url=”https://www.toptworeviews.com/product/B000O01DNE/US/toptworeviews.com-20/” target=”blank” style=”stroked” background=”#ff7700″ size=”6″ icon=”icon: hand-o-up” class=”amz-btn”]Check Price At Amazon[/su_button][/su_box]
[su_box title=”5. ExceptionalSheets – Extra Plush” style=”soft” box_color=”#191919″]
If latex or foam isn’t your thing then you should certainly try what we consider the best mattress pad on sale at the moment. Their Extra Plush Rayon From Bamboo model is a great option for adding an extra layer of silky luxurious softness to your current sleep surface. The top-quilted natural bamboo fabric cover houses the hypoallergenic, plush, synthetic cluster fiber. Readily available in mattress sizes ranging from Twin to California King and even Olympic Queen, this pad is an overall recommended purchase from a trusted USA based company who also promise a 100% no quibbles money back guarantee.
[su_button url=”https://www.toptworeviews.com/product/B009GIRZEG/US/toptworeviews.com-20/” target=”blank” style=”stroked” background=”#ff7700″ size=”6″ icon=”icon: hand-o-up” class=”amz-btn”]Check Price At Amazon[/su_button][/su_box]
[su_box title=”6. DreamFoam Bedding – Ultimate Dreams Talalay” style=”soft” box_color=”#191919″]
The 3″ blended talalay latex mattress topper is proving to be an extremely popular sleep surface for those with a little extra cash. It’s not exactly cheap, but for a fraction of the price of a new mattress you get 3 inches of firm, supportive, ventilated, hypoallergenic mattress wrapped in an attractive natural bamboo cover. Though it’s not 100% natural latex like other reviews on this page, this one really does have a luxurious feel but without being too firm or too soft. What’s more is that it’s available in the rare Short Queen size unlike others. Our findings were as expected from this one; given the trusted name we kind of knew what to expect, so another thumbs up to the team who seem to be producing top rated products on a regular basis.
[su_button url=”https://www.toptworeviews.com/product/B00EOTITSI/US/toptworeviews.com-20/” target=”blank” style=”stroked” background=”#ff7700″ size=”6″ icon=”icon: hand-o-up” class=”amz-btn”]Check Price At Amazon[/su_button][/su_box]
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Memory Foam Mattress Toppers are all the rage nowadays. 
Down Feather, anything is soft and generally bought for the comfort factor. They have the uncanny way of bringing warmth in winter and keeping you cool in summer. With regards to movement, they do assist in alleviating overall movement on the bed from a restless partner, but not so much like a Memory mattress topper would.
The latex mattress topper is also another favourite amongst Americans and with good reason. These toppers are made from the sap of an organic rubber tree. And as it is with rubber it is soft and pliable. So much so that some complain about the softness. However, if you have a mattress that needs a little firming up or even a mattress that needs some softening up, a latex topper will do the trick both ways.
