Whether you’re looking for the kind of cushioning that hugs a body, better support, or perhaps just a touch of softness—without the need to get a pricey new mattress—consider a mattress topper. Adding this to your mattress can make it a lot more comfortable, meaning a better night’s sleep.

Photo Illustration

Do you need one?
Different types of topppers
Best Natural Latex
Best Down Alternative (Fiber)
Best Memory Foam
Best Cheaper Memory Foam

Do you need a mattress topper?

It’s all about comfort. If your bed has become too firm making it uncomfortable, a mattress topper could return a softer, more plush feeling. If your hips, knees, shoulder and other pressure points have begun digging into your mattress causing pain and anguish, a new mattress topper could certainly be much a welcomed solution.

Different mattress topper types

Latex mattress toppers

Instead of your body sinking into a foam type topper, you’ll find yourself resting on the surface of natural latex. It’s bouncy, springy and buoyancy. That means you should retain less heat than say a memory foam topper. Latex toppers come in a variety of thickness and density, so you can choose depending on your sleeping habits and the amount of padding you want to add to your bed.

Memory foam toppers

Memory foam, aka viscoelastic foam, allows you to sink right in. The foam actually hugs your body, creating your contour. Memory foam has a slow recovery, meaning if you push your hand into it, you’ll see its shape remain when you pull away, but for only a little while. This is what happens when you lie on memory foam. It is far denser and supportive than latex, but also more expensive.

Memory foam is “temperature-responsive,” meaning it may feel firmer in a cold room and softer in a warm environment. And it radiates body heat which is good news for those who are always cold, but more of a nightmare for people who tend to run hot. Some toppers contain cooling gels to absorb additional heat, which can keep hot sleepers from sweating.

Down-alternative toppers

Also known as fiber-filled, these toppers are made to be similar to feather beds, but are filled with polyester or other synthetic fibers. This type of topper is great if you just need a bit more padding on your too-firm bed. This is not the best option if your current mattress is making you sore. But generally fiber toppers are an affordable option if you just want a slight pillow top for comfort and also for appearance.

After much research, feedback, and reviews, our EC Picks offer the best affordable mattress toppers in each category.

Best Natural Latex Topper

Pure Green Natural Latex Mattress Topper

Our pick for best latex model is the Pure Green Latex Mattress Topper. This lovely comes in a wide variety of sizes, thicknesses, densities, and prices. Most latex toppers offer more customization than other types, so you can choose depending on your sleep position or the amount of padding you want to add to your bed.

Best Fiber Mattress Topper

Parachute Down Alternative Feather Bed

This down alternative feather bed is a plush, lofty fiber mattress topper providing less cushioning than memory foam or latex.

PARACHUTE From $199.00

Best Memory Foam Topper

Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Topper Supreme

This dense topper can be pricey and for good reason. It cradles pressure points better than any other memory-foam model and never overheated our reviewers.

Also Good Memory Foam Topper

The Malouf Isolus 2-inch Ventilated memory foam mattress topper isn’t as luxurious as others, but doesn’t bottom out as others do. Although it’s somewhat pricey, we don’t think you’ll find a topper you’ll like for less.

Isolus 2-inch MemoryFoam Queen Topper

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kat says:

September 12, 2024 at 5:16 pm

hi, got a mattress couple yrs ago, was firm in the store, but after sleeping on it for 2 yrs, its not firm anymore, cant even turn over its so soft! what is a good topper that will give me the whole body support without the cushy softness? have fibromyalgia, so not getting good sleep/rest, I can feel the springs thru the mattress pad and all the padding built into the mattress – like the princess and the pea! lol. any suggestions for a firm, firm topper is much appreciated. havent found a thing…..

Mary Hunt says:
September 12, 2024 at 7:16 pm

I’m not sure any mattress topper will turn your current mattress into one with the firmness you need. However, I suggest you check this post: The Best Mattress Toppers to Help You Sleep Better. Hope that might help!

Mary Bran says:

June 21, 2024 at 9:41 am

Finding the right mattress topper can truly transform your sleep experience. As someone who values both comfort and quality, I appreciate how a good mattress topper can provide that extra layer of cushioning or support without breaking the bank on a new mattress. It’s a practical solution for anyone looking to enhance their sleep without a major investment.

I’ve been researching various options, and it’s clear that each type of mattress topper offers unique benefits. Whether it’s memory foam for that perfect contouring effect or latex for durability and support, there’s something to suit every preference and budget.

If you’re considering upgrading your sleep setup, I highly recommend exploring mattress toppers. They not only extend the life of your mattress but also contribute significantly to a better night’s rest. Plus, with so many options available online, finding the ideal topper tailored to your specific needs has never been easier.

Here’s to better sleep and waking up refreshed!

tig says:

December 4, 2023 at 4:33 pm

hi mary, have an adjustable frame with good mattress, didnt think the top was that soft. but after being on it for awhile, its way too soft, have fibro and arthritis, and it seems there isnt support. return period over, can you suggest a good topper that is VERY firm? thanks

Kari says:

August 23, 2023 at 6:01 am

I enjoy your email everyday and I have been looking for a good quality mattress pad, not a topper. Do you have any recommendations for this?
Thanks!

Mary Hunt says:
August 23, 2023 at 3:41 pm

You can click on the search icon on any page of this site and type in “mattress pad.” Searching here is super easy! Hope that helps.

Joan says:

August 23, 2023 at 4:05 am

Mary. Will any of these toppers help level a mattress that has body indents? Thanks

Mary Hunt says:
August 23, 2023 at 3:42 pm

I can’t make promises, but that is one purpose of a good mattress topper!

Courtney Follmer says:

December 29, 2022 at 6:41 am

Mary, I bought an $900 mattress a couple months ago and now it’s sagging in the middle. we’re rolling on top of each other. Is there anything that can be done to fix it or camouflage the effect? Thanks, Courtney

Mary Hunt says:
December 29, 2022 at 7:34 am

Really hard to say, Courtney with so little specific info. Is it possible that you have the wrong base? I’d contact the company that sold it to you and request a replacement or even a full refund. A good mattress lasts for years, not months.
Michelle Scholz says:
January 24, 2023 at 6:03 pm

I have always needed a mattress which gives great support but is still very comfortable. Often after using the mattress for a couple of years it loses its firmness and gets lumpy. I have used a piece of plywood the size of the mattress to support it and it has never been too firm. I think you will be pleased that the mattress feels like new and has many more years of life. Also it costs so little to try it. You have little to lose and I hope it’s a surprise how comfortable your bed can be.

Vicki P. says:

December 28, 2022 at 7:02 pm

We needed a new mattress about three years ago and got a memory foam topper from Costco instead.Very good choice. Like sleeping on a cloud and way cheaper than a new mattress. I did read that they need to be replaced every few years. So far so good, though.

Mary Hunt says:
December 29, 2022 at 7:40 am

You know I love Costco! Thanks for that tip, Vicki

The Best Mattress Toppers to Help You Sleep Better

CONTENTS

Do you need a mattress topper?