If your mattress is old and nearing the end of its lifespan, then a mattress topper can provide a temporary fix until you’re ready to purchase a new bed. Toppers are layers of cushioning material that rest between your body and the mattress surface. Some toppers are designed to be tucked beneath a fitted sheet, while others have corner straps or elasticated edges to secure them to the mattress. Common topper materials include memory foam, convoluted, polyfoam, latex, wool, and feathers.
A topper can be especially useful for mattresses that have developed deep impressions or indentations over time. Most toppers measure between 1 and 4 inches thick. As a general rule of thumb, the thicker the topper is, the more it will change the feel of your overall surface. Thinner toppers are best suited to mattresses with minor wear and tear, while a high-profile topper can be a good investment if your mattress is on its last leg. However, a topper should not be seen as a permanent solution – you’ll eventually need to replace your mattress to ensure restful, healthy sleep.
Our in-house testing goes beyond mattresses. We’ve personally evaluated dozens of mattress toppers and use the same criteria to assign sleeper and performance ratings for each one. The standout models from our topper tests are outlined below. Scroll down to learn more about our best mattress topper picks.
