Behold: The 14 Best Mattress Toppers for Every Type of Sleeper
Here's how to sleep like a baby without spending tons of $$$ on a new mattress.
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Sometimes your bed just needs a little extra oomph—and, no, I'm not talking about more throw pillows. If your mattress is too soft, too firm, or in need of some temperature regulation, it's time to add a mattress topper. Hear me out: Even the best mattress toppers are sooo much less expensive than a new mattress. While no amount of memory foam can fix a crappy mattress, it can add an extra layer of softness and cushion capable of upgrading your sleep setup in a major way.
These days, just about every bedding and mattress brand offers a mattress topper, mattress pad, or mattress protector (which are all different, btw—more on that later), so picking the perfect one can be challenging. Are you a hot sleeper with a bad back? A side sleeper with shoulder pain? A college student with an uncomfortable dorm mattress? Don't sweat it bc I've got the best mattress toppers for every type of sleeper below, along with some helpful tips on how to find the right one. Here's a sneak peek at our top picks:
Our Top Picks for the Best Mattress Toppers of 2024
No two sleepers are exactly alike, so I've secured the best options for every material preference, bed size, and budget, from affordable memory foam and cooling latex to plush cotton pillow tops and five-star hotel-level down. While you're at it, level up your sheets and pillows for an even more luxurious sleeping set-up. Looks like bedrotting just became your new favorite activity (as if it wasn't already).
Pros
- Machine-washable
- Protects your mattress from stains
Cons
- Not as thick and cushiony as a foam mattress topper
If your bed is already pretty comfy, go for a thinner mattress pad that'll add a little extra cushion without totally changing the way your bed feels. This bestselling Saatva mattress pad won't just make your sleep arrangement even softer and cozier; it'll extend the life of your mattress by protecting it from spills and sweaty nights.
The diamond-quilted mattress pad is made from 300-thread-count organic cotton that dries quickly and shouldn't retain excess body heat. The stretchy side panels are finished with wide elastic bands that help the corners stay securely in place, even atop deep mattresses and other mattress toppers (bc yes, you can layer this guy on top of another memory foam topper). Best of all, the whole thing is machine-washable.
- Material: GOTS-certified organic cotton
- Height: 1 inch
- Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Split King, Cali King, Upper-Flex Queen, Upper-Flex King
Glowing customer review: "This mattress pad is unlike anything I've tried in the past. It's very plush yet doesn't add bulk to my mattress. The elastic band is so secure and the pockets are super deep, accommodating my thick mattress perfectly. I like knowing my mattress is protected by this plush layer. I think it'll really add years to it."
Pros
- Reduces motion transfer
- Cover is machine-washable
- Ideal for those who like a soft, cushiony bed
Cons
- May slide around a bit if you toss and turn
"I've long been wanting a memory foam bed but couldn't bring myself to buy a new mattress when my current one is still in great shape. This Tempur-Pedic topper option gives me all the comfort benefits of a memory foam bed at a fraction of the cost. The topper feels cool to the touch, and the sensation transfers well through sheets. It does slide around occasionally (especially if you move around a lot in your sleep) but it's incredibly easy to slide back into place. It's three inches thick, so it's got a real plush memory foam feel." says Ellen McAlpine, commerce editor.
Amazon reviewers say it's on the softer side, making it perfect for those who like to sink right in. They also point out that it helps reduce motion transfer, meaning you won't feel your partner's every move throughout the night. While you can't wash the memory foam topper itself, you can toss the cover in the washing machine to keep it fresh.
- Material: Memory foam
- Height: 3 inches
- Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Split King, Cali King
Glowing customer review: My mattress is as hard as a rock, this topper is legit the most amazing thing that I have ever slept on! I have a hard time getting out of bed because it's so freaking comfortable!
Pros
- Great for hot sleepers
- Temperature-regulating and moisture-wicking
- Machine-washable
Cons
- Some reviewers say it bunched underneath them while they slept
While your memory foam mattress may be the perfect temperature when you first lay down, it can quickly turn into a sauna. This cooling mattress topper from Slumber Cloud can make all the difference for hot sleepers (and those who share a bed with them). It utilizes moisture-wicking materials and NASA-engineered temperature-regulation technology to keep you cool and comfortable all night long. Oh, and sweaty sleepers will be thrilled to hear it's machine-washable.
This mattress pad won't drastically change the feel of your bed, so it's perfect for those who already love their mattress but hate how hot it makes them during the night. While the quilted design does add a bit of cushion, it's not anywhere close to the thickness of a memory foam topper.
- Material: Tencel shell with polyester fill
- Height: 1 inch
- Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Split King, Cali King
Glowing customer review: "I have tried so many mattress pads and returned them because they became hot in the middle of the night. This one does not! I awoke in the morning feeling comfortable, not cold but not overheated either. It does feel cold initially and does stay cold for several hours. Much better than any of the other ones I tried!"
Pros
- Conforms to your body shape
- Relieves pressure to minimize back and hip pain
- Cover is machine-washable
Cons
- Doesn't have straps to keep it in place
Memory foam mattress toppers can cost a pretty penny, and, though there are plenty of cheap mattress pads out there, it can be challenging to find something that's truly an affordable dupe for that luxury mattress brand you've been eyeing. Insert this editor-approved Allswell memory foam mattress topper that's under $200 at Walmart.
"I’ve raved about my Allswell mattress topper so much I’ve gotten multiple family members to buy it," says Mackenzie Dunn, senior commerce manager. "It automatically turns any mattress into a plush and soft yet supportive surface that feels as luxurious as any hotel bed. I love how it's just as thick as luxury mattress toppers, but doesn't anywhere near as much. One thing to note, though, is I don't find it particularly cooling—but I'm not a very hot sleeper, so this isn't an issue for me."
- Material: Memory foam
- Height: 3 inches
- Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King
Glowing customer review: "This far exceeded my expectations. It is very thick and extremely comfortable. It is on the softer side; if you like any type of firm mattress, this wouldn’t be for you. Even laid out on the ground it provided enough support and cushion."
Pros
- Great for dorm beds and stiff mattresses
- Thick enough for side sleepers
- Cover is machine-washable
Cons
- Doesn't have straps, so it may slide around
Dorm beds are notoriously uncomfortable, so a mattress topper for college (typically in a size Twin XL!) should be at the top of your dorm shopping list. This Comfy Mattress Topper from Casper has a responsive top layer featuring the same polyurethane memory foam as the brand's bestselling mattresses, along with AirScape perforated foam that temperature regulates to keep you nice and cool. Reviewers say it's the next best thing to a Casper mattress itself, and boy, is it a whole lot more affordable.
- Material: Polyurethane foam
- Height: 3 inches
- Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Cali King
Glowing customer review: "Bought this for my dorm, and it was fantastic! Transformed the old plastic mattress into one of the most comfy beds. All my friends were commenting on the level of comfort. 1000% recommend."
Pros
- Relieves pressure points to reduce shoulder, hip and back pain
- Reviewers say it's a great value for the price
Cons
- Not machine-washable
Say bye-bye to shoulder, hip, and back pain and hello to some much-needed shut-eye—this reviewer-loved Tuft & Needle mattress topper is made from plush, responsive foam that offers the right balance of softness and support. It's less bulky than a memory foam topper, yet it's thick enough to support side sleepers. Plus, it has a grippy underside to help keep it from slipping around under a fitted sheet. The affordable price point is simply an added bonus.
- Material: Foam
- Height: 2 inches
- Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
Glowing customer review: "I am a side and stomach sleeper, and this topper adds a layer of soft comfort for any sleep position. I wake up with no stiffness in my shoulders at all. It is remarkable that a two-inch foam topper has completely altered the level of comfort of my mattress... There is no sinking into the mattress, just perfect relaxing comfort."
Pros
- Helps alleviate pressure points for less aches and pains
- Mattress cover helps keep memory foam pad securely in place
Cons
- Some reviewers say it had a strong scent when they first unboxed it
You get the best of both worlds with Sleep Innovations' dual-layer memory foam mattress topper. The do-it-all mattress topper has over 22,000 five-star Amazon reviews, so it's clear that its quality and comfort are up to par with luxury brands.
It features two inches of pressure-relieving, responsive memory foam beneath a plush, fiber-fill mattress pad. Together, they do wonders to alleviate shoulder, hip, and back pain, providing the support of a foam mattress topper and the softness of a pillow-top mattress topper. Sleep Innovations offers the dual-layer design in three variations: cooling comfort, enhanced support, and extra plush.
- Material: Memory foam pad with polyester cover and fill
- Height: 4 inches
- Sizes: Twin, Full, Queen, King, Cali King
Glowing customer review: "I have a newer mattress that is not particularly comfortable for me. I was waking up with shoulder and hip pain and found myself avoiding even sleeping in my bed. In desperation, I ordered this, and my sleeping experience has improved 100%, and it was much cheaper than getting a new mattress."
Pros
- Feels super soft and fluffy
- Made with responsibly-sourced down and feathers
Cons
- Material isn't the best choice for hot sleepers
If your dream bed is akin to a giant pillow, this down mattress topper from Parachute is the perfect pick. Its dual-chamber design features a layer of fluffy down atop a layer of feather fill, all surrounded by a soft cotton sateen shell. Read: it makes your cheap mattress feel more like a five-star hotel bed. You'll rest even easier knowing the down used is a byproduct of the food industry and sourced from suppliers that meet the Responsible Down Standard.
Reviewers recommend giving your down mattress topper a quick fluff whenever you wash your sheets to keep it nice and plump. Its baffle box construction keeps the down and feather filling from getting lumpy, so a quick zhuzh is all it takes.
- Material: Feather and down filling, cotton shell
- Height: 3 inches
- Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Cali King
Glowing customer review: "Wow. No words for how amazing this topper is. Literally feels like you are sleeping on a cloud. I have never had a better night's sleep in my life."
There are a number of reasons why you might want to skip down: allergies, ethical reasons, higher prices, or perhaps just how hard it is to wash. Either way, there are plenty of down alternative mattress toppers to choose from. But it can be hard to decipher which ones actually feel like down.
According to Target reviewers, this Casaluna mattress pad feels just as soft and cozy as genuine down but only costs a fraction of the price. Reviewers also say it doesn't cause them to overheat the way down fill usually does. The quilted mattress pad is only 1.5 inches thick, so it'll add a nice bit of cushion to your mattress without totally changing the firmness level or making it hard to cover with a fitted sheet.
- Material: Cotton exterior with polyester filling
- Height: 1.5 inches
- Sizes: Full, Queen, King, Cali King
Glowing customer review: "We got a new mattress, and it was just a little too firm for me. I got this new mattress pad, and wow, just wow. It softens things up just enough. It's so nice to fall into bed on this fluffy pad. It also just a little bit taller so it helps keep the sheets on better. I would absolutely buy this again."
Pros
- Great for those who like a firm mattress
- Micro coils provide extra lumbar support
- Finished with an antimicrobial treatment
Cons
- Some reviewers say it sleeps hot
If your current mattress feels too soft for your liking, try a firm mattress topper like this Saatva number. While it can't miraculously fix your saggy old mattress, it can make a significant difference while you save up for a new one (and while you break said new one in).
Made with recycled steel micro-coils and gel-infused foam, it contours to your body for added support and pressure relief. Reviewers rave about its excellent lumbar support. As an added bonus, it's finished with a botanical antimicrobial treatment that inhibits the growth of bacteria, mold, and thus, should extend the life of your topper.
- Material: Organic cotton shell with recycled steel micro-coils and gel-infused foam interior
- Height: 3 inches
- Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Split King, Cali King
Glowing customer review: "Very supportive. Been having to sleep on a memory foam mattress that is way too soft and caused a bunch of pain. This topper helped support my body extremely well and I no longer feel like I am on the same mattress."
Pros
- Fair Trade certified
- Comes in multiple thicknesses and firmness levels
- More springy and responsive than traditional memory foam
Cons
- Some reviewers say it had a strong smell when they first unboxed it
Want your bed to feel S-O-F-T? Add this natural latex mattress topper to your Amazon cart. It's offered in a plethora of bed sizes and thicknesses, ensuring you find exactly what you're looking for. Those seeking something a little more supportive will be satisfied to hear it comes in medium-firm and firm options, too.
This topper is made from natural latex harvested from organically-grown rubber trees and comes with an optional 100% organic cotton cover. Latex is known to have a softer, springier feel than memory foam and traps less body heat, so it's a great choice for those seeking a memory foam alternative.
- Material: Latex
- Height: 1-3 inches
- Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Cali King
Glowing customer review: "I bought a new bed recently that was way too firm. I tried to break it in for several months but couldn't handle any more painful, sleepless nights. I figured a mattress topper would help, but I was hesitant to order one online because I'm super sensitive to smells and am an extremely hot sleeper. But the first night I slept on this mattress topper, I was beyond thrilled. I didn't notice any smells at all and I stayed cool throughout the night. Also, it was supportive without feeling like you were sinking."
Pros
- Redistributes body weight to take pressure off joints and pressure points
- Has elastic straps on the corners to keep it in place
- Offered in two firmness levels
Cons
- Some reviewers didn't find it cooling
Though it varies from person to person, most side sleepers find soft to medium-firm mattress toppers that are two or three inches thick to be the most comfortable. Material preferences vary, too, but most enjoy the weight distribution, pressure relief, and spinal alignment that memory foam and latex offer.
Side sleepers on social media swear by this surprisingly affordable Nolah mattress topper. It's made with the same material as the brand's best-selling AirFoam mattresses, and reviewers say it's the next best thing to replacing your mattress itself. Not only will it add extra cushion to your bed, but it'll help you wake up with far fewer aches and pains—and who couldn't benefit from that?
- Material: Foam
- Height: 2 inches
- Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Cali King
Glowing customer review: "The Nolah mattress topper has improved my sleep! Noticeable difference in my back and hip pressure points which had me waking up very achy. Even though my mattress is only 4 years old, it helped out with so much more support. I will not hesitate to recommend to anyone that is having pressure point issues. So glad I chose this."
Pros
- Doubles as a mattress topper and mattress protector
- Has a waterproof barrier at the bottom
- Reviewers say the microgel filling doesn't cause you to overheat
Cons
- Not as thick or cushiony as a memory foam mattress topper
This Brooklinen mattress topper adds all the luxurious softness of genuine down but doesn't trap nearly as much body heat. Plus, it has a waterproof barrier at the bottom to protect your mattress from stains and spills sans mattress protector. Come cleaning time, all you've got to do is toss it in the washing machine, and voila!
The mattress topper's quilted design ensures the plush microgel filling stays evenly distributed, no matter how much you toss and turn. Its stretchy cotton skirt fits mattresses up to 18 inches thick, helping keep the material from bunching up beneath you. One night's sleep on this baby, and you'll be kicking yourself that you didn't buy it sooner.
- Material: Cotton shell with microgel filling
- Height: 2 inches
- Sizes: Full, Queen, King, Cali King
Glowing customer review: "A year later we still love this mattress topper. It adds some extra cushion to our bed without adding warmth - super important for us during the summer!"
Pros
- Certified climate neutral
- Comes with a risk-free 100 night trial
- Will keep you warm in the winter
Cons
- Not machine-washable
- Not the best material for hot sleepers and peak summer months
Is a wool mattress topper the most affordable option? No. Is it the best for hot summer weather? No. But when it comes time to get cozy, is it the most comfortable, plush little slice of heaven you'll ever sleep on? Abso-freaking-lutely.
If you're going to splurge on a wool mattress topper, it's worth really splurging to ensure you're getting something made with high-quality, responsibly-sourced wool. This top-rated Avocado mattress topper is made with a GOTS-certified organic cotton shell and ethically sourced alpaca wool, which is softer and more insulative than traditional sheep's wool. It's offered in medium-firm and plush versions to ensure everyone gets just the right amount of pillowy-soft cushion.
- Material: GOTS-certified organic cotton shell with alpaca wool filling
- Height: 2 inches
- Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Cali King
Glowing customer review: "Love my new alpaca wool mattress topper! As a side sleeper, It truly seems to make a difference in the quality of my sleep. I stay cool and my shoulders don’t ache."
Do mattress toppers make a big difference?
Short answer: YES!
Long answer: While even the best mattress topper can't work miracles on a crappy mattress, it can make your sleeping arrangements significantly more comfortable, improve your sleep quality, and help reduce neck, shoulder, back, and hip pain. They're particularly great for college dorm rooms where you have no control over the quality of your mattress itself. Plus, a new mattress topper costs waaaay less than a new mattress, making them a great short-term solution. If you're not ready to shell out for a fancy memory foam mattress, a memory foam topper is the next best thing.
What is the difference between a mattress pad, a mattress topper, and a mattress protector?
Understanding the difference between a mattress pad, a mattress topper and a mattress protector is essential before you make a purchase. Though these terms are often used interchangeably, there are key differences between them. Here's a quick definition of each to help you out:
Mattress Topper
A mattress topper's primary purpose is to make your bed more comfortable. They're typically thicker than mattress pads and protectors (most are between 2-4 inches) and are made from softer, more cushiony materials so you can sink right in.
Mattress Pad
Mattress pads are slightly thinner than mattress toppers. While they will add a little extra softness and cushion to your bed, they won't make as much of a difference as a true mattress topper. What they will do is protect your bed from stains, spills, sweat, bodily fluids, and the like. And, unlike most mattress toppers, most mattress pads are machine-washable.
Mattress Protector
A mattress protector is exactly what it sounds like, a mattress cover designed to protect your bed from dirt, allergens, spills, stains, mold, mildew, and other gross stuff. Just as importantly, they can protect you from bed bugs (ewww) and dust mites (also ewww). But, unlike mattress pads and toppers, a mattress protector won't change the firmness or feel of your bed.
How to choose a mattress topper:
Material
First and foremost, you'll need to select a mattress topper material. While memory foam is a popular choice, it's certainly not the only one. Here's how different materials stack up:
- Memory foam: There are many reasons why memory foam is popular for mattresses and mattress toppers. The firm, responsive polyurethane foam evenly distributes weight, helping minimize pressure points that lead to hip and shoulder pain. However, its dense texture has a tendency to trap heat, so it's not always the best choice for hot sleepers.
- Latex: Typically, latex foam feels firmer, bouncier, and more responsive than memory foam. It's a great choice for those who don't like sinking into a thick memory foam or down mattress topper.
- Down: For a truly cloud-like bed, try a down mattress topper—but be sure to double-check that the product you're purchasing was made using responsibly-sourced down and feathers. The material is known for being insulating, so it's not the best choice for hot sleepers or those who live in hot climates.
- Cotton: Thinner mattress pads and down-alternative mattress toppers are often filled with cotton, which is naturally moisture-wicking and temperature-regulating. Unlike memory foam or latex, most cotton mattress toppers are fully machine-washable.
- Wool: Nothing feels quite as warm and cozy as a wool mattress topper. It's another material that's known to trap heat, so it's not the best option for hot summer months—but, it'll keep you super warm in the winter.
- Egg crate foam: If a foam mattress topper is described as "egg crate foam," it means it has a convoluted surface similar to that of (surprise, surprise) an egg crate. While the bumpy texture makes the mattress topper more breathable, it doesn't have the smooth, sink-right-in feel of flat foam.
Firmness
Similar to mattresses themselves, mattress toppers come in numerous firmness levels. While a thick foam pad is great for someone who prefers a soft, pillowy bed, it may not have enough support for those who prefer a firmer mattress. Reading customer reviews from those with similar sleep habits to your own is a great way to gauge the actual firmness level of a product.
Thickness
How thick should your mattress topper be? It depends on the material—and on how much support and softness you're looking for. If you're looking for just a little added cushion, a 1- or 2-inch topper should do the trick, but you'll need something 3 to 4 inches thick for a seriously cloud-like feel.
Anti-slip design features
If you're someone who tosses and turns throughout the night, keep an eye out for design features that'll help keep your mattress topper securely in place, such as a grippy, anti-slip texture or elastic bands at each corner.
Machine-washable cover
A machine-washable cover makes it a whole lot easier to keep your mattress topper looking, feeling, and smelling fresh. If your mattress topper of choice doesn't come with a removable cover, you'll want to cover it with a mattress protector that blocks sweat, spills, and body fluids.
Why trust Cosmo?
Sarah Maberry is a commerce writer at Hearst Magazines, where she regularly researches and writes about home products, ranging from Amazon home decor to TikTok viral products. Her picks for the best mattress toppers were based on market research, customer reviews, and editor recommendations, as well as her personal experience as a hot sleeper who tosses and turns.
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