Mattress Toppers

Do Mattress Toppers Make a Difference?

After a few years, you may notice your mattress isn’t quite as comfortable or supportive as before. It’s not completely worn out, but you are missing the days when jumping into bed felt like jumping onto a cloud. That is where a mattress topper comes in. These add ons make your mattress feel brand new, improving comfortability and expanding its lifespan for a much lower cost than a new mattress. And the benefits don’t stop there, here are some additional pros of investing in a quality mattress topper.

• Cleanliness: While you sleep you shed hair, skin and may get a little sweaty. Your fitted sheet protects your mattress from a lot of this debris, but some still gets through and overtime builds up. A topper helps prevent a lot of this debris from permeating your mattress, keeping it cleaner for longer. After all, it’s much easier and cheaper to replace a mattress topper than a whole mattress!
• Temperature regulation: There’s nothing worse than overheating in your sleep. If you get too hot even with the window open, a mattress topper with temperature regulation qualities will help keep you cool. This is also a great add on during the summer months, especially during a heatwave.
• Support and pain relief: Mattress toppers that support your spinal alignment and provide pressure relief will help alleviate back pain. This is an excellent option if your mattress isn’t providing the support you need.

Different Types of Mattress Toppers

• Memory Foam - Arguably the most common mattress topper, this popular choice is known for contouring the body to provide exceptional comfort and pain relief. The mattress team at Wowcher recommends this type of topper for those experiencing back pain, or those who want additional cushioning.
• Orthopaedic - Another foam option, orthopaedic mattress toppers are firmer than standard memory foam toppers. This structured support is great for seniors, people with joint or back pain, or athletes.
• Cooling Gel - Designed with a layer of gel, these toppers keep you cool throughout the night by absorbing your body heat. A top choice for those seeking immediate cooling effects.
• Cotton - Lightweight and breathable, this plant-based, natural material is easy to wash and helps regulate temperatures. Perfect if you don’t have any particular support needs and want a comfortable night's sleep.
• Wool - Another natural choice, toppers made of wool are durable and soft. The wool makes them thick and deep, creating that sinking feeling many desire. Surprisingly, wool toppers are great year round - they absorb heat in summer and preserve it in winter.
• Latex - Latex mattress toppers offer the latest temperature regulation technology. These toppers create airflow rather than absorbing heat like cooling gel. This provides consistent heat control throughout the night.
• Bamboo - Bamboo stands out for its dust mite, mold and mildew resistance qualities, as well as its softness. If this is a concern for you, bamboo is the natural fibre to choose.
• Microfibre - Easy to care for and machine washable, microfibre mattress toppers are made from a soft and smooth synthetic material. Our beds and mattress team recommends microfibre for those with allergies.
• Feather and Down - Luxuriously soft, feather and down toppers are known for their high quality and warmth. Additionally, they are a great natural option for moisture absorption.

How to Choose a Mattress Topper

Shopping for a mattress topper can be very overwhelming. With so many options and materials available it is difficult to know what to pick. Here are some things to consider to help you make a confident choice!

1. Sleep Style
Sleeping like a starfish or in the fetal position isn’t just a personal quirk, it changes the type of support you need throughout the night. This is due to the different pressures each position places on the body. A side sleeper will typically need a thicker mattress topper, whereas stomach sleepers are better supported by a firmer mattress. So make sure to take this into consideration when choosing your mattress topper.

2. Sleep Concerns
Suffering from back and joint pain? Keep this in the forefront of your mind when looking for a mattress topper. Try to avoid softer choices and keep your eye out for orthopaedic and firmer builds.

3. Size
Most mattress toppers come in the standard UK bed sizes, but it is always important to check just in case (especially if you’re lucky enough to be sleeping on a super king). For larger beds, think about how the mattress topper is secured to the bed for easy installation. Avoid options without straps or another way to keep the topper secure.

4. Price
Whenever shopping for something new, it’s important to set yourself a clear budget. This will help you eliminate options outside of your price point. Feather and down toppers are usually expensive, whereas microfibre is on the affordable side.

5. Care and Maintenance
Not all mattress toppers are machine washable or easy to care for. Consider whether you need to wash your topper often and what cleaning facilities are available to you before purchasing.
If you’re still struggling to make a decision, make sure to buy a mattress topper with a satisfaction guarantee. This will allow you to return the topper if you aren’t completely satisfied - pretty dreamy if you ask us!

Our Best Mattress Toppers

With the help of our Beds and Mattress team, as well as customer reviews, we have picked out our best mattress toppers below to help you quickly find your perfect fit.

Best for back pain or hip pain

Brightr Aurora 2-in-1 Memory Foam Mattress Topper
Containing a memory foam core composed of two layers and WaveComfort technology, this topper provides the ultimate support. Sleep peacefully as it massages and supports circulation, alongside relieving hip, back and shoulder pressure. Flippable, this topper has a firm and softer side allowing you to swap as needed. Fantastic for instant support!

Best memory foam and cooling topper

Emma Premium ThermoSync Topper
With a depth of 9cm, or 3.4 inches, this topper contains Emma’s ThermoSync foam. It is constructed with two layers of medium firm foam including HRX comfort foam, optimised for pressure relief. The result is a topper which contours to the shape of your body and relieves pain from key areas (with the added bonus of effective temperature regulation).

Best budget topper

Emma Flip Topper
Breathable and containing two layers of foam, this budget friendly mattress topper offers ultimate comfort at the ultimate price. The washable cover and flippable nature of this topper expands its lifespan, saving you money for longer.

FAQs

How many inches of mattress topper is best?

This comes down to personal preference and desired feel, however generally 3-4 inches is considered the best depth. As mattress toppers are usually bought to prolong the life of older mattresses, a thicker depth will create a plusher feel and last longer. But, if you are looking for a thinner mattress topper, 2 inches is recommended.

Do you put a fitted sheet over a mattress topper?

Yes, it is advised to put a fitted sheet on your mattress topper. A fitted sheet will keep your topper clean from debris such as hair, skin and sweat. It is also more comfortable as the surface of a topper is not designed to be slept on directly.

How often should you change your mattress topper?

Typically a mattress topper will last from 3 to 5 years depending on how you care for it. Factors such as using a fitted sheet, washing it correctly and frequency of use will impact longevity. Signs your topper needs replacing include dents, dips, loss of shape such as sagging, and the presence of a smell.

Can you wash a mattress topper?

You can wash your topper! But, make sure to check the care instructions from the manufacturer. Some mattress toppers can be machine washed, such as cotton or microfibre. Others will need spot cleaning, like memory foam or will have a removable cover you can wash.