Mattress Topper Buying Guide
Is your current mattress feeling a little lifeless? A mattress topper could give it the transformation it needs! But where do you start when looking for a mattress topper? What are the different types available, and what are the benefits?
Our mattress topper guide tells you everything you need to know.
What is a mattress topper?
A mattress topper is an extra layer you can add to your mattress to give it a little more cushioning or support, while also giving your mattress an extra level of protection. Mattress toppers are available in a range of different sizes and styles, depending on your needs.
What does a mattress topper do?
A mattress topper primarily provides extra support and comfort for the sleeper, by adding a layer of cushioning. It can also help adapt your mattress to your sleeping preferences. If you're struggling with a firm mattress, for example, a soft mattress topper can provide the best of both worlds.
As well as additional comfort for you, a mattress topper can help extend the lifespan of your mattress. The extra layer protects your mattress from general wear and tear, as well as stains from spills or accidents. Plus, it's much easier to wash most mattress toppers than it is to clean a mattress, so you can enjoy a fresh, brand-new feeling mattress for even longer.
The benefits of mattress toppers
There are a whole host of benefits that come with a mattress topper. Here are just a few…
Adds extra comfort
One of the main benefits of a mattress topper is the comfort it adds. If you find your mattress isn't as comfortable as it could be, the extra cushioned layer provided by a mattress topper can make all the difference.
Increase the longevity of your mattress
With a mattress topper, less pressure is put directly onto your mattress, meaning you could actually increase its lifespan.
Protects your mattress
The extra layer provided by a mattress topper protects your mattress. From crumbs and spills to accidents, a mattress topper can help reduce dirt and overall wear and tear to your mattress, helping you enjoy a fresh feeling mattress.
Adjust the support of your mattress
If your current mattress is too soft or too firm, a mattress topper can help adjust the level of support. A soft mattress topper can give you an extra layer of cushioning, while a firm or memory foam mattress topper can give you additional support.
What's the difference between mattress toppers and protectors?
Mattress toppers and mattress protectors are both additional layers you can add to a mattress, however, a mattress protectors' sole purpose is to protect the mattress rather than offer additional comfort. Mattress protectors are often waterproof, giving a complete barrier against spills or accidents, while mattress toppers have soft, cushioned fillings.
How to choose a mattress topper
If you're looking for a mattress topper, there are a few different options to choose from. Think about what you're looking for with your mattress topper; do you want to make a firm mattress softer? In this case, a simple padded mattress topper is ideal. Perhaps you're looking to make your bed firmer? If so, a firm memory firm mattress topper is the best choice.
What is the best mattress topper for back pain?
If you're experiencing back pain during the night, it could be that your current mattress is too soft and isn't giving the support you need. If your mattress isn't cutting it but isn't due to be replaced just yet, a mattress topper can help out.
For those who experience back pain, we'd recommend a firm, memory foam mattress topper, as it will provide the same benefits as a memory foam mattress. A memory foam mattress topper will mould to the shape of your body, helping to prevent overnight aches and pains.
What mattress topper is best for hip pain?
Again, if you're experiencing hip pain during or after sleeping, it's likely that your current mattress is sagging or too soft. A firm memory foam mattress topper can give a little extra support, easing aches that come from a mattress that's too soft.
What size mattress topper do I need?
You should match your mattress topper to the size of your mattress, so a single mattress topper for a single bed, a double mattress topper for a double bed, and so on.
We're sometimes asked whether a double mattress topper will fit a small double bed. As a small double bed is slightly narrower than a standard double, a double mattress topper will be too big. If you're a restless sleeper, this could mean it moves or comes off during the night. It may also hang over the edge of the mattress, increasing the risk of falls.
Smaller mattress toppers may fit safely over a larger mattress, leaving small gaps around the edges. Still, for the best results, we'd always recommend matching your topper to your mattress size exactly.
Are mattress toppers washable?
Most mattress toppers are washable - another great perk of having one! Some mattress toppers can be completely washed; just throw them into the machine with the rest of your bedding.
Others, including memory foam mattress toppers, come with a detachable cover that can be washed separately, so always double check the specific wash instructions for the mattress topper you choose.
Can I put a topper on my memory foam mattress?
Mattress toppers can be used on any mattress, so yes, they can definitely be used on a memory foam mattress if you're wanting to adjust its firmness. As most memory foam mattresses are already relatively firm, a mattress topper is usually used to add a softer layer.
A mattress topper can also be used to reduce the 'sinking' feeling of a memory foam mattress if you're finding you don't enjoy the feeling. Be careful with mattress toppers that are too thick, though - they may reduce the responsiveness of your memory foam mattress, taking away its benefits!
Will mattress toppers help an old mattress?
A new mattress topper can breathe new life into an old mattress, but it can't completely fix problems with an older mattress.
Mattresses should be replaced every 6-8 years - if your mattress is nearing the end of its lifespan, is sagging, or is damaged, a mattress topper may not be able to restore it to its former glory. If your current mattress is affecting your sleep or overall health, we'd always recommend replacing it. Our mattress collection is packed full of options to suit any room size or sleeping preference.
How often should you replace your mattress topper?
The lifespan of a mattress topper is slightly less than the lifespan of a mattress, but it should last from 3-5 years on average - or longer if used less frequently.
A few things contribute to how long a mattress topper lasts, including how well it's looked after, how high quality it is, how often it's used, and the weight it takes. Mattress toppers and topper covers should also be regularly washed to ensure they're clean and hygienic.
If you're looking to replace your mattress topper, you're in the right place. At Happy Beds, we have a great selection of mattress toppers, including memory foam options for the ultimate in comfort.