Finding the perfect mattress topper can be challenging, especially if you’re trying to be eco-friendly and keep harmful chemicals out of your bedroom.
There's a lot to consider: different materials, firmness levels, features, care, and cleaning - not to mention the cost.
In this article, I’ll call upon my years of experience testing sleep products to show you how to choose a mattress topper that is made with sustainable materials and offers just the right amount of support and comfort.
You can then check out my organic mattress topper reviews, armed with all the knowledge you need to find the perfect option, whatever your budget.
Contents
One of the key considerations when shopping for a mattress topper is the materials it’s made from.
If you have the budget, I strongly recommend you invest in a high-quality mattress topper made from organic materials. This is healthier for you, far better for the environment, and will extend the life of your existing mattress, or protect a brand-new mattress.
It makes no sense to introduce chemicals into your room by using a synthetic topper, just to save a few bucks. So where possible, keep it organic all the way for extra peace of mind.
I'll now run through some of the more commonly used mattress topper materials in detail, so you can see the pros and cons of each.
Memory foam is a type of polyurethane foam that has been popularized in recent years as it provides exceptional comfort and support.
It contours to your body, allowing for pressure point relief.
A memory foam mattress topper is great if you need additional cushioning or want to add extra softness to your bed without sacrificing support.
However, some memory foams (especially those at the cheaper end of the market) can contain toxic chemicals, and off-gassing becomes an issue.
They can also hold body heat and are not ideal for hot sleepers. However, some memory foam contains cooling gels to help dissipate body heat.
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Other foam toppers (such as egg-crate foam, convoluted foam, and polyfoam) have similar properties to memory foam toppers.
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Latex toppers provide a similar amount of contouring as memory foam but also have an added bounce that helps keep you cool throughout the night by generating increased airflow.
Latex is also more durable than most materials and resistant to allergens, bacteria, and dust mites.
Natural latex is a good non-toxic alternative to memory foam. To ensure you’re getting the purest form of latex, look for latex toppers certified by the Global Organic Latex Standard.
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Down and feathers are an excellent choice for those who want to add an extra layer of loft and comfort to their bed.
They’re usually combined with cotton or synthetic fabric but can be used alone too.
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For those who are vegan or have allergies, there are synthetic down/feather alternatives available such as polyester fiber fillers, bamboo fibers, cotton batting and kapok.
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Microfiber and cotton mattress toppers are economical for those on a budget. They’re also the lightest type of mattress topper, making them easy to move and transport.
While they don’t have the same contouring or durability as other materials, they can still provide good comfort if you like a softer sleep surface.
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Wool is a natural material that is breathable, temperature-regulating, and hypoallergenic, making it perfect for hot sleepers with allergies.
It’s also incredibly soft and can provide extra cushioning and comfort for your bed.
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Most mattress toppers are between 1” and 4” thick. Make sure to choose one designed with the correct thickness and firmness. Too thick or too thin, and it might not provide the comfort you need.
Memory foam toppers, in particular, often have a density rating listed on them. This rating is measured in lbs/ft³ (or kg/m3 in some countries).
There are three standard ranges:
Look for a mattress topper with a reasonable warranty length to ensure that it’s built to last.
When looking for a mattress topper, make sure to take your sleeping position into account so you can get the most out of it:
Latex and foam mattress toppers are spot clean only (although they may have a removable cover you can machine wash.
Some other mattress toppers (cotton batting, wool, down, etc.) might be dry clean only or machine washable. However, always check the care label or manufacturer’s website for clarity.
Some mattress topper companies offer sleep trials. This is a great way to test the product at home for a reasonable time before deciding if you want to keep it.
Some of the leading sleep trials include:
Sleep trial lengths (and terms of the return) vary from company to company (and even product to product) and are often subject to change.
Always double-check before ordering, or contact me, and I’ll check for you.
Most good quality mattress toppers come with straps to secure them to the mattress and stop it from moving around.
These are usually on each corner and tucked under the corners of the mattress.
Most mattress topper sizes mirror the standard mattress sizes:
Motion isolation is the ability of a mattress or mattress topper to absorb movement and stop it from transferring across the bed.
This is especially important for those who share a bed, as it reduces the disruption caused by a restless sleeper next to you.
Make sure you choose a mattress topper with good motion isolation properties if you want the best night’s sleep.
The price of a mattress topper can vary depending on the size, quality, the materials it is made from, the brand, and any organic or nontoxic certifications it carries.
As a general guide, you can expect to spend:
Yes, it is well worth spending a little extra to buy a non-toxic mattress topper. You definitely get what you pay for.
Cheap mattress toppers degrade far more quickly and soon need to be replaced. Buying cheap is a false economy when you consider the cost over the lifetime of the product.
More important is the fact that the synthetic chemicals and flame retardants contained in petroleum-based memory foam emit harmful VOCs that can cause serious health implications. You can't put a price on your family's health.
If your need isn't urgent, you can always wait for seasonal deals and discounts and get a coupon code to bring the price down.
On average you should replace your mattress topper every 4 to 7 years. Factors that influence the longevity of a topper include the type and quality of materials it is made from, and how well it has been cared for.
For example, organic latex mattress toppers are more durable and last longer than synthetic memory foam alternatives. If you've cleaned your topper regularly and used a mattress protector to keep stains and spills away, this will also help to prolong its life.
That depends on your needs. Mattress toppers go on top of the mattress and provide extra cushioning and support, but many people use some form of organic bed protector as well:
A mattress topper can help relieve back pain by providing extra cushioning and support. Studies show you should look for one that’s medium to firm, depending on your sleeping position and preference.
Yes, a mattress topper can make a big difference in comfort and support. It can instantly upgrade your old mattress and help you sleep more comfortably.
Look for one suitable for your sleeping position and the type of mattress you have so it fits properly and provides maximum cushioning and support.
Hotel beds are usually outfitted with soft mattresses and the best mattress toppers for extra cushioning. This ensures that guests have a comfortable night’s sleep and wake up feeling refreshed.
There are numerous telltale signs that your mattress topper is too soft, such as:
Whether you choose a firm natural latex topper or a cooling mattress topper made from synthetic materials, there are many factors to consider when choosing the best mattress topper for your specific needs.
Your budget and personal preferences should dictate which type of material you choose, as well as the size and thickness of the mattress topper.
Ensure you check the company’s sleep trial length and return policy before purchasing.
If off-gassing is an issue you’d rather avoid, I’d recommend looking for mattress toppers made from natural and organic materials.
By bearing all these factors in mind, you’ll be well on your way to selecting the right mattress topper for a great night’s sleep.
Sweet dreams!
Do you use mattress toppers? Is a topper made from memory foam and latex your sleep surface of choice? Or do you prefer something more natural, like organic cotton and wool?
Do you like a thick topper? Or maybe your current mattress is so comfy it doesn’t need a topper? Drop me a line and let me know.
