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Best King Size Mattress Toppers
A king size mattress may be more comfortable for couples because it gives them extra room to spread out. But while sleepers may have the space they need to rest in their preferred position without disturbing their partners, that doesn’t mean the mattress itself will feel ideal to them.
When a mattress is too soft or too firm, a topper is a convenient solution. Most toppers are between 1 and 4 inches thick, with thicker options affecting the feel of the sleep surface to a greater extent than thinner models. This type of sleep accessory acts as an extra layer that sits on top of the mattress to change its feel, without the expense and hassle of buying a new mattress. Toppers can also help extend the life expectancy of a mattress by absorbing much of the surface-level wear and tear.
We’ll highlight our favorite picks for king size mattress toppers and explain what makes them stand out. We’ll also detail other factors to consider before selecting a topper for your bed.
The Best King Mattress Toppers
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Best Overall
Helix GlacioTex Premium Mattress Topper – Luxury Plush
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Most Comfortable
Silk & Snow Organic Mattress Topper
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Best Value
Puffy Deluxe Mattress Topper
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Best for Back Pain
Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Adapt Topper
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Best for Side Sleepers
Nolah Mattress Topper
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Best Pressure Relief
Brooklyn Bedding Microcoil Mattress Topper
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Best Luxury
PlushBeds Quilted Organic Latex Topper
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Best for Couples
Saatva Graphite Memory Foam Mattress Topper
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Best Temperature Regulating
Birch Organic Mattress Topper
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Best for Spinal Alignment
ViscoSoft Select High Density Mattress Topper
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In-Depth Reviews
Best Overall
Helix GlacioTex Premium Mattress Topper – Luxury Plush
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If contouring is a priority in your search for a topper, the Helix GlacioTex Premium Mattress Topper is a great candidate. The foam composition offers excellent cushioning, while the thin coil layer provides gentle pushback and prevents uncomfortable sinkage.
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Pros
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Dual foam layers excel at motion isolation and pressure relief
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Thin layer of microcoils produces slight bounce
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Thick design enables topper to significantly change how your bed surface feels
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Cons
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Stomach sleepers over 230 pounds may prefer a firmer topper
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Foam is prone to strong off-gassing odor for the first few nights
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Material
1.5″ polyfoam, .75″ microcoils, 1.5″ high-density polyfoam
Firmness
Medium Soft (4)
The Helix GlacioTex Premium Mattress Topper – Luxury Plush has a unique design that combines the cradling of foam with the responsiveness of coils. The result is a topper that should appeal to fans of foam while offering a hint of pushback that you won’t find in conventional foam models.
The topper features two layers of foam with a thin microcoil layer sandwiched in between. The top foam layer offers excellent motion isolation and strong cushioning, which helps ease pressure off sensitive joints, while the coils give the surface a slightly buoyant feel that keeps the body from sinking too deep. The bottom foam layer is denser than the top layer, so you won’t feel too hugged by the topper despite its thick profile and mostly foam composition. With its 3.75-inch profile, this topper may drastically adjust the feel of your bed.
Side sleepers on our test team gave the Helix GlacioTex Premium Mattress Topper – Luxury Plush high marks, due in large part to strong pressure relief in the shoulders and hips. Back sleepers up to 230 pounds and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds enjoyed the even balance of support and cushioning. Given the wide array of sleepers this topper appeals to, it’s a great fit for co-sleepers who have differing preferences when it comes to sleep surfaces.
Helix offers a 100-night sleep trial so that you can test the topper in your own bed. Shipping is free to all 50 states and you’ll also receive a one-year warranty.
Most Comfortable
Silk & Snow Organic Mattress Topper
Use this SleepFoundation.org link for the most current discount on Silk & Snow mattress toppers
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The all-latex design of the Silk & Snow Organic Mattress Topper is great for sleepers who enjoy gentle contouring but still need a lot of support. With two firmness options to choose from, you can pick the model that works best for your sleep position and body type.
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Pros
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Latex design balances contouring and support
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Two firmness options are available
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GOLS organic certification
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Cons
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Not suitable for sleepers with a latex allergy
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Noticeable motion transfer due to responsive surface
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Material
2″ GOLS-certified organic Dunlop latex
Firmness
Medium (5), Firm (7)
The Silk & Snow Organic Mattress Topper is a latex topper that offers an even balance of cushioning and support. It’s a good fit for side sleepers seeking a topper that cradles the shoulders and hips while supporting the lower back area.
The topper measures 2 inches thick and is composed of GOLS-certified organic Dunlop latex encased in a GOTS-certified organic cotton cover. Shoppers can pick between two firmness options, medium (5) and firm (7). The medium feel offers closer contouring and excels at pressure relief, while the firm is better suited for those who need stronger support. Regardless of the firmness level you choose, the latex has a bouncy feel that moderately cushions your body.
Between the two firmness options, most sleepers should find a topper that suits their needs. Side sleepers may prefer the medium topper, since the firmer option may cause excessive pressure buildup in the shoulders and hips, while back and stomach sleepers might gravitate toward the firm option. Hot sleepers will sleep comfortably on this topper, due to the natural breathability of latex.
Silk & Snow offers free shipping to locations in the contiguous U.S. and all Canadian provinces. The topper comes with a 100-night sleep trial as well as a 3-year warranty for the latex component and 1-year warranty for the cover.
The Puffy Deluxe Mattress Topper has a fairly thick profile that offers excellent cushioning for your body. It also has a relatively approachable price-point compared to other foam toppers with this thickness.
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Pros
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Thick foam design offers strong contouring
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Foam reduces motion transfer across the surface
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Two firmness options
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Cons
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Foam may trap excessive amount of heat for some sleepers
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Noticeable off-gassing odor at first
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Material
2.5″ memory foam
Firmness
Soft (3), Firm (7)
A high-quality memory foam topper can be a worthwhile investment if your uneven mattress causes nightly aches and pains — but many of these models are on the expensive side. The Puffy Deluxe Mattress Topper is a notable exception. Crafted from 2.5 inches of solid memory foam, the topper is thick enough to improve the feel of a mattress with light to moderate wear and tear, but a reasonable price-point and free shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. make it a solid option for shoppers with limited budgets.
The topper is available in two firmness levels. Those who want close contouring should opt for the soft (3) feel. Our testing shows this design is most comfortable for side and back sleepers weighing less than 130 pounds. If you need more support from your sleep surface, the firm (7) feel is a better bet. This design provides light cushioning and sturdy reinforcement for back and stomach sleepers weighing at least 130 pounds.
All versions of the topper are encased in covers made from a blend of polyester and rayon derived from bamboo. The latter material is highly breathable and has moisture-wicking properties to keep you dry at night. The cover features an elasticated border with 15-inch corner pockets, allowing you to secure the topper to your mattress without much fuss. The base has a grooved surface intended to create traction and prevent the topper from slipping and sliding when you change positions or toss and turn.
The cover can be removed and machine washed whenever a cleaning is needed. Puffy allows you to test the topper for up to 101 nights before deciding whether to return it or keep it. If you decide on the latter, you’ll receive a lifetime warranty covering structural defects for as long as you retain original ownership. Shipping is free to all 50 states.
Tempur-Pedic is known for its adaptive foam, so it’s no surprise that the TEMPUR-Topper offers strong pressure relief — but without sacrificing too much support for the lower back. We recommend it especially for side and back sleepers, given the medium firmness level.
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Pros
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Adaptive TEMPUR foam provides excellent cushioning
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Thick profile offers substantial change to mattress surface
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Machine-washable cover
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Cons
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High potential for heat retention
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Topper is not eligible for returns
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Material
3″ TEMPUR Memory Foam
Firmness
Medium (5)
People who experience pressure point discomfort can often benefit from adding a contouring topper to their current mattress. The TEMPUR-Topper Supreme from Tempur-Pedic is a 3-inch memory foam topper that provides substantial cushioning. The TEMPUR foam material compresses under your body weight, contouring closely to its shape. This model’s medium feel is best suited to side and back sleepers, as it may sink too deeply for stomach sleepers.
This topper is also an excellent pick for couples, especially those who toss and turn. When placed on top of your existing mattress, the memory foam works to isolate any motion you produce, stopping disturbances from reaching your partner’s side of the bed. In addition to movement, memory foam also absorbs heat. However, adding this topper is unlikely to significantly change your mattress’ overall temperature regulation.
Each topper comes with a removable and washable cover that helps protect the memory foam. Our in-house testing found that this model is likely to last, though it’s also covered by a 10-year warranty. Tempur-Pedic ships its TEMPUR-Topper Supreme for free to customers in the contiguous U.S.
Best for Side Sleepers
Nolah Mattress Topper
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The Nolah Mattress Topper is a great candidate for side sleepers who need gentle cradling but don’t want to sink too deep. The 2-inch profile cushions your shoulders and hips just enough to relieve pressure buildup without hugging your body too deeply.
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Pros
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Polyfoam design offers gentle cushioning
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Available in two firmness options
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2-inch profile moderately adjusts the feel of your mattress
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Cons
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Straps do not fit mattresses over 15 inches thick
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Hot sleepers may find the foam design too warm
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Material
2″ AirFoam polyfoam
Firmness
Medium Soft (4), Medium Firm (6)
As your mattress ages and becomes less adaptive, you may notice more pressure buildup in your shoulders, back, and hips while you sleep. The right topper can make a significant difference in your night-to-night comfort. Our team was particularly impressed with the Nolah Mattress Topper’s even contouring and weight distribution, two key characteristics for alleviating pressure. The topper contains AirFoam, a proprietary material that conforms to the body much like traditional memory foam without hugging too tightly or retaining an excessive amount of body heat.
You can choose from two firmness levels based on your sleep position and body type, as well as the wear and tear level of your mattress. The medium soft (4) design provides deep cushioning, making it best suited to side and back sleepers under 130 pounds. You can also use this topper on mattresses with moderate wear and tear. If you sleep on your back or stomach and weigh 130 to 230 pounds, the medium firm (6) model should provide adequate support. Side sleepers on our team over 230 pounds also enjoyed this design.
A cover made of breathable organic cotton encases the foam. Each corner features a thick elastic strap you can use to secure the topper to your sleep surface. This helps prevent shifting when you change sleep positions or toss and turn. The straps can be used with any mattress between 10 and 15 inches thick. If your mattress falls outside this range, you can still use the topper, albeit without the straps.
Nolah offers free ground shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. Your order includes a sleep trial that spans 30 nights in length. If you decide to keep the Nolah Mattress Topper after the trial period ends, you’ll receive a manufacturer’s warranty that covers various material and structural defects for up to 10 years.
Best Pressure Relief
Brooklyn Bedding Microcoil Mattress Topper
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Most toppers are made of latex or foam, but the Brooklyn Bedding Microcoil Mattress Topper stands out by pairing foam with a layer of microcoils. The result is a responsive topper that excels at pressure relief and cushioning.
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Pros
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Unique foam and coil design provides strong balance of cushioning and support
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Airflow through microcoils helps offset heat retention in the foam
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Thick profile is ideal for sleepers who prefer a drastic change to their mattress surface
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Cons
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Co-sleepers may notice some motion transfer due to coil design
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Above-average price-point
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Material
1.75″ polyfoam, 0.75″ pocketed microcoils, 1.5″ polyfoam
Firmness
Medium (5)
If your mattress is near the end of its lifespan and the sleep surface has developed deep impressions, you’re likely to experience sharp pressure points in your shoulders, lower back, and hips. Brooklyn Bedding’s Microcoil Mattress Topper is designed to deeply cushion and contour to your body, creating a cloud-like cradle that alleviates pressure buildup along the spine. The innovative construction includes a transitional layer composed of pocketed microcoils, so you shouldn’t sink too much.
The microcoils are sandwiched between a top layer of adaptive polyfoam and a bottom layer of dense base foam. These materials respond to your movement, creating a light bounce when you get into bed, but you and your partner shouldn’t notice excessive motion transfer. A generous 3.5-inch profile ensures your sleep surface will feel noticeably different with the topper in place. Another notable component is the cover, which is composed of GlacioTex fabric engineered to dissipate body heat and feel cool to the touch at all times.
After hands-on tests conducted in our lab, we’re recommending the topper to side and back sleepers up to 230 pounds. The medium (5) feel and sturdy support should promote even alignment and minimize pressure points for those who meet these body type and sleep position criteria. Stomach sleepers on our team weighing less than 130 pounds also felt comfortable on the topper. Performance testing highlights include consistent motion isolation and excellent temperature control. The topper does not have corner straps, so you’ll need to tuck it beneath your fitted sheet to prevent shifting during the night.
The Microcoil Mattress Topper is available in seven sizes, including a split California king for couples who use adjustable beds in this size. Although the sticker price is on the expensive side, Brooklyn Bedding offers free ground shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. Your order comes with a 30-night trial period. If you keep the topper after the trial ends, it’s backed by a three-year warranty against manufacturing defects.
Best Luxury
PlushBeds Quilted Organic Latex Topper
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The PlushBeds Quilted Organic Latex Topper has a luxuriously thick profile filled with high-end organic materials. The latex, wool, and cotton design justifies the above-average price-point.
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Pros
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Wool and latex design excels at cushioning without sacrificing support
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Available in medium or firm options
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4-inch profile is thicker than most toppers
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Cons
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Not a good fit for people with a latex allergy
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May feel too bouncy for sleepers who prefer the deep hug of foam
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Material
1″ GOTS-certified organic wool 3″ GOLS-certified organic latex
Firmness
Medium (5), Firm (7)
PlushBeds has earned a solid reputation for luxuriously crafted sleep products composed of natural materials. The Quilted Organic Latex Topper nicely exemplifies the brand’s commitment to quality and sustainable production. Measuring 4 inches thick, the topper contains a top layer of organic wool batting and a solid organic latex base. These materials are not only green but also naturally breathable and long-lasting. An organic cotton cover completes the eco-friendly design.
Since the topper has such a tall profile, it should improve the feel of any mattress — even one with deep impressions or indentations. You can choose from two firmness levels. The medium (5) feel provides gentle conforming and pressure relief, making it ideal for side and back sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds. The firm (7) feel offers less cushioning and more support, so sleepers weighing more than 230 pounds can lie comfortably without sinking too much around the midsection.
The topper is fairly hefty, coming in at 69 pounds for the king size model. This helps ensure it won’t slip around too much during the night. The latex has earned certification from the Global Organic Latex Standard, a leading worldwide authority for sustainably produced latex, while the wool and cotton hold certifications from the similarly structured Global Organic Textile Standard.
In addition to the standard king size, you can opt for a split king if you and your partner have different firmness preferences. The Quilted Organic Latex Topper’s expensive price-point reflects its high-quality design, but PlushBeds ships free of charge to customers in all 50 states. The company does not permit returns, so all sales are final, but you’ll receive a 5-year manufacturer’s warranty against structural defects with your purchase.
Best for Couples
Saatva Graphite Memory Foam Mattress Topper
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The Saatva Graphite Memory Foam Mattress Topper conforms closely to relieve pressure buildup in areas like your shoulders, hips, and spine. The nice, thick profile instantly transforms your sleep surface.
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Pros
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All-foam design excels at pressure relief
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3-inch profile offers drastic adjustment to mattress surface
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180-night sleep trial
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Cons
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High price-point compared to other foam toppers
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Foam is prone to heat retention
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Material
1″ graphite-infused memory foam, 2″ memory foam
Firmness
Medium Soft (4)
Saatva offers three mattress toppers to choose from, each one composed of a different material that caters to certain types of sleepers based on factors like body type and sleep position. With a 3-inch profile, the “Graphite” topper is the thickest option. This model contains a top layer of memory foam infused with cooling graphite, followed by a second layer of high-density foam that serves as a supportive base.
The feel is medium soft (4) and the foam layers conform very closely, so side and back sleepers weighing 230 pounds or less should find the topper particularly comfortable. This topper also earned high marks for temperature control, as the graphite infusion helps offset heat absorption from the foam. A breathable organic cotton cover encases the topper for added cooling. Elastic corner bands on the cover help keep the topper in place and prevent shifting when you change positions or toss and turn.
In addition to the Graphite Mattress Topper, Saatva offers latex and high-density polyfoam toppers. The company also provides free ground shipping anywhere in the contiguous U.S. You’ll receive a 180-night sleep trial and one-year warranty with your purchase.
Best Temperature Regulating
Birch Plush Organic Mattress Topper
Use this SleepFoundation.org link for the most current discount on Birch mattress toppers
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The Birch Organic Mattress Topper is made entirely of naturally cool materials, from the breathable latex to the cotton cover. It’s a great option for people who overheat easily and find heat-retaining foam toppers too uncomfortable to sleep on.
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Pros
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Latex gently cushions pressure points while still feeling supportive
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Wool, cotton, and latex layers all have natural cooling properties
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Cotton cover carries GOTS organic certification
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Pros
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Not suitable for anyone with a latex allergy
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May feel too bouncy for couples who prioritize strong motion isolation
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Material
3″ Talalay Latex
Firmness
Medium (5)
The Birch Organic Mattress Topper is constructed using eco-friendly materials. Solid Talalay latex forms the core for a balance of cushioning and responsiveness, which may be more comfortable for those who dislike the deep body hug of memory foam. The cover is composed of organic cotton, and two layers of organic wool batting provide extra padding beneath the surface. These components are not only sustainably sourced but also exceptionally durable, giving the topper a longer-than-average lifespan.
Measuring 3 inches thick with a medium (5) feel, the topper is best suited to older mattresses with deep impressions. The thick profile coupled with deep cushioning should improve the comfort level of your mattress by a significant extent. Hot sleepers can also benefit from using this topper. The latex is ventilated to promote steady air circulation throughout the interior, the organic cotton is very breathable, and the wool has moisture-wicking properties to keep you dry and comfortable on humid nights.
Customers in all 50 states qualify for free ground shipping when they order the Birch Organic Mattress Topper. Purchases also include a 100-night sleep trial, and those who choose to keep their topper receive a 10-year warranty against structural defects.
Best for Spinal Alignment
ViscoSoft Select High Density Mattress Topper
SF customers receive 25% off + free shipping
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The ViscoSoft Select High Density Mattress Topper has a memory foam design that offers pressure-relieving cushioning but is still firm enough to support your lumbar region. This helps maintain proper sleep posture, especially compared to some of the softer foam options we’ve come across.
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Pros
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Memory foam offers deep cushioning for sensitive pressure points
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Available in 3- or 4-inch profile
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Strong motion isolation due to all-foam design
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Cons
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Foam is prone to off-gassing odors in first few days
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Strong chance of heat retention
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Material
2-4″ gel-Infused memory foam
Firmness
Medium Firm (6)
Long-lasting toppers with approachable price-points can be hard to come by, but the ViscoSoft Select High Density Mattress Topper manages to be both durable and affordable. Composed of high-density memory foam – a material that often withstands sagging and shape loss over time – the topper offers a 3-inch profile and medium (5) feel with close body-contouring. This design should lead to major comfort adjustments if your mattress is exceptionally saggy or uneven.
The foam provides plush cushioning for the shoulders and hips, which can improve alignment issues and reduce pain for side sleepers, but the dense composition also allows the topper to support back sleepers without sinking around the midsection. Since the foam absorbs motion very well, the topper may also be a good option for couples – especially if their mattress has a responsive surface that disrupts sleep.
The topper is encased in a cover made of breathable rayon derived from bamboo, which has cooling properties and a luxuriously soft hand-feel. The cover’s anti-slip bottom creates traction on your mattress surface, and each corner has an elastic strap for securing the topper to your mattress. Thanks to these features, combination sleepers who constantly change positions and people who toss and turn won’t need to worry about the topper shifting or sliding too much.
In addition to standard models, customers can choose from two special versions of this topper. One design is infused with active charcoal intended to boost the topper’s breathability and also add an extra measure of antimicrobial protection. The other is treated with lavender, which many people use as a relaxant to promote sleepiness leading up to bedtime.
Ground shipping is free of charge for all orders in the contiguous U.S. ViscoSoft backs the Select High Density Mattress Topper with a 60-night trial and return period, as well as a 5-year warranty against material defects.
How to Choose a King Size Mattress Topper
Choosing the best king size topper requires careful consideration, especially if you are trying to please both yourself and your partner. Since a topper changes the feel of the sleep surface, you may want to put as much thought into finding your perfect match as you would when selecting a new mattress. Focusing on key factors related to construction, performance, and value can help you narrow down your search.
What to Consider When Purchasing a King Mattress Topper
There are plenty of criteria to take into account when purchasing a king mattress topper. Companies are in the business of selling, so some may try to appeal to the broadest customer base possible. Often, they make it seem like their toppers are comfortable for everyone regardless of their sleep position, weight group, existing mattress, and personal preferences. In reality, needs and preferences vary, so focusing on specific aspects may help you to find a topper that’s closer to your ideal match.
Price
King mattress toppers vary widely in price due to differences in materials, quality, and construction. Convoluted polyfoam toppers and fiber toppers are usually the most affordable, frequently costing less than $50. Memory foam, high-density polyfoam, feather, and latex options usually cost a bit more, ranging from around $100 to $700. Down toppers generally cost the most on average, starting at around $200 and reaching over $3,000.
Sleeping Position
A sleeper’s spinal alignment and the location and intensity of their pressure points depend largely on their sleep position. The right topper can make the sleep surface more supportive and pressure-relieving for your chosen position.
For instance, side sleepers may prefer a softer and thicker topper, since it will leave more room for their hips and shoulders to sink in without pressing against their mattress. Back sleepers and stomach sleepers often prefer firmer, thinner toppers for gentle contouring without significant midsection sinkage that could jeopardize their spinal alignment.
Quality Materials
The quality of the materials is one of the most important factors in determining a topper’s durability. High-quality materials typically resist indentations, sagging, and cracking so that you can continue to use your topper comfortably for years to come. While a topper made of quality materials will likely carry a higher sticker price, it may cost less over its lifespan than lower-quality options that require frequent replacement.
Cooling Properties
Sleeping hot is a common issue. Many toppers address this concern with special cooling features that allow heat to escape, wick away moisture, and/or make the surface feel cool to the touch. Pairing a cooling topper with a mattress that tends to retain heat may make the bed more comfortable for hot sleepers.
Firmness Level
Firmness preferences are subject to several factors, but some people tend to prefer certain firmnesses based on their body types. Most sleepers will likely find a medium to medium firm topper comfortable, especially if they weigh between 130 and 230 pounds. However, individuals who weigh under 130 pounds usually prefer a soft or medium soft option for more hug, while those who weigh more than 230 pounds frequently favor a medium firm to firm topper for more support.
Which topper firmness is ideal for you may also depend on the feel of your existing mattress. If your mattress is too firm, you may prefer a softer topper than what is most popular for your weight group. However, if it is too soft, a firm topper may be a better option.
Thickness
The thickness of the topper directly affects how much it changes the feel of the sleep surface. Most toppers range between 1 inch and 4 inches thick, with the thinner options providing a slight adjustment and the thicker models giving your bed a more significant transformation. How much you like the feel of your existing mattress and what sleep position you prefer may influence which thickness is best for you.
Pressure Relief
Many sleepers seek out toppers primarily for added pressure relief, especially if their existing mattress is too firm. Materials like memory foam, polyfoam, and latex redistribute a sleeper’s body weight to reduce pressure buildup around wider areas, like the hips and shoulders.
The thickness and firmness of a topper can contribute to the level of pressure relief an individual experiences. Thicker toppers traditionally have more pressure relief than thinner models since they have extra depth to cradle a sleeper’s curves. A firmness that corresponds to your body weight (softer for individuals under 130 pounds and firmer for those over 230 pounds) should give most sleepers the best combination of pressure relief and support.
Which Type of Mattress Topper Should I Choose?
There isn’t one right answer as to which variety of mattress topper you should choose. Each type carries potential benefits and drawbacks that may make them ideal for some individuals and uncomfortable for others.
To select the best variety of mattress topper for you, you should assess your priorities, preferences, sleep position, and existing mattress. Knowing more about the different types of toppers may also make the decision easier.
Polyfoam
Polyfoam toppers, especially those with convoluted foam, tend to be some of the most affordable options on the market. These toppers typically regain their shape more quickly and allow more airflow than memory foam, while also contouring to the sleeper’s body for pressure relief and support. However, lower-density, lower-quality polyfoam toppers may wear out faster than other types of toppers.
Memory foam
Memory foam conforms closely to the sleeper’s body, thereby distributing their body weight and relieving pressure. Since memory foam toppers tend to regain their shape relatively slowly when pressure is removed, they absorb a significant amount of motion but have little to no bounce. Toppers made of traditional memory foam are prone to heat retention, but some models use gel infusions or phase change material in the cover intended to help transfer away excess warmth.
Latex
Latex toppers may use natural, synthetic, and/or blended latex, though natural latex tends to be most popular because of its sustainability. To create natural latex, sap from rubber trees is formulated using either the Talalay or Dunlop process, both of which create a durable, breathable, and buoyant material. Latex toppers redistribute weight to relieve pressure, but the material’s low point elasticity provides more of a floating sensation than a full-body hug.
Feather and Down
Feather and down toppers, sometimes called featherbeds, typically use duck and/or goose feathers, down, or a combination of the two. Down is the plush inner plumage of a bird, which gives toppers a fluffy, light feel, but also carries a higher price tag. Feather toppers are usually more supportive and less expensive. While both feather and down toppers can feel luxurious, they do not typically provide the same level of pressure relief as foam. They may also allow more motion transfer, make a rustling noise, emit an odor, and/or trigger allergy symptoms.
Wool
Wool toppers cushion the sleep surface without the same contouring as foam. Perhaps the biggest benefit of wool toppers is their temperature regulation. Wool insulates when it’s cold, draws heat away when it’s warm, and wicks away moisture, allowing for all-season usage.
Frequently Asked Questions About King Mattress Toppers
Using two twin XL toppers instead of one king topper may be a good option for some couples, but it also has potential drawbacks. It’s beneficial in that each partner can select their ideal firmness rather than trying to find a compromise. Additionally, since the toppers are two separate pieces, motion transfer should be minimal.
But using two twin XL toppers is not without drawbacks. If you or your partner gravitate toward the center of the bed, you may feel the line where the two pieces meet, which may be uncomfortable. Some toppers are anchored in place with corner straps. When used in place of a king topper, two of the straps on each twin XL topper would not have a corner to hold it in place, so they may move around more. If either component shifts during the night, it could create a gap in the center of the bed.
King toppers usually cost between $100 and $400, but options are available for most budgets. Affordable options start at just $20, while luxury models can cost over $3,000. Price is often determined by the brand, construction, and materials.
There are important differences between king and California king sizes, which shoppers should consider before making a purchase. A king size is wider, while a California king size is longer. More specifically, a king typically measures 76 inches by 80 inches, compared to a California king’s 72 inches by 84 inches. If you want to have more room to roll over or change positions without disturbing your partner, you may prefer a king size. However, if you or your partner is especially tall, a California king may be more comfortable.
To avoid damage, mattress toppers should only be cleaned following the manufacturer’s care instructions. Each topper may have different instructions based on its materials. Those that contain memory foam, polyfoam, or latex cannot be washed but can usually be spot cleaned if necessary. Some also have removable, washable covers. Select fiber, wool, feather, and down toppers may be machine-washable depending on their constructions. Using a waterproof mattress protector over your bed can also help prevent dirt and stains.
Still have questions?
Our product experts have extensive experience testing just about every sleep product on the market.
Send an email to [email protected] with your questions and we’ll help you find exactly what you’re looking for.
Danny is a Certified Sleep Science Coach with an in-depth knowledge of sleep health. He has tested hundreds of mattresses and sleep products.
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Want to change the feel of your mattress in an eco-friendly way? An organic mattress…