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Best Mattress Toppers for College Dorm Bed
- The best mattress topper for a college dorm bed should cushion pressure points without sacrificing support. When choosing a mattress topper, consider your body type, preferred sleep position, and attributes you value, such as firmness and temperature regulation. Other factors that may be particularly important to students include ease of cleaning, portability, and price.
College dorm beds aren’t known for their comfort, but it’s hard to justify spending money on a mattress that might only see a couple of years of use. Another solution is a mattress topper. A mattress topper can go a long way toward improving the performance of a college dorm bed without the need to invest in a whole new mattress.
There are multiple factors to consider when choosing a mattress topper. Toppers come in various types of materials, which can affect their ability to cushion and support the body, regulate temperature, and provide an inviting sleep surface. The topper also interacts with the mattress below, which is something to keep in mind when evaluating the firmness level.
We’ve rounded up a list of our top picks for mattress toppers for dorm beds in order to help students get the all-important rest they need for success in college.
The Best Mattress Toppers for College Dorm Bed
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Best Overall
Sleepyhead Copper Topper
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Best Value
Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Cloud Topper
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Most Comfortable
Helix GlacioTex Premium Mattress Topper
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Best Luxury
Saatva Graphite Memory Foam Mattress Topper
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Best Eco-Friendly
Birch Plush Organic Mattress Topper
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Best Pressure Relief
Brooklyn Bedding 4-Lb. Memory Foam Topper
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Best Cooling
Sleepyhead Super Topper
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Best for Spinal Alignment
ViscoSoft Select High Density Mattress Topper
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Best for Side Sleepers
Layla Memory Foam Topper
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In-Depth Reviews
Best Overall
Sleepyhead Copper Topper
$100 off twin and twin XL Copper Toppers with code: ACOPPER100
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The Sleepyhead Copper Topper is a quintessential accessory for any dorm resident. Composed of adaptive memory foam, the topper is available in two profiles and cushioning levels to accommodate any dorm mattress — even models with considerable wear and tear.
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Pros
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Solid, copper-infused memory foam feels plush and resists overheating
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Available in five sizes and two profiles
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Cover is removable and machine-washable
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Cons
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Initial off-gassing odor can be bothersome for the first few nights
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Foam may sink and hinder movement across your bed
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Material
2-3″ memory foam (copper-infused)
Firmness
Medium Soft (4)
Why It’s Best Overall
Many mattress toppers are perfectly suitable for dorm beds, but the Sleepyhead Copper Topper was designed specifically for this purpose. You can choose from five sizes, four of which correspond with common dorm mattress dimensions, as well as 2-inch and 3-inch profiles depending on how much cushioning you need to sleep soundly.
How It Performed
During our hands-on tests, most of our team members enjoyed the Copper Topper but differed in their opinion about which profile was most comfortable. Our side sleepers preferred the deep contouring and extra padding of the 3-inch model, which is slightly softer and more adaptive than the 2-inch. Back and stomach sleepers received a bit more support from the lower profile.
Temperature control tests revealed above-average cooling compared to other memory foam toppers we’ve evaluated. This can be attributed to the copper infusion, which helps the core resist heat buildup. We also found the topper effective at distributing weight and promoting even alignment, which in turn can reduce soreness and pressure points along the spine for sleepers who frequently experience upper or lower back pain.
What It’s Made of
The Copper Topper’s core contains solid memory foam measuring 2 or 3 inches thick, depending on which profile you choose. A knit polyester cover encases the foam. You may remove and machine wash the cover whenever it needs to be cleaned. Each corner features a thick elastic strap for securing the topper to your mattress, so there shouldn’t be too much shifting when you toss and turn or change sleep positions. Twin, twin XL, full, and full XL sizes are available, as is a queen option for dorm residents with private rooms or people who live off-campus.
All current students receive a 10% discount with their purchase. Standard ground shipping is free of charge, and all orders include a sleep trial that runs for 60 nights. Sleepyhead’s “Good Till Graduation Warranty” covers structural and material defects in the Copper Topper for up to 5 years after the purchase date.
The TEMPUR-Cloud Topper delivers the next-level cushioning and pressure relief that have come to define the Tempur-Pedic brand. A machine-washable cover that secures the topper like a fitted sheet adds to the appealing, dorm-friendly design.
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Pros
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Durable, high-density TEMPUR foam provides deep contouring and cushioning
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Stretch-knit cover secures the topper to your sleep surface
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Excellent pain and pressure relief
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Cons
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Strong off-gassing odor for the first few nights
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Returns are not allowed at any point
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Material
2″ TEMPUR memory foam
Firmness
Medium (5)
The Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Cloud Topper offers excellent value for dorm residents thanks to its approachable sticker price and long expected lifespan. Proprietary TEMPUR memory foam is renowned for its durability and lasting power — you could potentially use this topper for the duration of your college years, and beyond.
How It Performed
Our team was greatly impressed with the TEMPUR-Cloud Topper. Measuring 2 inches thick, the topper provides noticeable cushioning and contouring without the deep hug we’ve encountered with thicker memory foam toppers. Side and back sleepers on our team weighing up to 230 pounds found the topper especially comfortable.
Ease of care is a big plus. The stretch-knit cover can be machine-washed and dried whenever a cleaning is needed. We also recommend the TEMPUR-Cloud Topper to anyone with frequent or chronic back pain, as well as couples looking for an extra layer to isolate movement and prevent motion transfer during the night.
What It’s Made of
The topper contains 2 inches of TEMPUR memory foam, a high-density material that resists wear and tear over time. A cover made of polyester and polypropylene encases the foam and can be pulled around the corners of your mattress like a fitted sheet. The cover is fully machine-washable, but the foam should only be spot cleaned with a damp cloth if stains or smudges occur.
Tempur-Pedic offers free ground shipping for customers in the contiguous U.S. There is no trial period for the TEMPUR-Cloud Topper, so all sales are final, but your order comes with a manufacturer’s warranty that covers material defects for up to 10 years.
Most Comfortable
Helix GlacioTex Premium Mattress Topper
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The high-profile Helix GlacioTex Premium Mattress Topper is a solid match for anyone whose mattress is worn with deep impressions or indentations. A cooling cover also makes it well suited to hot sleepers.
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Pros
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Foam and microcoil layers provide close, precise contouring
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Thick profile ensures a significant comfort adjustment for your mattress
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Elastic corner straps secure the topper to your sleep surface
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Cons
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Strong off-gassing odor for the first few nights
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High price-point compared to the competition
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Material
1.5″ polyfoam, .75″ microcoils, 1.5″ high-density polyfoam
Firmness
Medium Soft (4), Medium Firm (6)
Topper shoppers should follow a straightforward rule of thumb — the thicker the profile, the more comfortable your current mattress will feel. Measuring nearly 4 inches thick, the Helix GlacioTex Premium Mattress Topper is one of the thickest models on the market and highly suited for people with mattresses that are nearing retirement. The topper contains foam and microcoil layers that deliver deep cushioning and contouring, while the cover is engineered to feel cool to the touch at all times.
How It Performed
The topper is available in two firmness levels. After testing both, our team has determined the medium soft (4) model is ideal for side and back sleepers who weigh less than 130 pounds. This option may also work if your mattress has heavy wear and tear. The medium firm (6) design is a better fit for back and stomach sleepers who weigh 130 to 230 pounds, and side sleepers who weigh at least 130 pounds.
The GlacioTex cover is effective at reducing heat buildup in the top foam layer, while air flows freely through the microcoil layer to help the topper maintain a comfortable temperature for sleep. These qualities are key for hot sleepers. Since the topper is thick, padded with foam, and not very responsive, we also recommend it for couples who value motion isolation in their sleep surface.
What It’s Made of
The topper consists of three layers, beginning with 1.5 inches of adaptive polyfoam that molds closely to the body. Pocketed microcoils make up the middle layer. While there’s a light bounce, the coils won’t respond to movement or generate much motion transfer when you change sleep positions. The bottom layer consists of high-density base foam for added stability.
A cover made of proprietary GlacioTex fabric encases the topper. This material dissipates body heat on contact to keep you cool. Elastic straps in each corner secure the topper to your mattress. At 3.75 inches thick, the topper has a much higher profile than most competing models sold today.
The sticker price is fairly high, but this topper may be worth the investment if you’re losing sleep due to an uneven sleep surface. Helix also offers free ground shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. Each order includes a 100-night sleep trial, and the GlacioTex Premium Mattress Topper is further backed by a one-year warranty against manufacturing defects.
Best Luxury
Saatva Graphite Memory Foam Mattress Topper
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The Graphite Memory Foam Mattress Topper embodies the luxurious, high-quality construction that has made Saatva such a popular sleep brand. An adaptive surface ensures ample cushioning, and the breathable cover helps you stay cool during hotter times of the school year.
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Pros
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Dual-layer foam core contours evenly with solid base support
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Organic cotton cover is naturally breathable and moisture-wicking
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Thick corner straps secure the topper to your sleep surface
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Cons
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Expensive pricing is a barrier for students with tight budgets
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Strong off-gassing odor for the first few nights after unboxing
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Material
1″ graphite-infused memory foam, 2″ memory foam
Firmness
Medium Soft (4)
Saatva’s reputation for luxurious sleep products extends beyond the brand’s mattress line. Take the Graphite Memory Foam Mattress Topper, which boasts high-quality construction and thoughtful detailing to help you sleep comfortably on any dorm mattress — even those with deep impressions and indentations.
How It Performed
The topper measures 3 inches thick and has a medium soft (4) feel. As such, it received favorable ratings from our side sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds and our back and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds. We also found that the topper alleviates pressure well, and is a good fit for people with chronic or frequent aches and pains in sensitive areas along their spines.
Stability is another strength. Thick straps in each corner secure the topper to your mattress and prevent it from shifting during the night, even when you change positions or toss and turn. And while the foam may retain some warmth, the graphite infusion and breathable cover should reduce heat buildup to help you stay reasonably cool.
What It’s Made of
The topper’s core features a top layer of memory foam and a high-density polyfoam base. Graphite infused into the memory foam is intended to dissipate heat from the surface. A cover made of organic cotton encases the topper. Each corner is equipped with a thick elastic strap, and the fabric is treated with Guardin antimicrobial agent to stave off bacteria and keep your sleep area hygienic.
The Graphite Memory Foam Mattress Topper is somewhat expensive, but Saatva offers free ground delivery and a 180-night trial period with all orders. Those who keep the topper also receive a manufacturer’s warranty covering various defects for up to one year.
Best Eco-Friendly
Birch Plush Organic Mattress Topper
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Priced attractively considering its all-natural materials, the Birch Plush Organic Mattress Topper offers breathability, support, and bounce for eco-conscious shoppers.
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Pros
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Made with naturally breathable, durable, and environmentally friendly materials
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Provides a comfortable balance of pressure relief and support
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Springiness of latex enables sleepers to switch positions with ease
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Cons
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Much more expensive than the competition
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May not be comfortable for people who want to be “hugged” by their sleep surface
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Material
3″ Talalay Latex
Firmness
Medium (5)
The Birch Plush Organic Mattress Topper is made with a combination of organic cotton, organic wool, and natural Talalay latex. Its 2-inch profile and medium (5) firmness make it suitable for sleepers of most weights and sleeping positions.
How It Performed
Side, back, and stomach sleepers on our team all rated the Birch Plush Organic Mattress Topper highly. With a medium (5) firmness, the topper relieves pressure points without sinking or sagging. The topper performed best for those under 230 pounds. However, since latex does not compress as much as memory foam, stomach sleepers and those over 230 pounds still received a modest amount of support despite the topper’s firmness level.
Unsurprisingly, the topper excelled at resisting heat buildup thanks to its airy cotton cover and layers of breathable wool and ventilated Talalay latex. Latex also has a natural bounce that facilitates movement on top of the bed. This is helpful for those who frequently change sleeping positions, and it is also a desirable trait for sex.
What It’s Made Of
The Birch Plush Organic Mattress Topper is crafted with an organic cotton cover lined with organic wool fibers that add softness and double as a fire retardant, eliminating the need for fire-repellent chemicals. Cotton and wool are highly breathable, and wool has a naturally resilient structure that adds a subtle springiness.
The bulk of the topper is made with natural Talalay latex, a material that can accommodate pressure points while maintaining bounce and responsiveness. Altogether, the topper measures approximately 2 inches thick and has a medium (5) firmness level.
This topper is most compelling for people who want a topper with eco-friendly materials, including materials with certifications from the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) and Greenguard Gold. It is also a top choice for people who want a topper made with latex instead of foam. For each topper, Birch Living offers free shipping, a 100-night sleep trial, and a 10-year warranty.
Best Pressure Relief
Brooklyn Bedding 4-Lb. Memory Foam Topper
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Brooklyn Bedding’s 4-Lb. Memory Foam Topper is ideal for dorm dwellers due to its strong performance and reasonable pricing. Solid foam encased in cooling fabric is the best of both worlds for anyone who wants adaptive cushioning without the heat buildup.
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Pros
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Dense memory foam contours evenly to cushion the body and reduce pressure points
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Available in profiles of 2 or 3 inches
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Cover composed of cooling GlacioTex fabric
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Cons
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Lack of straps may cause topper to shift when you move
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Limited options for those seeking a firm topper
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Material
2-3″ 4 PCF memory foam
Firmness
Medium Soft (4), Medium (5)
A lot of college students operate on a fixed income, and many toppers exceed their spending budget. The Brooklyn Bedding 4-Lb. Memory Foam Topper is much more affordable than the average model made from solid memory foam. Multiple profile options and a cooling cover add to the appeal of this wallet-friendly option.
How It Performed
The 2-inch topper has a medium (5) feel, and earned favorable ratings from testers on our team weighing 130 to 230 pounds. Side and back sleepers were particularly impressed. Since this is the slimmer option, it’s best suited to mattresses with light impressions and indentations. Those using a mattress with heavier wear should consider the 3-inch topper, which is medium soft (4) and is only slightly more expensive. This model was popular among our side and back sleepers under 130 pounds.
The GlacioTex cover effectively offsets heat retention from the foam and feels cool to the touch, so the topper is above average in terms of breathability and temperature control. Pressure relief is another selling point if you’re prone to aches, pains, and sore spots in sensitive areas along the spine like the shoulders or hips.
What It’s Made of
The topper’s core is composed of solid memory foam with a density of 4 pounds per cubic foot, making it fairly dense — this indicates even contouring and a longer than average lifespan. A cover made of specialty GlacioTex fabric encases the foam. This material is engineered to dissipate body heat on contact. The topper is not equipped with corner straps, so you’ll need to secure it by tucking it beneath a fitted sheet — otherwise shifting may occur when you change sleep positions.
Brooklyn Bedding offers free ground shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. Each 4-Lb. Memory Foam Topper comes with a 30-night trial. If you keep the topper after the trial ends, structural and material defects are covered under a three-year manufacturer’s warranty.
The Sleepyhead Super Topper is ideal for students who find other foam toppers too hot. The pressure-relieving memory foam can help a dorm bed provide essential comfort and support.
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Pros
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Memory foam design excels at pressure relief
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Available in two thickness options
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Corner straps and non-slip bottom help secure topper to mattress
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Cons
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Foam may emit some off-gassing odors for a few days after unboxing
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Might feel too soft for stomach sleepers over 230 pounds
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Material
2-3″ Gel- and Copper-Infused Memory Foam
Firmness
Medium (5)
If you enjoy the deep cradling of all-foam toppers but tend to overheat on them, the Sleepyhead Super Topper is worth checking out. This model is designed with cooling features that help reduce some of the heat retention that foam is known for, so you’ll receive the strong contouring benefits of foam without getting overly hot.
How It Performed
The topper has a medium (5) feel and you can choose between a 2-inch or 3-inch option. Both thickness options excel at contouring but the thicker model offers deeper cushioning, which is ideal if you experience painful pressure buildup. Side sleepers may prefer this extra padding for the shoulders and hips, while stomach sleepers and certain back sleepers might prefer the thinner model to maintain support for the lower back.
What It’s Made of
The Sleepyhead Super Topper is composed entirely of memory foam, which conforms closely to your body. The foam is infused with a cooling gel that’s meant to combat heat buildup, and the cover is composed of a fabric specifically engineered to help keep you cool. Sleepyhead also infused the foam with copper, which is intended to promote antimicrobial properties. Adjustable straps help secure the topper to your bed, and a non-slip design on the bottom further prevents slippage at night.
The topper comes with a 60-night sleep trial and free ground shipping. It is also backed by a five-year warranty.
Best for Spinal Alignment
ViscoSoft Select High Density Mattress Topper
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This memory foam topper is designed to cushion pressure points for side and back sleepers. The Viscosoft Select High Density Mattress Topper also stands out for its superior temperature regulation compared to most other memory foam models.
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Pros
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Balanced feel with light contouring appeals to a broad range of sleepers
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Gel infusions are engineered to help limit heat buildup
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Removable cover enables easy cleaning
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Cons
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Potentially too plush for stomach sleeping
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Strong off-gassing smells may persist for up to 72 hours
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Material
2-4″ gel-Infused memory foam
Firmness
Medium Firm (6)
Available in 3-inch or 4-inch models, the Viscosoft Select High Density Mattress Topper consists entirely of memory foam and has a medium firm (6) firmness level. The breathable cover and gel-infused foam are designed to mitigate heat retention.
How It Performed
Side and back sleepers on our testing team found that this memory foam topper contoured to the hips and shoulders, reducing pressure and supporting spinal alignment. Its performance was especially well-suited to side sleepers who weigh between 130 and 230 pounds and back sleepers under 230 pounds.
Testers on our team also found the topper outperformed the average memory foam topper in terms of temperature regulation. The topper’s gel-infused foam is intended to prevent heat from collecting in the foam, and tiny holes in the foam are designed to provide ventilation so that heat can escape out and away from the sleeping surface.
Memory foam makes virtually no noise when bearing weight. Additionally, with its medium firm (6) feel, sleepers didn’t perceive that they were sinking too deeply into the topper.
What It’s Made Of
The Viscosoft Select High Density Mattress Topper is made with gel-infused memory foam. Viscosoft offers the option of a 3-inch or 4-inch profile, both of which have a medium firm (6) feel. Given its thicker foam layer, the 4-inch model may be a better fit for people who have sharp pressure points.
The topper has a breathable cover made with rayon derived from bamboo. To make cleaning easier, the cover is removable and machine-washable. It’s also equipped with adjustable straps as well as an anti-slip mesh bottom. Viscosoft offers upgraded topper options infused with lavender or charcoal intended to enhance other aspects of the topper’s performance.
Our testing showed that the Viscosoft Select High Density Mattress Topper can meet the needs of most students who are looking for a truly comfortable topper that can also offer solid support. The topper is backed by a 90-night sleep trial and a five-year warranty. Toppers ship free to the contiguous U.S.
Best for Side Sleepers
Layla Memory Foam Topper
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The Layla Memory Foam Topper provides significant conforming and a plush feel that’s ideal for side sleepers under 130 pounds. Features like copper gel infusions and a lightweight, breathable cover are engineered to help keep the topper cool through the night.
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Pros
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Copper gel infusions engineered to reduce heat retention
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All-foam design promotes quiet performance
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Lightweight build makes it easy to transport
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Cons
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Heavily worn mattresses may require a thicker topper with deeper cushioning
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High potential for strong initial odor after unboxing
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Material
2″ Copper Gel-Infused Memory Foam
Firmness
Soft (3)
Made with plush memory foam, the Layla Memory Foam Topper helps cradle the body and cushion pressure points. Design elements like copper gel-infused foam and a ThermoGEL agent in the cover are included to promote temperature neutrality.
How It Performed
In our testing, the Layla Memory Foam Topper stood out for pressure relief, particularly when our testers were sleeping on their side. Side sleepers often experience bothersome impact near the hips and shoulders, which bear most of the weight in this position. The plush memory foam helped hug and cushion these areas, especially for people who weigh under 130 pounds. While some people over 130 pounds also liked this topper in our testing, others found it to be too soft.
Back sleepers on our team who weigh under 130 pounds also rated the Layla Memory Foam Topper well, noting that it provided even conforming with just the right touch of support to prevent lower back pain. Back sleepers over 130 pounds and most stomach sleepers found the memory foam to have too much sink.
Like most memory foam toppers, the Layla effectively absorbed motion and noise. In our tests, the cooling features also did their job, helping attenuate the heat buildup that is common with traditional memory foam.
What It’s Made Of
The Layla Memory Foam Topper is built with 2 inches of memory foam with a soft (3) firmness level. Copper gel is infused into the memory foam with the goal of keeping heat from building up around the sleeper. At just 11 pounds for a twin size, the Layla Mattress Topper is practical and easy to move when changing dorm rooms.
The cover is made with polyester, viscose, and lycra, and it contains a ThermoGEL agent engineered to cool things down when body temperature rises.
For students who want a plush feel to their bed but want to avoid overheating, the Layla Memory Foam topper can deliver impressive results. Layla offers free shipping to the contiguous U.S., and the topper comes with a 120-night sleep trial and a five-year warranty.
Why You Should Trust Us
Our selection of the best mattress toppers for college dorm beds is carefully curated based on extensive testing and research. For this list, we paid particular attention to features that would be desirable in a college dorm setup, such as portability and ease of cleaning.
All of the toppers on this list have been personally tested by our experienced team. Because body weight and sleeping style can influence the performance of a mattress topper, our testing team includes sleepers with different body types and preferred sleeping positions. We also use pressure mapping and motion sensors to compare the attributes of each topper. These objective tests help us draw a fair comparison between different models.
How to Choose a Mattress Topper for a Dorm Bed
College dorm beds are notoriously uncomfortable. Poor sleep can lead to poor mental health, making an already disruptive life transition even more challenging. One of the best ways to combat this discomfort is with a mattress topper.
A mattress topper is a layer of material placed on top of a mattress but below the fitted sheet. They usually run about 1 to 3 inches thick and can do wonders in changing the feel of a bed. There are many toppers on the market and a host of factors to think about when looking for the right mattress topper to bring to college. We’ll walk you through common considerations.
What to Consider When Purchasing a Mattress Topper for a Dorm
Between different materials, budgets, and sleep preferences, choosing the right mattress topper for a dorm bed can be difficult. While no two sleepers have the same needs, all shoppers should consider certain factors when buying a mattress topper for a dorm bed.
Size
When purchasing a mattress topper, it is important to look for an option that matches the size of your dorm bed. Most college dorm mattresses are twin XL size, but this can vary by school. Make sure you know your mattress size before making a purchase.
Price
Mattress toppers can cost anywhere from under $100 to over $400 depending on factors like materials and size. Since most college beds use twin XL mattresses, a dorm mattress topper may fall on the lower end of the average price range.
Sleeping Position
The ideal mattress topper for your dorm bed depends on your sleeping position. Back and stomach sleepers traditionally need more support, whereas side sleepers tend to prefer extra contouring.
Thickness
The thicker the mattress topper, the more it can affect the feel of the sleep surface. However, many college dorm beds are lofted, meaning a thicker mattress topper might present safety issues. The Consumer Product Safety Commission requires that the top of a bunk bed guardrail be at least 5 inches above the sleep surface. Keep in mind that adding a topper raises the sleep surface, so you may need higher guardrails. Also, factor in the ceiling height to ensure the sleeper won’t bump their head when they sit up.
Firmness Level
One of the chief benefits of a mattress topper is that it can alter the feel of your bed, helping to make a firm bed softer and vice versa. The best firmness for you depends on many factors, particularly sleeping position and body type. For example, if you’re over 230 pounds, a firmer mattress topper can add support to promote better posture. On the other hand, if you’re under 130 pounds, softer options should allow you to sink in more for greater pressure relief.
Quality Materials
High-quality topper materials tend to offer better support, comfort, and durability. However, as with many products, premium materials typically cost more. The level of quality necessary for a dorm mattress topper may vary based on your intended usage. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, temporary fix, quality might not be a high priority. However, if you hope to use the topper for several years, it may be more affordable to purchase a well-made model upfront rather than replacing it every year or two.
Pressure Relief
If a mattress topper provides good pressure relief, that means it redistributes body weight to minimize sore spots. Pressure relief is generally critical for side sleepers since their hips and shoulders often dig into the mattress. Dorm mattresses are usually relatively firm, so many shoppers look for a mattress topper with notable contouring to prevent pressure buildup.
Cooling Properties
A cooling mattress topper is designed to regulate temperature, preventing sleepers from overheating. Temperature control varies between materials. Latex, wool, and open-cell polyfoam are popular for their ability to dissipate heat. While memory foam’s density and close hug tend to trap heat, many manufacturers include specially engineered materials intended to counteract this effect.
Which Type of Mattress Topper Should I Choose?
The best mattress topper for you depends on a variety of factors, including sleep position, body type, and budget. Different materials are better suited to different needs, so shoppers should understand the basics of each type of mattress topper.
Memory Foam
Memory foam mattress toppers are known for their close-conforming pressure relief. Side sleepers with an overly firm dorm mattress may prefer a memory foam topper to spread their weight more evenly across the surface and promote neutral spinal alignment. The material’s ability to absorb motion may also help reduce mattress and bedframe noises.
Polyfoam
Polyfoam mattress toppers offer responsive conforming without as much hug as memory foam. They also tend to be more affordable, so they’re well suited to college students looking for a boost in comfort without breaking the bank.
Latex
Latex mattress toppers are popular for their buoyancy, durability, and temperature control. Two formulations are available: Talalay latex and Dunlop latex. Talalay latex toppers tend to be light and airy. Side sleepers with a dorm bed that’s too firm may prefer this formulation. Dunlop latex toppers are typically firmer, making them especially well suited to back and stomach sleepers.
Feather and Down
Feather and down mattress toppers are generally soft and plush, making them ideal for people looking to add cushioning to a firm dorm mattress. Feather fill typically offers a bit more support than down, but neither of these materials is known for its support. Therefore, they’re usually not a top choice for back or stomach sleepers.
What Are the Benefits of a Mattress Topper in a College Dorm?
A mattress topper allows a college student to customize their sleep experience by altering the feel, support, and breathability of their assigned mattress. In the process, it can take a generic dorm bed and make it better suited to an individual’s needs and preferences. A topper can do this in a few ways:
- Extra comfort: One of the chief benefits of adding a mattress topper to a dorm bed is added comfort. A mattress topper can enhance softness, support, contouring, or temperature regulation depending on its design.
- Mattress protection: Colleges often charge fees if a dorm mattress is damaged. Toppers provide a layer of protection against wear and tear, which might make it easier to return the mattress in acceptable condition.
- Stronger support: Many dorm beds are thin and rigid, offering minimal support and contouring. A mattress topper can improve pressure relief and promote better spinal alignment to reduce aches and pains.
- Better cooling: Certain mattress toppers can improve air circulation around your body, allowing heat to escape. If a dorm lacks air conditioning, a breathable topper may be critical to overall comfort.
Mattress Topper vs. Mattress Pad
The biggest difference between a mattress topper and a mattress pad is the thickness. Mattress toppers typically run between 1 and 3 inches, whereas mattress pads are much thinner. Both rest on top of the mattress underneath the fitted sheet, but they vary in what they accomplish.
A mattress topper can significantly alter the softness or firmness of a bed. In contrast, a mattress pad adds a bit of cushioning without changing the overall firmness of the sleep surface. While a topper can extend the life expectancy of the mattress by shielding it from general wear and tear, a pad protects against accidents and contaminants.
Because of their different purposes, a mattress topper and a mattress pad pair well together. You can put the topper on the mattress and the pad over the topper. This combination can simultaneously protect the mattress itself and the topper.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mattress Toppers
You can buy a mattress topper from a variety of online and brick-and-mortar stores that sell mattresses. Many mattress manufacturers also sell other sleep products, so you may be able to purchase toppers directly through their websites.
Most dorm beds are twin XL size, making that the most common size for dorm bed mattress toppers. However, mattress size varies between dorms, so check your bed size before buying a topper. Your college’s housing department should be able to tell you what mattress size you’ll have.
The ideal mattress topper thickness for a college dorm bed varies based on individual needs and preferences. Mattress toppers usually run between 1 and 3 inches in thickness. The thicker the mattress topper, the more it can adjust the firmness and support of your mattress.
If you’re using a lofted bed, you should also take safety into account. The guardrails should be at least 5 inches higher than the combined thickness of the mattress and topper. Also, measure to make sure the sleeper can sit up comfortably without bumping their head on the ceiling.
A mattress topper is significantly thicker than a mattress pad, meaning it can have a greater impact on comfort and support. A mattress pad is better suited to protecting a mattress against damage from liquids or dirt.
The cost of a mattress topper varies depending on its size and materials, but most models run from $150 to $450. Like many products, mattress toppers made from higher-quality materials usually cost more. This means that toppers made from materials like wool, latex, down, or memory foam might be at the higher end of that price range. That said, higher-quality materials also frequently last longer.
If the combined height of your mattress and mattress topper is over 14 inches, you may need deep pocket sheets. In these sets, the fitted sheet has a deeper pocket to accommodate a thicker mattress. However, most dorm mattresses are relatively thin, so it’s unlikely that adding a topper will increase the profile to over 14 inches.
Mattress topper care guidelines vary depending on the materials and construction. Most can be vacuumed, sprinkled with baking soda, and then vacuumed again. Carefully follow the manufacturer’s care instructions to prevent damage.
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Lauren is a Certified Sleep Science Coach with extensive experience researching and testing a wide variety of sleep products.
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