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Best Memory Foam Mattress Toppers
A mattress topper is a layer of cushioning material that can be placed on top of a mattress to make the surface feel softer. Most toppers measure 1 to 3 inches thick, so using one on a mattress is essentially the same as adding an extra comfort layer. You should consider a topper if you find your current mattress too firm, or if the bed’s comfort layers have begun to deteriorate due to age. A topper won’t “fix” an old mattress that needs to be replaced, but it can provide a temporary fix if your bed no longer feels comfortable.
Memory foam is one of the most popular materials for toppers. Also known as viscoelastic polyurethane foam, memory foam softens when exposed to body heat and creates a deep, pressure-relieving cradle as you slowly sink into the material. The close contouring of memory foam can alleviate pressure for any sleeper, and also improve spinal alignment for side sleepers who don’t receive enough padding for their shoulders and hips.
Our best memory foam mattress topper guide will take a closer look at these products in terms of pricing, construction, and performance in different areas. Below, we’ve listed our top picks among memory foam toppers sold today. Each selection is based on a combination of verified owner experiences and in-house evaluations from our internal testing and research.
The Best Memory Foam Mattress Toppers
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Best Overall
Helix GlacioTex Premium Mattress Topper
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Best Value
Puffy Mattress Topper
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Most Comfortable
Nolah Mattress Topper
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Best Luxury
PlushBeds Memory Foam Topper
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Best for Back Pain
Saatva High-Density Foam Mattress Topper
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Best for Side Sleepers
ViscoSoft Select High Density Mattress Topper
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Best Temperature Regulating
Saatva Graphite Memory Foam Mattress Topper
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Best for Hip Pain
The Company Store Serene Memory Foam Topper
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Softest
Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Adapt Topper
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In-Depth Reviews
Best Overall
Helix GlacioTex Premium Mattress Topper
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The Helix GlacioTex Premium Mattress Topper boasts a thick profile with three distinct layers to ensure a deep contour from head to toe. A cover made of proprietary cooling fabric also helps reduce heat retention while you sleep.
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Pros
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Sophisticated three-layer design excels at cushioning and pressure relief
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Strong motion isolation for couples
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GlacioTex cover dissipates body heat and feels cool to the touch
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Cons
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Above-average pricing for a foam topper
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May not provide enough support for back and stomach sleepers over 230 pounds
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Price
$499
Material
1.5″ polyfoam, .75″ microcoils, 1.5″ high-density polyfoam
Firmness
Medium Soft (4), Medium Firm (6)
Helix’s GlacioTex Premium Mattress Topper is a cut above most competing memory foam toppers on the market today, and this is largely thanks to its unconventional design. Plush adaptive foam on the surface, a microcoil middle layer, and a dense foam base ensure plenty of cushioning and contouring without sacrificing support. You can also choose from three firmness levels based on your body type and primary sleep position.
The topper measures nearly 4 inches thick, making it a good fit for any mattress — especially if the sleep surface is heavily worn or indented. Thick corner straps secure the topper to your sleep surface, so there won’t be any shifting or bunching when you change sleep positions. Another standout feature is a cover made of Glaciotex cooling fabric. This material is engineered to dissipate body heat as soon as your skin touches the topper and feels cool at all times.
Our hands-on tests show the medium soft (4) model is a good match for side and back sleepers who weigh less than 130 pounds. This design offers deep cushioning and contouring, and may sink a bit too much for sleepers who weigh 130 pounds or more. These folks are better candidates for the medium firm (6) design, which conforms to a moderate extent and won’t hug the body too closely.
Pricing is above-average and may be a dealbreaker for budget-conscious shoppers, but shipping is free throughout the contiguous U.S. and each purchase includes a generous 100-night sleep trial. The Helix GlacioTex Premium Mattress Topper is also backed by a one-year warranty covering structural and material defects.
Best Value
Puffy Mattress Topper
Use this SleepFoundation.org link for the most current discount on Puffy mattress toppers
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The Puffy Mattress Topper offers exceptional value thanks to its combination of high-quality design and approachable pricing. You can choose between two firmness levels, soft or firm, depending on how much contouring you need to sleep comfortably.
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Pros
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Solid memory foam with a thick profile significantly changes how comfortable your mattress feels
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Two firmness levels to accommodate different sleep positions and body types
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Elastic-pocket cover stretches over your mattress corners for added stability
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Cons
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No options for sleepers seeking a medium to medium firm topper
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Cover pocket depth limited to 15-inch mattress profiles
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Price
$245
Material
2.5″ memory foam
Firmness
Soft (3), Firm (7)
An adaptive mattress topper can improve spinal alignment and alleviate pressure for sleepers who sleep on their sides or backs. The Puffy Mattress Topper is constructed from pure memory foam that cushions the spine and reduces discomfort in the shoulders, lumbar region, and hips. Available in two feels, the soft (3) option contours very closely for people who weigh up to 230 pounds, while the firm (7) option offers extra support for those who weigh more.
One notable feature of this topper is its cover, which is composed of polyester blended with bamboo-derived fabric. The latter offers exceptional breathability to help the topper retain less body heat and sleep reasonably cool. The cover is designed like a fitted sheet with elasticated corners. Thanks to a pocket depth of 15 inches, the cover should fit on most mattresses sold today. The cover is completely machine-washable. Small grooves on the bottom of the topper help keep it in place, so it shouldn’t shift too much during the night.
The Puffy Mattress Topper is available in six sizes that correspond to standard mattress dimensions. It is priced competitively and ground shipping is free of charge for customers in all 50 states. Each order includes a sleep trial that spans 101 nights in length, as well as a lifetime warranty for those who keep the topper.
The Nolah Mattress Topper uses AirFoam, a proprietary open-cell material that contours closely to your body without the deep hug or heat retention of traditional memory foam. Thick elastic straps secure the topper to your sleep surface, so shifting shouldn’t be an issue when you toss and turn or change sleep positions.
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Pros
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Open-cell foam promotes airflow and resists heat buildup
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Cover is composed of soft, breathable organic cotton
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Available in two firmness levels
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Cons
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Strong off-gassing smell can be present after unboxing
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Above-average pricing for a foam topper
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Price
$299
Material
2″ AirFoam polyfoam
Firmness
Medium Soft (4), Medium Firm (6)
Pressure buildup along the spine can occur if your mattress has become firmer and less adaptive with age. The Nolah Mattress Topper is composed of AirFoam, a proprietary material that contours closely to your body much like memory foam. Measuring 2 inches thick, the topper can significantly soften your sleep surface and alleviate any pressure that occurs from sleeping on an older mattress.
Two firmness levels are available. We recommend choosing a design based on your body type and primary sleep position, as well as your mattress’ wear and tear level. The medium soft (4) model provides deep cushioning, making it best suited to side sleepers up to 230 pounds and back and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds. The medium firm (6) feel is a bit more supportive, and should be comfortable for people who weigh 130 pounds or more regardless of their sleep position.
Thick elastic straps secure the corners to prevent shifting when you change sleep positions or toss and turn during the night. The straps make the topper compatible with mattresses between 10 and 15 inches thick, but you can forgo the straps if your mattress falls outside this range. An organic cotton cover encases the topper. The fabric is exceptionally soft and breathable, effectively offsetting the foam’s heat-retaining properties to help you stay cool.
The Nolah Mattress Topper is available in six sizes, all of which correspond to standard mattress dimensions. Standard ground shipping is free of charge for customers in the contiguous U.S. Your order includes a 30-night trial period. If you choose to keep the topper after the trial ends, you’ll also receive a 10-year warranty against material defects.
Best Luxury
PlushBeds Memory Foam Topper
Use this SleepFoundation.org link for the most current discount on PlushBeds mattress toppers
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The PlushBeds Memory Foam Topper is gentle and adaptive, contouring closely to distribute your weight, promote even alignment, and reduce pressure along your spine. Our tests show the thick profile options and medium feel are especially well suited to side sleeping.
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Pros
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Deep cushioning and contouring helps minimize pressure buildup
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Multiple profile and density options to meet the needs of different sleeper types
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Excellent motion isolation for couples
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Cons
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Cover only available for an additional fee
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Returns are not accepted after the delivery date
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Price
$326
Material
2-3″ gel memory foam
Firmness
Medium (5)
The PlushBeds Memory Foam Topper helps minimize sleep disturbances for couples by absorbing most movements and preventing them from transferring across the sleep surface. Though the topper’s cost runs higher than some competing foam toppers, the quality materials and strong contouring performance make it worth the higher price tag.
The topper is designed to evenly distribute body weight and help alleviate pressure on the shoulders and hips. The high-density memory foam retains its shape and resists sagging and deep impressions over time. Available in all six standard mattress sizes, the topper comes in either a 2-inch or 3-inch profile. Shoppers can also choose between two densities: 4 PFC (pounds per cubic foot) and 5.34 PCF. Mattress type, sleeping position, and desired overall feel will determine which option is most suitable. While both profiles offer contouring and pressure relief, the thicker option will more significantly alter the feel of the existing mattress.
Hot sleepers should find that this topper stays cooler than some competing foam toppers, as the open-cell viscoelastic memory foam construction is engineered to retain less heat than traditional memory foam. A breathable organic cotton cover can be added for an additional cost.
Orders ship free of charge to the contiguous U.S. While the topper is not eligible for return, it is covered by a 5-year warranty in the event of a manufacturing defect.
Best for Back Pain
Saatva High-Density Foam Mattress Topper
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The Saatva High-Density Mattress Topper is a great choice for side sleeping due to its close, even contour and ample cushioning for the shoulders and hips. Restless sleepers can also benefit from using the topper because its thick corner straps provide excellent stability.
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Pros
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Dense composition helps ensure a long lifespan
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Organic cotton cover is soft, breathable, and sustainably sourced
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Corner straps secure the topper to your sleep surface and minimize shifting
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Cons
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Above-average pricing for a foam topper
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High potential for bothersome off-gassing odor after unboxing
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Price
$295
Material
1.5″ High-Density Polyfoam
Firmness
Medium (5)
Saatva offers several mattress topper designs that cater to different types of sleepers based on their preferred position and body type. The High-Density Foam Mattress Topper is the most affordable option and offers a strong balance of cradling and support.
Measuring 1.5 inches thick, the topper has a medium (5) feel that ensures close, even contouring. These qualities make the topper best suited to side sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds and all back sleepers. It’s especially suitable for those who experience pressure points in the shoulders, lower back, and other sensitive areas along the spine.
The foam cradles your body closely but also has a high-density composition to enhance support and minimize uncomfortable sinkage. The entire topper is encased in a cover made of breathable cotton with moisture-wicking properties. Since the topper has a 1.5-inch profile, it’s suitable for those seeking minor mattress adjustments. The topper is equipped with thick elastic corner bands to secure it to the bed and prevent shifting while you sleep.
Saatva provides free ground shipping throughout the contiguous U.S., and each order is backed by a 180-night sleep trial and 1-year warranty.
Best for Side Sleepers
ViscoSoft Select High Density Mattress Topper
25% off + free shipping
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ViscoSoft’s Select High Density Mattress Topper uses cooling infusions and a ventilated cover to promote breathability, reducing heat retention in the process. This is an excellent choice for people who enjoy the hug of memory foam but also need a topper that regulates temperature well.
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Pros
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Solid memory foam contours evenly without sinking too much
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Available in profiles of 3 and 4 inches
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Thick corner straps stabilize the topper and minimize shifting
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Cons
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Strong off-gassing odor may be present for the first 72 hours after unboxing
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People over 230 pounds may struggle to move on the topper
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Price
$225
Material
2-4″ gel-Infused memory foam
Firmness
Medium Firm (6)
The ViscoSoft Select High Density is a standout memory foam topper thanks to its thicker construction and affordable price-point. Constructed from 3 or 4 inches of high-density foam, the topper is firmer and more supportive than a lot of competing models.
The topper’s thick profile makes it better suited to people who weigh 130 pounds or more, especially back and stomach sleepers who tend to sink too much on memory foam surfaces. Comparatively, many memory foam toppers are softer and best suited to those weighing less than 130 pounds. Additionally, the memory foam provides excellent motion isolation and should reduce sleep disruptions for couples and co-sleepers.
The topper’s cover can be removed and laundered in any household machine, making it easy to clean; the foam never needs to be washed, but you can spot-clean the material if stains or spills occur. The bottom surface features a mesh material to provide traction and prevent the topper from slipping across the surface of your mattress. Elastic straps can also be fitted around all four corners of the mattress for added stability.
ViscoSoft offers two specialized versions of this topper in addition to the standard model. One is infused with lavender to provide a soothing scent and help you feel relaxed before falling asleep. The other model is infused with active charcoal, an antimicrobial material that keeps harmful bacteria out of your bed. Active charcoal can also draw heat away from your body to help you sleep cool.
The ViscoSoft Select High Density is fairly affordable compared to other memory foam toppers, especially thicker models. All customers in the contiguous U.S. qualify for free ground shipping. The topper comes with a 60-night sleep trial for testing it out, as well as a three-year warranty in case the product has a defect.
Best Temperature Regulating
Saatva Graphite Memory Foam Mattress Topper
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Saatva’s Graphite Memory Foam Mattress Topper boasts high-quality materials and dual-layer construction. A breathable organic cotton cover equipped with sturdy corner straps completes the luxurious design.
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Pros
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Graphite infusion promotes cooling and reduces heat retention
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Thick profile significantly alters how soft and adaptive your mattress feels
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Corner straps ensure excellent stability
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Cons
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Only available in one firmness level
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Expensive sticker price compared to the average memory foam topper
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Price
$295
Material
1″ graphite-infused memory foam, 2″ memory foam
Firmness
Medium Soft (4)
Saatva offers a lineup of mattress toppers that cater to different types of sleepers based on their preferred position and body type. The company’s memory foam topper measures 3 inches with a medium soft (4) feel that ensures close, even contouring. These qualities make the topper best suited to side and back sleepers who weigh up to 230 pounds, especially those who experience pressure points in the shoulders, hips, or sensitive areas along the spine.
The topper is composed entirely of memory foam infused with graphite, which is intended to resist heat buildup and maintain a comfortable surface temperature. The topper is encased in a cover made of breathable organic cotton with moisture-wicking properties, which contributes to the above-average thermoregulation. Since the Graphite Topper has a 3-inch profile, it will change the feel of your mattress to a significant extent. The topper is equipped with thick elastic corner bands to secure them to the bed and prevent shifting while you sleep.
Saatva provides free ground shipping throughout the contiguous U.S., and each order is backed by a 180-night sleep trial and one-year warranty.
Best for Hip Pain
The Company Store Serene Memory Foam Topper
Use this SleepFoundation.org link for the most current discount on Layla mattress toppers
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If you live with frequent or chronic hip pain, the Serene Memory Foam Topper from The Company Store should provide sufficient cushioning and cradling for this and other sensitive areas. A stretch-pocket cover also helps you secure the topper to your mattress without straps or loops.
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Pros
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Plush medium (5) feel ensures ample cushioning for the shoulders, lumbar region, and hips
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Channeled construction promotes airflow and prevents excessive heat retention
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Elastic cover is compatible with any mattress up to 18 inches thick
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Cons
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May not be thick enough if you want to greatly adjust how soft your mattress feels
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Strong off-gassing smells may be noticeable for the first two to three nights
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Price
$229
Material
2″ memory foam
Firmness
Medium (5)
If hip pain affects your sleep, a plush memory foam topper can bring the relief you need to rest comfortably. The Serene Memory Foam Topper from The Company Store is composed of soft, adaptive foam with a channeled design that promotes air circulation, so you can enjoy close contouring and cushioning without sleeping excessively hot.
The foam is encased in a thin cover with elastic skirting. A pocket depth of 18 inches makes the topper compatible with the vast majority of mattresses sold today. The cover is neither removable nor machine-washable, so you cannot launder the topper in your household machines. If stains or soiling occur, spot clean the affected areas with warm water and mild detergent.
Twin, full, queen, king, and California king sizes are available. The Company Store offers free ground delivery for all orders within the contiguous U.S. You may test out the topper for up to 30 nights before deciding whether to keep it or return it. If you opt for the latter, a small shipping charge is deducted from your refund.
The TEMPUR-Adapt Topper is exceptionally plush and adaptive, making it a great choice if your mattress has become overly firm or stiff with use. A dense composition also helps the foam resist wear and tear, so you can use the topper for as long as needed on your sleep surface.
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Pros
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Thick profile and soft feel greatly change the comfort level of your mattress
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Strong motion isolation for couples
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Knit cover is breathable and machine-washable
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Cons
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Foam may absorb and trap heat
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Returns are not allowed at any point
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Price
$419
Material
3″ TEMPUR Memory Foam
Firmness
Medium (5)
The TEMPUR-Adapt Topper from Tempur-Pedic is constructed using TEMPUR memory foam, the proprietary material that has made Tempur-Pedic mattresses so popular among people with persistent back pain. The foam has a dense composition and contours closely to cushion the body, distribute your weight, and reduce pressure points in the lumbar region and other sensitive areas along the spine.
Side sleepers in particular can benefit from this topper because this position often interferes with even alignment and creates pressure buildup in the shoulders and hips. Back sleepers who enjoy softer sleep surfaces should also find the topper comfortable. It is considered medium (5) in terms of firmness, making it best suited to people who weigh up to 230 pounds. The 3-inch profile means your mattress will feel significantly different with the topper in place, so it may serve as a temporary fix if your mattress is especially old or indented.
The topper is encased in a knit cover that can be removed and machine-washed as needed. While the foam may retain some body heat, the cover is fairly breathable and should prevent you from feeling excessively warm. Co-sleepers may also find the topper useful thanks to the TEMPUR foam’s motion-isolating capabilities. The foam absorbs movement and practically eliminates transfer across the surface, allowing you to sleep soundly when your partner moves in bed and vice versa.
Tempur-Pedic offers free ground shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. The company does not permit returns for the topper, so all sales are final, but each customer receives a manufacturer’s warranty that covers structural defects for up to 5 years.
How to Choose a Memory Foam Mattress Topper
At first glance, most memory foam toppers will appear to be quite similar. However, there are several factors to take into account when comparing different topper brands and models. These include topper thickness and firmness, the quality of construction and materials, available sizes, and prices. You should also decide before buying whether you plan to use the topper every night or on an occasional basis, as some models offer better durability than others.
Below, we’ll list all of the different variables to consider when choosing a memory foam topper. We’ll also answer a few frequently asked questions about these products. If after you read all of our recommendations, you decide a new mattress is the right move instead of a topper and like the feel of memory foam, please review our selection of great memory foam mattresses for consider.
What to Consider When Purchasing a Memory Foam Mattress Topper
When browsing different memory foam toppers, you should be wary of certain claims from manufacturers. For instance, “universal comfort” is a common exaggeration. Each topper is constructed for a specific firmness level that will make it more comfortable for certain people based on their body type and sleep position, and less so for others.
Rather than focusing on marketing jargon, you should use the following factors to guide your search for the best memory foam topper.
Type of Foam
Check for density when comparing memory foam toppers. Denser foams offer better durability, more consistent motion isolation, and deeper contouring without too much sink. Less dense foams, on the other hand, are usually more breathable and won’t emit as much off-gassing odor. If the topper is composed of certain types of memory foam, then it may also sleep noticeably cooler. Some of the best cooling memory foam mattress topper models are made from open-cell memory foam, which promotes steady airflow and feels more breathable as a result.
Price
The average memory foam mattress topper costs between $150 and $300 in a queen size. Keep in mind that a high sticker price does not necessarily mean the topper is superior to its more affordable counterparts. In fact, some high-quality memory foam toppers cost less than $150 in a queen. Customer reviews on topper product pages can be helpful resources for determining whether a topper has a fair price or is too expensive.
Sleeping Position
Side sleepers generally prefer softer toppers that cushion the shoulders and hips, align the spine, and alleviate pressure throughout the body. Comparatively, most back and stomach sleepers need a firmer topper that will keep their bodies on an even plane without sinking too much. Most toppers are designed to be softer in order to adjust the feel of your mattress, so be sure to inquire about firmness levels before picking a model.
Quality Materials
The quality of memory foam used in a topper can affect different performance factors, including durability, pressure relief, and temperature neutrality. Denser memory foam won’t deteriorate as quickly and delivers the most even conforming, whereas open-cell memory foam is more breathable for hot sleepers. The best gel memory foam mattress topper models also sleep cooler than average, though gel may not affect the topper’s breathability to a noticeable extent.
Firmness Level
The majority of memory foam toppers are considered soft, medium soft, or medium. This is because most toppers are meant to make a firmer mattress feel softer. If you sleep on your side or back and/or weigh more than 230 pounds, you may want to consider a firmer topper instead. This ensures minimal sinkage and less added pressure.
Thickness
Most toppers measure at least 1 inch thick, but those measuring 2 to 3 inches thick are more effective at adjusting the feel of your mattress. However, keep in mind that thicker toppers can also make your mattress taller, which can cause difficulty for some when they get in and out of bed.
Pressure Relief
The best memory foam mattress topper for back pain and pressure will conform evenly to your body without sinking too much between the shoulders and hips, where many people carry the majority of their weight. For this reason, a firmer topper will provide better pressure relief for people who weigh more than 230 pounds. Softer toppers will contour more closely to people who weigh less than 130 pounds, and this can also reduce pressure points.
Frequently Asked Questions About Memory Foam Mattress Toppers
We generally recommend choosing a mattress topper size based on the size of your current mattress. Many toppers are equipped with corner straps or ties that help to stabilize the layer and prevent it from shifting during the night. That said, you may want to consider a topper with a smaller size if you and your sleep partner have different firmness preferences; this allows both of you to feel equally comfortable.
Memory foam can be permanently damaged in a washer and dryer, so you should never attempt to launder these items in household machines. Spot clean with water and mild detergent if spills or stains occur on the foam. Thankfully, many memory foam toppers come with removable covers that are machine washable. In some cases, the covers are also made from antimicrobial materials that help prevent the spread of dust mites, mold, and other allergens that can make the topper less hygienic. If the cover is made of cotton or other natural fibers, then it may shrink a bit after the first laundry cycle; you may want to tumble dry on low heat or air dry to prevent excessive sinkage.
When not in use, we recommend storing your memory foam topper in a cool, dry place where it won’t be exposed to extreme temperatures or humidity. This helps to cut down on mold and mildew, as well as dust mite infestation. For added protection, you can invest in a zippered cover to fit around the topper when you aren’t using it. If you use the topper every night, then be sure to clean the cover on a regular basis.
If you’d like to get rid of your topper, consider donating it to a charitable organization in your city or town. Like mattresses and other bedding accessories, toppers are in high demand and will be accepted at most donation outlets. You can also recycle the topper rather than tossing it into a landfill. If your sleep trial for the topper has not expired, contact the manufacturer to see if an exchange or refund is available. You may also qualify for a free replacement topper if it has developed a defect and the warranty hasn’t expired.
While a memory foam topper is intended to reduce aches and pressure points, the wrong model can actually exacerbate your discomfort if you experience frequent back pain. If the topper is too soft, then you may sink too much and feel more pain in the shoulders, lower back, or hips – especially if you weigh more than 230 pounds. Alternately, toppers that feel too firm can cause more back pain for people who weigh less than 130 pounds. If you feel back pain while using a topper, then it may be time to replace it – and possibly your mattress, as well. You may also want to choose a topper with a different firmness level if excessive softness or firmness is to blame for the new back pain.
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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