When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Products or services may be offered by an affiliated entity. Learn more.
Best Twin XL Mattress Toppers
A mattress topper is an affordable way to switch up the firmness of your current bed. This sleep accessory acts as an additional comfort layer, resting on top of your existing mattress to adjust the comfort level and improve features like motion isolation and temperature regulation. It can also help reduce normal wear and tear to your mattress.
Shoppers with a twin XL bed may notice that topper selections are limited in this size, as queen and king sizes beds are more popular. However, there are several standout options available.
We’ll break down our top picks to help you find the best twin XL mattress topper for your sleep position, comfort preferences, and budget. We’ll also highlight important considerations for shoppers, explain the different types of toppers available, and answer commonly asked questions.
The Best Twin XL Mattress Toppers
-
Best Dorm Mattress Topper – Sleepyhead Copper Topper
View Details
-
Best Pressure Relief – Puffy Mattress Topper
View Details
-
Best for Back Pain – PlushBeds Natural Latex Topper
View Details
-
Best Cooling – Birch Plush Organic Mattress Topper
View Details
Swipe for more
Best Overall
Helix GlacioTex Premium Mattress Topper
8.8 /10
Test Lab Score
Use this link for the most current Helix discounts
Use this link for the most current Helix discounts
The GlacioTex Premium Mattress Topper from Helix delivers excellent cushioning thanks to its sophisticated, three-layer build. A cooling cover and thick corner straps add to the thoughtful design.
Price
$499
Material
1.5″ polyfoam, .75″ microcoils, 1.5″ high-density polyfoam
Firmness
Medium Soft (4), Medium Firm (6)
Full Details
Once a simple sleep accessory, the mattress topper has evolved over the years as brands build on the straightforward concept with extra design features. Case in point: the Helix GlacioTex Premium Mattress Topper, one of the most sophisticated and thoughtfully designed toppers our team has tested. Foam and microcoil layers create a plush, pressure-relieving surface that will greatly improve the feel of any mattress, while the cooling cover should definitely appeal to hot sleepers.
The topper’s first layer consists of adaptive polyfoam that molds to your figure without the “hugging” effect of traditional memory foam. Pocketed microcoils provide extra cushioning as well as support and bounce, while dense base foam stabilizes the topper to help prevent shifting. Thick corner straps also help secure the topper to your mattress and prevent it from sliding when you change sleep positions.
For the cover, Helix uses GlacioTex fabric. This material dissipates body heat on contact and feels cool to the touch at all times. Our hands-on tests show the topper offers better temperature control than most competing foam models sold today. We also found the topper suitable for a wide range of sleeper types thanks to two firmness levels. Side and back sleepers under 130 pounds should consider the medium soft (4) option, which provides a deep contour from head to toe, while those who weigh more will probably prefer the more supportive medium firm (6) design.
Although the GlacioTex Premium Mattress Topper is on the expensive side, Helix helps sweeten the deal with free ground shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. and a generous 100-night trial and return period. If you ultimately decide to keep the topper, your purchase is further backed by a one-year manufacturer’s warranty.
Best Dorm Mattress Topper
Sleepyhead Copper Topper
8.5 /10
Test Lab Score
$100 off twin and twin XL Copper Toppers with code: ACOPPER100
$100 off twin and twin XL Copper Toppers with code: ACOPPER100
The Sleepyhead Copper Topper offers instant plushness for dorm beds that have grown too worn or lumpy. With two thickness options to choose from, you’ll receive ample cushioning and pressure relief from the all-foam design.
Price
$299
Material
2-3″ memory foam (copper-infused)
Firmness
Medium Soft (4)
Full Details
College students who reside in dorms are great candidates for mattress toppers. Dorm mattresses are often used, sometimes to the point of feeling uneven or lumpy on the surface, so a topper can improve the sleeper’s overall comfort. The Sleepyhead Copper Topper can assist students with mattress issues. Those shopping for a twin XL topper can choose between 2- and 3-inch profiles. The latter is more suitable for heavily used mattresses, while the shorter model provides a noticeable comfort adjustment for mattresses with some wear and tear.
Both versions of the topper are constructed using solid memory foam infused with copper fibers intended to draw heat away from your body and help you stay cool while you sleep. The foam is encased in a breathable polyester cover for added temperature control. The cover can be removed and laundered in any washer and dryer, so any student should be able to easily clean it regardless of the specific machines in their dorm.
Thanks to its medium soft (4) feel, the topper should also be comfortable for anyone who wakes up with pain or soreness in the shoulders, lower back, or hips. The foam contours evenly without feeling too soft, creating a balance of cushioning and support. Our testing found the topper is best suited to side and back sleepers who weigh up to 230 pounds.
Approachable price-points and free shipping across the contiguous U.S. make the Copper Topper budget-friendly option for students. All orders include a 60-night sleep trial. Those who keep the topper also receive a 5-year manufacturer’s warranty against certain structural defects.
Best Value
ViscoSoft Select High Density Mattress Topper
8.5 /10
Test Lab Score
25% off + free shipping
25% off + free shipping
The ViscoSoft Select High Density Mattress Topper offers excellent pressure relief and an approachable price-point — making it a great all-around topper for anyone wishing to make their bed surface plusher and more comfortable.
Price
$225
Material
2-4″ gel-Infused memory foam
Firmness
Medium Firm (6)
Full Details
ViscoSoft’s Select High Density Mattress Topper uses gel-infused memory foam that closely contours the body to alleviate pressure buildup in the joints. The gel infusion and small perforated holes are meant to reduce heat buildup, keeping the topper cooler than many other foam models. Customers can also choose to add a cooling charcoal or calming lavender infusion to the memory foam.
The cover is made from bamboo-derived rayon, a naturally breathable fabric that regulates temperature on the surface. Mesh on the bottom of the cover facilitates more airflow, and elastic bands allow you to secure the topper to your mattress. The cover is fully removable and machine-washable for easy care. The topper has a medium (5) feel that balances cushioning and support, appealing to many types of sleepers. Shoppers can pick from a 2-inch and 3-inch option. Both options are similarly plush, but the thicker model adjusts the feel of your mattress more significantly.
Our testers found the topper a solid choice for side sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds and back sleepers who weigh under 130 pounds. The thicker memory foam construction significantly reduces pressure in the hips and shoulders, while the mid-range firmness is supportive enough to promote spinal alignment. The foam layer is also excellent at absorbing movement and noise, which is perfect for couples who are frequently disturbed by their partner changing positions at night.
ViscoSoft offers a 90-night sleep trial for shoppers to try out mattress toppers. Select High Density Mattress Toppers are backed by a 5-year warranty, and the company ships free to customers in the contiguous U.S.
Best for Side Sleepers
Silk & Snow Organic Mattress Topper
9.3 /10
Test Lab Score
Use this link for the most current Silk & Snow discounts
Use this link for the most current Silk & Snow discounts
The Silk & Snow Organic Mattress Topper is made of latex that gently cradles your body to relieve pressure buildup in the shoulders, hips, spine, and other sensitive areas. You can also choose between two firmness levels to ensure you’re getting the amount of pressure relief you need.
Price
$270
Material
2″ GOLS-certified organic Dunlop latex
Firmness
Medium (5), Firm (7)
Full Details
If your mattress feels lumpy or uneven on the surface, there’s a good chance you’ll experience pressure buildup in the shoulders, back, or hips. A mattress topper can be a temporary remedy for this issue as long as it delivers even support. The Silk & Snow Organic Mattress Topper contains Dunlop latex, a dense and durable material that resists sagging and indentations better than foam. Latex is also naturally responsive, so the topper will produce a light bounce when you get into bed that helps you move across the surface with ease.
Two firmness levels are available for the topper. The medium (5) feel offers close contouring and cushioning, making this firmness option best suited to side sleepers. People who primarily sleep on their sides can benefit from extra padding for the shoulders and hips. If you are a back or stomach sleeper, then the firm (7) feel may be more comfortable – these positions generally require more support around the midsection. Both designs measure 2 inches thick.
The cover is made of breathable organic cotton and the latex does not absorb much heat, so the topper is a good choice for hot sleepers. Eco-conscious individuals should also find the topper appealing because the cotton and latex have earned certifications from the Global Organic Textile Standard and Global Organic Latex Standard, respectively. These credentials ensure the materials have been evaluated for sustainable sourcing and production using rigorous standards. You can remove and launder the cover in your household machines, but the latex should only be spot cleaned as needed.
The Organic Mattress Topper is competitively priced, and Silk & Snow offers free shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. and provincial Canada. Each order comes with a 100-night trial period. Those who keep their topper also receive a 3-year warranty for the latex and a 1-year warranty for the cover.
Best Pressure Relief
Puffy Mattress Topper
8.5 /10
Test Lab Score
Get 15% off
Get 15% off
The Puffy Mattress Topper contains 2.5 inches of memory foam, which is an optimal material for side sleepers who need strong cushioning for the hips and shoulders. You can choose between a soft or firm model, depending on your body type.
Price
$245
Material
2.5″ memory foam
Firmness
Soft (3), Firm (7)
Full Details
Memory foam toppers are considered one of the best options for sleepers who feel sharp pressure points in the shoulders, lower back, and hips – an issue that is particularly common for side sleepers. The Puffy Mattress Topper features a core of solid memory foam that contours evenly to promote spinal alignment and minimize pressure buildup in these sensitive areas. Those who want deep conforming should select a soft (3) feel for the topper, while side sleepers who need more support – as well as back and stomach sleepers – may want to opt for the firm (7) feel instead.
Memory foam has a tendency to trap heat, but the topper mitigates this problem with a breathable cover composed of polyester and breathable rayon derived from bamboo. The cover is fully machine washable, allowing you to easily keep the topper clean. Unlike other topper covers, this one also has an elasticated border with deep pockets that can be tucked around the corners of your mattress much like a fitted sheet. The bottom surface is equipped with small grooves to prevent shifting or slipping during the night. Thanks to these two features, the topper should stay put during the night – even if you tend to toss and turn or constantly shift between sleep positions.
The Puffy Mattress Topper is competitively priced for a memory foam model and all customers in the 50 U.S. states qualify for free shipping. A 101-night sleep trial is included with each order, ensuring plenty of time to test out the topper and decide whether it’s right for you. You’ll also receive a lifetime warranty should you choose to keep it.
Best Luxury
Saatva Graphite Memory Foam Mattress Topper
8.6 /10
Test Lab Score
Use this link for the most current Saatva discounts
Use this link for the most current Saatva discounts
The Saatva Graphite Mattress Topper has a luxurious feel that we attribute to the thick foam design. The dual-layer composition features plush memory foam on the surface, which really enhances the cushioned feel when you lie on top.
Price
$295
Material
1″ graphite-infused memory foam, 2″ memory foam
Firmness
Medium Soft (4)
Full Details
The Saatva Graphite Mattress Topper is a thick memory foam topper with a luxurious plush feel. The topper conforms closely to your body and excels at pressure relief, so we recommend it for sleepers who enjoy the “hug” of memory foam or experience painful pressure buildup on their mattress.
The top layer consists of memory foam infused with graphite, which has natural cooling properties and can reduce the heat buildup that commonly occurs with this material. The second layer is a denser foam for added support. The profile is 3 inches, making this Saatva’s thickest topper, and its medium soft (4) feel should appeal to side and back sleepers who weigh 230 pounds or less. The topper is mid-range in terms of pricing.
The topper has an organic cotton cover that helps regulate the surface temperature. It is also equipped with elastic corner bands that hold the topper in place and prevent shifting, so it will be suitable for people who toss and turn or frequently adjust their sleep position. Since the foam absorbs most motion transfer, the topper is also a good choice if you experience sleep disruptions from a restless co-sleeper.
Saatva offers a 180-night sleep trial and 1-year warranty for each topper, and shipping is free throughout the contiguous U.S.
Best for Back Pain
PlushBeds Natural Latex Topper
8.9 /10
Test Lab Score
Use this link for the most current PlushBeds discounts
Use this link for the most current PlushBeds discounts
Few toppers offer the variety of firmness options that are available with the PlushBeds Natural Latex Topper. You can choose between five firmness models, and each also comes in a 2-inch or 3-inch option as well.
Price
$445
Material
2-3″ natural Talalay latex
Firmness
Soft (3), Medium Soft (4), Medium (5), Medium Firm (6), Extra Firm (8)
Full Details
No mattress topper is universally comfortable, but the PlushBeds Natural Latex Topper offers enough design options to accommodate most people regardless of their body type, sleep position, or personal preferences. You can choose from four firmness levels, each of which offers a distinct feel and support level, as well as 2-inch or 3-inch profiles depending on how worn out your mattress is.
All versions of the topper are constructed using natural latex. This highly durable material responds to movement, making it bouncier and easier to move across than adaptive foam. The latex is ventilated with large holes to promote airflow and reduce heat retention, allowing you to sleep cool. You can add a breathable organic cotton cover to your purchase for a small upcharge for extra temperature control.
After testing this topper, we found the soft (3) and medium soft (4) feels best suited to side and back sleepers weighing less than 130 pounds. These sleepers can benefit from extra cushioning around the shoulders and hips, but shouldn’t sink excessively due to their weight. The medium (5) and medium firm (6) feels are more balanced, contouring gently while providing adequate support for anyone up to 230 pounds regardless of their sleep position. We recommend the firm (8) feel to back and stomach sleepers weighing more than 230 pounds due to the extra reinforcement.
The 2-inch profile is a good option if your mattress has moderate impressions. For heavily worn sleep surfaces, the 3-inch topper should provide a significant comfort adjustment. Latex’s above-average longevity helps ensure you can use the topper for a considerable length of time before you’ll need to think about replacing your mattress for good.
Prices for Natural Latex Toppers in the twin XL size vary by firmness and profile, but all are reasonably priced given the high-quality materials and long-lasting design. PlushBeds also offers free shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. Returns are not accepted, as the topper is considered a personal-use item, so all sales are final, but you’ll receive a warranty with your purchase covering structural defects for up to 5 years.
Best Cooling
Birch Plush Organic Mattress Topper
9.3 /10
Test Lab Score
Use this link for the most current Birch discounts
Use this link for the most current Birch discounts
If cooling is a high priority in your search for a topper, the Birch Organic Mattress Topper is a solid candidate thanks to its latex composition. Latex is a naturally breathable material, so you won’t need to worry about heat retention.
Price
$499
Material
3″ Talalay latex
Firmness
Medium (5)
Full Details
The Birch Organic Mattress Topper is a thoughtfully constructed topper made with high-quality materials. This model stands apart from the competition with its organic and eco-friendly design – and the certifications to back it up.
The topper is 3 inches tall, which is on the thicker side for a topper. It begins with a cover made of organic cotton followed by a layer of organic wool, which creates a plush surface and also acts as a fire retardant layer. The bulk of the topper is composed of Talalay latex, which contours the body but is also firm enough to provide ample support. The latex has GOTS certification to ensure it meets strict organic sourcing standards, and the entire topper is GREENGUARD Gold-certified to show that it contains no harmful VOCs.
With its balance of contouring and support, the topper has a medium (5) feel that suits it well for side and back sleepers. These sleep positions benefit from cradling in the shoulders, hips, and spine, but also need a supportive surface to keep the lower back from sinking in. Hot sleepers should sleep very comfortably on this topper, since latex, wool, and cotton are all naturally breathable.
Birch offers a 100-night sleep trial for customers to try out the topper, with a 10-year warranty for those who decide to keep the topper. Shipping is free to all 50 states.
Best Firmness Options
Turmerry Latex Mattress Topper
9.1 /10
Test Lab Score
Use this link for the most current Turmerry discounts
Use this link for the most current Turmerry discounts
The Turmerry Latex Mattress Topper caters to sleepers who prioritize lumbar support on their bed surface but also need a touch of cushioning for pressure-sensitive areas. You can choose between four firmness levels to find a perfect match for your sleep position and body type.
Price
$239
Material
2-4″ zoned Dunlop latex
Firmness
Soft (3), Medium (5), Medium Firm (6), Firm (7)
Full Details
If you sleep on a well-worn mattress and experience frequent back pain, a topper that cushions your spine and maintains an even surface for your body may help reduce your discomfort. The Turmerry Latex Mattress Topper offers excellent versatility thanks to a wide range of designs, ensuring most people can find a comfortable option regardless of how much they weigh or which sleep position they primarily use.
Three profile options are available. The 2-inch model is somewhat thin and best suited to mattresses with moderate wear and tear. If your mattress has deep impressions or indentations in the surface, we recommend the thicker 3-inch or 4-inch profiles instead. You can also choose between four firmness levels. The soft (3) feel contours closely, and our testing shows this is the most comfortable option for side sleepers and people under 130 pounds. Those who weigh more or sleep on their back or stomach should consider the medium (5) or medium firm (6) feels instead, as these offer more support and won’t sink as much when compressed. You can also choose a firm (7) feel for very gentle contouring.
All toppers are zoned, meaning they feel firmer around the midsection and softer elsewhere. This helps ensure extra reinforcement for areas of the body where people tend to carry more weight, such as the torso and hips. You can choose from two types of latex for the topper. The organic latex has earned certification from the Global Organic Latex Standard, while the natural latex is certified by OEKO-TEX.
Latex is a naturally responsive material, so you’ll notice a light bounce when you get in and out of bed. This helps facilitate movement and prevent feelings of being “trapped” by your mattress when you travel across the surface or change positions during the night. Latex also retains less heat than foam, so the topper is a good choice if you’ve found memory foam or polyfoam toppers too warm. An optional cover made of breathable organic cotton is available at checkout. The cover is sold separately for 2-inch and 3-inch toppers, and included with 4-inch toppers. Turmerry recommends purchasing the machine-washable cover to keep the topper hygienic, as latex can only be spot cleaned.
Shipping is free for customers within the contiguous U.S. Each order includes a 60-night trial and returns are free within this window. Should you decide to keep the topper, you’ll receive a manufacturer’s warranty covering structural defects for up to 10 years.
Best Sleep Solution for Guests
Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Adapt Topper
8.6 /10
Test Lab Score
Get 40% off with code TOPPERS40
Get 40% off with code TOPPERS40
The proprietary foam in the Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Adapt Topper offers strong cushioning but is dense enough to ensure your house guests won’t sink to the bottom of the topper. It gives sleepers a gentle body-hugging surface without going overboard.
Price
$419
Material
3″ TEMPUR memory foam
Firmness
Medium (5)
Full Details
The Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Topper Supreme has a lightweight design and thicker profile, making it a solid portable sleep surface. Sleepers who frequently camp or host guests may want to consider this pick.
A quilted polyester cover encases the topper, giving the surface a soft feel. The cover is fully removable and machine-washable for easy care and cleanup. The core consists of proprietary TEMPUR memory foam that closely contours the body to relieve pressure buildup. Foam is excellent at absorbing movement transfer and noise, making the topper perfect for co-sleepers who are frequently disturbed by their partner’s movement at night.
The thick 3-inch profile and medium (5) feel performed well among our team’s side and back sleepers, particularly those weighing up to 230 pounds. Customers who own older mattresses should also find the topper helps correct the feel of deep impressions. Tempur-Pedic offers free shipping to customers living in the contiguous U.S. No sleep trial is available, but each TEMPUR-Topper Supreme is backed by a generous 10-year warranty.
Best Overall
Helix GlacioTex Premium Mattress Topper
8.8 /10
Test Lab Score
Use this link for the most current Helix discounts
Shop at HelixA plush, pressure-relieving topper constructed with adaptive foam and microcoil layers.
See More Details
Best Dorm Mattress Topper
Sleepyhead Copper Topper
8.5 /10
Test Lab Score
$100 off twin and twin XL Copper Toppers with code: ACOPPER100
Shop at SleepyheadAn adaptive, foam-cushioned topper ideal for dorm dwellers.
See More Details
Best Value
ViscoSoft Select High Density Mattress Topper
8.5 /10
Test Lab Score
25% off + free shipping
Shop at ViscoSoftA plush foam topper available in a wide range of profiles to accommodate different mattresses.
See More Details
Best for Side Sleepers
Silk & Snow Organic Mattress Topper
9.3 /10
Test Lab Score
Use this link for the most current Silk & Snow discounts
Shop at Silk & SnowA latex topper with a responsive feel, exceptional breathability, and good lasting power.
See More Details
Best Pressure Relief
Puffy Mattress Topper
8.5 /10
Test Lab Score
Get 15% off
Shop at PuffyA pressure-relieving foam topper available in soft and firm designs for different sleeper types.
See More Details
Best Luxury
Saatva Graphite Memory Foam Mattress Topper
8.6 /10
Test Lab Score
Use this link for the most current Saatva discounts
Shop at SaatvaA luxe topper made of dense memory foam infused with graphite for extra cooling.
See More Details
Best for Back Pain
PlushBeds Natural Latex Topper
8.9 /10
Test Lab Score
Use this link for the most current PlushBeds discounts
Shop at PlushBedsA durable topper made of ventilated, sustainably sourced latex that holds up well over time.
See More Details
Best Cooling
Birch Plush Organic Mattress Topper
9.3 /10
Test Lab Score
Use this link for the most current Birch discounts
Shop at BirchA long-lasting topper with exceptional cooling thanks to breathable latex and moisture-wicking wool.
See More Details
Best Firmness Options
Turmerry Latex Mattress Topper
9.1 /10
Test Lab Score
Use this link for the most current Turmerry discounts
Shop at TurmerryA resilient latex topper available in a wide range of profiles and firmness levels.
See More Details
Best Sleep Solution for Guests
Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Adapt Topper
8.6 /10
Test Lab Score
Get 40% off with code TOPPERS40
Shop at Tempur-PedicA plush topper made from durable TEMPUR foam that excels at pressure relief and motion isolation.
See More Details
How to Choose a Twin XL Mattress Topper
A mattress topper is a thick layer, typically measuring 1 to 4 inches, that you can place on top of your mattress to supplement its comfort. Toppers help provide additional softness, firmness, or cooling properties to your bed, and can also help extend the life of your current mattress. Due to their additional length, twin XL toppers are useful for modifying a single bed for an adult or one side of a California king bed for couples with different comfort preferences.
Not all brands that carry mattress toppers offer the twin XL size, so shoppers may find their choices are limited. When comparing available models, shoppers should consider factors that may affect performance, like firmness, thickness, and quality of construction. We’ll break down these and other factors to help shoppers find the right fit.
What to Consider When Purchasing a Twin XL Mattress Topper
Shopping for new bedding isn’t always straightforward. Mattress companies often market their products to appeal to as many shoppers as possible, but each person has unique needs and preferences. Focusing on your distinct priorities, in addition to performance factors, will help you find a twin XL mattress topper that best suits your needs.
Price
The average twin XL topper costs between $75 and $250. A higher price often means better materials, but the topper with the highest price-point isn’t always the best choice. Many high-quality, comfortable mattress toppers can be found in the middle and lower end of the average price range. Customer reviews can be a useful resource for deciding whether a certain topper represents a good value for the price, though shoppers should keep in mind that these reviews are subjective.
Sleeping Position
Your preferred sleep position will impact the level of firmness you need from your mattress topper. Side sleeping often causes pressure points to develop, but a softer topper may help cushion the hips and shoulders while supporting proper spinal alignment. Back and stomach sleepers usually need a firmer topper to prevent the midsection from sinking in too deeply. Most mattress toppers are designed to create a softer sleep surface, but this will depend on the firmness of the topper and your existing mattress.
Quality Materials
A topper’s materials will affect how it performs in terms of pressure relief, durability, and temperature regulation. A memory foam topper is often ideal for pressure relief, but some can sleep hot and develop impressions over time. However, many companies engineer their foam mattresses and accessories to improve upon these weaknesses. Open-cell and gel-infused foams are designed to help a mattress topper sleep cool, while higher density foams may offer better durability. Latex mattress toppers are often highly durable and breathable.
Cooling Properties
Many mattress toppers are designed with cooling properties. If your current mattress retains heat, a cooling mattress topper can help keep you cooler at night without the need to buy a new mattress. Gel-infused foam, open-cell foam, and breathable, natural materials are intended to help fight heat buildup, wick away sweat, and keep sleepers more comfortable throughout the night.
Firmness Level
The ideal firmness level will depend on your current mattress. The majority of mattress toppers come in a soft, medium soft, or medium firmness level. These toppers are often designed to provide additional pressure relief by softening a firm mattress. If your current mattress is too soft, a firm topper may be a suitable option to provide additional support.
Thickness
Mattress toppers typically measure between 1 to 4 inches thick. Keep in mind that thicker toppers will have a larger impact on comfort, as they can substantially alter the firmness of the sleep surface. Thinner toppers can be used to slightly adjust the existing mattress without affecting the amount of support it provides.
Pressure Relief
How well your sleep surface hugs the contours of your body will determine how much pressure relief it provides for the hips and shoulders. If your current mattress is too firm, a conforming mattress topper may help provide much-needed pressure relief.
Your sleep position and body weight can impact how much pressure relief you need. A soft topper may provide excellent contouring for a sleeper who weighs under 130 pounds, while someone over 230 pounds will likely require firmer support.
Which Type of Mattress Topper Should I Choose?
The right mattress topper for you will largely depend on your comfort preferences, personal needs, and budget. Mattress toppers are available in a variety of different materials, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
Polyfoam
One of the most widely available types of mattress toppers, polyfoam toppers are affordable and versatile. As with all types of foam, polyfoam has the ability to cradle your body while still providing ample support. However, long term durability can be an issue with some foam-based toppers.
Memory Foam
Memory foam toppers offer closer contouring than polyfoam models. Although this results in excellent pressure relief, it also means that memory foam has a tendency to trap body heat. Memory foam toppers may include special features, such as gel infusions or breathable covers, that are designed to help prevent heat retention.
Latex
Latex mattress toppers tend to sleep cool while still offering excellent pressure relief. Latex is buoyant and responsive, making it easier to move around on your sleep surface. However, latex toppers are often more expensive than other models.
Feather and Down
Feather and down toppers are luxury options that add softness to the sleep surface. Down toppers can give your mattress a plush, pillow-top feel, but they do not offer much in the way of pressure relief or additional support. High-quality down can also be expensive. Feather toppers are often more affordable than down toppers, and they tend to have more structure.
Wool
Wool mattress toppers provide a soft, cushioning comfort layer that helps regulate temperature and wick away moisture. Wool is an excellent insulator and incredibly durable. Similar to other natural materials, wool tends to be more expensive than foam-based toppers.
Frequently Asked Questions
While it’s possible to use a twin topper on a twin XL mattress, it’s not recommended. A standard twin mattress is only 75 inches long, but a twin XL is 80 inches long. When placed on a twin XL mattress, a twin mattress topper is going to come up 5 inches short. This may not be an issue if you’re on the shorter side, or if the pad will be used in a child’s bed, but for most adults, the twin topper will be too short.
You can place two twin XL toppers side by side on a king mattress. This allows you to choose two different firmness levels for each side of the mattress if you and your partner have different comfort preferences. However, two toppers on a single mattress are likely to shift as you change positions throughout the night, creating a gap in the middle of the bed.
Mattress sizes are fairly standardized across all manufacturers, but there is often confusion when it comes to the difference between a twin and a twin XL. A twin mattress measures 38 inches wide by 75 inches long. A twin XL is a bit longer, measuring 38 inches wide by 80 inches long. While a twin mattress may be slightly less expensive than a twin XL, it can feel cramped for those who like to stretch out on their mattress or anyone over 6 feet tall.
Twin XL toppers typically range from $75 to $250, depending on the model. Generally, they tend to be slightly more expensive than the same model in a twin size. The price will depend largely on the materials used to make the topper.
Still have questions? Ask our community!
Join our Sleep Care Community — a trusted hub of product specialists, sleep health professionals, and people just like you. Whether you’re searching for the perfect mattress or need expert sleep advice, we’ve got you covered. Get personalized guidance from the experts who know sleep best.