Our team at Sleep Foundation performs hands-on pillow tests to bring you the most helpful and data-driven recommendations and reviews. Our testing methodology incorporates objective and subjective evaluations from our expert testers. Below are some guidelines that inform our testing process:
Testers lie on each pillow to evaluate cushioning, support, and overall feel. We test each pillow in different sleep positions to determine if the pillow is better suited for side, back, or stomach sleepers. We closely handle the pillows to evaluate loft and moldability, and we use thermal sensors to measure heat retention.
Our testers represent a wide range of sleep positions, body types, and personal sleep references. This helps ensure that our pillow reviews and recommendations will reflect as wide a range of sleepers as possible.
Each member of our testing team has extensive experience in the sleep product industry. We draw on our in-depth knowledge to bring you the most trustworthy pillow recommendations.
Sleepyhead offers two mattress toppers that are both designed with college students in mind, though the toppers are also available in dimensions other than the traditional twin XL dorm bed size.
The company focuses solely on mattress toppers and includes two products within its line, the Sleepyhead Copper Mattress Topper and the Sleepyhead Gel Mattress Topper. Both are made from memory foam and designed to offer sleepers pressure relief and enhanced comfort without trapping too much heat. Each topper comes with a dorm-friendly washable cover that attaches directly to your mattress to prevent it from shifting or falling off.
We’ll discuss how well the Copper Mattress Topper fared during our performance testing and explain who we think is best suited to this model. You’ll learn about its materials, price-point, and pros and cons. We’ll also provide information to find the best mattress topper and help you determine which of Sleepyhead’s products is right for your individual needs and sleep habits.
Mattress Topper Performance Ratings
When choosing a mattress topper, you should consider what factors you’re looking to change about your current sleep setup, then choose a topper that addresses those concerns. Some toppers can extend your mattress’ lifespan, while others alleviate pressure or help cushion joints.
Overall, our team found that the Sleepyhead Copper Mattress Topper is a good all-around choice for people who want a model that relieves pressure while enhancing comfort. There were a few differences between the 2-inch and 3-inch models, allowing shoppers to pick the version that best matches their needs.
The 2-inch topper is a better fit for people who want a balanced feel that offers a bit of conforming, rather than deep cushioning. Those who want maximum pressure relief will prefer the 3-inch model’s increased compression and impact absorption.
Memory foam typically sleeps hotter than other materials, but this topper has an added copper infusion that aims to combat heat retention. Both versions offer decent temperature control but the 2-inch model has above-average cooling, especially for a memory foam topper.
Durability
4
/ 5
This topper achieved above-average scores during our durability testing trials. The memory foam holds up decently to wear and tear and it is more durable than some polyfoam toppers we’ve tested. The average lifespan of a topper is 3 to 5 years, and we expect this model to fall on the longer end of that range. If you purchase this topper for college, it should last through most or all of the college years. A 5-year manufacturer’s warranty protects your purchase if you notice premature sagging or wear and tear.
Conforming
4
/ 5
2-inch: 3 / 5
3-inch: 4 / 5
There was a slight difference in performance when we tested the two different topper profiles. People who want maximum conforming should choose the 3-inch model, which adapts to sleepers’ bodies a bit better than the 2-inch topper does.
Temperature Control
4
/ 5
The copper infusion within this topper is designed to counteract memory foam’s tendency to trap heat. Another thermoregulating component is the cover, which is designed to reduce heat buildup and feel cool to the touch at all times. This is a good option for those seeking a cooling mattress topper that also contours to the body and alleviates pressure.
Motion Isolation
3
/ 5
If you add this topper to your mattress, it may help isolate some movement but it won’t entirely prevent motion transfer. The memory foam traps some movement but it’s not quite thick enough to absorb all motion. If you tend to wake easily from your partner shifting, you may want to consider a topper that’s a bit thicker or pair this model with a motion-isolating memory foam mattress.
Sex
3
/ 5
2-inch: 3 / 5
3-inch: 2 / 5
Many couples want a surface with bounce and consistent support that extends from edge to edge. The 2-inch topper achieves these goals better than the 3-inch topper does, though neither option is ideal for intimacy. The memory foam is designed to compress, which can make it tough for couples to move around without sinking a bit. If a topper for sex is important to you, consider a model made from latex, which is a bit more responsive than memory foam.
Off-Gassing and Odor Potential
Chemicals combine and release during the polyfoam and viscoelastic (memory) foam manufacturing processes. While most of these components dissipate by the time the topper reaches consumers, there are trace chemicals that remain in the foam. When you unseal and unroll a topper or mattress that contains foam, these chemicals release into the air in a process called off-gassing.
This process is generally not considered harmful, and many companies use foam with low volatile organic compound (VOC) levels that are certified by a third party. Though these chemicals shouldn’t affect your health, they do have an unpleasant odor.
If you’re concerned about off-gassing, you can opt for a mattress made from natural materials like latex or wool, though these options may require special laundering or have other scents specific to their makeup.
The memory foam within the Sleepyhead Copper Mattress Topper off-gasses and has a distinct scent. We recommend unrolling your topper in a well-ventilated room and waiting 24 to 72 hours to allow the smell to dissipate.
Cleaning and Care
Each manufacturer typically has specific instructions that dictate how to care for their toppers.
The Sleepyhead Copper Mattress Topper has a removable, machine-washable cover. The manufacturer recommends not using an additional protector because the double layers can trap excess moisture and lead to mildew. You should not machine wash the mattress topper itself.
Sleeping Style and Body Weight
Side Sleepers
Side sleepers on our testing team liked this topper overall, but largely preferred the 3-inch model over the 2-inch version. The thicker topper has top-notch conforming, which is an important factor for side sleepers. The memory foam adapts to each sleeper’s unique shape to absorb impact and disperse weight. It effectively prevented pressure point build-up beneath the hips and shoulders and was especially well-suited to sleepers weighing under 230 pounds.
The 2-inch model was also comfortable for those under 230 pounds, but its thinner profile allowed less room for compression and pressure relief. Overall, this topper is a nice choice for side sleepers, but if you want a topper that enhances your mattress’ pressure relief, you should choose the 3-inch model over the 2-inch.
Back Sleepers
People who sleep on their backs typically enjoy a surface that alleviates discomfort beneath the lower back while keeping their spine aligned. This can be a tricky balance to maintain, but some of our testers reported that this topper achieved it.
Both the 2-inch and 3-inch versions offered solid comfort for back sleepers between 130 and 230 pounds, however, the medium soft (4) feel lacks the structure preferred by those in this weight range. Back sleepers under 130 pounds found the 3-inch model’s cushioning quite comfortable and scored this model highly as a result.
In general, people over 230 pounds need more support than those under 230 pounds. Back sleepers within this weight group found both profile options too soft to cushion while aligning their spines.
Stomach Sleepers
The medium soft (4) firmness level is not quite firm enough to win over most stomach sleepers. If you sleep on your stomach, you need an even surface that’s strong enough to prevent you from sinking into the mattress. One that’s too soft can allow your spine to curve and give you the feeling that you’re trapped in the bed.
In our sleep lab, this model offered enough support that stomach sleepers under 130 pounds found it generally comfortable, but it wasn’t firm enough for our testers to give either the 2-inch or 3-inch versions above-average marks. Both options were too soft for stomach sleepers weighing above 130 pounds, who would have preferred a model with stronger support.
The Sleepyhead Copper Mattress Topper features memory foam that has a copper infusion designed to keep sleepers a comfortable temperature. You can purchase the topper in either 2-inch or 3-inch profiles, which offer slightly different feels and performances. Both options are made from the same CertiPUR-US certified memory foam that’s ventilated to increase airflow potential.
In our sleep lab, this model stood out as an excellent option for a few specific sleeper types including side sleepers under 230 pounds and hot sleepers who prefer memory foam. It’s also a great pick for people looking for a dorm mattress topper, as it’s relatively affordable and available in a twin XL size.
The topper has an included removable and washable cover with adjustable corner straps and a non-slip bottom, enabling you to fasten this topper to any mattress and use it without experiencing significant slippage.
Materials and Construction
The Sleepyhead Copper Mattress Topper is one solid layer of ventilated memory foam that includes a copper infusion. It’s available in both 2-inch and 3-inch thickness profiles that feature the same general construction and materials. The memory foam compresses and adapts to your shape to offer pressure relief and joint cushioning.
Sleepyhead also offers this topper with a gel infusion instead of copper. It offers many of the same benefits as the copper topper and is a bit more affordable.
It includes a washable cover that comes with adjustable corner straps. Shoppers can purchase this topper in five size options including twin XL and full XL. The twin XL model is the only size that comes in both 2-inch and 3-inch heights. This topper is not available in sizes larger than queen.
Product
Size Options
Cover Material
Topper Material
Sleepyhead Copper Topper
Twin: 38” x 75” x 3” Twin XL: 38” x 75” x 2” Twin XL: 38” x 80” x 3” Full: 53” x 75” x 3” Full XL: 53” x 80” x 3” Queen: 60” x 80” x 3”
Polyester
Copper-Infused Memory Foam
Sleepyhead Gel Topper
Twin: 38” x 75” x 3” Twin XL: 38” x 75” x 2” Twin XL: 38” x 80” x 3” Full: 53” x 75” x 3” Full XL: 53” x 80” x 3” Queen: 60” x 80” x 3”
Polyester
Gel-Infused Memory Foam
Pricing Information
Sleepyhead offers two memory foam toppers that are available in the same size options. One has a copper infusion and a medium soft (4) firmness level, while the other has a medium (5) feel and a gel infusion. The Sleepyhead Copper Mattress Topper has a slightly higher price-point than the Sleepyhead Gel Mattress Topper.
Our testing determined that these two toppers have about the same durability and should have similar lifespans. Because their quality and price-points are comparable, these two options have a similar value. When choosing between the two, pick the option that offers the best performance for sleepers in your weight group and sleeping position.
You can find the Sleepyhead Copper Mattress Topper in brick-and-mortar stores as well as online. Several large retailers sell this topper including Amazon, Home Depot, Wayfair, and Walmart. You can also buy it directly on the company’s website.
Shipping
Shipping policies vary by retailer, though the topper comes sealed in plastic, rolled, and compressed into a box regardless of where you purchase it from.
Those who buy their mattress directly from Sleepyhead receive free shipping.
To use your topper, carefully cut the plastic and allow it to expand on your mattress.
Trial
If you purchase your topper from Sleepyhead, you’ll receive a 90-night sleep trial that begins upon delivery. Returns are free and the company will issue a full refund as long as you ship your topper back within 14 days of beginning the return process.
You can also purchase Re:Do protection, which grants unlimited exchanges and store credit.
Warranty
Each topper purchase from Sleepyhead’s website comes with a “Good Till Graduation” warranty that is meant to span a student’s time in college. It covers material defects and craftsmanship errors for 5 years. Toppers bought from third parties may not include this same warranty.
Still have questions?
Our product experts have extensive experience testing just about every sleep product on the market. Send an email to [email protected] or call us at (877) 672-8966 with your questions and we’ll help you find exactly what you’re looking for.
