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The Best Mattress Toppers We've Ever Tested

Avoid spending on a new mattress with these comfortable and high-quality picks.

The ViscoSoft Serene Hybrid Mattress Topper on a mattress that's on a bed frame in a room
Photo:

Real Simple / Dera Burreson

If you toss and turn all night due to a lumpy, hard, or too-soft mattress, it may be time to invest in a mattress topper. The right mattress topper can instantly change how your bed feels for a fraction of the price of a new mattress. 

To find the best mattress toppers, we tested 27 models in our Des Moines lab and at home, evaluating them according to comfort, support, durability, breathability, and quality. For expert insight, we spoke to Russell Jelinek, the senior director of engineering, quality, and compliance at Casper; and Sydney DeCesare, the category manager of merchandising at Mattress Firm.

What Stands Out
  • It offers the right amount of firmness and will stay in place while you toss and turn.

What Could Be Improved
  • The foam underside sheds, which may make removing the topper a messy process.

The ViscoSoft 4-Inch Pillow Top Memory Foam Mattress Topper is our top pick due to its comfort and value. The CertiPUR-US certified mattress topper is crafted with 2.5 inches of temperature-neutral gel memory foam and 1.5 inches of down alternative cover for extra support. The material was plush enough that we couldn’t feel the acupressure mat. We also didn’t notice a difference in its loftiness after laying on it, nor did we observe an intense cooling or warming effect, though the mattress topper did feel slightly warmer where we had laid.

This topper’s durability particularly stood out to us. It stayed completely secure on the mattress, even while we tossed and turned, and didn’t make any noise when we switched positions. While it was a bit heavy and difficult to get on the mattress, this heaviness is likely part of what prevented it from shifting on the bed. We also appreciate its removable and washable cover pad, which makes it easy to clean.

After six months of use, the mattress topper is still as comfortable as it was upon arrival, though it does require occasional fluffing. We did find that the foam underside shed a bit, which was the main downside to this topper. Even so, we believe its support, durability, and reasonable price make it a great choice.

Materials: Gel memory foam and down alternative | Thickness: 4 inches | Sizes: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, short queen, king, Cal king

What Stands Out
  • It’s soft, breathable, and comes at an affordable price.

What Could Be Improved
  • It may take time to regain shape after use.

If you’re looking for an inexpensive yet high-quality mattress topper, the Linenspa 2-Inch Memory Foam is an excellent choice. The memory foam is soft and breathable, and the infused cooling gel distributes and regulates body heat throughout the night.

Along with its impressive cooling properties, the mattress topper exceeded our expectations in terms of durability. It stayed secure on the mattress no matter how much we tossed and turned and made no noise. Though it took a bit of time to bounce back after laying on it, it did regain its shape. This mattress topper held up well throughout six months of use, enduring no significant changes in quality. It’s also lightweight, so it's easy for one person to place on the bed. 

Based on our testing, the Linenspa 2-Inch Memory Foam Mattress Topper is the perfect choice for those seeking a convenient, comfortable option that won’t break the bank. Given its reasonable price tag, this pick provides an inexpensive way to enhance your mattress without splurging on an entirely new one. This topper is also CertiPUR-US certified, and its 30-day return policy and 3-year limited warranty are ideal for those hesitant to invest.

Material: Polyurethane, memory foam, gel beads | Thickness: 2 inches | Sizes: Small single, twin, twin XL, full, short queen, queen, king, Cal king

What Stands Out
  • The conforming material is comfortable in all sleeping positions.

What Could Be Improved
  • It doesn’t have any noteworthy cooling properties, and the foam may not be supportive enough for those with joint pain.

If you have the means to spend more on a mattress topper, this Tempur-Pedic option is at the top of our list. We found the mattress topper very soft and plush, and we sank into the material more than we did with other mattress toppers we tested. The material conformed to our curves within minutes with no pressure points, and it was comfortable in all sleeping positions. We didn't notice a significant cooling effect, though, so this pick may be less ideal for hot sleepers.

We were amazed by how supportive the mattress topper was, as we didn’t feel the acupressure mat at all. Since it’s very soft, the mattress topper did take a bit longer to regain its shape after we moved to the other side of the bed. It's also fairly heavy and may require more than one person to put it on the bed. Even so, its Signature Staytight corner straps kept it secure on the mattress regardless of repositioning and didn’t make noise when we moved. It's worth noting that some may find this topper a bit too soft, and it's not the best choice for people who need joint support as they sleep. Still, we think the cloud-like foam is ideal for those looking to make their mattress softer. Plus, it maintained its shape throughout two months of use without flattening.

Thanks to its durability and conforming material, we think this mattress topper would be ideal for sleepers who change positions often throughout the night. It’s also CertiPUR-US certified. While this was one of the most expensive mattress toppers we tested, if you want a high-quality and comfortable solution, this pick is still cheaper than buying an entirely new mattress. The brand also offers a 10-year warranty, but you can only return damaged or defective items via the manufacturer. 

Material: Memory foam | Thickness: 3 inches | Sizes: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, Cal king

What Stands Out
  • The soft, gel-infused memory foam promotes airflow.

What Could Be Improved
  • It doesn't offer much support when sleeping on your stomach.

If you’re searching for a temperature-regulating mattress topper, consider adding the Subrtex 3-Inch Gel Infused Mattress Topper to your list. Crafted with gel-infused memory foam, this ventilated mattress topper is designed to promote airflow. Even those of us who typically sleep hot maintained a cool temperature overnight, making this one of the most breathable mattress toppers we tested. 

We were similarly impressed by how soft it was and found it consistently comfortable on our back and side. However, we noticed it was a bit less supportive when sleeping on our stomach. This mattress topper seemed to improve our sleep routine after just one night of use, and by the six-month mark, the results were even more significant—we felt noticeably more relaxed during bedtime and experienced less lower back pain when we woke up. It does shift a bit on the mattress, though.

Plus, it completely obscured the acupressure mat, and the material did not flatten after we laid on it. Given its cushiony texture, we were impressed to find that the memory foam springs back up after use, regaining its shape within one minute. Plus, it's available in three heights—2-inch, 3-inch, or 4-inch—so you can tailor it to your preferences. This may not be the best choice for stomach sleepers, but for those seeking a cooling, cloud-like option, it's a no brainer.

What Stands Out
  • It has an impressive (and surprising) cooling effect.

What Could Be Improved
  • It isn't silent or very supportive.

As far as down mattress toppers go, Southern Living’s Ultra Feather Mattress Topper stood out in our testing. (Southern Living is owned by Real Simple’s parent company, Dotdash Meredith.) It somehow managed to be both plush yet airy, providing a layer of coziness without too much weight. The mattress topper’s soft material made us feel as though we were laying on a cloud, and the deep gussets kept it in place while we tossed and turned, though we could feel the acupressure pad beneath. 

It was easy to position the mattress pad on the bed—we found it felt more like handling a down comforter than a mattress topper. The mattress topper similarly flattened like a down comforter, though it regained shape as we rolled around. In addition to its cloud-like texture, we were also impressed with its temperature-regulating properties, as it was one of the only toppers we tested that felt noticeably cooler after five minutes. Because it's incredibly soft and plush, it may be less suitable for those who prefer sleeping on firm surfaces.

We've noticed no changes in quality after six months of use, and the mattress topper has maintained its fluffy feel. Its design is easy to care for, and the skirt can fit mattresses of any depth. Since this mattress topper is bulky, it does require a larger washing machine and may take a long time to fully dry. We also noticed a crinkly sound when we moved, which could be inconvenient for sleepers who reposition often throughout the night. Even so, this mattress topper is ideal for hot sleepers seeking a lightweight, breathable option. 

Material: Down and feather fill | Thickness: 2 inches | Sizes: Queen, king, Cal king

What Stands Out
  • It’s plush and consistently comfortable in all sleeping positions.

What Could Be Improved
  • It doesn't offer support, only comfort.

We were amazed by how soft this down alternative mattress topper was, making us feel like we were lying on a cloud. Its dual-chamber design provides cushiony support with two layers of plush microfiber, giving it an extra luxurious feel. The mattress topper was consistently comfortable during our testing, regardless of whether we slept on our back, side, or stomach. While it didn’t necessarily have cooling properties, we found that it stayed neutral in temperature.

We noticed that the volume of the mattress topper only slightly decreased after laying on it, and it regained its shape within a minute after getting up. It was also easy to install—it doesn’t have any straps, so you need to place it on the bed and cover it with a fitted sheet. Since there were no fastening straps, we were hesitant about how secure it would be, yet it managed to stay still (and silent) while we tossed and turned. We did feel the acupressure mat underneath, which might not be ideal for those who want a super supportive mattress pad. Nevertheless, we think its longevity makes it a worthwhile purchase—even after six months of use, the mattress still looks and feels as good as new.

Material: Down alternative feather | Thickness: 3 inches | Sizes: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, Cal king

Best for Stomach Sleepers

Nolah Mattress Topper

Nolah Mattress Topper
PHOTO: Nolah
What Stands Out
  • Its pressure-relieving design is especially comfortable for stomach sleepers.

What Could Be Improved
  • It’s heavy and challenging to get on the bed.

The Nolah Mattress Topper strikes the perfect balance of firmness and softness, providing adequate support without being too stiff or rigid. Its pressure-relieving design takes stress off the joints, and it’s available in two firmness levels (plush or luxury firm) to appeal to all sleep preferences. We found the mattress topper comfortable when sleeping on our back or stomach. We couldn’t feel where the acupressure mat was and noticed that the mattress topper immediately regained shape once we stood up.

Since the mattress topper is heavy, we think it may be difficult for one person to put it on the bed. Once in place, however, it barely moved and made no noise as we repositioned. Be careful when removing your fitted sheet, though, as we found it easy to accidentally pull off the topper’s anchor straps with the sheet. After six months of use, we've observed no loose threads, tears, or stains. However, we found that the mattress does take a bit of time to regain its shape after use, and the four corner traps do get looser with time, sometimes causing the topper to shift.

This mattress topper has CertiPUR-US certification and a 10-year warranty to give you peace of mind before you purchase. The price is on the higher end, but we think the soft texture and luxurious feel make it a worthy investment for those who sleep on their stomach.

Material: Airfoam | Thickness: 2 inches | Sizes: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, Cal king

What Stands Out
  • The firm yet soft material is ideal for side and back sleepers.

What Could Be Improved
  • It lacks the cooling properties advertised.

If you’re a back or side sleeper seeking an affordable yet comfortable mattress topper, consider the Amazon Basics Cooling Gel-Infused Firm Support Mattress Topper. This mattress topper is soft yet firm and comfortable, providing ample support as we slept. We didn't see or feel the acupressure mat or any indentations in the topper, though the area we laid on was a bit warmer than the rest. 

The CertiPUR-US certified mattress topper stayed in place when we tossed and turned and made no noise. It has held up well throughout six months of use with no signs of wear, and we don't plan on getting a new one any time soon. Though relatively lightweight, the large size could make it difficult for one person to situate it on the bed or store it in a small space. Despite the potential difficulty in storage, the mattress topper is below the median price of mattress toppers, making it a budget-friendly choice. 

Material: Latex foam or memory foam | Thickness: 2 or 3 inches | Sizes: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, Cal king

What Stands Out
  • It's available in three thickness levels.

What Could Be Improved
  • It's a bit challenging to get on the mattress, and is prone to shifting.

Thick and cushiony, this 4-inch mattress topper provides both comfort and support. We found the cooling gel-infused memory foam to be soft and sumptuous, allowing us to sink into the material. The foam maintained its volume as we tossed and turned, regaining its shape immediately. It also helped even our weight distribution and relieved pressure points. While we expected the thick foam to be somewhat insulating, this mattress topper surprisingly maintained a comfortable temperature throughout testing. After laying on it for five minutes, we were pleased to find that the spot where we had laid was the same temperature as the untouched areas.

However, since the mattress topper is large and floppy, we found it a bit awkward to physically put on our mattress. Without a gusset, it pretty much just rests on top, leading it to shift as we tossed and turned. Nevertheless, the foam acted as a noise dampener, keeping the mattress silent as we repositioned. We also noticed a few small tears at the two-month mark, though they didn't impact the mattress topper's quality. Now six months into use, the mattress topper is still just as comfortable and supportive as it was on day one.

This mattress topper is available in three thicknesses, ranging from 2 to 4 inches. While it may not be the most durable choice on our list, this CertiPUR-US certified topper does have a 30-day return policy and one-year warranty. Overall, if you're looking for a mattress topper to enhance the cushioning of your current mattress, you can't go wrong with this pick.

Material: Memory foam | Thickness: 2, 3, or 4 inches | Sizes: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king

What Stands Out
  • It regains shape immediately after getting out of bed.

What Could Be Improved
  • It may be too firm for side sleepers.

The Casper Comfy Mattress Topper is the perfect choice for people looking for a firm surface to sleep on, as it combines a plush top layer with a supportive memory foam layer. We found it comfortable when lying on our back, though it was a tad too firm when sleeping on our side. 

The perforated foam layer is breathable and designed to promote air circulation overnight. We did not observe any noteworthy warming or cooling effects, and found that the mattress topper maintained a consistently comfortable temperature during our testing. After six months of use, the mattress topper is still holding up very well.

Since the mattress topper is heavy, it required two people to lift it onto the bed, but once in place, it didn’t shift or make any noise. We also didn’t feel the acupressure mat at all beneath the mattress topper, but we do wish it was a bit thicker. The mattress topper offers a 5-year limited mattress topper warranty and a 30-day return policy via the manufacturer. 

Material: Memory foam | Thickness: 3 inches | Available Sizes: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, Cal king

Final Verdict

The ViscoSoft 4 Inch Pillow Top Memory Foam Mattress Topper is our top pick for its comfort, durability, and value. If you want an affordable pick, we recommend the Linenspa 2-Inch Memory Foam Mattress Topper which has impressive cooling effects.

Tuft & Needle Foam Mattress Topper being tested
REAL SIMPLE / JAY WILDE

Our Testing Process

To find the best mattress toppers, we tested 27 models in our lab and at home, evaluating them according to comfort, support, durability, breathability, and quality. First, we placed an acupressure mat at the head of the mattress where a pillow would typically go, and put the mattress topper on top. We put a fitted sheet over the mattress topper and laid on our stomachs, backs, and sides, observing how comfortable each position was. 

We then tossed and turned in bed five times, noting whether the mattress topper shifted or made any noise. Once we stood up, we compared the temperature of the area we had just laid on to the temperature of the rest of the mattress topper.

Once we removed the fitted sheet, we observed the volume of the mattress topper and noticed if there was any flatness in the spot where we had just laid down. We also lifted up the mattress topper to check for any snags or tears in the area where the acupressure mat was placed. After waiting five minutes, we inspected the mattress topper’s volume to see if where we had laid regained its shape or remained flat, and how its volume compared to other areas of the mattress topper.

For long-term insights, we brought the mattress toppers home to evaluate their real-world performance after two months and six months of use.

Best Mattress Toppers, tester pressing on mattress pad to test firmness
Phoebe Cheong

How to Shop for Mattress Toppers Like a Pro

Material

Mattress toppers are made of various materials, each suitable for different sleep styles. According to Jelinek, choosing the right one is about personal preference. “Some people prefer the cradling feel of memory foam, and others prefer the springy feel of latex foams,” he says. “Regardless, when shopping for a topper, it’s important to look for materials that are high-quality and bear a certification like CertiPUR so you know they are safe.”

DeCesare notes that each material has different benefits. While memory foam offers excellent contouring and pressure relief, latex has a more responsive and supportive feel. She says that feather and down provide a plush, soft service, while gel-infused materials help regulate temperature for hot sleepers. She also mentions that polyester or synthetic materials are typically more affordable with decent comfort, whereas wool is a natural option. 

Thickness

According to DeCesare, mattress toppers are usually between one and four inches thick, the most popular depth being three inches. “The choice of thickness depends on personal preference and the level of comfort and support you desire,” says DeCesare. “Thicker toppers generally offer more cushioning, while thinner ones provide a more subtle change to your mattress feel.”

More Mattress Toppers to Consider

Sleep on Latex Pure Green Natural Latex Mattress Topper: You will sink right into this soft mattress topper, which is comfortable in every position. Unfortunately, it wasn't quite as cooling as we expected, and we weren't fans of the latex smell.

Nest Bedding Cooling Topper: While this easy-to-install mattress topper had the right amount of firmness and cushion, it wasn’t as cooling as its name suggests.

Questions You Might Ask

What’s the difference between a mattress topper, mattress pad, and mattress protector? 

“A mattress topper is typically thicker and designed to add extra comfort and support to your mattress,” says DeCesare. “It's often made of memory foam, latex, or other supportive materials and can significantly change the feel of your mattress.”

In contrast, DeCesare notes that mattress pads are thinner and often use a down or down alternative fiber for comfort fill. “Mattress pads are meant to protect the mattress from spills and stains while also making the mattress feel softer,” says Jelinek. 

Waterproof mattress pads generally fall under the category of mattress protectors, which are waterproof barriers used to protect the mattress from stains, allergens, and general wear and tear, according to DeCesare.

Is a mattress topper worth it? 

Not sure if you should invest in a mattress topper yet? DeCesare says that mattress toppers are “worth it” depending on your personal preferences and the condition of your mattress. “Mattress toppers are worth considering if you want to improve the comfort and support of your existing mattress without investing in a new one,” says DeCesare. “They can help alleviate pressure points, regulate temperature, and extend the lifespan of your mattress.” 

At some point, however, Jelinek says an entirely new mattress could be a better option. “If you are trying to alter the feel of your mattress, a topper is a great, low-cost way to do so,” he says. “If, however, you are trying to get better support, a new mattress is the way to go as a topper won’t impact the base of the mattress where support really comes into play.”

How do you clean a mattress topper?

The cleaning method for your mattress topper depends on its material. DeCesare says that while many toppers come with removable and machine-washable covers, you should always follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer.

“For memory foam or latex toppers, spot cleaning is recommended to prevent damage from excess moisture,” says DeCesare. “Regularly airing out your topper can also help keep it fresh.”

Best Mattress Toppers, tester unzipping the cover of a mattress pad
Phoebe Cheong

Take Our Word for It

This article was written by Jamie Fischer, a commerce writer for Real Simple. To find the best mattress toppers, we tested 27 models in our Lab, evaluating them according to comfort, support, durability, breathability, and quality. To gain insight, she tapped two product professionals, Sydney DeCesare, the category manager of omni-merchandising soft goods and textiles at Mattress Firm, and Russell Jelinek, the senior director of engineering, quality, and compliance at Casper.

What Is Real Simple Selects?

Next to each product on this list, you may have noticed a Real Simple Selects seal of approval. Any product appearing alongside that seal has been vetted by our team—put through tests and graded on its performance to earn a spot on our list. Although we buy most of the products we test, sometimes we do get samples from companies if purchasing a product ourselves isn’t an option. All products go through the same rigorous process, whether they are purchased or sent by the company.

Love our recommendations? Check out more products that have earned the Real Simple Selects, from humidifiers to cordless vacuums.

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