The best mattress toppers 2024 – add extra comfort, cushioning and support to your bed
The best mattress toppers for improving your sleep set-up – from the best memory foam mattress toppers from Simba and Panda, to the best cooling toppers for a more breathable sleep
QUICK LIST
The best mattress toppers will add a layer of cushioning support to your sleep set up. A good mattress topper provides an additional layer that can cover up uncomfortable mattress springs, bring comfort to a too-hard sofa bed, or add breathability to a mattress that is making you overheat at night.
Unlike a mattress protector, which is a thin fabric covering that simply adds an extra layer of protection to your mattress, a mattress topper is a much more robust affair. Usually measuring at least 5cm deep, it's a substantial layer that can be placed over the top of your existing mattress to add comfort and support.
If you're looking for a better night's sleep, then although even the best mattress toppers on the market can't beat investing in the best mattress your budget allows, they can prove a good interim solution whilst you save for the mattress of your dreams.
Our team of bedding experts has rounded up the best mattress toppers on their radar below. Including bestselling memory foam mattress toppers from Simba and Panda that add a layer of cushioning for joints, breathable toppers for a cooler sleep from Woolroom, and even a self-heating mattress topper from Silentnight!
The quick list
Short on time? This quick list is an overview of the best mattress toppers. You'll find more information on each mattress topper and why our testers recommend it if you keep on scrolling.
Best overall
Best overall
It's an investment, but we think this mattress topper is the most capable of overhauling an uncomfortable sleep set-up. That's because it's the only topper to employ a memory foam top layer (for cushioning) with a pocket spring base layer (for support). That means it's able to disguise all manner of uncomfortable sleep surfaces.
Best memory foam
Best memory foam
If you're after some additional comfort at a more affordable price point then we think this is the best memory foam mattress topper you can buy. It doesn't have springs like the Simba Hybrid topper, but its all-memory-foam construction regularly gets 5-star reviews and it's great for adding extra cushioning to a too-hard sleep surface.
Best budget buy
Best budget buy
Dunelm's Teddy Bear mattress topper will add some extra snuggle-factor to your bed. It's one of the thinnest toppers in our round up, so doesn't offer any support, but its fleecey design is very affordable and does a good job of adding a little extra comfort.
Best cooling
Best cooling mattress topper
If you're struggling with night sweats or finding a memory foam mattress is making you overheat during the night, then this breathable mattress topper will be music to your ears. It's packed with thermo-regulating (and eco-friendly) wool that can wick moisture and heat away from the body during sleep to deliver a cooler sleep. Out hot sleeping reviewer couldn't praise it highly enough.
Best warming
Best warming mattress topper
Perfect for the colder months, this mattress topper is designed to reflect the sleeper's own body heat back towards them via a 3-layer construction that includes heat-reflecting foil, a thermal lining, and a quilted top. Our reviewer only had positive things to say about its performance, noticing a definite difference in overnight warmth.
Best feather and down
Best feather and down
A feather and down mattress topper is a great way to add a little luxury to your sleep set-up. It won't offer the support of the Simba Hybrid topper, or as much joint cushioning for aches and pains as the Panda memory foam topper, but it does deliver an extra layer of softness to sink into. Plus, it gets rave reviews from DUSK customers, as well as our tester.
Best mattress toppers 2024
Why you can trust Ideal Home
Best mattress topper overall
1. Simba Hybrid Topper
Our expert review:
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
We're big fans of the Simba Hybrid Mattress so it's perhaps no surprise that we like the brand's hybrid mattress topper, too.
It may be the most expensive topper on this list, but this mattress topper differs from most others on the market in that it combines actual coil springs as well as a memory foam layer. Simba has essentially created a thinner four-layer version of its bestselling mattress, which results in one of the most robust and supportive toppers we've tested and makes this topper the most capable of overhauling your sleep set-up without a full mattress replacement.
It's a great choice for those looking to upgrade a mattress that has started to sag or lose structure, or for adding proper support and cushioning to a sofa bed. The memory foam upper will also help to add cushioning to a firmer mattress and reduce motion transfer between sleeping partners.
The jury is split on the topper's breathability claims, with one tester finding they slept cooler, but other self-described 'hot sleepers' saying they didn't notice much relief. However, the antislip base and straps are well worth a mention. Most mattress toppers are attached by straps, but in our experience, they're prone to pinging off. The Simba Hybrid Topper straps stayed firm in our testing, but even if they hadn't, the topper was going nowhere thanks to its anti-slip base.
All in all, our only gripe is the price, but, you do get what you pay for after all. If this is the only thing putting you off, too, then it's worth checking out Simba discount codes to try and nab a deal.
Best memory foam mattress topper
2. Panda The Topper
Our expert review:
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
If you have a too-firm mattress or your not-so-comfy sofa bed leaves overnight guests a little nonplussed, then this memory foam mattress topper could be just what you need to add some additional cushioning.
At 5cm thick, it’s not the chunkiest topper out there, but it is made of pure memory foam and we think side sleepers especially will appreciate how pressure points (hips and shoulders) sink into the topper for cushioned support.
Panda claims the mattress topper's 'gel-infused technology' reacts to your body temperature and keeps you cool, and whilst we can't speak on the science wizardry, our seasoned sleep testers definitely found it slept cooler than many memory foam mattresses – there was no flailing around in a sticky mess at 3am here.
Added benefits include the machine washable cover (at 30 degrees) and the silky soft feel of the bamboo cover. The only negative point our reviewer experienced was that the topper slid down to the end of the bed after a week's use, despite the elastic straps on the corner and silicone base of the cover that’s supposed to stop movement. However, the mattress it was tested on was 30cm deep, so if your mattress is the more standard 25cm or below it should stay in place.
Best budget buy
3. Dunelm Teddy Bear Cream Mattress Enhancer
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
We’re huge fans of Dunelm at Ideal Home, and over the years, its Teddy Bear fleece products have kept us snuggly and warm. The brand’s foray into mattress toppers is surprising, but it’s fair to say that this is a great option for those who want a budget topper that focuses on softness and cosiness.
Featuring a super soft Teddy Bear fleece face on top for added warmth in winter and a microfibre reverse to keep you cool in the winter, this topper isn’t just for the colder months. And its ease of use has to be commended, as it’s both machine washable and elasticated around the edges for a snug fit.
Our main concern is with the firmness of this mattress topper, though. If you want added comfort, this Dunelm choice will no doubt serve you well. It might not do the job if you suffer from back pain and need extra support, though.
Best cooling mattress topper
4. Woolroom Deluxe Wool Mattress Topper
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
The 4-5cm deep Woolroom Deluxe Wool Mattress Topper offers a natural and eco-friendly way to achieve a cooler night's sleep, harnessing the thermo-regulating powers of wool to create a breathable sleep surface that wicks moisture and heat away from the body during sleep.
This enables night-time temperatures to remain stable, delivering a deeper, undisturbed sleep.
After finding the synthetic materials in her memory foam mattress were reflecting body heat back towards her and causing her to overheat in the night, our hot-sleeping reviewer tested out this wool layer between her and the mattress and found it delivered a far more breathable sleep surface that instantly reduced discomfort and night sweats.
Best warming mattress topper
5. Silentnight Heat Genie Self-Heating Mattress Topper
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
If you're looking for an affordable way to make your bed a little warmer on cold nights, then Silentnight's Heat Genie Self-Heating mattress topper could well fit the bill.
Self-heating though... how does that work?! Well, this mattress topper is designed to reflect the sleeper's own body heat back towards them, with a 3-layer construction that includes heat-reflecting foil, a thermal lining, and a quilted top.
We have to admit, our first thoughts were that this sounded like it was going to end in one big sweaty mess come bedtime, but our brave reviewer put the Heat Genie to the test (admittedly in a very cold bedroom) and had only positive things to say about its performance, noticing a definite difference in overnight warmth. Thankfully there was also far less rustling than that heat-reflecting foil led us to envisage.
Based on wider customer reviews, we'd say it's likely that this topper's success or failure is largely determined by how much body heat each individual emits – with self-proclaimed 'cold people' finding it less successful than those who assigned themselves as 'average' body warmth. And, at 3cm deep, there isn't a lot of cushioning to this microfibre mattress topper, but then that isn't its main selling point.
Overall, if you want to add some extra warmth to the bed without the additional energy use and complication of cables that even the best electric blankets can't completely eliminate, then we think this mattress topper is well worth a try, especially considering its affordable price tag.
Best feather and down mattress topper
6. Dusk Supreme Goose Down Mattress Topper
Our expert review:
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
A down mattress topper is a great way to add a little luxury and upgrade your sleep setup.
With this DUSK mattress topper, you can transform your sleep surface from uncomfortable and uncompromising to plush and luxurious. In fact, you’ll be able to recreate a boutique hotel experience, with that extra quilted cushioning. Add it to a mattress that’s near to needing replacing or pop it on top of one that you just can’t seem to get along with. But, as with the other comfort enhancers on this list, just don't expect it to be ideal if you need a firmer support layer.
Whilst down fill claims to be temperature regulating, our reviewer found this topper a little warm in hot summer temperatures, but we think it makes a great addition to winter bedding. After all, who doesn't love some extra cosiness during the Christmas season? They also loved that it comes in a handy carry case that makes it practical to store until then.
How to choose the best mattress topper
Mattress toppers can perform a number of functions. They’re great if you’re renting a furnished flat, for instance, and the mattress provided isn't the most comfortable. Adding a soft layer can quickly, and relatively cheaply, turn a rock hard mattress into an altogether softer one. And, if you have a sofa bed that leaves a lot to be desired comfort-wise, then a mattress topper can improve your guest's sleeping experience.
Alternatively, it might be that your once-comfortable mattress doesn’t quite suit your needs any more, you just can’t afford a new mattress right now, or you are deferring the pleasure until you move. Whatever the reason you're considering investing, a mattress topper could help you to sleep more comfortably.
However, when choosing the best mattress topper for your bed it's important to give some thought to exactly what you're hoping it will achieve, as this will influence which type you opt for. We've broken down the basics below.
Materials
If you're looking to add comfort to a not-so-comfortable mattress or sofa bed then memory foam can be a great option. This is a dense layer of cushioning foam that becomes malleable when warmed by a sleepers body heat enabling it to mould slightly around the body. That also means memory foam is great for cushioning hips and shoulders if you're a side sleeper.
However, not everyone enjoys that distinctive memory foam 'hug', and memory foam can lead to overheating. If your mattress gets too warm at night and you're looking for a cooling mattress topper, then you're far better opting for a mattress topper made of natural, breathable materials such as wool.
As Chris Tattersall, Sleep Expert and MD of wool bedding specialists Woolroom, says, 'if you are naturally a hot sleeper, toppers made with feather and down or memory foam will trap in heat, likely causing you to wake up in the night. Wool has natural temperature regulating properties, helping you to stay cool when it’s hot and warm when it’s cold. Wool also has better moisture management capabilities, transporting moisture away from the body as opposed to feather/down and synthetic alternatives'.
However, wool-filled mattress toppers tend to be dry clean only. If you need a mattress topper that can easily be washed then a synthetic mattress topper filled with hollow fibre or microfibre foam can be the easiest to care for.
Depth
The average mattress topper tends to be around five centimetres deep, although they can range from between two to ten centimetres.
The best depth for you will depend on your preferences, your sleep style, and how uncomfortable the surface underneath the topper is!
As Chris Tattersall of Woolroom, explains, 'thinner mattress toppers are usually around 2-4cm and offer a subtle support. Medium thickness toppers range between 4-7cm and offer both comfort and support, making them a versatile option for various sleeping positions. Thicker toppers, which are around 9cm and more offer a more substantial change to your mattress, enhancing the comfort of an older mattress'.
We think five centimetres makes for a good depth, although if you're a side sleeper you may want to opt for a slightly deeper mattress topper so that there's plenty of cushioning for hips and shoulders to sink into.
FAQs
Do I need a mattress topper or a new mattress?
If you're wondering how often you should change your mattress then experts suggest it should be every seven years or so. Beyond this, the support offered by even the best materials will start to decline. A mattress topper can help to prolong your mattress's lifespan by adding a top layer that can cushion joints and hold your body in a more comfortable position.
If your mattress is just a little past its best, or you're planning on getting a replacement in the next couple of years, then a mattress topper is an affordable way to improve your sleep without the full commitment and expense of a new mattress. But, if the mattress below is long overdue a replacement, there's only so much a topper can do.
Do I need a mattress topper or a protector?
The main difference between a mattress topper and a mattress protector is their thickness. Some of the best mattress protectors may have a bit of padding, but at most they're usually only one or two centimetres deep and are not intended for adding the levels of comfort you can get from a topper.
If you want to shield your mattress from spills and keep it fresh, a protector is for you. If it is added comfort you need, choose a topper. Need both? Get a mattress protector that is large enough to cover your mattress with a topper on top.
How thick should a mattress topper be?
The average mattress topper tends to be around five centimetres deep, although they can range from between two to ten centimetres. The best thickness for you will depend on your preference and the condition of the sleep surface you'll be placing the topper onto.
However, in general, we think five centimetres makes for a good depth. Danielle Mason, Head of Product Development at bedding manufacturer The Fine Bedding Company, agrees saying, 'Ideally, a mattress topper should be at least 5cm deep, two-sided and fully turnable'.
How we test
You'll find full details of the Ideal Home review process on our How We Test page.
Our review team has tested out some of the bestselling mattress toppers on the market to find out if they live up to their claims. We've put Simba, Panda, Emma, Woolroom, Silentnight and a whole host more brands through their paces to find our top recommendations.
If there are any products that we haven't managed to test in person, or the product didn't achieve over 4 out of 5 stars, then they won't have an Ideal Home Approved badge. However, you can rest assured that we've done thorough research on the product's technical specifications and read multiple happy – and not-so-happy – customer reviews to narrow down our suggestions to only the best-in-class.
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Lauren Bradbury is a freelance writer and major homes enthusiast. She graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in English and Creative Writing from the University of Chichester in 2016, before dipping her toe into the world of content writing. After years of agency work, writing everything from real-life stories to holiday round-ups, she decided to take the plunge and become a full-time freelancer in the online magazine world. Since then, she has become a regular contributor for Real Homes and Ideal Home, and become even more obsessed with everything interior and garden related. As a result, she’s in the process of transforming her old Victorian terraced house into an eclectic and modern home that hits visitors with personality as soon as they walk through the door.
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