Shopping for a firm mattress topper?
You've come to the right place.
A firm mattress topper can improve mattress support, spinal alignment, and overall comfort. It can also help reduce back pain.
What's In This Buying Guide?
In this buying guide, we review the best firm mattress toppers for 2023. Our top picks include a variety of options, including memory foam, latex, and organic toppers to help you find the perfect mattress topper for your needs.
For more great recommendations, see our reviews of the best mattress toppers for back pain and the best cooling mattress toppers and pads.
How a Firm Mattress Topper Helps You Sleep Better
An overly soft mattress is bad for your back and joints. Your midsection, which exerts the most pressure on the mattress, sinks lower than the rest of the body. This bends your spine and puts pressure on your hip and shoulder joints.
Over time, back pain is inevitable and can be accompanied by pain in the shoulders and hips.
A firm mattress topper reduces your mattress's sinkage. Instead of your midsection sinking into the mattress, your spine and body stay naturally aligned.
This reduces or eliminates back, shoulder, and hip pain.
A firm sleeping surface is especially important for stomach sleepers, some back sleepers and people who weigh more than average.
If your mattress feels uncomfortably soft, getting a firm mattress topper is cheaper than buying a brand new mattress.
Note, however, that a mattress topper is not a miracle worker. If your mattress is in terrible condition or has a deep sag in the middle, a topper isn't going to help much. You'll still wake up with back pain or sore shoulders.
Mattress toppers work best for mattresses that are in relatively good condition but need some comfort improvement.
Best Firm Mattress Toppers
- Best Memory Foam Firm Mattress Topper: Novilla 4 Inch Medium
- Best Latex Firm Mattress Topper: PlushBeds Natural Latex
- Best Budget Firm Mattress Topper: Brooklyn Bedding 3” TITANFLEX™ TOPPER
- Best Firm Mattress Topper For Back Pain: Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR Supreme
- Best Organic Firm Mattress Topper: Avocado Vegan Mattress Topper (Firm)
- Best Foam Firm Mattress Topper: Amazon Basics Cooling Gel-Infused Firm Support
- Best Extra Firm for Soft Mattresses: Pure Green 100% Natural Latex
- Best for Hot Sleepers & Night Sweats: Avocado Green Organic Latex
- Best Two-Sided Firm Mattress Topper: BedStory 3 Inch Mattress Topper
- Best Firm Memory Foam Mattress Topper for Hot Sleepers: Puffy Mattress Topper (Firm)
| Mattress toppers | Award | Thickness | Materials | Cover | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Novilla Link goes to Amazon | Best memory foam | 4” | Gel memory foam & charcoal polyfoam | Bamboo | 3 years |
PlushBeds Natural Latex | Best latex | 2”/3” | Natural latex | Bamboo | 3 years |
Brooklyn Bedding | Best budget | 3” | TitanFlex foam | Cotton cover/knit cooling cover | 3 years |
Tempur-Pedic Supreme  Link goes to Amazon | Best for back pain | 3" | Tempur memory foam | Washable cover | 10 years |
Avocado Vegan | Best organic | 2.75" | Organic Dunlop latex | Organic cotton cover | 10 years |
Amazon Basics Link goes to Amazon | Best foam | 2” | Gel-infused polyfoam | No cover | Not specified |
Pure Green Link goes to Amazon | Best extra-firm | 1"/2"/3" | Natural latex | No cover | 5 years |
Avocado Green | Best for hot sleepers & night sweats | 2.75” | Natural latex & wool | Organic cotton cover | 10 years |
BedStory
Link goes to Amazon | Best 2-sided | 3”/4” | Gel, copper and charcoal infused memory foam & polyfoam | Bamboo | Not specified |
Puffy Mattress Topper (Firm) | Best long lasting | 2.5” | Memory foam | Bamboo & polyester | Lifetime warranty |
1. Best Memory Foam Firm Mattress Topper: Novilla 4 Inch Medium Firm Memory Foam Mattress Topper
If you want a firm mattress topper that also offers some pressure relief, we recommend the Novilla 4” memory foam topper.
It’s a great choice for heavier sleepers who need a thick and supportive topper they can sink into without bottoming out.
Pros
- Firm support with some pressure relief.
- Great for heavy sleepers.
- Breathable bamboo cover.
- Comes with corner straps to secure the topper.
Cons
- Not suitable for hot sleepers.
Our Review
Generally, memory foam toppers are not a good choice if you are looking for something firm and extra-supportive. Memory is too soft and really hugs your body.
The Novilla 4” topper feels different. It still has the hug of memory foam, but it’s not as much so you don't sink in too far.
That’s because there’s actually only 1.5” of memory foam. The other 2.5” consists of dense polyfoam that firms up the topper and support your body.
The two layers create a nice balance where you get a bit of pressure relief and plenty of support. This makes the topper great for heavier sleepers who want a bit of plushness and sinkage, without bottoming out.
Note that only the 4” Novilla topper provides a medium-firm to firm feel. The 2” and 3” toppers are softer.
The 4” thickness makes the Novilla topper especially ideal for soft and sagging mattresses. It eliminates the crater at the center of your mattress, ensuring you get proper spinal alignment.
The Novilla topper comes with a bamboo cover that’s highly breathable and wicks sweat (the zippered cover is removable and machine washable).
For added cooling, the memory foam layer is infused with gel while the foam layer is infused with charcoal.
You also get corner straps that go under your mattress to keep the topper secure.
The Novilla 4 Inch Memory Foam Topper is Good For:
- Anyone looking for a medium-firm to firm memory foam topper that has lots of support and a bit of giving.
- Heavy sleepers who need firm support and some pressure relief.
- Anyone who wants to add support to a soft and sagging mattress.
2. Best Latex Firm Mattress Topper: PlushBeds Natural Latex
Latex toppers are the best for folks who want a firm feel. Latex has less give than memory foam and provides good support.
Our favorite firm latex topper is the PlushBeds natural latex mattress topper. PlushBeds offers two firm options: medium-firm and extra-firm.
Pros
- 100% natural – healthy and eco-friendly.
- Excellent support.
- Two firm options.
- Talalay latex eliminates pressure points.
- Sleeps cool.
Cons
- Cotton cover costs extra.
- Expensive.
Our Review
The PlushBeds natural latex topper is available in five comfort options ranging from soft to extra-firm.
But only two of those are ideal for those looking for a firm feel topper: the medium-firm or extra-firm topper.
The medium-firm has more give and is suitable for those who want some pressure point relief.
The extra-firm has minimal give and is the best choice if you want to float on your bed. It’s also the best for firming up a really soft mattress.
You can also choose between a 2” and 3” thick topper. The thicker option offers more cushioning and support. We recommend it for those with a bigger body (over 230lbs).
Despite the extra-firm label, the extra-firm topper doesn't feel like sleep on a rock. It's made from Talalay latex, which has a naturally plush and luxurious feel. While it won't sink as much as memory foam, the latex topper hugs your body just enough to eliminate pressure points.
Similar to other natural latex toppers, the PlushBeds topper is expensive. The price goes up even higher if you want your topper to come with a cover.
To reduce the cost, you can choose a 2″ topper instead of the 3″ one. The thinner topper will feel slightly firmer and heavier sleepers may not find it to be as pressure relieving.
One thing we like about latex toppers is how cool they sleep. If you are a hot sleeper or live in a warm climate, the PlushBeds natural latex topper doesn't get hot at all.
The PlushBeds topper comes with a 5-year warranty. But your topper will likely last much longer than five years. Natural latex is very durable and doesn't sag like foam.
The PlushBeds Natural Latex Topper is Good For:
- Sleepers who want a medium firm or extra-firm latex mattress topper.
- Shoppers looking for an eco-friendly organic or natural mattress topper.
- Hot sleepers.
3. Best Budget Firm Mattress Topper: Brooklyn Bedding 3” TITANFLEX™ TOPPER
If you are shopping on a budget, Brooklyn Bedding offers an affordable mattress topper with a latex-like feel and firmness.
The Brooklyn Bedding TitanFlex topper costs way less than a latex topper but has the firm support you are looking for.
Pros
- Cheaper than a latex mattress.
- Firm and supportive.
- Not as hot as memory foam.
- Comes with a cover.
Cons
- Not as good as latex when it comes to cooling and responsiveness.
Our Review
Brooklyn Bedding already uses TitanFlex foam in their mattresses to add support and responsiveness.
While not quite like latex, TitanFlex foam is designed to feel somewhat like latex. It is elastic, which makes it bouncier than traditional polyfoam and memory foam.
It also has some of the body-contouring properties of memory foam, though it won’t hug you as deeply as a memory foam topper.
The combination of memory foam-like pressure relief and latex-like support and responsiveness makes it the best alternative to both latex and memory foam toppers.
Another advantage of TitanFlex foam is that it sleeps cooler than memory foam, though it’s not quite as good at cooling as latex foam. It works best for mild to average hot sleepers.
If you get really hot at night, you should stick to a latex topper.
The Brooklyn Bedding TitanFlex topper is available in three firmness levels. Be sure to pick the firm option if you want to firm up your soft mattress.
You can choose between two cover options: an organic cotton cover or a luxury cooling cover.
The Brooklyn Bedding TitanFlex is Good For:
- Anyone looking for a cheaper latex-alternative topper.
- Anyone looking for a cooler and more supportive memory foam-alternative topper.
- Budget-conscious shoppers.
4. Best Firm Mattress Topper For Back Pain: Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR Supreme
A too-soft mattress with inadequate support can cause or worsen back pain. The Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR Supreme topper adds support to your mattress while still providing pressure relief on your back and other pressure points.
Pros
- Sleeps cool (for most sleepers).
- Excellent support and pressure-point relief.
- Comes with a removable and washable cover.
- Durable memory foam.
Cons
- Expensive.
Our Review
If you've bought a Tempur-Pedic product, you know they come at a premium price. It's usually worth it.
The Tempur ProForm Supreme will cost you about twice the price of most 3″ memory foam toppers. But it's more comfortable and lasts longer than other brands.
The Supreme topper uses an exclusive type of memory foam called TEMPUR. It easily adapts to your body and sleeping position and has a better response than ordinary memory foam.
The Supreme topper has a medium-firm feel. It's not just great for firming up a too-soft mattress; you can also use it to slightly soften an extra-firm mattress.
The topper provides great body contouring, which keeps your spine in alignment and relieves pressure from your shoulders, back, and hips.
Another area where the TEMPUR memory foam performs better than ordinary memory foam is temperature regulation.
The Supreme topper sleeps much cooler than most memory foam toppers, making it a good choice for naturally hot sleepers.
The breathable cover also helps you stay cool at night.
Tempur-Pedic sells another memory foam topper specifically designed for cooling, but it has a medium comfort feel. Unless you are looking for a plush topper, stick with the Supreme topper.
A removable and washable cover makes it easy to keep the topper clean and allergen-free.
Unfortunately, the topper doesn't come with straps or an elastic pocket to secure it to the mattress. So it tends to shift, especially when you are getting off the bed.
The Tempur-Pedic Supreme Topper is Good for:
- Folks looking for a luxury memory foam mattress topper.
- Hot sleepers and those who live in a warm climate.
- Back pain sufferers looking for a medium-firm foam topper with a good balance of support and pressure relief.
5. Best Organic Firm Mattress Topper: Avocado Vegan Mattress Topper (Firm)
If you prefer an eco-friendlier mattress topper, we recommend the Avocado Vegan topper. It's not only organic; it's also vegan-friendly.
Pros
- Organic and vegan.
- Firm support.
- Cotton padding provides pressure relief.
- Sleeps cool.
Cons
- Expensive.
- The cover is not washable.
Our Review
Latex toppers are great for making a mattress more supportive. Latex has a more rigid feel and can hold your weight without sinking too much.
The Avocado Vegan topper is made with organic Dunlop latex. It is wrapped in an organic cotton cover quilted with organic cotton. It's all-natural and all-organic. It's also vegan.
The topper is available in two firmness levels: firm and plush. We recommend the firm one if you want better mattress support.
As you would expect from a natural latex topper, Avocado Vegan has no heating issues. Latex does not trap heat, and the breathable organic cotton cover ensures heat quickly dissipates away from the topper.
Avocado Vegan is not exactly a budget mattress topper. It even costs more than the premium Tempur-Pedic Supreme topper.
If you are looking for a sub $200 mattress topper, this is not it.
Another issue we have with the Avocado Vegan topper is the lack of an elastic pocket or straps, meaning there's no way to secure it to the mattress. You'll have to occasionally push it back into place.
The topper comes with a cover that you can remove. Unfortunately, you cannot machine wash it.
The Avocado Vegan Mattress is good for
- Sleepers looking for an organic latex mattress.
- Vegans.
- Folks with a bigger budget.
6. Best Foam Firm Mattress Topper: Amazon Basics Cooling Gel-Infused Firm Support Mattress Topper
If neither memory foam nor latex toppers feel comfortable, try a polyfoam mattress topper. Our favorite firm foam topper is the Amazon Basics gel-infused firm mattress topper.
It’s also one of the cheapest mattress toppers you’ll find.
Pros
- Cheap but good quality.
- Firm feel.
- Sleeps cooler than a memory foam topper.
Cons
- Not quite as firm as latex.
- Not ideal for heavy sleepers.
Our Review
The Amazon Basics topper is made with polyurethane foam. It’s not the most luxurious topper, but it provides a decent amount of support for back and stomach sleepers.
The topper has a medium-firm to firm latex feel. That said, it’s not as firm and supportive as a firm latex topper.
The Amazon Basics topper is more for those who want to add just a bit of firmness to their mattress. If you want a proper firm topper, latex is your best option.
The Amazon Basics topper is 2” thick. That’s enough for most sleepers, but too thin for heavy sleepers. If you weigh more than 200lbs, a 3”+ topper provides the best support.
One advantage the Amazon Basics foam topper has over memory foam toppers is that it doesn't trap as much heat. So it sleeps a bit cooler.
The cooling gel infused into the foam also helps with cooling.
Note that the Amazon Basics topper doesn't come with a cover. We highly recommend getting a breathable zippered cover for it.
The Amazon Basics Firm Foam Topper is Good For:
- Anyone looking for an alternative to latex and memory foam toppers.
- Light and average weight sleepers looking for a supportive and pressure relieving topper.
- Anyone looking for a bargain firm mattress topper.
7. Best Extra Firm Mattress Topper for Soft Mattresses: Pure Green 100% Natural Latex Mattress Topper
If your mattress feels too soft, we recommend the Pure Green natural latex topper. It has an extra-firm comfort feel that counters the softness of the mattress and improves support.
Pros
- 100% natural latex.
- Increases support on a soft mattress.
- Sleeps cool.
- Multiple thickness options.
Cons
- Pricey compared to a foam topper.
Our Review
The extra-firm feel of the Pure Green mattress makes it a good choice for overly soft mattresses. As long as your mattress is not too worn out or sagging, the Pure Green topper will help you sleep more comfortably.
It also helps reduce or eliminate back problems caused by sleeping on a too-soft mattress. The topper keeps your spine naturally aligned and reduces pressure on your back.
The sinkage is minimal but enough to relieve pressure on your shoulder, hips, and other pressure points.
However, we don't recommend the Pure Green topper for side sleepers. It's not soft enough to hug your shoulders and hips.
The Pure Green topper is made with 100% natural latex. It doesn't contain any synthetic foam, latex, or fillers.
As such, there are no chemicals smells, which are common with foam toppers. It also sleeps much cooler than foam toppers.
Natural latex does not trap heat, making Pure Green a good choice for hot sleepers.
The Pure Green topper is available in three thickness options: 1″, 2″ and 3″. The 2″ topper works best for most soft mattresses.
If you are concerned, the topper will make your bed too high, get the 1″ topper. The 1-inch also ideal if you want to adjust mattress firmness only slightly.
If your mattress has a mild sag or craters in the middle when you lie on it, the 3″ topper is the best choice. It gives your mattress a much more drastic makeover, making it more supportive. The 3″ topper is also the best choice for heavier folks.
Note that the price goes up when you choose a thicker topper.
The Pure Green topper is available in two options: one with an organic cotton cover and one without.
To protect your topper, we highly recommend getting the one with a cover. It doesn't bump up the cost of the topper too much.
The topper does shift a bit when you are getting out of bed, but it's nothing major; just push the topper back into place.
The Pure Green Topper is Good For:
- Anyone who feels their mattress is too soft.
- People with back problems caused or worsened by a soft unsupportive mattress.
- Anyone looking for a supportive natural latex topper.
8. Best Firm Mattress Topper for Hot Sleepers & Night Sweats: Avocado Green Organic Latex Mattress Topper (Firm)
If you sleep hot or sweat a lot in bed, we recommend the Avocado Green organic latex mattress topper.
It contains organic latex, organic wool, and organic cotton, all materials with excellent cooling performance.
Pros
- Great for hot sleepers and hot flashes.
- Helps with night sweats.
- Organic materials.
- Long lasting.
Cons
- Expensive.
Our Review
The Avocado Green latex topper is the non-vegan sibling to the Avocado Vegan topper.
The main difference between the two is that the Avocado Green latex topper contains wool, while the vegan topper uses cotton fiber instead.
It’s why we think it is the best choice for hot sleepers and night sweats.
Wool has an unparalleled ability to regulate temperature. When it’s hot, it keeps you cool and quickly wicks away sweat.
When it is cold, it turns into insulation to keep you warm.
The naturally-cool organic latex also helps a lot, as does the organic cotton cover.
Overall, the Avocado Green latex topper is suitable even for the hottest of sleepers. It’s also great for night sweats and hot flashes.
You can use it to cool and firm up a hot and soft memory foam mattress.
The only downside is the price tag. With all those organic materials, the Avocado Green latex topper is expensive.
The Avocado Green Organic Latex Topper is Good For:
- Hot sleepers and people with night sweats.
- Anyone looking for a firm organic latex mattress topper.
- Sleepers who prefer organic and eco-friendly bedding.
9. Best Two-Sided Firm Mattress Topper: BedStory 3 Inch Mattress Topper
If you are not sure exactly how firm your new mattress topper should be, get the BedStory 3” mattress topper. It is two-sided, with each side offering a different level of firmness.
You can choose between firm and extra-firm comfort.
Pros
- Reversible with two firmness options.
- Gel memory foam and 3D mesh design improves cooling.
- Bamboo cover for added cooling.
- Charcoal-infused foam improves moisture control and keeps the topper fresh.
Cons
- May still feel too warm for heat-sensitive sleepers.
Our Review
It’s impossible to predict what a topper will feel like until you put it on your mattress and lay down on it. That’s because how a mattress topper feels depends on your weight, sleeping position, and the firmness level of your mattress.
The BedStory mattress topper eliminates the risk that you’ll end up with an uncomfortable topper by offering two firmness levels in one topper.
The 3” BedStory topper has two layers: a top gel memory foam layer and a bottom poly foam layer. The memory foam side of the topper has a firm feel.
If you feel it’s not firm enough for you, flip over to the poly foam side. It has an extra-firm feel that offers more support.
BedStory also sells a 4” version that offers more support and pressure relief for heavier sleepers. The 4” option is also the best if your current mattress is really worn out or has a deep sag.
To keep you cool, the BedStory mattress topper infuses the foam with cooling gel and copper. In addition, the memory foam layer has a 3D mesh design that improves ventilation.
The breathable bamboo cover also helps with cooling.
The BedStory memory foam topper also contains bamboo charcoal and green tea, which provide moisture control and keep the mattress topper smelling fresh all the time.
All this is great, but it may not be enough for people who sleep very hot or sweat a lot in bed. The Avocado Green organic latex mattress topper is still the best choice for hot sleepers and night sweats.
The BedStory 3” Two-Sided Mattress Topper is Good For:
- Anyone who is not sure how firm a mattress they should get. The BedStory topper lets you experiment with two firmness levels.
- Mild to average hot sleepers looking for a cool memory foam mattress topper.
- Anyone shopping for an extra-thick mattress topper (get the 4” version).
10. Best Firm Memory Foam Mattress Topper for Hot Sleepers: Puffy Mattress Topper (Firm)
Many cheap foam mattress toppers last 2-3 years before getting too thin and uncomfortable. If you want a memory foam mattress topper that will last for years, we recommend the Puffy mattress topper.
It comes with a lifetime warranty.
Pros
- Lasts for years – backed up by a lifetime warranty.
- Provides firm support for soft mattresses.
- 101-night in-home trial with free returns.
- Cooling bamboo cover.
Cons
- May still feel too warm for heat-sensitive sleepers.
Our review
Puffy offers a lifetime warranty on their mattresses. They offer the same on their memory foam topper. So this is a mattress topper that’s designed to last a long time.
The topper is 2.5” thick, which provides the perfect amount of support and pressure relief for most sleepers without making your mattress overly thick.
It comes with a bamboo and polyester cover that helps keep you cool.
The Puffy mattress topper is available in a firm and soft option. Choose the firm to boost support and improve spinal alignment on a soft or sagging mattress.
Puffy offers a 101-night trial with free returns. So don’t worry that you’ll be stuck with a mattress topper you don't like. You can send it right back and get a full refund.
While the Puffy mattress topper does a decent job with cooling, we wouldn’t recommend it for very hot sleepers.
They may still find it too warm. The BedStory topper above has better cooling performance because it combines multiple cooling methods (gel, copper, charcoal, mesh memory foam, and bamboo cover).
But for really effective cooling, latex is king.
The Puffy Mattress Topper is Good For:
- Anyone looking for a long-lasting memory foam mattress topper.
- Those looking for a good bargain on a high quality firm mattress topper.
- Those who want to try a mattress topper at home before they fully commit (Puffy allows free returns).
Firm Mattress Topper Buying Guide
Who Needs A Firm Mattress Topper
A firm mattress topper is suitable for anyone who needs more support on their bed. This includes:
- Back sleepers and stomach sleepers
- Sleepers who weigh more than average.
- Couples who need a more supportive bed.
- Anyone with a mattress that feels too soft (if you sink into your mattress more than you’d like).
- Anyone with a mattress that’s soft and has sagged at the center.
- Anyone who needs to make a futon, a sofa, or an air mattress more comfortable for sleeping.
What to Look For in a Quality Firm Mattress Topper
Material
Memory foam, foam, or latex – those are the options you have when shopping for a firm mattress topper.
The best choice depends on your budget, the kind of ‘feel' you are going for, and personal preferences.
Memory foams:
Memory foam is known for its ability to conform to the body. A memory foam topper is good for pressure relief and is especially good for back and joint pain. Such toppers are also affordable, and good quality ones last at least 5 years.
On the downside, memory foam toppers can be uncomfortable for hot sleepers. Memory foam traps heat.
Memory foam toppers are also not ideal for sleepers looking for an extra-supportive feel with minimal sinkage. Even firm memory foam toppers will still have significant sinkage, which makes some sleepers feel like they are trapped in a hole.
Foam
Foam toppers are the cheapest ones you'll find. They do provide good pressure-relief, but not as much as memory foam. But they offer excellent support.
A foam topper is a good choice if you like the contouring feel of foam, but you want something more supportive than memory foam.
Another advantage of foam toppers is that they don't get as hot as memory foam toppers.
On the downside, foam toppers are not very eco-friendly and can have a strong smell when new. They also don't last as long as memory foam or latex toppers.
Latex
If you hate the sinky feel of memory foam, a latex topper is the best option. Latex has a firmer, more rigid feel to it.
Sleeping on a firm latex topper feels like floating on the mattress with just the right amount of softness to relieve pressure points.
Latex toppers are great for sleepers who want extra support. They are also ideal for hot sleepers (latex is naturally cool), stomach sleepers, and heavier folks.
The problem with latex toppers is the price. They are expensive, especially if you want a natural or organic latex topper.
You can save money on a synthetic or blended latex topper, but if you want a chemical-free and eco-friendly topper, you'll need to spend more.
Firmness Level
Even among firm mattress toppers, there are variations in firmness. Options range from medium-firm to extra-firm.
Medium-firm: Ideal for those who want a balance between firm support and soft contouring. If you are buying a memory foam mattress topper, it is likely medium-firm.
Firm: Ideal for those who want more support with just a little bit of plushness. Firm toppers are great for stomach and back sleepers.
Extra-firm: Ideal for stomach sleepers and heavier folks who want extra support. An extra firm topper can help improve support on an overly plush mattress. The best extra-firm mattress toppers are made with latex.
Thickness
Most mattress toppers are 2″ or 3″ thick. A two-inch topper is usually enough to adjust the firmness of your mattress.
Get a three-incher if you need extra sinkage (for added pressure relief), you weigh more than average, or your mattress is in bad shape and needs a total makeover.
You'll also come across 1″ mattress toppers. A thin one-inch topper is ideal if your mattress requires an only slight adjustment in firmness, e.g. if it's medium-firm and you want to adjust it to the firm.
A one-incher is also ideal if you are on a budget.
Removable Cover
Some mattress toppers come with a removable cover while others don't. Having a cover can improve the topper's comfort and breathability. But if you have comfortable bedsheets, it doesn't matter that much.
The biggest advantage of having a covered topper is hygiene. Since you can't wash the topper, being able to remove and wash the cover keeps the topper clean, allergen-free, and smelling fresh.
Note: Don't just check if the topper has a removable cover; also, check if the cover is machine washable. Some topper covers can only be spot cleaned.
Breathability/Cooling
If you sleep hot or have night sweats, get a breathable mattress topper that sleeps cool. We recommend a natural latex topper.
If you want a memory foam topper, look for one with cooling gel or a perforated design. A breathable cotton or bamboo cover can also help keep you cool and sweat-free.
Durability
A good way to tell how long a mattress topper is likely to last is to check the warranty. A 3-year warranty is not very promising when it comes to the longevity of the topper.
If you are buying a foam topper, look for one that's made with durable high-density foam. A good foam topper, such as those made by Tempur-Pedic, can easily last as long as a foam mattress (8-10 years).
Cheaper and mid-range foam toppers last 3-5 years.
Natural latex toppers are very durable and can last up to 10 years. Synthetic and blended latex toppers are cheaper but have a shorter lifespan of 3-5 years.
Firm Mattress Toppers: Frequently Asked Questions
Who needs a firm mattress topper?
Get a firm mattress topper if your current mattress feels too soft or doesn't offer good support and spinal alignment.
If you are not yet ready to buy a new mattress, a mattress topper is the next best option.
Which mattress topper is the firmest?
Latex mattress toppers are generally the firmest you’ll find. That’s because natural latex has less give and more bounce than foam.
Memory foam toppers tend to be the least firm. It’s difficult to find a firm or extra-firm memory foam topper. The firmest memory foam toppers have a medium-firm feel.
That’s because memory foam hugs your body more than latex, so it feels softer.
Is a firm mattress topper good for back pain?
A firm mattress topper can help with back pain if your current mattress is too soft. The mattress topper ensures you sleep with a proper posture that doesn't put pressure on your back.
But be careful not to get a topper that’s too firm for you as it can also mess up spinal alignment and worsen back pain.
If you have back pain, a medium-firm or firm memory foam topper works best.
Is a firm mattress topper good for hip pain?
A firm mattress topper can help with hip pain if your current mattress is too soft to offer any kind of support, or if it’s sagging at the center.
A firm mattress topper will balance out the soft mattress to give you more support while retaining some pressure relief.
But if your hip pain is caused or worsened by a too-firm mattress, what you need is a soft to medium mattress topper, preferably one made from memory foam.
Can I make my mattress firm on one side?
If only one of you wants a firmer sleeping surface, add a firm mattress topper just on one side of the bed.
Get a Twin or Twin XL topper that will fit on one half of the bed.
How do I harden my soft mattress?
A mattress topper is the best way to harden or firm up your soft mattress and add more support.
You can also try changing the foundation or box spring. Sometimes, an old or inadequate base or foundation can make your bed sag and feel too soft.
If you don't want to replace your foundation right now, try to prop it up by placing a bunkie board underneath your mattress.
If your mattress is worn out to the point that it’s sagging, it’s probably better to just replace it with a new mattress. Mattresses have gotten cheaper. You can get a high-quality medium-firm to firm memory foam or hybrid mattress for about $1,000 or less.
Is a firm mattress topper good for side sleepers?
Firm mattress toppers are best for back and stomach sleepers. Those are the two kinds of sleepers who will benefit from the added support from a firm topper.
A firm topper can be uncomfortable for side sleepers because it pushes against their hips, shoulders and other pressure points. Get a soft or medium mattress topper instead to enjoy more pressure relief.
Final Verdict
Buying a new mattress that offers more support is expensive. It's also not environmentally friendly if your current mattress is still in good condition. A firm mattress topper is a cheaper and less wasteful alternative that works just as well.
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