Shopping for a wool mattress topper?
You've come to the right place.
There are many different variations of wool mattress toppers available in the market. These range from 100% natural wool toppers to mixed fiber toppers that contain a mixture of wool and other materials.
What all wool mattress toppers have in common are their plush comfort, excellent moisture-wicking ability, and superior temperature regulation.
What's In This Buying Guide?
In this buying guide, we review the best wool toppers you can buy online. We also explain the benefits of wool toppers and give you some tips on how to shop for a wool topper.
If you are looking for a different kind of topper, see our reviews of the best mattress toppers (all types).
Best Wool Mattress Topper Reviews
- Best Overall: PlushBeds Handmade Natural Wool Topper
- Best Temperature Regulation: Sleep & Beyond Organic Merino
- Best Alpaca Wool: Avocado Green Alpaca Wool Standard Mattress Topper
- Best Luxury Wool Mattress Topper: Avocado Green Luxury Plush Mattress Topper
- Best Support: Avocado Green Organic Latex and Wool Mattress Topper
- Best Organic: Holy Lamb Organics Wool Mattress Toppers
- Best Budget: OrganicTextiles Australian Wool Mattress Topper
- Best for Deep Pressure Relief: Savvy Rest Harmony Talalay Latex Mattress Topper
- Best Wool Mattress Protector: Woolroom Chatsworth
- Best Wool Mattress Cover: DOWN UNDER Premium
- Best Wool Crib Mattress Topper: Sleep & Beyond myDual Crib Mattress Pad
| Wool Mattress Toppers | Award | Materials | Thickness | Machine Washable |
|---|---|---|---|---|
PlushBeds Natural Topper | Best Overall | Natural wool and organic cotton cover | 3" | No |
Sleep & Beyond Topper Link goes to Amazon | Best Temperature Regulation | Organic merino wool with cotton cover | 1.5" | No |
Avocado Green Alpaca Wool | Best Alpaca Wool | Wool, Alpaca and an organic cotton cover | 2" | No |
Avocado Green Luxury Plush | Best luxury | Alpaca and organic cotton cover | 2” | No |
Avocado Green Wool & Latex topper | Best support | Organic latex and wool. Organic cotton cover | 2.75” | No |
Holy Lamb Topper Link goes to Amazon | Best Organic | Natural wool and organic cotton cover | 1.5"-2" | No |
OrganicTextiles Australian Wool Topper Link goes to Amazon | Best budget | Natural wool & organic cotton cover | Less than 1” | No |
Savvy Rest Harmony | Best for deep pressure relief | Natural Talalay latex, organic wool, & organic cotton | 4” | No |
Woolroom Chatsworth Link goes to Amazon | Best wool mattress protector | Natural British wool & organic cotton cover | Less than 1” | Yes |
Down Under Australian Link goes to Amazon | Best wool mattress cover | Natural Australian sheep wool & polyester cover | 0.5” | Yes |
Sleep & Beyond Link goes to Amazon | Best wool crib mattress pad | Natural wool & cotton | Less than 1” | Yes |
1. Best Overall: PlushBeds Handmade Natural Wool Topper
The PlushBeds Handmade Natural Wool Topper uses all-natural materials, and it's handmade to ensure the best quality.
The PlushBeds topper is three inches thick, making it the thickest and plushest topper in our buying guide.
Pros
- Thicker than most wool toppers.
- Exceptional quality.
- All materials sourced in the USA.
- Excellent temperature regulation.
Cons
- PlushBeds don't accept returns
- Not machine washable
- Expensive
Our Review
The PlushBeds is our most favorite wool topper for three reasons: it's all-natural, the exceptional handmade quality, and its luxury comfort.
Let's start with the first one. All the materials used in the PlushBeds topper, including the cotton sateen cover and the wool, are 100% natural. There are no synthetic materials or fillers.
Each PlushBeds topper is made to order. When you place an order, the topper is hand sewn right here in the USA. By the way, all the materials are also sourced in the USA.
The handmade toppers have excellent quality. The cotton cover has a soft and luxurious 400TC sateen weave, and the wool batting is the purest you can get.
With a 3″ thickness, the PlushBeds topper is one of the most luxurious wool toppers you'll find. It hugs your body, relieving pressure points, and improving overall comfort.
The combination of a breathable cotton cover and the wool filling keeps you comfortable all-year-round. You'll never feel too hot or too cold.
Issues & Limitations
All that luxury comfort, unfortunately, comes with a high price tag. The PlushBeds topper is not an ideal pick if you are on a tight budget.
Because each topper is made to order and is handmade (read: it's a lot of work to make a single topper), PlushBeds does not accept returns. All sales are final.
Bottom Line
The PlushBeds handmade wool topper is one of the best upgrades you can make to your bed. Yeah, it's pricey, and you can't return it. But, we think the luxury comfort and quality of materials are worth it.
2. Best Temperature Regulation: Sleep & Beyond Organic Merino Wool Mattress Toppers
The 100% organic wool filling makes the Sleep & Beyond topper great at temperature regulation. It keeps you cool when it's hot and insulates you when temperatures drop.
Pros
- Breathable and temperature regulating
- Good for all seasons
- The topper is completely organic, made from pure merino wool and cotton
- Durable and eco-friendly
Cons
- Not machine washable.
Our Review
The Sleep & Beyond mattress topper contains a fill of fine organic merino wool encased in a 100% organic cotton cover.
It's great at regulating temperature. It'll keep you cool in summer and warm in winter.
The cotton cover complements the wool filling. It's highly breathable, which prevents overheating, and wicks sweat from your skin.
If you have allergies, this topper will help. The organic wool and cotton cover are hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites, mold, and mildew.
The Sleep & Beyond topper is about 1.5″ thick. That's enough padding to relieve pressure points without making your bed too soft.
The Sleep & Beyond topper comes with anchor bands to hold it in place on the mattress. Just slip the straps under your mattress to keep the topper from shifting.
Issues & Limitations
If you are looking for a topper that has a lofty feel, this one will disappoint you. Though it is capable of cushioning a variety of body weights, it might feel slightly thinner for heavier folks.
Another issue is that it is not machine washable. To keep it clean, the manufacturer recommends using a washable cover.
Bottom Line
The Sleep & Beyond organic wool topper is not just good for hot sleepers; it's also great for sleepers who get chilly at night as well as anyone who experiences night sweats.
3. Best Alpaca Wool: Avocado Green Alpaca Wool Standard Mattress Topper
If you’re looking for a luxury wool mattress topper, the Alpaca wool topper by Avocado Green is as luxurious as it gets.
The topper consists of natural Alpaca fiber sandwiched between two layers of organic wool. The three layers are encased in a soft organic cotton cover.
Pros
- Super luxurious.
- Organic, hypoallergenic and chemical-free
- Elastic straps on all four corners help to keep the topper in place
- Excellent temperature regulation.
- Wicks away sweat.
Cons
- Not ideal if you are looking for a budget buy.
- Not machine washable.
Our Review
The Alpaca wool topper combines three premium materials to create a luxurious, if expensive, mattress topper.
In the middle of the topper is a layer of natural Alpaca fiber. Alpaca is soft, highly breathable and insulates you better than sheep’s wool.
Two inches of Alpaca give the topper a plush and lofty feel that is particularly good for pressure-point relief.
On either side of the Alpaca layer is an inch of sheep’s wool. The wool adds more softness to the topper and keeps you at a comfortable temperature throughout the year.
Wrapping around the wool and Alpaca is an ultra-soft organic cotton cover.
The Avocado Green Alpaca topper doesn’t just boast high-quality materials; it’s also made sustainably. All the materials are sourced in ethical and environmentally-friendly ways.
If you want an even more comfortable wool topper, order the Luxury Plush option that costs $450 and $600 more than the standard version depending on the size.
The Luxury Plush Avocado Green Alpaca wool topper contains 100% baby alpaca fiber. This is the finest and softest wool found on an Alpaca (‘baby' doesn't refer to the age of the animal).
Issues & Limitations
Two big issues with the Avocado Green Alpaca topper. One, the price.
You could easily buy full mattress for the same price as the queen-size topper. But when you consider all-natural and organic luxurious materials, the price is understandable.
If you are looking for a budget wool topper, this is not it.
Two, maintenance.
The Alpaca topper does not go into a washing machine – it’s too delicate for that. To keep it clean, you’ll have to spend more money on a cover.
Bottom Line
If you don’t mind the price tag, the Avocado Green Alpaca topper will give your bed a luxurious upgrade.
4. Best Luxury: Avocado Green Luxury Plush Mattress Topper
The Avocado Green Luxury Plush mattress topper is made with 100% natural Alpaca fiber/wool, which is softer, cozier, and more moisture-wicking than merino wool.
On the downside, the Avocado Green alpaca topper costs about the same as a new mattress.
Pros
- Soft and luxurious.
- Excellent pressure relief.
- 100% natural.
- All-season temperature regulation.
- Helps with night sweats.
Cons
- Expensive.
Our Review
It’s hard to imagine a topper more luxurious than a wool topper. But an alpaca mattress topper feels softer, more pillowy and more luxurious than wool.
That’s because Alpaca wool has a silky soft feel, and doesn't have any of the itchiness you sometimes get from a merino wool topper.
Avocado Green doesn't use just any alpaca wool; they use baby alpaca wool. This is the softest wool on an (adult) alpaca, typically found on the chest.
So it’s extra-soft.
The Avocado Green alpaca luxury plush mattress topper is a good choice if you want to soften your firm mattress and improve pressure relief on your back, hips, and other pressure points.
The filling is 100% alpaca wool/fiber while the cover is 100% organic cotton.
In addition to making your mattress plush, the Avocado green alpaca topper also provides all-year temperature regulation.
If you are a hot sleeper or sweat a lot at night, the alpaca topper will help. It’s highly breathable thanks to the hollow fiber, and quickly wicks away moisture.
In the colder months, the hollow spaces inside the fiber trap warmth, insulating you against the chill.
Issues & Limitations
If you are shopping for a budget wool topper, the Avocado Green alpaca topper is probably not what you are looking for.
It costs the same as a high-quality foam or hybrid mattress. It’s more expensive than a merino wool topper.
Bottom Line
The Avocado Green luxury plush alpaca wool topper is a great choice for anyone looking for a plush and luxurious wool mattress topper.
Avoid it if you are looking for a budget wool topper.
5. Best Support: Avocado Green Organic Latex and Wool Mattress Topper
Most wool toppers are not machine washable, which makes maintenance difficult. You either tediously spot clean every dirty spot or spend more money on a cover.
Most wool toppers on their own don’t provide much support.
If you need to add support to a soft mattress while enjoying the plushness and cooling power of wool, get the Avocado Green organic latex and wool mattress topper.
Pros
- Provides support and pressure relief.
- Two comfort options – firm & plush.
- Organic materials, including the cover.
- Excellent cooling performance.
Cons
- Heavier than a wool-only topper – it is tedious to handle.
Our Review
Most wool mattress toppers are not suitable for soft mattresses. Their soft and plush feel will make the mattress even softer and reduce support.
The combined latex and wool topper by Avocado Green is the best option for adding support to a soft or sagging mattress.
A 2” layer of certified organic latex provides support, ensuring you don't sink too deep into your mattress. It also adds some bounciness to your mattress.
A thin layer of wool on top of the latex provides pressure relief.
Avocado Green also offers a softer option that uses a plush layer of latex. It’s ideal for a firmer mattress.
Both latex and wool are very good at cooling and temperature regulation. So hot sleepers will have no trouble sleeping on the Avocado Green latex and wool topper.
The organic cotton cover also helps with cooling and sweat-wicking.
Issues & Limitations
The Avocado Green latex and wool topper is heavier than a wool-only mattress topper. The Queen size topper weighs 38lbs.
This makes the topper difficult to set up and move around.
Bottom Line
The Avocado Green organic latex and wool topper is best for anyone looking for a wool topper that provides support and responsiveness.
Avoid it if you want a lightweight wool topper that’s easy to handle.
6. Best Organic: Holy Lamb Organics Wool Mattress Toppers
The Holy Lamb wool topper is a great choice if you are looking for an organic topper.
The Holy Lamb topper consists of organic wool batting and an organic cotton cover. Similar to the PlushBeds topper, each Holy Lamb topper is handcrafted to guarantee the best quality.
Pros
- All-organic.
- Excellent temperature regulation.
- Exceptional handmade quality.
- Made in the USA.
Cons
- Not machine washable.
- Expensive.
- 10% return fee.
Our Review
The construction of the Holy Lamb wool topper is similar to that of the PlushBeds topper – wool batting and cotton cover.
All materials, including the wool and cover, are organic. Furthermore, they are handcrafted to ensure the best quality. Each topper is handmade in Oakville, Washington.
As you'd expect from a wool and cotton topper, temperature regulation is not an issue. The cotton cover maintains a breathable surface and wicks away moisture while the wool interior cools you when it's hot and insulates you when it gets cold.
Issues & Limitations
The Holy Lamb wool topper is expensive. If you are shopping for a budget wool topper, we recommend the Perfect Fit wool topper we reviewed earlier.
Unlike PlushBeds, Holy Lamb accepts returns. However, there's a 10% restocking fee. We'd prefer free returns, but 10% is better than no returns at all.
Bottom Line
If you prefer organic bedding, whether it's your mattress, bedsheets, or topper, the Holy Lamb wool topper is the perfect addition to your bed.
7. Best Budget: OrganicTextiles Australian Wool Mattress Topper
Looking for an affordable wool mattress topper? We recommend the OrganicTextiles Australian wool mattress topper.
It’s not as thick and plush as other wool toppers, but the price is one of the lowest you’ll find when shopping for a wool mattress topper.
Pros
- Affordable.
- Good for hot sleepers and night sweats.
- Great for softening a firm mattress.
- Organic cotton cover.
Cons
- Not as plush as other pricier wool toppers.
Our Review
Natural wool toppers can be pretty pricey. The OrganicTextiles Australian wool topper is one of the few affordable ones in the market.
It’s still several times more expensive than a memory foam or microfiber topper, but it’s not as pricey as most other brands.
The reason it’s cheaper is that it’s thinner. It’s less than an inch thick. It’s more of a mattress pad than a mattress topper.
We recommend it for softening a medium firm to a firm mattress. It adds just a bit of softness without affecting support.
It is especially ideal for back sleepers and stomach sleepers.
The OrganicTextiles Australian wool topper is also a great choice for hot sleepers. The 100% natural wool filling and the organic cotton cover provide cooling and sweat-wicking.
The OrganicTextiles Australian wool topper comes with elastics for securing it around the mattress.
While the topper is small enough to fit in a large washer, we do not recommend machine washing or even dry cleaning. Wool is delicate and could get permanently lumpy.
Instead, get an additional cover for the topper and wash that instead.
Alternatively, only spot clean stains and dirt on the topper with cold water and mild detergent.
Issues & Limitations
If you want a thick and plush wool topper that you sink into, the OrganicTextiles Australian wool topper is not what you are looking for.
Get a thicker topper like Avocado Green or PlushBeds.
The thin profile of the OrganicTextiles Australian wool topper also makes it less than ideal for side sleepers who find their mattresses too firm. The topper may not provide adequate pressure relief.
Bottom Line
The OrganicTextiles Australian wool mattress topper is a great choice for anyone shopping for a budget wool topper.
Avoid it if you are shopping for a thick and plush wool topper.
8. Best For Deep Pressure Relief: Savvy Rest Harmony Mattress Topper
A wool-only topper only provides minimal pressure relief. It’s great if you want to slightly soften a mattress that feels a bit too firm.
But if you need deep pressure relief (necessary if you are a side sleeper or you have a very hard mattress), we recommend the Savvy Rest Harmony Talalay latex and wool mattress topper.
Pros
- All-natural.
- Combines wool & soft latex for excellent body contouring.
- Sleeps cool.
- Great for very firm mattresses & side sleepers.
- Comes with an organic cotton cover.
Cons
- Expensive.
Our Review
The latex and wool Avocado Green mattress topper is great if you need support. But if what you need most is deep pressure relief to reduce aches and pains on your body, the Savvy Rest Harmony topper is a better pick.
For one, it’s made with Talalay latex, which has a softer more pliant feel compared to the Dunlop latex used in Avocado Green (Savvy Rest also sells a cheaper Dunlop latex topper).
The Savvy Rest topper is also thicker at 4”, which provides a deeper body hug. It’s especially great for side sleepers and those who are struggling with a rock hard mattress.
The Savvy Rest topper consists of a core of natural Talalay latex surrounded by an organic casing. The casing consists of an organic cotton cover and organic wool batting.
The wool adds to the plushness of the topper and helps with temperature and moisture regulation.
You can choose from three firmness levels: soft, medium and firm. For the best pressure relief, we recommend soft or medium.
The medium option is ideal for heavier sleepers who need a bit more support in addition to pressure relief.
Get the soft one if you want as much plushness as you can get in a topper.
Issues & Limitations
The Savvy Rest Harmony topper is expensive. It costs about twice as much as the Avocado Green topper despite them having roughly the same construction.
Probably what makes the Harmony topper more expensive is that it’s thicker. The Avocado Green topper is 2.75” thick while the Harmony topper is 4” thick.
Also, the Savvy Rest Harmony topper uses the more expensive Talalay latex (though their Dunlop latex topper is also pricey).
Bottom Line
If you are looking for a luxury mattress topper that cuddles your body and provides deep pressure relief, the Savvy Rest Harmony topper is the best choice.
It is expensive, but the luxury comfort is worth it.
9. Best Wool Mattress Protector: Woolroom Chatsworth British Wool Mattress Protector
Polyester mattress protectors are great but they can make your bed uncomfortably hot. If you want a mattress protector that shields your mattress from dirt and stains while keeping you cool, we recommend the Woolroom Chatsworth British wool mattress protector.
Pros
- Made from 100% British wool.
- Protects mattress from dirt, allergens and stains.
- Keeps you cool and sweat-free.
- 18 inch deep skirt to keep mattress secured.
- Machine washable.
Cons
- Only adds a little bit of cushioning to the mattress – not ideal for those who want to make their firm mattress softer.
- It’s not waterproof.
Our Review
This is a 2-in-1 wool mattress pad and protector. It adds some cushioning to your mattress and also protects it from dirt and stains.
Because it’s thin, it’s a lot cheaper than regular wool mattress toppers.
The Woolroom mattress protector is made from 100% British wool sourced from the Chartsworth Estate (a huge working farm in central England). It doesn't contain any chemicals or synthetic fibers.
The outer cover and the elastic skirt are made from 100% organic cotton.
The Woolroom mattress protector works like any other protector. Place it on your bed and tuck the skirt under your mattress to keep the protector in place. The skirt is 18” deep, so it’ll easily fit tall and pillowtop mattresses.
Unfortunately, it’s not waterproof. The manufacturer says it can stop small amounts of liquid from reaching the mattress, but if there’s too much liquid (e.g. bedwetting), it’ll go through the wool pad.
The Woolroom mattress protector is more suited to keeping out dirt, stains and allergens from your mattress.
Unlike most wool mattress pads and toppers, the Woolroom mattress protector is machine washable. If it gets dirty, put it in the washer on a wool or delicate cycle and a spin of 800 RPM or less. Make sure you use wool detergent.
Do not tumble dry; it should only be line dried.
As for comfort, the Woolroom mattress protector adds a bit of cushioning to your mattress, but not much. It’s great if you need to soften your mattress just a bit.
Issues & Limitations
If you are looking for a thick wool mattress topper that provides deep pressure relief, the Woolroom mattress protector is not it. It’s just a thin pad.
It’s also not the best choice if you are shopping for a waterproof mattress protector. We did not find any waterproof wool mattress protector, so you’ll have to go with a regular cotton or polyester protector if you want 100% liquid protection.
Bottom Line
The Woolroom Chatsworth wool mattress protector is a great choice if you want a water resistant mattress protector that keeps you cool when it’s hot and feels warm and cozy when it’s cold.
10. Best Wool Mattress Cover: Down Under Premium Australian Pure Sheep Wool Fitted Mattress Cover
The Down Under wool fitted mattress cover is another good choice if you are looking for a thin mattress pad that will protect your mattress.
It’s made from 100% wool and fits mattresses up to 15” thick.
Pros
- 2-in-1 mattress pad and cover.
- Great temperature regulation – keeps you comfy whether it’s hot or cold.
- Protects the mattress from dirt and stains.
- Machine washable.
Cons
- Not waterproof.
- Not ideal for those looking for a thick wool topper.
- Uses polyester for the cover and skirt, instead of the more breathable cotton.
Our Review
While the Woolroom Chatsworth mattress protector is made with British wool, the Down Under mattress cover is made with Australian wool.
It’s pure sheep wool fleece without any synthetic fibers.
The Down Under mattress cover is only 0.5” thick, so it only adds a bit of cushioning to your mattress. But it’s great if you are a hot or cold sleeper.
Wool is great at temperature regulation. It keeps you cool when it’s hot and keeps the bed warm when it’s cold.
The Down Under mattress pad also doubles up as a mattress protector. It’s not waterproof but it’ll stop small amounts of moisture from getting through to the mattress. It also keeps out allergens, dirt and stains.
You can throw the Down Under mattress cover into the washer. Just make sure you follow the cleaning instructions.
Issues & Limitations
As with the Woolroom mattress protector, the Down Under mattress cover doesn’t provide deep pressure relief. Don’t get it if you are looking for a thick and plush wool mattress topper.
Also, keep in mind that it’s not waterproof. It only keeps out small amounts of moisture.
Unlike the Woolroom mattress protector that’s all-natural (wool and organic cotton cover), the Down Under mattress cover is only partially natural. The wool is natural, but the outer cover and skirt are polyester.
Bottom Line
The Down Under mattress cover does a lot more than just protect your mattress from pollutants and stains. It creates a healthier sleeping environment and ensures you sleep comfortably regardless of the season.
11. Best Wool Crib Mattress Topper: Sleep & Beyond myDual Crib Mattress Pad
If you are looking for a natural mattress topper for your baby, a wool topper or pad is a great choice.
Not only is wool natural, it is also hypoallergenic, naturally flame retardant and provides great moisture and temperature control to keep your little one cozy.
The Sleep & Beyond myDual crib mattress pad features a two-sided design for comfort all year round.
Pros
- Two-sided reversible design.
- Made with natural wool and cotton.
- Elastic straps to secure it to the mattress.
- Machine washable.
Cons
- Pricey compared to foam crib mattress toppers.
Our Review
The Sleep & Beyond myDual is a thin wool pad, so don’t worry that it’s too thick for the crib, which would be dangerous.
The Sleep & Beyond pad creates a safe and natural sleep environment for your child. Wool is naturally hypoallergenic, doesn't have any harmful chemicals and it’s mold and mildew resistant.
Another big benefit of using the myDual crib mattress pad is temperature control. Babies can be sensitive to temperature changes; they struggle to sleep if it’s too hot or cold.
The Sleep & Beyond wool crib pad maintains the perfect sleep temperature all-year round. When it’s hot, it increases airflow, which keeps your little one cool.
When it’s cold, the wool turns into an insulator, conserving body heat.
For even better all-year comfort, the myDual pad is reversible. One side has a wool fleece surface that’s perfect for cold weather. The other side is made with cotton and it’s great for keeping your baby cool when it’s hot.
Tip: You can also enjoy the two-sided comfort of the Sleep & Beyond myDual topper. It’s available in larger sizes from Twin to Cal King.
The Sleep & Beyond myDual crib mattress pad measures 28 by 52 inches. It comes with straps for securing it to the crib mattress.
It is machine washable, so don't worry about keeping it clean.
Note that the myDual crib mattress pad is not waterproof, so you may want to use a waterproof mattress protector along with the wool pad.
Issues & Limitations
Because it’s made from natural wool, the myDual crib mattress pad is more expensive than a cotton or microfiber crib mattress pad.
It’s probably not what you are looking for if you are shopping for a cheap crib topper or pad.
Bottom Line
If you prefer natural bedding for your baby, add the Sleep & Beyond myDual crib mattress topper to your shopping list.
It makes the crib mattress more comfortable and helps keep your baby healthy.
Wool Mattress Topper Buying Guide
Who Should Buy A Wool Mattress Topper
- Hot sleepers looking for a mattress topper or pad that will help them sleep cool.
- Women experiencing hot flashes.
- Anyone who sweats a lot at night. Wool is really good at wicking away sweat.
- Sleepers looking for a mattress topper that will feel comfortable throughout the year. Wool provides all-season temperature regulation. It cools you when it’s hot and insulates you when it’s cold.
- Sleepers who prefer natural or organic bedding. Other than down and latex, wool is the only other natural material used to make mattress toppers.
- Anyone looking to add a bit of softness to their firm mattress. A wool topper will soften your mattress without affecting support. In other words, you’ll sleep better without bottoming out.
- Anyone looking to create a healthier sleeping environment. Wool is naturally hypoallergenic. Thanks to its excellent moisture regulation, it also reduces the risk of mold and mildew growth in your mattress or bed.
Why Use Wool Mattress Toppers
Another advantage of wool toppers over memory foam and fiberfill toppers is that they are usually more environmentally friendly.
Most manufacturers harvest the wool sustainably from sheep and process it without adding harsh chemicals.
In fact, most of the wool toppers you’ll come across are labeled as either natural or organic. Most come with an organic cotton cover.
Not only are these wool toppers better for the environment, but they are also healthier for you and your family.
How to Choose A Good Wool Mattress Topper?
Thickness & Comfort
The first thing to check is how thick the wool mattress topper is.
Thicker wool toppers are typically softer, plusher and more luxurious. They are also more expensive.
Thick wool mattress toppers (1.5” to 3”) are great for those who want to sink into their mattress.
They are especially suitable for softening a firm or extra-firm mattress and adding more pressure relief for side sleepers and heavy sleepers.
Thin wool mattress toppers (1” or less) are great if you are on a budget. While not as plush, a thin wool topper can still make your bed much more comfortable.
A thinner wool topper is ideal if you want to soften your mattress without losing out on support (e.g. if you are a back or stomach sleeper).
It’s also the best choice for a medium or medium-firm mattress. It will not make the bed overly soft and ‘sinky’.
If you have a soft mattress but still want to enjoy the benefits of wool, get a combined latex and wool topper. Currently, the only one we know of is sold by Avocado Green.
Latex provides the support while wool cuddles your pressure points.
Alternatively, you can just get a latex mattress topper without the wool at a lower price.
Price
With every type of topper, quality matters. The level of comfort, support, and longevity will be reflected in the price.
Select the highest quality topper your budget will allow.
Keep in mind, however, that a higher price doesn't necessarily guarantee comfort. Choose a topper that meets your needs. Don't simply buy the most expensive you can afford.
For example, a thick plush topper will be more expensive. But if you prefer a lower loft with good support, you'll find the topper uncomfortable.
Natural/Organic
Next, decide if you want a natural or organic wool topper. If you do, expect to pay more. Natural/organic wool toppers can cost as much as $500 for a queen size.
If you are on a budget, look for a mixed-material wool topper. The topper will have natural wool combined with synthetic materials like polyester and down alternative. You still get the benefits of wool but at a lower price.
Ease of cleaning
Many wool toppers, especially organic toppers, are not machine washable. You can only spot clean the topper.
To keep the topper clean, you'll need to buy an extra washable cover.
If you want an easy to maintain washable wool topper, you'll have to settle for a mixed-material topper. Wool toppers with a polyester or cotton backing are usually safe for a washing machine.
What are the benefits and drawbacks of wool mattress toppers?
Pros
- Plush comfort – good for pressure-point relief.
- Good temperature regulation for year-round comfort.
- Hypoallergenic and dust mite resistant
- Fire resistant
- Easy to find natural/organic options.
- Lasts long, with good care.
Cons
- Natural or organic wool toppers are expensive.
- Some people don't like the initial wool smell.
- Natural wool toppers are typically not machine washable.
Cleaning and Maintaining A Wool Mattress Topper
Wool mattress toppers are delicate and require careful cleaning and care.
Generally, you should never wash a wool mattress topper even if you have a washing machine large enough to fit the topper into.
It’s easy for the wool to clump, permanently damaging and expensive topper.
Even if the manufacturer says it is okay to machine wash, it’s still too risky. Even dry cleaning is not a good idea.
In other words, you should never wash your wool mattress topper.
Instead, only spot clean any spots and stains on it using cold water and mild detergent. Even better, get a cover for it.
The cover protects the topper from dirt and stains, and you can easily machine wash the cover.
Another tip is to place a wool topper under a mattress protector. It’ll prevent moisture damage in addition to keeping out dirt and stains.
Regularly air the wool mattress topper by spreading it in an airy room or outside under a shade. This will release any moisture trapped in the wool and freshen the topper.
If you have to wash a wool topper, check what the care label recommends. You’ll need detergent specifically made for wool fabrics.
FAQs
Does a mattress topper go under the sheet?
The best way to set up a mattress topper is to put it under the sheet. This has two advantages: it keeps the topper from shifting and protects it from dirt and stains.
If you have a mattress protector, the topper should also go under it.
Is a wool mattress topper good for back pain?
Because it’s soft, wool mattress toppers are generally not the best toppers for back pain. They don't provide adequate support (see our reviews of the best mattress toppers for back pain).
For back pain relief, you’ll need a firmer mattress topper made from latex or memory foam.
That said, a thin wool mattress topper can reduce back pain if your current mattress is too firm. A thin topper provides just the right amount of pressure relief to reduce pressure on your back and correct spinal alignment.
How long does a wool mattress topper last?
When well maintained, a wool mattress topper can last 10 years or more.
Unlike microfiber and foam toppers, wool toppers don't lose their loft. So the topper doesn't get thinner over time.
If it begins to compress you simply fluff and air it to make it puffy again.
What type of mattress do I need to use?
Wool mattress toppers are ideal for any type of mattress, including foam, latex, innerspring, and air mattresses.
You can even place a wool topper on a futon or sleeper sofa.
Are wool mattress toppers suitable for babies?
Because babies need a firm sleeping surface, we do not recommend a wool mattress topper for a crib mattress. The soft topper can be a suffocation risk.
But for toddlers from around two years, a wool mattress topper is perfectly safe. It'll help them sleep better without getting too hot or cold.
Do wool mattress toppers have an odor?
Like most natural materials, wool has a natural odor. The smell is more noticeable when the topper is brand new. As soon as you get your wool topper, take the plastic wrap off immediately and air it out. The longer it airs out, the less noticeable the odor will be.
How to clean a wool mattress topper?
The easiest way to care for your natural wool topper is by airing it every day.
Remove your bed covers and allow the most active areas of your topper to breathe. Letting your topper air out daily allows it to release moisture and stay fresh.
Remember to flip your topper regularly. This will allow it to wear evenly and resist body impressions.
When it comes to washing, wool should always be cleaned with care. Follow label instructions from the manufacturer. It may specify only spot cleaning or dry cleaning.
Avoid hot water and hot drying when washing. Wool fibers will shrink and turn lumpy if exposed to heat over time.
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