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Is your current mattress not cutting it, but the thought of dropping a ton of cash on a new one makes you wanna vom? We’ve all been there. A mattress is a pretty major investment. Picking the right one also requires a ton of research and patience and not everybody’s got time for that.

Enter: mattress toppers. The right mattress topper can give your shut-eye a major glow-up without spending a ton of money. We dug into what makes a mattress topper a good one and picked our 15 faves. Keep reading to learn more about the best toppers on the market.

We did a lot of research to pick the best mattress toppers. Some criteria may be more important to you than others, so keep that in mind as you scroll. But here’s everything we looked at when making our picks:

  • Price. We included a range of prices to meet any budget.
  • Durability and quality of materials. TBH, there’s no point in buying any bedding if it doesn’t last.
  • Customer reviews. We only picked products real customers love.
  • Firmness levels. We included a range of firmness levels — from firm to ultra-plush — because everyone likes something different.
  • Ease of care and maintenance. We included picks that you can throw right in the washing machine because life gets messy.
  • Company and manufacturer reputation. Our picks are only from companies and manufacturers known for making quality products.
  • Sustainability. We made sure to include options for all our sustainable baddies out there.
  • Wellness factors. We picked some mattress toppers that take your health and wellness into account — like ones with hypoallergenic materials or made for people with back pain.

Types of mattress toppers

Here’s a quick rundown of the types of toppers out there.

  • Memory foam. It’s squishy, supportive, and retains its shape, BUT some people say lying in it feels like sinking into quicksand.
  • Down. Feels cloud-like, and is ideal for staying cozy during the winter. BUT it’s also an animal product (so def not vegan) and can get pretty warm.
  • Latex. Like memory foam, latex provides loads of pressure relief for your tired bones. Unlike memory foam, latex is friendlier to the environment and is a lot more responsive. No quicksand feels here!
  • Down-alternative. No animals were harmed in the making of this type of mattress topper. Down-alternative is also cheaper. The downside? (Yes, pun intended!!!) It’s not as warm as real down.
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What’s the cost of better sleep?

Price ranges are based on the cost of queen-size toppers.

  • $ = under $100
  • $$ = $100–$300
  • $$$ = over $300

Drumroll, please! (But keep it down. We’re trying to sleep. 😉 )

Best mattress topper overall

LUCID 3 Inch Gel Memory Foam — Cooling Targeted Convoluted Comfort Zones mattress topper

  • Price: $
  • Available sizes: twin, twin XL, full, full XL, queen, king, California king
  • Thickness: 2 or 3 inches

The MVP of mattress toppers has five foam zones that provide different levels of support for various parts of the body. This can help relieve pressure points for a comfier snooze cruise.

This topper is made with CertiPUR-US certified memory foam. That means it’s tested for content, performance, and environmental stewardship. It also has a cooling gel infusion that’ll stave off the sweats. And hey, it’s hypoallergenic!

The only con is that it has to be spot-cleaned. (But TBH, that’s the case with all foam memory toppers.)

Best high tech mattress topper

Sleep Number DualTemp Individual Layer

  • Price: $$$
  • Available sizes: half queen, half king, half California king
  • Thickness: 1 inch

Here’s a high tech solution to your temperature troubles. This topper turns your bed into a climate-controlled environment. It comes only in half sizes, which means you and your sleeping buddy won’t have to fight over the controls. Reviewers say it helps with hot flashes and night sweats.

Just a heads-up: Some folks aren’t stoked about the fan and hose attachment. But don’t worry — Sleep Number gives you a 30-night trial period.

Best cooling mattress topper

Sealy 4-inch SealyChill Gel + Comfort Pillowtop Memory Foam Mattress Topper

  • Price: $$
  • Available sizes: twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
  • Thickness: 4 inches

This topper rocks a 3-inch memory foam layer that’s infused with cooling gel. The down alternative pillowtop cover is machine washable, so your bed can always feel fresh. It’s also comforting to know Sealy’s been making products in the United States since 1889.

Achoo no more: Best hypoallergenic mattress topper

Duck and Goose 3-Inch Down Alternative Mattress Topper

  • Price: $
  • Available sizes: twin, twin XL, full, full XL, queen, short queen, king, California king
  • Thickness: 3 inches

Get a great sleep for cheap with this down alternative mattress topper. It’s the best option if you have allergies or a sensitive nose. The hypoallergenic microfiber filling is sewn into a breathable cotton cover, so you shouldn’t get too 🥵.

Pro tip: Throw it in the dryer on tumble to fluff up the fibers and make it extra comfy.

Best breathable mattress topper

Sleep & Beyond Organic Merino Wool Mattress Topper

  • Price: $$$
  • Available sizes: twin, full, queen, king, California king
  • Thickness: 1.5 inches

Natural materials tend to be the most breathable. That’s why this topper is so terrific. It’s made from merino wool and has a cozy cotton cover. It’s not treated with chemicals and is hypoallergenic.

Reviewers say it adds a nice cool layer to mattresses that trap a lot of heat. It should also keep you warm in colder months.

Washing PSA: Even though wool is durable, this specific topper isn’t machine washable. A washable cover is recommended.

Most luxurious mattress topper

Pacific Coast Down on Top Feather Bed

  • Price: $$$
  • Available sizes: twin, full, queen, king, California king
  • Thickness: 3 inches

This topper is your ticket to a chic sleep. It has an added layer of super soft down feathers for ultimate comfort. The cover is 100 percent cotton and is designed to prevent pokes from feathers. The company also offers a 30-night trial to make sure you want to commit to a new feathered friend.

FYI: This topper needs a bit of maintenance. You’ll want to fluff and rotate it on the reg. It can only be spot- or dry-cleaned.

Best mattress topper for comfort and support

Rest Haven 3 Inch Zoned Gel Memory Foam Mattress Topper

  • Price: $
  • Available sizes: twin, twin XL, full, full XL, queen, king, California king
  • Thickness: 2 or 3 inches

This topper was designed to help you relax to the max. The 3-inch version is ultra-plush. It has raised zones to support each part of your body and relieve pressure. It’s also infused with cooling gel, so you get the perf temp for your sleep sesh.

Best organic and sustainable mattress topper

Avocado Green Organic Latex Mattress Topper

  • Price: $$$
  • Available sizes: twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
  • Thickness: 2 inches

Avocado products are nontoxic and green-friendly. The mattress toppers are made from organic latex sourced from the company’s rubber tree farms in India. They’re assembled in California and have a wool layer and cotton cover. (There’s a vegan option if you’re not into wool.)

Avocado offers a generous 1-year trial and 10-year warranty. Woot!

Best down alternative mattress topper

Parachute Home Down Alternative Mattress Topper

  • Price: $$
  • Available sizes: twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
  • Thickness: 3 inches

Not a fan of feathers? This American-made topper has you covered. It’s made of two layers of hypoallergenic microfiber fill and encased in a 100 percent sateen cotton shell. Reviewers love its soft feel and say sleeping on it is truly heavenly.

Bonus: Parachute offers a 3-year warranty!

Best memory foam mattress topper

Linenspa 3 Inch Gel Infused Memory Foam Mattress Topper

  • Price: $
  • Available sizes: twin, twin XL, full, full XL, queen, king, California king
  • Thickness: 3 inches

This topper’s 3 inches of memory foam will hug the natural curves of your bod, giving you a cushy snooze. It’s also infused with temperature-regulating gel beads so you’ll stay comfy all year round.

This mattress topper has more than 60,000 ratings on Amazon and an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars. ⭐ That’s a lot of satisfied sleepers!

Most supportive mattress topper

Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Topper Supreme

  • Price: $$$
  • Available sizes: twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
  • Thickness: 3 inches

This medium-firm topper gives you more support than some of the fluffier options. It comes with a removable, machine washable cover. Many reviewers note that the supportive topper improved their back pain.

Tempur-Pedic claims its proprietary foam is more durable than other memory foam products. We’ll give the company the benefit of the doubt since it offers a 10-year warranty. Plus, people tend to obsess over and stay loyal to the company’s products.

Best value mattress topper

Allswell 4-Inch Memory Foam Mattress Topper

  • Price: $$
  • Available sizes: twin, full, king, queen
  • Thickness: 4 inches

This topper is 4 inches thick with two separate layers of foam: one softer and one firmer. It’s also infused with copper gel, which is supposed cool your jets and deter microbes from moving in. Tons of reviewers say it’s super comfortable, but some say it doesn’t sleep quite as cool as Allswell claims. BUT you get 30 days to try it — so you can return it if you don’t end up loving it.

Best scented mattress topper👃

Lucid Lavender Infused Memory Foam Mattress Topper

  • Price: $
  • Available sizes: twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
  • Thickness: 3 inches

Pretend you’re sleeping in lavender fields with this aromatherapy topper. The lavender scent comes from essential oils. The relaxing fragrance may help calm you down so you can snooze more comfortably.

Refresh: Lucid suggests using a lavender spray if the scent fades over time.

Best mattress topper for pain relief

Sure2Sleep Gel Swirl Memory Foam Mattress Topper

  • Price: $
  • Available sizes: twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
  • Thickness: 2 or 3 inches

You should never wake up feeling like you took a bedtime beating. This topper might help you start a new day with fewer aches and pains. You can opt for a 2- or 3-inch topper — the 3-inch version has an added layer that conforms to your body and relieves pressure points (though this costs extra).

The memory foam is swirled with gel for a cooler sleep experience. It’s made in the United States and comes with a 30-night trial and 3-year warranty.

Best splurge mattress topper

Simmons Curv 4.5-Inch Memory Foam Mattress Topper

  • Price: $$
  • Available sizes: twin, full, queen, king, California king
  • Thickness: 4.5 inches

Treat yo’self with this two-in-one topper. It boasts a 3-inch memory foam layer covered by a fluffy 1.5-inch down alternative layer. It’s medium-firm and hypoallergenic. The fiber-filled top layer has deep sides, so it won’t slip off your mattress.

Simmons has been making mattresses in the United States for 150 years. So it’s safe to say they know what they’re doing.

Well you could get them all and pile them to the ceiling like you’re in The Princess and the Pea. But if you have to choose one, here’s how:

  • Pick a few criteria that matter most to you. Think price, cooling, sustainability, luxury, and good reviews.
  • Set a budget to narrow down the options. And it’s always a good idea to keep your eyes open for sales. 👀
  • Think about thickness. Thicker toppers tend to be the softest. Also look out for “plush,” or “ultra-plush.” If you want to feel like you’re melting into your bed, a softer thick topper is the way to go.
  • Don’t forget about firmness. Is your mattress too hard for your liking? Can’t afford a new one? A plush mattress topper can transform your rock-hard mattress into something a little cozier.
  • Stay cool. Are you a hot sleeper? Look for toppers made with materials that wick sweat and control temperature.
  • Keep an eye out for certifications. Is the topper you’re eyeing made of organic materials? Check for a certified organic seal. Want to avoid stinky off-gassing odors? Look for certifications like CertiPUR-US, which means that the foam is less likely to emit a foul stench.
  • Peep the care instructions. Is the topper machine washable? If not, are you willing to lug it to the dry cleaner or take the time to spot clean?
  • Play it safe. Look for brands that offer trial periods and extended warranties.

Here’s why you might want to buy a mattress topper for your bed:

  • Your mattress will last longer. A topper acts as a protective layer between you and your mattress. The extra cushion helps prevent premature wear and tear.
  • It’ll keep your mattress clean. You can toss your topper in the wash but throwing your whole mattress in there? Yeah, not gonna happen. A topper protects your mattress from stains and odors, so you don’t have to worry about spot cleaning.
  • It’s comfy AF. You know those amazing bedding displays in department stores? Beds with layers upon layers of fluffy goodness that you can’t resist falling onto? Stores achieve this look and feel with the help of thick mattress toppers.
  • You’ll save $$$. A mattress topper is hella cheaper than a whole mattress. But adding one to your bed can still make a world of difference in the comfort department.

Do you have a hard time falling or staying asleep? You’re not alone. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 31.6 percent of American adults don’t get enough sleep.

Insomnia, why are you so obsessed with me?

There are lots of possible reasons you’re not getting good sleep:

  • stress
  • illness
  • discomfort
  • medications
  • noise or light in the room
  • a change in your shift at work
  • drinking booze or eating before bed
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Thankfully, there are easy solutions to help you slay sleep on the daily… er, nightly. Here are some products that can help you catch those Zzz’s:

Blue light glasses

The screens of your fave devices (phone, computer, TV) emit blue light, which can inhibit melatonin and put a damper on your downtime. There isn’t enough clinical research out there to say that wearing blue-light-blocking glasses will definitely improve your sleep, but they might be able to help you get some better shut eye. 😴

Earplugs

Maybe traffic noise or a partner’s snoring is keeping you up. Gift yourself the sound of silence for better sleep.

Eye mask

Your circadian rhythms tell you to sleep at night, so it can be hard to hit the hay if your room isn’t dark. An eye mask will help block out light leaks.

Silk pillowcase

Who knows if they actually prevent wrinkles, but silk sheets are soft AF and can help you sleep better. They’re soothing and will keep you cool throughout the night. Bonus: They may even help prevent acne.

Linen sheets

Let it breathe, people! Linen is a popular material for desert attire for a reason, and it’ll keep you cool and comfy all night long.

Aromatherapy spray

Aromatherapy may improve sleep quality, so why not? Lavender is most often cited for its relaxing effects. Blends with chamomile and vanilla are also 💯. Just make sure you’re buying products with real essential oils listed on the ingredients list, not artificial “fragrances.”

White noise machine

Feeling distracted by ongoing construction outside your window or your roommate’s loud TV? White noise can help drown out those loud environmental noises around you so you can focus on actually falling asleep.

Here are some common Qs (and their answers!) that come up about mattress toppers.

How much does a mattress topper cost?

It varies. But overall, a mattress topper costs wayyyy less than a brand new mattress. On the low end, toppers cost about $100 with some high end options going for up to $500.

How do I care for a mattress topper?

Ideally, you’ll find a topper that’s machine washable (or has a machine washable cover) so you can pop it in the washing machine whenever it needs a refresh. Just never put foam in the washing machine! If you need to clean an all-foam topper, stick to spot cleaning it.

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

A mattress protector usually won’t have any extra materials to change the feel of your mattress. They’re designed to protect your mattress and can either encase the entire thing (good for keeping out bed bugs and dust mites), cover the top and sides of the mattress, or just protect the top.

A pad adds a thin layer of material to the top of your bed, usually making it feel softer. You put it on much like you would a fitted sheet, tucking the ends under your mattress.

A topper is a piece of material that you put right over your mattress. It’s usually held in place by a fitted sheet. Toppers are thicker than pads and help prolong the life of your mattress. They can also impact the overall firmness and feel of it.

Kinda confusing, right?

tl;dr: a protector doesn’t add any extra padding, a pad provides softness but no added support, and a topper can change the literal feel of your mattress and deliver support.

Do mattress toppers protect mattresses?

Yep! They protect mattresses from spills, stains, and odors. They also reduce wear and tear. Ideally, you’d pair a topper with a mattress protector for maximum protection.

A meh mattress can be cured with the right topper. Just take a bit of time to figure out what you’re looking for. You’ll eventually find the mattress topper of your dreams. Goodnight! 😴