Best Overall
Sleep Innovations Memory Foam Mattress Topper
What We Like
Dual-layer design
Extremely comfortable and cushioning
Stays in place on bed
Ten-year warranty
What We Don't Like
Cooling abilities are lessened by top layer
The Sleep Innovations Gel Memory Foam Mattress Topper impressed us in testing. This unique topper is actually made up of two layers: It has a 2-inch gel memory foam layer, as well as a 2-inch pillow topper that has a built-in skirt similar to a mattress pad. Not only does this design ensure the topper stays in place on your bed, but we absolutely loved how the two layers felt.
The topper provided the perfect amount of cushioning without being too fluffy, and the top layer made it more comfortable than a standard memory foam topper. We ultimately gave it a perfect rating for its cushioning capabilities.
This mattress topper is easy to arrange on a bed, but we found the gel memory foam has a sticky feel. Luckily, the top layer covers the foam so you don’t have to deal with the unpleasant texture. We found that it offers just the right amount of support and comfort, without being too plush or too firm.
One downside we noticed with this mattress topper is that the cooling effects of the gel memory foam are lessened due to the polyester-filled pillow topper. It wasn’t the warmest mattress topper we tested, but the surface temperature did increase several degrees when someone laid on it for five minutes. However, you can always pair it with some cooling sheets to help mitigate that issue.
Material: Gel memory foam | Height: 4 inches | Sizes: Twin, Full, Queen, King, Cal King | Certifications: CertiPUR-US | Return Policy: Dependent on retailer plus 10-year warranty
Orig.$100$82 at AmazonOrig.$135$88 at Home DepotView on Lucidmattress.com
What We Like
Firmer level of support
Responsive foam
Ventilation holes provide airy feel
What We Don't Like
Noticeable off-gassing
For a more budget-friendly option, the Lucid Memory Foam Mattress Topper provides a firm yet comfortable surface to sleep on. It’s made from an open-cell gel memory foam that allows air to pass through, and in our testing, we liked that it felt airy and breathable (though it did feel slightly tacky to the touch).
The topper has a firmer texture than other options we tested, making it a good choice for side sleepers or anyone who needs a more supportive sleep surface.
This mattress topper did have an odor after unboxing, so we gave it the recommended 48-hour off-gassing period before testing it. It was the perfect size for our testing mattress. While we were able to see lumps when objects were placed underneath the topper, we didn’t feel any discomfort when lying down.
We tested the 3-inch version of this mattress topper, but it also comes in a 2-inch foam option as well. The material is CertiPUR-US certified, and the manufacturer offers a three-year warranty.
Material:Gel memory foam | Height:3 inches | Sizes:Twin, twin XL, full, full XL, queen, king, California king | Certifications:CertiPUR-US | Return Policy:Dependent on retailer plus three-year warranty
Most Comfortable
Tempur-Pedic Tempur Adapt+ Mattress Topper
What We Like
Soft, plush feel
Body-molding memory foam
Provides pressure relief
What We Don’t Like
Doesn’t deliver on cooling promise
May be too soft for some
With Tempur-Pedic’s TEMPUR-Adapt Mattress Topper, you can take your mattress from basic to luxurious. This thick 3-inch topper is constructed out of memory foam, which offers a sink-in feel when you first lay down as it conforms to your shape and warms up to respond to your body.
We love how it cradled our pressure points and provided comfort-enhancing pressure relief across our body, and it felt great in every sleeping position–back, side, and stomach. Within a few minutes, we found the topper conformed to our shape and offered a plush, soft, cushiony feel that almost enveloped us. Best of all, it was so thick and comfortable that we couldn’t feel the bumpy acupressure mat we placed underneath at all.
Our only real issue with this plush and cushy memory foam mattress topper is its cooling capability. While the topper is touted as breathable and cooling for warm or hot sleepers, with the promise of keeping sleepers up to 8 degrees cooler, we didn’t find that it offered any real cooling effect in our testing. It stayed pretty much the same temperature as our body night after night.
Additionally, during our long-term testing, we discovered that the welcoming soft feel of this topper may pose problems for some sleepers. Because it runs so soft, it isn't the best choice for those with aches or pains, as the lack of support may exacerbate existing issues.
Material: Knit fabric cover, memory foam topper | Height: 3 inches | Sizes: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king | Certifications: None | Return Policy: No returns accepted
Best Cooling
Cozy Earth Bamboo Mattress Pad
What We Like
Cooling bamboo viscose material
Easy to get onto mattress
Works for regular and deep pocket mattresses
What We Don’t Like
Not very plush
If you aren’t looking for a whole lot of additional cushioning on your current mattress, Cozy Earth’s Bamboo Mattress Pad is a great option—and we especially like this product for hot sleepers. We were immediately impressed by the softness of this mattress pad, and it felt cool to the touch when we first began using it.
Made out of premium viscose bamboo, it’s designed to be incredibly soft, and we found it easy to get onto the mattress in our testing. Thanks to the lightweight, airy nature of the bamboo fabric, it can help lower your temperature while asleep with enhanced breathability and airflow.
It’s important to note, however, that this isn’t a true topper. Rather, it’s a pad, which means it’s thinner and doesn’t offer inches of extra cushioning or support. However, if you want something that’ll help lower your body temperature and stay breathable and cool to the touch, you can add this Cozy Earth pick to the list of products to help yousleep cooler, particularly in the summer.
Although its price is high, those seeking a soft in-between layer will find it meets the bill.
Material: Premium viscose from bamboo | Height: Not listed | Sizes: Twin, full, queen, king, Cal king | Certifications: Not listed | Return Policy: Within 100 days
Are Mattress Toppers Washable?
Some mattress toppers come with machine-washable covers that make them easier to clean, and certain down or down alternative options can be machine washed, as well. However, foam toppers can’t be put in the washing machine, but there are ways to clean and care for them, such as hand washing using baking soda or laundry detergent.
Orig.$250$200 at AmazonOrig.$300$200 at TargetOrig.$235$211 at Home Depot
What We Like
Ideal thickness
Good choice for lumpy mattresses
Silicone beading keeps topper in place
Stylish appearance
What We Don't Like
Set-up requires two people
Strong odor after unboxing
If you typically find memory foam to be too warm, the Tuft & Needle Mattress Topper is made from an open-cell foam that doesn’t retain as much heat. While it’s only 2 inches thick, we loved how it felt in our tests, noting that it wasn’t too thick or too thin. Further, we were barely able to detect hard objects placed under the topper, so it would be a good choice if you’re hoping to remedy a lumpy or uncomfortable mattress.
This mattress topper did have a strong odor after unboxing, so it will likely require an off-gassing period (even though the brand doesn’t recommend one). The cover has silicone beading on the bottom to help keep the topper in place on your bed, and we’d recommend enlisting a partner to help set it up.
One of the great things about this topper is that it offers several certifications, including CertiPUR-US. Tuft & Needle offers a 100-night sleep trial with hassle-free returns, and the product is backed by a three-year warranty.
Material:Open-cell foam | Height:2 inches | Sizes:Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king | Certifications:CertiPUR-US, UL GREENGUARD Gold | Return Policy:100 days plus three-year warranty
What We Like
Soft and squishy
Ideal for firm mattresses
Made to order
What We Don't Like
Warms up overnight
While it didn’t beat the other foam toppers in our tests, we’d still recommend the Nest Bedding Cooling Topper, which could help to provide more cushioning on a too-firm mattress. It’s made from the brand’s proprietary foam, and we liked its soft and squishy texture. It also has an attractive design and is made in the U.S. using CertiPUR-US certified foam.
This topper had a very slight odor after unboxing, and it was a tad too short for the mattress. Because it’s only 2 inches thick, we were able to detect objects placed underneath the surface, and it also got quite warm during testing.
Overall, it’s not a bad choice for those looking to make even the best firm mattress more comfortable, but it’s a bit pricey compared to other comparable options.
Material:Energex™ Foam | Height:2 inches | Sizes:Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king | Certifications:CertiPUR-US | Return Policy:30 days
Best Value
ViscoSoft Serene Hybrid Mattress Topper
What We Like
Extra plush
Nicely supportive
Stays lofty with use
What We Don’t Like
Underside prone to shedding
Heavy and difficult to place
If it’s a combination of thick, pillowy cushioning you’re searching for with a balance of support, we like ViscoSoft’s Pillow Top Memory Foam Mattress Topper. It feels like a plush pillow top layer on a mattress, but it doesn’t sacrifice support for your spine or head.
We were particularly impressed with the comfort this topper offered for its affordability; it was cozy yet supportive enough to prevent us from sinking in too deeply. Plus, when we tossed and turned–and even added an acupressure mat underneath–the topper stayed securely in place and prevented us from feeling a single lump or bump.
Because this foam mattress topper is dense and stands 4 inches thick, it is quite heavy–in our testing, we struggled to lift it and secure it onto the mattress. You’ll want to have another person on hand to tackle this task. Additionally, we noticed the underside of the topper was prone to shedding or leaving behind a flaky layer of foam pieces on the mattress.
We didn’t love this detail, as it made taking off the topper something we’d only want to do when we were ready to replace it (fortunately, the shedding is only visible if you take the topper off!) However, for its price and its support, we think it’s a value-rich option despite these slight drawbacks.
Material: Memory foam, down | Height: 4 inches | Sizes: Twin, twin XL, queen, short queen, king, California king | Certifications: None | Return Policy: Full refund for returns up to 90 days after purchase
How Long Does a Mattress Topper Last?
The lifespan of your mattress topper will depend largely on the material it’s made from. Low-quality foam will often break down after a year or two, but better quality memory foam will usually last three to five years. Latex mattress toppers are especially durable and often last five years or more.
What We Like
Highly firm
Supports back and stomach sleepers
Bounces back into shape
What We Don’t Like
Mattress cover fits tightly
Shorter return window
We’re fans of Casper’s pillows and mattresses, so it’s no surprise that we also came to like one of the brand’s mattress toppers in our testing, too. The Comfy Mattress Topper is a particularly great choice for those who like a nicely firm sleep surface, as this add-on runs extra firm. It’s made with 3 inches of resilient foam, and we found it to be just the right level of sturdy support for sleeping on our back and stomach. We also liked how responsive the two layers of foam inside this topper were.
After laying on top, it regained its original shape quickly when we got out of bed–and after testing, we didn’t notice any dents or shape changes present.
Note that this Casper mattress topper does have one of the shorter return windows compared to other products on our list. However, we do like that Casper offers a risk-free 30-day trial period, so you don’t have to worry about getting your money back if it isn’t quite the right fit for you.
Additionally, we noticed that the cover for this topper made for a tight fit. Initially, when we zipped the cover up, it was so tight it altered the shape and curled the edges of the topper. It took about a day for it to adjust and lay perfectly flat, so there is a bit of a “break-in” period.
Material: Cotton, polyester, and spandex cover; foam topper | Height: 3 inches | Sizes: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king | Certifications: CertiPUR-US | Return Policy: 30 days
What We Like
Thinner profile
Support for every sleep position
Easy to fit under sheets
What We Don’t Like
Limited return policy
Topper slides around easily
A just 2 inches tall, you might not think the thin nature of the Nolah Mattress Topper offers enough support compared to plusher picks on our list. But in our testing, we were seriously impressed by the support and comfort this topper delivered. Not only did its slightly lower height make it easier to fit sheets over, but its dense nature also provided a nice level of support when we slept on our back, side, and stomach.
It didn’t shift or slide with tossing and turning, and we were surprised at how immediately the foam material bounced back into its full shape once we got out of bed. The topper was extremely comfortable, with a good balance between cushioning and pressure relief no matter how we slept.
Just keep in mind the limited Nolah return policy. While the brand offers sleep trials for its mattresses, the topper is only eligible for return within the first 30 days post-purchase–and returns aren’t free. Additionally, it's worth noting that over the long term, we discovered this topper tends to slip and slide across the mattress. You may need to adjust it regularly if you toss and turn at night.
However, when it comes to support in a slim package, we do think Nolah’s topper is tough to beat.
Material: Cotton cover; AirFoam topper | Height: 2 inches | Sizes: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king | Certifications: None | Return Policy: 30 days
Best Memory Foam
Zinus Cooling Memory Foam Mattress Topper
What We Like
Helps regulate sleep temperature
Maintains volume with use
Soft, sumptuous feel
What We Don’t Like
May shift on mattress
Awkward to get on bed
For those who really like to sink into a soft, cushiony mattress at night, the 4-inch-thick Zinus Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress Topper delivers exactly that. When we put this tipper to the test, we found it was sumptuous and soft to the touch–so much so that we felt like our whole body sunk right in.
Yet when we climbed out of bed, we were impressed with how well the foam maintained its original volume and density, with no changes even after nightly use to the foam’s height or comfort. Plus, if you tend to warm up at night, we also liked how well the green tea-infused memory foam helped regulate our temperature; it felt cool to the touch even with our body heat.
We did notice, though, that this topper can shift with tossing and turning. Movement can lead to the topper sliding a few inches in any direction, which is complicated by the fact that it’s so heavy and thick that it’s awkward to get perfectly placed atop the mattress.
Also, note that with a return window of just 30 days, you have a more limited window to decide if it’s the right fit for you. We do, however, think that its extra-thick memory foam construction makes for one seriously well-cushioned sleep experience.
Material: Gel-infused memory foam, comfort foam | Height: 4 inches | Sizes: Twin, full, queen, king | Certifications: CertiPUR-US | Return Policy: 30 days
Best Down Alternative
Lucid Down Alternative and Gel Foam Mattress Topper
What We Like
Suits all sleep positions
Dual fill materials and textures
Maintains volume with use
What We Don’t Like
Conflicting return policy
Down alternative fiber fill may not sound like the most supportive mattress topper, but Lucid’s Down Alternative and Gel Memory Foam Mattress Topper manages to deliver the best of both worlds. Constructed with two layers–down alternative fiber fill for plushness and memory foam for whole-body support–this topper manages to feel pillowy and supportive at the same time.
In our testing, we liked how it suited every sleep position and offered two different textures for those who want that soft sink-in feel as well as the ability to smooth over lumps and bumps in the mattress below. We were particularly impressed with how well the down alternative fill managed to maintain its volume with nightly use, showing no compression or changes to its height.
We don’t love Lucid’s somewhat conflicting return policy, which can come into play if you aren’t satisfied with its comfort or support level for your needs. You have 30 days to start a return, but Lucid also notes that some returns may be accepted after the 30-day mark. This aside, we like that its dual materials can suit a range of different sleepers, offering plushness and a firmer, more supportive foam base.
Material: Down alternative, memory foam | Height: 4 inches | Sizes: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king | Certifications: None | Return Policy: 30 days
Final Verdict
After extensive testing, we're confident that the Sleep Innovations Gel Memory Foam Mattress Topper would be a great fit for most people. It's extremely supportive and made of thoughtful materials that are designed to last a lifetime. For something a little cheaper, the LUCID Ventilated Gel Memory Foam Mattress Topper is cushy and supportive. We liked its airy feel, which is achieved thanks to dozens of ventilation holes in the foam.
How We Tested the Mattress Toppers
Over the course of two days, members of The Spruce’s editorial team tested 11 total toppers at The Lab in Des Moines, Iowa. We examined and compared each topper, taking a close look at the set-up process, overall comfort, breathability, and durability of these products firsthand.
We started our testing process by recording the ease of setup and overall design of each mattress pad. We tested the toppers on queen-size mattresses, and we timed how long it took to unbox and arrange each topper, taking note of any smells or defects that appeared as the products fluffed up to size and off-gassed (if necessary).
After making the bed with toppers in place and sheets fitted over top, we climbed onto each mattress to assess the comfort of each product. We simulated the kind of wear and tear––and changes in position––that typically happen during nightly sleep, laying on our sides, tossing and turning, and relaxing in different positions.
For additional insight into the toppers’ comfort, we tested to see whether we could feel objects placed underneath the surface (like an acupressure mat meant to simulate a lumpy mattress). The highest-rated toppers were those that provided ample cushioning to keep our bodies comfortable and not distracted by lumps or uncomfortable bumps.
We also looked at how the topper material changed after laying on top, inspecting the volume of each to see if it compressed with weight and reverted to its original size and thickness once weight was removed. This helped us determine their durability, as we found the materials that could regain shape within seconds after use offered the best chance at maintaining the same level of comfort over the long term.
In the testing process, we also assessed the breathability and heat retention of each topper, using a surface temperature tester to determine the difference between the area where we were lying down and the area that was left untouched. To properly consider breathability, we noted how much body heat each mattress topper retained, along with any claims of “airflow” and “cooling” material that prevented sweating or discomfort in bed.
0:53
The Spruce Team Tests the Best Mattress Toppers
What to Look for in a Mattress Topper
The Right Thickness for Comfort and Support
Part of the key to a mattress topper’s increased comfort and support is its thickness. Thicker than a simple mattress pad, a mattress topper is designed to change the feel of your mattress’s surface. Toppers usually run between 1 and 4 inches thick, providing additional cushioning to improve your sleep comfort, your whole-body support, or simply the texture of the mattress underneath.
Typically, the thicker a mattress topper is, the more added cushion it will provide. The thickest options tend to stand between 3 to 4 inches tall, adding to the height of your mattress and offering a plush-to-the-touch sleeping surface made out of foam, down fill, or down alternative fill.
If it's extra thickness you’re searching for, we like Sleep Innovations Dual Layer Memory Foam Mattress Topper, our best overall pick, which stands 4 inches tall and offers multiple layers of cushioning against your existing mattress.
If you don’t need a whole lot of extra thickness but want a softer sleep surface, a thinner mattress topper may do the trick. Thin options fall between 1 to 2 inches thick and can add extra comfort on your bed. Options like the 2-inch-tall Tuft & Needle’s Mattress Topper, our best foam choice, can balance additional cushioning with a surface-smoothing sleep surface that’ll eliminate lumps and bumps.
On the other hand, some mattress pads can be up to 6 inches thick—ideal if your bed is incredibly uncomfortable. Just note that if you’re opting for an extra-thick topper, you’re going to need to equip yourself with some deep-pocket sheets, as a standard set of sheets won’t be able to cover both the mattress and the topper’s added height.
Materials Impact Feel and Comfort
Mattress toppers can be made with a variety of materials, including different types of foam, down feathers, and regular pillow material. There are pros and cons to the different options, and we found in our testing that it’s really a matter of personal preference which material is the best for each sleeper.
While all mattress toppers serve the same purpose, they come in a variety of different materials. They’re almost like mini mattresses; you can find toppers made from pretty much every material mattresses are made from (with the exception of innersprings and coils, that is).
Each material will offer a different feel, and based on our experiences testing mattress toppers, the material that works best for you is really a matter of personal preference––and your preferred sleep position.
For instance, memory foam and foam are popular picks for those who want body-conforming comfort and a responsive sleep surface; this topper material can also offer some relief and cradling at pressure points. However, memory foam can have an initial odor, and it varies in its responsiveness (or its ability to “bounce back” under weight).
Prices can range pretty widely, with affordable options like the Lucid 3-Inch Ventilated Gel Memory Foam Mattress Topper (our best budget pick) or splurge-worthy options like the Tempur-Pedic Tempur Adapt+ Mattress Topper (our most comfortable pick).
Down toppers are a softer, plusher option. However, they tend to be thinner than their foam counterparts and may lose feathers over time, making them a less durable pick. As a result, we found in our testing that down is best paired with a more supportive material like memory foam; we liked the ViscoSoft Serene Hybrid Mattress Topper, which combined the best of both worlds as our best value pick.
Ultimately, memory foam is the most popular (and common!) choice. In our testing, we found it’s generally suitable for most sleepers. However, it’s the best pick for sleepers who need additional support and cushioning. Hot sleepers will want to note that it may not offer the highest level of breathability, though.
Temperature Regulation May Help Hot Sleepers
Do you tend to get hot at night? Certain mattress toppers regulate body heat better than others, so consider this while shopping.
Like we mentioned above, memory foam is known to retain heat; this can cause you to get too warm during the night. However, some memory foam toppers, like the Amazon Basics Cooling Gel Mattress Topper (our best gel pick) are infused with materials like gel or charcoal that can help regulate your body temperature while you sleep, leaving you feeling cooler than usual.
Down feathers and down alternative toppers are significantly better at helping with temperature regulation overnight. However, they aren’t the only options for keeping cool. You can also consider thinner toppers—or even mattress pads—that are constructed with more breathable and heat-reducing materials, like the Cozy Earth Bamboo Mattress Pad, our best cooling pick.
Why Trust The Spruce?
This article was written by Heather Adams, senior editor at The Spruce specializing in bedding, bath, and home decor content since 2022. She’s written and edited hundreds of articles over the last decade, with a special focus on home products for the past four years.
At The Spruce, she’s personally tested products like sheet sets, bath towels, standing desks, and heated mattress pads. For this article, Adams used home testing insights along with research on mattress topper materials, types, and popular products.
Our Experts:
- Helen Sullivan, APR, Fellow PRSA, Communications Counsel for CertiPUR-US program
- Jeremy Laukkonen, updates writer at The Spruce
Read Next
- The 11 Best Cooling Mattress Pads of 2024
- The 7 Best Heated Mattress Pads of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
- After Years of Testing Mattress Pads, These 7 Are the Best
- The 8 Best Memory Foam Pillows of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
- The 10 Best Bed Sheets of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
- After Years of Testing Cooling Sheets, These 11 Are the Best
1 of 6