What is a mattress topper?
A mattress topper is a cushioning layer of material, designed to sit on top of your mattress. They can be made from various fillings, including memory foam, fibres, or down.
If your mattress is too firm, or has just seen better days, a mattress topper can make it feel like new again. They provide a layer of cloud-like support, alongside protecting your mattress from spills. Many people try a topper, before buying a brand-new mattress.
Here’s what mattress toppers are for, plus factors to consider when choosing one.
Do I need a mattress topper?
If you’re wondering if a mattress topper is really necessary, you’re not alone. Whether it’s worth buying one, or a whole new mattress, depends on you. Maybe ask yourself:
Mattress toppers can also help people with allergies, by adding a washable layer between them and the mattress, and people with back tension, due to them relieving pressure.
And if you feel chilly at night, we offer a luxurious range of heated mattress toppers too.
Mattress topper benefits (pros & cons)
Before you buy a mattress topper, pad, or protector, let’s have a look at their purpose.
Softens a bed that feels too firm
If you bought a firm mattress in the hope that it would soften up eventually, a mattress topper can add an extra layer of softness and help you sleep more comfortably.
Delays buying a new mattress
Buying a mattress topper can help your mattress last longer, delaying the need for a big spend to replace it with a new one. It also protects the top of your mattress from wear.
Protects your mattress from spills
If you like to enjoy a nighttime tea or coffee in bed, a mattress protector helps protect your mattress. It’s easier to put a topper in the washing machine than to clean a mattress.
Easy to remove when needed
Mattress toppers are usually attached using elasticated corners or straps, making them easy to remove. You can remove them if you require a firmer feel to your mattress.
Help you feel warmer in bed
A thick, cosy mattress topper may help you feel warmer in bed during the winter. If you really feel the cold, try an extra thick topper or one of our Dreamland heated mattress protectors.
May relieve pressure or tension
Suffer from aches or tension? As a topper adds a cushioned layer to your mattress, it may help relieve pressure on your joints, allowing you to get a more restful night’s sleep.
Are there any downsides to a topper?
A mattress topper has many benefits, but may not be right for you. If your mattress is brand new or feels soft enough already, you probably won’t need one just yet.
Buying a mattress topper also shouldn’t be a replacement for an old or faulty mattress.
Choosing the right type of mattress topper is important – make sure you avoid buying a material that irritates you or makes you feel too warm. The perfect one is out there!
Choosing a mattress topper
When choosing the best mattress topper, here are a few key factors to keep in mind.
The right size for your bed
A mattress topper should fit your mattress perfectly, otherwise it could crease or move around, making sleep more uncomfortable. Toppers come in a range of standard sizes.
If you have a new pillow-top mattress, you may already find your bed feels soft enough.
Thickness and materials used
Common materials used for mattress toppers include memory foam, latex, feathers, wool, or polyester blends. Here are some pros and cons for each of the popular topper types:
|
Type |
Pros |
Cons |
|
Memory Foam |
- Soft and comfortable - Lots of additional support - Reduces joint pressure |
- Expensive - Too warm for some - Smells when new |
|
Natural Latex |
- Naturally antimicrobial - Very firm and durable - Great support for joints |
- Expensive - Too warm and ‘bouncy’ - Smells when new |
|
Feathers |
- Cooler than foam/latex - Very soft and comfortable - Easy to move around on |
- Not vegan - Can be noisy to move on - Needs regular shakes |
|
Wool |
- Naturally antimicrobial - Comfortable yet durable |
- Expensive - Smells when new |
|
Polyester Blend |
- Great value softness - No smell when new |
- Needs regular shakes - Not as supportive |
|
Organic Cotton |
-Natural material -Soft and comfortable |
-Can be expensive |
The material you pick will be down to personal preference and how much you want to spend. The Dreamland mattress protectors are made from organic cotton, which is not only a natural material., but they are also heated! There are also different thicknesses, with thicker toppers providing more support and comfort. If you sleep on your side, a thicker mattress topper could be best for you.
Most toppers tend to be around 2 to 3 inches thick, but other thicknesses are available.
Anti-allergy or special features
Look for the mattress topper that best suits your needs – whether that’s simply a comfortable extra layer, support to relieve pressure, or special features like heating. If you feel cold in the winter and want to save money on bills, a heated pad could help.
Some mattress toppers are better for allergy sufferers. Natural latex and wool are both naturally resistant to allergens, making them ideal if you have asthma or allergies.
Dreamland toppers use natural cotton, keeping you warm in winter and cool in summer.
How to fit and use a mattress topper
Now you know what a mattress topper is for, how do you put one on your bed?
1. Unpack the topper
After you’ve removed the topper from its packaging, roll it out fully and let it breathe. Depending on the material, it may need some time to uncompress and expand.
2. Ensure it’s flat and even
Once ready, position the mattress topper on your bed, directly on top of your mattress. Smooth out any creases and ensure that it fits the entire surface of your mattress.
3. Attach it to your mattress
Secure the topper to your mattress – some will have elasticated straps or elasticated edges to hold it in place around the mattress, or a non-slip bottom to stop it moving.
4. Cover with a fitted sheet
Place a fitted sheet over the mattress topper, smoothing out any creases. You may also wish to add a mattress protector (or a waterproof layer) between the topper and sheet.
5. If it's heated, turn it on
If you’ve bought a heated mattress topper, plug the topper in and use the controls to set the right level of heat for you. You can also enjoy the softness without turning it on.
You should also check your topper hasn’t moved or bunched up when changing sheets.
Washing & maintenance
To keep your mattress topper comfortable and luxurious, you need to clean it regularly. Not only will this prolong its use, but it helps keep your sleeping space healthy.
How to wash your mattress topper
When washing your mattress topper, remember to check the manufacturer's instructions.
Different materials need different treatments, for example, memory foam and latex toppers can’t be cleaned in the washing machine like a polyester fibre and some feather toppers.
Read our separate blog post on how to wash a Dreamland mattress protector here.
Some toppers require a spot-cleaning or handwashing method, using mild detergent. And all mattress toppers should be thoroughly dried before you take them back to bed!
Hoovering and rotating the topper
To remove dust and allergens, you may also want to hoover your topper occasionally. Especially if you have a topper that can’t be washed thoroughly in a machine.
Some mattress protectors are designed to sit over a mattress topper or pad (confusingly, the names of these products are often interchanged). You can use a thin, waterproof mattress protector on top of a thick and cushioned mattress topper or pad for protection.
Rotating a topper can also help keep its bounce – check the manufacturer’s advice. With care, a mattress topper can prolong the life of your mattress and keep you comfy.
Dreamland Mattress Toppers
Interested in a mattress topper? We offer a luxurious range online, offering gentle, cloud-like support and innovative heating controls to help you get a good night’s sleep.
FAQs
Can mattress toppers help with back tension?
A substantial mattress topper may help with back tension by enhancing support, improving pressure relief and helping to align your spine when you sleep. Memory foam and latex toppers are particularly suitable, as they conform to your shape and provide support.
Do you put a fitted sheet over a mattress topper?
Yes, you put a fitted sheet on top of a mattress topper. Mattress toppers are designed to sit directly on top of your mattress but under bedding including sheets and duvets. You may also want to add a thin, waterproof mattress protector over a thick mattress pad.
How long can a mattress topper last for?
A mattress topper may last between 3 and 5 years, depending on the style. With care and maintenance, a topper may delay having to buy a brand-new mattress, but shouldn’t be relied on. If your mattress has broken springs or sags, it may be time for a new one.