The world of bedding can be very confusing to many. Firstly, there are so many different types of products that it can sometimes be overwhelming. Then there’s the decision whether to buy on or offline. After that, we need to choose what we need and find it. And that can be daunting.
Ultimately, it does not take long for us to find out that a new mattress can cost a lot of money.
Is there any way around that predicament without having to shell out a lot of money for a new mattress? You need one. It is essential for your back, or may be that the motion transfer in bed is a disaster – you sometimes feel as if there’s an earthquake when your partner moves during the night. Telling them might result in a serious argument if they think that you are criticizing their bodyweight.
No worries! Here’s where the mattress topper comes in. But for our purposes, we are going to focus on the memory foam model because they are considered by most to be the very best. As you read on, you learn all you need to know to spruce up your bed for the better.
Are you open to other topper or pad options? Click here to read about our top mattress toppers picks.
Top Benefits of a Foam Bed Topper
Budget Friendly
Buying a pad is far cheaper than investing in an entirely new sleeping surface. Now many of you might think how can a topper beat a new mattress regarding quality no matter how much you are saving.
In short, nothing can beat it if you find the right one. However, the correct pad can seriously pimp up your bed in a budget-friendly manner.
Cooling and Sleeping Comfort
Memory foam is not known for its cooling properties. Yet, in the past years, since the material’s inception by NASA for the astronauts, it has made great strides in cooling ability. In many cases, gel and pores have aided in that quest. See our cooling pads and toppers picks.
Add those improvements to the already superior sleeping comfort, and you have a winner regarding bedding.
Increase Your Mattress Life
It’s a fact that covering your mattress with a pad will increase your mattress’s life. A topper does not only function as something that directs body heat or provides coolness during the night but also as a protector.
If you find the right product, toppers can also be waterproof and sealed, ensuring that bedbugs, for instance, cannot penetrate the sleeping surface. Another thing is that the pad gets most of the body movement and friction thus protecting what’s underneath.
May Relieve Pain
Depending on the style of sleeping surface and the degree of your pain, you might need to think about investing in a new topper. Now, we have already mentioned cost. But can a topper alone support the back sufficiently?
In short, yes! And this is especially true for memory foam mattresses. They attain perfect shape to the body, supporting and giving wherever necessary.
Ultimate Buying Guide for Your Next Purchase
Be Careful of Size Variations
The size of your mattress topper is far more critical than you might imagine. If you get one that is too large, it will seem lumpy, reducing sleep quality. Also, it will shift when you move. On the other hand, if the pad is too small, you might feel it shifting about under the sheet.
Thank Goodness, toppers come in all shapes and sizes. Be sure to measure the size of your bed before ordering online or heading out for the shops. There is no reason to make a mistake now that you know of the pitfalls.
Why Explore the Thickness
- 2-inch
The 2-inch topper is the thinnest one on the market. However, no matter how spindly, it can add to your bedding’s luxuriousness.
The thin pad is ideal if you already have a relatively new mattress and only wish to add an extra layer of comfort. But if your sleeping surface is old, it is wiser to opt for something thicker.
- 3-inch
The three-inch is slightly thicker. Therefore, it provides more added support to the mattress. In some cases, you might want to feel cozier and plusher when you are under the covers. The three-inch is also better for that than the two-inch.
Also, you will gain extra support for your back as there is another layer of memory foam for body-contouring or maybe a pleasant rayon bamboo surface for extra softness.
- 4-inch
The four-inch is thickest one of them all and the maximum one you can choose. This is because if you go much farther, you might as well buy a new mattress.
This option is great for people with older and less supportive mattresses. If you purchased a foam topper with the added extra quilted fiber layer, it might feel as close as you can get to buying a new sleeping surface.
Consider the Off-Gassing
For many people, memory foam beds have the best ratings when it comes to comfort, spinal alignment, and wellbeing. However, a lot of people complain about a phenomenon called off-gassing. Maybe you might recognize the term better if you think about the smell of paint when it has been newly applied – that is off-gassing as well.
The same can happen with a mattress and in turn with the topper made of the same foam. Off-gassing occurs when the volatile organic compounds (VOC’s) within the product break down and emit gasses.
Is it dangerous to your health?
No, it is not no matter how unpleasant you may find the odor. If you cannot abide the smell, you can choose CertiPUR-US products that guarantee their makeup. But off-gassing will always be there for a day or two. Just make sure to store you topper somewhere where it won’t disturb and afterward when the smell has passed, take it to the bedroom.
Different Types of Memory Foam (By Type)
Cooling Gel
The cooling gel in a pad invariably does not come on its own. A gel is used in combination with foam to create the best bedding experience.
As foam is used to create a material that adapts to the contours of the human body, the gel is added to maintain a specific temperature by conducting the body heat to the edges of the topper. It’s the best of both worlds.
Memory Foam
Foam has been with us for quite some time now, and it is no wonder that ever since NASA introduced us to this marvelous stuff that we all want to sleep on it.
It is durable, shapes to the body, supportive, anti-allergenic and provides pain relief thanks to the shaping properties. For many of you, there is nothing better. However, depending on the model, they can be expensive.
Latex
Latex comes in two forms. For one, there’s synthetic latex made of petroleum-based materials, and then there’s organic or natural latex (more on that in the next section).
Synthetic latex is derived from manmade processes using petroleum-based additives. Toppers of this kind are invariably cheaper than their natural counterparts. Such a product is ideal if you want entirely hypoallergenic properties.
Organic
Organic is anything derived from natural sources like tallalay latex, wool or feathers. Each of them has different advantages.
Take wool for example – it is soft and has excellent heat retention but does not offer the same support.
Latex is durable, supportive and comfortable but at a higher price.
For many feathers is the ultimate and most natural material for luxury for toppers. They add a certain panache to the bed. Yet, they may need refilling from time to time.
Topper Vs. Pad
When choosing something for our beds, there are so many different products and options to pick from. In the world of things to put on top of a mattress, it can get pretty complicated especially if you are not fully aware of what you want and the benefits each item brings.
For our purpose let us focus on pads and toppers.
Pads
As the name suggests, the pad is a thinner version of the topper. It is usually attached to a fitted sheet or comes with straps that attach to the sleeping surface.
The principle object of the pad is to complement the bed with an extra layer of comfort. There are few reasons that you might want this:
- Your mattress is too firm and you need a pad to soften the blow.
- The protector make noises when you move and you need something to muffle them.
- You need more support for medical reasons.
- The current sleeping surface is old and used. However, you are not ready to replace it yet.
- You just need something that is comfortable to protect the bed.
Topper
This one is an enhanced version of the pad as it is generally a lot thicker. But it serves more or less the same purpose of making your bed more comfortable.
Toppers are placed on the top of the mattress and under the fitted sheets. Depending on the surface material and if it is washable, some people prefer to sleep on them directly – this is personal preference and product dependent.
As we have already seen, you can purchase a topper in all manner of various materials from memory foam to latex.
When deciding which to choose, make sure you conduct your due diligence in the bedroom concerning your bedding. Ultimately, it all boils down to the age of your mattress and whether you are ready to buy a new one.
Noise and Durability
We have mainly spoken about the advantages of memory foam toppers in terms of comfort, extra support, and softness when in need of enhancing the sleeping surface due to an aging mattress. However, not much has been said about the added qualities we shall mention in this section.
But what do we mean by noise and durability?
In most cases, depending on the quality of the topper, they last for up to four to five years give or take. It depends on the density of the product. In other words how much weight can it sustain per cubic foot? Here, your weight comes into play. It is essential when choosing a topper that you consider this to improve durability.
Due to the visco-elastic polyfoam that is contained within memory foam pads, noise when moving during the night is virtually non-existent. Even if there are two of you sharing the bed, you will hear no rustling or anything else as the sleeping surface fits perfectly to the mattress, reducing noise.
The material acts as a particular dampener or a spring if in a car if you will. If your bedding is not too old and the padding not to thin, you won’t notice a thing during the night. There are few things more irritating than hearing the sleeping surface making sounds.
As with most things, do your research. How long do you need the topper for? Are you saving for a new mattress and how much time do you need before you have the necessary money? These questions pertain to the durability of the pad as this quality is directly linked to cost. Thanks to advances in technology, most foam toppers are almost noiseless.
Care and Maintenance
Care and maintenance all depend on the product you buy. In other words, did you do your research for the best there is for the money you have? This is important because the quality of the topper and the way it is constructed plays an integral part of the care and maintenance part of things.
As you already know, there are toppers that come in different types of thickness, and also, the product might have a detachable or separate layer upon which you sleep. In many cases, these are the most recommended because they fit into the washer for easy cleaning. On the other hand, the actual surface can only be dabbed with a damp cloth. But that’s okay because the cover protected it.
What many people do is that they have a complete encasement or protection and topper so that they can protect everything from anything untoward. The outer layer is easily removed when soiled. Also, it is merely and cheaply replaced without another thought.
Whenever you are involved with a new product, it is wise to regale yourself of the washing instructions before you head off to the washroom with your bedding. As you know, certain materials do not appreciate a drumming in the washer with a double infusion of bleach. If you are not careful, the item you so enjoy might be destroyed after one tumble.
Also, do not overdo the care and maintenance thing. You are dealing with memory foam, which is generally quite durable and resistant to insalubrious entities. We would recommend taking the topper to a professional cleaner every six months as they have the larger machines that are less likely to do damage.
Warranty
Due to their makeup, toppers are quickly packaged and delivered to your front door. As with the entire bed industry, people tend to order their stuff online nowadays. This development makes it all the more vital that you are aware of the small print when you click that icon and place your order to buy.
Why is that?
Most likely you already have most of the things you need for your bed, but maybe you are dissatisfied with your mattress because it is past its time. You need something to cover it up.
After reading this article, we are all informed now what the most important things are when choosing a pad to aid you in your sleep. A topper can change everything for the better.
Now, let’s focus on the warranty. In general, they last for about four years. Also, this is more or less the lifespan of the product. Be careful to keep an eye out whether there are any hidden caveats like how to reclaim or the duration of a refund or a new sleeping surface.
At this point, it can be safely said that most online businesses would never risk angering a customer because reviews are everywhere. But it always pays to be cautious.
5 Best Rated Memory Foam Mattress Toppers Reviewed (By Quality)
LUCID 3-inch Gel Foam (Editor’s Choice)
Features:
- 3 inches of ventilated foam
- Very affordable
- CertiPUR-US
Our Ratings: 9.6/10
Excellent topper at a great price!
It’s difficult to find something for your bed that is as soft and breezy as the Lucid 3-inch Gel Foam Topper. We couldn’t resist it, which is why it is the editor’s choice. The special memory foam formula infused with gel is perfect for body heat dispersion.
Another thing is that you don’t have to worry about harmful or unsavory chemical materials in the makeup. The company promises that the Lucid 3-inch is hypoallergenic and free of any pollutants. A small note on the side: The pad does smell for two days after removal from the box – make sure to air it.
It comes with a three-year warranty. In terms of keeping the topper in shape, be aware that it is not delivered with a cover, so you may want to invest in one. Also, for this one, try and avoid the washer. For more prolonged durability use a damp cloth to remove any stains.
The Lucid is the top-rated choice at a great price.
Gel Swirl by DreamFoam Bedding (Great Value)
Features:
- 2-inch thick memory foam
- Made in the USA
- 3-year warranty
- Available for all bed types
Our Ratings: 9.4/10
Here’s another one at a great price. You get it all for your bed, and you do not need to break the bank. Who says that luxury needs to be expensive?
The Gel Swirl by Dream Foam offers highest-quality memory foam technology. The visco-elastic surface adapts to the shape of the sleeper’s body perfectly and molds to create the perfect back alignment. It is the ideal companion if your bed is a little past it or if you just want to improve your night’s sleep.
The CertiPUR-US certificate confirms that only the very high-grade materials have been used in the production process. Just note that there might be a day or two off-gassing after you have unpacked this product from the stylish packaging. Another thing is that you may get hot during the night due to the material makeup if the topper.
LINENSPA 2 Inch Gel Infused (Amazon’s Choice)
Features:
- Excellent body-contouring
- Temperature-regulating gel inside
- 3-year warranty
Our Ratings: 9.2/10
With over one thousand five hundred reviews and an average 4.5 out of 5 rating on Amazon, it is safe to say that a lot of people did their research on this mattress topper before we did. That did not deter us. We wanted to find out what all the fuss was about.
The reviews are no joke. The Linenspa 2-inch Gel Infused topper is an ideal addition to the bedroom. In short, it is bedding par excellence. You can add it to any mattress size and thanks to the gel-infused memory foam; there’s no need to worry about getting too hot during the night.
In our view, the Linespa has one of the perfect combinations of value for money and sleeping comfort. Thanks to innovations like these that it is possible to sleep well at a low cost.
Advanced Sleep Solutions: 2 Inch Gel-Infused Foam
Features:
- Open cell structure design
- CertiPUR-US certified
- Warranty and money back guarantee
Our Ratings: 9/10
Advanced Sleep Solutions is a given with this mattress topper. Thanks to the open cell structure, heat accumulation is kept to a minimum without disturbing the memory foam body contouring properties.
Just know that with this memory foam you can’t go wrong. It adapts to the shape of your body just where you need it. Even if your mattress has almost given up on you, this pad can make all the difference. Just be prepared – The 2-inch memory foam will help relax muscles, align the spine and relieve pressure points.
Don’t forget: The motion transfer is good too. You will hardly notice your partner moving in the night.
All in all, this is a very reliable and durable product that is slightly more expensive than the others we mentioned so far. But if you have the money to spend, you can’t do much wrong with this product.
Best 4-Inch Dual Layer by Sleep Innovations
Features:
- 4 inches of heaven
- Made in the USA
- Machine washable cover included
Our Ratings: 8.9/10
The high-end 4-inch Dual Layer by Sleep Innovations is a combination of two inches of memory foam with two inches of quilted fiber. The gel foam tailors itself to the body shape for the optimal sleeping position. At the same time, the gel within controls the temperature, ensuring that the bed’s occupant does not perspire.
The quilted fiber is for extra softness. If you ever imagined what sleeping on a cloud was like, we suggest your try this topper. You get the feel of sleeping on goose down without the feathers. Combined with the features before, it is nearly unbeatable in terms of subtle pressure relieving support.
You will be happy the day it arrives in its vacuum packed package. After that, everything is a breeze from the ten-year limited warranty to maintaining the machine washable cover and the easily treatable pad. All you need to do is go to sleep.
Our Final Thoughts
For toppers, memory foam is the preferred and best material due to its durability, softness, body-contouring properties and in some cases the cost. The technology is ideally suited for covering the bed and making it more pleasant at a lower price.
You now have the tools to make the right purchasing decision. As you know, it all boils down to what you need the pad for. Is it a long-term solution for a good mattress or are you ready to trade up but you don’t have the money yet?
Whatever the answer, do not skimp on research. It’s your health and wellbeing we are talking about.