Mattress topper types explained: your expert guide

There are three major mattress topper types: memory foam; latex; and featherbed. If you've ever tried shopping for a mattress topper, whether online or in-store, then you will have come across these terms, but you might not feel totally clear on what they mean.

That's where I come in. As H&G's resident Sleep Editor, I lead a team of expert testers in the search to find the world's best mattress toppers. Together, we've tested 12 toppers, from plush pillow tops to firm foam models, so I've picked all the pros and cons of the different mattress topper types. I can tell you everything from how they feel to what they cost and where to buy them.

I've included commentary from my fellow mattress testers to give you the fullest possible picture of what it might be like to sleep on a particular topper. Follow my mattress topper buying rules and you won't go far wrong.

Mattress topper types explained: the pros and cons

Admittedly, prices vary depending on the materials, but you should expend to spend somewhere between $150 and $450 to get a decent mattress topper in a Queen size. With that said, you could always try to save some money in the mattress sales.

Memory foam

Best for: firm, inflexible mattresses; side sleepers and anyone who suffers from chronic pain
Pros: plush comfort; pressure relief; motion isolation
Cons: less suitable for hot sleepers; less durable

Before we begin, it always helps to define our terms. Memory foam, also known as viscoelastic foam, is a variant of polyurethane. It's designed to respond to the shape, size, and temperature of the individual sleeper, molding to meet their needs.

How memory foam feels depends on the density of the foam, measured in pounds per cubic foot. All you need to know is that higher-density foam feels firm and solid (the sort of thing you find in a mattress base layer), while lower-density foam feels soft and cushy (more commonly found in mattress comfort layers). Don't worry if you don't recognize some of these words: you can always cross-reference against my mattress jargon buster.

Your average memory foam mattress topper is filled with lower-density foam, designed to soften up firm, inflexible mattresses. 'As a side sleeper, I appreciate the contouring comfort and pressure relief of memory foam,' says expert tester, Louise Oliphant. 'It takes the weight off my hips to ease my lower back pain.' Memory foam is known for its excellent motion isolation, so it's a good choice for couples and light sleepers.

There's an old adage that memory foam traps heat. That's true of earlier iterations, but modern manufacturers have found plenty of ways to incorporate cooling technology into their memory foam mattress toppers.

The blessing and the curse of memory foam is its propensity to develop indents and impressions. That's what gives you the feeling of body contouring, but it also ages the material. You can't expect to get more than a few good years out of a memory foam mattress topper, while latex products could last you as long as 20 years.

Latex

Best for: eco-conscious shoppers
Pros: breathable; durable; supportive
Cons: expensive; heavy

There are two methods of producing latex. The Dunlop method involves vulcanization: hardening the latex through a combination of heat and sulfur. This makes it stronger and more supportive. The Talalay method involves freezing the latex into a mold, then infusing it with carbon dioxide to create little air bubbles. This makes it springier and more responsive.

How your latex mattress topper feels depends on whether it's filled with Dunlop or Talalay latex. I'd use Dunlop latex to lend more support to a sagging mattress and Talalay latex to take the edge of an overly firm mattress. Both types of latex are highly breathable and ultra-durable. Take good care of your latex and it could last you as long as 20 years. That's why it's so good to sleep on latex.

There are two major downsides to using latex in your mattress topper: the weight and the cost. You might want to ask a friend or family member to help you unbox your latex mattress topper and get it onto the bed. The cost is unavoidable, especially of you go organic, but that's the price you have to pay for sustainable materials.

Feather and down

Best for: pillowy comfort
Pros: soft and squishy; great for side sleepers
Cons: not especially supportive

A feather and down mattress topper, also known as a featherbed, is what you get when you cross a comforter with a mattress topper. These thick, fluffy layers feel soft and squishy, offering plenty of comfort, but little support.

I might layer a feather and down mattress topper over a firm, inflexible mattress. If you're a side sleeper, then you'll appreciate the extra bit of give to contour around your curves and keep your spine straight. If you sleep on your back or your stomach, you need something more supportive.

Featherbed mattress toppers tend to keep cool, and they're relatively inexpensive, but they're a little high-maintenance. You'll need to give them a good shake every so often to fluff up the feathers and smooth out any lumps and bumps. It goes without saying, but if you're allergic to feathers or you prefer not to purchase animal products, then you'll need to look for another type of mattress topper.

FAQs

Will a mattress topper help?

If you're struggling to sleep on a mattress that feels too firm or too soft, then a mattress topper could help to change the look and feel of the mattress to make it more comfortable for you.

There is a mattress topper type to meet every sleep need. I'm talking cooling mattress toppers for hot sleepers, firm mattress toppers for back and stomach sleepers, and plush pillow tops for side sleepers. Follow my mattress topper buying rules and you won't go far wrong.

However, if your mattress is past its prime, then a mattress topper won't help. The only way to fix a sagging mattress is to return it to the manufacturer for repair.

Can a mattress topper be washed?

As H&G's resident sleep writer, I'm often asked: 'can a mattress topper be washed?' My answer depends on the mattress topper type. Memory foam cannot be washed in the washing machine and must be spot-cleaned. Featherbeds, as well as polyester or cotton toppers, can go in the washing machine, as long as you use a gentle detergent. If in doubt, always check the laundry symbols of the care label.

Even the best mattress topper should only ever be a short-term fix. If you've had your mattress for seven years or longer, and you're noticing sagging or loss of support, then your money would be better spent on the best mattress. I've outlined the pros and cons of all the major mattress types for your consideration.