Make an old, lumpy bed feel new again. Five mattress toppers that actually work
Guardian journalism is independent. We earn a commission if you buy something through an affiliate link. Learn more.
TL;DR
- Mattress toppers are pads placed on top of a mattress to alter its feel, making it firmer, softer, or smoother.
- They can improve comfort but cannot repair a worn-out mattress with broken springs or significant dips.
- The Helix Ergoalign is recommended as the best overall topper, balancing support and comfort with cooling features.
- The Viscosoft Restore hd is a budget-friendly option offering firm support but potentially trapping heat.
- The Coop Retreat is ideal for softening a firm mattress with its plush, fluffy feel.
- The Naturepedic Adagio is best for making a soft mattress firmer, utilizing organic latex and cotton.
- Toppers are made from materials like memory foam (good for motion absorption, can trap heat) and latex (biological origin, can have different textures).
- A mattress protector is still recommended to protect the topper and mattress from spills, as most toppers are not washable.