Mattress topper FAQs

What is the best mattress topper for back pain?

One that offers targeted support, keeping your spine aligned while cushioning pressure points. Memory foam is often a go-to here, especially in medium-firm densities, but hybrids with foam and pocket springs can work brilliantly too. The key is finding something that moulds to your shape without letting you sink too far, so you’re supported rather than slouched. If you take your sleep (and your spinal alignment) seriously, it’s worth looking to brands like Simba, Emma, and OTTY, who are known and loved for their high-tech mattresses, as opposed to bedding.

How do you clean a mattress topper?

Cleaning a mattress topper depends on the material, but most have removable covers that can be machine washed, which is the easiest way to keep things fresh. For non-washable fillings, a gentle vacuum and spot cleaning will lift dust and marks, while regular airing helps keep it feeling crisp. Always check the care label – wool, and feather and down products will need a little extra TLC.

How do you stop a mattress topper from sliding?

To stop a mattress topper from sliding, elasticated corner straps and anti-slip bases are your best friends. If yours doesn’t have either, a deep fitted sheet over both the topper and mattress can help keep it in place, or you could invest in a non-slip underlay. The right fit is important too – a topper that properly matches your mattress size will shift less overnight.

How thick should a mattress topper be?

The sweet spot for thickness depends on why you’re buying one, but most fall between 4 and 8 cm. Thinner toppers (around 4 cm) are great for a subtle comfort boost, while anything thicker can transform the feel of your bed entirely. Just remember: more height isn’t always better – it needs to work with, not against, your mattress.

Can a mattress topper really keep you cool?

Yes, a mattress topper can help keep you cool, but it’s all in the materials. Gel-infused foams, breathable latex, natural fillings like wool or silk, and open-cell designs all help regulate temperature and wick away moisture. If you overheat at night, steer clear of dense, heat-trapping foams and look for something with genuine airflow.

What thickness of mattress topper should I get?

Most mattress toppers measure somewhere between 2 and 9cm deep — so, once you’ve decided on the filling, it’s time to think about the thickness. And there are a couple of things worth considering:

• The level of support you’re looking for should play a key role in helping you decide on the depth of your mattress topper. It varies with each material, but generally speaking, the thicker it is, the more support a mattress topper will provide.
• The age and condition of your mattress are also important. For a relatively new mattress with minimal signs of wear and tear, a thinner topper will probably provide you with adequate extra cushioning. But if you’re working with an older mattress that’s no longer all that comfortable, a thicker topper that covers up any springs or signs of sagging will probably be more appropriate.

Still concerned that you might end up picking the wrong topper? Don’t worry — luckily, most mattress toppers now come with trial periods or a year warranty, if not 10. So, if it doesn’t live up to your desires, you’ll probably be able to return it free of charge. And, we’ve marked which mattress toppers have these lovely trials and warranties, as well, so you’ll be in the know pre-purchase.

What is the difference between a mattress topper and a mattress protector?

Although online retailers often put them in the same category, mattress toppers and mattress protectors are actually completely different products. As the name suggests, a mattress protector is less about transforming your mattress feel or alleviating your pressure points – and more about ensuring that it stays in the best possible condition for longer. A mattress protector is essentially a machine-washable cover (often a cotton cover), that protects from spills, stains, dust and other dirt and allergens.