How to choose the right mattress topper: The ultimate guide

Choosing the right mattress topper can help you improve the comfort of your bed and create a sleeping setup that suits your needs. In this guide, you'll learn what a mattress topper does, how to choose the right material, size and thickness, and what to consider when finding the best mattress topper for you.

A mattress topper is an additional layer placed on top of your regular mattress to adjust the comfort of your bed and protect the mattress underneath. Available in different materials, thicknesses and sizes, mattress toppers can change how your bed feels, helping you create a sleeping setup that better suits your preferences.

A mattress topper is different from a mattress protector, although the two can be used together. While a mattress topper primarily adds comfort, a mattress protector mainly helps protect your bed against moisture, sweat and dirt. Read more about the differences and how the two products work together in our guide to the differences between mattress topper and mattress protector. 

A mattress topper can improve your sleeping experience in several ways, from adjusting the feel of your bed to helping protect the mattress underneath. The benefits depend on the materials and construction of the mattress topper you choose.

• Adjusting comfort: A mattress topper can change how your bed feels, making the sleeping surface feel slightly softer or firmer depending on its materials and construction. Some materials, such as memory foam, can also help relieve pressure on the body
• Protecting the underlying mattress: A mattress topper adds a layer between you and your mattress, which can help protect it from everyday wear and extend its lifespan.
• Adding specific features: Some mattress toppers offer features such as improved breathability or cooling properties, which may help you feel more comfortable while sleeping.
• Refreshing your bed: If your bed no longer feels quite right, a mattress topper can help adjust its comfort without replacing your underlying mattress, provided the underlying mattress is still in good condition.

The best mattress topper for you depends on how you want your bed to feel, your budget, the material and thickness of the mattress topper, and your personal comfort preferences. You should also consider the size of your bed and whether you tend to feel too warm while sleeping. By comparing these factors, you can find a mattress topper that suits your needs and complements your existing mattress.

Which mattress topper material is best for you?

The material is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a mattress topper, as it influences how the sleeping surface feels and which features the mattress topper offers. Some materials, such as memory foam, shape themselves to your body to help relieve pressure, while others offer a more responsive surface or features designed to help regulate temperature.

The right choice depends on your preferences and the properties of the individual product. If you want to understand the differences between memory foam, latex, goal foam and other materials in more detail, read our guide to choosing the right mattress topper material.

Some mattress toppers also have cooling features designed to help you feel cooler while sleeping. These features may be particularly useful if you often feel too warm in bed, especially during warmer months. Learn more in our guide to cooling mattress toppers.

What size should a mattress topper be?

A mattress topper should match the width and length of your underlying mattress to provide a comfortable, even sleeping surface. Before buying one, measure your mattress to ensure you choose the correct dimensions.

The right fit can also help prevent your mattress topper from moving around during the night. If your mattress topper keeps sliding, read our guide on how to stop your mattress topper from sliding for practical advice.

How thick should a mattress topper be?

Mattress toppers are available in different thicknesses, and the right choice depends on how much you want to change the feel of your bed. A thicker mattress topper may have a more noticeable effect on comfort, but thickness alone does not determine how a mattress topper feels. The material and construction also play an important role.

At JYSK, mattress topper typically range from approximately 2.5 to 10 cm in thickness, with many models measuring around 4-8 cm. Consider how your existing mattress feels and what you want to change before choosing a thickness.

Does your sleeping position matter for a mattress topper?

Your preferred sleeping position can influence which mattress topper feels most comfortable, as different positions place pressure on different parts of your body. However, your underlying mattress also matters, and there is no single mattress topper that suits every side, back or stomach sleeper.

For example, if you sleep on your side, a mattress topper that gives way around your shoulders may feel more comfortable. To find the right option for you, compare the materials and features listed in JYSK's product descriptions and learn how they can affect the feel of your bed.

Regular care can help keep your mattress topper in good condition, but cleaning it thoroughly can be difficult. Mattress toppers generally cannot be machine washed, unlike many mattress protectors, so it's important to follow the care instructions for your specific product.

If your mattress topper is severely worn or remains dirty despite appropriate cleaning, replacing it may be the best option. Learn more about the signs to look for in our guide to when you should replace your mattress topper.

You can also help protect your mattress topper by using a mattress protector. Mattress protector help shield the sleeping surface from sweat, moisture and dirt, and many can be machine washed for easier cleaning.