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When it comes to improving your sleep, upgrading to the best mattress topper can be a game-changer.
"We spend about a third of our lives in bed, and over time, even the best mattresses naturally wear down, losing the comfort and support your body needs for quality sleep," said Judith Ackers, bed expert at Land of Beds.
Finding the best topper for your bed is a balance between comfort, sleep style, UK price, budget, and any specific pain you're trying to alleviate, like back pain caused by a sagging mattress. Once you've found the right mattress topper, it can breathe new life into your bed — adding plush softness, extra support, cooling comfort, or targeted pressure relief — without the hefty price tag of a new mattress.
The best mattress toppers at a glance:
- Best mattress topper: Simba Essential Mattress Topper
- Best memory foam mattress topper: Panda London Bamboo Mattress Topper
- Best mattress topper for back pain: NewentorLife Mattress Topper
- Best cooling mattress topper: Silentnight wellbeing cool touch mattress topper
- Best mattress topper for guests: Emma Flip Mattress Topper
- Best mattress topper for side sleepers: Simba Sleep Hybrid Mattress Topper
- Best budget-friendly mattress topper: Arlinens Microfibre Mattress Topper
Instead of commuting all the way to a store to see the topper in person, you can shop online from the comfort of your home. Many of the top companies we recommend offer multi-night trial periods, so you can truly feel the difference over time, not just for a few minutes in a showroom.
If it’s not the perfect fit, money-back guarantees make returns simple and risk-free. Plus, with flexible payment plans, you have affordable options to upgrade your sleep headquarters without hassle.
Whether you’re looking to ease aches, stop overheating, or make a too-firm bed feel cosier, knowing exactly what you want to fix or enhance is the first step. In this guide, we’ll break down the different types of mattress toppers, key features to look for, and our top picks to help you find the perfect match for your sleep.
If you're looking for a new mattress topper for a specific need, click to jump to our picks for the best cooling mattress topper, best mattress topper for back pain, best memory foam mattress topper, or the best mattress topper for side sleepers. There are plenty more toppers in our comprehensive guide, so scroll down for more tips.
What is a mattress topper?
If you've never used a mattress topper before, it's a removable layer of cushioning that sits on top of your mattress to change its feel, add comfort, or improve support. Think of it as a "comfort upgrade kit" for your bed — it can make a too-firm mattress softer, a too-soft mattress more supportive, or add features like cooling or pressure relief.
" Michal Szlas, founder and sleep expert at OTTY Sleep stated: "As well as adding an extra layer of comfort and support by helping to smooth out uneven areas and prolong the life of your existing mattress, toppers can also offer a more budget-friendly way to adjust your bed’s firmness or temperature regulation without replacing the entire mattress."
It can also act as a versatile addition to a guest bedroom if you're hosting those who have specific support needs.
Common materials include:
- Memory foam, which contours your body for pressure relief
- Latex or memory foam to create a bouncy, breathable, and more durable topper
- Feather or down for a soft, plush, and more luxurious feel
- Wool to create a natural temperature regulation while you sleep
- Polyfoam, which is a budget-friendly material that still gives comfort
Why should you invest in a mattress topper?
There are several reasons why buying a mattress topper might be a better choice instead of shelling out on a whole new mattress.
For starters, there are several toppers on the market with a lower price tag than if you invest in a different mattress. It can also reduce wear and tear on your existing mattress, extending its lifespan.
If you're unsure if your mattress needs to be replaced/updated, Szlas said, "If you notice signs of wear and tear such as sagging, lumps, or you wake up with new aches and pains, it could be time to replace it."
Suzanne Hayes, Director of Headboards & Interiors, confirmed how long a mattress typically lasts. “Most people do not realise how long a mattress should last. On average, it is wise to replace a mattress every seven to ten years. Over time, mattresses lose their support and comfort, which can lead to back pain, restless nights, and even allergies from dust and bacteria."
A mattress topper can aid with temperature control. For example, you may not need to change your sleep set-up in the cooler months, but you might need a topper with cooling properties to assist you as temperatures begin to rise. When the temperatures begin to rise again, you can vacuum-pack the topper away and return to the original setup... something that's much harder to do with a whole new mattress.
Your sleeping preferences may change over time, too, and a mattress topper can help you adjust the firmness without needing to replace your whole bed.
How do I know which mattress topper is right for me?
First, ask yourself what you're trying to adjust.
Are you experiencing back pain? Do you want to keep cool and comfortable during the warmer months?
The following table pairs the best materials suited to the most common needs:
| Your Need | Best Choice | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Mattress too firm | Memory foam or plush down alternative | Adds softness & cushioning |
| Mattress too soft | Firm latex or dense foam | Adds support and stability |
| Overheating at night | Latex, wool, or gel-infused foam | Breathable & temperature-regulating |
| Back pain | Medium-firm memory foam or latex | Aligns spine & relieves pressure |
| Allergies | Hypoallergenic materials (latex, wool, microfiber) | Resists dust mites & allergens |
| Budget-friendly | Polyfoam or microfiber | Affordable comfort boost |
Feather, down, polyfibre, or microfibre mattress toppers may be machine washable on a gentle, cold cycle (check the label)
|PEXELS
How do I wash my mattress topper?
Some materials may require more cleaning and maintenance than others.
Memory foam and polyfoam, for example, should almost never be machine-washed. You can spot clean with mild detergent, blot, air dry, and freshen with baking soda.
Latex is also spot-clean only; you may just need to vacuum occasionally to keep dust away.
Feather, down, polyfibre, or microfibre toppers may be machine washable on a gentle, cold cycle (check the label) and should be dried thoroughly with low heat and dryer balls.
Wool is usually spot clean or dry clean only, though some blends allow gentle cold-water washing — always use a wool-safe detergent and air dry.
To ensure you're caring for your mattress topper properly, it may be best to read the individual care labels.
These additional maintenance tips can also extend the lifespan of your topper:
- You can buy mattress covers, which are an extra protection layer for toppers, to protect against spills and staining
- Deodorise your topper naturally by sprinkling baking soda on top, letting it set, and then shaking it off to keep fresh between cleanings
- Rotate your topper every few months to prevent uneven wear
- Make sure your topper is completely dry before use. Materials like foam can form mould or mildew if they're still damp
Best mattress topper
Buy the essential mattress topper from Simba
Take advantage of next-day delivery by ordering the essential mattress topper on Simba's online site. Each mattress topper is made right here in the UK and offers a 10-year guarantee because they're that confident their products will provide a good night's sleep
Warranty
10-year guarantee
Thickness
7 cm
Care instructions
Machine washable
The Essential mattress topper from Simba offers a blend of foam and springs, and is designed with award-winning Hybrid-tech for a quality night's sleep. There's a knit cover that provides a soft surface without compromising support. Built with four elastic straps, it easily hooks onto your mattress so you don't have to worry about it sliding around in the middle of your night.
It can easily roll up for travel if you plan on embarking on a road/camping trip too.
Best memory foam mattress topper
Save 10% on a memory foam mattress topper from Panda London
Not only can you save 10% on the bamboo mattress topper from Panda, but you can also pay in 4 interest-free payments when you use Clearpay, a "buy now, pay later" service. You can trial the topper risk-free for 30 nights
Designed with orthopaedic-grade support, this foam mattress topper is designed to keep your back, neck, and hips in alignment to provide comfort and support while you sleep. It features gel-infused technology to actively prevent overheating, especially during the warmer months.
The topper is also set to help if you have sensitive skin or are prone to allergies. Made from hypoallergenic, breathable bamboo, it helps prevent irritation, keeps you cool, and reduces sweating.
Its natural antibacterial properties protect against bacteria and dust mites, while moisture-wicking and odour-resistant qualities help keep your bed fresh.
Warranty
10-year guarantee
Thickness
5 cm
Care instructions
Not machine washable. Hand wash (up to 40 degrees) and hang dry
Best mattress topper for back pain
Save 39% + 15% on a mattress topper for back pain from Amazon
When you use this unique code: 5YNW2FPU, you can get an additional 15% off the already discounted topper from Amazon, which chops off over £60 of the original price. Plus, if you have an Amazon Prime membership, you can receive your topper in as little as two days with free shipping
This topper is designed to boost comfort, support, and durability, making it ideal for those who need firmer support to maintain proper spinal alignment and reduce pressure on joints. This helps ease body aches and promotes healthier posture for a more restful sleep.
It's crafted with polyester, so it's more affordably priced than other models without sacrificing comfort. The topper is available in multiple sizes and widths, too, so it can be placed in various areas of the home, like the master bedroom, guest room, etc.
Warranty
10-year support
Thickness
- 5cm
- 7cm firm
- 7cm standard
- 10cm
Care instructions
Machine washable
Best cooling mattress topper
Save 9% on cooling mattress topper from Silentnight
Get a new mattress topper with cooling properties for 9% off. Prepare to enjoy a cool, comfortable night's sleep with a moisture-wicking design and added memory foam. Delivers to your door in three to five working days
The Silentnight Cool Touch Topper is designed to help you stop overheating so you can enjoy a cool night’s sleep. Made with breathable Coolmax fabric, it lets air flow freely and wicks away moisture to keep you dry throughout the night.
Combined with EcoBreathe fibre channels, too, it helps regulate temperature and creates a cooling effect.
Warranty
2-year warranty
Thickness
8cm
Care instrcutions
Vacuum, or spot clean with mild detergent
Best mattress topper for guests
Save 15% on a mattress topper for guests from Emma
Get 15% off and free delivery in two to four days when you purchase the flip mattress topper from Emma.
You also have the choice to upgrade to a premium option, which is slightly thicker (9cm) and has a firmer feel for those who need additional support.
If you're hosting overnight guests, give them the option of either a soft or firm mattress topper. This reversible topper from Emma features two sides, one soft, one firm, that can easily be flipped over depending on what your guests prefer.
Designed with breathable foam, it supports better airflow to keep you cool at night. It also features a removable cover that can be tossed into the washing machine for easy clean-up.
Warranty
10-year guarantee
Thickness
6cm
Care instructions
Machine washable
Best mattress topper for side sleepers
Buy the hybrid mattress topper from Simba
While there's no active discount on this hybrid mattress topper from Simba, you can spread the cost to as low as under £30 per month on 12 monthly instalment payments, depending on the size you select. If you're not happy with your topper within 200 days of receiving it, Simba will collect it back, free of charge
The hybrid mattress topper by Simba combines award-winning Hybrid tech with patented titanium alloy Aerocoil microsprings to provide premium support. It's Simbatex and CertiPUR foam layers keep things fresh and cushioned, while a soft, breathable knitted cover adds airflow and can be removed for easy washing.
Portable and versatile, it rolls up for travel, guest rooms, or camping, and stays in place thanks to elastic straps and a non-slip base. It's also made right here in the UK.
Warranty
10-year guarantee
Thickness
6.5 cm
Care instructions
Machine washable
Best budget-friendly mattress topper
Save 9% on budget-friendly mattress topper from Amazon
Upgrade your mattress for under £25 to for a good night's sleep, and without breaking the bank. Designed with a soft microfibre fabric, it adds support while you rest. It can also be easily thrown in the wash.
With an Amazon Prime membership, you can receive your topper in as little as two days with free shipping
Easy-fit elasticated straps keep this mattress topper securely in place, while the hypoallergenic hollow fibre filling acts as a barrier against dust and mites—ideal for allergy sufferers. Made with a soft microfibre fabric and filled with 100% hollow fibre, it offers plush comfort that stays fluffy wash after wash.
Available in sizes from cot to super king, it’s machine washable for easy care and long-lasting freshness on a budget.
Warranty
No warranty
Care instructions
Machine washable
Thickness
5cm