The right mattress topper can take an already great bed and turn it into something extraordinary. At GhostBed, we want to help you get your best sleep and part of that includes helping you find the best mattress topper. Here, we’ll share everything you need to know about how to choose a mattress topper and what to look for.
Overview: How to Select the Best Mattress Topper
When you’re shopping for a mattress topper, you should:
- Consider your sleeping style, as side sleepers may prefer a different type of mattress topper than back or stomach sleepers
- Look for features and details that fit your preferences, such as cooling technology
- Choose a mattress topper that uses high-quality materials that are breathable, comfortable and durable
Consider Your Sleeping Style
Your sleeping style and position will help you determine which mattress topper is right for you. Side sleepers, back sleepers, stomach sleepers and those who sleep in a combination of all three positions will have different needs.
The Best Mattress Toppers for Side Sleepers
Sleeping on your side is the most common position, so you’ve got plenty of company. For side sleepers, the best mattress topper will be one that is soft enough to support you, but not too soft. The softer top helps relieve the pressure from your shoulders and hips, but you want to make sure that your spine, neck and head stay in the proper alignment.
The Best Mattress Toppers for Back Sleepers
If you’re a back sleeper, you need a mattress topper that will support you without sagging, which can cause back pain. Ideally, you want to look for one that will support your upper, middle and lower back, with the right balance and materials to curve to your spine. Balanced, medium-to-firm toppers, as well as thicker options made with contouring memory foam, are great options. If your mattress topper is too soft, it may not give your back the support it needs.
The Best Mattress Toppers for Stomach Sleepers
Out of all the sleeping positions, stomach sleepers should look for the firmest mattress topper. Sleeping on your stomach adds pressure on your lower back, especially if you don’t have the proper support.
Mattress toppers made out of high-density foam might be the best option for stomach sleepers. Plus, stomach sleepers should look for a mattress topper that keeps them cool at night because their face and neck are pressing against the mattress.
Look for Features that Fit You
Finding the perfect mattress topper is as personal of a journey as finding the perfect mattress! While your sleeping style plays a big part, you’ll also need to consider if cooling features are important to you, what material you like and more.
Here are a few features to consider when shopping for your next mattress topper:
Cooling Features
Many people are looking for the best mattress topper to keep them cool, so cooling features are at the top of our list. Staying cool at night will help you get a better night’s sleep so if you or your partner sleeps hot, you may want to invest in a mattress topper that makes your mattress feel cooler.
This could include choosing a mattress topper that is made out of gel memory foam instead of regular memory foam, which stays much cooler. A breathable cover for your mattress topper can also help your body regulate its temperature at night.
Material
Mattress toppers come in a variety of materials, including memory foam, gel-infused foam, down and latex. Materials like latex will be a bit more firm, while memory foam will be softer and conform to your body. Gel foam will hug you in all the right places, as well as keep you cool. The perfect material for your next mattress topper depends on your personal preferences and needs!
Comfort Zones
Think about your body as you’re laying on your mattress: if you were to divide it into “sections,” you’d find that they’re not all equal. Your hips and shoulders stick out (especially if you’re a side sleeper), and your torso is much heavier than your head or feet. This is why a “zoned” mattress topper is a great choice.
GhostBed’s 3” Memory Foam Topper, for example, features various comfort zones, strategically placed from head to toe. It’s plush at the top and bottom to cradle your head and feet, while it provides more support around your shoulders, neck, and legs. The middle absorbs the weight of your body to help disperse it evenly. These varying density levels give you the best of both worlds, so that you don’t have to make sacrifices when looking for the best mattress topper.
Size
Always choose the right size for your mattress topper. It should be the same size as your mattress so it perfectly aligns with the edges.
One of the best things about mattress toppers is that they come in different sizes and are a simple way to upgrade any mattress. For example, a twin XL mattress topper can instantly elevate a hard dorm room mattress that you might not be used to. Even if you have a mattress you love, a topper provides an extra comfort layer to add to an already-great mattress.
Density
Mattress toppers come in a variety of densities, so this is another factor to consider. Most mattress toppers are between 2-4 inches in thickness, with 2-inch and 3-inch being the most popular. This range gives you enough cushion to make your sleep more comfortable, but not too much thickness that you’re sacrificing the support of your mattress. Heavier sleepers might need a thicker topper to support their weight, but we recommend a 3-inch topper for most people.
Stay-Put Features
There’s nothing worse than a mattress topper that slips and slides throughout the night as you try to get comfortable! For peace of mind, look for extra features like deep pockets and elastic bands along the sides that help your topper stay put.
GhostBed’s memory foam topper, for example, features 18” pockets and our signature GhostGrip elastic band—no shifting or slipping here!
Check for High-Quality Materials
The quality of your mattress topper matters! When shopping for the best mattress topper, look for one that uses high-quality materials that are:
- Hypoallergenic
- Breathable
- Resistant to mildew and dust mites
- Durable
A high-quality mattress topper should last you many years and give you a comfortable, breathable and enjoyable sleep.
FAQs When Choosing a Mattress Topper
Still have questions about choosing the perfect mattress topper? Below are some frequently asked questions that we get here at GhostBed.
How Do I Choose a Mattress Topper?
Choosing the right mattress topper depends on your sleeping position, preferences, the features you want, your budget and the type of mattress you have. Side sleepers may need a softer mattress topper, while stomach sleepers will prefer a firmer mattress topper. Some materials are more cooling, while some hug your body tighter.
Which is Better, a Memory Foam or Gel Mattress Topper?
Again, this will depend on preference, but a gel mattress topper will be cooler than a traditional memory foam mattress topper. Gel memory foam is a great choice for those who sleep hot or sleep with a partner.
Do Mattress Toppers Make You Hot?
As long as you choose a mattress topper with gel-infused foam and/or other cooling properties, your mattress topper shouldn’t make you hot!
Introducing the GhostBed 3” Memory Foam Topper
Ready to instantly upgrade your mattress? GhostBed’s new 3” Memory Foam Topper offers luxurious comfort and cooling for deeper, more restorative sleep. 3” of gel memory foam senses and contours to your body for maximum comfort, while targeted comfort zones provide added pressure relief from head to toe.
