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Are mattress toppers necessary?

First of all, it’s worth keeping in mind that mattress toppers are not something that you need to purchase alongside a mattress in order to feel comfortable. Think of a topper as a means of providing an extra boost of comfort to your mattress.

Many people will purchase a mattress topper after they’ve had their mattress for a few years and it’s begun to feel a little worn. Others use one to adjust the firmness, improve pressure relief, or help with temperature regulation. With a new mattress, a topper usually isn’t necessary unless you find you need additional comfort or support.

Are mattress toppers worth it?

A mattress topper can be a useful addition if you want to slightly alter the firmness of your mattress. Toppers provide an extra layer of cushioning or support, which can help improve sleep quality, relieve pressure points, or modify how soft or firm your bed feels. 

In some product reviews, people who used gel memory foam toppers noticed that they could make a firm mattress feel more comfortable, and relieve pressure on areas such as the hips. Another comment was that mattress toppers can be used to experiment with firmness preferences.

Some reviews of hollowfibre mattress toppers suggested that they could provide extra warmth, remain securely in place, and can add comfort to an existing mattress.

Overall, a mattress topper can make a noticeable difference if a mattress feels too soft or too firm, and some types may also help with temperature regulation.

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How to choose a mattress topper?

When selecting a mattress topper, there are several factors to consider:

• The size of the mattress topper - make sure the topper matches the dimensions of your mattress
• Key features or qualities - consider what matters most to you, qualities such as softness, support, temperature regulation or durability
• The type of mattress topper - different materials have different benefits or drawbacks
• Construction quality - different toppers are made using different techniques and materials, which can affect comfort, durability, and support

Understanding the benefits of different toppers, comparing materials, thicknesses, and quality levels can help you choose a topper that works with your sleep preferences.

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7 benefits of mattress toppers

Before we start explaining the differences between types of mattress toppers, it can help to understand the potential benefits they offer.

This way, you can find out which benefits to prioritise when deciding what features are relevant for your needs.

Below, we go into detail about how mattress toppers can have a positive impact on your sleep and your mattress.

1. They can increase the lifespan of your mattress

Although mattress toppers don’t necessarily protect your mattress from accidents and spills, they do take some of the strain off of your mattress each night as they take the majority of the wear and tear away from the surface of your mattress. Using a mattress topper can reduce the wear on your mattress, which may help it stay in good condition for longer. Toppers can also be replaced more easily than mattresses if they start to deteriorate.

2. They provide additional comfort

The main job of a mattress topper is to add extra comfort to your mattress, with a layer of extra cushioning.

Think of them as a thin mattress that you place on top of your existing one. They even come in different types, just like mattresses. For example:

• Memory foam toppers can help to relieve pressure from your joints
• Gel foam toppers often have temperature-regulating qualities
• Natural filling toppers are usually softer and deeper
• Hollowfibre toppers provide a cushioning layer for added comfort

So, no matter what mattress you have or how you like to sleep, we have the mattress topper for you.

3. They keep your mattress cleaner and fresher

As mattress toppers sit on top of your mattress, they can protect it from hair, dust mites and other particles that would usually become embedded in your mattress over time.

Most mattress toppers come with a removable, washable cover for easy cleaning.

Some mattress toppers are even hypoallergenic, which means that if you have sensitive skin, they can help ease the itch. 

4. They can save you money

After a few years, your mattress may start to feel a little bit less comfortable than it used to. Rather than investing in a brand new mattress, you can buy a topper which would be easier to maneuver, and cost less.

5. They can change the feel of your mattress

Most mattress toppers are designed to provide either more support or cushioning comfort.

Memory foam and other foam toppers usually provide more firmness. Toppers with natural fillings such as wool provide cosier, sink-in comfort.

Check the product description of each topper as firmness can vary between manufacturers.

6. They can make your mattress feel warmer or cooler

 Some mattress toppers can change how warm or cool your mattress feels.

Gel foam mattress toppers can usually make your mattress feel slightly cooler. Thicker mattress toppers will make your mattress feel warmer.

These properties can vary depending on the material and construction methods used, so it is a good idea to research a particular product thoroughly before buying. 

7. They are versatile

Unlike mattresses, you can buy and easily store more than one mattress topper. This allows you to swap toppers depending on the seasons, making your bed cooler or warmer as you like.

Some people also choose to use a topper only occasionally — for example, to add extra comfort when recovering from an injury, or to make a spare bed softer when hosting a guest who prefers a different comfort level.

This versatility means mattress toppers can be used to adapt any sleep environment to changing needs and personal preferences.

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Types of mattress toppers

Just like with mattresses, there are different types of mattress topper, each with a different set of benefits.

The four types of mattress toppers we’ll be talking about are:

• Gel mattress toppers
• Memory foam mattress toppers
• Wool mattress toppers
• Hollowfibre mattress toppers

Gel mattress toppers

Gel mattress toppers are made with a layer of gel foam, which can help relieve pressure on the joints and often feel cooler than other types of toppers.

What are the benefits of a gel mattress topper?

Gel mattress toppers can provide:

• Pressure relief
• Temperature regulation
• A plush feel

Are gel mattress toppers good for your back?

They can help relieve pressure from your lower back, but you will feel the most benefit if the topper is placed on a firm or orthopaedic mattress.

Memory foam mattress toppers

Memory foam mattress toppers are often more dense and heavy than other types of toppers. They are made up of either one or multiple layers of memory foam that mould to your body shape.

What are the benefits of a memory foam mattress topper?

Memory foam mattress toppers offer:

• Pressure relief
• Personalised support and comfort
• A supportive feel

Are memory foam mattress toppers good for your back?

Memory foam mattresses can help reduce back discomfort by providing some pressure relief.

However, if your memory foam topper is not being supported by a suitable orthopaedic or firm mattress, you may not see any improvement in your comfort levels.

Are memory foam mattress toppers hot?

This varies between products. In general, memory foam mattress toppers are now much better at not absorbing heat, but many customers find they do feel warmer than other types of toppers.

This is because memory foam uses your body heat to help mould itself around your shape to provide comfort and support. Gel mattress toppers can offer a cooler alternative.

Wool mattress toppers

Wool mattress toppers - or any other toppers with natural fillings - are usually deeper and thicker than foam toppers. They are typically softer and thicker than foam and provide that ‘sink-in’ feeling.

What are the benefits of a wool mattress topper?

Wool mattress toppers have:

• Better breathability
• A softer feel
• Thicker layers of fillings
• Natural fillings

Are wool mattress toppers hot?

This often depends on the season. Wool is a naturally breathable material and this can help to regulate your body temperature.

It means that wool can keep you cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.

Hollowfibre mattress toppers

Hollowfibre mattress toppers are typically soft and padded, adding an extra layer of cushioning to a mattress. They are often less expensive than other types of toppers, making them a cost-effective choice.

What are the benefits of a hollowfibre mattress topper?

Hollowfibre mattress toppers are:

• Soft and padded
• Budget-friendly
• Suitable for any type of mattress

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The difference between a mattress topper and a mattress protector

The main difference between mattress toppers and protectors is that mattress toppers are designed for additional comfort, while protectors are designed to protect your mattress.

Below we’ve explained the main differences between the two:

Mattress toppers	Mattress protectors
Feel quite cushioned or foamy	Protects against spills and accidents
Can improve the comfort level of your mattress	Will extend the lifespan of your mattress
Can make your mattress more comfortable/supportive	Keeps your mattress clean and fresh
Help to relieve pressure	Can protect you from allergies
Will change the feel of your mattress	May help preserve the mattress warranty
You can swap them according to the seasons	-

Both a mattress protector and a topper can be used on your mattress at the same time.

If you do choose to use both, your topper should go underneath the protector.

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The difference between a mattress topper and a pillow top mattress

Mattress toppers and pillow top mattresses are actually two very different products with a similar name.

Pillow top mattresses are mattresses that have a specialised layer built onto the top of the mattress for more luxurious comfort.

Mattress toppers are a product that you buy separately from your mattress. They are a layer that sits on top of your mattress to provide more comfort.

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If you’re ready to explore mattress toppers further, you could have a look at our mattress topper range.