Big Brand Sale
Ends In...
0 days 0 hrs 0 mins 0 secs
Shop now

Mattress Topper Questions and Answers

Mattress toppers can serve a variety of purposes but they can also raise a lot of questions. How are they different from a mattress protector? What are they made from? How thick should they be? And how do you stop them from sliding around?

This guide aims to answer some of the most frequently asked questions about mattress toppers. From understanding how they work to learning how long they last - and even whether they’re suitable for use with electric blankets - you’ll find everything you need to know below.


What does a mattress topper do?

Mattress toppers work in conjunction with a mattress to provide an extra layer of comfort.

If your mattress feels too firm or you miss that sink-in comfort, a mattress topper can help adjust its firmness.

They can also be used to prolong the life of a mattress by acting as a barrier between you and the mattress. This is similar to a mattress protector, but mattress toppers also help to:

  • Change the feel of your mattress
  • Increase comfort and support
Mattress toppers provide an extra boost of comfort

Back to the top


How long do mattress toppers last?

The lifespan of a mattress topper depends on its material, quality, and how often it’s used. If you sleep on your topper every night, it should be replaced every 3 to 5 years.

A mattress topper will go through a lot of wear and tear during this time and can deteriorate in terms of comfort and support.

To keep your sleep surface fresh and clean, it’s a good idea to replace your mattress topper every five years. Our bodies lose about half a pint of fluid and shed skin cells nightly, so cleaning alone isn’t enough to maintain hygiene.

If you don’t sleep on your topper nightly, you may not need to replace it as often.

Back to the top


Should sheets or a mattress protector go over a topper?

If you use both a mattress topper and protector, they should go in the following order:

  • Mattress
  • Mattress topper
  • Mattress protector
  • Sheets

This is because protectors are designed to shield your mattress and any other bedding from accidents and stains. The sheet on top helps to keep everything in place and stop the layers from sliding.

Back to the top


How do you fold a mattress topper?

Once a mattress topper has been unpackaged, it should not be re-rolled or re-folded, as this can damage the fillings inside.

Learn how to correctly store a mattress topper in our advice page on mattress and mattress topper storage.

Back to the top


Can a mattress topper be used as a mattress?

No, a mattress topper cannot be used as a mattress. They are designed to enhance, not replace, mattresses.

Mattress toppers do not provide enough support or comfort on their own because they typically range from 5 to 10cm in thickness. This isn’t deep enough to provide the full support your body needs overnight. Using one alone may leave you uncomfortable and waking up with aches and pains.

Back to the top


How to stop your mattress topper from sliding

There are several things that can be done to stop a mattress topper from slipping in the night:

  1. Choose the correct size
    • Make sure the topper matches the dimensions of your mattress. A topper that is too large or too small is more likely to slip as you move in the night.
  1. Check the depth compatibility
    • Most mattress toppers have a minimum or maximum mattress depth. If a mattress is too thin or too thick for your topper, it may cause the topper to either pop off the mattress or slide around too much.
  1. Use a tighter-fitted sheet
    • Using a snug, well-fitted sheet over both the mattress and topper can help hold the topper securely in place throughout the night.

Back to the top


Can you use an electric blanket with a mattress topper?

This varies between different mattress topper manufacturers. Some mattress topper brands stipulate that they can only be used with certain electric blankets or with none at all.

Always consult the care label or the manufacturer’s instructions before using an electric blanket with your mattress topper to ensure safety and avoid damaging the materials.

Back to the top


Now that we’ve answered the most asked mattress topper questions, you might like to explore our range of mattress toppers.

Mattress Online Logo