What is a Memory Foam Mattress Topper?
Memory foam mattress toppers are made up of a layer of memory foam encased in a cotton or polyester cover that sometimes comes quilted.
They can be used to elevate the feel of your mattress, making your sleep surface feel either firmer or softer, depending on your requirements. Memory foam is known for its pressure relieving qualities. The material moulds to your unique body shape, providing comfort and support where it's needed.
Here, we’ll talk you through the main benefits of memory foam mattress toppers, how to use them, maintain them and what you should consider before making a purchase.
Are memory foam mattress toppers any good?
As we’ve said above, memory foam toppers can work well with an existing mattress, especially if you prefer sleeping on a foam surface.
Here are some of the benefits of memory foam mattress toppers:
Pressure relief
Memory foam is unique in the way it shapes itself to your body while you sleep. Once moulded to your body, it provides support and pressure relief where you need it.
Versatility
You don’t have to use your memory foam mattress topper every night if you don’t want to. You can always take it off in the summer months if you feel like you’re getting a little bit too warm, then put it back on in the winter.
Specialised comfort
As we’ve explained above, memory foam provides unique support and comfort.
Comfort is subjective - what feels comfortable to you may not feel comfortable for your partner. But the unique thing about memory foam is that you can both enjoy comfort on the same sleep surface because the foam shapes to your individual body.
Money saving
It’s no secret that mattresses are a big investment, with a lifetime of around 7 years. But that doesn’t mean that your mattress can’t start feeling worn and tired sooner.
Memory foam mattress toppers can add a new lease of life to your mattress, and you only have to spend a fraction of the price.
Are memory foam mattress toppers good for your back?
This entirely depends on the mattress used with a mattress topper.
Although memory foam toppers can add extra support to your mattress, they can only improve the feel of the surface they are placed on to a point. So, if your current mattress is too worn, or is the type of mattress that doesn’t provide the right level of support for your back, you might want to consider buying a new one.
If back care and support are something that you are looking to prioritise, it might be an idea to look into firmer or orthopaedic mattresses. These mattresses have been designed specifically for improved lumbar support, providing additional pressure relief for your lower back and hips.
What to consider when choosing a memory foam mattress topper
What makes a memory foam mattress topper ‘the best’ differs from person to person. It depends on factors such as:
- Cost
- Firmness
- Material and density
- Special features
- Review
- Brand
It’s a good idea to set a budget, consider your firmness preferences (keeping in mind the mattress below) and do some research on a specific product’s particular features before buying. Memory foam can vary in density and type (standard, gel-infused, high-resilience), which affects support, durability, and temperature regulation. It can be helpful to read product reviews to see what others have experienced, and also to keep in mind that while well-known brands can offer reassurance, lesser-known brands may also provide good-quality products.
Evaluating these factors can help you choose a topper that suits your sleep needs.
Can you put a topper on a memory foam mattress?
Yes, you can put a topper on a memory foam mattress, and there are benefits to doing so.
Pairing a memory foam topper with a memory foam mattress creates a comfortable and supportive sleep surface. You can buy one with a mattress or invest in one later down the line, it can either protect a new mattress or bring new life to an older one.
Memory foam mattress toppers can increase the life span of your memory foam mattress. They protect against small spills and stains, and their foam support takes the strain off the mattress itself. For more protection from spills and accidents, a mattress protector is an option.
Can I wash a memory foam mattress topper?
It is possible to clean a memory foam mattress topper, and most memory foam mattress toppers have a removable cover that can be taken off and machine washed when necessary.
Your memory foam mattress topper should arrive with a care guide that contains cleaning instructions. Before following the advice below, please consult your care guide and follow the manufacturer's instructions.
If your memory foam topper does not have a recommended cleaning method, below is a generalised approach:
- Remove the topper from your mattress before cleaning
- Vacuum your topper to remove hair and dust
- If your mattress has a removable cover, take this off and perform the following steps on the cover (rather than the foam inside of the topper)
- Using a mixture of lukewarm water and mild laundry detergent, dab at any stains with a cloth or sponge
- Leave your memory foam topper to air dry
- Put your topper back on your mattress
Using too much water can damage the memory foam and affect its durability or warranty. This is because water can break down the memory foam layers inside the topper and affect its look and feel.
For a more in-depth guide to cleaning your mattress topper, check out our ‘How to Clean a Mattress Topper’ advice guide.
Or, if you’re curious about how to clean your memory foam mattress, you can read our ‘How to Clean a Memory Foam Mattress’ guide.
Memory foam mattress topper FAQs
Here we answer some of the questions our customers often ask before they make their memory foam mattress purchase.
Are memory foam mattress toppers hot?
Memory foam mattress toppers can get warm as they absorb the body heat they use to mould to your shape. They should not, however, get hot. As with every mattress, the warmer you get while you sleep, the warmer your memory foam topper will feel.
Can I use an electric blanket with a memory foam topper?
This depends on both your electric blanket and your memory foam topper manufacturer.
Please consult the care guides that came with your electric blanket and topper. If you cannot find any guidance on this, contact the manufacturer directly.
Can you roll up a memory foam mattress topper?
No, once your memory foam mattress has been unrolled, it cannot be re-rolled.
Rolling up your memory foam mattress topper once it has been unpackaged can severely damage the memory foam inside of the mattress, which may affect its overall look and feel.
You also risk invalidating your guarantee or warranty.
Can you cut a memory foam topper?
Under no circumstances should you cut a memory foam mattress topper.
By cutting your memory foam mattress topper, you will invalidate the guarantee or warranty and will ruin the overall quality and feel of your topper.
We hope we’ve been able to tell you a bit more about memory foam mattress toppers. Explore more about mattress topper options in our range.
Check out the following advice guides for more information on mattress toppers:
For additional information on memory foam-related products, the following guides can help:
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