How We Test Mattress Toppers
Our bedding experts use their extensive backgrounds in testing bedding to review materials and features for each topper. Next, we call in samples for at-home sleep testers to try out on their own beds. After sleeping on the toppers for several weeks, each tester fills out a survey to provide in-depth feedback. Our analysts follow up with testers annually to check how the mattress toppers are holding up with extended use. Here’s how we analyze the mattress toppers:
- Comfort: Users give the mattress topper a rating for how comfortable it feels to lie on underneath their sheets.
- Mattress enhancement: We review in detail if and how the topper changes the feel of our tester’s mattress.
- Ease of use: Testers rate how easy it is to put the topper onto their beds.
- Temperature: Each reviewer notes whether or not they maintained a comfortable body temperature while sleeping on the topper.
- Stay-in-place capabilities: The toppers are given scores for whether or not they shift around on the beds during use.
- Sound: To ensure the toppers will be quiet and undetectable, each one is rated for whether it made noise during use.
- Overall satisfaction: Finally, testers tell us whether they liked sleeping on the mattress topper, whether they plan to continue using it and any other comments that could help provide more insight.
Parachute Down Alternative Mattress Pad
Price:Cover Material:Fill:
- Those who want to add cushioning to their sleep surface
Highlights:
- Plush, animal-free fiber fill mimics the exceptional softness of real down
- Smooth cambric cotton shell encases the pad
- Elastic perimeter helps ensure a secure fit
Most mattress pads provide minimal padding, especially compared to toppers, but the Parachute Down Alternative Mattress Pad is a notable exception. The fill consists of microfiber clusters engineered to mimic the lightness and softness of real down without relying on animal-based materials, retaining heat, or triggering allergy symptoms. A relatively thick profile adds substantial cushioning to your mattress.
A shell made of smooth cambric cotton encases the fill and adds to the breathable design. Double-stitch baffle boxes evenly distribute the fill and help maintain a full shape. The perimeter is elasticated for a secure fit. With a pocket depth of 18 inches, the pad is compatible with the vast majority of mattresses sold today. The pad is fully machine-washable, though you can opt for dry cleaning if this method is more convenient. Six sizes are available for the pad, all of which correspond to standard mattress dimensions.
The Down Alternative Mattress Pad is competitively priced and Parachute offers free ground shipping to all 50 states. The company takes measures to ensure carbon-neutral shipping foreach order. If you are not satisfied with your purchase, you may return the pad within 60 days.
Lucid Down Alternative & Gel Memory Foam Mattress Topper
LUCID Down Alternative and Gel Memory Foam Mattress Topper
LUCID Down Alternative and Gel Memory Foam Mattress Topper
- Fill materials: Gel-infused memory foam, synthetic down alternative
- Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
This pick is a hybrid mattress topper that combines foam and fiberfill for support and pillow-top comfort, but it’s available from Amazon for a lower cost and with the convenience of Prime shipping. The bottom layer is memory foam infused with gel, while the top layer includes pockets of down alternative for plush padding. It goes onto your bed like a fitted sheet to help everything stay in place, though it doesn’t have the strap to keep the two layers extra secure together.
It’s a luxurious four inches high with equal parts foam and pillow top, but it’s actually two separate pieces that you can layer together or use separately. The down alternative top layer that holds everything together is machine washable and dryer safe. Just note that some reviewers noted it sleeps hot, despite the gel infusion in the foam.
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Best Mattress Pads Of 2022
Keith Cushner, Sleep Product Expert
Methodology
We personally test every product featured in our reviews and guide to provide accurate, data-driven recommendations. Learn More
In light of some recent tests, we’ve updated this page to add a few more products. The PlushBeds Reversible Mattress Pad is now our best luxury pick, the Parachute Down Alternative Mattress Pad is our softest pick, and the Naturepedic Organic Waterproof Pad is our top pick for kids. The Saatva Organic Mattress Pad remains our best overall pick for this product category.
Sleepfoundation.org is reader-supported. We may earn a commission through products purchased using links on this page. Learn more about our process
Silk & Snow Organic Mattress Topper
Price:Firmness:
Who it’s best for:
- Breathable cotton and Dunlop latex help regulate temperature
- Components hold GOTS and GOLS certifications
Use this SleepFoundation.org link for the most current discount on Silk & Snow mattress toppers
Silk & Snows Organic Mattress Topper features a Dunlop latex core. This material offers moderate cushioning without sinking too deeply beneath a sleepers weight, resulting in a comfortable balance of pressure relief and support. The toppers components are also backed by Global Organic Textile Standard and Global Organic Latex Standard certifications. Hot sleepers who prioritize organic bedding may want to consider this pick.
An organic cotton cover encases the topper. Cotton is naturally breathable and moisture-wicking, great for sleepers living in warm or humid climates. For easy care, you can remove and machine wash the cover. Please note that the latex core should only be spot cleaned.
A 2-inch profile makes the topper an excellent choice for sleepers wishing to improve the feel of a mattress with minor wear. Two firmnesses are available: medium and firm . Our testing found the medium feel best suited for side sleepers over 230 pounds and back sleepers, who should find relief for pressure points without sinking excessively. The firm model offered an even sleep surface comfortable for back sleepers over 230 pounds and stomach sleepers.
Lab Notes What Our Testers Thought
Best for Back Pain
Highlights:
Firmness:
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Does A Mattress Topper Really Help
Yes, a mattress topper can really help you sleep better! As long as your mattress is not sinking or sagging , a topper can spruce it up and change its overall feel. You can layer on a mattress topper for an enhanced feel, whether you purchased an expensive model that needs an affordable upgrade or you find your bed is lacking in comfort or support. Mattress toppers also provide a boost to an older mattress if you’re finding you no longer love the feel but aren’t ready to buy an entirely new mattress.
How We Picked And Tested
We spoke to experts, read user reviews and parenting blogs, and talked to our staff to find out what the most important features are in a mattress protector. We checked Amazons top sellers, took recommendations from our staff, researched offerings from bedding companies whose products weve tested in the past, and looked at protectors in stores, compiling a list of 36 products.
Our research helped us to determine the following criteria that make a great mattress protector:
Safe materials: In our research we noted many concerns from parents about vinyl protectors, although one manufacturer told us its vinyl protectors are more waterproof than its polyurethane options. There is evidence that phthalates can cause health problems in pregnant women and children, and several phthalates are restricted from use in products aimed at kids. Wherever possible we looked at materials like polyurethane and natural fibers first, and then also considered vinyl if it was phthalate-free.
Mattress protectors have a limited life span. If you wash and dry one enough times, the waterproofing will fail.
Comfortable: Because these protectors are a barrier between your sheets and your mattress, we wanted to make sure they felt good to sleep on. No overheating, no bunching, no sliding around on the bed. We paid attention to complaints of discomfort in user reviews.
We then slept a night each on those three protectors to assess how comfortable they were to use.
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What Material Is Best For Mattress Pad
Cotton: great for easy washing ability , and provides a nice soft hand-feel. Cotton is also a very durable material, which means it will last much longer than other fabrics. Even after several washes, a cotton mattress pad will still be soft and durable.Also Read:When Is The Best Time To Buy Airline Tickets For Christmas 2017
Mattress Covers For All Sizes
Your mattress is a big investment, and it makes sense to protect it. Big Lots has a complete collection of mattress pads and covers to fit any sized bed to offer an extra layer of comfort. Sleep soundly on breathable quilted padding designed with cooling in mind. Waterproof vinyl mattress covers keep your bed clean and dry and we also have mattress covers that protect against allergies and bedbugs. Mattress pads are easy-care machine wash and tumble dry or spot-clean with a damp cloth. You can find these bedroom essentials at your local Big Lots. You can also order online for home delivery or contactless curbside pickup.
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How To Choose A Mattress Pad
Mattress pads are great for different reasons, like providing support by adding extra cushion to your mattress, protection for your mattress from dirt, sweat, stains, and dust mites, and provide a longer lifespan to the mattress. Mattress pads usually have elastic edging to keep the mattress pad in place . Additionally, important information to look for is the thread count. Like a duvet covers, comforters, and set of sheets, thread count is the number of threads woven into a square inch of fabric. Thread count is still an important factor to consider when choosing a mattress pad.
The higher the thread counts the tighter the weaves indicating the quality and durability of the mattress pad. Since higher thread counts mean tighter weaves, a high thread count will keep the fill in and debris out.
Which Mattress Topper Is Right For You
Disclaimer: The information provided is in no way intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or care. Always consult your physician or other health care provider in order to determine the best course of action in treating any medical issues.
Everyone is different, and when it comes to getting a great night’s sleep, no two people are alike regarding their specific sleep needs. So which mattress topper is the right one for you? Kohl’s offers a wide selection of the best brands including Lucid Dream, Comfort Escape, and Serta. If you suffer from back issues, a soft solution mattress topper may not be the best option. Softer toppers, while offering extraordinary comfort, does not offer proper body alignment which can aggravate already existing lower back pain. For back pain problems, a medium firm mattress topper is recommended as it tends to better promote proper spinal alignment.
So when you’re ready to get that quality night’s sleep you’ve always wanted, shop Kohl’s for the best selection of mattress toppers with all the features you’re looking for including memory foam mattress toppers, hypoallergenic mattress toppers, and waterproof mattress toppers. And while you’re at it, be sure to check out our bedding buying guide and shop our full line of bedding accessories including pillows, blankets, throws, and so much more at Kohl’s!
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Why Trust Good Housekeeping
Lexie Sachs is the Executive Director of the Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute, where she oversees testing to find the best bedding, including mattress toppers. She has been reviewing toppers firsthand since she joined Good Housekeeping in 2013, reviewing them in the Lab and sending them to the homes of consumer testers for more feedback. She also loves trying out mattress toppers on her own bed and swears by their ability to change the feel of the mattress.
Which Type Of Mattress Pad Should I Choose
Mattress pads come in a number of types of materials, although the range of construction is narrower than in mattress toppers. Each way of designing a mattress pad brings potential benefits and downsides.
Cotton is one of the most popular choices for mattress pads. Its performance is impressive, providing softness and moisture-wicking with virtually no noise. Most cotton is durable and can be safely machine-washed and dried. Some types of cotton mattress pads are available at a low cost, but many, including higher-end and organic cotton mattress pads, are more expensive.
Polyester is another of the most common materials used in mattress pads. Polyester can be thin and soft, like in athletic clothing, or brushed microfiber, which has a plush feel. Polyester can wick moisture, although it is not as breathable as cotton. Polyester mattress pads are often the least expensive and easy to launder, but their reduced durability is a drawback.
Down feathers are found in many bedding products, including mattress pads. Downs light and soft feel makes this material especially popular in thicker mattress pads meant to provide a plush sleeping surface. The negatives to down are its high price point, its potential for causing allergies in some people, and its reduced loft and performance if it gets wet.
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How We Tested The Mattress Pads
Over the course of a day, members of The Spruces editorial team tested 12 total toppers at The Lab. We evaluated each topper on its comfort, support, breathability, effectiveness, durability, and overall value, rating it on a scale of 1 to 5. 10 of the 12 made it onto our final list.
To test the comfort and support of the mattress pads, we had our testers lay down and roll around on top of the mattress pads, noting their overall feel and whether they shifted or crinkled during use. For mattress pads that claimed to be waterproof, we spilled 1/2 cup of dyed water onto the pad to see whether it effectively protected the fitted sheet and mattress underneath. We also assessed the breathability of each topper, using a blowdryer to see how much air was able to pass through the material. We combined these insights with our writer and editors’ independent research to bring you this list.
The Spruce / Vicky Wasik
Sleep Number Dualtemp Individual Layer
Sleep Number DualTemp Individual Layer
Sleep Number DualTemp Individual Layer
- Fill materials: Air chambers
- Sizes: Half Queen, Half King, Half California King
This innovative cooling mattress topper is the perfect solution if you’re more concerned with adjusting the temperature of your bed than changing the feel of your mattress. It’s temperature-controlled through a remote so you can choose between various levels of warm and cool. A floor unit sends hot or cool air to the thin mattress topper through a tube, then spreads out through the layer. Even though it requires extra pieces, the tube fits under a fitted sheet and the floor unit can stay hidden under the bed.
Just note, this pad is pricey and fits only half the bed. You’ll need to buy two if both members of a couple want to control their side, meaning it could cost more than a mattress. That being said, it’s unique and our testers including couples with different preferences were able to get a personalized sleep temperature. And unlike other toppers where the cooling technologies are minimal and don’t last all night, this one keeps the cool air flowing continuously.
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Is A Mattress Pad The Same As A Mattress Protector
No, a mattress pad and protector have different purposes. While a mattress pad is used for extra cushioning, a mattress protector is a thinner stain-resistant layer that doesnt provide cushioning. Its sole purpose is to protect the mattress from dust, sweat, dust mites, and other allergens that can disrupt your sleep.
Do I Need A Mattress Pad Or Mattress Protector
Do I need a mattress pad or mattress protector for my new Casper, Tuft & Needle, Leesa, Saatva, or other online mattress? This is by far one of the most common questions I receive on my blog, and its long over due for a quick question and answer post.
First off, its important to note the differences between mattress pads and mattress protectors.
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How We Evaluated These Mattress Toppers
Testing toppers is much like testing mattresses. Our testers take turns sitting and lying down on each topper to evaluate qualities like motion isolation and ease of movement. We also use thermal imaging to measure heat retention and body-mapping sensors to monitor the buildup of pressure points. The best mattress toppers above stood out for various reasons, each one earning a spot on our top picks list. That said, well continue to evaluate mattress toppers in order to maintain an up-to-date list.
Turmerry Organic Latex Mattress Topper
Price:Firmness:
Who it’s best for:
- Shoppers looking for an eco-friendly topper
Highlights:
- Made with certified organic materials
- Two thickness and three firmness options
- Reasonable price-point
The Turmerry Organic Latex Mattress Topper is a latex model made with eco-friendly materials. This topper carries a reasonable price-point compared to other latex toppers, especially considering it is made with high-quality organic materials with the certifications to back them up. The wide firmness selection also makes the mattress suitable for side, back, or stomach sleeping.
Shoppers can purchase a 2-inch or 3-inch topper in soft , medium , or medium firm options. The topper is encased in an organic zippered cotton cover that can easily be removed for cleaning. The latex topper has both OEKO-TEX Standard 100 and Global Organic Latex Standard certifications, ensuring the materials are sustainably produced and free of harmful substances.
Multiple design options make this topper a good fit for a variety of sleep preferences and body types. Side sleepers will likely prefer the soft or medium toppers, which provide more contouring to ease pressure off the shoulders and hips during sleep. Back sleepers may benefit from the medium topper, since they typically require a balance of contouring and support to promote spinal alignment. Stomach sleepers require firm surfaces and will likely need the firm topper.
Lab Notes What Our Testers Thought
Best for Spinal Alignment
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