Firm Mattress Toppers

Best Firm Mattress Toppers UK (2024)

Last updated: 25.03.2024 Reading time: 8 Min.

Struggling with a soft mattress that leaves your spine crying out for help? 😬

Perhaps, a firm mattress topper is the magic trick you've been missing.

But can an extra firm topper really turn your soft, dough-like mattress into a fortress of comfort? 🧱

And what are the best firm mattress toppers available?

Let’s find out! 👇

people sitting on mattress topper

The best firm mattress toppers in the UK

Sleep Hero Favourite

Simba Mattress Topper

The Simba mattress topper is a high-quality hybrid topper.
  • Synthetic latex, mini pocket springs & Simba-Pure foam
  • 7 cm (2.7 inches)
  • Available in standard UK sizes 

Tell me more about the Simba Hybrid mattress topper

The Simba Hybrid mattress topper features three advanced layers, including synthetic latex, mini pocket springs, and Simba-Pure foam. 

The Simba-Pure foam is CertiPUR-certified [1] and guaranteed to be free from TCPP, phosphates, parabens, biocides and persistent organic pollutants. 

This is a cooling mattress topper, as the springs allow for maximum airflow. 

The cover with 3D mesh fabric is also ultra-breathable, further enhancing airflow and helping with temperature regulation. 

Because of its hybrid composition, the Simba topper also feels much firmer than pure foam toppers. 

The Simba topper has an anti-slip base and elasticated straps to keep it firmly in place on your mattress. 

Reasons to buy

CertiPUR-US certified 

1-year guarantee

Free delivery & returns 

Reasons to avoid

The trial period is only 14 days

Quite expensive 

Customisable Comfort

Emma Flip Mattress Topper

The Emma mattress topper has a unique dual-sided design.
  • Airgocell memory foam & ZeroGravity cold foam
  • 5 cm (1.9 inches)
  • Machine-washable cover

Tell me more about the Emma Flip Topper

The Emma Flip Topper has a unique dual-sided design with two foam layers.

These are:

  • Comfort side: Airgocell foam
  • Support side: ZeroGravity foam

The comfort side is slightly softer, while the support side is a little firmer. 

This makes the Emma mattress topper a great option for sleepers who need a little more variety or are unsure whether they need more softness or firmness.

The topper also comes with a breathable, cooling cover that is fully machine-washable, which is great for hygienic reasons. 

Reasons to buy

100-night sleep trial 

10-year guarantee

Machine-washable cover

Reasons to avoid

It doesn't include straps to fix it to the mattress

Not available in a single or small double 

EXTRA 5% OFF WITH
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BUY EMMA FLIP TOPPER£ 189

Great For Hot Sleepers

Inofia Gel Mattress Topper

The Inofia mattress topper is made with cooling gel and pressure-relief memory foam.
  • Geltex memory foam & lavender Reliefoam
  • 8 cm (3.14")
  • Great for hot sleepers & pressure relief 

Tell me more about the Inofia Gel Mattress Topper

The Inofia Gel Mattress Topper is breathable and supportive. 

The two-layer structure of Gelex memory foam and lavender Reliefoam can help enhance the comfort of your current mattress. 

Rated as "plush firm", this memory foam topper has responsive support. 

If you're not satisfied with this mattress topper, you can get a full refund within 100 nights. 

The Inofia Gel Mattress Topper is delivered rolled up and can be re-rolled for easy transport. 

This gel mattress topper comes with free delivery & returns. 

Reasons to buy

100-night sleep trial 

Washable cover

Firm & supportive feel 

Reasons to avoid

May shift/slide on the mattress

Can a mattress topper make a bed more firm?

Typically, a mattress topper will provide a soft cushioning layer that hugs pressure points (such as your hips and shoulders) and softens the feel of a too-firm mattress. ☁️

But can a mattress topper make a bed firmer?

Do mattress toppers come in different firmnesses?

Generally, most mattress toppers are available in a soft to medium-firm feel.

However, some toppers are made with firmer support, which can give a soft mattress some extra oomph.

woman laying on firm mattress topper
A hard mattress topper can make a soft mattress more supportive.

The firmness of a mattress topper typically depends on the materials.

For example, a topper made with latex or springs will usually feel firmer than a memory foam topper.

An extra firm mattress topper can provide a layer of solid comfort that gives your spine additional support during sleep. 🤗

Should I replace my mattress?

However, a firm mattress topper cannot fix what’s broken. 🛠️

woman laying on sagging mattress
A firmer mattress topper isn’t a solution for an old mattress.

If your current mattress is particularly old and sagging, there is only so much a very firm mattress topper can do.

Ask yourself:

  • Is my mattress older than 7 years?
  • Does my mattress have indents and soft spots?
  • Does my mattress feel lumpy or have rolls?

If you answered yes to any of those questions, it might be time to invest in a new mattress. 😨

Our firmer favourites include the DreamCloud Luxury Hybrid and Panda Hybrid Bamboo mattress.

Alternatively, take a look at our guide on the best mattresses.

Firm mattress topper buying guide

Choosing a firm mattress topper can feel a bit like searching for a needle in a haystack. 🪡

Typically, mattress toppers come with a soft, body-hugging feel, and it’s not easy trying to find a firm topper.

Likewise, some manufacturers don’t specify a firmness, employing that their topper is universal to every need. 🤔

However, that’s simply not the case.

Consider the following:

These factors will depend on your individual needs for your sleep.

Our buying guide below can help you find the perfect mattress topper for your requirements. 👇

Temperature

Some materials can regulate body temperature, whilst others retain heat and keep you warm.

temperature regulation scale
Materials have different reactions to body temperature.

Firm mattress toppers are often made with more solid materials like latex, gel or springs.

This will provide an overall cooler sleep as latex is breathable, and gel absorbs heat for temperature regulation. ❄️

The Simba Hybrid topper is one of our favourite cooling mattress toppers, as it has a breathable pocket spring layer for enhanced airflow.

BUY SIMBA TOPPER£ 299

The type of mattress you sleep on will also affect the overall temperature.

You are more likely to experience overheating on a memory foam mattress, whilst a pocket spring mattress provides better circulation. 🌬️

Woman laying on pocket sprung mattress
Pocket spring mattresses encourage airflow throughout.

Likewise, sleeping with a lower tog or cooling duvet can help you have a cooler sleep.

Firmness

Different materials can make your topper softer or firmer.

As a general guideline when choosing mattress topper materials:

  • Soft mattress topper materials include memory foam, feather and down, hollowfibre
  • Medium to firm bed topper materials latex, gel foam, hybrid/pocket springs

However, this also depends on other factors, such as the quality of the material and its structural makeup.

But what firmness level is best depends on how you sleep.

firmness according to sleep position graphic
Different sleeping positions require different firmness levels.

If you have a partner, you should also consider their sleeping preferences and needs. 👩‍❤️‍👨

You should also consider the firmness of your current mattress.

For example, a soft mattress topper paired with an extra firm mattress will likely create a medium-firm level of comfort.

If you find yourself sinking too deeply into your mattress, causing your back to sag, consider choosing a firmer mattress topper. ⚓

On the other hand, if you wake up with achy joints, a softer topper might be the solution for added pressure relief.

Lifespan

Some materials last much longer than others.

Firm mattress toppers are typically made from longer-lasting materials such as memory foam or latex.

Softer toppers made from hollowfibre will lose shape more quickly.

You’ll want to invest in the most durable materials to ensure your mattress or topper lasts. 💪

Our guide on material durability:

Material Lifespan
Latex 12 - 15 years
Feather and down 8 - 10 years
Memory foam 6 - 10 years
Hollowfibre 3 - 5 years

As you can see, a latex topper is the most durable, but this is also one of the most expensive mattress toppers you can buy.

We recommend choosing a firm topper that comes with a warranty.

This ensures that it will last for a specified number of years and provides protection against any unexpected manufacturing faults or material defects.

The Emma Flip topper includes an impressive 10-year guarantee.

EXTRA 5% OFF WITH
SLEEPHEROUK5Click to copy code

BUY EMMA FLIP TOPPER£ 189

Sustainability

As a conscious consumer in a world of mass-produced products, you may be interested in your firm mattress topper’s impact on the environment. 🌎

Consider:

  • How is my product manufactured?
  • Is the material recyclable?
  • Is the packaging recyclable?
  • Will it last a long time?
  • Do the materials contain chemicals?

Both firm and regular mattress topper brands have different practices when it comes to sustainability, often depending on the product's material.

For example, memory foam is a type of polyurethane foam that contains volatile organic compounds [2] (VOCs).

While it is a great hypoallergenic option which prevents dust mites, its also not the easiest material to recycle and often ends up in landfills.

Many firm mattress toppers are made from natural products, such as latex, which are more eco-friendly.

Latex is manufactured from rubber trees that can produce latex sap for up to 30 years and is fully biodegradable.

Latex being harvested from a tree
Latex is a sustainably sourced natural material.

Likewise, bamboo is a fast-growing crop that uses less water than cotton in the manufacturing process. 💧

However, as these materials are often grown overseas, you should also consider the overall carbon footprint.

Look for a hard mattress topper that is CERTIPUR-US [1] or OEKO-TEX [3] certified, as the materials have been tested against harmful chemicals. ✔️

certifications graphic
Many mattress toppers have been tested against harmful chemicals.

The foam used in the Simba topper is CertiPUR-certified, ensuring it contains no TCPP, phosphates, parabens, biocides, or other harmful chemicals.

BUY SIMBA TOPPER£ 299

Sleeping position

Before investing in a firm mattress topper, consider whether it would be suitable for your sleeping position.

What firmness is best for side sleepers?

Sleeping on your side is the most popular sleeping position. 🙌

In fact, 41% of British people like to snooze in this foetal position.

This position puts the most pressure on the hips and shoulders since your entire weight is pressing down into these areas. ⚓

Instead of a firm topper, we recommend a soft to medium feel topper for side sleepers. ☁️🧸

woman with correct spinal alignment
A mattress topper can relieve pressure.

A thick mattress topper is also great, as this allows more material to contour around the joints easily and relieve pressure.

One of our favourites, the Hypnia topper, is a great choice for those who need to add some softer comfort to their mattress. 🥰

EXTRA 10% OFF WITH
SH10Click to copy code

25% OFF HYPNIA ULTIMATE MATTRESS TOPPER

What firmness is best for back and stomach sleepers?

In contrast, back and stomach sleepers need an extra firm mattress topper for a comfy sleep. 😍

This helps keep the spine straight and aligned with the neck throughout the night.

Back sleepers should opt for a medium-firm feel. 🧱

Most mattress toppers are soft to medium-firm and generally hug around the body for more adaptive comfort.

But most stomach sleepers need even firmer support to keep the spine lifted and aligned with the neck.

Therefore, it’s unlikely that even the firmest mattress topper will be suitable for stomach sleepers. 🙁

Instead, consider replacing your mattress with a firmer choice, such as the Origin Hybrid mattress.

How much are firm mattress toppers?

Firm mattress topper prices vary. 💰

Typically, a mattress topper will cost anywhere from £100 or more, depending on the size you need.

Microfibre toppers, such as the Dual Layer topper, are cheaper as this material is easier to manufacture.

EXTRA 15% OFF WITH
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BUY DUAL LAYER TOPPER£ 100

You can also get more budget-friendly IKEA mattress toppers, but generally, the more you spend, the better the quality of the topper.

price performance ratio graphic
You should weigh up your budget against the quality of the topper you want to buy.

If you want a topper to make a big difference to your mattress comfort, then we recommend investing in the best quality you can afford.

Firm mattress topper discount codes

You can also find firm mattress toppers on sale. 🏷️

Firm mattress toppers can be as much as 50% off the original price during seasonal periods and throughout the year.

Bookmark our discounts page for updates on all offers on mattress toppers and other sleep accessories.

Alternatively, sign up for our newsletter to get updates on all the latest mattress topper offers:

How long do firm mattress toppers last?

Many mattress toppers come with a guarantee.🤞

This means you’ll be protected for a specified amount of time against any manufacturing faults.

These faults include material dipping, seams coming apart or any other faults not caused by accidents or general wear and tear. 🛠️

Woman measuring indentation in mattress topper.
Most mattress toppers are guaranteed against manufacturing faults such as indentations.

If a fault is found, the mattress topper will usually be replaced with a new one. ✨

The guarantee you get is often a good indication of how long the product lasts.

Firm mattress toppers can last anywhere from 1 to 10 years, depending on the material.

Toppers made from springs, latex, and memory foam usually last longer, while soft hollowfibre toppers might lose shape more quickly.

Do firm mattress toppers work?

A firm mattress topper is an excellent solution for those who need extra support during sleep.

They’re a great choice for:

  • Back sleepers
  • Those with a mattress under 7 years old
  • Those with a thin or soft mattress that is in otherwise good condition

However, even a very firm mattress topper cannot compensate for an old, sagging mattress with indentations or other faults. 👀

Instead, you should consider replacing the mattress altogether.

Not sure a firm mattress topper is what you need?

Our guide on the best mattresses can help you out.

Here's a reminder of our favourite firm topper UK:

Frequently asked questions

  • Can you get hard mattress toppers?


    Generally, mattress toppers will add an extra layer of comfort to your mattress and make it feel softer rather than firmer. 

    However, there are some extra firm mattress toppers available, such as the ones listed at the top of our article. 

    These may provide some additional firmness to a mattress which feels slightly too soft. 

    Nonetheless, should you find yourself sinking excessively into your mattress, feeling that it lacks the necessary firmness to adequately support your body, you may want to contemplate upgrading your mattress.

    Our guide on the best firm mattresses has the top recommendations for those who need additional support during sleep. 

  • What’s the best firm mattress topper for back pain?


    The best firm mattress toppers for back pain support the spine and cushion around pressure-point areas. 

    When choosing a mattress topper to alleviate aches and pains, you should also consider your sleeping position. 

    Scroll to the top of the article for our favourite extra firm mattress topper UK recommendations. 

    Back pain during sleep is usually caused by sleeping on an unsupportive mattress or the wrong firmness level for your sleep. 

    Try this:

    • Side sleepers will do best on a soft, thick mattress topper that cushions around the hips and shoulders. 
    • Back sleepers should consider a medium-firm and average depth mattress topper that supports the spine and hugs around the pelvis. 
    • If you’re a stomach sleeper suffering from back pain, consider investing in an extra firm mattress and a low and soft pillow to keep the spine and neck aligned. 

    A firming mattress topper or a new mattress is not a cure for health-related medical concerns. 

    You should seek advice from a medical professional if you have a medical condition that causes back pain. 

  • Can you wash a firm mattress topper?


    Unfortunately, most firm mattress toppers are not washable. ❌

    This is because getting liquid onto materials such as memory foam or gel can damage the components. 

    Therefore, we'd always recommend using a waterproof mattress protector on top of your topper. 

    Mattress toppers are also very large, making it difficult to squeeze them into a washing machine.

    But many firm mattress toppers come with washable covers

    You can take the cover off the topper and pop it into the washing machine with your regular bedding. 🧼

    You should check the care instructions on your firm mattress topper before removing the cover or washing the topper. 

    The Emma Flip topper has a firm and soft side and includes a fully washable cover

  • What is the best mattress topper for a firm mattress?


    The best mattress topper for a firm bed will be soft and body-hugging. 🤗

    It will mould around pressure-point areas such as the hips and shoulders and prevent aches and pains. 

    It will be soft enough to keep the back straight without too much sinkage to create a bend in the spine. 

    The Hypnia topper and Panda topper are excellent options for those who need soft, body-hugging support

    But those who sleep on their side and individuals with lighter body weights may want to think about switching to a softer mattress.

  • Firm mattress topper sizes


    Firm mattress toppers come in standard UK sizes.

    These include:

    • Firm mattress topper single: 90 x 190 cm (3' x 6'3")
    • Firm mattress topper small double: 120 x 190 cm (4' x 6'3")
    • Firm mattress topper double: 135 x 190 cm (4'6" x 6'3")
    • King size firm mattress topper: 150 x 200 cm (5' x 6'6")
    • Firm mattress topper super king size: 180 x 200 cm (6' x 6'6")

    Some hard mattress toppers may also be available in EU sizes

  • References

Holly

Holly Matthews

Senior Content Writer

Holly has been a content writer at Sleep Hero UK since 2021. With an MA degree in literature and previous experience working at a leading UK bed retailer, she is committed to using her skills to guide others towards making better sleep choices.

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