Simba Mattress Topper
- Simbatex foam, mini pocket springs, high-density base foam
- 6.5 cm (2.5 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 Simbatex foam, mini pocket springs, and a high-density base foam.
Both foams are CertiPUR-certified [1] and guaranteed to be free from TCPP, phosphates, parabens, biocides, and persistent organic pollutants.
Because of its hybrid composition, the Simba topper feels much firmer than pure foam toppers.
It can also be classified as a cooling mattress topper as the springs allow for maxium airflow.
Additionally, the cover with 3D mesh fabric is ultra-breathable, further enhancing airflow and helping with temperature regulation.
The Simba topper features an anti-slip base and elasticated straps to keep it firmly in place on your mattress.
Reasons to buy
Firmer, more cooling feel |
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CertiPUR-US certified |
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Risk-free 200-night trial |
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10-year guarantee |
Reasons to avoid
Not as body-hugging as memory foam toppers |
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Quite expensive |
Emma Flip Mattress Topper
- Airgocell memory foam & ZeroGravity cold foam
- 6 cm (2.3 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:
- 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's fully machine-washable, which is great for hygienic reasons.
Reasons to buy
Dual-sided design for softer and firmer comfort options |
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Machine-washable cover |
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100-night sleep trial |
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10-year guarantee |
Reasons to avoid
No straps to fix the topper to the mattress |
Inofia Gel Mattress Topper
- Gelex 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 offers responsive support.
Conveniently, the Inofia gel mattress topper is delivered rolled up and can be re-rolled for easy transport.
It also comes with free delivery and returns - if you're not satisfied with the product, you can get a full refund within 100 days.
Reasons to buy
Firm & supportive feel |
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Washable cover |
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100-night sleep trial |
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. ☁️
However, some toppers are made with firmer support, which can give a soft mattress some extra oomph.
An extra firm mattress topper can provide a layer of solid comfort that gives your spine additional support during sleep. 🤗
When should you replace your mattress instead?
A firm mattress topper cannot fix what’s broken. 🛠️
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 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 firmness, employing that their topper is universal to every need, which really isn't the case. 🤔
When looking for your next mattress topper, consider the following:
What is my 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, but it also puts the most pressure on the hips and shoulders.
This is because 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. ☁️🧸
A thick mattress topper is also great, as this allows more material to contour around the joints, helping to 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. 🥰
What firmness is best for back and stomach sleepers?
In contrast, back and stomach sleepers need a little more firmness to keep the spine straight and aligned with the neck throughout the night.
- Back sleepers should opt for a medium-firm feel.
- Stomach sleepers need even firmer support to keep the spine lifted.
Unfortunately, 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.
Should the topper be cool or warm?
Some materials help regulate body temperature, whilst others retain heat and keep you warm.
Firm mattress toppers are often made with more solid materials like latex, gel, or springs.
These materials all allow for an overall cooler sleep as latex is breathable, gel absorbs heat for advanced temperature regulation, and springs allow for additional airflow. ❄️
The Simba Hybrid topper is one of our favourite cooling mattress toppers.
Don't forget that your overall sleeping temperature will also be affected by the type of mattress you sleep on and the duvet you use.
Sleeping with a lower tog or cooling duvet, for example, can help you enjoy a cooler sleep overall.
Do I want a topper to add softness or support to my mattress?
Different materials can make your topper softer or firmer.
- Soft mattress topper materials: Memory foam, feather and down, hollowfibre
- Medium to firm bed topper materials: Latex, gel foam, hybrid/pocket springs
But the exact firmness you'll experience will also be influenced by other factors, such as the quality of the material, its structural makeup, and the firmness of your current mattress.
A soft mattress topper paired with an extra firm mattress, for example, will likely create a medium-firm level of comfort.
If you're not sure what you're looking for, ask yourself how much you want to sink into your topper - and how deeply you're sinking into your mattress already.
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.
How much are firm mattress toppers and what is my budget?
Firm mattress topper prices vary, costing anywhere from £100 and more, depending on the size you need.
Microfibre toppers, such as the Fine Bedding Company Dual Layer topper, are cheaper as this material is easier to manufacture.
You can also get more budget-friendly IKEA mattress toppers, but generally, the more you spend, the better the quality of the topper.
If you want a topper to make a big difference to your mattress comfort, we'd recommend investing in the best quality you can afford.
Luckily, though, you can find firm mattress topper discount codes, especially during peak seasonal periods like Black Friday or Boxing Day.
How long do firm mattress toppers last?
Firm mattress toppers are typically made from longer-lasting materials like memory foam or latex, meaning the overall lifespan of your topper will be greatly enhanced.
Softer toppers, like those made from hollowfibre, will lose shape more quickly.
Our guide on material durability:
| Lifespan | |
| Latex | 12 - 15 years |
| Feather and down | 8 - 10 years |
| Memory foam | 6 - 10 years |
| Hollowfibre | 3 - 5 years |
Latex toppers will be the most durable, but these are also among the most expensive mattress toppers you can buy.
Does sustainability matter?
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.
Overall sustainability often depends on the product's material.
For example, memory foam is a type of polyurethane foam that contains volatile organic compounds [2] (VOCs).
While it's a great hypoallergenic option that prevents dust mites, it's 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 or bamboo, which are more eco-friendly.
However, as these materials are often grown overseas, you should also consider the overall carbon footprint.
We'd also recommend looking for a hard mattress topper that is CERTIPUR-US [1] and/or OEKO-TEX [3] certified as this ensures the topper materials will have been tested against harmful chemicals. ✔️
The answers to these questions will help you narrow down the ideal topper.
Do firm mattress toppers work?
Firm mattress toppers are 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. 👀
Here's a reminder of the best firm mattress topper UK options:
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![Simba Hybrid Mattress Topper]()
![Simba Hybrid Mattress Topper]()
Simba![Simba]()
Mattress TopperPrice from £ 299The Simba mattress topper is a high-quality hybrid topper designed for firmer, cooling comfort.The Simba mattress topper is a high-quality hybrid topper designed for firmer, cooling comfort.Price from £ 299 -
![Emma Flip Topper]()
![Emma Flip Topper]()
Emma![Emma]()
Flip Mattress TopperPrice from £ 132.30 £ (189 )The Emma mattress topper has a unique dual-sided design, offering both firmer and softer comfort."Get 5% off with our exclusive 'SLEEPHEROUK5' discount code."The Emma mattress topper has a unique dual-sided design, offering both firmer and softer comfort."Get 5% off with our exclusive 'SLEEPHEROUK5' discount code."Price from £ 132.30 (£ 189 ) -
![Inofia Gel Mattress Topper]()
![Inofia Gel Mattress Topper]()
Inofia![Inofia]()
Gel Mattress TopperPrice from £ 93.49 £ (109.99 )The Inofia mattress topper is made with cooling gel and pressure-relieving memory foam.The Inofia mattress topper is made with cooling gel and pressure-relieving memory foam.Price from £ 93.49 (£ 109.99 )
Frequently asked questions
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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 that 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.
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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.
Back pain during sleep is usually caused by sleeping on an unsupportive mattress or the wrong firmness level for your sleep.
- 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.
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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, meaning you can take the cover off 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.
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What's 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 also be soft enough to keep the back straight without too much sinkage.
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.
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Firm mattress topper sizes
Firm mattress toppers come in standard UK sizes.
- 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.
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References
Alternatively, message us directly via the Contact Us page.