Best Mattress Toppers

Best Mattress Toppers UK (2024)

Last updated: 28.11.2024 Reading time: 9 Min.

You've probably heard about mattress toppers before.

But what exactly are they?

And do you need one?

We'll guide you through all the need-to-knows and recommend some of the best mattress toppers in the UK in this article.

Let's dive right in. πŸ₯³

Mattress Toppers

Our best mattress topper UK recommendations

Great For Hot Sleepers

Simba Mattress Topper

The Simba mattress topper is a high-quality hybrid topper designed for firmer, cooling comfort.
  • Simbatex foam, mini pocket springs, high-density base foam
  • 6.5 cm (2.5Β inches)
  • Available in standard UK sizesΒ 

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 areΒ CertiPUR-certified [1] and guaranteed to be free from TCPP, phosphates, parabens,Β biocides, and persistent organic pollutants.Β 

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

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

CertiPUR-US certified 

Risk-free 200-night trial

10-year guarantee

Reasons to avoid

Not as body-hugging as memory foam toppers

Quite expensive 

Memory Foam Comfort

Panda London Mattress Topper

The Panda mattress topper is a gel-infused memory foam topper with a breathable bamboo cover.
  • Gel-infused memory foam
  • 5 cm (2 inches)
  • Available in UK & EU sizes

Tell me more about the Panda mattress topper

The Panda mattress topper is one of our favourite budget-friendly toppers.

It's made of a gel-infused memory foam (called Hydro-foamβ„’), specifically designed with open-cell cooling technology and heat-sensitive capsules that keep you cooler than traditional memory foam.Β 

The memory foam also provides orthopaedic support and can help relieve neck, back, and hip pain.

The bamboo topper cover is soft, naturally breathable, and machine-washable up to 40℃.Β 

Conveniently, the Panda topper features an anti-slip layer and elastic corner straps to keep it firmly in place.Β 

Reasons to buy

Oeko-Tex Standard 100 + REACH certifications 

30-night trial period 

10-year guarantee

Reasons to avoid

It might be too soft for those in need of a firmer topper

It may initially have a chemical smell

Customisable Comfort

Emma Flip Mattress Topper

The Emma mattress topper has a unique dual-sided design, offering both firmer and softer comfort.
  • Airgocell memory foam & ZeroGravity cold foam
  • 6 cmΒ (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.Β 

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 breathableΒ cooling cover that's fully machine-washable, which is great for hygienic reasons.Β 

Reasons to buy

Dual-sided design for softer and firmer comfort options

Machine-washable cover

100-night sleep trial 

10-year guarantee

Reasons to avoid

No straps to fix the topper to the mattress

EXTRA 5% OFF WITH
SLEEPHEROUK5Click to copy code

-30% EMMA FLIP TOPPER

Best For Side Sleepers

Hypnia Ultimate Mattress Topper

The Hypnia Ultimate mattress topper offers premium memory foam support to side sleepers.
  • Soft memory foam
  • 8 cm (3.14")
  • Machine-washable cover

Tell me more about the Hypnia Ultimate mattress topper

The Hypnia Ultimate mattress topper adds aΒ deep layer of comfort to your current mattress.Β 

With an 8 cm (3.14") depth and aΒ soft and absorbing feel, it gently hugs your body like you're sinking into a marshmallow.Β 

This makes it ideal for those looking for orthopaedic, contouring support, especially for side sleepers.

The Hypnia topper has an ultra-breathable (machine-washable) cover that promotes ventilation for a cooler night.

It also has a non-slip base,Β designed to keep it secure on the mattress throughout the night.

However, this extra-deep topper sometimes slid off the bed during testing, so we would favour a design with straps for increased stability.

Reasons to buy

Significantly changes the feeling of the mattress

Extra deep and soft for contouring support, particulary for side sleepers

OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100 certification

30-night sleep trial

Reasons to avoid

There are no straps to prevent it from sliding 

Very thick, so not easy to store if not in use

EXTRA 10% OFF WITH
SH10Click to copy code

-25% HYPNIA ULTIMATE MATTRESS TOPPERΒ£ 179.99

What is a mattress topper?

A mattress topper is a 4 - 10 cm (1.57 - 3.9 inches) thick removable layer of extra padding that you place on top of your mattress.

Often designed as an additional layer of comfort, mattress toppers change the overall feel of your mattress πŸ‘

If you've purchased a high-quality mattress that's perfectly comfy, there's no need to buy a mattress topper.

But if your mattress is just a tad too firm, a mattress topper can really make a world of difference.

mattress topper as extra padding

As a guideline, you may need a mattress topper if:

  • You want to make your mattress feel softer.
  • You want a warmer sleep - or some more airflow if your actual mattress retains a lot of heat.
  • You need more orthopaedic support.
  • You share your bed with a partner and need better motion isolation.
  • You want to bridge the gap between two single mattresses on one double bed.

We go into the specifics of when a mattress topper can help and when it can't in more detail below. πŸ‘‡

Do you need a mattress topper?

A comfortable mattress topper can't solve all your mattress problems, and there are certainly some instances when buying a mattress topper is the wrong choice.

But, there are many times when purchasing a mattress topper is the perfect solution to your mattress-related problems.

This is great news as it'll save you the cost of having to buy a new mattress. πŸ₯³

Can a mattress topper make a firm mattress softer?

Yes - this is the number one reason people buy mattress toppers. πŸ₯‡

If you have a mattress with high-density foams or quality pocket springs that's still in perfect condition but just a bit too firm, a mattress topper is the perfect solution.

It's also much cheaper than buying a new mattress.

Mattress toppers of any material can add a top layer of soft cushioning to your mattress.

Memory foam, gel foam, and latex mattress toppers are the softest, while cold foam toppers and hybrid toppers are firmer.

Can a mattress topper provide orthopaedic support?

Mattress toppers can effectively reduce aches and pains and provide overall orthopaedic support if a mattress that's too firm is at fault.

If your mattress is too firm for you, your spine won't remain in optimal alignment while you sleep. πŸ“

You need a mattress that offers enough support for the lighter parts of your body but still offers enough sinkage for your hips and shoulders.

A mattress topper can provide this extra cushioning layer to help with spinal alignment.

Check out our guide on the best orthopaedic mattress toppers.

Can a mattress topper make you feel warmer or cooler?

Mattress toppers generally allow for a warm and cosy sleeping environment, especially if they're made from memory foam, a material known to retain body heat.

But you can also purchase cooling mattress toppers with cooling gel, enhanced breathability, and temperature-regulating properties. ❄️

These breathable mattress toppers are more suitable for hot sleepers as they won't increase the overall temperature.

Unfortunately, though, they're unlikely to have a cooling effect if your actual mattress stores a lot of heat.

Check out our guide on the best cooling mattresses instead.

Can a mattress topper be used to combine two single mattresses?

If you've used two single mattresses to form a super-king bed, you'll be familiar with the annoying gap between them.

A large mattress topper placed over both mattresses can help solve this problem.

This works best if both partners have similar body types.

If you've chosen two single mattresses because you and your partner have different support requirements, then a bed bridge is a better option.

You can also opt for a customisable mattress or a zip-and-link mattress.

Can a mattress topper ease motion transfer?

Yes, absolutely.

If you're sleeping on an innerspring or hybrid mattress, you're likely to experience some motion transfer.

This means that movements from your partner will be carried through the mattress. πŸ‘©β€β€οΈβ€πŸ‘¨

Adding a memory foam, polyfoam, or latex topper can decrease motion transfer and help you sleep more comfortably.

These mattress toppers are particularly great for couples.

We particularly like the Panda memory foam mattress topper - in our tests, it significantly altered the motion transfer of our mattress, resulting in calmer and more restful sleep.

Can a mattress topper help with back pain?

A mattress topper can help with back pain if a too-firm mattress is at fault.

But if your back pain is caused by a mattress of inferior quality that's too soft, old, worn, or sagging, a mattress topper won't make much of a difference. πŸ˜”

Similarly, if a damaged slatted frame is at fault, a mattress topper won't do much good.

Can a mattress topper make my soft mattress firmer?

Unfortunately, a mattress topper cannot add much firmness to your mattress.

Actually, the reverse is true - a mattress topper will generally make any mattress feel softer. 😳

Of course, the exact degree of firmness will depend on the material used in the topper.

Memory foam toppers are the softest, and cold foam toppers are the firmest. 🧱

A firm mattress topper can add some general firmness to your mattress, but it won't be able to completely change the way your bed feels.

If your mattress really is too soft, you'll have to buy a new one.

Can a mattress topper save an old, worn-out, and sagging mattress?

A mattress topper is not a substitute for a new mattress.

It may buy you some time, but if your mattress is old, worn out, or sagging, you absolutely have to replace it.

But, there is some playroom here.

If the comfort layer of your mattress has deteriorated and the surface feels a bit uneven, a good mattress topper can help.

But if the actual support of your mattress has dwindled, you'll have to replace it.

A sagging mattress can put excess pressure on your spine, leading to severe back pain - even the best bed topper can't fix this. 😩

If you need a new mattress, take a look at our best quality recommendations below.

Some of our favourite UK mattresses:

How to choose your perfect mattress topper

Not all mattress toppers are created equal, so if you're on the hunt for one, consider the following key criteria. πŸ•΅οΈβ€β™€οΈ

What is the density of the individual materials?

Density is important when choosing a new mattress, but it's equally important when looking at mattress toppers.

Density indicates the amount of material used during production.

The higher the density, the higher the quality of your mattress topper and the more durable it will be.

Density is most important when looking at foam mattress toppers, and we'd recommend a density of at least 40 - 50 kg/mΒ³. πŸ‘

What is the overall firmness?

While toppers don't necessarily have a set degree of firmness in the way mattresses do, the material used still affects how soft or firm the mattress topper is.

  • Most standard mattress toppers are categorised as medium-firm.
  • Memory foam toppers tend to be the softest.
  • Cold foam toppers are generally firmer.

Choose according to your personal needs and pay attention to your body weight, sleeping position, and size.

Your sensitivity to pressure also contributes to whether you need a soft or hard mattress topper.

How thick should a mattress topper be?

Most mattress toppers are between 4 cm (1.6 inches) and 10 cm (3.9 inches) thick.

The thickness you choose will depend on how much softness you require.

  • If you want a little bit more cushioning, a thinner topper will be sufficient.
  • If you need lots of additional cushioning, a deeper mattress topper is better.

We wouldn't recommend choosing a topper that's under 4 cm (1.57 inches) thick.

Take a look at our thick mattress topper reviews for our favourite recommendations of 7 - 10 cm (2.7 - 3.9 inches) mattress toppers.

What are the mattress topper sizes?

Of course, your mattress topper has to fit your mattress perfectly.

But you don't need a made-to-measure mattress topper to make that happen, since most toppers are available in all standard UK mattress sizes. πŸ‡¬πŸ‡§

  • Mattress topper single: 90 x 190 cm (3’ x 6’3”)
  • Small double mattress topper: 120 x 190 cm (4' x 6'3")
  • Mattress topper double: 135 x 190 cm (4’6” x 6’3”)
  • King size mattress topper: 150 x 200 cm (5’ x 6’6”)
  • Super-king mattress topper: 180 x 200 cm (6’ x 6’6”)

Some mattress toppers are also available in select European sizes.

If you're using a large mattress topper over two single mattresses, ensure that the topper covers both mattresses.

Simply measure the dimensions (length x width) and choose accordingly.

Caravan mattress toppers or those designed for travelling may come in smaller sizes to fit a compact space.

Of course, choosing the right mattress topper material is also vital, but this is so important that we consider it in more detail in the next section.

What mattress topper material should you choose?

Mattress toppers can be made from a variety of different materials.

You're likely to find everything from memory foam toppers to latex mattress toppers, microfibre down-alternative toppers, and natural choices like organic cotton or wool mattress toppers. 🌱

The material the topper is made from will affect the way it feels and how hot you sleep.

These are the most popular mattress topper materials:

Memory foam mattress toppers

Mattress toppers made of memory foam are very popular.

These offer excellent orthopaedic support, adapting perfectly to your body and creating that body-hugging sensation. πŸ€—

This contouring effect makes these the best mattress toppers for side sleepers.

The best memory foam mattress toppers also distribute pressure well and can noticeably relieve surface muscular tension.

memory foam mattress topper contouring

Memory foam also effectively isolates motion, making it a popular choice for couples as you won't feel your partner move.

Overall, these mattress toppers create a soft and warm feeling as memory foam retains more heat than other materials.

But you're also likely to find memory foam toppers infused with gel, graphite, copper, or other cooling materials to help regulate temperature better.

The Panda topper and Hypnia topper are two excellent memory foam options.

Cold foam mattress toppers

Cold foam toppers are firmer and more temperature-neutral than memory foam toppers since their open-cell pore structure enhances breathability.

They also offer good body support but don't offer as much pressure relief as memory foam does.

We're big fans of the Emma Flip mattress topper, which has one side of cold foam and one of memory foam.

Gel mattress toppers

Gel mattress toppers are also very popular.

Unlike memory foam, gel foam quickly bounces back to its original shape, making it particularly suitable for restless sleepers. πŸ•Ί

Gel foam also offers pressure-relieving properties and adapts well to the body, offering comfort and support.

Cooling gel mattress toppers are particularly great for people seeking a more temperature-neutral sleep.

Latex foam mattress toppers

Latex foam toppers are similar to memory foam toppers in that they conform to the body while remaining responsive.

Toppers made of latex foam are characterised by their high point elasticity, even pressure distribution, stability, and durability.

You're likely to experience good pressure relief without sinking in as deeply as you do with memory foam toppers.

Back and stomach sleepers will probably find latex toppers more comfortable than memory foam toppers. πŸ‘Œ

Latex foam is also much cooler than other types of foam, mostly because it's ventilated with small holes to promote airflow.

Latex toppers can be made from natural latex or synthetic latex. 🌱

Like wool mattress toppers, these natural options are often attached to mattresses as integrated pillow top mattress toppers.

In addition to the above-mentioned common mattress topper materials, you can also find mattress toppers made of various other materials.

  • Bamboo mattress toppers: These do not retain heat and have hypoallergenic properties.
  • Cotton mattress toppers: These are comfortable toppers that adapt well to temperature.
  • Water mattress toppers: These are recommended for back problems.
  • Air mattress toppers: These are also effective for back problems but less comfortable than water mattress toppers.
  • Wool, down, or feather mattress toppers: These are usually natural mattress toppers with good temperature regulation.

You'll also find hybrid mattress toppers, like the Simba Hybrid mattress topper, which combine two or more materials.

What's the best mattress topper to buy?

The best mattress topper for you will depend on your budget, preferred sleeping temperature, and whether or not you have any orthopaedic concerns.

Don't forget that a mattress topper is not a cheat for a new mattress - if your mattress is old, damaged, or sagging, you'll have to throw it out and get a new one.

Here's a reminder of the best mattress toppers UK:

Frequently asked questions

  • How do you attach a mattress topper?


    The last thing you want is your mattress topper moving around on your bed while you sleep - especially if you're a restless sleeper!

    Most quality mattress toppers have elastic bands that allow you to easily attach them to your mattress, keeping them firmly in place. πŸ₯³

    But some mattress toppers don't have this.

    We really wouldn't recommend buying a mattress topper that doesn't come with straps - it can be super uncomfortable.

    But, if your mattress topper doesn't come with straps and you don't want to buy a new one, we'd suggestΒ using a fitted sheet or mattress protector to help keep your topper in place.

  • How do you wash a mattress topper?


    If you're looking after your mattress, the last thing you want is a mattress topper that's stained and unhygienic.Β 

    Some foam mattress toppers turn yellow with age, but most mattress toppers (and mattress pads in general) turn yellow due to sweat stains, dead skin, and general household dirt.

    Some thinner or quilted mattress toppers are machine-washable, but most foam mattress toppers can't be popped into the machine. 🧺

    That's why we recommend chosing a mattress topper with a removable cover that'sΒ machine-washable at a high temperature.

    This will remove dirt, kill bacteria and dust mites, and help with allergies. 🀧

    Machine-washable mattress toppers

    If your foam topper is stained, you can remove individual stains with detergent, a damp cloth, and water.

    We'd also highly recommend that you invest in a waterproof mattress protector. πŸ’¦

    Mattress protectors will safeguard your mattress and mattress topper against dirt, stains, moisture, and bacteria.

    If you protect your mattress topper, it should last you 3 - 5 years.

  • Is a mattress topper the same as a mattress protector?


    No, the two are quite different.

    • A mattress topper is a thickΒ additional layer of padding placed on top of your mattress to give you more soft cushioning.Β 
    • A mattress protector is a thin layer of waterproof materialΒ covering your mattress and protecting it from spills, stains, and bacteria.

    Choosing between a topper and a protector will depend on your needs.

  • What's the difference between a mattress topper and a mattress pad?


    The terms "mattress pad" and "mattress topper" are often used interchangeably.

    Mattress toppers are mattress pads - but not all mattress pads are mattress toppers.

    In general, mattress padsΒ are layers of extra padding to provide more cushioning but with less support than mattress toppers.Β 

    Some mattress pads also act as moisture barriers and can be used by people struggling with incontinence.Β 

  • Can you put two mattress toppers on top of each other?


    You wouldn't be alone in thinking that you could get an even softer, more cushioning feel if you stack mattress toppers.

    But this actually has a negative effect.

    By stacking toppers, you may get more softness, but you'll lose support and stability.

    This can result in backaches and pains.

    If you feel that one mattress topper really isn't doing the trick, you may need to buy a new mattress.

  • Should you flip a mattress topper?


    This depends on the mattress topper.

    • Some mattress toppers, like the Tempur Topper 7, are dual-sided. This means you can flip the topper regularly like a traditionalΒ mattress. This can increase the topper's lifespan.
    • Others, like the Emma mattress topper, have firmer and softer sides.Β In this case, you can choose the most comfortable side.
    • And, again, other toppers are dual-layered with a right way up. The Simba topper, for instance, is designed to be used on one side only.

    Always read the instructions that come with your topper to figure out whether you should flip it or not.

  • Where can I find a mattress topper near me?


    Mattress toppers can be purchased from a range of retailers that don't necessarily specialise in bed products, making them accessible for those who aren't keen on shopping online.Β 

    You can check outΒ Dunelm mattress toppers, Argos mattress toppers,Β IKEA mattress toppers,Asda mattress toppers, B&M mattress toppers, The Range mattress toppers, Next mattress toppers, and Sainsbury's mattress toppers.

    However, buying from a reputable bed brand has its advantages since these toppers tend to be made from better-quality materials and often include sleep trials.

    Some good brands include:

    You can also find Amazon mattress toppers, which can be delivered within a day or two with Prime delivery for those looking for a quick buy.Β 

  • What is the best mattress topper to make a bed softer?


    Soft mattress toppers tend to be made of memory foam, wool, or hollowfibre.Β 

    Generally, the deeper the mattress topper, the more it will mould around the body, making them a better option for side sleepers.Β 

  • Can a baby use a mattress topper?


    You may be considering a cot bed mattress topper for your little one.

    However, we would not recommend using a cot mattress topper for your baby.Β 

    Mattress toppers are often soft and sinking, and an infant could roll into the material and struggle to roll back over.Β 

    Using a mattress topper, blankets, and pillows for a small baby could cause suffocation or SIDS [2].Β Β 

  • What should a good mattress topper cost?


    Β Mattress toppers are available at all price points.

    Cheaper mattress toppers, like IKEA mattress toppers, theΒ Eazzzy topper, orΒ some of the Amazon mattress toppers, will set you back an average ofΒ Β£100 for a double-size.

    In contrast, more luxurious toppers, like the Simba Hybrid mattress topper or the Tempur topper, will set you back a few hundred quid for the smallest size.

    But you'll also find may value-for-money toppers, like theΒ Panda memory foam topper.Β 

    A mattress topper sale or mattress topper discount code can also help you buy within your budget, and you're likely to find the best sales around peak periods like Black Friday and Boxing Day.

  • References

Nicky

Nicky

Editor & Certified Sleep Therapist

Nicky is an experienced writer and editor with numerous qualifications. As a certified sleep coach, her interests lie in understanding how sleep problems arise from hormonal and environmental issues, particularly as part of stress and anxiety management.

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