- 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 |
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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 |
- 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 40β.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 |
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30-night trial period |
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10-year guarantee |
Reasons to avoid
It might be too soft for those in need of a firmer topper |
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It may initially have a chemical smell |
- 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 |
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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 |
- 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 |
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Extra deep and soft for contouring support, particulary for side sleepers |
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OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100 certification |
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30-night sleep trial |
Reasons to avoid
There are no straps to prevent it from sliding |
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Very thick, so not easy to store if not in use |
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 π
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.
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. π
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. π₯³
Can a mattress topper make a firm mattress softer?
Yes - this is the number one reason people buy mattress toppers. π₯
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. π
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. βοΈ
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. π©ββ€οΈβπ¨
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. π
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. π³
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. π§±
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. π©
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. π΅οΈββοΈ
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. π
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.
- Stomach sleepers need an extra firm mattress (generally we'd advise against toppers for front sleepers)
- Back sleepers need a medium-firm mattress topper
- Side sleepers need a soft mattress topper
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. π¬π§
- Mattress topper single: 90 x 190 cm (3β x 6β3β)
- Small double mattress topper: 120 x 190 cm (4' x 6'3")
- Mattress topper double: 135 x 190 cm (4β6β x 6β3β)
- King size mattress topper: 150 x 200 cm (5β x 6β6β)
- Super-king mattress topper: 180 x 200 cm (6β x 6β6β)
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. π±
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. π€
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 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. πΊ
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. π
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. π±
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.
Alternatively, message us directly via the Contact Us page.