Best Orthopaedic Mattress Toppers

Best Orthopaedic Mattress Toppers UK (2025)

Last updated: 28.11.2024 Reading time: 4 Min.

Orthopaedic mattress toppers offer extra back support for a better night’s sleep.

While they work well for some, they may not suit everyone.

With so many options on the market, it’s tricky to know which ones are truly orthopaedic and which simply add comfort.

Here’s what you need to know. 👇

couple sat on mattress topper

Our best orthopaedic mattress topper recommendations

Eco-Friendly

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-foam™), specifically designed with open-cell cooling technology and heat-sensitive capsules that keep you cooler than traditional memory foam. 

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℃. 

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

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

Sleep Hero Favourite

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 (2.5 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

CertiPUR-US certified 

Risk-free 200-night trial

10-year guarantee

Reasons to avoid

Not as body-hugging as memory foam toppers

Quite expensive 

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 a deep layer of comfort to your current mattress. 

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

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, 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

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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 cm (2.3 inches)
  • Machine-washable cover

Tell me more about the Emma Flip Mattress Topper

The Emma Flip Mattress 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

Machine-washable cover

100-night sleep trial 

10-year guarantee

Reasons to avoid

No straps to fix the topper to the mattress

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What are the benefits of an orthopaedic mattress topper?

Orthopaedic mattress toppers are designed to ease joint and muscle pains while improving your overall sleep setup.

But, they definitey aren't cure-alls for aches in general, since the pain you're experiencing may also stem from factors like stress, spinal curvatures, or other muscle issues [2].

So let's take a look at the benefits of orthopaedic mattress toppers. 👇

Reduced aches and pains

Most orthopaedic mattress toppers are made from memory foam, a material known for relieving pressure points.

Memory foam softens with body heat, which then helps it mould to your shape and distribute weight (and pressure) more evenly.

This prevents excess pressure [3] on areas like the shoulders, hips, and heels, minimising pain and pressure sores.

A pure memory foam topper, like the Hypnia Ultimate, offers a softer, body-hugging feel, while a hybrid topper, like the Simba topper, provides firmer support.

Both are excellent for reducing back pain.

Better sleep quality

Orthopaedic mattress toppers improve sleep quality by correcting your mattress firmness for proper spinal alignment.

Poor sleep posture [4], like when your mattress is too soft or too firm, can disrupt the sleep cycle and lead to symptoms like neck pain, stiffness, and spinal issues.

An orthopaedic memory foam topper can change the firmness of your mattress so your spine remains neutral when you sleep.

This reduces strain on your back, preventing aches that disrupt sleep.

Enhanced comfort

Comfort is key to good sleep, and an orthopaedic topper adds extra cushioning to improve an uncomfortable mattress.

Who is an orthopaedic mattress topper suitable for?

Orthopaedic mattress toppers are versatile and can help many people, including:

Those with back, neck or shoulder pain

An orthopaedic mattress topper can help you get a better night's sleep if you suffer from back, neck, or shoulder pain.

In fact, these are among the best mattress toppers for back pain.

Side sleepers

Many orthopaedic toppers are on the softer side and better suited to side sleepers.

A softer topper provides more sinkage for your hips and shoulders, helping to keep your spine aligned.

The Panda topper is on the softer side and is well-suited to side sleepers with joint, hip and back pain.

Back sleepers

Firmer orthopaedic mattress toppers often provide targeted pressure-relieving support.

A firmer mattress topper is better suited to back sleepers as it keeps your spine aligned with your neck throughout the night.

If you’re a back sleeper and your mattress is too soft, we recommend adding the Simba mattress topper to make it more comfortable.

But it's worth keeping in mind that toppers can't significantly firm up your mattress.

Those who easily feel cold at night

Most orthopaedic mattress toppers contain memory foam.

Memory foam retains heat, making your sleeping surface feel warmer than a traditional mattress. 🔥

If you run cold or live in a very cold environment, a memory foam orthopaedic topper, like the Hypnia Ultimate, could support your spine and keep you warm.

Who is an orthopaedic mattress topper not suitable for?

Even though orthopaedic toppers are great, they're definitely not for everyone.

We'd classify them as less suitable to the following:

Front sleepers

Stomach sleepers need a firm and stable mattress to keep their spine aligned.

We recommend that front sleepers avoid mattress toppers altogether, as you will likely experience some sinkage even with a firm topper.

Instead, you should invest in a high-quality firm mattress that supports your body throughout the night.

The Origin Hybrid and Panda Bamboo Mattress Pro are excellent options.

Those with an old sagging mattress

An orthopaedic mattress topper can only do so much, and they're not a magic solution for an old, sagging mattress that needs to be replaced.

If it's time to dispose of your old mattress, our guide on the best mattresses in the UK can help you choose a new one.

Those on a budget

High-quality orthopaedic mattress toppers are more expensive than standard options, with prices ranging from £100 to £1000, depending on the materials and technology used. 💰

If you need effective pressure relief, investing in a premium orthopaedic topper is recommended for the best results.

Is an orthopaedic mattress topper worth it?

An orthopaedic mattress topper can make a big difference for back pain, helping you enjoy a more restful night’s sleep.

Often made from memory foam or a foam and pocket spring blend, these toppers are known for their excellent pressure-relieving properties.

For the best results, we recommend investing in a premium orthopaedic topper designed to ease aches and pains effectively.

Reminder of the best orthopaedic mattress toppers UK:

Frequently asked questions

  • Can you wash an orthopaedic mattress topper?


    Most premium orthopaedic / orthopedic mattress toppers have removable and machine-washable covers. 

    Sometimes, though, it can be quite difficult to get the cover back on the topper after you have washed it, so we don’t recommend washing it all the time.

    Instead, we'd recommend using a mattress protector as these are much easier to remove and wash. 

  • What sizes are orthopaedic mattress toppers available in?


    Orthopaedic mattress toppers come in most standard UK sizes:

    • Orthopaedic mattress toppper single: 90 x 190 cm (3’0” x 6’3”)
    • Orthopaedic mattress toppper small double: 120 x 190 cm (4’0” x 6’3”)
    • Orthopaedic mattress toppper double: 135 x 190 cm (4’6” x 6’3”)
    • Orthopaedic mattress toppper king-size: 150 x 200 cm (5’0” x 6’6”)
    • Orthopaedic mattress toppper super king-size: 180 x 200 cm (6’0” x 6’6”)

    Some toppers will also be available in EU sizes.

  • What does orthopaedic mean?


    Orthopaedic mattresses and toppers are designed to support the body and alleviate back and neck issues.

    While many are labelled orthopaedic due to their firmness, true orthopaedic products [5] are based on scientific research to ensure proper spinal alignment.

    To distinguish genuine orthopaedic items from merely firm ones, look for medical endorsements or health certifications.

    True orthopaedic designs often include targeted support zones or ergonomic features, which are not just about firmness.

  • Should I buy an orthopaedic mattress instead?


    Orthopaedic mattresses are designed to support the contours of the body and provide relief to pressure points, resulting in a comfortable and restful sleep. 

    While an orthopedic mattress topper aims to provide added comfort and support, a new mattress typically offers a more comprehensive solution. 

    This is due to its greater thickness, intricate design, and advanced technology built directly into the core structure of the best mattresses. 

    In contrast, a topper merely adds an additional layer to your existing mattress. 

    Besides the Simba, Emma, Tempur, and Panda toppers, the following products are also popular:

    • Slumberdown Orthopaedic Mattress Topper (also known as the Super Support Mattress Topper)
    • Soft Feel 7500 Memory Foam Orthopaedic Mattress Topper
    • Soft Feel 2500 Memory Foam Orthopaedic Mattress Topper

    If you're seeking a complete solution, investing in an orthopaedic mattress might be more beneficial.

  • What's the difference between memory foam and orthopaedic mattress toppers?


    Many orthopaedic mattress toppers are indeed made from memory foam due to its contouring and pressure-relieving properties

    The primary distinction between an orthopaedic memory foam topper and a traditional memory foam topper lies in the design intent

    • Orthopaedic toppers are specifically designed to provide optimal support to the body, addressing pressure points and promoting spinal alignment. 
    • In contrast, traditional memory foam toppers mainly focus on comfort by conforming to the body's shape. 

    Both offer benefits, but the orthopaedic version targets individuals seeking relief from discomfort or pain.

  • Is it good to sleep on an orthopaedic mattress topper?


    Sleeping on an orthopaedic comfort mattress topper can benefit many individuals, especially those experiencing discomfort, pain, or inadequate support from their current mattress. 

    The design emphasises proper spinal alignment and pressure relief, which can lead to improved sleep quality. 

    However, individual preferences and needs vary, and what works best for one person might not be suitable for another. 

    When you’re looking to find the right mattress topper, it's a good idea to test one out or ensure a return policy to determine if it fits your comfort needs.

  • References

George arkley image

George Arkley

Content Writer

I’m always the first person to try the latest sleep hack - whether it’s drinking coffee or counting sheep. Now, I get to write about the latest sleep gadgets, mattresses and much more in a bid to help you find the perfect night’s sleep.

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