Sleep is a necessity you deserve. But what if your mattress is what’s preventing you from getting the sleep you deserve? If you’re willing to invest more, you should replace your mattress topper. However, if it’s not possible on your end, a mattress topper can be an alternative option.
Would it be worth it? A mattress topper is inexpensive and simple. It also provides a wide range of benefits, especially with sleep. In this blog, we’ll explore mattress toppers and what to consider before purchasing one.
What Is a Mattress Topper?
When you want to sleep as if you’re in a cloud, a mattress topper is a great option. A mattress topper is added on top of your mattress. This serves as an extra layer to make you sleep comfortably by providing cushion and support to your body.
Typically, a mattress topper ranges between 2 and 10 cm thick. This thickness sets it apart from a mattress pad or protector. This will allow you to adjust the mattress’s firmness or softness to suit your preference.
Positive Effect of Mattress Topper on Sleep
Mattress toppers can do much more to improve your sleep, such as:
Relieve Pressure Points
The quality of your mattress can lessen over time, especially if you’re always using it. They may lose their firmness, support, and shape. Adding a mattress topper can help prevent these issues if you avoid sleeping on a sagging, uneven, or hard surface.
Your mattress can become firmer or softer with a topper. The level of firmness or softness matters if you have injuries or arthritis. For example, a mattress topper can help reduce your pain by distributing the pressure your body applies to the bed instead of concentrating it on painful spots. This is why it helps relieve pressure on joints, including the hips, knees, and shoulders.
Improve Spinal Positioning
Your spine may curve incorrectly if your mattress is too soft or sagging. A good, firm mattress topper can prevent this! A mattress topper provides lumbar support and reduces morning back stiffness. It can also promote proper spinal alignment, which is essential for preventing neck and back problems.
Different firmness levels of mattress toppers suit different sleeping positions:
Soft Topper
If you sleep on your side, this is the best choice. Side sleeping often causes pressure on your hips and shoulders, which can lead to spinal misalignment and neck or lower back pain.
Medium-Firm Topper
If you sleep on your back, this is the ideal option. It provides even weight distribution to support your spine natural curve.
Firm Topper
If you sleep on your stomach, this is the best choice. Sleeping on your stomach can strain your neck and lower back if your hips sag too much.
Temperature Control
Controlling temperature is needed if you want to improve your sleep quality. A mattress topper made of temperature-regulating materials works best. This is especially important if you sleep in a warm environment or live in a hot climate.
Memory foam toppers tend to retain heat, but newer options like gel-infused memory foam dissipate heat and keep you cool. You might also consider latex or wool toppers due to their breathability, which helps manage body temperature overnight.
Choosing natural fibers or bamboo can enhance airflow and prevent overheating, making sleep more comfortable. Using the right materials helps keep you cool, reduces pain, and minimizes night sweats, leading to more restful sleep.
Lessen the Motion Effect
If you move frequently or share a bed with someone, your movements can disrupt your sleep. This is true for mattresses that often distribute motion across the surface. If you have a spring or hybrid bed, you would know. That’s where a mattress topper can help!
A memory foam topper absorbs movement and reduces disturbances. Instead of causing bounce or transfer of motion across the bed, the foam dampens it, meaning less movement reaches you.
Enhance the Quality of Your Sleep
A mattress topper can improve your overall sleep quality by helping you sleep longer. At the same time, you will wake up feeling rested! One way it does this is by making your bed more comfortable because your brain links your bed with relaxation. Hence, it makes it easier for you to fall asleep.
Additionally, a mattress topper can indirectly help reduce snoring and symptoms of sleep apnea. A medium-firm topper prevents your head and neck from sinking too deeply, aligning your throat and airways to keep them open during sleep.
Negative Effects of Mattress Topper on Sleep
While mattress toppers offer benefits, they may also have a few disadvantages:
Too Soft or Too Firm Mattress Toppers
Choosing the wrong firmness for mattress toppers can increase discomfort and negatively impact your sleep. For example, a too-soft mattress topper may lack the support needed for proper spinal alignment. This can lead to stiffness and pain, especially if you sleep on your back or stomach.
Conversely, a too-firm mattress can create pressure points. This pressure, particularly on the shoulders and hips, can cause discomfort. If you sleep on your side, it’s important to add a topper as cushioning to allow you to sink in the right amount.
Heat Retention
It’s well known that some toppers are made of materials that trap heat, especially memory foam. These materials might feel uncomfortable in warmer climates or to hot sleepers. Sometimes, even gel-infused or ventilated foam toppers do not provide enough cooling. An alternative for temperature regulation is to choose breathable materials like bamboo or latex.
Odour or Off-Gassing
When you buy a new mattress topper, you might notice a chemical smell upon unpacking. This smell is caused by VOCs (volatile organic compounds) released by the foam. While usually harmless, it can cause headaches or irritation if you’re sensitive. To reduce the smell, it’s a good idea to let your topper air out in a well-ventilated space for 24 to 72 hours.
How to Choose the Best Mattress Topper?
Several factors should guide your choice of the best mattress topper. Keep these tips in mind to find the right one:
Firmness and Thickness
The firmness and thickness of mattress toppers vary widely. Each of these mattress toppers offers different levels of support and comfort. There are many options depending on your needs and preferences.
Firmness depends on your taste and your mattress’s condition. You can choose soft toppers, which are ideal for very hard mattresses, or firm toppers, which add support to sagging mattresses. Medium-firm toppers, on the other hand, offer a balance of comfort and support.
Thicker toppers, usually 3-4 inches, provide more cushioning and pressure relief. Thinner ones, around 1-2 inches, add subtle support.
Sleeping Position
Your preferred sleeping position plays a key role in choosing a topper. For side sleepers, a thicker topper (3-4 inches) is best for support and relieving pressure.
Back sleepers should opt for medium-firm toppers to get enough support and help keep the spine aligned. In contrast, stomach sleepers need a thinner topper (1-2 inches) to prevent their hips from sinking too much and causing lower back pain.
Breathability
Breathability is essential for a cooler, more comfortable sleep, especially if you tend to get warm at night. When selecting a topper, consider how well it manages heat. Avoid memory foam if heat retention is a concern, as it can trap heat and limit airflow.
Material
Different materials serve different purposes. Latex toppers are popular for their springy, buoyant feel. They give the sensation of floating on your bed, but tend to be more expensive due to their breathability and durability.
Memory foam toppers offer excellent support and a hugging feel. However, they can trap heat, making them less suitable for warm environments. Feathers and down toppers provide a plush, cloud-like feel. They offer minimal support and tend to flatten over time, which is not ideal if you move a lot during sleep.
Health Conditions
If you have specific health issues, a mattress topper might help. For example, toppers can support spinal alignment and pressure relief. Just choose the right thickness and firmness based on your needs.
There are also breathable, hypoallergenic options like latex, bamboo, and wool. Check if the topper indicates it has anti-allergy properties.
Quality and Certifications
Investing in a high-quality topper ensures better durability and performance.
Choose reputable brands like us, which produce top-tier products. Look for certifications such as OEKO-TEX Standard 100, GOLS, or GOTS for organic materials.
Practical Factors
Aside from comfort and materials, consider practical aspects that enhance your sleep experience. Make sure your topper fits your mattress snugly. Attachments like straps or anchors can prevent shifting overnight.
Also, check if the topper is machine washable and easy to remove for cleaning. Ultimately, your budget will also influence your choice. Select a topper that offers the best value within your price range.
FAQs
1. Do mattress toppers help improve sleep quality?
Absolutely! If you’re looking to improve your sleep experience, adding a mattress topper can make a difference. Not only do they provide additional support to your current mattress, but they can also give you a new level of comfort. You will also get cushioning that will relieve pressure, especially if you have injuries or pains.
2. How long do mattress toppers last?
The life spans of your mattress toppers vary depending on the quality, material, and usability. On average, a mattress topper would last between 3 to 5 years.
3. Should I buy a new mattress or get a topper?
This is a common dilemma for buyers. Here’s what you need to consider:
Buy a Mattress Topper if:
- If your current mattress is still in good condition, but is slightly too firm or too soft.
- If you want an extra layer of support.
- If you want a temporary solution.
Buy a Mattress if:
- If your current mattress is old.
- If there are noticeable lumps, sagging, and uneven surfaces.
- If you have chronic pain and need a change in your sleeping schedule.
4. What mattress topper is best for back pain?
If you're a back sleeper and often experience back pain, it's a good idea to go for a thicker topper, ideally between 3 to 4 inches. This can provide the extra support your back needs. On the other hand, if you sleep on your stomach, you might want to stick with a thinner topper, around 2 to 3 inches, to prevent your hips from sinking too far into the mattress.
Conclusion
Choosing the best mattress topper that will help with your sleeping experience requires extensive consideration. You should consider factors such as firmness, material, your sleeping position, and any specific health concerns. This would help give you not only the best sleeping experience, but comfort and support too.
If you want exactly that, we have a wide range of mattress toppers you should check out!