Memory Foam Mattress Toppers

Last Updated May 17, 2023

Are you in the market for a memory foam mattress topper? If so, you're in luck! In this buyer's guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know before making your purchase.

We'll cover topics such as types of memory foam, pros and cons, and some of the important things to consider before buying a memory foam mattress topper. By the end of this post, you'll be able to make an informed decision about whether or not a memory foam topper is best for you.

natural and organic latex mattress topper

memory foam mattress toppers

What is a memory foam mattress topper?

A memory foam mattress topper is a thick piece of memory foam that you lay on top of your mattress. It's usually about two to four inches thick, and it's designed to improve the comfort of your mattress.

Memory foam is a unique material that contours your body and provides excellent support. It's also very good at absorbing impact, so it can help to reduce tossing and turning at night.

What are the different types of memory foam mattress toppers?

There are many different types of memory foam mattress toppers available on the market today. Some of the most common include traditional memory foam, gel memory foam, and plant-based memory foam. Each option has its own unique advantages and disadvantages.

1. Traditional memory foam mattress toppers

Traditional memory foam toppers are typically made from viscoelastic polyurethane material that molds to your body as you sleep, helping to support your spine and reduce stress on pressure points.

This material tends to be firmer than some other options, making it a good choice for people who like a firm mattress but still want some level of cushioning. However, traditional memory foam can also trap heat more easily than other materials and may not be suitable for those who run hot or live in warm climates.

2. Gel memory foam mattress toppers

Gel memory foam is another popular type of mattress topper, which typically incorporates a layer of gel bubbles or beads into the polyurethane base.

This addition helps to regulate temperature and wick away moisture more effectively than traditional versions, making it a good option for those who get too hot while they sleep or live in warm climates. However, it is often more expensive than other types of mattress toppers due to its additional features.

3. Plant-based memory foam mattress toppers

A plant-based memory foam mattress topper is different from other memory foam toppers. It uses plant-based ingredients instead of petroleum-based ingredients.

Petroleum-based memory foam usually contains chemicals like polyurethane and vinyl chloride, which can off-gas into the air and be harmful to your health.

Plant-based memory foam, on the other hand, is made with ingredients like castor oil and soybean oil, which are renewable resources and much safer for both you and the environment.

In addition, plant-based memory foam is usually more resistant to dust mites and mold, making it a good choice for people with allergies.

What are the pros of a memory foam mattress topper?

A memory foam mattress topper can offer a number of benefits.

First, it can help provide pressure relief by improving blood circulation in your body as you sleep by evenly distributing your weight. This can lead to a better night's sleep and less stiffness and pain when you wake up.

Additionally, a memory foam mattress topper can help to reduce the amount of motion transfer between you and your sleeping partner. This means that you're less likely to be disturbed by their movements during the night.

Finally, a memory foam mattress topper can extend the life of your mattress by providing an extra layer of support and cushioning.

All of these factors make memory foam mattress toppers an appealing option for many people.

What are the cons of a memory foam mattress topper?

A memory foam mattress topper can offer many benefits, but there are also some potential drawbacks to consider.

One of the main concerns is that memory foam is known for trapping body heat, which can lead to a sweaty and uncomfortable night's sleep. So, it can be said that they are not a pretty good option for hot sleepers.

Additionally, a memory foam mattress topper is not a natural material, and this may be a concern for some people who prefer more natural products. Also, memory foam can be quite firm, which may not be ideal for people with back or joint pain.

Some people also find that most memory foam toppers have a strong smell when first unpacked, although this typically fades over time.

Furthermore, the foam often takes time to conform to the contours of the body and may feel somewhat stiff initially.

How to choose the best memory foam mattress topper?

When shopping for a memory foam mattress topper, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Thickness

First, you will want to consider the thickness of the mattress topper. Generally speaking, the thicker mattress toppers provide more cushioning and support. They can significantly improve the overall feel of your mattress. This can be particularly important if you are looking for relief from pain or stiffness in your back or joints.

Firmness

The firmness level you choose will depend on your personal preferences and needs. If you are looking for a memory foam mattress topper that will provide extra support for your back, neck, and shoulders, then you may want to choose a firmer option. And, if you are looking for the one that will provide more cushioning and comfort, then you may want to choose a soft mattress topper.

However, for most people, a medium-firm memory foam topper is the best option as it provides a balance of comfort and support.

Sleeping position

Another important factor to consider is your sleeping position. Side sleepers, for example, need a softer mattress topper in order to reduce pressure on the hips and shoulders. Back sleepers and stomach sleepers, on the other hand, need a firmer mattress topper that will prevent them from sinking too deeply into the mattress.

latex mattress

Ultimately, the best way to determine the right mattress topper for you is to lie down on it in your preferred sleeping position and see how it feels. With a little trial and error, you should be able to find a memory foam mattress topper that provides the perfect amount of support and comfort, regardless of your sleeping position.

Construction

Also, make sure about whether or not you prefer an open- or closed-cell construction. In general, open-cell toppers tend to be softer, while closed-cell mattresses are thicker and firmer, so choosing one that suits your individual sleeping style is important.

Density

You will also want to think about the density of the foam material, which is often measured in pounds per cubic foot (PCF). A high-density memory foam material may provide better support and durability, but it may also be more expensive.

Reviews

It's also a good idea to read reviews from other buyers in order to see how well the mattress performs over time.

Quality material

Finally, be sure to look for a mattress topper that is made from high-quality memory foam, as this type of foam provides optimal contouring and comfort. With these considerations in mind, you should be well on your way to finding the perfect memory foam mattress topper for your needs!

What is the best alternative to a memory foam mattress topper?

There is no doubt that memory foam mattress toppers are a popular choice for those looking to improve their sleep quality. The soft, cushiony texture of these toppers conforms to the body, helping you get into just the right position for a peaceful and restorative night's sleep.

However, some people may find that memory foam mattress toppers are not the best option due to certain issues related to heat retention, off-gassing, or other concerns. In this case, a latex mattress topper may be a better alternative. Natural latex foam has pinholes in them that allow air to circulate freely. This airflow helps to regulate body temperature, keeping you cool and comfortable all night long. In fact, they are known as the best cooling mattress topper.

Unlike memory foam materials, which can start to feel stiff and uncomfortable over time, latex provides a responsive and adaptive sleeping surface that molds itself precisely to your body shape and contours.

In addition, latex mattresses are made from natural materials like rubber trees, so they don't contain the toxic chemicals or off-gassing that you might find in traditional memory foam products.

Overall, then, if you are looking for an alternative to a traditional memory foam mattress topper, a latex version may be the best choice for you.

FAQs About Memory foam mattress topper

1. What’s the best thickness of a memory foam mattress topper?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to the best thickness of a memory foam mattress topper. Some people may prefer a thicker topper in order to provide extra cushioning or support, while others might prefer a thinner version in order to minimize the depth of their bed.

Thinner memory foam toppers can provide less support but also tend to be more affordable and easier to move around. On the other hand, thicker memory foam toppers offer more cushioning and can be especially beneficial for anyone dealing with chronic aches and pains or other medical issues.

In general, however, it is usually recommended that you look for a memory foam mattress topper with at least two inches or three inches of thickness, as this tends to strike the optimal balance between comfort and stability.

2. Is memory foam the best mattress topper for your back?

There is some debate among health experts about whether memory foam beds are good for your back.

One common concern with these kinds of mattresses is that they put too much weight and pressure on the spine, causing strain over time. However, others argue that dense memory foam toppers actually provide excellent support and comfort, helping to keep the spine aligned while simultaneously reducing pressure.

So it really depends on your individual needs and preferences as to whether you think a memory foam mattress is a good option for your back. Some people may find them too firm or unsupportive, while others may find them incredibly comfortable and beneficial for their back issues.

Ultimately, the most important thing is to pay attention to how your body feels when using this kind of mattress, listening to both your body's needs and your own personal preferences. And if in doubt about what type of mattress is best for you, always consult a doctor or other health professional who can offer expert advice on avoiding back pain and maintaining healthy posture.

3. Can you put a memory foam topper on any mattress?

The answer is yes and no. You can technically put a memory foam topper on any mattress, but whether or not it will be comfortable or provide the desired benefits is another story.

If you have a very firm mattress, adding a memory foam topper may make it more comfortable. However, if your mattress is already soft, adding a memory foam topper may make it too soft and result in less support and an increased risk of sagging over time.

In addition, memory foam toppers are designed to contour to your body, so if your mattress is too firm, the topper may not be able to conform properly and provide the full range of benefits. As a result, it's important to consider the firmness of your mattress before purchasing a memory foam topper.

4. Do memory foam toppers sag?

The truth is that memory foam will almost certainly sag eventually – but this is true of any type of mattress topper material.

That said, there are steps you can take to help prevent sagging in your memory foam topper. For example, using a mattress protector can help to keep the surface of the bed clean and crisp, which in turn helps reduce the amount of pressure that gets placed on the topper itself.

5. Is gel memory foam toxic?

The gel beads used in this type of foam can release chemicals that may be harmful to the respiratory system. In addition, some gel memory foam is made with flame-retardant chemicals that have been linked to cancer. While more research is needed to confirm the safety of gel memory foam, it is important to be aware of the potential risks before making a purchase.

6. How do you clean a memory foam mattress topper?

Most memory foam mattress toppers can be spot-cleaned using a mild detergent and warm However, if your topper is particularly dirty, you may need to give it a more thorough cleaning.

To do this, first, remove the topper from your bed and vacuum it with the upholstery attachment to remove any dirt or debris. Next, mix a solution of mild detergent and warm water and dampen a clean sponge or cloth in the mixture. Gently scrub the surface of the topper, being careful not to soak it. Once you've finished scrubbing, rinse the topper with clean water and allow it to air dry completely before putting it back on your bed.

Please note that memory foam mattress toppers aren't machine washable.

With proper care, your memory foam mattress topper should stay clean and comfortable for years to come.

7. How do you store memory foam mattress toppers?

There are a few different approaches to storing memory foam mattress toppers. Many people like to simply fold their topper up and store it in a closet or under the bed, which works well for some types of toppers.

However, if you have a thicker, denser memory foam mattress topper, it's best to roll it up instead of folding it. This allows you to keep your topper compressed for easier storage without causing any damage or deformities.

Ideally, you should store your memory foam mattress topper in a cool, dry place that is away from direct sunlight. Keeping your mattress topper sealed in an airtight container can also help prevent moisture from getting into your topper and causing mold or mildew growth over time.

8. How long does a memory foam mattress topper last?

In general, you can expect a memory foam mattress topper to last between 3 and 5 years.

Compared to other natural materials, like latex, memory foam tends to wear out pretty quickly. This often has more to do with the quality of the foam than anything else. Anyways, it's important to choose a high-quality mattress if you want your topper to last longer.

9. Can you dispose of a memory foam mattress topper?

If you have an old or worn-out memory foam mattress topper that needs to be thrown out, you can easily do so by recycling it at your local waste facility. Many communities now offer special recycling programs for old mattresses and various other household items, including memory foam mattress toppers.

natural and organic pillows

Plus, many retailers and manufacturers will often accept used mattress toppers directly from customers and recycle them in an environmentally friendly way. So if you have an old memory foam mattress topper that needs to be tossed out, simply give it a second thought – there are plenty of easy ways to get rid of it!

10. Do memory foam mattress toppers sleep hot?

The short answer to this question is: yes, it can.

Memory foam mattress toppers are designed to be comfortable and supportive, but they are also known for being slightly warmer than other types of mattress toppers. This is partly due to the way that the material compresses and expands under pressure, which creates a tendency toward heat retention.

Related blog posts:

1. The Best Mattress In A Box - 2023 Mattress Shopping guide By Turmerry

mattress in a box

2. A Detailed Guide On Full Vs. Queen: Which One Should You Sleep On?

full vs. queen size mattresses

3. Awesome Sleep Apps That Will Help Improve Sleep Quality

awesome sleep apps that will help improve your sleep quality

4. How Are Latex Mattresses Made

how are latex mattresses made

5. Morning Sunlight Matters For Your Night Sleep

morning sunlight matters for your night sleep

In this post, we’ve highlighted both the good and bad sides of memory foam mattress toppers, and we think it’s safe to say that latex is still the best option for a healthy night’s sleep. If you disagree or want more information on any of the topics covered in this post, please leave us a comment below – we love hearing from our readers!

Disclaimer: What is said in this article has been referenced from multiple sources and is intended only for educational and informational purposes. Please note that no content in this article is a substitute for professional advice from a qualified doctor or healthcare provider. Always consult an experienced doctor with any concerns you may have regarding a health condition or treatment, and never disregard any medical suggestions or delay in seeking treatment because of something you read here.

BACK TO TOP
x