Are mattress toppers worth it? - These thick, removable material layers sit on top of the mattress and provide you with extra softness and support. If you’ve ever sunk into one, you’ll know what we’re talking about. They’re delicious!

Some people see them as a luxury. Others see them as a necessity. Let’s look at mattress toppers in a little more detail and answer the question of whether they’re worth it.

What types of mattress toppers can you buy?

Mattress toppers come in various materials, such as wool, fleece, egg crate, and memory foam, the latter being a popular form of mattress topper and the type we sell at Bedstar. 

Wool and fleece mattress toppers tend to be more expensive, and egg crate ones don’t offer many luxuries. These contrast with memory foam mattress toppers, which offer a luxurious comfort level and are also very affordable. 

Why buy a mattress topper?

Mattress toppers are all about comfort and support and can improve the feel of your current mattress. If your mattress isn’t giving you enough comfort or support, a mattress topper could be the answer for you to get a good night’s sleep again.

A good mattress topper can extend the life of your mattress but never consider it a substitute for a new mattress. If you invest in a mattress topper but still find yourself feeling sore the next day, it’s time to buy yourself a fresh mattress.

Mattress toppers also help you to keep the mattress itself clean. They serve as a barrier that prevents the mattress from becoming dirty. Don’t worry about the memory foam. Mattress toppers come in an elegant cover to keep the foam clean and minimise the impact of any spillages onto the topper.

Incidentally, you don’t have to rely on your mattress topper to keep your mattress clean. You can always cover the mattress with a mattress protector. These are inexpensive and will keep your mattress nice and fresh.

What’s the best thickness?

Mattress toppers come in different thicknesses. The thickness you choose will depend on your requirements.

• 3 centimetres (1.2 inches). Ideal if you prefer a firmer mattress
• 5 to 7 centimetres (2 to 3 inches). Provides extra cushioning and is better if the mattress is excessively firm or worn.
• More than 7 centimetres (more than 3 inches). Suitable for a larger person to avoid sinking too deeply into the memory foam.

Are mattress toppers machine washable?

Some memory foam mattress toppers are machine washable, and others are not. The foam can absorb the water, which can damage the ‘memory foam’ properties. You should check the mattress topper instructions for washing recommendations first, especially regarding temperature, use of bleach, and dry cleaning, before you put it into a washing machine.

If you don’t wish to risk washing your memory foam mattress topper by machine, you should vacuum it first and then sprinkle baking soda over it to soak up stains. You then vacuum the baking soda off the mattress topper.

The other way to clean a memory foam mattress topper is to spray it lightly with a detergent bottle mixed with water. Divide the mattress into four sections, clean each section individually, blot any stains, and then vacuum the mattress topper.

It’s possible to wash wool and fibre mattress toppers in a washing machine. If you decide to do this, do so at a professional launderette, which will have larger washing machines that can accommodate the mattress top. This is the case for memory foam mattress toppers, too.

How long do mattress toppers last?

Mattress toppers can last anything between 3 and 10 years, although 10 years is stretching your mattress topper. It would be better to replace the mattress topper before then. 

It all depends on the material, the quality, the weight of the mattress topper, and how often you use the mattress topper. The better care you take of your mattress topper, the longer you can make it last.

A good mattress topper will serve you well, on average, for 5 years or more before it starts to sag or loses any ‘memory’ type qualities.

Memory foam, latex, and wool mattress toppers tend to be the most durable. Fibre or feather ones are much less so, and you’ll soon find yourself replacing them.

The final verdict?

Mattress toppers are a worthwhile investment if you’re looking for extra comfort and support for a (more) refreshing sleep. They can even extend the life of your mattress. 

Just don’t fall into the trap of thinking they’re a substitute for a mattress itself. When you’re considering whether to buy a mattress topper or not, evaluate the condition of your mattress. If the mattress is past its best, then buy a new one for your own comfort and well-being. Don’t rough it out with the mattress and be uncomfortable for any longer than you have to.