The Best Mattress Toppers of 2025, According to Testing
Add a layer of comfort and support to your bed.
Tested by Amanda ConstantineHome & Apparel Reviews Analyst
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You don't necessarily need to buy a brand new mattress if you're looking to improve your sleep quality. Instead, consider adding a mattress topper to upgrade your bed. Toppers can make your bed feel either firmer or softer and sometimes even cooler, helping you customize the feel of your mattress. They're also ideal for temporary living situations (like a college dorm or a care facility) where you don't get to choose your mattress.
To find the best options, our bedding experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab tested 47 different mattress toppers, including ones made with memory foam, down, down alternative and latex materials. We evaluated each topper's materials and specifications before GH analysts and at-home sleep testers tried them out first-hand to offer feedback on comfort, support, pressure relief, temperature regulation and more.
Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Adapt Topper
Pros
- Excellent pressure relief and motion isolation
- Straps help secure it on the bed
- Outer cover is machine washable
Cons
- Some testers noted topper shifting, despite straps
Height: 3 in. | Fill material: Memory foam | Available sizes: Twin, Twin Long, Full, Queen, King, California King
Who it's best for: This memory foam topper is ideal for beds that may be starting to sag, innerspring mattresses that have too much bounce or couples who want to reduce the feel of motion transfer. It's also suitable for back-pain sufferers and side sleepers because it offers pressure relief and conforms to the shape of your body.
Key takeaways: Using the same popular material as the Tempur-Pedic mattresses that cost thousands of dollars, this luxury topper can totally change the feel of your bed by adding a supportive surface to increase comfort and pressure relief. It's three inches tall and has a plush feel that adapts to your body shape rather than instantly sinking in. It also offers superior motion isolation, meaning you're less likely to feel your sleeping partner toss and turn throughout the night.
Besides the contouring foam, we love that it has a removable and machine-washable outer cover so you can keep it clean, straps that help it easily attach to the bed and moisture-wicking material to prevent overheating. And if you're a hot sleeper, you can upgrade (for an added fee) to a performance cover that feels cool to the touch.
What testers say: Users confirmed it instantly improved the feel of their mattress. One tester shared her experience getting in bed, "I wanted to fall into a big fluffy cloud, and that is exactly what this topper did." Another tester noted, "It softened the firmness of our mattress, which almost immediately alleviated my hip and lower back pain." The same tester was impressed by the temperature-regulating abilities of the cooling cover and said sleeping on this topper was "the first in a LONG TIME that I did not overheat at night!"
Testers said the straps made it easier to get the topper onto the mattress, though a couple said that the topper still shifted around at times. And while this specific model is a newer release from the brand (which includes the straps), testers have shared that other Tempur-Pedic toppers keep their shape after years of use.
RELATED: Tempur-Pedic Mattress Review
LUCID Down Alternative and Gel Memory Foam Mattress Topper
Pros
- Two layers combine foam and pillow top
- Popular on Amazon with Prime shipping
- Fitted panels for a secure fit
Cons
- A tester reported that it sleeps warm
Height: 4 in. | Fill material: Gel-infused memory foam, synthetic down alternative | Available sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
Who it's best for: Anyone on a budget that wants to improve the feel of their bed without spending several hundred dollars. It's also a good choice if you aren't sure whether to choose a pillow top or memory foam topper since it contains both materials.
Key takeaways: This hybrid mattress topper combines pressure-relieving support and pillow top comfort by using both foam and fiberfill. Even better: It costs significantly less than other top-tested options and is available on Amazon with the convenience of Prime shipping. The bottom layer is gel-infused memory foam, while the top layer includes pockets of down alternative for plush padding. It goes onto your bed like a fitted sheet to help everything stay in place.
It's an impressive 4 inches high, made up of equal parts foam and pillow top. Though it's sold as an individual topper, it's actually two separate pieces that you can layer together or use separately depending on your sleep preferences. The top layer that holds everything together is machine washable and dryer safe for easy cleaning.
What testers say: We surveyed 30 Lucid bed owners during our extensive mattress evaluations and users gave the materials high scores for comfort and value. Plus, this topper in particular has over 4,700 reviews on Amazon with an average 4.3-star rating.
When we had testers try it out on their own beds, the topper earned top marks for its comfortable feel and for staying in place without shifting. One tester who uses the topper described her bed as "much plusher, more comfortable" with this topper on it.
Another tester shared, "This mattress topper greatly improved the feel of the bed. It provides added softness and support that was lacking without it." She noted that it was easy to set up and it stayed put, but it felt warm at times, despite the gel infusion in the foam.
Pros
- Fitted sides fit deep mattresses
- Affordable option
- Adds pillow top softness
Cons
- Not as substantial; won't drastically change the feel of a bed
Height: Not listed | Fill material: Polyester | Available sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Full XL, Queen, Short Queen, King, California King, RV King
Who it's best for: Anyone who needs just a simple padded topper to upgrade their bed — especially those who don't want to spend a lot or drastically change the feel of their mattress.
Key takeaways: For a subtle layer that's more affordable and discreet than other toppers, this pillow top is more like a mattress pad, yet it still adds softness and comfort. It's filled with polyester microfiber (i.e. down alternative) in a quilted construction to keep it evenly spread out, rather than clumping. The low cost makes it perfect for temporary living situations (like summer camp or college dorms), and it's more compact than thick foam toppers, so you can easily pack it up and bring it with you.
This one also stands out for its stretchy sides that tuck under the mattress just like a fitted sheet. It's generously sized to fit tall beds up to 21 inches high. Plus, it's fully machine washable and dryer safe, according to the brand.
What testers say: One GH staffer who bought two of these toppers for her kids said they both found it to be comfortable, while she appreciated the low cost. "It's now on one kid's bed at home and the other kid's bed at college," she noted.
Plus, it has more than 39,000 reviews on Amazon with an average 4.5-star rating. Online reviewers said it enhanced the feel of their beds and some even noted that it improved their sleep quality. One commented, "It stays put, it doesn't bunch, it doesn't overheat and [it] stays comfortably cool."
RELATED: The Best Mattresses on Amazon
ViscoSoft Select High Density Memory Foam Mattress Topper
Pros
- Perforated foam for more airflow
- Three height choices
- Secure straps and anti-slip bottom
Cons
- Testers noticed a foam odor when new
Height: 2, 3 or 4 in. | Fill material: Memory foam | Available sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, Short Queen, King, California King
Who it's best for: Hot sleepers who want the pressure relief and supportive comfort of foam, but are worried about overheating and night sweats. Its ventilation allows for more air to flow through, rather than getting trapped in the foam.
Key takeaways: Most mattress toppers use materials that are known for trapping heat, but this one has ventilated foam that makes it more breathable. The foam also incorporates cooling gel that's designed to pull heat away from your body. And because it's foam, you still get the benefits of pressure relief and motion isolation.
Another perk is the topper comes in three heights, allowing you to pick the right model for your bed depending on the depth of your existing mattress. It also has adjustable straps to help achieve the most secure fit, along with a slip-resistant mesh material on the bottom, so it stays in place. The foam has a medium to medium-firm feel and its cover is removable and machine washable.
What testers say: Our testers liked how it upgraded the feel of their beds and the fact that its straps and textured bottom helped keep it in place. While it didn't feel cool to the touch, users noticed that they didn't overheat either. A tester of a similar Viscosoft model said, "One night I left the heat on full blast by mistake and I still didn't overheat, and that was impressive."
Another tester said after sleeping on the topper, "I now wake up free of aches and pains, and I toss and turn less in my sleep." One thing to note: Some testers found it to have a foam-y smell upon opening and said it took some time for the odor to dissipate.
Pros
- Secure straps attach to corners of mattress
- Lofty 5-inch height
- Unique shredded memory foam and fiber fill
Cons
- Testers said their sheets would slide off because of added height
Height: 5 in. | Fill material: Shredded memory foam and fiber fill | Available sizes: Twin XL, Queen, King, California King
Who it's best for: Side sleepers looking for pressure relief around their shoulders and hips who want a plush, sinking-in feeling and a lot of cushion, without resorting to a down topper.
Key takeaways: Most mattress toppers are made using solid foam or a fluffy down fill, but this one uses an innovative combination of shredded memory foam and synthetic fill for a super plush feel. It also uses baffle-box construction, so the fill is evenly spread throughout the topper, and it maintains its fluffy shape. The topper is a whopping 5 inches tall, which is loftier than any other mattress topper we've tested, adding some serious height to your mattress.
Particularly ideal for side sleepers, this topper offers pressure relief around areas like the shoulders and hips. Though you'll sink into the topper, the unique fill molds to your body and still provides support. Thick side straps also help secure the topper to each corner of your mattress, so you won't have to readjust it often.
What testers say: Our at-home testers gave this 2025 Good Housekeeping Bedding Awards winner near-perfect ratings across every category including overall comfort, maintaining a comfortable temperature and ease of putting it on a bed. Testers shared that they looked forward to climbing into bed at night to experience the cozy feel of the topper and compared it to sleeping "on a cloud." One said, "The enveloped feeling and the feeling of soft support all around your body is wonderful." When describing the temperature, another tester shared, "It is very breathable and nice and cool."
The caveat: Because the topper is so thick, testers had a hard time finding sheets that stayed on without slipping at the corners. It may be worth investing in deep-pocket sheets that are specially designed for taller mattresses.
Nolah Mattress Topper
Pros
- Cushions to relieve pain points
- Elastic straps attach to the bed
- Available in two firmness levels
Cons
- Some testers found it to be too soft
Height: 2 in. | Fill material: Memory foam | Available sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
Who it's best for: This one's ideal for sleepers that struggle with back or hip pain, as well as side sleepers, thanks to its cushioning foam that contours pressure points. It has more of a sinking-in feel than other models, but testers said this foam offered relief to their discomfort.
Key takeaways: Users of Nolah beds have told us the brand's mattresses relieve back pain, hip pain and sciatica, and this topper uses the same signature foam for superior pressure relief. It comes in two firmness levels: Luxury Firm (which is like a medium in the 5 to 7 out of 10 range) and Plush (which is a soft 3 out of 10), both of which contour to bodies.
There are also wide elastic bands at the corners that stretch to secure the topper onto your mattress, though it doesn't have a removable cover, meaning it's spot-clean only. It also has a lower height than other foam options we recommend, so it's good for people that don't want to add too much height to their beds.
What testers say: “The mattress topper added a level of comfort that was lacking in my mattress," said one tester. Another added, "It made my mattress ‘new’ again." Some testers noted that it took a few days to get used to the feel, but ultimately loved how comfortable it was. They also appreciated the height, with one sharing, "It feels more premium compared to a thinner topper, but it wasn't too thick."
Just know that because it's a bit softer, one tester said it was harder to turn over during the night. Also, this pick was a Good Housekeeping Bedding Awards winner in 2024 and 2025!
RELATED: Best Mattresses for Back Pain
Parachute Home Down Mattress Topper
Pros
- Soft, cloud-like feel
- Tester said it doesn't cause them to overheat
- Smooth cotton sateen cover
Cons
- Requires regular fluffing
- No straps to secure it in place
Height: 3 in. | Fill material: 750 fill-power down and feather blend | Available sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
Who it's best for: Sleepers who want to soften the feel of their too-firm bed and are looking for a plush feel and pressure relief around common pain points.
Key takeaways: Filled with a blend of down and feathers, this luxurious 3-inch topper from Parachute can bring your dreams of sleeping on a cloud to life. The mattress topper features top-notch construction with a baffle-box design to ensure the down doesn't move within the topper, preventing a lumpy sleeping surface, and it has a dual-chamber structure for better loft. A tightly woven sateen cover ensures the fill stays inside and feels smooth and soft.
The plush topper offers pressure relief around the shoulders, hips and knees, which is ideal for side sleepers who prefer a sinking-in feel, rather than lying on top of their mattress. This makes it less ideal for back or stomach sleepers who need a bit of a firmer surface for proper spinal alignment, though. Know that the mattress topper is a bit difficult to care for, as it's dry-clean only, and it requires monthly fluffing to help it maintain its shape.
What testers say: Despite being made with insulating down fill, our tester said the mattress topper didn't feel overly warm, and she told us that she and her partner are particularly sweaty sleepers. Our tester shared, "I prefer to sleep on my side, but my mattress is too firm and causes pain, especially around my shoulders. Just one night with this topper on my bed gave me the relief I've been looking for."
Our tester who has slept on innerspring, memory foam and latex beds, including models with cushioned pillow tops, said she "finally [has] the cloud-like bed experience that [she's] always wanted." While the topper doesn't have straps or a textured bottom to help it stay in place on your bed, the tester said it didn't shift around at night, and she noted that she regularly tosses and turns while she sleeps.
RELATED: Best Down Comforters
Pros
- Adds substantial support to a mattresses
- Stay-in-place straps
- 180-night trial
Cons
- Spot-clean only
- Some testers said it slept a bit warm
Height: 3 in. | Fill material: Graphite-infused memory foam | Available sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Split King, California King
Who it's best for: Anyone looking to seriously upgrade their bed without buying an entirely new mattress. It's not as plush as other foam toppers, making it especially great for people who want pressure relief without too much sinking in.
Key takeaways: This topper gives you the conforming feel of memory foam without feeling too cushy. It also offers good motion isolation so you're less likely to feel your sleeping partner move, and it comes with built-in straps that help it stay in place on your bed. And though it's pricier than other models, it comes with an impressive 180-day trial period so you can get a refund if it's not a good fit. Just note that it's spot-clean only, meaning you can't machine wash the cover.
The brand says this topper can be used for all sleep positions — which we found to be true in our review — but notes that it's especially good for side sleepers. It also uses graphite in the foam which is designed to pull heat away from your body for a cooling feel, although testers didn't notice this effect when they tried it out.
What testers say: The biggest highlights according to our testers were the pressure relief and the fact that it made their beds feel much more substantial. They also found that its straps actually worked, with one noting, "It stays put without sliding around, and I’m so impressed by it!"
Another tester said, "I really felt very well supported on this mattress topper and felt like I slept more soundly and quietly." Though the brand claims it has cooling benefits, users didn't notice this and said it got just a bit warm.
Pros
- Certified organic materials
- Two firmness levels for comfort and support
- Durable and resilient latex
Cons
- One tester said it felt firmer than expected
Height: 2 or 3 in. | Fill material: Latex | Available sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
Who it's best for: Eco-conscious shoppers that prefer to buy organic materials from natural sources. It's also great for sleepers who want a resilient foam feel, since latex is bouncier than memory foam.
Key takeaways: Most mattress toppers are made of synthetic materials like memory foam or polyester fiberfill, but this one's certified organic by the Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS) and Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS). Not only is it organic, but it's also top quality, earning it a Good Housekeeping Bedding Award two years in a row, most recently in 2025.
Inside the topper is durable and resilient latex, and the outer cover is a soft and breathable cotton. The latex layer comes in two firmness options: Firm if you need support and resilience and plush if you want to add cloud-like softness, which has an additional charge of $90. Plus, you're able to choose between a 2- or 3-inch option, depending on your desired bed setup.
What testers say: Besides its organic makeup, at-home testers loved how it upgraded the feel of their beds. One tester shared, "Although it hugs your body like memory foam might, I don't feel like I sink in. It feels springier and lighter than memory foam." Our testers who described themselves as "hot sleepers" said the latex didn't cause their beds to feel warm.
Testers also highlighted the motion-isolating abilities, including one who shared, "My husband is an 'active sleeper' and I didn't wake up from his movements as much as I usually do." Testers also recognized how high quality the construction is, with one commenting, "It was very comfortable and very well made." Another tester said the topper felt too firm, but others were impressed by the firmness level they tested, so go with your gut when deciding between plush and firm.
RELATED: Best Organic Mattresses
Other toppers we tested
Brooklinen Down Alternative Mattress Topper: This minimal topper has a five-sided design so it stays in place on your bed like a fitted sheet. Testers said it was comfortable and they liked the boxed design, which helped keep the fill in place. Still, it's not very substantial and won't drastically change the feel of your bed.
Woolroom The Wooly Mattress Topper: Made with wool and micro-coils, this high-end topper currently retails at over $700 for a Queen. Our testers were impressed by its supportive feel and said it transformed their beds without trapping heat, but ultimately we felt it was too pricey to make the shortlist.
Tuft and Needle Mattress Topper: Testers liked that this topper added a plush feel to their beds while also offering pressure relief for sounder, more comfortable sleep. But because this pick lacks straps, testers reported that it moved around and didn't stay secure on their beds.
How we test mattress toppers
In the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab, we've tested 47 different mattress toppers, including memory foam, down and latex options. We start by reviewing the materials and features of each topper before calling in samples for our at-home sleep testers to try out on their own beds. After sleeping on the toppers for several weeks, each tester fills out a survey to provide in-depth feedback. We follow up with testers annually to check how the mattress toppers are holding up with extended use. Here's a look at the factors we consider:
✔️ Comfort: Users give the mattress topper a rating for how comfortable it is to lie on.
✔️ Temperature: Each reviewer notes whether or not they maintained a comfortable body temperature while sleeping on the topper.
✔️ Mattress enhancement: We review in detail if — and how — the topper changes the feel of our tester's mattress.
✔️ Sound: To ensure the toppers will be quiet and undetectable, each one is rated for whether it made noise during use.
✔️ Ease of use: Testers rate how easy (or difficult) it is to put the topper onto their beds.
✔️ Stay-in-place capabilities: The toppers are scored on whether or not they shift around on the beds during use.
✔️ Overall satisfaction: Finally, testers tell us whether they liked sleeping on the mattress topper, whether they plan to continue using it and any other helpful insights.
What to look for when shopping for mattress toppers
When it comes to mattress toppers, there isn't a one-size-fits-all solution for everyone. Here are the factors to consider when shopping for your most comfortable mattress topper:
- Thickness: A good topper should be at least 2 inches, but a thicker option will offer more support, especially if it's made of solid foam. People with larger frames should opt for thicker toppers for better support. If you’re just looking for a small upgrade or you don't want to make your bed too high, opt for a thinner model, which will also cost less.
- Softness: If your mattress is too firm, adding a down or fiberfill topper can offer plush comfort.
- Support: If you feel pain when you wake up, adding a foam topper can increase support and help you achieve proper spinal alignment as you sleep.
- Temperature regulation: Most mattress toppers are made of foam, down or down alternative, all of which can trap heat. If you're concerned about overheating while you sleep, look for a mattress topper with cooling features.
- Price: Though they're less expensive than a new mattress, toppers are still an investment and can cost quite a bit more than a mattress pad. Though it's not a hard and fast rule, a good mattress topper typically costs between $200 and $300 for a Queen size.
- Care: Many mattress toppers aren't washable, especially ones made of foam. Some fiberfill toppers are machine washable but may require a large-capacity machine to fit properly. In some cases, the topper's cover may be removable and washable to help you keep it clean.
- Certifications: To make sure there are no harmful levels of off-gassing chemicals in foam materials, look for labels like CertiPUR-US. For down toppers, check for the Responsible Down Standard (RDS), which ensures the ducks and geese receive humane treatment.
How to decide on materials and construction
The are several types of mattress toppers you can choose from. The right one for your needs depends on what you're looking for, including whether you'd like it to provide more firmness and support or you want it to soften up your bed.
- Memory foam mattress toppers: These are popular because they can add support, comfort and pressure relief to any mattress. There's also a wide range of price points in this category — you can even find some for under $100. You'll also see variations in memory foam, like ones infused with gel or graphite to help prevent overheating from the foam.
- Latex mattress toppers: Unlike memory foam made from petroleum, latex is a natural foam made from rubber trees. It's typically more expensive, but it's durable, more resilient and has more bounce than traditional foam. Latex toppers can be organic since they're made from natural materials.
- Pillow top mattress toppers: If your bed feels too hard and you want to add cloud-like softness, a topper made of down or fiberfill is your best bet: 100% down or down featherbeds are the most luxurious and fluffiest, while fiberfill made of polyester down alternative is less expensive and animal product-free.
- Hybrid mattress toppers: These typically include a layer of foam with a pillow top cover so you get pressure relief and support combined with plush softness. You can also find hybrids that use memory foam clusters and fiberfill in the blend — these feel more like a featherbed but with extra support.
FAQs
What's the difference between mattress toppers, pads and protectors?
- Mattress toppers are usually several inches thick and sit right on top of your mattress. The goal of a mattress topper is to make your bed more comfortable, whether by adding support or pillow top softness.
- Mattress pads aren't as thick as toppers. They also typically have five sides and go onto your bed like a fitted sheet, rather than just sitting on top. Adding a mattress pad doesn't change the feel of your bed as much as a mattress topper does, but they're typically less expensive and can often help protect your mattress from stains or spills.
- Mattress protectors are designed specifically to keep your mattress safe from accidents, dust, bedbugs and more. They don't usually have comfort enhancements. Toppers and pads can technically extend the life of your mattress by protecting it from wear and tear, but a protector is more suitable if you're just looking to keep your mattress safe. These can be five-sided (like a mattress pad) or fully encased to keep the mattress protected on all sides.
Does a mattress topper improve sleep quality?
Yes, a mattress topper can actually help you sleep better. Whether your mattress is starting to sink or sag or it's brand new and you just don't love the feel, a topper can improve its comfort. You can layer on a mattress topper for an enhanced feel, whether you purchased an expensive model that needs an affordable upgrade or you find your bed is lacking in comfort or support. Mattress toppers can also provide a boost to an older mattress if you no longer love the feel but aren't ready to buy a new mattress.
Just note that a mattress topper isn't for everyone, especially for those who prefer a firm mattress. Most toppers add softness, pressure relief or cradling comfort, and while they're certainly supportive, they won't give you the firm feel that'd you find in an innerspring bed without a pillow top.
How do I use a mattress topper?
As the name implies, a mattress topper sits right on top of your mattress. Some have straps that you can anchor onto your mattress, whereas others solely lie on top. If you use a mattress pad or protector to keep your mattress safe from spills or wear and tear, you can add them over your mattress topper as well.
Keep in mind: A mattress topper can add several inches to your bed's height. Make sure to buy sheets that will fit your mattress and its topper, especially if you have a tall mattress to begin with.
Why trust Good Housekeeping?
Lexie Sachs is the executive director of strategy and operations in the Good Housekeeping Institute, and formerly served as the executive director of the Textiles Lab, where she led testing efforts to find the best bedding, including mattress toppers. She has been testing toppers since she joined GH over 12 years ago, reviewing them in the Lab and sending them to the homes of consumer testers for more feedback. She also loves trying out mattress toppers on her own bed and swears by their ability to change the feel of any mattress.
Amanda Constantine is a home and apparel reviews analyst in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab. She has tested a variety of bedding products like sheets, mattress toppers, waterproof mattress protectors, silk pillowcases and more. Constantine also reviews mattresses for the Textiles Lab and has visited mattress production facilities to learn more about the materials used and the construction process. She recently updated this article based on testing for Good Housekeeping's 2025 Bedding Awards and added new picks to reflect tester feedback and Lab results.
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Lexie Sachs (she/her) is the executive director of strategy and operations at the Good Housekeeping Institute and a lead reviewer of products in the bedding, travel, lifestyle, home furnishings and apparel spaces. She has over 15 years of experience in the consumer products industry and a degree in fiber science from Cornell University. Lexie serves as an expert source both within Good Housekeeping and other media outlets, regularly appearing on national broadcast TV segments. Prior to joining GH in 2013, Lexie worked in merchandising and product development in the fashion and home industries.
Amanda (she/her) researches and reports on products in the Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab, ranging from clothing and accessories to home furnishings. She holds undergraduate degrees in apparel merchandising and product development and advertising and marketing communications, as well as a master of science degree in consumer sciences from The Ohio State University. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2022, Amanda was a lecturer for the fashion and retail studies program at Ohio State, where she taught fashion and textiles courses.
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