If you want to keep your night cool and comfortable, getting the best cooling mattress topper (UK) is the simplest…
Best Mattress Topper UK – Our 5 Picks Reviewed
5 Best mattress toppers on the UK market
Before we get in-depth and start discussing all of the factors that make a mattress topper amazing, let's go over a few recommendations. So, if you just want to see the best mattress toppers and don't really care why they're the best – we suggest looking at the following five models!
Mattress Toppers
1
Best Overall
Mattress Toppers
2
Best for Hip Pain
Mattress Toppers
3
Best Cooling
Mattress Toppers
4
Best Budget
Mattress Toppers
5
Best All-Faom
Best Overall: Panda Mattress Topper
If we had to choose one topper to be on top, it would have to be this model from Panda. This is because they truly go the extra mile when it comes to the materials and the construction of their toppers!
Best Overall
First off, instead of using the standard memory foam, Panda has decided to innovate. With their third-generation Hydro-foam, this topper avoids many of the issues most toppers will run into. For one, it's one of the best cooling mattress toppers you'll find!
On top of that, the foam even offers high-quality, orthopaedic support to keep your spine healthy. This is why the Panda Mattress Topper also carries our award for the best topper for back pain alongside the best topper in general!
And the covers that come with the topper are anti-bacterial, soft as a cloud, and easy to clean! This is only scratching the surface of all the things we love about this mattress topper but it should give you a good idea of why it's at number one.
Our full review of Panda Mattress Topper can be found here!
KEY FEATURES:
- Material: Bamboo and hydro foam
- Closure: Elastic straps
- Machine washab: Yes
- Sizes: Single, Small Double, UK Double, King, Super King, EU Single, EU Double, EU King, EU Emperor
- Warranty: 10 years
- Trial: 30 nights
Advantages
Hypoallergenic
100% hypoallergenic. Plus, it is eco-friendly and vegan-friendly as well.
10-year warranty plan
Panda gives you a 10-year warranty plan on this mattress topper.
Excellent price-quality ratio
In terms of the price-quality ratio, you can't get any better than this.
Disadvantages
Too thin for some sleepers
Some sleepers might prefer a slightly firmer and thicker topper.
Best for Hip Pain: Emma Premium Topper
While the Panda topper is unbeatable when it comes to dealing with back pain, when it comes to hip and shoulder pain, this is our champion!
Best for Hip Pain
Getting better pressure relief is one of the main reasons people buy mattress toppers, and when it comes to hip pain, this is the best one!
For one, you'll notice that the Emma Premium Topper is a lot thicker than most other toppers. While your standard memory foam model is typically between 4 and 7cm thick, the Emma Premium Topper stands at a whopping 9cm!
And this means that you're going to feel a much bigger difference in terms of mattress feel and pressure relief. On top of that, the Premium Topper also has high-quality supportive foam that comfortably cradles your hips and shoulders.
This is also why this topper is an excellent choice for side sleepers. Plus, both the foam and the cover were made with breathability in mind, so, hot sleepers should be rather happy as well.
To learn more, read our full review of the Emma Premium Topper.
KEY FEATURES:
- Material: Memory foam, polyester, elastane
- Closure: N/A
- Machine washable: Cover at 40 degrees C
- Sizes: Single, Small Double, Double, King, Super King
- Warranty: 10 years
- Trial: 100 nights
Advantages
Amazing for side sleepers
The topper is thicker than most other models, which is ideal for side sleepers.
Supportive
Fantastic pressure relief and balance of firmness and support.
10 years warranty
You get a 10 year-warranty for this product and a decent sleep trial.
Disadvantages
On the expensive side
There are much cheaper toppers available.
Not ideal for stomach sleepers
This topper might be a tad too soft for stomach sleepers.
Best Cooling: Simba Mattress Topper
If you want the best cooling mattress topper the UK has to offer and price is an afterthought, we strongly suggest looking at the Simba Hybrid Mattress Topper!
Best Cooling
In terms of the construction, the Simba Mattress Topper has a lot going on. With three foam layers, 2500 Aerocoil springs, and a mesh on the sides, the Simba Hybrid mattress topper was meticulously crafted to cover all of its bases.
And it's important not to understate how unique this topper is. After all, it's one of the very few hybrid toppers on the market. And the addition of springs, while rare, makes for an entirely different sleeping experience, with the topper being leaps and bounds ahead of the competition in terms of tailored support.
It also comes with extremely good thermo regulation via its Simbatex technology and even elastic straps to keep it nice and snug. So, while it's definitely a bit more expensive than the other toppers we've featured, we'd say it's worth it!
Feel free to check out our Simba mattress topper review to get more information on this product.
KEY FEATURES:
- Material: Simba-Pure synthetic latex
- Closure: Elastic Straps
- Machine washable: Cover at 40 degrees
- Sizes: UK Single, Small Double, UK Double, UK King, UK Super King
- Warranty: 10 years
- Trial: 200 nights
Advantages
Cooling
It is cooling and therefore highly breathable.
Eco-friendly
The entire manufacturing process is eco-friendly.
Durable and wrinkle-free
The topper will stick around for a while and be wrinkle-free while doing so.
Disadvantages
Pricey
It's a bit more expensive than similar models.
Too firm for some
Smaller side sleepers could need a softer topper.
Best Budget: Silentnight Airmax Mattress Topper
If you want to make your current mattress a bit more comfy without spending too much money, the Airmax mattress topper should be perfect for you!
Best Budget
This polyester topper stands out for doing everything rather well despite its low price point.
Like most hollowfibre toppers, it's rather soft and offers decent breathability. And if you go for the Airmax 800, the topper is decently thick as well, at 8cm. That being said, it's also not as dense as a memory foam topper or as firm as a hybrid topper.
In other words, you still need a somewhat decent mattress underneath. But if you just want your bed to be a tad softer, this topper is ideal (especially if you're also on a budget).
It also comes with two straps that you can quickly strap around your mattress in order to make sure it stays in place. So, while it might not be the absolute best in any specific department, it's fairly amazing overall and quite an affordable topper!
Our full review of the Silentnight Airmax Mattress Topper can be found here!
KEY FEATURES:
- Material: Polyester
- Closure: Elastic Straps
- Machine washable: Yes
- Sizes: Single, Double, King, Super King
- Warranty : N/A
- Trial: N/A
Advantages
Breathable
Thanks to high-quality material standards, this topper is highly breathable.
Price-quality ratio
For the price you pay, you get a piece of heaven to sleep on.
Easy maintenance
Just throw it in the washing machine and let it wash.
Disadvantages
Some sleepers find it too soft
Some sleepers, especially those who prefer firmer toppers, find it too soft.
Best All-Foam – Silentnight Impress Memory Foam Mattress Topper
If you want an all-foam topper that's going to hug you from all sides during the night, the Silentnight Impress Memory Foam Mattress Topper should be for you!
Best All-Faom
Whether you just want to make your mattress a bit softer or you need a bit of extra pressure relief, a memory foam topper can do wonders! And when it comes to the Silentnight Impress Memory Foam Mattress Topper, memory foam is all you're getting.
But this isn't a bad thing. After all, most multi-layered toppers only use about 2cm of memory foam. This topper on the other hand can use up to 7cm! So, you will notice a huge difference.
And with this much memory foam, motion transfer shouldn't be a problem anymore, which is a huge plus for couples. Plus, the cover is easily removable and machine-washable, so, maintenance is rather simple as well.
The topper even comes in 3 different thicknesses. So, depending on how much memory foam you need in your life, you can pick the perfect model.
To learn more, you can read our full review of the Silentnight Impress Memory Foam Mattress Topper.
KEY FEATURES:
- Material: Memory Foam
- Closure: Zipped cover
- Machine washable: Yes
- Sizes: Single, Small Double, Double, King, Super King
- Warranty: 2 years
- Trial: N/A
Advantages
All memory foam
This topper is made out of 100% memory foam.
Removable cover
Remove the cover and wash it in your washing machine.
Good for side sleepers
The thicker models of this topper are ideal for side sleepers.
Disadvantages
Not for everyone
Larger individuals, as well as stomach sleepers, might need a firmer topper.
Off-gassing
Since this is an all-foam topper, expect some off-gassing the first night.
Features to look for in the best mattress topper UK
Wanting the best mattress toppers usually comes with quite a lofty goal: transforming any mattress into a comfy one. And sometimes the role of the mattress topper is a bit easier – it just needs to be a soft top layer. Whatever the case may be, a topper needs to satisfy many important standards.
But knowing how to choose a mattress topper that will suit your needs isn't always intuitive. After all, there are many factors at play and it can be impossible to distinguish the best mattress toppers from average ones by just looking at them. So, we've decided to compile all of the facts and features that make a mattress topper the best mattress topper!
Softness and comfort
Just like when choosing a mattress, comfort is king. However, what's comfortable for some might keep others awake. For example, a memory foam mattress topper is likely going to be ideal for anyone who wants a soft sleeping surface that can cradle their body. So, for these people, the best mattress toppers probably feature some type of memory foam,
However, memory foam toppers aren't your only choice! As you've seen in our recommendations, there are also firmer hybrid models. So, if you have a memory foam mattress and want some extra support, a hybrid is likely going to be a lot more comfortable. Therefore, don't think that the best mattress toppers have to be soft – as sometimes memory foam toppers can lead to a sleeping experience with no back support and lots of morning pain. Rather, think of it like this, the best mattress topper is the one that makes up for whatever the mattress underneath lacks!
The material
As you could see from the previous example, the material used to make the mattress topper dictates its softness and comfort to a large degree. Along with other features. And while most mattress toppers will use some sort of foam, the thickness, density, and foam type still make for a wide array of different experiences.
With that being said, we still want to give you a general overview. So, here are all the materials you can expect to see making up your favourite mattress topper and what they typically bring to the table. And depending on what you're looking for, you'll be able to judge for yourself which material makes for the best mattress toppers.
Synthetic/Polyester
Synthetic mattress toppers are generally the cheapest options you'll find on the market. However, they're typically not the best quality. This is especially true when it comes to temperature regulation.
So, if you want the best budget mattress topper, synthetics can be an option. But if you want a high-quality cooling mattress topper, you probably want to look elsewhere. You can also sometimes find mattress toppers that use a blend of synthetics and natural materials. They're not too common but they can potentially make for the best mattress topper if you're looking for firmer, budget-friendly options.
Feather/down
Feather and down mattress toppers are best known for being incredibly fluffy and light. A goose-down mattress topper is especially good in this department as it can feel like sleeping on a cloud. And for people who hate hard surfaces, these could be the best mattress toppers on the market!
However, if you don't have the best mattress underneath, you can easily end up with too little support. Plus, a goose-down mattress topper can cause an allergic reaction for some people. So, if you're an allergy sufferer and a duck feather can cause a breakout, be extra cautious.
Wool
A wool mattress topper is an excellent choice for hot sleepers that want to stick to natural materials. Wool is generally very good at temperature regulation on top of being naturally hypoallergenic. So, it might be the best mattress topper for hot sleepers that want to avoid dense, mushy foams.
However, don't expect it to be as adaptable as a memory foam topper or as soft as a feather and down mattress topper. And if you're also using a mattress protector or mattress pads, it might end up feeling a bit stiff. It's also not the most common mattress topper – so, keep these things in mind.
Memory foam
If you need a mattress topper that can cradle you like a baby, memory foam is the most obvious choice. It's relatively easy to find and it's arguably the best mattress topper when it comes to adapting to your body as you sleep. And this in turn leads to a significant amount of pressure and pain relief.
However, while it makes for a nice and soft mattress topper, it typically isn't a very breathable one. This is why you usually have to pay a bit extra in order to have it be graphite-infused or opt for a very breathable mattress cover. So, while it can potentially be the best mattress topper, it can also cost a bit extra if you tend to overheat at night.
Latex
Latex carries over a few of the benefits we've already listed. Just like wool mattress toppers, it's naturally hypoallergenic. And just like memory foam mattress toppers, it cradles your body and takes the pressure off of your joints. So, for allergy sufferers with hip/back pain, it might just make for the best mattress topper!
However, a memory foam mattress topper is a lot cheaper and easier to find. Plus, latex mattress toppers are a bit firmer, so, they might not be for everyone. So, if you're in the market for a luxurious topper, latex toppers can be a solid choice. But if you're budget-oriented, latex isn't going to make the cut for the best budget mattress topper.
Bamboo
Bamboo is a relatively new arrival, however, it's already a contender for making the best mattress toppers! For one, it's very breathable, which is why it's usually paired with memory foam. Plus, it's sustainable, hypoallergenic, and good for your skin.
The only downsides are that bamboo mattress toppers are much harder to find and they can be somewhat expensive. However, brands like Panda do away with those issues to a large extent.
High breathability
Whether you're choosing a pillow, a mattress, or a duvet, breathability is always an important factor. After all, who wants to wake up covered in sweat? And, as you've probably noticed, this feature is heavily dictated by the material used and, to a lesser extent, the bed sheets.
Generally, unless you go for a luxury mattress topper, memory foam is going to trap a lot of heat. A wool mattress topper is typically going to be a lot better off. A down mattress topper can manage. And a latex topper is neither here nor there.
Of course, there is also leeway and some exceptions. For example, some memory foam is infused with other materials in order to be a lot more breathable. And unless you're getting a really deep mattress topper, the mattress underneath still has a large role in determining the airflow during the night.
So, it's not an entirely straightforward process. There are some common trends, like down toppers being more breathable than memory foam, but you need to look at it on a case-by-case basis. After all, maybe the best mattress topper for you has memory foam infused with graphite!
Hypoallergenic materials
It goes without saying that not everyone needs a hypoallergenic mattress topper. However, we'd say that if you're already getting a new mattress topper, you might as well make it hypoallergenic.
After all, your friends might be allergy sufferers. Or, someone in your family can develop allergies later on in life. Plus, most good mattress toppers are hypoallergenic already. So, odds are, you're getting one either way and the best hypoallergenic mattress topper is probably also the best topper in general.
However, we will point out that if you're getting a wool mattress topper or a goose-down mattress topper, make sure that no one in your family is allergic to wool or feathers. And if you do happen to experience flare ups shortly after getting a new mattress topper, consult your GP.
Easy maintenance
Since the mattress topper is now between you and the mattress itself, it's taking on the brunt of dead skin cells, accidental spills, and the accumulation of dust mites. So, making sure that it's easy to clean will save you a lot of time in the long run.
Firstly, a removable and machine-washable cover is a must. But if you really want to keep things spick and span, an extra layer of protection, like a thin mattress protector, is welcome. This is especially true if it's from Tencel or some other material that can be easily wiped down.
After all, even the best memory foam toppers can be a nightmare to clean. So, if you want a firm mattress topper and an easy cleaning routine, avoid foam. And if you want to know how to clean your mattress topper, we have just the article for you!
It's also worth keeping in mind that some mattress toppers age a lot more graciously than others in this regard. So, while a synthetic mattress topper is going to need minimal upkeep throughout its lifespan, a down mattress topper is going to need a lot more attention later on. After all, once the topper starts breaking down, feathers will be everywhere! And depending on who you are, mattress toppers that you have to pamper every week might not make for the best mattress toppers in the long run!
Support
Another important factor to consider when getting the best mattress topper is support. For example, if your current mattress is very supportive and firm, the topper should have a comfort layer to make it a bit more cosy. This also applies if the mattress is thin or on a hard surface – like with a sofa bed.
However, if the mattress is soft, getting a hybrid mattress topper can help you avoid back pain in the morning! So, it's typically best to go for opposites – a hybrid topper for memory foam mattresses and a memory foam topper for hybrid/spring mattresses.
The size
The size of the mattress topper is important in a few ways. For one, if your mattress topper is a king size and your mattress is a double size, it's going to hang or even slip off!
So, you have to determine ahead of time whether you need a double, king, super king or even a custom size! And if you need any help, we recommend visiting our mattress size chart.
Secondly, the thickness of the mattress topper determines how much it can influence the mattress underneath. So, if you want your old tired mattress to feel like a new mattress, get the thickest topper you can find! On the other hand, if your current mattress is pretty great already, the best mattress topper might be on the thinner side and just give it an extra comfort boost.
The brand
While we're aware that some people might care about the price a lot more than the brand, it's still worth considering. And this is for two main reasons. Firstly, there's typically a level of quality associated with bigger brands. In fact, some even have rather unique features.
For example, if you get a John Lewis Partners Synthetic Soft Touch mattress topper, you'll see that it comes in two separate parts – making maintenance a lot easier. And this isn't something you're likely to find with a lesser-known brand. The same goes when getting a down mattress topper – while a bigger brand is probably using ethically-sourced, high-quality down, a smaller brand might have to mostly utilise feathers in order to keep the cost down.
Secondly, the coverage is usually a lot better. From guarantees to return policies and better delivery rates, these factors can make up for the slightly higher cost of the mattress.
However, it's also important to stay safe. So, if some shady website is offering an Eve mattress topper (who have stopped production at the time of writing) at a very low price, it's better to go down a different route.
Good bonus features
Lastly, so that we don't stay here forever, let's list off a few features that are far from essential. However, they're pretty nifty when they're present!
- Materials that prevent slipping – Nobody wants a slippery topper!
- Eco-friendly materials – If you're environmentally conscious, this is a big plus.
- Elasticated straps – Good corner straps can keep your mattress topper secured.
- Adjustability – Toppers like the Emma Flip Topper will always be a safe bet since their features can be adjusted to an extent.
Tips for buying and using the best mattress topper UK
When it comes to finding the best mattress toppers UK has, it all heavily depends on what you need. Namely, what is your sleeping style, what features are a must, and which mattress do you plan to use underneath?
For example, if you're using a memory foam mattress, sleep on your stomach and have back pain, hybrid mattress toppers are likely going to be a lot more comfortable than foam models.
On the other hand, if the firmness of your mattress is fine as is and you just want better breathability, the best wool mattress topper might be more your style! Or even a thin down mattress topper.
So, first, determine what you need in terms of the material. Then decide whether you want a budget mattress topper or a luxury mattress topper – as the price can swing drastically.
Lastly, take care of the smaller details – the size, the covers, the design, the brand, coverage, etc. By going through it in this order, you're less likely to get blind-sighted or overwhelmed by the number of options:
- Determine the type of mattress topper you need
- Determine how much you're willing to spend
- Iron out the specifics
The advantages of owning the best mattress topper UK
A mattress topper is not a necessity, but it can greatly impact how you sleep at night if you choose the right one. It adds another layer of comfort to your existing mattress, serves as a mattress protector and you can easily move it when you need to (just like a mattress pad). Plus, they come with all the benefits of getting a good mattress! For example:
- A mattress topper is a great new layer of comfort you can add to an existing mattress.
- In case you change locations, or if you're travelling somewhere for a long time, you can use your mattress topper over any sleeping surface to feel right at home.
- A mattress topper can also protect your existing mattress from wearing out prematurely. And this is quite a huge plus if you have an expensive mattress!
- If your old mattress started wearing out, a mattress topper makes for a cheap upgrade until you can afford to get a brand-new mattress.
- A mattress topper is a great way to ‘modify' the firmness of your existing mattress. If it's too soft, synthetic or wool toppers can make it feel a bit more sturdy. On the other hand, if your mattress is too firm, you can get a memory foam layer hybrid/feather or down mattress topper to add an extra bit of fluffiness.
- Depending on which material you choose, you can get a mattress topper that can keep you cool or warm at night, depending on your preferences. Also, don't forget that there are many models which have a temperature-regulating feature which is awesome for couples with different sleeping habits. And while even the best cooling mattress topper can't completely substitute a good mattress, pillow and duvet – it can do some of the heavy lifting.
- Mattress toppers generally collect less dust, are less prone to getting dust mites and are overall hypoallergenic.
- A good topper can help slightly with some conditions such as MS, fibromyalgia, hip pain, etc.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are a lot of factors at play if you want to find mattress toppers that are perfect for you. Whether you have a soft mattress or a firmer mattress. Do you need gel-infused memory foam to disperse body heat or is a synthetic topper good enough?
This is why we test mattress toppers rigorously and try to represent all of the ups and downs! And in case none of the toppers we've mentioned so far fit what you're looking for, here are a few more suggestions that just barely didn't make the list: The Tempur mattress topper, the Freshtec cooling mattress topper, John Lewis Partners Synthetic Soft Touch mattress topper…
But remember, even the best mattress toppers UK has to offer can't completely nulify the need for a good mattress! So, whether it's one of the Tempur mattresses, Panda's breathable models or Simba's high-tech solutions, we suggest sticking with The Sleep Advisors and making sure all of your bedding is as good as it gets!
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FAQs about the best mattress topper UK
The FAQs section is here to answer a few more questions we may have missed to answer in the previous part of the article. And also, to provide you with all the most important things that interest you when we talk about a mattress topper in one place.
What type of a mattress topper is the best?
There is no one “best” mattress topper. Memory foam toppers are best for comfort, hybrid mattress toppers are the best for support, feather and down mattress toppers are the softest, etc.
What is the ideal mattress topper thickness?
The ideal thickness depends on the firmness underneath and your weight. Typically, 5 cm is enough to slightly alter the feeling of the mattress while you need 8 cm or more for significant changes.
How soft does a mattress topper need to be?
If you're a side sleeper, it's best if the mattress topper is very soft. For stomach and back sleepers, a slightly firmer mattress topper is usually better.
How do I clean my mattress topper?
If the topper has a removable cover, you can typically wash it in the washing machine. The topper itself usually needs to be wiped down and spot cleaned.
Does a mattress topper come with a hypoallergenic cover?
Most toppers come with a hypoallergenic cover but that's not always the case. Try to find bamboo or cotton covers for the best results.
Are mattress toppers and mattress protectors the same thing?
No. Mattress toppers focus more on comfort while mattress protectors are usually sturdier and easier to clean.
How to get a good mattress topper for my back pain?
A medium-thick memory foam topper is usually the best option for dealing with back pain due to the pain relief it brings.
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