What can you put over your mattress to make it more comfortable?

September 22, 2025 •

3 min read

According to the National Sleep Foundation, a staggering number of people report being dissatisfied with their sleep. Often, the culprit is an uncomfortable or unsupportive bed. Thankfully, you can find a variety of excellent products to put over your mattress to make it more comfortable without the cost of a full replacement.

Quick Summary

You can use a mattress topper, which adds a thick layer of cushioning and support, or a mattress pad, which provides lighter comfort and protection. Other methods include using different bedding, reinforcing your bed's foundation, or simply rotating your mattress.

Key Points

Mattress Toppers: Add a thick, supportive layer, available in materials like memory foam, latex, and down, to change the feel of your bed.
Mattress Pads: Use a thinner, quilted pad for a light comfort layer and to protect your mattress from stains and allergens.
Material Matters: Choose memory foam for pressure relief, latex for bouncy support, down for plushness, and wool for temperature regulation.
Consider Your Needs: Select a topper based on your sleep position (e.g., thicker for side sleepers) and whether you need firmness or softness.
Inspect Your Foundation: Ensure your bed frame and box spring are providing solid support, as a sagging foundation can make your mattress uncomfortable.
The Right Pillow: Don't overlook the importance of your pillow; proper head and neck alignment is crucial for overall sleep comfort.

Your Top Option: Mattress Toppers

For a significant change in feel, a mattress topper is your best bet. A topper is a thick, removable layer that sits on top of your existing mattress. They come in a variety of materials, each offering different benefits, from contouring support to plush softness.

Popular Mattress Topper Materials

Memory Foam: Known for its body-conforming properties, memory foam is excellent for pressure point relief. It cradles your body's curves, which can help alleviate back and joint pain. For hot sleepers, look for gel-infused or open-cell memory foam to help with cooling.
Latex: Derived from the sap of rubber trees, latex foam is naturally bouncy and durable. It offers buoyant support and is a good choice for those who want cushioning without the "sinking in" feeling of memory foam. Latex is also naturally breathable and hypoallergenic.
Down or Feather: A down or feather topper provides an incredibly plush, cloud-like softness. This is ideal if you want to soften a firm mattress. Keep in mind that they offer minimal support and require regular fluffing to maintain their loft.
Wool: Wool toppers are a great natural option. They offer excellent temperature regulation, keeping you warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Wool is also naturally hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites.

How to Choose the Right Mattress Topper

Determine your sleep goals: Do you need more pressure relief for back pain, or do you just want extra softness? Your primary goal will guide your material choice.
Consider your sleep position: Side sleepers often need a thicker, softer topper to cushion pressure points at the hips and shoulders. Back and stomach sleepers generally need a firmer, more supportive surface to maintain proper spinal alignment.
Factor in temperature: If you tend to sleep hot, opt for breathable materials like latex, wool, or gel-infused memory foam to regulate temperature.
Decide on thickness: Toppers typically range from 1 to 4 inches. Thicker toppers provide a more dramatic change in feel, while thinner ones offer a subtle layer of cushioning.

The Role of Mattress Pads and Protectors

While often confused with toppers, mattress pads and protectors serve a different purpose. A pad is a thinner, quilted layer that provides a small amount of extra cushioning, while a protector is primarily for guarding your mattress against spills, stains, and allergens. Some products combine these functions.

Other Smart Strategies for a More Comfortable Bed

Evaluate your foundation: A sagging or damaged box spring or bed frame can compromise even the best mattress. Make sure your base is in good condition and provides solid, even support. A bunkie board can be added to provide a firmer surface.
Check your pillows: The right pillow is crucial for head and neck alignment. Using a pillow that doesn't properly support your sleeping position can cause discomfort that you might mistake for a bad mattress.
Adjust your room temperature: As memory foam is sensitive to temperature, a cooler room can make it feel firmer. Keeping your bedroom at an optimal temperature for sleep can directly affect your mattress's feel.
Rotate or flip your mattress: If your mattress is flippable or has developed an impression, rotating it 180 degrees every few months can help distribute wear and tear evenly, extending its life and comfort.

Mattress Topper vs. Mattress Pad: A Comparison


Feature	Mattress Topper	Mattress Pad
Primary Function	Significantly alters the feel and support of the mattress.	Adds a thin layer of cushioning and protects the mattress.
Thickness	Generally 2-4 inches or more.	Usually less than 2 inches.
Effect on Feel	Can dramatically change firmness, softness, or body contouring.	Provides a subtle, light cushioning and a softer surface feel.
Support	Offers targeted support and pressure relief, especially foam or latex.	Minimal support; primary function is protection.
Price	Generally more expensive due to material and thickness.	More affordable than a topper.

Final Thoughts: Finding Your Comfort Solution

Making your bed more comfortable doesn't have to be a major undertaking. By understanding the options available, you can pinpoint the best solution for your specific needs, whether it's the contouring hug of a memory foam topper or the light cushion of a pad. Exploring these layers can significantly improve your sleep quality and overall well-being. For further guidance on selecting bedding accessories, you can explore resources from reputable sleep organizations like The Sleep Foundation. Ultimately, a restful night's sleep is an investment in your health, and the right product can make all the difference.

Frequently Asked Questions

Choose a mattress topper if you want to make a significant change to your mattress's feel, like adding extra softness or support. Opt for a mattress pad if you just need a thin layer of cushioning and protection against stains and wear.

For back pain, a medium-density memory foam or latex topper is often recommended. These materials conform to your body, relieving pressure points and promoting proper spinal alignment without letting you sink in too much.

A topper can provide some temporary relief and added comfort to a mattress with minor sagging. However, it will not fix a deeply sagging or very old mattress, as it needs a solid foundation to provide proper support.

Yes, cooling mattress toppers can be effective. Look for toppers made with gel-infused memory foam, breathable latex, or wool, as these materials are designed to dissipate heat and regulate temperature throughout the night.

The ideal thickness depends on your needs. A 1-2 inch topper offers a subtle change, while a 3-4 inch topper creates a much more noticeable difference in feel. Side sleepers and those seeking significant pressure relief often prefer thicker toppers.

Your pillow is vital for maintaining proper head, neck, and shoulder alignment. If your pillow is not providing adequate support, it can cause discomfort and make you feel as though your mattress is the source of the problem. Choosing a pillow that complements your sleeping position can improve overall comfort.

The lifespan of a mattress topper varies by material. High-quality memory foam and latex toppers can last several years, while down alternatives may need to be replaced sooner. A good rule of thumb is to replace it when you notice a decrease in comfort or support.