5 Different Types of Mattress Toppers
Written by Nectarsleep editorial team
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Last Updated on Jun 27, 2022
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Anyone upgrading their sleeping supplies would have come across this accessory, 'a mattress topper'. So what comes to mind when you think about a mattress topper? Well, probably something fluffy, comfortable, and a durable piece made of layers of quality fabric.
The description can indeed resemble one in real life. Still, is that all? The bottom line of distinguishing anything is the stuff it is made of. The material will decide the durability, the cooling effect, the compressibility, etc.
Hence, to choose the right mattress topper, one must consider the different types of mattress toppers and know what material is best for a mattress topper. Head to this article to make the best choice for your sleeping luxury.
What is a Mattress Topper?
Before actually looking out for the right choice, one must be sure about what a mattress topper is. Something to put on the top of a mattress? Of course! But that's how a mattress pad also works. Hence, the difference lies in their purposes and thickness.
A mattress is accompanied by a thick, soft, comfortable layer made of sub-layers of different materials. This accompanying entity is a mattress topper, thicker than a mattress pad. A mattress topper might be the most overlooked thing in a beautifully maintained bed, but it has more purposes than just making an adorable bed-sight.
Apart from providing a cushioning comfort, a mattress topper can be used to protect the mattress from getting stained, to get a cooling effect during sleep, etc. The answer to "how to choose a mattress topper?" depends upon how you need your mattress topper to be. This can be further examined by considering the best material for a mattress topper that can look after all you expect.
Different types of mattress toppers
The types of mattress toppers are based on the materials used in them. Let us brief them one by one:
- Latex: Latex comes from the exudations of the rubber tree. Hence, this material is called man-made organic. The material is soft enough but unsuitable for someone allergic to latex.
- Memory Foam: Memory foam works best for providing a fluffy and comfortable space for sleeping. It adds height to your mattress and is a perfect fit for winters because it gathers heat and reduces the cooling effect.
- Polyester Blends: Polyester can give a feathery feel but is rarely supportive. It is best for people with a tight budget.
- Feathers: Feathers can be soft and an excellent value for money but only for a counted period unless the feathers bend and become stiff.
- Wool: The benefits of wool outweigh its shortcomings. It is durable, suitable for different weathers, and is supportive. The only trouble it can cause you would be its unavailability.
Let us look more into these, one by one:
Latex Mattress Topper
The sap of rubber trees and some additives, most probably chemicals, forms latex. The chemicals are added to ensure the stiffness of the mattress topper. Latex may or may not be softer but is supportive and is preferred for people suffering from joint problems as it would save them from any jerky moments on the bed.
Due to its stiffness, it stays firm. Hence, your restless kids won't be able to upset your maintained bedding even if they keep jumping over it. Its firmness allows the place to be stable. However, you might not choose to buy latex if any of your family members or you are allergic to this natural substance.
When newly used, being a natural substance, it can often spill its natural odor; you can sometimes smell rubber. Latex toppers can be found in online stores and typically range between $220 and $499. So, if you are someone whose budget often runs tight, you might want to look into better options for your topper.
Memory Foam Mattress Topper
The best purpose that memory foam serves is its softness. The stuff of a memory foam mattress is compressible and bouncy. But being bouncy doesn't mean it cannot resist motion, and memory foam can perfectly restore the deformation caused to it once the pressure is released.
Memory foam is known for its thickness which adds considerable height to your bed. People suffering from anatomical problems can expect comfort from memory foam.
The only reason you resist memory foam mattress toppers could be the heated environment it produces. But, at the same time, the other reason is its cost, which often sounds high to most people when they judge its benefits.
Polyester Blend Mattress Topper
Polyester blends, sounding more chemical from the name than being pad stuff. They are the perfect short time aid for people who cannot afford the expensive ones. As the name suggests, polyester blends are a combination of polyester and natural fibers, which is probably the reason for their reasonable pricing.
Unlike latex and memory foam, it does not produce any odor that might disturb your nose otherwise. Hence, you can enjoy your food without getting your nose feeling uncomfortable in the initial days of use too.
On one side, it can be suitable for providing softness, but there is no assurance of support. It may or may not be causing heat but does not attract it.
Feather Mattress Topper
Feathers mattress toppers can be as soft as the name of their material. With its increasing softness, it tends to reduce support. Hence, not fit for playful kids who like to dance over the bed. Feathers are very much appreciated because they retain heat and maintain a little cooling effect.
However, some people turn out to be allergic to stuff like cotton and feathers as their tiny weightless entities can invade their noses through the air. No doubt they can be easily affordable as compared to other soft materials, but this lower cost owes a lot to the less durability. Feathers can be fragile and hence, not suitable for long-term expectations.
Woolen Mattress Topper
Wool is the best choice for people looking for toppers suitable for both the summer and winter seasons. It deals with the weather perfectly. Plus, it is soft and comfortable to use. The surety about wool is that it is the most durable material of all mattress toppers.
Apparently, wool is a perfect alternative for people ready to pay high for their toppers. It is suitable for old-aged people who seek support for their wearing joints. Your kids will love this material when it would not slip away the whole setting after jumping on it for the umpteenth time.
There are not many disadvantages to wool as compared to other types. However, it is high in cost. Plus, it can often be hard to find in the market. You might also experience the sheep odor in the initial days of use, but that settles down with time.
Final Words
The article discusses all the necessary things to consider before investing in your mattress topper. In a nutshell, all the different types of mattress toppers have some of the other advantages and disadvantages, which depend on your preferences.
Hence, if the first thing considered is a tight budget, polyester blends and feathers can be the materials for you. They are easily affordable, and despite the less durability, these materials offer you the luxuries at a low rate.
Memory foam and latex are the next to seek for. A little expensive but give high returns. They are good for support and somewhat soft. However, heat retention can be an issue for memory foam, limiting the material to a specific season.
Above all, wool is undoubtedly the rarest and most expensive but also gives the best value for the money unless you are allergic to wool.
