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The Best Memory Foam Mattress Toppers, Tested by Experts

Feel like you're sleeping on a cloud, thanks to these comfortable, pressure-relieving selects.

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mike garten

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If your current bed isn't quite giving you the sleep you've been dreaming about, there's no need to buy an entirely new mattress to achieve a restful night of shut-eye. Instead, consider adding a mattress topper. Whether you prefer a firm or plush sleeping surface, are a hot sleeper or are seeking pain relief, there are plenty of memory foam mattress toppers that can provide the exceptional comfort, pressure relief and support you need.

At the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab, we regularly evaluate bedding of all kinds — from mattresses to pillows — and have tested 47 different mattress toppers in recent years. To choose the best memory foam mattress toppers, we research offerings from popular, top-performing brands, considering materials and features. We then assess the toppers in the Lab and share them with consumer testers who try them at home and provide us with real-user feedback about their sleep experiences. The picks ahead, listed with prices for Queen sizes, include top-tested models and toppers from brands that have performed well in our evaluations.

      1
      Best Overall

      Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Adapt Topper

      TEMPUR-Adapt Topper
      Now 14% Off
      Credit: Mike Garten

      Pros

      • High-quality, pressure-relieving foam
      • Superior motion transfer reduction
      • Removable, machine washable cover

      Cons

      • Some testers said it shifted, despite straps

      ✔️ WHO IT'S BEST FOR: This topper is an ideal addition if your bed is starting to dip and you need a little more support or if you suffer from back pain — the foam provides contouring pressure relief.

      ✔️ KEY TAKEAWAYS: When your bed is feeling too soft or you've noticed it's starting to sag, this luxury mattress topper from Tempur-Pedic might just be the perfect solution. The topper offers exceptional support, stability and a surprisingly firm feel that exceeded our expectations, given the brand's medium-firm rating.

      Plus, it uses the same foams as Tempur-Pedic's well-known mattresses, meaning you'll experience a similar high-quality, body-contouring feel for just a fraction of the price. Instead of sinking into the topper upon lying down, the memory foam material conforms directly to your body. The topper also offers the brand's super motion-isolation properties, so you shouldn't be disturbed by shifting pets or a partner who tosses and turns at night.

      ✔️ WHAT TESTERS SAY: While the topper may feel firm at first, testers and survey panelists shared that the pressure relief it provides is incomparable. One tester with chronic pain shared, "[It] almost immediately alleviated my hip and lower back pain."

      Our testers said the elastic corner straps made it easier to place the topper on a mattress (though some survey panelists still noticed the topper shifting at night). The removable machine-washable cover is also moisture-wicking, which helps prevent sweaty sleep, and our recent testers gave the topper perfect ratings for helping them to maintain a comfortable temperature. One specifically said it "prevents overheating." An optional cooling cover is available for an added fee.

      While the mattress topper is pricier than other options, our testers commented that it has maintained its shape perfectly, even after years of use, and described it as a "worthwhile investment."

      Height3 in.
      MaterialTempur foam
      SizesTwin, Twin Long, Full, Queen, King, California King
      a gh analyst pressing into the foam of a mattress topper
      ,Mike Garten
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      2
      Best Value

      Linenspa Gel Swirl Memory Foam Mattress Topper

      Gel Swirl Memory Foam Mattress Topper
      Credit: Linenspa

      Pros

      • Adds plushness to a too firm mattress
      • Gel beads and ventilated design to prevent overheating
      • Works well for side sleepers

      Cons

      • Online reviewers and brand warn of off-gassing

      ✔️ WHO IT'S BEST FOR: This topper from Linenspa is perfect for someone looking for a quick and easy fix for a too-firm bed.

      ✔️ KEY TAKEAWAYS: Described by the brand as "ultra-plush" this mattress topper helps you achieve a bed with a cloud-like feel. The cozy foam is designed to conform to your body for more of a hugging sensation, providing pressure relief and cushion — better for side or combination sleepers than back or stomach sleepers.

      The memory foam material is infused with gel beads, which can help prevent overheating while you sleep — a common problem of memory foam, which is known to trap body heat. Along with gel beads. the topper features small ventilating holes for better airflow.

      ✔️ WHAT TESTERS SAY: A popular pick on Amazon, this topper is loved for its super soft feel. One reviewer shared, "I don't know what I would do without this topper. I have neurological and muscular pain and this topper allows me to sleep like a baby." Another reviewer who used the topper nightly for more than three years commented, "This topper has held its own with little noticeable wear" and shared that she bought multiple others for guest beds in her home.

      The downside: Online reviewers said the topper lets off strong odors upon opening that can last for a few days. The brand also warns that some off-gassing is likely.

      Height2 in., 3 in. or 4 in.
      MaterialGel-infused memory foam
      SizesTwin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
      3
      Best for Hot Sleepers

      ViscoSoft Memory Foam Mattress Topper

      Memory Foam Mattress Topper

      Pros

      • Adjustable elastic straps and anti-slip mesh bottom
      • Perforated foam for airflow
      • Machine-washable cover

      Cons

      • Some testers noted a strong smell upon opening

      ✔️ WHO IT'S BEST FOR: The breathable yet firm design makes this topper a good choice for hot sleepers who prefer a more supportive sleeping surface.

      ✔️ KEY TAKEAWAYS: Upgrade your bed with the support of a memory foam mattress topper without worrying about waking up in night sweats. (Memory foam is notorious for trapping body heat.) This topper from ViscoSoft is designed with breathability in mind, so although it doesn't feel cool to the touch, the gel-infused foam is perforated for airflow and to pull heat away from the body.

      Because the topper is made with high-density foam, it's not necessarily plush so we recommend this topper for someone who prefers a medium-firm- or firm-feeling bed.

      The elastic corner straps can be adjusted to really keep the topper in place, and it has an anti-slip mesh underside for added security. For easy cleaning, the smooth outer cover can be zipped off and machine-washed.

      ✔️ WHAT TESTERS SAY: One tester praised the mattress topper and called it a "game-changer," sharing that the supportive foam helped relieve her and her husband's regular aches and pains. Testers also agreed that they maintained a comfortable temperature while sleeping on it, including one who shared, "One night I left the heat on full blast by mistake and I still didn't overheat."

      Some testers noted that getting the mattress topper onto the bed was a bit difficult and said that they noticed a strong smell after opening the cover that took a while to dissipate.

      RELATED: The Best Cooling Mattress Pads & Toppers

      Height2 in., 3 in. or 4 in.
      MaterialGel-infused memory foam
      SizesTwin, Twin XL, Full, Full XL, Queen, Short Queen, King, California King and Short King
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      4
      Best for Side Sleepers

      Tuft & Needle Foam Mattress Topper

      On Sale
      Foam Mattress Topper

      Pros

      • Non-skid grip on the bottom
      • Smooth outer cover
      • Takes pressure off hips and shoulders

      Cons

      • Spot clean only

      ✔️ WHO IT'S BEST FOR: With a plush, contouring feel, this topper is a favorite of side sleepers who are seeking pressure relief around their shoulders and hips.

      ✔️ KEY TAKEAWAYS: A memory foam mattress topper is ideal for easing pressure on the areas that support most of your weight as a side sleeper. This option from Tuft & Needle is made of 2 inches of foam for cushion, and the brand's foam material (also found in its mattresses and pillows). It's particularly popular among our tester panelists for its comfortable, plush feel and exceptional motion isolation.

      Tuft & Needle's resilient foam slowly adapts and contours to your body, so you don't instantly sink in upon contact. Rather, you lie closer to the surface of the topper, which the brand says helps prevent overheating, and the foam material has an open-cell design for added breathability and airflow.

      ✔️ WHAT TESTERS SAY: When asked about the mattress topper, one user told us, "It was comfortable from day one," and another reported less hip and back pain after sleeping on it. One tester also shared, "As a side sleeper, I find that this reduces the occasional discomfort in my shoulder."

      This topper comes with a soft knit cover to help prevent your bed sheets from bunching, but it is spot clean only. There's also a non-skid bottom to limit shifting at night, but there are no straps, so some testers reported having issues keeping the topper secure on their beds.

      Height2 in.
      MaterialMemory foam
      SizesTwin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
      5
      Best for Back Pain

      Nolah Mattress Topper

      Mattress Topper
      Now 35% Off
      Credit: Mike Garten

      Pros

      • Two firmness levels to choose from
      • Elastic straps attach to the mattress
      • Pressure-relieving foam ideal for pain points

      Cons

      • Some testers noted a strong chemical smell after opening

      ✔️ WHO IT'S BEST FOR: Thanks to its pressure-relieving abilities, Nolah's foam topper is a great choice for those who suffer from back pain.

      ✔️ KEY TAKEAWAYS: Nolah is popular among members of our tester panel who suffer from back pain, hip pain and sciatica, thanks to the exceptional pressure-relieving feel of the brand's signature AirFoam material. Available in two different firmness levels — Luxury Firm and Plush — the topper works both for those who prefer a medium-firm feel and for those looking for a softer, more cloud-like experience.

      The memory foam material is wrapped in a breathable cotton cover, and our testers reported that it was easy to zip off for cleaning. (It can go in the washing machine.) Some testers noted a strong chemical smell that lasted a few days after opening and recommended washing the cover prior to use.

      ✔️ WHAT TESTERS SAY: The foam topper lived up to its pressure-relieving reputation in our tests and was featured for two consecutive years in Good Housekeeping's Bedding Awards. The cushioning material contours to pressure points around the shoulders, hips and back, and our testers highlighted the change they experienced in sleep quality. One commented, "It made my mattress new again, but better!" Another remarked that the topper "added a level of comfort that is lacking from my mattress."

      It features wide elastic bands at each corner to attach it to your mattress and keep it secure while you sleep. One tester who used it on her adjustable bed was amazed by how secure this topper was and said, "It didn’t shift around even when we elevated the feet and head of our mattress."

      Height2 in.
      MaterialMemory foam
      SizesTwin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
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      a gh analyst putting straps from a mattress topper from nolah onto a mattress
      Mike Garten
      6
      Best Soft

      Lift by Amerisleep Mattress Topper

      Mattress Topper
      Now 25% Off
      Credit: Amerisleep

      Pros

      • Targeted cushioning and support zones
      • Two firmness levels
      • Removable, machine-washable cover

      Cons

      • Some users found the topper difficult to position correctly on their mattress

      ✔️ WHO IT'S BEST FOR: This topper from Amerisleep is zoned for pressure relief and works well for those looking for a softer, more cushioned sleeping surface.

      ✔️ KEY TAKEAWAYS: This lofty 3-inch mattress topper from Amerisleep has an ergonomic design to provide comfort, support and excellent pressure relief in all the right places. It's available in two firmness levels: "Comfort" for side sleepers or those who want a more cushioned feel and "Support" for back and stomach sleepers or those needing a little extra support. The topper is uniquely constructed with targeted zones — the zones near the head, back and feet provide additional support, while the zones surrounding the shoulders and hips offer cushioning.

      Amerisleep's foam is also made with an open-cell design that the brand says offers more breathability and ventilation compared to traditional memory foam. In addition, this option comes with a removable cover that's machine washable for easy care.

      ✔️ WHAT TESTERS SAY: When we evaluated the mattress topper, our testers gave it high scores for overall comfort, and one highlighted that it was "soft but still supportive." A tester with a history of lower back pain noticed improvement within a few weeks of using the topper. Another said it "felt soft enough that I can relax in bed and find comfort in all [sleeping] positions."

      The mattress topper utilizes the brand's micro-gripping technology to keep the topper from sliding around on your bed, but it can make the setup process more difficult, according to our testers. We recommend lifting the topper to reposition it rather than sliding it into place to avoid the topper getting stuck or even accidentally damaging your mattress.

      Height3 in.
      MaterialMemory foam
      SizesTwin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
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      7
      Best Firm

      Saatva Graphite Memory Foam Mattress Topper

      Graphite Memory Foam Mattress Topper

      Pros

      • Impressive motion isolation
      • Luxurious, substantial feel
      • 180-day trial period

      Cons

      • Spot-clean only
      • Testers did not notice claimed cooling features

      ✔️ WHO IT'S BEST FOR: This dense foam topper is a good option for back or stomach sleepers who need a firmer sleeping surface or for someone whose mattress may be sagging.

      ✔️ KEY TAKEAWAYS: Our best overall mattress brand, Saatva uses high-quality materials and excels in providing comfort and support. This luxurious 3-inch memory foam topper from the brand is a great way to upgrade your sleep experience. The foam has a firmer feel that offers both ample support and pressure relief, so you won't sink too far in. Saatva says it works well for all sleeping positions, and we've found that to be true during our evaluations.

      It also has impressive motion isolation, so you're not as likely to feel movement from your partner turning over in the middle of the night. According to Saatva, the graphite-infused memory foam is designed to pull excess heat away from your body for a cooling effect, but our testers didn't notice this effect when sleeping on the topper, and some even noted feeling warm.

      ✔️ WHAT TESTERS SAY: The topper earned high scores for being easy to place on the mattress and for its secure fit. Testers also appreciated the firm yet pressure-relieving feel. One shared, "It has a bit of structure to it, but I can still sink into it."

      According to our testers and survey panelists, the brand has excellent customer service as well, and Saatva offers a 180-day trial period, allowing you plenty of time to decide if it's the right feel for you and your bed. Unfortunately, the plush organic cotton cover can't be removed, and the brand recommends spot cleaning as needed, which makes it more difficult to care for.

      Height3 in.
      MaterialGraphite-infused memory foam
      SizesTwin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King, Split King
      8
      Best on Amazon

      Lucid Down Alternative and Gel Memory Foam Mattress Topper

      Amazon’s Choice
      Down Alternative and Gel Memory Foam Mattress Topper
      Credit: Mike Garten

      Pros

      • Affordable and convenient option
      • Foam and down-alternative hybrid
      • Fitted, stay-in-place design

      Cons

      • Some users said it sleeps warm

      ✔️ WHO IT'S BEST FOR: This layered mattress topper offers customizable cushion and comfort for those who want a plusher bed and also comes quickly from Amazon with Prime shipping.

      ✔️ KEY TAKEAWAYS: If you're looking for a quick solution for a mattress that isn't cutting it anymore, Lucid's hybrid mattress topper checks all the boxes without costing an arm and a leg. The 4-inch topper has two distinct 2-inch layers and uses both supportive memory foam and plush fiber fill. You can use the layers independently or combine them, depending on your personal preference.

      The bottom foam layer is infused with gel beads, while the top features pockets of down alternative for the typical fluffy pillow-top cushion. While there aren't elastic bands to keep the two layers connected, the down-alternative top does have an attached fitted-sheet-like design that accommodates mattresses up to 15 inches to keep everything in place. Despite the gel infused into the foam, some users still found that the topper slept hot, so it may not be the best option for particularly sweaty sleepers.

      ✔️ WHAT TESTERS SAY: One of our sleep testers shared, "This mattress topper greatly improved the feel of the bed." The tester further added, "It provides added softness and support that was lacking without it." Another tester said, "I felt so perfectly nestled in my bed without feeling like I was sinking."

      Online reviewers also said the topper helped alleviate aches and pains, with one remarking, "My back and hips feel better already after one night."

      Height4 in. (when both layers are combined)
      MaterialGel-infused memory foam and synthetic down-alternative fiber fill
      SizesTwin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
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      a memory foam mattress topper from lucid on a bed in a bedroom setup
      Mike Garten

      How we test mattress toppers

      "

      In the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab, we have a long history of evaluating all kinds of bedding, including mattress toppers and pads. We review the materials, specifications, features and claims of toppers from popular brands and then test the toppers in our Lab. We also share samples with consumer testers who try them out in their own homes.

      Here are a few things we consider when testing mattress toppers:

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      a gh analyst lying on a bed with a mattress topper
      Mike Garten

      ✔️ Overall comfort: Users score the mattress topper on how comfortable it feels to sleep and lie down on.

      ✔️ Mattress enhancement: We consider how the topper changes the feel of our testers' mattresses.

      a gh analyst pressing down on a memory foam mattress topper
      Mike Garten

      ✔️ Temperature: Our testers note whether they were able to maintain a comfortable body temperature while sleeping on the topper and shared if any cooling features lived up to their claims.

      ✔️ Sound: We ask our testers to assess the amount of noise, if any, the topper created during use.

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      a gh analyst pulling the strap of a mattress topper
      Mike Garten

      ✔️ Ease of use: Testers rate how easy (or difficult) it is to set up the topper on their beds and note any issues with delivery.

      ✔️ Stay-in-place capabilities: Users report whether the topper shifted or moved during their testing experience. We gauge and make note of any special features like straps or grip technology.

      ✔️ Overall satisfaction: Finally, our reviewers tell us whether they liked sleeping on the mattress topper and whether they plan to continue using it. They also relay any likes, dislikes or additional comments about their user experience.

      What to look for when shopping for the best memory foam mattress topper

      "

      Mattress toppers, like mattresses, aren't a one-size-fits-all product, so here are some things to consider when shopping for the best memory foam mattress topper for you:

      ✔️ Thickness: Most mattress toppers are 2 to 4 inches thick, and we recommend choosing one that's at least 2 inches. Thicker toppers can provide additional support, but if you're looking for a more affordable upgrade, a thinner model is a great option. Keep in mind that toppers will add to the height of your mattress, which can affect how bed sheets fit.

      ✔️ Softness: If your mattress is too firm, look for a plush topper that has a softer firmness level. If you're after additional support, go with a firmer option.

      ✔️ Support: If you wake up with back or hip pain, a memory foam topper can add firmness and support to provide pressure relief in relevant areas.

      ✔️ Temperature regulation: Memory foam is known to trap body heat, which can result in night sweats. If you overheat easily, opt for a topper with cooling features like graphite- or gel-infused foam and perforated construction for airflow.

      ✔️ Stay-in-place features: If you're concerned that your mattress topper may move or shift at night, look for toppers with features like corner straps that hook onto your mattress or a non-skid bottom that'll keep it locked in place. You can also consider adding a mattress protector if you find your topper needs something extra to keep it from shifting.

      ✔️ Care: Many mattress toppers aren't machine washable, especially those made of memory foam, but some may come with a removable cover that can be washed by hand or in a machine. Be sure to follow all of the brand's recommended care instructions (typically found in online product descriptions and on the product care label) to keep your mattress topper in tip-top shape.

      ✔️ Certifications: To ensure that there aren't any harmful levels of chemicals in your memory foam topper, keep an eye out for a certification from CertiPUR-US. A GREENGUARD certification for indoor air quality signifies that the mattress topper has met chemical emission standards.

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      Are memory foam mattress toppers good for your back?

      "

      Memory foam mattress toppers are an excellent option for back pain sufferers. Jaspal R. Singh, M.D., co-director of the Center for Comprehensive Spine Care at Weill Cornell Medicine and New York-Presbyterian, told us that there isn't a definitive type of mattress or mattress topper that's the best for alleviating back pain, but some patients who sleep on mattresses containing memory foam have reported feeling well supported and experiencing restful sleep. This can be attributed to memory foam's ability to offer pressure relief, which can be critical in areas surrounding the hips or shoulders.

      Why trust Good Housekeeping?

      linebreak

      Amanda Constantine joined the Good Housekeeping Institute in 2022 as a home and apparel reviews analyst and has tested bedding products including sheets, mattress protectors and duvet covers in the Textiles Lab. She has also researched and evaluated mattresses from popular brands like Tempur-Pedic, Puffy and Saatva. For this article, she used her categorical expertise and data from our most recent round of bedding tests to add new picks and more product information.

      Grace Wu has evaluated many different bedding products, physically in the Lab using specialized equipment and in her home as well as through analyzing feedback from hundreds of consumer testers. She regularly reports on different types of mattresses, from hybrid mattresses to mattresses for adjustable beds, and mattress toppers, including latex mattress toppers.

      Headshot of Amanda Constantine
      Amanda Constantine
      Home & Apparel Reviews Analyst

      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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