11 best mattress toppers for comfort & support in 2026, tested & reviewed
Once seen as a purely practical add-on for tired beds and spare rooms, mattress toppers have moved far beyond their functional roots to become an essential sleep upgrade. I personally used to think mattress toppers were more of a nice-to-have than a game-changer, but after testing more than a few, I’m officially converted.
The right topper can completely transform how your mattress feels, whether you’re after extra comfort for a too-firm mattress, more cushioning for pressure points, or clever temperature regulation to stop you overheating at 3am. It’s also one of the easiest ways to upgrade your sleep surface without committing to the price tag of a new mattress.
- Our full reviews.
- What is a mattress topper?
- What different types of mattress toppers are there?
- How we tested
- Why you should trust us
- What is the best mattress topper for back pain?
- How do you clean a mattress topper?
- How do you stop a mattress topper from sliding?
- How thick should a mattress topper be?
- Can a mattress topper really keep you cool?
- How to choose the best mattress topper
There’s plenty of choice out there, from the best memory foam mattress topper for back pain and pressure relief, to a cooling mattress topper that hot sleepers will love, to breathable wool mattress toppers for year-round comfort. You’ll also find hypoallergenic options for allergy sufferers, soft mattress toppers that feel like lying on a cloud, and hybrid toppers that combine foam layers with springs for support that adapts to your sleeping position – however unique that is. Some come with elastic straps or corner straps to keep them in place, others with washable covers you can throw in the washing machine.
For this mattress topper roundup, we've tested everything from super king luxury mattress toppers to budget-friendly small double designs, trying big names like Simba, Silentnight and Panda London. Our testers looked at everything from airflow and moisture-wicking properties to how each topper handles contouring, firmness, and durability over time. Whether you’re a side sleeper who needs sink-in softness, a back sleeper craving medium-firm support, or just want that hotel-bed feel at home, these are the best mattress toppers to help you wake up comfy, supported, and ready for the day.
What is a mattress topper?
A mattress topper is essentially a removable layer that sits on top of your mattress, adding an extra dose of comfort or support (or both). It can completely change the feel of your bed – softening up something too firm, firming up a saggy mattress, or adding clever cooling tech if you run hot. Think of it as an instant upgrade without the commitment (or expense) of a whole new mattress.
What different types of mattress toppers are there?
- Memory foam toppers are great for giving you that extra bit of cushioning and support, and make a popular choice for those who struggle with aches and pains. This usually-medium/firm material moulds to the shape of your body, and offers pressure relief to back sleepers and stomach sleepers when they’re tossing and turning in the night. By comparison side sleepers will likely need a softer sleep surface to cradle their hips and shoulders more gently. It's worth noting also that memory foam can prove quite hot — so perhaps isn’t the best option if you’re prone to overheating. Check out our edit of the best cooling mattress toppers for hot sleepers instead.
- Hybrid toppers tend to mix a gel or foam layer with layers of latex and even springs, meaning they’re the most supportive topper type on the market. They tend to score well with testers and do a stellar job of transforming a lack-lustre mattress into something with a more luxurious feel. Though, they do tend to be the most expensive.
- Feather and down toppers are less about support, and more about softness. If you’re simply looking to adapt your firm mattress, then this kind of topper is the perfect choice. Plus, feather and down decompose more naturally once these type of toppers reach the end of their life. That said, it's disputed how environmentally friendly the process of obtaining feather and down fill actually is.
- Polyester blend toppers are typically far more affordable than feather and down ones, and similarly prioritise softness over support. They also make a great cloud-like layer for anyone with allergies, as they are typically hypoallergenic. Be gone, dust mites.
How we tested
Throughout the wider Glamour team, there's enough of us to have reviewed well over 25 different toppers, but these – the 11 ahead of you – are just our very favourites. We've tried them on everything from pocket sprung mattresses, mattresses for side sleepers, memory foam mattresses and cooling mattresses, and these final picks are our tried-and-tested favourites.
Why you should trust us
As a team of experts in our fields, be it interiors, lifestyle or fashion, we've done a turn (or twenty) around the retail block and know what we're looking for when it comes to your bed set up. We've got reviews on the best duvets, the best pillows for side sleepers, plus a whole bunch of explainers in the field (because, why are you tired all the time?) and we were raring to go when it came to testing the best mattress toppers.
After something else? Shop the best mattresses for side sleepers, the best mattresses for back pain (including hybrid mattress options) and the best silk pillowcase.
Ahead, our full edit and review of the best mattress toppers:
Specifications
- Sizes available: Single, small double, double, king, super king.
- Depth: 6.5cm.
- Fill material: Simbatex® foam and Aerocoil® springs.
- Guarantee: 10-year warranty and 200-night sleep trial.
Whether you know Simba for its best-selling hybrid mattress or for being one of the first to jump aboard the bed-in-a-box hype in 2015, the brand is undoubtedly now a household name in the bedroom sphere. Now, with everything from duvets to pillows and bed frames on offer, Simba has expanded tenfold in its ten years on the market – and its Hybrid topper shouldn't be put in the corner.
Deep, springy, and incredibly comfortable, this topper will have you feeling like you’re sleeping on a whole new mattress. Unlike a standard memory foam mattress topper, it’s got temperature-regulating technology — so you won't get too hot — and customers say it’s great if you struggle with hip or joint pain, too. One last thing? The Hybrid topper's unique Aerocoil® springs work to minimise motion transfer, meaning that your rustle-heavy bed partner won't be rustling you awake.
Save money on your new mattress topper with these Simba discount codes.
OUR RATING: 10/10Pros & ConsPros- Elasticated straps.
- Hypoallergenic.
- Temperature regulating.
Cons- Slight odour when first opened.
- On the higher price side.
Specifications
- Sizes available: Single, small double, double, king, super king.
- Depth: 9cm.
- Fill material: ThermoSync foam, adaptable HRX comfort foam, polyester, lyocell, elastane, polypropylene.
- Guarantee: 10-year guarantee and 100-night trial.
There's good reason for Emma's success; the brand is championing hybrid spring-foam sleep surfaces and many of us at team Glamour are big fans. In our round-up of the best mattresses, our tester noted, “I had been suffering with sporadic aches and pains and now, post-Emma, I feel looser, less strained and, most importantly, well rested.” With the brand's Premium Topper, the general customer consensus echoes the same relief with claims of restful nights and improved sleeping patterns.
For us, it's the temperature-regulating properties of this topper worth noting. Not only does the ThermoSync foam keep usually-hot sleepers cool, but the HRX comfort foam is pressure-relieving and the top of your mattress topper can be zipped away for easy cleaning. If your old spring mattress needs a foam upgrade for the ultimate DIY hybrid comfort, this now-on-sale Emma topper will be just the ticket.
OUR RATING: 9/10Pros & ConsPros- Machine washable.
- Flippable to prevent sagging.
- Unique foam-fill absorbs body heat, dispersing it to avoid sweats and clamminess.
Cons- Some mattress reviews from customers describe delivery delays.
Specifications
- Sizes available: Single, double, king, super king.
- Depth: Unspecified.
- Fill material: Smartfil® Microfibre.
- Guarantee: One year.
Layered for a cosy, hotel‑like feel, this topper cleverly combines two tiers of Smartfil® microfibre inside a soft-touch microfibre cover —offering both plushness and structure. The zip‑apart design means the top layer can be easily removed for machine washing (yes, even in a standard 8-9 kg washer), so refreshing your sleep setup is practically effortless. Plus, elastic corner straps, designed for mattresses up to 35 cm deep, keep it firmly in position — even if you’re a midnight wriggler.
As well as feeling indulgent, this one plays the practical part brilliantly: it’s hypoallergenic, breathable, and built to last — no shrinking softness after a few washes thanks to the Smartfil® tech. And it adds that extra cushioning layer, so you get comfort and durability in one tidy package. Low‑maintenance elegance at its best.
OUR RATING: 9/10Pros & ConsPros- Two-layer design for softness and structure.
- Removable top layer is machine-washable.
- Hypoallergenic Smartfil microfibre filling.
Cons- May feel warm for hot sleepers.
Specifications
- Sizes available: Single, small double, double, king, super king.
- Depth: 5cm.
- Fill material: Polyester.
- Guarantee: 30 days for faulty items.
For us, Dunelm is a go-to retailer for everything from the best cooling pillows at affordable prices – think: Dorma, Snuggledown… – to stylish duvet covers from designers like Matthew Williamson. Big names aside, Dunelm stocks an impressive collection of its own homewares, and its brand positioning as one of the ‘best budget’ home stores isn't something to turn your nose up at. Our team have had hands-on experience with both bedding and furniture from the brand, and you'd be surprised to discover the high-quality feel of even its least expensive pieces.
For instance, this Dunelm topper is well-worth considering. A purse-friendly way to level up your existing mattress or sofa bed, it provides just enough cushioning to cover up any lumps and springs, and will easily stay in place each night, thanks to the elasticated straps. Oh, and you can tumble dry it, too.
Save money on your new mattress topper with these Dunelm promo codes.
OUR RATING: 8/10Pros & ConsPros- Customers love the soft, cloud-like feel.
- Designed to minimise stress on pressure points.
- Machine washable.
Cons- Not as strong a choice for hot sleepers.
- Some testers found it isn't as long-lasting.
Specifications
- Sizes available: Single, small double, double, king, super king.
- Depth: 7cm.
- Fill material: Aerocoil® microsprings, foam.
- Guarantee: 10-year warranty and 200-night sleep trial.
No makeshift airpad, this high-tech topper layers up like a mini-mattress. Within its neat 7cm depth, it boasts a breathable Simbatex® foam layer engineered with open-cell structure and graphite infusion, teamed with up to 1,500 of Simba’s signature Aerocoil® microsprings for a responsive, cooling bounce-back feel – plus a structured, high-density foam base for stability. The whole lot is wrapped in a soft, zip-off cotton cover that washes at 40°C, with corner straps and an anti-slip base to keep everything confidently in place.
It’s not just about tactile luxury – this construction balances medium-firm support with breathable comfort, making it a nifty fix for mattresses that feel too marshmallow-soft or don't breathe. It’s also the more budget-friendly alternative to Simba’s premium topper, so you still get that clever hybrid tech without stretching the spend.
Machine-washable at 40°C, it’s a practical, low-maintenance way to upgrade your sleep set-up – and a significant step up from a thin, all-foam layer.
OUR RATING: 8/10Pros & ConsPros- Hybrid design with foam and microsprings for balanced support.
- Breathable Simbatex foam with graphite infusion for cooling.
- Removable cotton cover is machine-washable.
Cons- Nothing to see here.
Specifications
- Sizes available: Single, small double, double, king, super king, EU single, EU small double, EU double, EU king, EU super king.
- Depth: 5cm.
- Fill material: Hydro-foam™.
- Guarantee: 10-year warranty and 30-night trial.
If sourcing more environmentally friendly materials throughout your homewares and furnishings is top of your priorities, then Panda London needs to be on your radar. Specialising in bamboo-based bedroom supplies, Panda's ethos is based on the idea that bamboo production requires only a third of the amount of water needed compared to cotton farming. Its factories support ethical supply chains; the brand avoids single-use plastic at every turn; and, most importantly, its mattresses, toppers and various bedding accessories are up there with some of the best.
As for this topper specifically, it truly lives up to its orthopaedic claims — with customers reporting that it makes even the most uncomfortable of mattresses seem heavenly, and definitely helps alleviate any back, shoulder, or hip pain. Plus, it has a removable cover that's washable at 40°C.
OUR RATING: 7/10Pros & ConsPros- Gel-infused memory foam responds to body temperature to minimise sweat.
- Offers orthopaedic support.
- Hypoallergenic.
Cons- Elasticated straps can slip off.
Bamboo Mattress Topper With Charcoal
Specifications
- Sizes available: Single, double, king, super king.
- Depth: 5cm.
- Fill material: Bamboo and charcoal-infused memory foam.
- Guarantee: One year, 14-night sleep trial.
This topper packs a smart 5cm of open-cell memory foam, infused with bamboo and charcoal to deliver breathability, moisture-wicking coolness, and odour-neutralising comfort — all while staying relatively kind to your wallet. Despite memory foam's usual heat retention, the natural fusion of bamboo and charcoal keeps things notably fresher, whether you're dealing with hot flushes or the summer sweats. Plus, a grippy anti-slip base replaces fiddly straps, holding the topper snugly in place without tugging at your bedding.
Comfort-wise, it’s rated around a medium density (roughly 5.5 /10), offering just enough cushioning to revive a tired mattress without turning it into a marshmallow. The quilted cover stays smartly supportive, and although the foam isn't washable, the case pulls off for easy machine care. In cost-per-value terms, it's comfortably pitched below OTTY’s premium hybrid lines — so it's a clever, chic shortcut to that cushiony memory-foam feel without splashing out.
OUR RATING: 7/10Pros & ConsPros- Bamboo and charcoal-infused foam for breathability and freshness.
- Medium density for balanced cushioning.
- Removable cover is machine-washable.
Cons- Foam core is not washable.
Specifications
- Sizes available: Single, single XL, small double, double, king, super king, emperor, EU double, EU king, large emperor.
- Depth: 4-5cm.
- Fill material: 1000gsm of traceable British wool.
- Guarantee: 30-night sleep trial.
Insulating yet highly breathable, this all-natural topper harnesses 1,000 gsm of traceable British wool to keep you cool in summer and warm in winter. The lofty fill is encased in a 200-thread-count organic cotton cover, unbleached and chemical-free for a more natural night’s sleep. Deep 35 cm sides ensure a snug fit, even on taller mattresses, while the soft, quilted finish gives it a plush, sink-in feel without sacrificing support.
As well as regulating temperature, the wool filling is naturally hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites, mould and mildew, making it a strong choice for allergy sufferers. It’s entirely free from synthetics and chemical flame retardants, relying on the inherent fire-resistant qualities of wool. While it’s dry-clean only, regular airing will keep it fresh and lofty, meaning minimal upkeep for maximum comfort.
OUR RATING: 7/10Pros & ConsPros- Traceable British wool regulates temperature year-round.
- Naturally hypoallergenic and chemical-free.
- Organic cotton cover is breathable.
Cons- Dry-clean only – higher maintenance than most.
Silentnight Airmax Mattress Topper
Specifications
- Sizes available: Single, double, king size, super king.
- Depth: 5cm.
- Fill material: Polyester hollowfibre filling.
- Guarantee: Two years.
If your existing mattress is 90% of the way there and just needs a little helping hand then the Silentnight Airmax mattress pad might be just what you're looking for. The brand is an affordable go-to for all things duvets, fitted sheets and bedding, and customers are consistently impressed with its products' high-quality feel (without setting you back financially).
As for the Airmax, it has a soft level of firmness, features dual construction and mesh sides for one of the best cooling feels (hot sleepers, rejoice!), and is non-allergenic, too. With prices starting at sub-£40, this mattress topper isn't going to revive an old springs-poking-through type of mattress, but it will add a squishy quilted extra layer of comfort to firmer sleep surfaces. Likewise, it may not be the type of topper to see you through 30-plus years – polyester and other synthetic fabrics just aren't as long-lasting – but it's certainly a top pick for new students and late 20-somethings in their first homes.
Save money on our top picks from Glamour mattress topper reviews with these Argos discount codes.
OUR RATING: 7/10Pros & ConsPros- Soft finish suits those with a preference for side sleeping positions.
- Affordable price point.
- Boasts breathable airmesh sides.
- Washable cover.
Cons- Some testers commented that the sizes are modest and don't quite reach the edge of some beds.
Hungarian Goose Feather & Down Mattress Topper
Specifications
- Sizes available: Single, double, king, super king.
- Depth: 7cm.
- Fill material: Feather and down.
- Guarantee: One year.
Here, a sumptuous 7cm of responsibly sourced Hungarian goose feathers (85%) and down (15%) is tucked into a baffle-box design, framed by crisp, double-stitched squares that guarantee even loft and support. It’s wrapped in a 233-thread-count down-proof cotton cover — not just cosy, but breathable too, circulating air far better than synthetic alternatives. Clever corner straps ensure it stays in place, even where night fidgets are concerned.
The topper doesn’t just feel indulgent — this one works hard for its luxe credentials. It’s naturally moisture-wicking, dust-mite resistant, hypoallergenic and free from nasty chemicals, sporting certifications like Nomite, OEKO-TEX® Standard 100, Downafresh and Responsible Down Standard for verified safety and ethical sourcing. A quick shake and rotation refreshes the loft, while a gentle spot clean or biannual professional wash keeps it pristine. Consider this a soft indulgence with serious substance.
OUR RATING: 7/10Pros & ConsPros- Luxury blend of goose feather and down for softness and support.
- Breathable cotton cover with baffle-box stitching.
- Ethically sourced and hypoallergenic.
Cons- Dry-clean only.
TheraPur ActiGel® Cool Mattress Topper
Specifications
- Sizes available: Single, double, king, super king.
- Depth: 4.4cm.
- Fill material: ActiGel® foam.
- Guarantee: One year.
This smart mattress topper is all about giving your bed a serious comfort boost. At 4.4 cm deep, the zoned ActiGel foam works to ease pressure points, particularly around the hips and shoulders, while adding a layer of support that helps keep the spine aligned. It’s a slightly firmer feel than some toppers, but that structure means you won’t sink right through it – ideal for refreshing a mattress that’s lost its oomph while you save for a new one. The ActiGel itself is cleverly engineered to be breathable, so it doesn’t trap heat the way traditional foam can.
The cover is just as considered. It’s hypoallergenic, soft to the touch, and designed to wick away moisture for a cooler, fresher night’s sleep. Four elasticated straps keep it neatly in place, even if you’re a restless sleeper, and when it needs a freshen up, the cover zips off and goes straight in the machine at 30°C – practical and polished in one.
OUR RATING: 7/10Pros & ConsPros- Breathable ActiGel foam helps regulate temperature.
- Hypoallergenic and moisture-wicking cover.
- Machine-washable removable cover.
Cons- No notes from us.
Mattress topper FAQs
What is the best mattress topper for back pain?
One that offers targeted support, keeping your spine aligned while cushioning pressure points. Memory foam is often a go-to here, especially in medium-firm densities, but hybrids with foam and pocket springs can work brilliantly too. The key is finding something that moulds to your shape without letting you sink too far, so you’re supported rather than slouched. If you take your sleep (and your spinal alignment) seriously, it's worth looking to brands like Simba, Emma, and OTTY, who are known and loved for their high-tech mattresses, as opposed to bedding.
How do you clean a mattress topper?
Cleaning a mattress topper depends on the material, but most have removable covers that can be machine washed, which is the easiest way to keep things fresh. For non-washable fillings, a gentle vacuum and spot cleaning will lift dust and marks, while regular airing helps keep it feeling crisp. Always check the care label – wool, and feather and down products will need a little extra TLC.
How do you stop a mattress topper from sliding?
To stop a mattress topper from sliding, elasticated corner straps and anti-slip bases are your best friends. If yours doesn’t have either, a deep fitted sheet over both the topper and mattress can help keep it in place, or you could invest in a non-slip underlay. The right fit is important too – a topper that properly matches your mattress size will shift less overnight.
How thick should a mattress topper be?
The sweet spot for thickness depends on why you’re buying one, but most fall between 4 and 8 cm. Thinner toppers (around 4 cm) are great for a subtle comfort boost, while anything thicker can transform the feel of your bed entirely. Just remember: more height isn’t always better – it needs to work with, not against, your mattress.
Can a mattress topper really keep you cool?
Yes, a mattress topper can help keep you cool, but it’s all in the materials. Gel-infused foams, breathable latex, natural fillings like wool or silk, and open-cell designs all help regulate temperature and wick away moisture. If you overheat at night, steer clear of dense, heat-trapping foams and look for something with genuine airflow.
What thickness of mattress topper should I get?
Most mattress toppers measure somewhere between 2 and 9cm deep — so, once you’ve decided on the filling, it’s time to think about the thickness. And there are a couple of things worth considering:
- The level of support you’re looking for should play a key role in helping you decide on the depth of your mattress topper. It varies with each material, but generally speaking, the thicker it is, the more support a mattress topper will provide.
- The age and condition of your mattress are also important. For a relatively new mattress with minimal signs of wear and tear, a thinner topper will probably provide you with adequate extra cushioning. But if you’re working with an older mattress that’s no longer all that comfortable, a thicker topper that covers up any springs or signs of sagging will probably be more appropriate.
Still concerned that you might end up picking the wrong topper? Don’t worry — luckily, most mattress toppers now come with trial periods or a year warranty, if not 10. So, if it doesn’t live up to your desires, you’ll probably be able to return it free of charge. And, we've marked which mattress toppers have these lovely trials and warranties, as well, so you'll be in the know pre-purchase.
What is the difference between a mattress topper and a mattress protector?
Although online retailers often put them in the same category, mattress toppers and mattress protectors are actually completely different products. As the name suggests, a mattress protector is less about transforming your mattress feel or alleviating your pressure points – and more about ensuring that it stays in the best possible condition for longer. A mattress protector is essentially a machine-washable cover (often a cotton cover), that protects from spills, stains, dust and other dirt and allergens.
