Soft vs Firm Mattress Topper: Which is Right for You?

If you have trouble sleeping at night because of your aging mattress and you’re not ready to buy a new mattress yet, a soft mattress topper is what you need. This component will offer you extra support, more comfort, and even regulate your body temperature while you sleep.

There are multiple types of mattress toppers and each one serves a different purpose. A mattress topper can soften a firm mattress or firm up a soft mattress, depending on what you need. A good quality mattress topper can even help extend your mattress lifespan by adding a few years to it. It won’t work miracles and make obvious sags or lumps invisible, but it will cover light signs of use and give an extra level of comfort.

What Is A Mattress Topper?

As the name suggests, a mattress topper is an extra layer that is placed on top of a mattress. It can be a great addition to your sleep setup, providing extra cushioning and support. A soft mattress topper won’t return your mattress to its golden age but it is definitely a temporary fix if your mattress is no longer as supportive as it used to be.

Mattress toppers vary in thickness and densities and are manufactured using multiple materials, such as memory foam, latex, polyester, wool, and more.

Difference Between A Mattress Topper, Pad, and Protector?

Each bedding item has a distinct function and a mattress topper is different from a mattress pad or a mattress protector. For example, a mattress protector is used solely for protecting your mattress. It is hypoallergenic and protects against stains, allergens, dust mites, bed bugs, or anything else from getting into the mattress.

A mattress pad on the other hand, often functions as both a mattress protector and mattress topper. It provides light comfort, but not as much as a soft mattress topper, and protects the mattress as well. A mattress pad is usually a thin layer while a mattress topper is thicker for extra support. However, both a mattress pad and a mattress topper are terms that are used interchangeably.

The best sleep set-up would be to get a mattress topper and cover it with a mattress protector. This will ensure your mattress topper stays in place as well as get protection against bed bugs, dust mites, or other allergens. Remember to get a mattress protector with elastic pockets to stretch over your mattress and the mattress topper.

Unsure whether an mattress pad or mattress topper is right for you? Check out our mattress pad vs mattress topper comparison.

The Different Types Of Mattress Toppers

There are many types of mattress toppers, each one has its own pros and cons. The mattress topper you need will depend on what you’re looking for in a mattress topper. Are you looking to soften your mattress? Do you need something to relieve your back pain? The right mattress topper will depend on your weight, sleeping position, and firmness preference.

We’ve put together a list of the most popular types of mattress toppers to help you choose:

Memory Foam Mattress Toppers

Memory foam mattress toppers are the most popular there is, because of their variety in density and viscosity. Memory foam’s unique ability for body-adaption makes it a great voice for those with arthritis, sore joints, or back pain. They provide significant body support and comfort as well as have great durability. Other benefits of memory foam mattress toppers include low motion transfer, so your sleep won’t be disturbed if your partner turns and tosses a lot.

A downside to many memory foam mattress toppers is that they have high heat retention, which means they absorb your body’s heat and can lead to night sweats. However, there are types of memory foam that have solved this by infusing cooling properties. The different types of memory foam toppers are:

• Standard memory foam toppers: The standard memory foam topper is a medium-firm one that conforms to your body. It can cover slight mattress imperfections and can add to a mattress lifespan.
• Cooling gel-infused memory foam toppers: This topper is great for hot sleepers, as it includes a cooling gel that regulates your body temperature and ensures you remain cool while sleeping. It also promotes better air circulation, which prevents it from absorbing moisture and producing mold and bacteria. This helps prolong the topper’s durability and so, they’re more expensive than standard memory foam toppers.
• Polyfoam toppers: Polyfoam is different from memory foam because it doesn’t have the added chemicals that give memory foam its density. As a result, it has a lower density and will flatten faster than the other foam toppers. Polyfoam toppers have more bounce than memory foam and are the cheapest option.
• Egg-crate memory foam toppers: These toppers feature a unique convoluted design, that offers pressure point relief, body contouring, and provides support. Mostly, they’re made with premium memory foam and are slightly more expensive than other foam options.

Latex Mattress Toppers

Natural latex is a component extracted from rubber trees and manufactured into mattresses and bedding items, like mattress toppers. Similar to memory foam, latex toppers provide comfort and support but are notably more expensive. They have a firm texture and are usually used to firm a soft mattress. Natural latex toppers are hypoallergenic, very durable, eliminate motion transfer, and are breathable allowing for even airflow circulation.

Alternatively, synthetic latex toppers are made from synthetic rubber, such as petroleum compounds. Synthetic latex is less expensive than natural latex, so if you’re looking for an eco-friendly option, you need to make sure the label says natural latex. Additionally, latex toppers may have a rubber smell for the first few nights.

Polyester/ Microfiber Mattress Toppers

This soft mattress topper is a budget-friendly option that is usually used for a plush feel and to soften a firm mattress. They are made from a synthetic material like polyester and are hypoallergenic, this material is usually used in comforters, pillows, and bedding accessories. Also known as fiberfill, this plush mattress topper will conform to your body and provide an extra layer of cushioning. Most fiberfill mattress toppers are machine washable, unlike other toppers where you can just wash the cover.

Natural Down Mattress Toppers

Natural down or feather mattress toppers are known for their fluffiness, they are ultra-plush - possibly the softest mattress topper - but provide little support. This soft mattress topper doesn’t retain heat so you don’t need to worry about overheating if you’re a hot sleeper.

Down mattress toppers are less expensive than memory foam and latex toppers. However, they have low durability because the feathers compress over time. You’ll need to regularly shake it for it to keep its puffiness. Feather mattress toppers are not hypoallergenic and are hard to care for, they can only be dry cleaned so it will be difficult to remove stains. We recommend you buy a mattress protector with this topper.

Wool Mattress Toppers

Natural wool mattress toppers are rare to find on the market, and so they’re expensive. This soft mattress topper is usually a lightweight, thin layer. It has natural materials that provide unique temperature control, making it a decent option throughout the year.

During the winter, it has high heat retention and will be warm but in summer, it promotes airflow and will keep you cool while sleeping.

However, since it is a natural material and doesn’t have any added chemicals, it isn’t hypoallergenic and has a sheep-like odor to it that can last for a few weeks when unpacked.

What To Look For In A Mattress Topper?

Now that we’ve covered the many different types of mattress toppers, picking a mattress topper may be confusing. Let’s go through everything you need to consider when buying a mattress topper so that you can find the perfect fit for you.

1. Mattress Topper Budget

Mattress topper prices can range from $100 up to $500, depending on the type of mattress topper, mattress size, and manufacturer. However, the higher the price is doesn’t necessarily mean the higher the quality.

Some high-end mattress toppers will include wool, feathers, and latex toppers. For a more budget-friendly option, check out memory foam (especially egg-crate and polyfoam), cotton, or polyester mattress toppers.

2. Support & Pain Relief

Are you looking for body support or just something that feels softer? A soft mattress topper should conform to your body and promote healthy spinal alignment. Some mattress topper materials are better than others. For example, if you have back pain, then a memory foam mattress topper is for you. It’ll contour your body and relieve key pressure points.

But if you suffer from chronic pain, a mattress topper may not fix your problem and you may need to consider buying a new mattress. A mattress topper is supposed to improve your sleep, but it won’t fix health issues.

3. Softness vs. Firmness

One person’s comfort level is different from another, whether you want a firm mattress topper or a soft one - it all comes down to quality, thickness, and density. If you’re looking for a natural plush feel and don’t need it to mold your body, you can consider wool or down mattress toppers.

Unfortunately, if you’re buying the mattress topper from a store, there isn’t a way to test it on your mattress. We suggest buying a mattress topper that has a long trial period so that you can sleep on it in your home and make sure it’s comfortable. Puffy, for example, offers a 101-night trial period on all of our products - take your time getting comfy, no rush!

4. Reducing Motion Transfer

If your partner tosses and turns all night, the right mattress topper can do wonders for you. Memory foam and latex toppers are the best options to eliminate motion transfer and ensure you get undisturbed sleep.

5. Allergies

If you suffer from allergies, it is best to ensure that your mattress topper is hypoallergenic. Some mattress toppers like memory foam or natural latex toppers are anti-bacterial and don’t trigger allergies. But other materials like wool or feather mattress toppers, aren’t hypoallergenic and can trigger your allergies at night.

What Is The Best Soft Mattress Topper?

The best soft mattress topper is one that has the perfect balance of comfort and support. Other features should include cooling properties, thickness, and a high-density structure. Puffy’s soft mattress topper offers comfort and full body support to all sleepers, no matter what their sleeping position is.

This soft mattress topper prevents overheating, which is great for hot sleepers. It features bamboo, a temperature-regulating and breathable cooling material. Our topper is available in two variables, a firm or soft feel. The firm mattress topper will provide medium-firm support and ultimate comfort, ensuring your body doesn’t sink in while sleeping. The soft mattress topper offers a plush cloud-like feel, which cradles your body and relieves any strain or stiffness.

It is a hypoallergenic and antibacterial mattress topper that keeps out dust mites, bed bugs, and reduces the spread of allergens. Offering long-lasting durability, this soft or firm mattress topper is suitable for heavy sleepers and is available in all mattress sizes. The topper is wrapped in a machine washable cover and features an anti-slip grip layer at the base to keep it from sliding or moving.

FAQ

How can I make my mattress softer?

If you have a firm mattress, you can make it softer by using a soft mattress topper. A mattress topper provides comfort and extra support to sleepers. It can also add a few years to your mattress lifespan. The ideal mattress topper should be medium plush and easily conform to your body.

What is the softest mattress topper material?

The softest mattress topper is the natural down mattress topper, also known as a featherbed. It is made from geese or duck feathers and has an ultra-plush feel. If you suffer from arthritis or back pain, this topper may be too soft for you.

Is a thicker mattress topper softer?

The softness of a mattress topper depends on the type, quality, and density of the topper - as well as the thickness. A soft mattress topper that provides the perfect level of comfort would usually have a thickness that ranges from 3 to 4 inches.

Are mattress toppers firm or soft?

The firmness of a mattress topper differs from one type to another. For example, wool or natural down mattress toppers are ultra plush while memory foam and latex toppers are medium firm. It is best to choose the mattress topper firmness based on your needs and preferences. Are you looking for a mattress topper to soften your mattress or firm it?

How long do mattress toppers last?

A high-quality mattress topper should last from 3 to 10 years, depending on the quality and type of mattress topper. Latex and memory foam mattress toppers have the longest lifespan while natural down mattress toppers have the shortest.

What is the difference between a mattress topper and a mattress pad?

Both terms are used interchangeably. However, a mattress pad is a thin layer that offers light comfort but no support while a mattress topper is thicker and offers extra support and comfort. Unlike a mattress pad, a mattress topper can change the feel of your mattress.

Looking For A Better Alternative? We’ve Got It.

If you’re having trouble sleeping or suffer from body aches, a mattress topper is a temporary solution that can help you for a few years. But with the aging of your mattress, the harder it’ll be to get quality sleep.

It might be time for you to upgrade your sleeping experience and replace your old mattress. Mattresses can be expensive, especially if you buy one in-store. However, online mattress companies regularly have sales and discounted prices. You can find the best mattress online as well as unmatched trial periods and free returns - it’s a risk-free purchase!

Tip: When shopping for a mattress, keep an eye out for holidays for the latest sales - better yet, shop the best Black Friday mattress deals online.