Mattress toppers come in a variety of materials, sizes, and levels of thickness. Toppers are available in a range of depths from less than one inch to eight inches. While it might seem that a thicker topper will be more comfortable, that’s not always the case for everyone. Personal preferences and needs are important factors that drive the decision to purchase a particular type of mattress topper. Learn more about how a thicker mattress topper can affect the feel of your bedding.
What is a Mattress Topper?
A mattress topper is a bedding component placed on top of an existing mattress. Thicker than a mattress pad, a topper is intended to add comfort to an existing mattress, whether at home or while traveling. Some people even use toppers to create their own “DIY mattresses.” Toppers are a more affordable alternative than buying a new mattress or bed. A topper can help revive the comfort of an aging mattress or tweak a newer mattress that’s either too soft or too firm.
Types of Mattress Toppers
Mattress toppers are made from several types of materials, including hybrid styles that combine more than one base material. The most common types of toppers are made from latex, memory foam, wool, and feather down. Each type of material has benefits and drawbacks depending on what you’re hoping to achieve with a topper.
Thinner vs. Thicker Mattress Toppers
The thickness of a mattress topper can affect the experience of overall comfort to a point. Thicker mattress toppers tend to feel plusher and offer more “give” for a body to rest upon comfortably. However, this doesn’t automatically mean that a thicker topper will be more comfortable for you, nor does it mean that thinner mattress toppers are less so. A too-thick topper may not feel comfortable to everyone, particularly those who prefer a firmer sleeping surface.
The base materials of a topper and the reason why you’re purchasing it are other factors to consider. For example, due to its natural elasticity and support, latex mattress toppers offer comfort even at thinner depths like two or three inches. Therefore, even a thinner latex topper can offer similar comfort to that of a thicker feather or foam topper.
According to SF Gate, if you’re looking for a softer topper with a more luxurious feel that you can sink into, a thicker topper in whatever material you’re seeking may be your best choice. If you prefer a firmer sleeping surface, then a thinner topper might be best for you. Check out our post about how to decide between a thinner or thicker mattress topper.
Choosing the Best Mattress Topper for Your Needs
As you can see, there are many options available to customize your bedding. While no single type of topper can meet everyone’s needs, there are factors you can weigh when deciding which topper to buy. What you decide upon depends on your unique priorities and needs, including your budget and desire for sustainable products. You’ll also want to accommodate any physical conditions or needs, such as sleep apnea, pregnancy, or chronic pain. Rather than focusing on the thickness of a mattress topper, consider your priorities and needs to set yourself up for a comfortable night’s sleep.
