Our guide to helping you choose the best level of firmness in a latex mattress topper

Ask anyone about their ideal sleep situation and you’ll get a different answer from each person. Many factors go into crafting comfy sleeping conditions — bedroom temperature, bed size, mattress type, the number of blankets and pillows, the thread count of sheets, etc.

If your mattress is less than ideal, a mattress topper is a great way to add comfort and/or support. When it comes to choosing a latex mattress topper, one key factor to consider is the level of firmness that it offers. Most manufacturers (including Naturally Nestled) offer different levels of firmness ranging from soft (offering more “give”) to firm (offering more support).

Some fast facts about latex mattress toppers

Both all-natural and organic latex are ideal for enhancing sleep comfort. Known for its elastic properties, latex offers a good balance between contouring and support. Also, unlike memory foam, latex doesn’t require body heat in order to contour to the body, and it’s a cooler sleeping surface than foam.

Here are some factors to consider when deciding on the level of firmness in a latex mattress topper.

The current condition of your mattress

People choose mattress toppers for a variety of reasons. Some are happy with their newer mattress but want to add a bit of firmness or cushion. Conversely, some might want to add comfort without having to replace an older mattress.

If your current mattress is newer but doesn’t quite meet your needs, then opt for a topper that will bridge that gap. For example, pair a too-firm mattress with a topper rated “soft” and a too-soft mattress with one with a higher firmness level to achieve a better comfort level.

For an older mattress that’s losing its firmness, opt for a medium or firm latex mattress topper to lend more support. Keep in mind that a mattress topper can only do so much to bolster mattresses that are very old or in poor condition. In general, however, a medium or firm latex mattress topper can offer greater support to an older mattress.

Sleep position

Side sleepers

The shoulders and hips create pressure points for side sleepers that require contouring for ideal comfort. Look for a medium-to-soft firmness level in a latex mattress topper. To learn more, check out our guide to choosing a latex topper for side sleepers.

As a side note, The Cleveland Clinic suggests that body shape can also determine which firmness level to select. People with hips wider than their waist should go with a softer firmness level, while those with narrower hips will find better support by choosing a firmer sleep surface.

Stomach sleepers

Sleeping on your stomach can be challenging over time because it can strain both your neck and lower back. But sometimes, the sleeping body wants what it wants. Stomach sleepers may find improved comfort by choosing a medium-to-firm latex mattress topper.

Back sleepers

According to another article by The Cleveland Clinic, sleeping on your back is easier on your spine than other positions. However, people who sleep on their backs sometimes do report lower back pain. This can sometimes be due to a too-firm mattress. Look for a latex mattress topper in the medium-to-soft firmness range to strike the right balance.

Health conditions

Other factors to consider include health conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, or back pain. For chronic pain, some extra softness and “give” in terms of contouring may soothe achy body parts that need relief from a too-firm mattress.

Whatever your preferred sleeping position or current health conditions, consult your doctor if you’re frequently experiencing pain either during sleep or after waking.

Personal preference

As we mentioned above, sleep preferences are highly individual. If you’ve always preferred a firmer or softer bed, then go with that. If you’re ready for something new, then maybe it’s time for a bedding refresh.

When it comes to latex mattress toppers, quality counts

Just as all mattresses aren’t created equally, the same goes for latex mattress toppers. Look for quality construction and a money-back guarantee and warranty. Also, make sure that your topper is made from either 100% natural or organic latex, without cheap fillers that can reduce its quality.

Interested in purchasing a latex mattress topper? Browse our selection of natural and organic latex mattress toppers.