A thin, two-to-four-inch layer placed atop your mattress, a mattress topper, can breathe new life into a worn or uncomfortable bed. Made from memory foam, latex, feathers, or wool, it adds an extra layer of comfort and support.
Choosing the right size is crucial. A poorly-sized topper might bunch up or hang over the edge, compromising its effectiveness.
In this article, we'll explore why mattress toppers are worth buying, delve into the different sizes available, and equip you with the knowledge to choose the perfect one for your mattress.
Why Purchase A Mattress Topper?
- Extend the mattress's life: Adding a mattress topper to your existing mattress can extend its lifespan, giving you a little more time before investing in a new mattress.
- Offers more comfort: Toppers give an extra layer of comfort to your current mattress, changing it into a cozy surface for a good night's sleep. They adjust to your resting posture, guaranteeing that you awake refreshed and revitalized.
- Adds a layer of support: If you wake up with back discomfort, it might be an indication that your mattress isn't giving you enough support. A mattress topper can provide an additional layer of padding to reduce pressure points and improve back discomfort.
- Temperature Regulation Issues: If you wake up too hot or too cold at night, a temperature-regulating mattress topper can assist. To keep the heat away, look for breathable fabrics that improve ventilation or cooling mattress toppers.
- Cost Efficient: When purchasing a new mattress is not a necessity, investing in a quality mattress topper is an excellent way to increase the comfort of an older mattress, there is a wide selection of mattress toppers available with cheaper payment options, which is a very budget-friendly option for a comfier sleep.
Choosing the Appropriate Mattress Topper Size
- Mattress size: You must first know your mattress size by measuring its height and breadth, then look up the relevant size in the chart you will find in the section below, and then choose a mattress topper of the same size.
- Body weight: If you weigh 230 pounds or less, a mattress topper at least 2 inches thick is recommended for added cushioning. However, if you are heavier, we recommend obtaining a 3-inch thick mattress topper for more support.
- Budget: The materials used in the creation of a topper will determine its cost. A memory foam mattress topper, for example, will always be less expensive than a natural latex topper. Different mattress topper kinds are priced differently.
Mattress Topper Sizes
| Bed Size | Dimensions | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Twin | 75" x 38" x 2.75" | 25 lbs. |
| Twin XL | 80" x 38" x 2.75" | 27 lbs. |
| Full | 75" x 54" x 2.75" | 30 lbs. |
| Queen | 80" x 60" x 2.75" | 37 lbs. |
| King | 80" x 76" x 2.75" | 46 lbs |
| California king | 84" x 72" x 2.75" | 46 lbs |
Twin
Measuring 38 inches by 75 inches, the twin mattress topper is the smallest and most affordable option. Ideal for smaller spaces like children's bedrooms, it's also the most popular bunk bed mattress size.
However, it's important to note that twin toppers aren't spacious enough for adults to sleep comfortably. To ensure adequate legroom for taller sleepers, it's best to choose a larger size.
Twin XL
Measuring 38" x 80", a twin XL mattress topper offers a lot of benefits while remaining space-saving. Ideal for children and teenagers, it can significantly enhance their sleep experience, especially in college dorm rooms where twin XL mattresses are standard.
However, its limitations are shared with twin toppers. While perfect for growing sleepers, its compact size might feel restrictive for adults seeking full stretch and movement freedom.
Full
Stepping up in size, a full mattress topper measures 54" x 75" and is ideal for solo sleepers seeking ample space. Its compact footprint makes it suitable even for small to medium bedrooms.
While full mattresses can accommodate a child or pet, they're not quite roomy enough for two adults. So, if you share your bed with a partner, you'll want to consider a larger size.
Queen
Measuring 60″ x 80″, a queen-size mattress topper is the most popular choice for both solo sleepers and couples, offering an excellent balance of affordability and ample sleep surface. More budget-friendly than king-size options, it also ensures couples won't feel cramped, providing a perfectly comfortable sleeping space.
King
Measuring 76 inches wide by 80 inches long, the king-size is the largest conventional option, offering more space for couples to move around and adjust their sleeping positions in ultimate comfort. While king-size toppers tend to be on the higher end of the price spectrum, the spaciousness and luxurious sleep experience they provide for couples might be worth the investment.
California King
The California king mattress topper measures 72′′ x 84′′ and is the largest mattress topper size.
California King toppers are a terrific size for individuals who want the extra space that a king-sized topper gives but with the added extra room at your feet. Perfect for tall individuals or those with dogs that like to dominate the space at the foot of the bed.
It's a luxurious alternative that can fit most couples, especially those who are taller than normal.
Mattress Toppers for Each Sleeping Position
| Sleeping Position | Thickness | Pressure Relief | Firmness | Latex or memory foam |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Back Sleeping | A thin mattress that is at least two to three inches thick to avoid sinking too far into the bed. | Back Sleepers need a firmer sleeping surface to maintain proper alignment and feel the pressure relief. | Choose a mattress topper with a high firmness level to ensure ample support and prevent excessive sinking of the hips. | Memory foam and latex, like all other sleeping positions, can benefit back sleepers as they disperse the weight across |
| Side Sleeping | A thin mattress with little cushioning puts strain on the hips and shoulders. To keep your spine as straight as possible, we recommend a thick topper | Your mattress topper's pressure relief should be adequate to guarantee that your spine is properly aligned and that pressure from your hips and shoulders is relieved. | For side sleepers, a soft to medium-soft mattress topper is appropriate. | Memory foam or latex mattress toppers are ideal for side sleepers. These materials will be strong enough to support your body weight, and they can even aid sleep rotation since the softer foams mold to your body shape and assist spine straightening. |
| Stomach Sleeping | An overly thick mattress topper can cause the back to arch unnaturally, leading to discomfort and potential issues over time. Thus, a thinner topper, around one to two inches thick, is recommended for stomach sleepers. | Stomach Sleeping requires a delicate balance to maintain proper alignment and feel enough pressure relief. | Opt for a firm topper to provide adequate support and prevent the hips from sinking too low. | Memory foam or latex mattress toppers can both be suitable choices for stomach sleepers, as they offer firm support while still conforming to the body's shape for comfort. |
FAQs
Can a full mattress be fitted with a Twin XL mattress topper?
No, a Twin XL topper is too narrow to cover a Full mattress properly, leaving exposed edges. Choose a topper that matches your mattress size for optimal coverage.
If I have a mattress topper, should I get larger sheets?
Maybe, toppers typically add 1-4 inches, so if yours is thicker than 1 inch, a larger fitted sheet might be needed to avoid annoying bunching.
What additional height does a mattress topper add in inches?
Toppers range from 1-4 inches in height, so factor this in when buying, especially if your mattress is already thicker than average.
Does a mattress topper need to fit perfectly?
Yes, a well-fitting topper enhances comfort and prevents slipping. If it is too big It'll bunch and if it is too small you'll stretch it, potentially affecting its performance.
Is purchasing a thicker mattress topper preferable?
Pick your perfect topper thickness based on how you want to transform your mattress's feel. For a touch of comfort or reduced firmness, a thinner topper will do the trick, while a thicker one tackles bigger changes in comfort and support.
Conclusion
By adding a mattress topper, you may increase the comfort of your bed while also extending its lifespan. With varied levels of firmness and sizes to suit all sleepers, mattress toppers are great solutions for those who want a more comfortable sleep at a cheaper price.
Dom Abraham
As the lead content writer at Sleepiverse. Dom pours his heart into writing mattress reviews, bedding product reviews, and medically-reviewed health articles. Dom is from Portugal and likes to spend his free time writing on the beach as it gives him a sense of comfort. Aside from writing mattress reviews in front of the soothing beach view, Dom likes to experiment with new amazing food ideas.