What is a mattress topper? And do you need one?
If you're reading this article, it seems like you're considering buying a mattress topper.
Before you do, there are a few things to know and consider to make sure you are getting the right product for you.
What does a mattress topper do?
Firstly, mattress toppers and mattress protectors or covers are different things. A mattress topper is primarily to provide additional comfort on top of a firm mattress (or an old mattress that has lost some of its spring or shape).
It can extent the life of your existing mattress and delay having to purchase a brand new mattress (which can be an expensive exercise). A mattress protector, cover, or mattress pad will protect your mattress from dust mites, dirt and moisture.
Do you need a mattress topper?
You might decide a mattress topper is worth the investment if you are finding your existing mattress too firm and uncomfortable to sleep on.
You might be suffering from lack of support, or looking to relieve pressure as you sleep - which a mattress topper can help with.
As mattress toppers provide an extra layer of comfort and support, they can also be used to prolong the life of a sagging mattress.
If you're looking to kill two birds with one stone, you might consider buying a mattress topper that is machine washable - allowing you to extend both the life of your topper and the life of your mattress.
What type of mattress topper is best?
Mattress toppers can be made from a number of different materials.
One of the more popular modern materials for mattress toppers is memory foam. Memory foam mattress toppers and gel infused memory foam toppers are made from man-made materials, and while they have many benefits, these mattress toppers can feel synthetic and strange.
Latex toppers are another man-made material used to make mattress toppers. Similar to memory foam, this material has a number of benefits - but it cannot be used by people who suffer from latex allergies. The cheapest mattress toppers are polyester blend toppers. While they are machine washable, their life span is very short and they are often not particularly breathable or hygenic.
Down toppers are one of the most expensive mattress toppers. While they are a natural material, they are prone to lumping on either side as they age. They are also more challenging to clean and keep from developing a strange smell.
In our opinion, the best mattress topper money can buy is a wool topper. Made from natural materials, wool toppers are breathable - helping you regulate your body temperature and get a good night's sleep.
They are also resistant to dust mites and can be machine washed - making them very hygenic and hypoallergenic. Many describe the feeling of sleeping on a wool topper much like sleeping on a cloud - they are incredibly soft, yet still able to provide that extra support and pressure relief that many customers are looking for. If you're looking for luxurious comfort combined with practical sensibility - look no further than one of our wool mattress toppers.
Can you use a mattress topper as a mattress?
We would not recommend using a mattress topper as a mattress. Mattress toppers are designed specifically to be used in conjunction with an existing mattress - to provide extra comfort and additional support on top of what a mattress provides. Using a mattress topper as a mattress would not only be quite uncomfortable (as there would be no extra cushioning from a mattress), but temperature regulation would also be compromised as it would struggle to retain heat.
Always combine a mattress topper with a mattress to ensure it does exactly what it is supposed to do - provide added support, softness and extra comfort. You should also be adding a flat or fitted sheet to ensure you get the best sleep possible. Always read the care instructions before buying a mattress topper to ensure it goes the distance.
Interested in buying a Wool Mattress Topper from LUXOTIC?
Our mattress toppers come in a range of mattress sizes designed to fit Australian sized beds - check the size chart to make sure you buy the right topper for your mattress. Simply add the topper to your shopping basket and checkout easily with a range of payment options to suit your needs.
