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8 Best Memory Foam Mattress Toppers, Tested by Experts

Feel like you're sleeping on a cloud thanks to these comfortable, pressure-relieving picks.

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memory foam mattress toppers
saatva

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We revised this guide with current information and added new picks from Saatva and ViscoSoft in April 2023.


If your current bed isn't quite giving you the sleep you've been dreaming about, there's no need to buy an entirely new mattress to achieve a restful night of slumber. Instead, consider adding a mattress topper. Whether you prefer a firm or plush sleeping surface, are a hot sleeper or are seeking pain relief, there are plenty of memory foam mattress toppers that can provide the exceptional comfort, pressure relief and support you need.

At the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab, we regularly evaluate bedding of all kinds — from mattresses to pillows to sheets — and in recent years, we've put over 45 different mattress toppers and pads to the test. To choose the best memory foam mattress toppers, we first research offerings from popular, top-performing brands, considering materials and features. We then assess the toppers in the Lab and share them with consumer testers who try them out at home and provide us with real-user feedback about their sleep experiences. The picks ahead, listed with prices for Queen sizes, include top-tested models and toppers from brands that have performed well in our evaluations.

Our top picks:

  • 1
    TEMPUR-Adapt Topper

    Best Overall Memory Foam Mattress Topper

    Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Adapt Topper

    $251 at Tempur-Pedic
    Read more
  • 2
    Gel Swirl Memory Foam Mattress Topper

    Best Value Memory Foam Mattress Topper

    Linenspa Gel Swirl Memory Foam Mattress Topper

    Read more
  • 3
    Mattress Topper

    Best Memory Foam Mattress Topper for Back Pain

    Nolah Mattress Topper

    Read more
  • 4
    Lift by Amerisleep Mattress Topper

    Best Soft Memory Foam Mattress Topper

    Amerisleep Lift by Amerisleep Mattress Topper

    Read more
  • 5
    Graphite Memory Foam Mattress Topper

    Best Firm Memory Foam Mattress Topper

    Saatva Graphite Memory Foam Mattress Topper

    Read more

Keep reading to learn about how we test mattress toppers and for a helpful shopping guide, but first, here are the best memory foam mattress toppers. Looking to completely upgrade your bed? Check out all of our favorite bedding picks — from plush pillows to smooth sheets and cozy comforters.

1
Best Overall Memory Foam Mattress Topper

Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Adapt Topper

TEMPUR-Adapt Topper
1
Best Overall Memory Foam Mattress Topper

Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Adapt Topper

Now 40% Off
$251 at Tempur-Pedic
Credit: Tempur-Pedic
Pros
  • High-quality, pressure-relieving foam
  • Superior motion transfer reduction
  • Removable, washable cover
Cons
  • Some testers said it shifted, despite straps

To add some additional firmness to a too-soft mattress, this luxury option from Tempur-Pedic might just be the perfect solution. It offers exceptional support with a surprisingly firm feel that exceeded our expectations, given the brand's medium-firm rating. This topper is also great if your mattress feels like it has too much bounce or for those with heavier body types who can benefit from extra stability. Our testers commented that this topper has kept its shape perfectly, even after years of use, calling it a worthwhile investment. Despite the new design with elastic straps to keep the topper attached to your mattress, one tester shared that the mattress still shifted at night, though she did find the straps helpful when putting the topper on her bed.

While it is on the pricier side, the mattress topper uses the same foam as the brand's well-known mattresses, so you can get a similar high-quality, contouring feel at a fraction of the price. Tempur-Pedic's foam is known for conforming directly to your body shape and promoting spinal alignment. Unlike some memory foam options, this means it doesn't instantly sink or go flat. It can feel firm when you first lie down, but once it adapts to the shape of your body, the pressure relief is incomparable, according to our reviewers and survey panelists. And it offers the brand's superior motion-isolation properties, which means you shouldn't be disturbed by your partner tossing and turning at night. The topper is surrounded by a removable cover that can be easily machine washed, too.

AVAILABLE DISCOUNT: Save 40% off the full price of this mattress topper using code TOPPERS40 at checkout.

Height3"
FillTempur foam
SizesTwin, Twin Long, Full, Queen, King, California King
2
Best Value Memory Foam Mattress Topper

Linenspa Gel Swirl Memory Foam Mattress Topper

On Sale
Gel Swirl Memory Foam Mattress Topper
2
Best Value Memory Foam Mattress Topper

Linenspa Gel Swirl Memory Foam Mattress Topper

Now 15% Off
Credit: Linenspa
Pros
  • Adds plushness to a too-firm mattress
  • Gel beads infused to prevent overheating
  • Great for side sleepers
Cons
  • Cover costs extra

For a more affordable option, this memory foam mattress topper from Linenspa is an Amazon best seller with over 21,000 reviews and an average of 4.4 stars. We appreciate that the topper is infused with gel beads to prevent overheating, a common issue with memory foam which tends to absorb your body heat. The material will also conform to your body, providing a hug-like feel for the ultimate pressure-relieving cushion. Plus, the brand calls its foam "ultra plush," making the topper ideal for those with a too-firm mattress who want something soft and cozy.

The soft foam is great for those with lightweight body types, as well as side sleepers looking for a little more pressure relief around their joints. Just keep in mind that this topper comes without a cover, but you do have the option to add a cover for an additional cost.

Height2" or 3"
FillGel-infused memory foam
SizesTwin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
3
Best Memory Foam Mattress Topper for Back Pain

Nolah Mattress Topper

Mattress Topper
3
Best Memory Foam Mattress Topper for Back Pain

Nolah Mattress Topper

Now 13% Off
Credit: Nolah
Pros
  • Elastic straps for attaching to the mattress
  • Two firmness levels
  • Pressure relief for pain points
Cons
  • Some testers noted a strong chemical smell after opening

Nolah is popular among members of our tester panel who suffer from back pain, hip pain and sciatica, thanks to the exceptional pressure-relieving feel of the brand's signature AirFoam. This topper is available in two different firmness levels — Luxury Firm for those who prefer a medium-firm feel, and Plush for a softer, more cloud-like experience. It features wide elastic bands at each corner to attach it to your mattress and keep it in place while you sleep. One tester who used it on her adjustable bed was amazed by how secure this topper was, noting that it "didn’t shift around even when we elevated the feet and head of our mattress."

The foam topper also lived up to its pressure-relieving reputation. Our testers raved about the change they experienced in sleep quality, with one commenting that it "made my mattress new again, but better!" Another remarked that the topper "added a level of comfort that is lacking from my mattress." The memory foam material is wrapped in a breathable cotton cover, and our testers raved about how easy it was to zip off for cleaning (it can be run through the washing machine). Know that some testers noted a strong chemical smell that lasted a few days after opening and recommend washing the cover prior to use.

Height2"
FillMemory foam
SizesTwin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
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4
Best Soft Memory Foam Mattress Topper

Amerisleep Lift by Amerisleep Mattress Topper

Lift by Amerisleep Mattress Topper
4
Best Soft Memory Foam Mattress Topper

Amerisleep Lift by Amerisleep Mattress Topper

Now 25% Off
Credit: Amerisleep
Pros
  • Targeted cushioning and support
  • Two firmness levels
  • Removable, machine-washable cover
Cons
  • Some users found the topper difficult to position correctly on their mattress

This mattress topper from Amerisleep has an ergonomic design to provide comfort and support with excellent pressure relief in all the right places. It's available in two firmness levels: Comfort for side sleepers or those who want a more cushioned feel and Support for back and stomach sleepers or those who want a little extra support. The topper is uniquely constructed with targeted zones — the zones near the head, back and feet provide additional support, while the zones surrounding the shoulders and hips offer cushioning. Amerisleep's foam is also made with an open-cell design that the brand says offers more breathability and ventilation compared to traditional memory foam. In addition, this option comes with a removable cover that's machine washable for easy care.

When we tested this mattress topper, testers gave high scores for overall comfort, with one raving that it was "super comfortable and soft but still supportive." Another tester with a history of lower back pain noticed improvement within a few weeks of using the topper. Just note that it may be tricky to get your topper perfectly aligned because the brand's micro-gripping technology keeps the topper from sliding around. We recommend lifting the topper to re-position it rather than sliding it into place in order to avoid accidentally damaging your mattress.

Height3"
FillMemory foam
SizesTwin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
5
Best Firm Memory Foam Mattress Topper

Saatva Graphite Memory Foam Mattress Topper

Graphite Memory Foam Mattress Topper
5
Best Firm Memory Foam Mattress Topper

Saatva Graphite Memory Foam Mattress Topper

Credit: Saatva
Pros
  • Secure elastic straps
  • Graphite-infused foam for cooling effect
  • 180-day trial period
Cons
  • Spot clean cover

Known for its mattresses, Saatva is a brand that uses high-quality materials and excels in providing comfort and support. This luxurious three-inch memory foam topper is a great way to upgrade your sleep experience. The brand claims the graphite-infused memory foam provides a cooling effect because it's designed to pull excess heat away from your body. Our testers agreed that the mattress helped them to maintain a comfortable temperature while they slept, with one adding that it's cooler than other memory foam toppers she has slept on in the past.

The foam has a firmer feel that offers both ample support and pressure relief. It also has great motion isolation, so you won't feel movement from your partner turning over at night. Unfortunately, the plush organic cotton cover can't be removed, and the brand recommends spot cleaning as needed. Our testers loved the attached secure elastic straps and shared that they made it easier to place the topper on the bed and prevented the topper from shifting around at night. According to our testers and survey panelists, the brand has excellent customer service, and Saatva offers you 180 days to try out the topper before committing, so you have plenty of time to sleep on it and decide if it's the right feel for you and your bed.

Height3"
FillGraphite-infused memory foam
SizesTwin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King, Split King
6
Best Memory Foam Mattress Topper for Side Sleepers

Tuft & Needle Foam Mattress Topper

On Sale
Foam Mattress Topper
6
Best Memory Foam Mattress Topper for Side Sleepers

Tuft & Needle Foam Mattress Topper

Now 25% Off
Credit: Tuft & Needle
Pros
  • Non-skid grips on the bottom
  • Smooth outer cover
  • Takes pressure off hips and shoulders
Cons
  • Spot clean only

A memory foam mattress topper is ideal for easing pressure on the areas that support most of your weight, like your hips and shoulders, especially if you're a side sleeper. This option is comprised of two inches of foam for added cushioning and comfort while still feeling supportive. The brand's foam material (found in its mattresses and pillows) is particularly popular among our tester panel for its comfortable feel and exceptional motion isolation. One user even told us, "it was comfortable from day one," and another reported less hip and back pain after sleeping on it.

Tuft & Needle's resilient foam slowly adapts and contours to your body, so you don't instantly sink in upon contact. The brand also says that its foam material has an open-cell design for extra breathability. This topper comes with a soft knit cover to help prevent your bed sheets from bunching, and there's a non-skid bottom to limit shifting at night. Just note that you can't remove the cover to wash it.

Height2"
FillMemory foam
SizesTwin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
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7
Best Cooling Memory Foam Mattress Topper

ViscoSoft Memory Foam Mattress Topper

Memory Foam Mattress Topper
7
Best Cooling Memory Foam Mattress Topper

ViscoSoft Memory Foam Mattress Topper

Credit: ViscoSoft
Pros
  • Secure elastic straps and anti-slip mesh bottom
  • Perforated foam
  • Machine-washable cover
Cons
  • Some testers noted a strong smell upon opening

If you want to upgrade your bed with the plush support of a memory foam mattress topper but you're afraid of waking up in night sweats (memory foam is notorious for trapping body heat), this topper from ViscoSoft is designed with breathability in mind. Although it doesn't feel cool to the touch, the gel-infused foam is perforated to allow for airflow, which in turn, should help to dissipate heat. Testers agreed that they maintained a comfortable temperature while sleeping on it. With high ratings for support, we recommend this topper for someone who prefers a firmer feel. One tester praised the mattress topper, calling it a "game-changer" and sharing that the supportive foam helped relieve her and her husband's aches and pains.

Some testers noted that getting the mattress topper onto the bed was a bit difficult, adding that they noticed a strong smell after opening the cover and that the odor from the foam took a while to dissipate. Once it's on the bed, there are elastic straps on each corner to keep the topper in place while you sleep, and they're adjustable for an even securer fit. It also features an anti-slip mesh underside that's designed to stay put. For easy cleaning, the smooth cover can be zipped off and machine washed.

Height2", 3" or 4" options
FillGel-infused memory foam
SizesTwin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, Short Queen, King, California King
8
Best Memory Foam Mattress Topper on Amazon

Lucid Down Alternative and Gel Memory Foam Mattress Topper

Amazon’s Choice
Down Alternative and Gel Memory Foam Mattress Topper
8
Best Memory Foam Mattress Topper on Amazon

Lucid Down Alternative and Gel Memory Foam Mattress Topper

Credit: Lucid
Pros
  • Affordable and convenient
  • Foam and down-alternative hybrid
  • Fitted, stay-in-place design
Cons
  • Some users say it sleeps warm

Oftentimes, when you're shopping for a mattress topper, you're looking for a quick fix because your current mattress just isn't cutting it. Lucid's hybrid mattress topper checks all the boxes without costing an arm and a leg; it's available on Amazon at a lower price point with fast, convenient shipping. The topper combines supportive memory foam with plush fiber fill for a medium firmness level, and you can opt to use the two layers separately or together depending on your personal preference.

This four-inch topper is equal parts memory foam and pillow top with a two-inch layer of each material. The bottom foam layer is infused with gel beads, while the top features pockets of down alternative for that textbook-fluffy pillow-top cushioning. While there aren't elastic bands to keep the two layers connected, the down-alternative top does have an attached fitted sheet-like design that accommodates up to 15 inches to keep everything in place. Despite the gel infused into the foam, some users still noticed that this topper sleeps hot, so keep that in mind if you tend to overheat at night.

Height4"
FillGel-infused memory foam and synthetic down-alternative fiber fill
SizesTwin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King

How we test memory foam mattress toppers

"

The Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab has a long history of evaluating all kinds of bedding — and mattress toppers are no exception. We begin the process by researching popular toppers, including those from brands with bedding that we've tested and love and those that are favorites of online shoppers. After reviewing materials, specifications, features and claims, we then share mattress toppers with consumer testers who evaluate the toppers at home, providing feedback on everything from setup to sleep quality over the course of a few weeks. In recent years, we have tested over 45 different mattress toppers and pads, including memory foam models. Here are a few things we consider when choosing the best memory foam mattress toppers:

✔️ Ease of use: Testers rate how easy (or difficult) it is to set up the topper on their beds and note any issues with delivery.

✔️ Overall comfort: They then score the mattress topper on how comfortable it feels to sleep on at night.

✔️ Comfortable body temperature: Our reviewers share whether they maintained a comfortable body temperature when sleeping on the topper.

✔️ Stay-in-place capabilities: Users report whether the topper shifted or moved during their testing experience. We gauge and make note of any special features like straps or grip technology.

✔️ Sound: Users assess the topper for noise, commenting on whether it stayed quiet and undetectable during use.

✔️ Mattress enhancement: Our testers detail if and how the topper changed the feel of their mattresses.

✔️ Overall satisfaction: Finally, our reviewers tell us whether they liked sleeping on the mattress topper and whether they plan to continue using it. They also relay any likes, dislikes or additional comments about their user experience.

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How to shop for a memory foam mattress topper

"

Mattress toppers, like mattresses, aren't a one-size-fits-all product, so here are some things to consider when shopping for the best memory foam mattress topper for you:

✔️ Thickness: Most mattress toppers are between two to four inches, and we recommend choosing one that's at least two inches. Thicker toppers can provide additional support, but if you're looking for a more affordable upgrade, a thinner model is a great option. Keep in mind that toppers will add to the height of your mattress, which can affect how bed sheets fit.

✔️ Softness: If your mattress is too firm, look for a plush topper that has a softer firmness level. If you're after additional support, go with a firmer option.

✔️ Support: If you wake up with back or hip pain, a memory foam topper can add firmness and support to provide pressure relief in relevant areas.

✔️ Temperature regulation: Memory foam is known to trap body heat, which can result in night sweats. If you overheat easily, opt for a topper with cooling features like graphite- or gel-infused foam and perforated construction for airflow.

✔️ Stay-in-place features: If you're concerned that your mattress topper may move or shift at night, look for toppers with features like corner straps that hook onto your mattress or a non-skid bottom that'll keep it locked in place. You can also consider adding a mattress protector if you find your topper needs something extra to keep it from shifting in your sleep.

✔️ Care: Many mattress toppers aren't machine washable, especially those made of memory foam, but some may come with a removable cover that can be washed by hand or in a machine. Be sure to follow all of the brand's recommended care instructions (typically found in online product descriptions and on the product care label) to keep your mattress topper in tip-top shape.

✔️ Certifications: To ensure that there aren't any harmful levels of chemicals in your memory foam topper, keep an eye out for certifications from CertiPUR-US. The GREENGUARD certification for indoor air quality signifies that the mattress topper has met chemical emission standards.

Are memory foam mattress toppers good for your back?

"

Memory foam mattress toppers are an excellent option for back pain sufferers. Jaspal R. Singh, M.D., co-director of the Center for Comprehensive Spine Care at Weill Cornell Medicine and New York-Presbyterian, told us that there isn't a definitive type of mattress or mattress topper that's the best for alleviating back pain, but some patients who sleep on mattresses containing memory foam have reported feeling well supported and experiencing restful sleep. This can be attributed to memory foam's ability to offer pressure relief, which can be critical in areas surrounding the hips or shoulders.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

"

Grace Wu has evaluated many different bedding products, physically in the Lab using specialized equipment and in her home as well as through analyzing feedback from hundreds of consumer testers. She regularly reports on different types of mattresses, from hybrid mattress to mattresses for adjustable beds, and mattress toppers, including latex mattress toppers. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping, Grace earned a Masters of Engineering in Materials Science & Engineering and a Bachelor of Science in Fiber Science from Cornell University.

Amanda Constantine joined the Good Housekeeping Institute in 2022 as a home and apparel reviews analyst and has tested bedding products including sheets, mattress protectors and duvet covers in the Textiles Lab. She has also researched and evaluated mattresses from popular brands like Tempur-Pedic and Saatva. For this article update, she used her categorical expertise and data from our most recent round of bedding tests to add new picks and more product information.

Headshot of Grace Wu
Grace Wu
Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab Product Analyst

Grace Wu (she/her) is a product reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she evaluates fabric-based products using specialized equipment and consumer tester data. Prior to starting at Good Housekeeping in 2022, she earned a master of engineering in materials science and engineering and a bachelor of science in fiber science from Cornell University. While earning her degrees, Grace worked in research laboratories for smart textiles and nanotechnology and held internships at Open Style Lab and Rent the Runway.

Headshot of Amanda Constantine
Amanda Constantine
Home & Apparel Reviews Analyst

Amanda (she/her) researches and reports on products in the Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab, ranging from clothing and accessories to home furnishings. She holds undergraduate degrees in apparel merchandising and product development and advertising and marketing communications, as well as a master of science degree in consumer sciences from The Ohio State University. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2022, Amanda was a lecturer for the fashion and retail studies program at Ohio State, where she taught fashion and textiles courses.

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