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Last Updated on April 2, 2024
Getting a good night’s sleep is crucial for our overall health and well-being. However, many of us struggle to get the recommended amount of sleep, which can negatively impact our productivity, mood, and health. If you frequently toss and turns at night, it might be time to invest in a mattress topper. Mattress toppers can add extra cushioning and support to your mattress, helping you get a more restful night’s sleep. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the best mattress toppers for side sleepers, as side sleeping can put extra pressure on certain areas of the body and require a specific type of mattress topper.
What Is a Mattress Topper?
A mattress topper is a removable layer of cushioning material placed on top of an existing mattress to provide added comfort and support. It typically ranges in thickness from one to four inches, depending on the desired level of softness or firmness.
Mattress toppers can be made from various materials, including memory foam, latex, wool, and down feathers. Each material offers unique benefits, such as pressure point relief, temperature regulation, and allergy resistance.
What Are the Benefits of a Mattress Topper?
- Increased comfort: Mattress toppers can add a layer of cushioning and softness to your existing mattress, making it more comfortable to sleep on. This can be especially important for side sleepers, as this position can put more pressure on certain body areas.
- Better support: A good mattress topper can also provide better support, helping to keep your spine aligned properly while you sleep. This can help alleviate pain and discomfort in the neck, back, and shoulders.
- Improved pressure relief: Mattress toppers can also provide additional relief, especially for side sleepers who may experience pain in pressure points like the hips and shoulders. A mattress topper can help prevent pain and discomfort in these areas by distributing your weight more evenly.
- Reduced motion transfer: If you share your bed with a partner, a mattress topper can help reduce motion transfer. This means you’ll be less likely to feel your partner’s movements at night, which can help you sleep more soundly.
- Longer mattress lifespan: Finally, a mattress topper can help extend the lifespan of your mattress by protecting it from wear and tear. By adding an extra layer of cushioning, a mattress topper can also help prevent sagging and indentations in your mattress, which can help it last longer.
Why May Side Sleepers Need a Specific Type of Mattress Topper?
Side sleepers may need a specific type of mattress topper because this position can put extra pressure on specific body areas, such as the hips and shoulders. A softer topper can provide extra cushioning in these areas, helping to alleviate pain and discomfort. At the same time, a mattress topper for side sleepers should still provide enough support to keep the spine aligned properly. Therefore, a balance between softness and support is crucial when choosing a mattress topper for side sleepers. Additionally, side sleepers may benefit from a topper with good pressure relief, which can help prevent pain in pressure points.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Mattress Topper for Side Sleepers
Before diving into the best mattress toppers for side sleepers, one must understand what factors to consider when choosing a topper. Here are a few key things to keep in mind:
- Softness level: Side sleepers generally need a softer mattress topper to cushion their hips and shoulders, which can take on more pressure in this position.
- Supportiveness: While a soft topper is important, choosing one that still provides enough support to keep your spine aligned properly is also important.
- Pressure relief: A good mattress topper for side sleepers should provide enough pressure relief to prevent pain in pressure points.
- Durability: You don’t want to invest in a mattress topper that will wear out quickly, so look for one made with durable materials.
- Material type: There are several different types of mattress toppers, including memory foam, latex, and down. Each has benefits and drawbacks, so consider what material will work best for you.
A Rule of Thumb in Choosing Mattress Topper Materials
Down / feather mattress toppers: While feather and down mattress toppers can undoubtedly add extra comfort to your bed, it’s essential to consider the downsides. They require frequent fluffing to retain their shape, which can become tedious. Additionally, most feather and down mix toppers are prone to shredding, decreasing lifespan. Considering the high cost of these toppers, we don’t recommend them unless you have specific requirements for natural materials.
Choose down alternative if you want to add an extra layer of bedding.
Choose memory foam if you want a soft feeling like sleeping on a cloud.
Choose latex if you want softness but don’t want to sink in.
Choose a mattress topper with a thickness of 3 inches or above if you want a firmer bed.
The 11 Best Mattress Toppers for Side Sleepers
Side sleeping can put extra pressure on certain body areas, which could result in pain or discomfort. The good news is that choosing the right mattress topper can help alleviate some of these issues. Here are 6 of the best mattress toppers for side sleepers, each with unique features:
#1 Birch Plush Organic Mattress Topper (Best Eco-Friendly Mattress Topper)
Birch Plush Organic Mattress Topper | Raymour & Flanigan
The Birch Plush Organic Mattress Topper is an excellent choice for those who want a supportive, breathable, and eco-friendly topper. This award-winning masterpiece offers plush luxury and performance on the surface of any mattress, making it perfect for those who want to relieve hip pain. While it may not suit everyone’s needs, its high-quality materials, long lifespan, and warranty make it a worthwhile investment.
Pros
- High-quality materials: Made of natural Talalay latex wrapped in an organic wool and cotton cover, this topper is durable, resilient, and well-made.
- Comfortable and supportive: The medium firmness topper is supportive and comfortable for sleepers, even for the weight is over 230 pounds, providing a good sleep experience.
- Breathable and moisture-wicking: The cotton and wool cover naturally wicks away moisture and ensures you do not get too hot while sleeping, making it an ideal choice for hot sleepers.
- Eco-friendly: GREENGUARD Certified, Sustainability Sourced
Cons
- It may be too firm for some: Sleepers who weigh under 130 pounds or those who prefer a softer, deep contouring feel may find this topper too firm for their liking.
- Non-washable cover: While it is engineered to be hypoallergenic and resistant to mold and mites, it only allows spot-wash, which may concern some.
#2 ViscoSoft Pillow Top Latex Mattress Topper (Perfect for Back Pain)
The Viscosoft Pillow Top Latex Mattress Topper is an excellent choice for anyone dealing with back pain. It’s made of top-quality materials, provides ample support, and is incredibly comfortable. While it might be pricier than some other toppers on the market, we believe it’s worth the investment for anyone looking for a good night’s sleep.
ViscoSoft Pillow Top Latex Mattress Topper | Amazon
Pros:
- Optimal support: The gel-infused latex foam in this topper provides better support than traditional memory foam. The responsive gel latex gives optimal support and prevents sinking, while the rebound effect helps alleviate pressure point pains. This topper helps promote spinal alignment for most sleepers under 230 pounds.
- Cooler sleeping experience: The gel latex foam has a high heat transfer coefficient, making it cooler than traditional memory foam. This helps the topper stay cooler for longer, while the 100% cotton cover allows the topper to breathe and prevents heat from becoming trapped.
- Breathable and easily washable cover: The soft pillow top provides a high-quality, cloud-like comfort. The included elastic skirt ensures an easy and secure fit to your mattress.
- Reduces pain and soreness: The gel-infused latex foam eliminates body aches, whether you’re a back or side sleeper.
- Certi-PUR-US certified: This topper is made without ozone depleters or heavy metals and has low VOC emissions for indoor air quality.
Cons:
- As the topper provides medium firmness, some customers may find the topper too soft or not provide enough support.
- The price point of the topper may be higher than some other options on the market.
#3 ZINUS Ultra Cooling Gel Memory Foam Mattress Topper (Perfect for Pressure Relief)
Zinus Ultra Cooling Gel Memory Foam Mattress Topper | BedBath&Beyond
This memory foam material contours to the shape of your body, providing pressure relief and support where you need it most.
Pros:
- Gel-infused memory foam offers full support and pressure point relief, reducing aches and pains while providing the ultimate cooling sleep experience.
- Anti-skid bottom to keep it firmly in place.
- Removable and washable polyester cover.
- CertiPUR US-certified foam ensures durability, performance, and quality.
- 5-year limited warranty.
Cons:
- The polyester cover is not breathable as a natural fabric, such as cotton or bamboo.
#4 Relieving Octaspring Technology Mattress Topper (Perfect for Spine Alignment)
Dormeo Mattress Topper | Amazon
Pros:
- Ergonomic design conforms to the body’s natural contours for pressure-relieving support
- The anti-slip bottom keeps the topper securely in place on the mattress
- 3-zone support system evenly supports the head, shoulders, hips, and spine for all types of sleepers
- Octaspring Technology promotes airflow and prevents overheating for a cool and comfortable sleep
- Breathable topper with a washable cover made of hundreds of comfort pockets for optimum air circulation
- It comes with a 100-night sleep trial and a 10-year limited warranty
Cons:
- Relatively expensive compared to other mattress toppers on the market
#5 Tempur-Adapt Mattress Topper
Tempur-Adapt Mattress Topper | BedBath&Beyond
Pros:
- Made of proprietary TEMPUR foam, known for its durability and longer-than-average lifespan
- The plush and adaptive surface cushions the body and contours evenly to alleviate pressure points and pain
- Suitable for side and back sleepers weighing 230 pounds or less, improving spine alignment and reducing soreness
- Tempur foam excels at motion isolation
- Signature Staytight™ Straps: Non-slip corner straps keep your topper in place
- It comes with a breathable knit polyester cover that is machine washable
- 5-year guarantee and free shipping across the US
Cons:
- Only available in one firmness level (medium)
- Sales are final, so you cannot return the topper for a full refund after the purchase
#6 Lavender-Infused Memory Foam Mattress Topper (Aromatherapeutic Effect)
Its lavender scent helps with relaxation while the memory foam conforms to the body’s shape, cushioning pressure points.
Lucid-Comfort Lavender-infused Memory Foam Mattress Topper | HomeDepot
Pros:
- It is infused with lavender and aloe for a calming effect, promoting relaxation and reducing stress.
- Open-cell memory foam provides cool airflow, keeping you cool throughout the night.
- Relieves common pressure points for added comfort, reducing body aches and pains.
- Available in 2-inch, 3-inch, or 4-inch thicknesses, providing various options for your desired comfort level.
- CertiPUR-US certified memory foam for high-quality standards, assuring that the foam is free from harmful chemicals and safe for use.
- It comes with a 3-year limited manufacturer warranty, ensuring customer satisfaction and protecting against defects.
Cons:
- Some users may find the lavender scent too strong.
- It may not provide enough support for heavier individuals.
- The cover is not included with the topper, so you must purchase one separately.
#7 Comforpedic Loft Mattress Topper with Water Resistant Cover
Comforpedic Loft Mattress Topper with Water Resistant Cover | BedBath&Beyond
Pros:
- Gel-infused memory foam provides pressure relief and enhanced comfort.
- Open, textured sides promote airflow to keep you cool during the night.
- The moisture control system prevents fluids from penetrating the topper’s surface, which helps keep it clean and hygienic.
- The hypoallergenic and antimicrobial properties of the memory foam make it a good choice for those with allergies or sensitivities.
- The water-resistant polyester knit cover protects the topper and helps to extend its lifespan.
- Meets flammability standards for safety.
- Available in a range of sizes to fit different bed sizes.
Cons:
- Some users may find the topper too soft or lacking support, particularly those heavier or prefer a firmer sleep surface.
- The water-resistant cover may feel stiff or uncomfortable to some users, particularly those who prefer a softer, more breathable fabric.
#8 Subrtex Ventilated-design Bed Mattress Topper (Skin-friendly Fabric )
Subrtex Ventilated-design Mattress Topper | Amazon
Pros:
- Gel-infused memory foam provides a cooler sleeping environment.
- Ventilated design optimizes air flow and reduces trapped body heat for added comfort.
- The removable and washable bamboo rayon cover is skin-friendly and comes with adjustable elastic straps to fit mattresses up to 12 inches deep.
- Certified by CertiPUR-US and OEKO-TEX for durability and content, ensuring a healthier sleep environment.
- It comes with a 10-year warranty
Cons:
- It may be too soft for those who prefer a firmer mattress topper.
- The bamboo rayon cover may not be as durable as other materials.
#9 Serta Arctic Soothing Cool Mattress Topper: (Best Overall for Hot-sleepers)
Serta Arctic Soothing Cooling Mattress Topper | HomeDepot
Pros:
- 25x cooling REACTEX technology provides superior cooling for a comfortable sleep experience
- Combines cooling technology with a top layer of supportive memory foam for pressure-relieving support
- It helps regulate skin temperature to reach and maintain optimal range for sleep
- Self-recharging technology during no-use is ready for the next night’s sleep
- The breathable polyester fabric cover offers luxurious softness, and a non-skid bottom fabric keeps the topper in place
- CertiPUR-US-certified foam meets rigorous standards for content, emissions, and durability
- It comes with a 2-year limited warranty
Cons:
- Spot clean only, which may be inconvenient for some users
- It may have a slightly higher price point compared to other cooling memory foam toppers on the market
#10 PlushBeds Natural Latex Mattress Topper (Best Luxury)
The 100% natural latex composition makes this topper hypoallergenic and eco-friendly, providing five levels of firm sleeping surface suitable for side sleepers. ( natural latex topper )
PlushBeds Natural Latex Mattress Topper | Amazon
Pros:
- Made of the finest quality 100% natural latex, which is odor-free and great for allergy sufferers
- Certified by OEKO-TEX Standard 100 and GreenGuard Gold
- It provides luxurious comfort, soothing pressure relief, and superior support, especially for shoulders, hips, back, and knees.
- Offers five levels of firmness for a comfortable sleep. Extra Firm topper is for Over 250lbs or those who enjoy very firm surfaces.
- Open-cell airflow design provides better heat distribution and keeps you cool all night long
- 5-year guarantee and up to 20 years lifespan.
Cons:
- The cover is not included with the topper, which means an additional expense.
#11 The Puffy Delux Mattress Topper (Most Compatible Mattress Topper)
Puffy Mattress products are designed to provide exceptional comfort, support, and pressure relief to help you get the best night’s sleep possible.
Puffy Delux Mattress Topper | Puffy
Pros:
- Available in two firmness levels: soft and firm
- Memory foam construction adapts to the body to relieve pressure points
- 40% rayon derived from bamboo and 60% polyester cover is naturally breathable and soft to the touch
- Fully removable and machine washable cover for easy care
- Elasticated perimeter and grips on the bottom of the topper prevent shifting while sleeping
- 2.5-inch thickness corrects the feel of an old or indented mattress
- 15-inch deep pocket for a tight grip on your mattress
- Free shipping to all 50 states
- 101-night sleep trial and a generous lifetime warranty
Cons:
- Limited thickness options (only 2.5 inches available)
- May retain heat due to memory foam construction (depending on personal preference)
Conclusion
Numerous options for side sleepers need additional support and cushioning. Each topper has unique features, such as cooling properties, natural materials, targeted support, or added thickness. In terms of suitability, some are better suited for back pain relief or pressure point relief, while others provide plush, comfortable cushioning. Choosing the right mattress topper can improve sleep quality and reduce discomfort or pain, making it a worthwhile investment.
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