Many places advise you to get a mattress topper as soon as you get a new mattress, but do you need a mattress topper and how is it different from a mattress protector? In this post you’ll find out “what is a mattress topper” as well as the benefits of having one.

What is a mattress topper?

In case you’re asking yourself “what is a mattress topper”, it’s a layer that goes on top of your current mattress to add some extra comfort. Mattress toppers can vary in thickness and firmness, as well as that they can be made out of different materials such as memory foam, gel, microfibre or pocket springs.

They’re highly recommended if you want to make your bed firmer or softer, or if your old mattress is starting to feel uncomfortable but you want to get a bit more use out of it.

Benefits of having a topper

There are a few key benefits to getting a topper for your mattress. Those include:

  • Protection – A topper can provide great protection for your mattress especially if paired with a mattress protector as it will keep away dirt, stains and dust.
  • Instant reshaping – If you’re unhappy with the firmness of your mattress, a topper can be an instant fix to the issue. Depending on the material it’s made from it will make your mattress softer or firmer to offer you ultimate comfort.
  • Cost-efficiency – New mattresses can be quite expensive if you’re looking for a good quality one. Toppers, while not a permanent solution, are definitely a more affordable solution until you can make the investment in a new mattress.
  • Extended mattress life – By allowing for a more even weight distribution, a mattress topper can considerably increase the durability of your mattress, which means you’ll have to get a new one much less often.

Difference between a topper and mattress protector

The difference between a topper and protector is in their purpose, density, thickness and price. A mattress is the foundation of your bed protectors and toppers are extras that can alter its function and longevity. Toppers are made to not only offer protection but also adjust the feel of the mattress.

A mattress protector on the other hand wouldn’t add much additional softness as it’s designed mainly for protection. It’s almost like a fitted sheet that goes on top of your mattress to prevent any dust and dirt getting in it as well as guard against potential spills.

Do you need both a mattress protector and topper?

Mattress toppers can be used together or on their own to add a bit of comfort to any old or uncomfortable mattress. A topper can add height and depth to your mattress making it feel brand new again. You don’t need a topper if you’re already happy with the comfort of your mattress.

In contrast, protectors are always necessary and recommended in order to protect your mattress from any spills, stains and liquids.

A combination of a topper with a mattress protector can greatly benefit your quality of sleep and protect your bed. It’s worth investing in a mattress protector as it will protect both the topper and your mattress, ultimately helping you get more use out of your regular mattress.

How to clean a mattress topper?

Some toppers are washable which means you can just stick it in the washing machine. For others, however, only the cover can be washed. You should always check the care instructions provided by the manufacturer to see whether you can wash your topper or not.

Memory foam toppers cannot be machine washed, so most of them come with a removable cover which is washable. However, other materials such as hollowfibre are fully machine washable, but it depends on the individual product.

If you accidentally spill something on your topper and it’s not suitable for machine washing you can still spot-treat it to avoid staining. You can use some warm water and a sponge to do this. Just dab the affected area with the sponge and leave it to dry. Once again, you have to check the manufacturer’s care details on how to clean your product, because with some materials you have to avoid the use of hash cleaning products such as bleach.

So, do you need a mattress topper? Ultimately, it’s an individual preference and it depends on how happy you are with your current mattress. If the mattress you have right now is old and uncomfortable, but you don’t have the money to invest in a new one then it could be a temporary solution until you can afford a better mattress. But if you just want to protect your mattress then maybe start with only a protector and add a one once your mattress is a few years old.