Orthopedic topper

Mattress toppers have become very popular over recent years and may people buy them for what they see as an orthopedic advantage.

A mattress topper is an extra layer of bedding that is placed over the top of a mattress. Toppers come with a range of different fillings and the idea behind them is that you supplement the existing mattress construction with a further layer of material, typically foam.

Toppers are generally quite thin, typically up to about 3 inches (75 mm).

Mattress topper options

Most people who buy a mattress topper have a standard spring or coil constructed bed and they want to add some extra padding or cushioning to the top of the mattress.

Providing that the mattress is in good shape this is a great way to change the feel and even the support level of a mattress by giving it an extra cushioning layer. What material you choose is up to you, but memory foam is very popular, mainly because it adds the cradling, contouring and moulding features that a spring based bed cannot duplicate.

Obviously using a mattress topper does not convert a standard bed into an orthopedic one. However, if the existing mattress is firm and supportive and a visco elastic memory foam topper is added, the end result will be fairly similar to having a composite mattress made with both springs and foams.

Other suitable mattress topper materials include latex foam, standard foam and feathers and down. Additionally, memory foam can be used in a mattress topper as a single thin block, or as a shredded material where it offers a softer an more traditional feel.

Topper materials

Different topper fillers offer different feels. So here is a brief summary of what each option has to offer.

• Memory foam is warm and shapes snugly around the body of the person resting on it. Many people describe the sensation of a memory foam bed as being one of feeling the mattress wrap around them. With a topper, the lesser thickness of memory foam reduces this sensation, however it will still be present to a degree.
• Latex foam also offers a wrap-around feel, but with a more springy and bouncy texture. It also feels cooler than memory foam.
• Standard foams will give a normal spring based bed a more padded feel and they will make a hard bed seem softer.
• Feathers and down and natural organic wool are two other less popular mattress topper fillers. Both provide a warm feel, and both require fluffing up or shaking if they are to regain their padded feel.

You should never buy a topper for a failing or damaged mattress. A topper can add some different properties to a mattress, but it will not revitalise or cover up the failings of a worn out one.