How to Choose a Memory Foam Mattress Topper

A memory foam topper will soften a mattress that is too firm.

Memory foam mattress toppers are available in a variety of sizes, thicknesses and textures to suit any mattress. They mold to the shape of your body to provide extra cushioning and a higher level of comfort. Different qualities and thickness of memory foam material have varying densities and compression rates. Take your sleeping experience to the next level by topping your mattress with a sheet of memory foam.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape

Instructions

1. Measure the length and width of the mattress for which you want to choose a memory foam topper. King and queen measurements are slightly different from company to company, so it is best to work with your precise mattress dimensions for a perfect fit.

2. Visit mattress and bedding stores, like Sears, Wal-Mart and JCPenney, that allow you to lay down on the memory foam mattress toppers and feel how they cradle your body. Try out as many textures and thicknesses of toppers as possible so you know which design features are most comfortable. People in warmer climates may prefer the egg crate style toppers over the completely flat variety because they stay cooler by providing better airflow.

3. Price the memory foam mattress toppers in local stores and compare the prices to those you find online. Overstock.com, Amazon.com and Ebay.com offer many different memory foam mattress toppers by known manufacturers at competitive prices. Salespersons at bedding stores may be able to price match or make a package deal that includes a mattress or other bedding items.

4. Select the memory foam mattress topper that is within your price range and will give you comfortable and restful sleep. Review the return policies of the seller to make sure that you can return an uncomfortable topper for a refund.

Tips & Warnings

• Bring your partner with you when looking for a mattress topper that is covering a shared bed. It is possible to cover each half of the bed with a different memory foam topper so that both people are comfortable.

• Not all memory foams are the same. Two toppers of the same thickness may have varying densities and provide varying levels of cushioning.

• Replace memory foam mattress toppers every one to three years for maximum sleep comfort.

• Memory foam toppers less than two inches thick provide very little cushioning once they are compressed by the weight of your body.

References

• My Foam Mattress: Why Memory Foam Mattress Toppers Wear Out Quickly
• Healthy Foundations: How to Get A Better Night's Sleep and Wake Up With Fewer Morning Aches and Pains - Without Having to Buy a New Mattress