Are you shopping for a mattress topper to relieve back pain?
You have come to the right place.
This in-depth buying guide will help you choose the best mattress topper to relieve back pain.
The 16 toppers we’ve selected below will fit your body, reduce pressure on your back, and provide excellent support for your spine throughout the night.
A supportive, comfortable topper cannot completely relieve back pain. However, it can help reduce it and keep it from getting worse.
If you’re interested in other materials and types of toppers, check out our other mattress topper buying guides:
Our Top 3 Picks
- Best Latex Topper for Back Pain
- 100% All-Natural Organic Latex
- Outstanding pressure relief & support
- Choose from 6 sizes, 5 firmness levels and 2 thicknesses
- Best Memory Foam Topper
- Resistant against dust mites, allergens
- Choose from 8 sizes
- Best Cooling Gel Topper for Back Pain
- Quilted top can be machine washed.
- Soft top with excellent support below.
- Choose from 5 sizes
What’s In This Buying Guide
This buying guide will help you choose the best mattress topper to relieve your back pain – or your partner’s back pain.
We begin by recommending our top picks for each major common need and type of product.
Then we review each of our top picks and discuss the options and features to consider when choosing the right pad or topper for your bed.
Finally, we answer common questions you may have about using a mattress topper or pad to relieve back pain.
Each product on this page is proven and highly rated. In some cases, we’ve tested the product in our home.
This comprehensive buying guide took us a long time to produce and should take about 10 minutes to get through.
You can skip the most crucial section if you have a short time.
So let's get started!
Table of Contents
Best Mattress Toppers For Back Pain Relief
- 1. Editor’s Pick: LUCID 3 Inch Ventilated Memory Foam Mattress Topper
- 2. Best Latex Topper: PlushBeds Natural Latex
- 3. Best Memory Foam Topper: Sleep Innovations Gel 4-inch
- 4. Best Talalay Latex Topper: Ultimate Dreams Full 3" Talalay Latex Mattress Topper
- 5. Best Alternative to Fiber: Exceptional Sheets Bamboo MattressPad
- 6. Best Budget: WEEKENDER 2 Inch Memory Foam
- 7. Best for Couples: Best Price 4-Inch Memory Foam
- 8. Best Topper with Removable Cover: Milliard Gel Memory Foam
- 9. Best Pillowtop: ViscoSoft 4 Inch Gel Memory Foam Topper
- 10. Best Mattress Topper for Back and Hip Pain: TEMPUR Adapt + Cooling 3 Inch
- 11. Best Memory Foam for Hotsleepers: POLAR Sleep
- 12. Best for Firm Mattresses: KARRISM Extra Thick
- 13. Best Firm Topper for Back Pain: ViscoSoft PillowTop Latex
- 14. Best All-Natural Topper: Pure Green 100% Natural Latex
- 15. Best Orthopedic Mattress Topper: LUCID 2 Inch Memory Foam Mattress Topper
- 16. Best Portable Mattress Topper: Best Price Mattress 4'' Full Trifold Mattress Topper
LUCID 3 Inch Ventilated Memory Foam Mattress Topper
Editor’s Pick
Material
Open cell memory foamThickness
3” (2” and 4” options available)Firmness
MediumWarranty
3 years
Sleep Innovations Gel 4-inch
Best Memory Foam Topper
Material
Fiber pillow top + gel-infused memory foamThickness
4” (two layers)Firmness
MediumWarranty
10 years
Ultimate Dreams Full 3″ Talalay Latex Mattress Topper
Best Latex Topper
Material
Ventilated blended Talalay latexThickness
3”Firmness
Soft, medium and firmWarranty
3 years
Exceptional Sheets Bamboo MattressPad
Best Alternative to Fiber
Material
Revoloft fiber with a bamboo rayon coverThickness
1”Firmness
SoftWarranty
1 year
WEEKENDER 2 Inch Memory Foam
Best Budget
Material
Open cell memory foamThickness
2”Firmness
MediumWarranty
3 years
Best Price 4-Inch Memory Foam
Best for Couples
Material
Green tea infused memory foam + high density poly foamThickness
4” (two layers)Firmness
MediumWarranty
5 years
Milliard Gel Memory Foam
Best Topper with Removable Cover
Material
Gel-infused memory foam with removable bamboo coverThickness
2”Firmness
MediumWarranty
None
ViscoSoft 4 Inch Gel Memory Foam Topper
Best Pillowtop
Material
Down alternative pillow top + gel-infused memory foamThickness
4” (two layers)Firmness
MediumWarranty
3 years
TEMPUR Adapt + Cooling 3 Inch
Best Mattress Topper for Back and Hip Pain
Material
TEMPUR-materialThickness
3”Firmness
SoftWarranty
10 years
POLAR Sleep
Best Memory Foam Topper for Hotsleepers
Material
Swirl gel ventilated memory foamThickness
2”/3”Firmness
Medium-firmWarranty
10 years
KARRISM Extra Thick
Best for Firm Mattresses
Material
Down alternativeThickness
VariableFirmness
SoftWarranty
Not specified
ViscoSoft PillowTop Latex
Best Firm Topper for Back Pain
Material
Gel latex and a pillow top coverThickness
3″Firmness
FirmWarranty
10 years
Pure Green 100% Natural Latex
Best All-Natural Topper
Material
100% natural latexThickness
1”-3”Firmness
Medium-firmWarranty
5 years
LUCID 2 Inch Memory Foam Mattress Topper
Best Orthopedic Mattress Topper
Material
Lavender-infused memory foamThickness
2”Firmness
MediumWarranty
3 years
Best Price Mattress 4” Full Trifold Mattress Topper
Best Portable Mattress Topper
Material
Memory foam + high-density poly foamThickness
4”Firmness
Medium-firmWarranty
5 years
PlushBeds Natural Latex
Best Latex Topper
Material
Memory foam + natural latexThickness
2″ and 3″Firmness
Medium-firm and extra-firmWarranty
5 years
Lucid 3″ memory foam mattress toppers offer a great experience and a reasonable price.
It has premium memory foam, which conforms to your body and eliminates pressure points.
It is somewhere in the middle of the range when it comes to firmness. It is soft enough to mold your body but firm enough to give you good support.
For people suffering from low back pain, the medium-firm comfort level will be most helpful.
PROS
- Reduces the pressure on your back.
- Maintains a well-aligned spine.
- Sleeps cool.
- Resistant against dust mites, allergens.
CONS
- Slight smell when new.
Our Review
This Lucid topper is a great option if your mattress feels too firm or begins to show its age. To keep it in place, place the Lucid topper on top of your mattress
The topper does not get too hot at night because of the ventilation to increase airflow.
This helps to keep the mattress cool.
Many users report that the topper lasts for at least a year. High-quality memory foam won't sag and doesn't quickly deteriorate.
The warranty on the topper is for three years. That's about how long you can expect it to last.
You can choose from 8 sizes of the Lucid Topper: full, full XL, twin, twin XL, king, and queen.
You can buy the 3″ topper at a very affordable price. Lucid also offers a 2-inch option if you look for something less expensive. However, it may not offer the same level of support if your body is larger.
For those who like something a little more, there's also an optional 4″ version.
Latex offers floating support and contours to your body's curves. This allows for proper spine alignment and pressure relief. It is exactly what you need to reduce or prevent back pain.
PROS
- All-natural with no fillers or chemicals.
- Cool to sleep on.
- Many sizes and firmness levels.
- Shipping is free.
- 5-year warranty.
CONS
- More expensive than memory foam.
Our Review
There are four firmness levels for the PlushBeds Talalay latex mattress. You can choose soft, firm, memory foam, or latex mattresses. No matter what type of mattress you have (firm, memory foam, latex, soft, etc.), there is a PlushBeds topper for you.
If you have a problem with a soft or unsupportive mattress, the extra-firm or medium-firm options might be able to help. For heavier sleepers, the extra-firm PlushBeds topper is ideal. The firmer toppers will be a great choice for stomach sleepers, as they provide support and alignment.
The soft and medium toppers will solve your problem if your mattress feels hard. The medium PlushBeds topper is great for stomach and back sleepers.
You can choose from a 2″ or 3″ PlushBeds latex topper. For those who want to feel the mattress beneath but need more support or pressure relief, the 2-inch topper is ideal.
You can make your mattress softer or more firm if you like the support it provides, but you also want to keep the bounce and feel of the pocket coil mattress.
If you are looking to change the feel of your mattress, the 3-inch PlushBeds topper is ideal. A 3-inch PlushBeds topper will feel more firm than 2-inch size.
The 3″ or medium latex topper will allow you to sink deeply into your mattress.
Both the 2″ and 3” toppers make great hot sleepers. If you are particularly hot, choose the 3″ topper. The mattress beneath will be more comfortable with insulation provided by the thicker topper.
The PlushBeds latex topper uses natural latex, just like the PushBeds Botanical bliss mattress. Natural latex is hypoallergenic and can last for a long time.
PlushBeds natural latex topper comes with a 5-year guarantee. The topper is not returnable. If you aren't satisfied with the size you have ordered, you can exchange the topper. However, you need to pay the return shipping costs.
The Sleep Innovations memory foam topper is dual-layered and includes cooling gel, providing a better sleep experience.
PROS
- Relieves back pressure.
- Excellent support.
- Sleeps cool.
- Washable cover.
- 10-year warranty .
CONS
- The quilted fiber topper traps heat.
Our Review
For back pain, standard memory foam toppers often work best.
Let's begin with the dual-layer design.
Most toppers have one slab of foam. Sleep Innovations' topper takes inspiration from mattress design and adds two layers.
They include:
2” quilted fiberfill
This is like a topper for your topper. It feels like you're sleeping on a cloud of soft fiber. It is a great choice for people who have suffered injuries or are recovering from surgery.
2″ gel memory foam
The memory foam increases the pressure relief from its top layer and provides sufficient support to align your spine and prevent you from sinking too deeply. In addition, the foam is gel-infused to keep it cool at night.
The quilted top layer can be machine washed. However, users found it difficult to fit in their washing machines. Therefore, it might be necessary to clean it at a laundromat.
Overall, the Sleep Innovations topper feels fantastic. It is one of the most comforting foam toppers for those suffering from back pain.
It is an excellent choice if you want something extra soft and plush on your back.
You can choose from five sizes: full, twin, queen, queen, king, and California king.
The cover fits snugly to hold the memory foam pad and quilted layer together. This keeps the topper in place during the night.
This Ultimate Dreams latex foam mattress topper will make your mattress feel too soft.
Latex foam is a better choice than memory foam. It provides pressure relief and supports your body.
PROS
- Great support and pressure relief.
- Three firmness options.
- Sleeps cool.
- Resistant against dust mites, allergens.
- Responsive.
CONS
- Twice as expensive as regular foam.
- Not 100% natural.
Our Review
Talalay latex, used in the Ultimate Dreams topper, provides better support, contouring, and responsiveness than the cheaper Dunlop latex.
There are three options for comfort: firm, medium, or soft. You should choose the one that suits your needs.
The soft option is best if your main concern is that your mattress feels too firm.
It is soft and bouncy but also supportive.
You can choose the firm or medium option if your mattress is too hard. We recommend the firm topper for overweight or large-bodied people with back pain
We recommend the medium topper for couples who have slightly different comfort preferences.
For those who need more information, here are the ILD firmness scores:
Soft: 19 ILD
Medium: 28 ILD
Firm: 36 ILD
It is made from latex foam and stays cool even during the hottest nights. Bamboo covers keep the topper cool.
This isn't all-natural latex, which is the only problem. It is also known as blended latex. It contains natural Talalay latex (with additional synthetic compounds) and artificial Talalay latex.
The Ultimate Dreams latex topper is not a 100% natural or organic product, however.
There are seven sizes available: full, short queens, queens, kings, twins XL, full, and twin XL.
You may find memory foam and latex foam toppers uncomfortable, so a softer and more comfortable material might be better for you.
The down-alternative toppers are more comfortable than latex or memory foam. They're great for those with back injuries, recovering from back surgery, and side sleepers who require better contouring.
This is the type of mattress pad you should consider if this appeals to you.
It has Revoloft filling, a high-quality fiber.
It feels like a real goose down that is soft and huggable. It's like sleeping on a luxurious hotel mattress.
PROS
- Great for recovery from back pain or surgery.
- Side sleepers will love this product.
- Fitted skirt.
- Sleeps cool.
- Hypoallergenic.
CONS
- Easy to tear outer material.
- Not a good option for extra support.
Our Review
This topper can make a huge difference in your sleep if you suffer from severe back or hip pain. You will sleep faster, deeper, and get more restful sleep.
The fiberfill is not as cool and comfortable as latex foam, but it doesn't get too hot. Bamboo rayon covers are a great way to cool down.
It is highly breathable and can be used to make your bed cooler than cotton or polyester fabrics.
You can wash the fiberfill topper in the washer because it is a fiberfill topping. You probably shouldn't.
It seems fragile that the backing material is at the bottom of the mattress. Customers have reported that they had to shed their tears after washing the mattress in the washer.
Spot clean it to keep it safe. You can also protect the pad with a mattress protector.
We recommend the highly-rated WEEKENDER mattress topper if you're looking for durable and supportive back support.
The 2″ topper is a popular Amazon product, not only because it's cheap but also because it offers a great sleeping experience.
PROS
- Excellent value.
- Sleeps cool.
- Great support and pressure relief.
- Durable.
CONS
- Slides around on the bed.
Our Review
It's a standard memory foam material.
They've created it to provide good support without putting too much pressure on your back.
It is also ventilated through tiny holes to maintain cool airflow.
Although it is only two inches thick, it can make a huge difference in how your mattress feels. Users generally woke up feeling less pain in their backs, went to bed faster, and slept longer.
The manufacturer offers a three-year warranty to protect the topper. Many people reported using the topper for over a year with no noticeable signs of deterioration.
Even married couples don't notice any sagging.
The WEEKENDER topper comes in a compact box, just like other toppers. It is super simple to put together on your own.
There is no strong smell, as many customers have noted. As a result, it is easy to sleep on.
You'll need a mattress topper that offers plenty of support and pressure relief if you or your partner has back pain.
We recommend the Best Price Mattress memory foam mattress.
PROS
- Additional support for couples.
- Excellent pressure relief.
- Little to no motion transfer.
- Durable.
CONS
- Can sleep warm even with the mesh covering, especially in summer.
Our Review
It measures 4″ and is one of the thickest mattress toppers online. In addition, it provides extra support and prevents the topper from sagging.
The topper does not come with a complete pad. Instead, the topper has a 1.5-inch soft memory foam top layer and 2.5 inches high-density foam base layer.
The top layer provides pressure relief. It conforms to your body and relieves your hips, back, and shoulders pressure.
The bottom layer is strong support that will keep you from sinking too deep.
High-density foam helps to reduce motion transfer. As a result, you won't be disturbed if your partner wakes up or turns at night.
The polyester mesh cover covers these layers. In addition, the mesh design allows for better airflow, which helps to ensure that the foam doesn’t retain too much heat.
The Best Price mattress topper comes in all sizes, from twin to California King. You can also choose a shorter queen option.
Many mattress toppers do not come with a cover.
If they do, it is difficult to remove or wash. It is also difficult to clean the topper.
People who sweat a lot at night and pet owners who share their beds with their pets can have this problem.
For those who want a mattress topper that is easy to clean, we recommend the Milliard Gel Memory Foam Mattress Topper.
PROS
- Removable washable cover.
- Reduces shoulder, hip, back pressure.
- Excellent support.
CONS
- Heat-sensitive sleepers may still feel warm.
- Slight chemical smell when you open the box.
Our Review
The cover is soft bamboo fiber and can be removed right from the top.
Follow the instructions on the label to clean the container.
The topper itself has gel memory foam.
Milliard's topper is great for your back. This topper from Milliard relieves pressure and provides support. It also keeps your spine aligned in all positions.
Cooling is made possible by the gel infusion into the foam.
Bamboo covers keep the topper cool, no matter what season. This is why it's one of the coolest memory foam toppers that you can purchase.
Although it's not as cool as latex foam, it is comfortable enough to sleep on for most people.
The non-slip bottom of the cover is a bonus feature that I am sure you will appreciate. The topper will stay in place thanks to the tiny nubs.
Customers report that it moves slightly but not as much as other toppers. It will only need to be adjusted every few days and not every night.
The Milliard topper comes in four sizes: full, twin, queen, and king.
ViscoSoft's luxurious mattress topper will wrap your back in soft clouds. Viscosoft Pillow top Gel Memory Foam Topper comes in a 2-layer design.
The top layer is a down-alternative pillow top, and the bottom layer, gel memory foam.
Combining these materials creates a hotel-like experience, with great support and soft pressure relief.
PROS
- Cover washable.
- Support and pressure relief for a great price.
- Cool sleeping.
- Attaches securely to the mattress - no slipping.
CONS
- More expensive.
Our Review
The soft 300-thread cotton cover covers the top 1.5-inch fiberfill layer. This covers the pillow top in a luxurious feel and aids with cooling.
The cover is washable in a washer.
The 1.5-inch memory foam layer offers great support and pressure relief. Gel infusion decreases heat retention.
We love the fact that this topper stays in place, no matter what you do at night.
The top cover is elastic and secures the memory foam layer to the pillow tip.
The skirt of the topper has strong elastic bands that attach the whole topper to the mattress. The skirt will fit mattresses up to 18 inches in thickness.
You get to enjoy the soft, supportive feel of the topper, but you also have the luxury of not having to adjust it every time.
You don't have to spend thousands on a luxurious mattress if you want to experience 5-star hotel-level sleeping. A topper can transform your mattress from an ordinary one to a luxurious one.
This is what the TEMPUR+Adapt + Cooling 3″ topper does better than any other we have seen.
Although it is more costly than other toppers, most customers agree that it is worth the extra cost.
PROS
- Luxurious and plush.
- Side sleepers will love it.
- Helps with hip and back pain.
- Cool sleeping.
- Cover is washable.
CONS
- Not ideal for sensitive skin.
- High Price.
Our Review
The topper consists of Tempur-Pedic. This brand is well-known for making luxurious mattresses. The topper has Tempur-Pedic, a brand well-known for its luxury mattresses.
Hence, the name TEMPUR-Adapt+ Cooling means that the topper provides you cooling.
The TEMPUR-material mattress topper provides a luxurious sleeping experience. It hugs your body, relieving pressure on your hips, shoulders, and lower back.
The TEMPUR topper can help with lower back pain, hip pain, and other joint pain.
The TEMPUR material is cool and comfortable, so it's a good choice for those who sleep hot.
The TEMPUR–Adapt topper is not firm or medium-firm. It is therefore ideal for those who wish to soften too-firm mattresses.
This is a great option for side-sleeping or having back pain.
All sizes of the TEMPUR topper are available, from twin to California King.
The cover is made of knitting and is removable.
Memory foam toppers can be very comfortable. They offer excellent support and body contouring. Memory foam traps heat which can cause the mattress to overheat at night.
Hot sleepers face this problem.
Even if you are a hot sleeper, memory foam is still available. For example, POLAR SLEEP's memory foam mattress topper sleeps nearly as cool as a latex one.
PROS
- Cool sleeping.
- Excellent support and pressure relief.
- A good choice for too-firm mattresses.
- CertiPUR US certified foam.
CONS
- Not suitable for mattresses that are too soft. Instead, use a latex topper.
- A 'new foam" smell when new.
Our Review
How they have created the memory foam is the secret. It stays cool thanks to two things.
It has the swirl gel in it. It pulls heat away from the body, making you sleep cooler.
The ventilated design of the topper improves airflow into and out of the mattress. This prevents heat buildup in the foam.
POLAR SLEEP toppers are soft and plush but not too soft. It is also medium-firm. This is a great option for mattresses that are too firm.
The memory foam holds your body, reduces pressure on sensitive areas, and aligns your spine with preventing back pain.
The POLAR SLEEP TOpper is comfortable in any position, but it's especially great for side- and back sleepers.
There are two thicknesses of the topper: 2″ or 3″. We recommend the 3-inch topper because the price difference isn't that significant. It offers better compression support and deeper body contouring.
Both thicknesses come in four sizes: full, twin, queen, and King.
This KARRISM mattress topper is the best option if your mattress is too firm and needs softening up.
This topper transforms even the most hardened mattress into a luxurious, plush bed.
PROS
- Ideal for mattresses that are too firm.
- Luxurious and plush.
- Cool sleeping.
- Machine washable.
CONS
- Not for soft mattresses.
- Not for heavier sleepers. We recommend a memory foam topper, instead.
Our Review
KARRISM is different from other toppers because it contains a down-alternative fill and not foam, which makes it extremely compliant and soft.
Baffle boxes contain the filling to prevent it from flattening or shifting. This keeps the topper's puffy and comfortable through years of use.
KARRISM toppers have a thicker profile than regular toppers. Baffle boxes can reach as high as 21 inches in thickness, but they will compress when you lay down on them.
The 400-thread count cotton used in the topper cover is very durable. Moreover, the topper cover is very breathable and keeps it cool.
The deep elastic pocket on the top of the mattress secures the topper. It will fit any thickness mattress.
You can wash this topper in your washing machine. Use cold water and tumble dry at low heat.
A firm mattress topper is ideal if you want to improve support and alignment of the spine; that is the problem with your soft mattress.
Latex foam is a great choice as it will prevent you from sinking into your mattress and provide just the right amount of support.
PROS
- Supports mattresses that are too soft.
- Increases the responsiveness of your mattress.
- Cool sleeping.
- Pressure relief is provided by the plush pillow-top.
CONS
- Memory foam toppers are more expensive..
Our Review
The ViscoSoft Pillow Top Latex Mattress Topper is our top choice for a firm topper to help with back pain.
ViscoSoft's topper is a combination of a 2″ latex pad and a 1″ plush pillow top.
This allows you to still feel pressure relief on your hips, shoulders, and back, even if you firm up your mattress.
The pillow-top covers have a filling with a down alternative that is machine washable.
Gel latex foam works as the pad underneath the cover. This foam is firmer than memory, which is good if your mattress feels too soft.
Latex pads make your bed more responsive and easier to turn around and get into and out of bed. This makes your bed more comfortable for sex.
Latex foam is cooler than memory foam. It is even cooler when it has cooling gel added to it. The ViscoSoft latex mattress topper will make you more comfortable if you're a hot sleeper.
ViscoSoft toppers are available in five sizes: full, queen, twin XL, full, and queen.
We recommend the Pure Green natural latex mattress topper if you are looking for organic or natural bedding.
Pure Green is 100% natural latex. It is therefore more expensive than memory foam or synthetic latex mattress toppers.
PROS
- 100% natural - GOLS Organic certified.
- This is the ideal mattress for those with too soft mattresses.
- Cool sleeping.
- Great support and responsiveness.
CONS
- Memory foam toppers are more expensive.
- It does not come with a cover.
Our Review
The Pure Green topper has a firmer and more solid feel than memory, just like other latex foam toppers. It is rated medium-firm.
It is best for mattresses that are too soft. It will improve your mattress' compression support, responsiveness, and spinal alignment.
All sizes of the Pure Green Topper are available, from twin to Cal King. There are many thicknesses available for each size.
A thin 1″ pad or thicker 2” pad can be chosen, as well as a substantial 3” topper. Naturally, the more dense and supportive the topper is, the better it will be.
This natural latex is delicate. Take care not to tear the topper.
It is better to purchase a topper cover to protect your latex from dirt, moisture, and stains.
Lucid 2″ orthopedic mattress toppers are similar to other memory foam toppers, except for two differences.
The zoned support is the first.
Lucid’s topper features five zones that vary in firmness to provide targeted pressure relief and support for different body areas.
Lavender infusion is the second unique feature. The foam has lavender essential oil infusion. This helps mask the ‘new foam scent' and allows you to relax while in bed.
PROS
- Relaxing lavender scent.
- Great pressure relief.
- Stays cool at night due to airy / ridged foam.
- Low price.
CONS
- Smells are not for everyone.
- Not suitable for an overly soft mattress.
- No cover.
Our Review
The lavender scent is a bit strong the moment you unbox the topper.
It will eventually dissipate and become less noticeable in a few hours. You may need to open the window to air the mattress.
However, don't expect the Lavender scent to last forever. Some customers claim it lasts for a few weeks.
Memory foam is soft and airy, and the Lucid topper has a medium feel making it ideal for too-firm beds.
It is also ideal for use on an innerspring mattress to improve body contouring and to reduce motion transfer and bounciness.
This memory foam topper won't make you sweaty or hot.
Lucid uses a lighter type of memory foam that traps heat less effectively. The top of the topper is rigid, allowing air to move heat away from the mattress.
The mattress does not come with a cover, so to avoid damage to the memory foam, we recommend purchasing one. The cover will prevent dirt and allergens from getting into the foam.
delicate. Take care not to tear the topper.
It is better to purchase a topper cover to protect your latex from dirt, moisture, and stains.
You can take your mattress topper with you on camping trips and for sleepovers.
The Best Price Mattress Trifold Topper is our recommendation. It has a thickness of 4 inches and can work as a mattress topper, a camping mattress, or in your car.
PROS
- Portable - Ideal for camping, boating, RVs, road trips.
- Mattress-like design provides excellent body contouring and support.
- Removable / washable cover.
CONS
- No carrying case.
Our Review
The Best Price Topper has two layers: A 1.5″ comfort layer of memory foam and a 2.5” base layer of high-density foam.
Combining memory foam with support foam creates a great combination of firm support and soft pressure relief.
Tri-fold design is the most striking feature. You can fold the mattress at two points so you can stack three sections on top of one another.
It is much easier to transport the topper in your RV or car. The topper can also be stored in a closet under or underneath the bed when guests leave.
Tri-fold toppers come with a washable, poly-Jacquard covering. It also has an anti-slip bottom to keep it on top of a bed or the floor.
When Should I Buy a Mattress Topper for Back Pain?
You might consider buying a mattress topper if you fall into any of these situations:
Too-soft mattress
A too-soft mattress doesn't offer adequate support for the back. This can also cause problems with spinal alignment. As a result, your back will sink lower than other parts of your body, leading to or worsening back pain.
Too-firm mattress
An overly-firm mattress is also not suitable for most people. It doesn't conform and exerts pressure on your back and other parts of your body. This can lead to back pain or make it worse.
You have a worn out / sagging mattress
A depression in the middle can cause back pain. While a topper may temporarily make your mattress more comfortable, it is better to buy a new one.
Need more support and contouring
While your mattress may be perfectly fine, you may need additional support for your back. This is particularly true for those with back problems or injuries. An orthopedic specialist can reduce back pain in this situation.
How Can A Mattress Topper Reduce Back Pain?
These are a few ways a mattress topper can help reduce back pain, including the following:
Pressure relief
Too much pressure on the back can lead to back pain. Overly firm mattresses are prone to this problem. A good mattress topper will conform to your body, reducing pressure on your back, hips, shoulders, and other pressure points.
Better back support
If the mattress sinks too low, your back won't get the support it requires. It sinks into the mattress instead of being held in line with the rest of your body. This causes back pain. You can get better back support with a mattress topper that is firm or medium-firm.
Spinal alignment
The topper molds to your body and provides support. This ensures that your spine remains in its natural curve and alignment. If you want a proper alignment from head to toe, it is important to use the correct pillow.
Extended the life of your mattress
A mattress topper is an affordable and temporary solution if your mattress is causing you back pain. A quality mattress topper can increase the lifespan of your mattress by 2 to 3 years.
Buying Guide - Topper Features To Look For To Ease Back Pain
These are the things you should look out for when purchasing a mattress topper to reduce or prevent back discomfort:
1. Material
Memory foam is the best material to relieve back pain. Memory foam molds to the body and relieves pressure. It also distributes weight evenly.
Memory foam toppers can be especially helpful for people with severe back pain due to an injury or illness.
Latex foam toppers are a wise choice for those who need extra support. Also, if your mattress is too soft or your weight is higher than average, a latex foam topper will be a good choice.
It improves spine alignment and provides greater back support.
These are the only materials used in mattress toppers.
A pillow top made of fiber is available for some mattresses. However, the main component of the pillow top has latex or memory foam.
Some toppers do not have a cover. The most common materials for toppers with covers are cotton, spandex, and bamboo.
Bamboo is best for those who sleep hot.
2. Thickness
The thickness of mattress toppers varies from 2″ to 4″.
2” Toppers: These are the most economical toppers. These toppers are perfect for budget-minded people. Because they don't require deep contouring, they are a good choice for those who sleep less than the average. If your mattress is in good condition, a 2″ topper might be able to help. It is necessary to either soften or firm the mattress.
3” Toppers : These are the most affordable and comfortable toppers. Toppers 3 inches in diameter provide excellent support and pressure relief, even for heavier ones. A 3-inch topper is the best choice if you're unsure what size to choose.
4″ Toppers: These toppers fall at the top of the luxury scale. These toppers feel more luxurious and give you a deeper contour. These toppers are ideal for side sleepers or overweight people who require more pressure relief. Two layers are common in 4″ toppers, with the pillow top being the top.
3. Firmness
Mattress toppers are soft, medium, and firm, just like mattresses.
The medium-range is where you can find most toppers. Again, this is the best for most people. It offers a balance between firm support, soft pressure relief, and solid support.
A firm topper might be better if your mattress is too soft or you have a larger body.
A soft topper is better for side sleepers, people with severe back pain, or those who have difficulty sleeping on their stomachs.
4. Cooling Features
While a cool topper may not be necessary for relieving back pain, it can make your sleep more comfortable.
A hot topper can make it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep. You will wake up sweaty and hot.
A latex foam topper is the best choice if you want a topper that will stay cool throughout the year. Latex is naturally cool.
You should choose a memory foam topper with cooling gel, ventilated foam, or a bamboo cover.
5. Pillow Top
The pillow top of a mattress topper usually has a soft and plush fiber-filled pad.
This pillow topper provides additional pressure relief and is great for people with severe back pain. These pillows are also great for people who have had back or hip surgery.
Be aware that the pillow top can trap heat and make the pillow topper a little warm.
Types of Mattress Toppers for Back Pain
Here is a recap of the toppers mentioned above.
Memory foam toppers
Usually made of gel-infused foam to decrease heat retention. These are great for back pain.
Latex foam toppers
Made from either 100% natural or blended latex. These foam toppers are great for those who require firm support, a bouncy topping, and excellent cooling.
Pillow toppers
Pillow toppers are pillows with a plush, pillow-like top typically made with down-like fiber. This is a great option for anyone looking to create a luxurious hotel experience without spending a fortune on slumber.
Egg crate toppers
These are foam toppers that have an egg crate design. This design allows for more airflow and helps keep the topper cool. This is a great option for people who live in hot areas or sleep hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a mattress topper help with back pain?
Yes, but only if you purchase the right topper.
For back pain, a memory foam topper is the best. A pillow-top memory foam topper is a good choice if the pain is severe.
Latex toppers are a wise investment for those who require more support or feel that memory foam is too warm.
Can mattress toppers cause back pain?
Yes, they can if you purchase the wrong one.
Some people can feel back pain from a too hard or too firm topper.
A topper that suits your comfort needs is the best. For example, if you are overweight, get a firm topper. Side sleepers should get a medium or soft topper.
How thick should my mattress topper be?
For most people, three inches is enough. It also offers support and pressure relief.
A 2″ topper is sufficient if your mattress has a pillowtop or is in good condition. A 4″ topper is better for mattresses that are very worn and have sagged.
For those looking for a luxurious and plush sleeping experience, Thicker 4″ toppers will be a great choice.
Are there firm mattress toppers?
Most mattress toppers come in the medium firm. However, you can also get firm or soft mattress toppers.
Is it bad for your back to use memory foam mattress toppers?
Not necessarily. It all depends on how firm the topper is and what position you are sleeping in. A medium-firm to firm topper is best for stomach or back sleepers to provide sufficient back support.
Side sleepers need a softer memory foam mattress topper to reduce pressure on the hips and back.
What is the difference between a mattress pad and a mattress topper?
Mattress pad and mattress topper frequently mean the same thing.
Mattress toppers have traditionally been thicker (1-5 in.) and made of latex or foam. A mattress topper greatly affects the comfort and feel of your mattress.
On the other hand, mattress pads are usually thinner and contain down alternative, down, or wool. You can use these pads to soften a too-firm mattress and not compromise support.
Some mattress pads can also double as protectors.
What is the best mattress topper to relieve hip and back pain?
A medium-firm mattress topper is perfect for those who sleep on their backs. This will support your back and relieve pressure on your hips.
If you prefer to sleep on your back, you can get a medium or soft (or both, depending on how big you are) mattress topper, such as memory foam. This will align your spine and protect your hips from pain and pressure.
Where to Find the Best Deal
Most of the mattress toppers reviewed on this page are available online at Amazon.com or on their manufacturer’s website.
As a degreed engineer, I love new technology as much as you do (perhaps more). I also understand how to sort the best products from the rest. My team and I spend dozens of hours each week reviewing the best & latest products for your bedroom. Many are tested in-house, and others we break down based on our technical understanding. Whether you need a bed-cooling system, an adjustable bed, or a new CPAP machine – we've got you covered.