Looking to buy a new mattress topper? There are various things you should consider. Keep reading to find out how thick should a mattress topper be.
When choosing a mattress topper, there are several factors one should consider. These factors include the primary purpose and the material of the mattress topper, which also depends on your mattress. Another factor which is quite significant as well, is the thickness of the topper.
A mattress topper is different from a mattress cover, protector, or encasement since they protect the mattress and the topper. On the other hand, a mattress pad, which is usually thinner than a topper, has a similar purpose. However, if looking for extra comfort and padding, a mattress topper is a relatively better choice.
Mattress toppers can aid in adding cushioning to your mattress or bettering its quality. Either way, choosing the most suitable thickness is necessary. However, before that, one should know the available topper thicknesses in the market.
The average thickness of a mattress topper lies between two inches and four inches. A few brands provide mattress toppers with a depth of five or six inches, but in specific materials only.
Two-Inch Mattress Toppers
The thinnest mattress topper is that of two inches. It aids in the addition of comfort and softness to the mattress. However, if considered for mattress support, in the case of sagging or lumps, this is not the most fitting choice. A two-inch mattress topper is most suitable for a new mattress.
Moreover, the thickness is most appropriate for the stomach or back sleepers.
Three-Inch Mattress Toppers
Even though there is only a difference of a single inch, a thickness of three inches can provide additional benefits. It not only provides softness and comfort to the mattress but helps in revitalizing it.
Four-Inch Mattress Toppers
Four inches is an ideal thickness in a mattress topper. This thickness aids in supporting older mattresses that have depressions, bumps, or are saggy. Moreover, they provide an extra layer of support and ensure a reduction in body aches.
Why should different thicknesses of a mattress topper affect your choice?
Now that you know the possible thickness of a mattress topper, the following are their purposes and effects.
Providing support to old mattresses
With time, mattresses become saggy, grow lumps or depressions that are uncomfortable, and ultimately need support. Buying a new mattress is not always budget-friendly. Therefore, a mattress topper can be a more feasible and cost-effective alternative.
To choose a topper for increasing the lifespan of the mattress, you should also consider the material and the density. On average, using a three inches or a four inches mattress topper ensures a longer lifespan for the mattress.
Moreover, choosing a topper with a high density is more beneficial. The reason is that a high-density mattress topper has a longer lifespan itself, and therefore provides support for longer durations.
Changing the nature of the mattress
The nature of the mattress refers to its softness or firmness, its thinness or thickness, and the comfort it provides. Perhaps, after you buy a new mattress, you feel that it is too thin or too firm. Maybe, it is too soft, usually for aged people, or is not comfortable enough. In all cases, a mattress topper can help you out.
For a new mattress which requires thickness or softness, a two inches topper is sufficient. However, older mattresses call for considering the material and the density of the topper as well.
A mattress topper made of latex or memory foam provides more airiness, and they are less bouncy. On the other hand, using foam for firmness is not advisable, since it compresses quickly. Either way, for extra comfort and softness, three inches or four inches are the most suitable thicknesses.
Mattress toppers for medical reasons
Some people need mattress toppers to prove relief from pain, which requires firmness, or recovery from chronic diseases or surgery. In such cases, people need more support for their backs and muscles. Usually, latex and memory foam are the most effective.
These materials support body postures and ensure a comfortable sleep. Once again, a thickness of three or four inches is appropriate for medical conditions.
Reducing allergies through mattress toppers
A mattress encasement, which covers the mattress through all the six sides, protects against bed bugs and dust mites. However, to solely reduce allergies from dust, a thinner mattress topper is effective.
The thicker the topper is, the more dust it can collect, which can lead to breathing disorders. Therefore, sticking to a two-inch or three-inch thickness is advisable in such a case.
Absorbing motion with mattress toppers
Using a memory foam topper on a bouncy mattress can aid in absorbing movement. The protective layer provided by the topper reduces motion caused by pets or active sleepers.
Once again, a thickness of three inches or four inches is suitable for motion absorption.
What can we conclude from all this?
In conclusion, a mattress topper with a thickness of three or four inches is most versatile. However, before you choose a topper thickness, it is necessary to judge your requirements. Moreover, the topper thickness alone is not sufficient, users should decide the material, and the density, as well.