How to Choose a Latex Mattress Topper

Mattress toppers are designed to serve various purposes. You can use them to soften up an existing mattress that’s still in good shape. It can increase the functional lifespan of a mattress, improve the feel of an uncomfortable mattress, and it can make a good mattress even better. 

The bottom line is that latex mattress toppers can be used on any type of mattress. However, a topper won’t be much help when a mattress is already past its lifespan or is already too soft.

If you’re planning to buy your first ever latex mattress topper (or any kind for that matter), you’d be happy to know that you’re on the right track. This guide will introduce you to the world of latex mattress toppers so you’ll be better informed when you decide to buy one.

Latex mattress toppers

When it comes to the different mattress topper materials, latex types top the list.

Polyester-based or synthetic mattress toppers tend to be cheap but have a very short lifespan. Mattress toppers made from wool or other natural fibres are more expensive and have a longer lifespan but don’t offer any additional support benefits.

Mattress toppers made from natural latex have the longest lifespan. Just like their mattress counterparts, latex mattress toppers tend to be a bit pricey. But the fact that they are durable makes the investment well worth it.

Benefits of using a latex mattress topper

Ideally, a mattress topper should match or complement the bed, so a latex mattress should also have a latex mattress topper. A latex mattress topper provides the following benefits:

1. It functions as an additional comfort layer.

Organic latex mattresses are well-known for providing superior support at just the right firmness and bounce. They are also cool and comfortable.

By using an organic latex mattress topper with your latex mattress, you’ll be increasing the softness of the comfort layer and, ultimately, making your bed a more relaxing haven.

2. It adds a layer of protection for the mattress.

Natural latex is a durable mattress material, and the same can be said for latex mattress toppers. But by using a latex mattress topper to protect the core of your mattress, you’ll be combating three types of enemies:

• Perspiration: The human body secretes as much as two pints of moisture over a night. With a mattress topper, you’re preventing perspiration from reaching the mattress core. This also makes it easier and more manageable to clean your sleeping area as you need only to spot clean your mattress topper. Also, compared to having to buy an entirely new natural latex mattress, purchasing a new latex topper when needed would be a whole lot cheaper.
• Microorganisms and dead skin: Just like other animals, humans shed skin and some hair follicles daily. Microorganisms like bacteria, dust mites, mould, and mildew also thrive in moist and dark environments. And although latex mattresses are naturally antimicrobial and resistant to all these (including bed bugs), all sorts of dirt can end up on the surface of your mattress. With a mattress topper, you can effectively keep these things away from your mattress.
• Indentations and sagging: Indentations and sagging caused by mattress use are generally not a problem with natural latex mattresses. However, it’s an inevitability with all mattresses, especially Pillow Top and Memory Foam Mattresses. By using a natural latex mattress topper, you’ll be minimizing normal indentations that can develop over time.

All in all, investing in a natural latex topper is a wise decision as it is not only tough enough to withstand natural wear and tear. It also protects your more expensive mattress from the need for replacement in the long term.

How soft or firm should a mattress topper be?

There are soft and medium mattress toppers. However, since organic latex is an elastic material, even those with medium softness or firmness won’t have the same level of stiffness normally found in other mattress toppers.

At Nature’s Embrace, we’ve found that soft natural latex mattress toppers tend to be the most popular. Still, even medium mattress toppers can work well with very firm mattresses by providing a better transition from the topper to mattress. A medium mattress topper can also feel functionally softer on a very firm mattress. If the mattress isn’t very firm, a soft mattress topper is generally the better choice. Of course, as always, personal preference and comfort requirements ultimately play a role in your buying decision.

How thick should a mattress topper be?

The level of thickness you should go for depends on several factors. These include your sleeping position or style, body composition, and how much are you looking to change the comfort level of your existing mattress. The thicker you go, the more the topper is going to change the comfort profile of the mattress. 

For side sleepers, a thicker, softer mattress topper is highly recommended. The reason for this is that side sleepers need a thicker surface that will provide adequate support to the side of the body, allowing for the shoulder and hip to sink in a little for optimum comfort and lumbar support. 

When it comes to back sleepers, a thinner topper works fine. Back sleepers need to lie down on a surface that allows their spine to achieve a natural position (similar to when they are standing), so a thinner mattress topper tend to work the best.

Shop for the Best Latex Mattress Topper at Nature’s Embrace

Nature’s Embrace natural latex mattress toppers come in two-inch, three-inch, and four-inch variants.

All of our toppers are made of GOLS-certified organic Dunlop latex and encased in GOTS-certified organic cotton sleeves, making them supremely supportive and comfortable, as well as eco-friendly.