Despite experts recommending sleeping on your back for the best night’s sleep, some sleepers can’t help but turn to their side. While this might be your preferred sleeping position, it can lead to some issues without the right support. And a mattress topper could be the answer.
With 3 inches of cooling memory foam and a removable, machine-washable cover, the Tempur-Pedic Cooling Foam Topper is an excellent choice for any side sleeper.
As your shoulder collapses into the mattress or gets crunched up to your neck, your spine becomes misaligned and you can experience pain. Your best solution is a medium-firm mattress and one firm pillow.
A mattress topper is another answer. These can improve your sleep without having to buy a new mattress. With a mattress topper, you can also customize the comfort. Most brands offer options from 1-4 inches thick, with different levels of firmness and varying materials. By adding the right additional support and padding, you can wake up refreshed and pain-free.
The materials for mattress toppers all have pros and cons, and can make a huge difference in the quality of your sleep.
While the amount of firmness side sleepers require is subject to preference, you need at least enough to keep your spine in the proper alignment. The easiest way to choose the right level of firmness for your mattress topper is to look at your mattress.
In general, you should aim for medium firmness. If you already have a firm, supportive mattress, all you need is a little extra cushion, and you can choose a softer topper. If your mattress is too soft, opt for a firmer mattress topper that adds the support you need.
However, your body weight also factors in. The heavier you are, the firmer your mattress topper should be to support the weight.
Typically, mattress toppers are made between 1-4 inches thick. The thickness will determine how much of a change you experience by adding the mattress topper. Generally, a thicker mattress topper is better for side sleeping. It will add more material to cradle your hips and shoulders, the areas where pressure will most quickly build up.
One of the biggest downsides to sleeping on your side is the sharp pressure points. A mattress topper with the right thickness and firmness can alleviate these pressure points, giving you a pain-free night of sleep. The best mattress toppers will redistribute your weight and spread it across the surface, rather than letting it focus on one area.
Most mattress toppers hold up well for between 1-5 years, but your topper should come with at least a limited warranty. Check how long the warranty is for a better idea of how long the manufacturer expects it to last.
As you use your mattress topper night after night, there will be opportunities for it to get stained. Stain resistance will reduce the wear on your topper, increasing its longevity.
Many mattress toppers allow only spot cleaning, not a full wash. However, be sure to read the instructions. Depending on the materials, you may be able to wash it.
Depending on the materials, size, thickness and firmness, you could spend anywhere from $40-$780 on a mattress topper.
A. Many sleep experts recommend memory foam as the preferred type of mattress topper for side sleepers. It’s comfortable and compresses around the shoulders and hips, the two places where pressure naturally builds up the most for side sleepers. While soft, these provide plenty of support to achieve proper alignment.
A. Yes and no. A softer sleeping surface will definitely relieve pressure on your shoulders and hips. However, you don’t want something so soft that it won’t provide the support you need to achieve proper alignment. Aim for a medium-soft to medium-firm sleep surface.
A. Much of the decision between firm and medium-firm mattress toppers comes down to your weight and preference. Medium is better for light-weight sleepers. As your body weight goes up, so should the firmness. The heavier the sleeper, the firmer the mattress topper should be to provide enough support.
Tempur-Pedic Cooling Foam Topper
What you need to know: The 3 inches of cool gel memory foam will contour to your body and support your shoulders and hips throughout the night.
What you’ll love: This mattress topper has a cooling cover that can be removed and machine washed in cold water.
What you should consider: It only comes in 3 inches, so you can’t customize your thickness.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Mellow 4 Inch Memory Foam Mattress Topper
What you need to know: Made of polyester and two layers of foam, this is a responsive option for any side sleeper.
What you’ll love: This mattress topper features 2.5 inches of high-density foam and 1.5 inches of memory foam. Weight is distributed evenly across the surface to properly relieve pressure points.
What you should consider: This is a firmer, not ideal for lightweight sleepers.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
What you need to know: Features targeted convoluted zones for pressure relief at multiple levels.
What you’ll love: Textured design is soft, airy, and breathable. Many consumers agree it's a budget-friendly fix to uncomfortable mattresses. Stays put, even if you toss and turn.
What you should consider: Arrives with a "new foam" scent.
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Kasey Van Dyke writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
