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9 best memory foam mattress toppers for a supportive night's sleep

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best memory foam mattress toppers

If you've got an old mattress you've had for a the while, it could be in need of a zhuzh. But, if you don’t want to splash out on a replacement just yet, then investing in the best mattress topper is a great way to give it a lift for less. And if you want to add some serious support to your bed, we recommend one of the best memory foam mattress toppers specifically.

While memory foam filling is relatively firm, it moulds to suit your body, making it a good choice if you suffer from back pain, or sleep on your side. The extra level of support means memory foam toppers are more of an investment than fibre ones, but ache-free nights are probably worth it – and it's still cheaper than a new mattress!

Which is the best memory foam mattress topper to buy?

If you’re ready to transform your sleep, here’s a one-stop list of our best memory foam mattress toppers, all tried and tested at the Good Housekeeping Institute. Or keep scrolling for the full reviews.

All prices are for a UK double.

How we test memory foam mattress toppers

a mattress topper
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To make sure we cover off everything you might look for in a new memory foam topper, from whether it's actually supportive and comfy to how well it stays in place, we put them through rigorous testing in the the Good Housekeeping Institute lab and at home with the help of our panel.

Our experts assess the fit of each topper, looking at whether it sits smoothly under a bed sheet, and if the filling – in this case, memory foam – is distributed evenly.

While this is happening, we send the mattress toppers out to our home testers to curl up with night after night. We ask them to trial it for up to three weeks before sharing their verdict with us– in detail – including how comfortable it was to sleep on, whether they found it supportive and breathable, and if they would recommend it to others.

Finally, our experts collate all the data and feedback and award each topper an overall score out of 100. These are the ones that topped our test.

1
Best overall

Simba Hybrid Essential Topper

UK Approved(Esquire,Red,HB,GH,Country Living,Prima)
Hybrid Essential Topper
1
Best overall

Simba Hybrid Essential Topper

Now 10% Off

Score: 93/100

This topper is made with Simba's uniquely developed foam and a layer of pocket springs, making it a breathable and supportive design. So, while it isn't technically a memory foam mattress, it performs a similar role.

Impressing both our experts and at-home testers, it fitted mattresses securely and provided notable comfort. Because of its thickness, you may struggle to fold it up without help, but it is doable if you’re buying the topper for a sofa bed. Otherwise, you probably won’t want this to leave your bed – one person told us it felt like they “had a whole new mattress”. If you add in Simba’s B-Corp status, we think this is a worthy winner.

Key specifications

SizesSingle, small double, double, king, super king
Depth7cm
FeaturesStraps, washable cover
Trial period200 nights
2
Best with bamboo

Panda Hybrid Bamboo Mattress Topper

UK Approved(Esquire,Red,HB,GH,Country Living,Prima)
Hybrid Bamboo Mattress Topper
2
Best with bamboo

Panda Hybrid Bamboo Mattress Topper

Score: 93/100

The one to choose if you want the benefits of bamboo, this premium Panda design combines 2,100 micro-springs with orthopaedic grade memory foam and to completely transform your bed – giving you the feel of a brand-new mattress, without the hassle or expense of replacing it.

It also boasts a layer of breathable BioCell foam, a ventilated mesh border and an anti-slip base to prevent it from shifting during the night. The washable cover is made from bamboo, which is naturally anti-bacterial, temperature regulating and hypoallergenic.

The medium-firm design was a huge hit with all types of sleepers, who said it was comfortable, supportive and “luxuriously soft” to snooze on. Just note, it’s on the heavier side and will add significant depth to your mattress.

We also trialled Panda's Bamboo Mattress Topper, a 5cm design with a bamboo cover, which scored 89/100 in our tests.

Key specifications

SizesSingle, double, king, super king
Depth7.5cm
FeaturesAnti-slip layer, washable cover
Trial period30 nights
3

Simba Hybrid Topper

UK Approved(Esquire,Red,HB,GH,Country Living,Prima)
Hybrid Topper
3

Simba Hybrid Topper

Score: 91/100

Like our winners, this Simba design is packed with foam and pocket springs for an airy, well-supported sleep. Again, this proved a panel-pleasing combination – testers loved bedding down on the firmer cushioning.

In the lab, our experts noted that its fit was less exact, coming up slightly oversized. While this explains the difference in scores, it’s not anything that would drastically impact your sleep – and indeed didn’t for our panel of testers.

You can wash the cover too, and it’s suitable for storage (even if its size may make this tricky). Another premium buy.

Key specifications

SizesSingle, small double, double, king, super king
Depth7cm
FeaturesStraps, washable cover
Trial period200 nights
4
Best for depth

Emma Original Pro Topper

UK Approved(Esquire,Red,HB,GH,Country Living,Prima)
Original Pro Topper
4
Best for depth

Emma Original Pro Topper

Score: 88/100

If you want to be sure you won't feel a single spring through your topper, this one from Emma is a good bet as it’s nine centimetres deep – the highest on our list. There aren’t any straps, but a fitted sheet kept it in place on test.

Everyone raved about sleeping on it thanks to the cushioning and comfortable support. They all said they’d recommend it to others as well.

Read our full Emma mattress review if you want a matching mattress.

Key specifications

SizesSingle, small double, double, king, super king
Depth9cm
FeaturesWashable cover, flippable design
Trial period100-nights
5
Best for versatility

Emma Flip Topper

UK Approved(Esquire,Red,HB,GH,Country Living,Prima)
Flip Topper
5
Best for versatility

Emma Flip Topper

Score: 87/100

Flip flopping is no bad thing with this mattress topper – you can alternate between different support levels on either side (one’s soft, one’s firm) until you decide which is just right.

Our panel also liked that you could remove foam if needed, making the design even more flexible. It impressed when it came to comfort, support and overall quality, too. It sits smoothly, but there aren’t any straps, so you’ll need a well-fitting sheet to keep it in place, especially if you’re a fidgeter.

Key specifications

SizesSingle, small double, double, king, super king
Depth6cm
FeaturesDouble sided
Trial period100 nights
6
Best for hot sleepers

Origin Contour® Mattress Topper

UK Approved(Esquire,Red,HB,GH,Country Living,Prima)
Contour® Mattress Topper
6
Best for hot sleepers

Origin Contour® Mattress Topper

Now 20% Off

Score: 86/100

This topper features cooling gel-infused beads and a washable Tencel cover to regulate your temperature overnight. The five centimetre thick memory foam has also been crafted to relieve pressure and provide “cloud-like support” for all sleeping positions.

It did an excellent job of keeping panel members cool while they snoozed, and they said it was ultra soft and comfortable to lie on, too. “I would 100% recommend this topper, it changed the comfort of my mattress straightaway,” said one satisfied tester.

It was a little tricky to fit and the straps are on the short side, but once in place, there’s an anti-slip backing to prevent it from moving around. It’s also a little awkward to roll up, but that didn’t put our testers off – in fact, everyone said they would continue using the topper.

Key specifications

SizesSingle, small double, double, king, super king
Depth5cm
FeaturesRemovable, washable cover
Trial period30 nights
7
Best budget pick

Slumberdown Memory Fibre Airstream Mattress Toper

UK Approved(Esquire,Red,HB,GH,Country Living,Prima)
Memory Fibre Airstream Mattress Toper
7
Best budget pick

Slumberdown Memory Fibre Airstream Mattress Toper

Score: 83/100

A quick disclaimer: this isn't made with memory foam. Instead, it uses a polyester fibre filling that's designed to mimic memory foam's rebounding, supportive effect and keep you cool at the same time.

We've included it because it's notably cheaper than the rest of the products on our list, and our testers liked the product overall. While it was a smidge smaller than our double mattress, it's smooth to lie on and quiet at night. It lived up to its breathability claims too and all our testers said they'd recommend it.

Ultimately, it won't offer exactly the same cushioning as one of the genuine foam options above, but if you are on a budget, it's the next best thing.

Key specifications

SizesSingle, double, king
Depth4.5cm
FeaturesStraps, removable cover
Trial periodNone
8
Best for breathability

Dreams TheraPur ActiGel Cool Mattress Topper

UK Approved(Esquire,Red,HB,GH,Country Living,Prima)
TheraPur ActiGel Cool Mattress Topper
8
Best for breathability

Dreams TheraPur ActiGel Cool Mattress Topper

Score: 83/100

Designed to regulate your temperature thanks to cooling gel in the foam and a moisture-wicking (and machine-washable) cover, this is another good pick if you get hot at night. In fact, most testers found it nice and breathable.

It scored highly for comfort too, and its overall design ticked our boxes, lying smoothly. While it fitted well, it moved a little for some, and because it’s thick, it may be trickier to store. But everyone said it improved the quality of their sleep, which is the most important criteria, after all.

Key specifications

SizesSingle, double, king, super king
Depth4.4cm
FeaturesStraps, washable cover
Trial periodNone
9

REM-Fit Halo Memory Foam Topper

UK Approved(Esquire,Red,HB,GH,Country Living,Prima)
Halo Memory Foam Topper
9

REM-Fit Halo Memory Foam Topper

Now 20% Off

Score: 82/100

Boost your mattress with this spring-blocking and breathable design from REM-Fit. Our testers praised how quiet it was to lie on, how comfortable it was (for everyone!) and its overall quality design.

The fit was a bit mixed, so we’d suggest checking that the measurements match up to your existing mattress before you buy. And while it has sturdy elastic straps, it moved for some fidgety panellists. But generally, it was a hit – so much so that one tester said it was like having “a high-quality mattress on its own”. That’s great value for money, if you ask us.

Key specifications

SizesSingle, small double, double, king, super king
Depth4cm
FeaturesElastic straps and anti-slip base, machine washable cover
Trial period30 nights

Why trust the Good Housekeeping Institute

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The Good Housekeeping Institute has been testing products for over 100 years, developing rigorous protocols to ensure we recommend only the very best innovations on the market.

Priyankaa Joshi, our sleep and wellness editor, looks after our annual Sleep Awards, which involves testing hundreds of products, including mattresses, pillows, duvets and plenty more. As well as researching the latest launches to include, she takes part in panel testing, and writes up many of the reviews.

Kim Hawley, our senior sleep and wellness tester, has reviewed hundreds of sleep and wellness products, including mattress toppers, and is responsible for pulling all our panel and lab results together. She knows exactly what to look for when it comes to the best buys for your bedroom.

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Are memory foam mattress toppers hot?

Memory foam can retain heat, but the technology has come a long way since it first disrupted the mattress market. Now, it’s more breathable than ever – many newer designs are gel-infused or feature open-cell foam to encourage airflow – so even if you’re a hot sleeper, we wouldn’t rule it out. Just look for a topper that comes with a trial in case you still wake up sweating.


What's the lifespan of a memory foam mattress topper?

On average, you should replace your memory foam mattress topper every three to five years. Of course, how long it lasts depends on a range of factors including the quality of the memory foam, how often you use it and how well you look after it (cleaning a minimum of every six months is advised by brands).

If you feel your mattress topper is losing its shape or doesn't feel supportive any longer, it could be time to replace it. Equally, if it starts to smell bad (memory foam can trap odours), even after washing, it could be a sign to start shopping.


Should you flip a memory foam mattress topper?

Generally speaking, you shouldn't flip memory foam mattress toppers. This is because they're designed with specific top and bottom layers. Flipping your memory foam topper may mean you don't reap the full benefits.

That said, the Emma Flip Topper featured in this round-up is designed to be flipped. It has two sides for adjustable firmness depending on your needs.

Most brands advise rotating your topper to keep it in good condition. It's worth checking the care guidance on your chosen product be sure.


What is a good thickness for a memory foam mattress topper?

That depends on the level of comfort and support you're looking for. The best foam toppers range from two inches in thickness, all the way up to 11 inches.

Thinner toppers add a light layer of cushioning without drastically changing the feel of your bed, while deeper designs can significantly soften a firm or tired mattress and deliver a plush, sink-in feel. Just keep in mind that because they add substantial height and cushioning, your existing mattress still needs to provide a supportive base underneath.

The verdict on memory foam mattress toppers

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Comfortable, breathable and supportive, our joint winner, the Simba Hybrid Essential Topper, ticked all boxes for our panel and experts.

Our other joint highest scorer, the Panda Hybrid Bamboo Mattress Topper, was also popular and is made with a breathable bamboo cover. Testers said it was luxuriously soft to sleep on and offered plenty of support.

On a budget? The Slumberdown Memory Fibre Airstream Mattress Topper is a reliable choice. Though not made from traditional memory foam, the polyester fibre filling was breathable and quiet to lie on.

More expert-approved sleep buys

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We've also tested the best mattress, best pillows, the best bed sheets and duvet covers and the best sleep gadgets for the ultimate bedroom set-up.

Headshot of Priyankaa Joshi
Priyankaa Joshi
Sleep & Wellness Editor

Priyankaa is our sleep and wellness expert, specialising in expert-tested reviews and roundups on the latest health and fitness products. From walking boots to running machines, Priyankaa has written about hundreds of products and is passionate about providing in-depth, unbiased reviews. Plus, as an avid runner and gymgoer, she knows exactly what to look for when finding the right gymwear, fitness tracker or earphones.
Priyankaa has an MA in Magazine Journalism from Cardiff University and over five years’ experience in health and fitness journalism. Priyankaa has written for Stylist’s Strong Women Training Club, where she regularly wrote about diversity in the fitness industry, nutrition tips, training advice and her experience completing various fitness challenges. She has also written for a variety of publications including Business Insider, Glamour, Bustle, Metro, HuffPost UK, gal-dem and more.   Outside of work, Priyankaa can usually be found trying out a new gym class, seeking out London's best eats or watching a Spanish TV show in a bid to keep up her language skills. 

Headshot of Blossom Boothroyd
Tested byBlossom Boothroyd
Homes Testing Manager

Blossom is passionate about finding the best home products and appliances for GH readers. As head of the homes testing team, she has led reviews across multiple categories, from pizza ovens, and smart plugs to portable fans and hobs. She enjoys delving into the intricacies of products and refining testing protocols to ensure we’re testing them against their claims. Her aim is to find the top-performing products on the market, to help take the hard work out of housework. Blossom’s most notable accomplishment in the lab has been toasting 528 slices of bread in her quest to find the best toasters money can buy. In her free time, she openly admits to being a music geek and indulges her creative side through crocheting, baking, singing and writing.  

Headshot of Kim Hawley
Tested byKim Hawley
Senior Health & Fitness Tester

Kim Hawley is the Senior Health & Fitness Tester at the Good Housekeeping Institute, where she leads the independent testing of health, fitness, wellness and sleep products using evidence-led protocols and her extensive industry expertise.  

With more than 30 years' experience in the health and fitness industry, Kim has worked as a lead personal trainer, fitness instructor and health writer, teaching at some of London's leading health clubs, including The Harbour Club, David Lloyd and The Chelsea Club. Kim has a particular interest in women's health, especially pre-, peri- and post-menopause, and combines hands-on industry experience with rigorous product evaluation. From fitness trackers and smartwatches to home gym equipment, recovery devices, wellness tech, supplements and sleep solutions, she oversees comprehensive testing to help consumers make confident, informed purchasing decisions they can trust.

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