Memory Foam Mattress Toppers

Memory foam pillow-top mattresses let you try memory foam for less

Of the various types of mattress toppers available, memory foam pillow tops are the most common choice. Memory foam mattresses have become popular among consumers in recent years for several reasons, but their high cost is the biggest drawback. A memory foam mattress topper provides the feel of a memory foam mattress, but at a fraction of the cost.

Often advertised as being the ultimate sleep experience, memory foam conforms to the contours of the body, which minimizes motion and reduces the likelihood that tossing and turning will disturb your sleeping partner. It's also an option for those with arthritis or other aches and pains, according to user reviews writer by consumers who suffer from these afflictions. By molding to the body, memory foam provides more support for joints than other mattress toppers can offer, thus alleviating common body pains and allowing for a comfortable night's sleep.

For those who suffer from allergies, there are several memory foam manufacturers that offer mattress toppers that are hypoallergenic and/or anti-bacterial, such as Sleep Studio and Royal Pedic. Tempur-Pedic, best known for memory foam mattresses, also makes foam mattress toppers. Most come with a cotton or similar cover that can be removed for laundering.

A common complaint from those with memory foam mattresses is that the foam material absorbs body heat and causes overheating during the night. However, there are several memory foam mattress toppers available that alleviate this problem. Sleep Better is one brand that offers toppers with "temperature-smart technology," which allows the foam to breathe, keeping the body cool. Owners do note that memory foam can feel harder in cooler weather. Toppers can also be found in the egg-crate style, which create air pockets for the foam to breathe easier.

Some consumers complain that new memory foam has an unpleasant and somewhat chemical odor to it. To prevent this, it's recommended that the mattress topper be allowed to air out for a few days before being added to the bed. Toppers that come with removable covers sometimes have a less noticeable smell.

Out of all the types of mattress toppers, memory foam has proved to be the most durable. The material easily conforms to the body when laying down, then regains it shape when you get up. As with all products, memory foam isn't immune to wear and tear, and some users have noticed that after several years, their memory foam mattress topper doesn't spring back into shape as quickly as it did when it was new. Most toppers come with some sort of warranty or a set trial time, so be sure to consider that if durability is a concern.

Memory foam mattress toppers are available for all mattress sizes; standard queen-sized toppers range from $50 to $600. They are available in various thicknesses, from 2 to 6 inches, and with various accessories, like a Coolmax cover which wicks perspiration away from the body for temperature regulation, which will affect the price. Most customers have found a mattress topper for less than $100 that they are very happy with. There are also toppers costing several hundred dollars that offer extreme thickness and different covers, but the level of comfort seems to remain the same.