Best Latex Mattress Toppers: 10 Options for a More Comfortable Bed

An uncomfortable bed stands in the way of good sleep—and when you’re not able to buy the best mattress just yet, there’s a solution. According to Dr. Kellen Scantlebury, physical therapist and founder of Fit Club NY, a quality mattress topper can be a great way to ease pain and add comfort to your sleep routine. Though you’ll find toppers made out of all types of materials, latex mattress toppers have some unique advantages. Unlike memory foam, which tends to sink beneath your weight and mold to your form, latex toppers are known for being bouncy and buoyant, providing enough resistance to cushion the joints. They’re also breathable, making them a popular option for hot sleepers, and they’re one of the most durable and longest-lasting types of mattress toppers on the market.

Our top latex mattress topper picks

How to choose a latex mattress topper

Finding the perfect option for a comfortable night’s sleep will mean combing through a lot of options, because this type of topper comes in a variety of styles and options to suit every price point and sleep need. Here are a few easy ways to narrow down your choices:

Know the difference between Dunlop and Talalay

Latex mattress toppers come in two basic styles: Dunlop and Talalay. These styles stem from two different production methods, with the Talalay method resulting in a softer and bouncier topper and the Dunlop method creating toppers that are heavier and denser but also more durable. Because the production method for Talalay toppers is more involved, it is often more expensive.

But whether to choose Dunlop or Talalay is only one consideration: You’ll also want to look at the other factors that impact your comfort, like the topper’s height and firmness level, as well as practical considerations like price point, return policy, and mattress size.

Check the ILD rating

The best measure of a latex mattress topper’s firmness is its’ ILD rating. ILD stands for “impression load deflection,” and it’s a firmness scale that tops out at about 50 ILD. The higher the ILD, the firmer the mattress topper will be.

Consider any pain issues

According to Scantlebury, the first step in choosing a good mattress topper when you are experiencing pain is identifying where the pain is centered in your body: “Usually for low back pain, I suggest an extra-firm mattress topper,” he says. And then a moderate-to-firm topper is best for anyone with neck pain, just something that can give them a little more support. The more your body sinks into the mattress topper, the less support you have, so typically, people with back and neck pain find that to be a little less comfortable.”

Factor in your sleep position

Sleep position is also a major factor in choosing the right topper. As Scantlebury describes, there are three main sleeping positions: stomach, back, and side. “Side sleepers typically will go with a softer mattress. If you’re sleeping on your side, your hip bones, in particular, may dig into a firmer mattress topper, and that can be uncomfortable,” he shares. “So anyone who is a side sleeper, I suggest they get a softer topper to allow the topper to contort around their hips and other bony areas.” Side sleepers may be drawn to the softer texture of Talalay latex for that same reason or a very plush Dunlop-style topper.

“If they are back sleepers, I encourage them to have more of a medium-firm mattress topper, not super soft, and not super firm,” Scantlebury says. “Maintaining that spinal alignment during sleep really helps them to sleep comfortably.”

For stomach sleepers, Scantlebury suggests an extra-firm style. “You want to stay away from a softer mattress topper because it will facilitate something called ‘anterior tilt’, which puts more strain on your low back. So, I try to help reduce that strain on their low back by encouraging them to get a firmer mattress topper if they are stomach sleepers.”

What is a latex topper?

Latex mattress toppers are meant to be positioned on top of your mattress and below the fitted sheet. They’re useful for adjusting the firmness level of your sleep surface and for providing extra comfort and support.

Natural latex is made from the liquified sap of rubber trees, which is harvested, processed, and poured into molds. Synthetic latex uses a similar production process, but instead of being derived from rubber sap, it’s produced from petroleum compounds. While synthetic latex is cheaper and more sturdy, it can also be stiff, as it lacks the classic elasticity and bounciness of natural latex.

Many toppers on the market are actually a blend of natural and synthetic latex, but if you’re seeking the highest-quality option available, then all-natural latex is the way to go. So, how can you tell if your latex mattress topper is made of all-natural latex vs. a synthetic blend? Check to see if the product has recognized third-party certifications, such as from GOLS or the Eco Institute. If it’s GOLS-certified, that means it contains at least 95% organic latex. And if it’s eco-INSTITUT-certified, then it will contain 100% natural latex fibers.

How much does a latex topper cost?

Latex mattress toppers vary wildly in price, depending on factors like size and height. Twin-sized latex mattress toppers can be found for $100 or less, whereas the most deluxe California King toppers max out at over $900. But for an average queen-size topper with a 2-inch height, expect to spend between $200-400 for a quality latex topper and over $500 for a deluxe latex topper.

Another factor that affects price is whether the cover is included or sold separately. Although it’s not necessary to use a cover with your topper, covers are usually machine washable, so using one will help you keep your topper clean and reduce wear and tear. Covers can also add comfort, cooling effects, and style.

Many of the cheaper latex mattress toppers on the market are available with their cover sold separately for an additional fee, averaging around $100 for a queen-sized cover. The higher the price-point for the latex mattress topper, the more likely it is that the cover will be included.

Who are latex mattress toppers right for?

Latex mattress toppers are a great choice if you want to breathe new life into an old mattress, soften up a too-firm mattress, or add support to a mattress that’s grown soft and saggy.

There are many different types of mattress toppers to choose from, including memory foam and down, but latex has some qualities that set it apart. It’s bouncier and more buoyant than memory foam, making it ideal for those who dislike memory foam’s sinkage. The bounciness of latex also gives it an edge over traditional down toppers, which can tend to flatten quickly.

According to Scantlebury, the superior thickness, elasticity, and bounce of latex would also be beneficial to people experiencing physical pain, especially in their neck and back.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

How long does a latex mattress topper last?

Most retailers offer a minimum 1-year warranty on their latex mattress toppers, and some offer a 5-year warranty or more. Since latex is a durable material, a well-cared-for natural latex topper should last for many years.

Where can I buy a latex mattress topper?

Latex mattress toppers can be purchased online and delivered to your home, often with free shipping included. You can also shop for a latex mattress topper in person: most major mattress retailers also sell mattress toppers. However, call ahead to ensure that they offer the latex mattress topper of your choice.

Is latex or memory foam better for a mattress topper?

According to Scantlebury, whether to choose latex or memory foam depends on the specific needs of your body. Latex toppers typically offer more bounce and resistance, whereas memory foam can sink underneath your weight and mold to your form. “The bounce factor in latex would be beneficial for anyone experiencing back pain, and also particularly beneficial for stomach sleepers as well.”

Are latex mattress toppers worth it?

Latex mattress toppers are often more expensive than memory foam or traditional down toppers, but their unique bounciness, resistance, and support justify the higher price. And with a little research, you can also find quality, budget-friendly latex mattress toppers too. If you’re struggling with physical pain or with an uncomfortable mattress, a latex mattress topper is definitely worth checking out.