Mattresses should last 8 to 10 years. If you've had an uncomfortable bed for less than that, a mattress topper can reintroduce comfort to your sleep. Mattress toppers are great for softening a bed that's too firm, increasing motion isolation, and, in some instances, introducing cooling features, but if your bed is sagging, lumpy, or no longer supportive, a mattress topper is only a bandaid fix. If your bed is older than 10 years, look for a replacement in our best mattress guide.

It depends on your sleep needs. Down mattress toppers are plush and cushy, which is best for those who prefer a soft feel. On the other hand, memory foam and latex are both firmer materials with more support. Latex tends to be cooling, but you can also find special cooling memory foam mattress toppers as well.