The average thickness of a mattress topper tends to be 2 to 4 inches, and what’s best depends on what feels comfortable to you. Generally speaking, though, the thicker the layer, the more pronounced the cushioning. Side sleepers looking for pressure-point relief for their hips and shoulders might consider thicker options. Back sleepers who want their firm bed to feel a bit less spartan might consider something thinner.

What It’s Like to Sleep On: While the High-Density Foam Mattress Topper contains solid foam, it conforms to a moderate extent and won’t hug your body too closely. A medium (5) feel makes the topper best suited to side sleepers up to 230 pounds and back and stomach sleepers under 130 pounds. The organic cotton cover is fairly breathable, which can help offset heat retention from the foam. ... A sleep surface that lacks proper support can lead to back pain, so using a high-quality topper can buy you some time while you seek out a new mattress.

If you’re struggling with back pain, a mattress topper might be in order. These accessories are much more affordable than a brand-new bed, but offer many of the same benefits, including the enhanced support and softness that can soothe a sore spine.