It is said that school days are the best days of your life as you remain carefree and ignorant of career responsibilities. So, after you take a step ahead of this golden period, you head to your college and life takes a new turn. Well, this takes you miles away from home and you start listing things for assuring a hassle-free stay. Out of these, the bed on which you will be sleeping is the first thing to be taken into consideration.
No matter how good your bed looks, it should have a topper that would support the mattress. Even if the mattress looks old, the mattress topper would lend it a new life and a good night’s sleep. Now, get one of the best mattress toppers for college to make sure that the coming days are spent in peace.
In a hurry? The top rated Mattress Toppers for College after 25 hrs of research
- Very comfortable
- Relieves aches and pains
- Contours to body
- 3-year warranty
The Best Mattress Topper for College – Top Picks and Buyer’s Guide
Our Top 5 Picks
This topper is high quality and hypoallergenic. It is 2 inches thick and made of soft, visco-elastic memory foam. Finally, it is US Certi-PUR certified, meaning it is environmentally friendly. Read More...
If college days are about to knock your door, you must be getting ready with your bedding and luggage. When you are done backpacking, you can take out some time to have a look at this 2-inch foam mattress topper from Dreamfoam Bedding.
Designed to fit a twin XL bed, this gel swirl mattress topper, made of memory foam, will double your comfort and let you sleep in peace. Apart from contouring and enabling full pressure point relief, it circulates air perfectly due to the open cell technology and pulls the heat out, keeping the user cool and cozy.
Features and Specifications
CertiPUR-US accredited, this 2-inch gel swirl memory foam mattress topper guarantees comfort for long hours. Air circulation takes place with absolute perfection so as to keep the heat off the user, keeping the body cool.
Maintains ultimate pressure point relief and assures pure comfort for the user, no matter how long he/she wants to lie upon. Holds the ability to get rolled and compressed into a compact size that lets it slip easily into the packing box.
Good For
- Every type of sleeper (back, side, stomach, combination)
- College students
- Sleepers in all weight groups (light, average, heavy)
Pros
- Very comfortable – better than bed at home!
- Stays cool
- Long-lasting
Cons
- Color may be too bright – shows under sheets
- Has odor for the first few days
The Lucid topper is available in two, three, and four-inch thicknesses and provides lots of spine support. It is hypoallergenic, and the bamboo charcoal keeps you cool at night. The memory foam topper provides support to stabilize and support the lower back. Read More...
Now enjoy the coziest of slumbers on this memory foam mattress topper brought to you by Lucid. Having constructed out of bamboo charcoal, it results in moisture regulation and hence keeps the temperature pleasant for the user.
Also, there are no chances of odor emission that assures one a good night’s sleep. For having memory foam, one enjoys resting on the lower back and stays free of any sort of backache. Since memory foam is hypoallergenic, there is no growth of bacteria, thereby keeping the environment safe. Designed to keep your spinal alignment right, this 2-inch mattress topper is an excellent pick for college goers.
Features and Specifications
Twin XL mattress topper is constructed out of therapeutic memory foam that plays a key role in discarding pressure point pain. Provides complete support to the lower back, which cuts down the possibility of back pain. Memory foam keeps all bacteria at bay and makes the sleeping environment clean as much as possible.
Temperature and moisture are both regulated owing to infused bamboo charcoal. Absence of any type of bad odor, making the user sleep peacefully. As far as the dimensions are concerned, the mattress topper measures 37.5 x 79 inches (L x W).
Good For
- Every type of sleeper (back, side, stomach, combination)
- College students
- Sleepers in all weight groups (light, average, heavy)
Pros
- Very comfortable – better than bed at home!
- Relieves aches and pains
- Contours to body
- No smell
Cons
- May overheat
- Delicate – not to be moved often
- May be too firm
Linenspa’s topper is highly rated, high quality, and environmentally friendly. It is available in two, three, and four-inch thicknesses, and it provides support and relieves pressure points. The gel memory foam keeps the topper cool, comfortable, and breathable throughout the night. Read More...
Get rid of your ordinary memory foam topper and bring home this super comfy 2-inch mattress topper by Linenspa. Plush, compact and breathable, this gel swirl mattress topper is made of high-quality memory foam that allows no sweat to accumulate and keeps the user at ease.
Accredited under CertiPUR-US, this top-quality memory foam topper involves the use of no harmful chemicals and hence assures highest safety standards. The sleep surface has been made quite soothing to lie upon so as to let users enjoy undisturbed sleep. Spine alignment too is guaranteed for users suffering from major back problem, and this is what makes the Linenspa 2-inch mattress topper stand out.
Features and Specifications
Comfortable, trendy and safe, Linenspa brings on the 2-inch mattress topper made of brilliant quality memory foam. The super soft memory foam keeps the spine rightly aligned and keeps the body weight in the right balance. For being infused with gel, the memory foam is quite light and breathable.
With a ventilated design, it allows air to circulate well and regulates the temperature accordingly. Compact in size as it has dimensions of 79 x 37.5 x 2 inches. Does not emit any odor and hence lets one sleep comfortably.
Good For
- Every type of sleeper (back, side, stomach, combination)
- College students
- Sleepers in all weight groups (light, average, heavy)
Pros
- Very comfortable – better than bed at home!
- Relieves aches and pains
- Contours to body
Cons
- May be too squishy
- Has odor for the first few days
Best Price Mattress makes a line of mattress toppers that range in thickness and vary between memory foam and gel memory foam. Each option is environmentally friendly and sleeps cool. The memory foam responds and contours to your body and relieves back and neck pain. Read More...
Bettering your sleeping conditions during college days will now be possible with this 2.5-inch memory foam mattress topper. Being CertiPUR-US certified, it has an exclusive ventilated design that results in increased air flow. Moreover, it completely eliminates the trapped body heat that lets the user enjoy the coziest of slumbers.
Assuring pressure-relieving comfort, the memory foam topper will eliminate pressure points and improve your sleeping climate to a good extent. This twin size mattress has been designed in such a manner so as to fit sheets of standard sizes. Breathable and soft, this mattress topper is worth considering for having peaceful nights.
Features and Specifications
With a ventilated design, this 2.5-inch mattress topper has been constructed out of memory foam that makes it super soft. Airflow is triggered for having a ventilated design, which eliminates the heat trapped within the user while sleeping.
What makes this memory foam stand authentic is its accreditation by CertiPUR-US. Total weight of the mattress topper is 26.4 pounds while it has dimensions of 52.8 x 9.8 x 16.1 inches.
Good For
- Every type of sleeper (back, side, stomach, combination)
- College students
- Sleepers in all weight groups (light, average, heavy)
Pros
- Very comfortable – better than bed at home!
- Relieves aches and pains
- Contours to body
Cons
- May be large
- Has odor for the first few days
This two-inch topper distributes weight evenly and relieves pressure points. It features Premium Sure Temp memory foam to stay cool and comfortable at night. The premium foam provides comfort and relieves pressure on the back and neck. Read More...
Sleep Innovations brings an incredibly soothing 2-inch mattress topper made of memory foam assuring coziness at its best. It’s a full-size mattress topper that caters to all, be it back, side or stomach sleepers. What makes it durable is its SureTemp memory foam that results in natural air circulation and temperature regulation.
As it distributes the body weight evenly, the mattress topper is able to minimize the pressure point, making it easier to lie upon for hours. Affordable and easy to maintain, this mattress pad by Sleep Innovations will keep you out of all worries in regard to sleep.
Features and Specifications
2-inch full-size mattress topper made of premium quality memory foam that makes it easier for all to sleep comfortably. SureTemp mattress topper has been designed to give proper support to your body and enhance your level of comfort.
High on breathability, this mattress topper distributes the body weight evenly so that one does not wake up with a pain at the back. Airflow is flawless as the user is devoid of heat and, therefore, stays cool throughout the night.
Good For
- Every type of sleeper (back, side, stomach, combination)
- College students
- Sleepers in all weight groups (light, average, heavy)
Pros
- Very comfortable – better than bed at home!
- Relieves aches and pains
- Long-lasting
Cons
- May yellow
- Has odor for the first few days
Buying Guide – How to Shop for a Mattress Topper for College
Who does not love another layer of comfort for a good night’s sleep? Mattress toppers are like a blessing for all those who are not satisfied with how their bed feels. A night of inadequate and uncomfortable sleep can ruin the following day.
Most often, college-goers complain about the poor and uncomfortable mattresses, which causes difficulties in sleeping. In these situations, getting a whole new mattress can be problematic to manage. So, a lot of people opt for mattress pads or toppers for a night of softer and cozier sleep. Mattress pads or toppers are also beneficial for people suffering from joint pain.
There are many types of mattress toppers or pads that differ in thickness, material, and size. The correct mattress topper for an individual depends on their sleeping habits. While some add additional support and firmness to the mattress, some add to the cushioning. The material that is used in a topper determines whether it will add cushioning or make it firmer. To pick the right one, you need to know which one will be suitable as per your needs. They can sometimes be a little heavy on the pocket as well.
Here, we have gathered all the information you need to know the various types of mattress toppers and make a sound decision when investing in one.
First, let’s begin with the points of why you should invest in a mattress topper.
Do I Need A Mattress Topper?
- Too firm: When your existing mattress is too firm, a mattress topper can do wonders. It creates a soft upper layer, which makes way for a more comfortable sleep and less firm.
- Bad mattress in college: Mattress in college dormitories can be painful and lack comfort. Toppers are one of the best solutions in these cases as it makes the mattress softer and offers extended support.
- RV or camper bed: Some college dormitories offer RV or camper beds for students, which can be extremely uncomfortable to sleep on. They generally offer minimal support and comfort. Mattress topper can considerably improve the sleep surface in such cases.
- Guest Beds: If you are staying away and have issues like back and joint pains, a good sleeping surface is mandatory, which is most often unavailable. You can easily carry your mattress topper to add to your bed for a comfortable sleep. They can be easily packed in a compact shape, which is travel-friendly.
- Couple Friendly: Numerous couples face difficulty with mattresses owing to different sleep habits. You can easily modify one side of the bed using a mattress topper for added firmness and support.
- Pain and pressure relief: Some types of mattress toppers like memory foam and latex ones conform to the body shape of the sleeper, which can help aid spine and other painful points like hips, shoulders, lower back, and neck.
- Cooling effect: Some mattress toppers are gel features or use other aeration technology, which helps in maintaining a cooler surface for a deeper night’s sleep.
Depending on whether you want additional firmness or enhanced softness, there are mattress toppers available that have different material usage. Let us know which one of them will be best suited for you.
- Natural Latex: Natural latex mattress toppers offer exceptional support, and it comes in different sizes. They are generally anti-microbial, durable, and also motion isolating. It is made without any fillers and additives or petrochemicals. Natural latex mattress toppers are much easy on the pocket than latex mattresses delivering similar comfort.
- Memory Foam: Known to be one of the best types of mattress, memory foam mattress toppers provide ample firmness while also ensuring a soft and comfortable feel. They are free of any heavy metals, CFCs, mercury, and lead use.
- Cool Gel Memory Foam: Cool gel memory foam mattress toppers offer the same functionality as any other memory foam mattress without the heat associated with it. The gel use and aeration technology in the mattress topper makes it fresh and offer a comfortable night’s sleep. These mattress toppers are hypoallergenic, anti-microbial, and also supports motion isolation. They have no toxin fillers and work as an outstanding pressure point reliever without any sagging.
- Natural Wool: These mattress toppers have 100 percent eco-wool filling, which not only keeps it cool but also offers ample support to the neck, back and shoulders. They have moisture-wicking technology while also providing sufficient insulation. They are free of any harsh chemicals, toxins, bleaches, or dyes.
Purchasing a Mattress Topper for College
Next, let’s see some key factors which you should keep in mind when looking for a mattress topper.
#1 Material
Like you have read above, different materials in mattresses offer different functionalities and comfort levels. While memory foam and latex mattress toppers conform to the shape of the sleeper’s body, relieving pressure and improving the spinal alignment. In contrast, cool gel and natural wool mattress toppers offer a heat resistant sleep throughout the night.
One needs to know his need for the type of mattress topper to choose the best-suited one and make an informed decision.
#2 Thickness
Mattress toppers come in different sizes and thicknesses. Most commonly, mattress toppers are available in 1 to 4-inches thickness. The width of the topper must correspond to the mattress surface.
For instance, if the mattress is thick and firm, the topper needs to be thicker to correctly adjust the level of comfort, support, and softness. On the other hand, if the mattress is thin, then the right choice of topper should be thin and not too heavy. The thickness of the mattress topper also determines its level of heat. Thinner toppers are cooler than the ones which are thicker in size.
#3 Density
Some people think the density of a mattress has no relevance to its comfort level and firmness, but it is not the case. The density of a mattress topper directly affects the comfort of a mattress, just like its thickness.
High-density memory foam mattress toppers provide enhanced comfort and firmness better than low-density mattress toppers. At the same time, remember that high-density mattress toppers cause more odor, and are hotter than the low-density ones.
#4 Firmness
Firm mattresses are best for people suffering from spinal alignment disorders, joint pains, and back pains. Highly firm mattress toppers are ideal for such people. You need to find the right balance in the firmness and softness of a mattress topper. Like a considerably firm mattress requires a soft topper while a soft mattress will need a firm topper.
But, if you need a firm mattress to sleep on, it can be a good idea to fit a medium-firm topper on a medium-firm mattress to hold the firmness of the bed and make way for a night of better and comfortable sleep.
#5 Durability
Different types of mattress toppers differ in their lifespan, and the durability also depends on a few other factors like model and material. Memory foam and latex mattress toppers are generally durable and last for several years without any sagging or indenting in the topper.
Memory foam, latex, and wool material mattress toppers are considered to be the most durable types of toppers, while feather or synthetic toppers are least durable.
#6 Motion Isolation
While some mattresses toppers have a great ability to isolate motion in its specific parts, some mattress does not support this feature. Motion isolation refers to isolate any movement or motion on the mattress, in turn, providing an undisrupted sleep throughout the night. This feature is ideal for a couple having different sleeping habits.
Memory foam and latex mattress toppers are considered to have the best motion isolation while wool and feather mattress toppers fall short of it.
#7 Portability
Portability is an essential feature for mattress toppers. Toppers need to be clean from time to time and removed from the mattress surface. For this reason, having a portable feature is vital.
To ensure that a mattress topper is easily portable, you need to consider the weight of the topper. Bulky toppers will lack the movement, unlike lightweight mattress toppers. For times when you have guests over and need a quick fix for the sofa, mattress toppers can be an excellent solution.
#8 Sleeping Position
A lot of people ignore this factor disregarding its importance when selecting a mattress topper. There are different kinds of sleepers, like side sleepers, back sleepers, and stomach sleepers.
For side sleepers, the mattress should sink underneath the pressure points to maintain a proper spine alignment, which is otherwise affected by the side sleeping, which creates an unnatural spine curvature placing deep pressure on the neck, shoulders, and hips.
For stomach sleepers, the pelvis and hips are always at a pressure as it sinks from the body, creating a misaligned position. Low density and thin mattress toppers can be the right choice for stomach sleepers.
For back sleepers, generally, the alignment of the spine is natural and proper. But even then, if you are facing issues of back, hip, and shoulder pain, a high-density topper can be the right choice. This kind of mattress topper will not only offer more support but also prevent your hips and pelvis from sinking in the mattress.
Care and Maintenance of Mattress Toppers
Now that you have complete knowledge about the types of mattress toppers, their functionality, and which one should be perfect for you, we can move to maintain and caring for the mattress toppers.
We all know the importance of keeping the bedding clean in our homes. Cleaning them frequently not only maintains proper hygiene but also keeps allergies away.
Mattress toppers are delicate owing to their material use like memory foam, latex, wool, or feather. It is for the same reason that they need to be taken proper care of. It is important to remember that it is a terrible idea to clean mattress toppers in machines. It only spoils the make of them but also disrupts the structure and durability.
To correctly maintain your mattress topper, follow the below easy steps.
- Remove the mattress topper from the bed and get it ready. Ideally, place it in a well-ventilated and lit area.
- Now, you can use a vacuum or any hose attachment to draw any loose and dry dirt on the mattress topper. You can also use a mild brush to remove the trash from the top of the mattress.
- Then, check the mattress for any stains, spills, or unpleasant odor. You may even take a look at the natural wear and tear of the mattress topper.
- Spot clean the stains and spills using a gentle solution and rubbing it on the stains. You can blot the liquid in a towel or cloth and gently rub it until the stain is gone.
- In places where you find an unpleasant odor, treat it with powder baking soda. To avoid such smells, especially of sweat, you should air out your mattress topper often.
- After you have the dirty areas, let the topper dry in a well-ventilated place, preferably under direct sunlight. It is essential to ensure that the mattress is completely dry before you put it back to the bed. Always air dry mattresses.
- You can finally use a clean sheet or cover to protect the topper from unwanted spills, stains, and dirt.
It is good to remember that there are times when cleaning a mattress does the trick, and there are also times when you need to replace your mattress topper. In case, there are too many signs of wear and tear, and the material seems to thin out, consider replacing the mattress topper with a new one.
