A mattress topper is like an extension to a mattress that resides on top of the main mattress. The aim of this extra removable layer on top is to provide cushioning and support. It works well for a firm mattress by helping to provide a soft feel and at the same time, it also helps if an existing mattress is in a bad state or is sagging.

The mattress toppers in Australia are different from mattress pads since unlike a topper, the main purpose of pads is to protect a mattress from moisture, dust, and bacteria. Although a pad also offers, some level of cushioning it is not the same as a topper.

The mattress topper is available in several materials each have their benefits, although care must be taken if one is allergic to some materials. The different types of mattress toppers available are memory foam, cotton & polyester-blend, latex, wool, feather. Memory foam one is very comfortable and helps distributes the weight of the body in a good manner.

The cotton & polyester-blend one is by far the most economical one while the latex one is naturally resistant to dust mites and bacteria. It is also more expensive than the rest. Woolen toppers help regulate temperature and hence are more expensive while the feather ones offer the softest feel.

Types of Mattress

There are many types of mattress available and getting the right one is essential to help get a good night’s sleep. Main types of mattresses are:

• Memory Foam: This is a mattress that offers great comfort and support and is especially useful for those who sleep sideways. It conforms to shape of the body as one sleeps and helps distribute the weight of the body evenly. Thus, this prevents anyone else from being disturbed. It is not necessary to flip it and it will also not sag from middle or other sections.

• Gel: This is a smart mattress that contains gel. It is different from the memory foam mattress. The main feature is that it helps dissipate the body temperature evenly.

• Pillow Tops: This mattress has an extra layer of upholstery added to the top of a mattress that benefits the entire body and supports the back and rest of the body.

• Innerspring: Such a mattress has inner support of metal spring. The inner support consists of coils to help a mattress conform to the body.

• Water Bed: As the name suggests, a water bed contains water however, the level of free-flow of the water can be restricted as per an individual's liking.  

• Air Bed: An air bed is similar to a water bed, but uses air instead of water. It is possible to adjust the level of air affecting the firmness of a mattress.

• Latex Mattresses: This uses latex material which is natural, while the memory foam one makes use of synthetic material.

Mattress Topper & Mattress - A Comparison

There is a clear distinction between the two, a mattress-topper, and the mattress itself. A mattress topper available in Australia cannot replace a mattress although it can help as a temporary solution.  In the case where a new mattress is very hard, there is the option of getting a good mattress-topper rather getting a new mattress. It is necessary to buy a good quality mattress in order to get a good night’s sleep. Alternatively, one can get a cheaper one and invest in a mattress-topper as well.

Here are pros and cons of opting for a mattress-topper and mattress:

• A mattress losses its comfort factor over a period of time and one may develop back pain too. Instead of rushing off to get a new mattress which may not be suitable for several reasons, it is possible to opt for a mattress-topper that can provide the same comfort level. But this will work on temporary bases.

• A mattress-topper is useful and offers a good layer to sleep on. It cannot be considered as an alternative for a bad mattress though it is a good temporary solution. A wide range of mattresses is available unlike a mattress-topper as already mentioned in this article. Special purpose mattresses, like those for heat dissipation, help with back pain, and memory foam is some of the popular ones.

• A mattress topper is useful in the case where a mattress is not bad but has become uneven.

• Using a topper allows multiple levels of firmness, both soft and hard in case of a hard mattress.

There are any ill effects of sleeping one bad mattress. In fact, there can also be several long term effects of sleeping on a bad mattress. Some of the common effects include drowsiness, back pain, obesity, throat irritation, heat condition, memory issue, aging, sore joints, etc. At times, there is no other option besides replacing an old mattress with a new one. However, other times there is also an option of investing in a goosedown quilt Australia in the cases when you require a softer feel.