Mattress toppers: compare size, material and care
Start with the change you want: a softer surface, a cooler night, a different feel or a washable layer between you and an ageing mattress. A topper sits on the mattress you already have, so assess that mattress first; a topper cannot fix a sagging frame or a broken spring. This guide compares the common materials, explains the measurements that trip people up, and lists what to check before the packaging is opened, because opened bedding usually cannot be returned.
Materials compared
| Material | Feel | Worth knowing |
|---|---|---|
| Memory foam | Slow, contouring, motion-isolating | Retains warmth; gel or open-cell versions run cooler. Off-gassing smell for a day or two is normal. Density (lb/ft³) predicts durability better than thickness. |
| Latex | Springy, supportive, cooler than memory foam | Heavier and pricier; natural latex is the most durable topper material. Not suitable for latex allergies. |
| Fibre-fill or "pillow-top" | Soft, cushioned, like a thick duvet | Cheapest and most washable; compresses over months. Best for softening a firm mattress rather than adding support. |
| Bamboo-rayon or cotton cover with fill | Cool, breathable surface | Cover fabric affects feel more than the fill; check whether the cover is removable and machine-washable. |
| Wool | Firm-soft, temperature-regulating | Warm in winter and cool in summer; spot-clean only; expensive. |
Compare the complete specification
- Dimensions: measure your mattress length and width. Canadian and US bed sizes match (Twin 38×75 in, Twin XL 38×80, Double/Full 54×75, Queen 60×80, King 76×80, California King 72×84), but European "double" and "king" do not, so check the numbers instead of the size name.
- Thickness: a 2 in topper softens; 3 in changes the feel; 4 in is a new sleep surface. Add the thickness to your mattress depth when checking fitted sheets and protectors; a 12 in mattress with a 4 in topper needs 16 in or deeper pockets.
- Material and density: for memory foam, 3 lb/ft³ or higher lasts; under 2.5 lb/ft³ softens within a year.
- Care: check the core and the cover separately. A washable cover does not mean the foam core can go in a washing machine; foam cores are spot-cleaned only.
- Straps or skirt: elastic corner straps keep a topper from migrating; a full skirt holds better on an adjustable base.
- Returns: read the applicable bedding conditions before opening the product. Kelorix accepts returns of toppers only while sealed; damaged or defective toppers are always covered.
Read certification claims precisely
CertiPUR-US certifies flexible polyurethane foam for low emissions and the absence of certain flame retardants and heavy metals; it does not certify the entire topper, the cover, or promise a particular comfort level. OEKO-TEX Standard 100 covers the textile cover, not the foam. Check the programme's certification guidance and verify the claim for the actual manufacturer and product, not just the brand.
Sleeping hot, sleeping cold
Memory foam traps body heat; in a Canadian house heated to 21 °C that is fine for most people in winter and uncomfortable for some in July. If you sleep hot, choose gel-infused or open-cell foam, latex, or a fibre topper with a bamboo-rayon cover. If you sleep cold, plain memory foam or wool works in your favour.
Care instructions vary by model
Tempur-Pedic, for example, distinguishes washable covers from foam components in its product-care instructions. Use the instructions supplied with your chosen topper rather than applying another brand's washing method. Let a compressed, roll-packed topper expand for 24–72 hours in a ventilated room before judging its feel.
Write down your mattress measurements, current sheet depth and preferred feel before you shop. That checklist is more useful than assuming a "cooling" label or a particular density guarantees the result.
Compare available products
Shop Mattress Toppers, bedding and sheets, and check current prices, sizes and availability on the product page. Free shipping across Canada applies to every order, including king-size toppers; see our shipping and returns information before ordering.
Reviewed 22 September 2026 by Kelorix. This guide explains buying considerations; it is not a claim of hands-on testing.