The 10 Best Mattress Toppers For Back Pain, According To Sleep Experts

Material: Graphite-infused memory foam | Height: 3 inches | Cover: Yes | Warranty: 1 year | Trial: 180 nights

Among Saatva’s lineup of mattress toppers, its 3-inch graphite memory foam model is our favorite for back pain. If your current mattress is unyielding, this hugs your body and relieves pressure in key areas without sacrificing support. The cooling properties of the graphite gel plus a breathable cotton cover benefits hot sleepers. If you fidget a lot in your sleep, four anchor straps keep the topper in place. The 1-year warranty is meager given the price, but Saatva also provides a 180-night trial period, which is the longest of any pick on this list. It’s made in the U.S., and the foam is certified by CertiPUR-US, which means it’s free from harmful chemicals that can sometimes be found in foam-based products.

For mattresses that are too soft, we recommend Saatva’s 1.5-inch high-density foam or natural latex toppers for a subtle boost in support. There’s also the 3-inch Saatva Micro-Coil Topper with a responsive feel reminiscent of the popular Saatva Classic mattress.

What our writer and the reviews say: I slept on the Saatva Graphite Memory Foam Mattress Topper when my back injury flared up last year and it provided me with much-needed relief. At the time I was sleeping on a firmer mattress, so it was a welcome addition. It should suit any sleep style, but I particularly liked it for back sleeping as it did a phenomenal job of distributing my weight in that position. A five-star reviewer also writes they’re “really happy” with the topper, saying it sleeps cool and is worth the money.

Molecule Copperwell Topper (Queen)

Material: Copper-infused memory foam | Height: 3 inches | Cover: No | Warranty: 5 years | Trial: 30 nights

Quality sleep is crucial for athletes to recover from workouts and injuries. Granted, you don’t need to be an Olympian like Molecule spokesperson Michael Phelps to benefit from a Molecule Copperwell Topper, but it is designed for people with active lifestyles in mind. This 3-inch foam topper is infused with copper and has an open-cell structure for enhanced cooling. Its seven-zone ergonomic design has four targeted support zones plus relief areas along the shoulders, hips and knees. Molecule intentionally doesn’t include a cover with its topper so you can feel the full effects of its breathability and support. Still, we strongly advise wrapping it in a quality mattress protector to safeguard it from spills and stains.

What the reviews say: Reviews are sparse yet positive for the Molecule Copperwell Topper. “I have massive back and hip pain and this has helped significantly,” claims one sleeper. Meanwhile, this Target customer says, “This mattress topper helped to relieve severe hip/back and shoulder pain overnight. It’s surprisingly comfortable and cooling.”

Material: Gel-infused memory foam | Height: 2 to 3 inches | Cover: Optional | Warranty: 3 years | Trial: 30 nights

This Linenspa memory foam topper is a serviceable solution if you want a quick fix on a limited budget. Available in a 2- or 3-inch profile, the latter is a better choice if you want more of a sink-in feeling. You can pay extra to add a removable, machine-washable cover (otherwise it’s not included). Although it’s infused with gel, several user reviews suggest this foam topper doesn’t sleep very cool. That drawback aside, this Linenspa topper is a regular Amazon bestseller thanks to its affordability and versatility—and it’s available in non-standard and RV bed sizes. It’s also a great choice for college students who want to upgrade a dorm mattress on the cheap, as well.

What the reviews say: One Amazon customer who purchased the 3-inch Linenspa topper says, “I suffer from aches and pains from aging, working very hard all of my life and having multiple children both naturally and through C-section. This bed topper has been a godsend.” Another reviewer who bought the 2-inch version says it’s “a really great product for the price [that has] helped ease my lower back pain.”

Material: Talalay latex  | Height: 2 inches | Cover: Yes | Warranty: 10 years | Trial: 100 nights

Birch is Helix’s eco-friendly sibling brand, and its latex mattress topper is cooling and well-suited for side and back sleepers who struggle with pain. It consists of Talalay latex—which hugs similar to memory foam but without trapping heat—as well as organic wool and cotton for extra plushness and breathability. (Wool also acts as a natural fire retardant.)

Like most organic bedding, this option is on the pricier side due to the costs associated with making products that meet higher environmental and safety standards. Birch uses sustainably-sourced materials that are Global Organic Textile Standard and Greenguard Gold certified. Fortunately, Birch hosts frequent sales and regularly bundles free gifts with purchase. You get 100 nights to try it at home, too.

What the reviews say: One shopper says, “I can finally sleep without hip bursitis pain. Plus, it doesn’t make me sweat, has the perfect amount of cushioning and it doesn’t move around on top of my mattress.” Another customer adds, “My aches and pains are gone and I’m sleeping wonderfully. Even my tension-induced migraines have abated.”

Material: Gel-infused memory foam  | Height: 3 or 4 inches | Cover: Yes | Warranty: 5 years | Trial: 90 nights

This high-density foam topper from Viscosoft is a good remedy for a mattress that’s too soft to sufficiently support you. Most sleepers can get by with the 3-inch model, but larger individuals should consider the 4-inch option. Both have a medium-firm feel with a 3.5-pound density that can help reduce pressure on your joints and back. The foam is perforated and infused with cooling gel, which the manufacturers says helps dissipate heat. There’s also a washable bamboo rayon cover with a mesh backing for added ventilation and anchor straps for stability.

The Viscosoft High Density Mattress Topper is a suitable alternative for college students looking for something firm but not cost-prohibitive. The 5-year warranty more than covers a typical undergrad career.

What the reviews say: “Our mattress topper is amazing,” starts one glowing testimonial. “The softness and support give my husband and me a great night’s sleep. The best part is that we are not waking up with achy backs like we used to.” A self-proclaimed parent who bought this Viscosoft mattress topper for their college-aged student adds, “Her roommate liked it so much that they ordered one as well.”

Material: Copper gel-infused memory foam  | Height: 2 inches | Cover: Yes | Warranty: 5 years | Trial: 30 nights

Layla’s memory foam topper caters to side sleepers or anyone who likes a lusciously plush bed. However, this softness is balanced with proper support—the 2-inch memory foam layer compresses under hips and shoulders to prevent misalignment and discomfort. According to the company, an infusion of copper gel beads double as a cooling and antimicrobial agent. The memory foam is CertiPur-US Certified, which means it’s free from a range of harmful chemicals. The topper’s cover is a pillowy, hexagonal pattern that’s woven from a blend of polyester, viscose and lycra.

Although the 30-night trial period seems brief compared to other brands in this mattress topper’s price range, it’s still enough time for your body to adjust. Plus, Layla has free returns along with a 5-year warranty.

What the reviews say: One Layla shopper says: “My current mattress is pretty firm and I wanted something that would help relieve some pressure on my back. This topper made a massive difference.” Another five-star review reads, “I was having bad shoulder pain and my girlfriend was having a lot of hip pain. Now we’re staying asleep rather than tossing and we’re staying cool while we rest.”

Material: Dunlop latex  | Height: 2 to 4 inches | Cover: Yes (4-inch model only) | Warranty: 5 years | Trial: 120 nights

The Turmerry Latex Mattress Topper appeals to eco-conscious shoppers and sleepers with a Goldilocks mindset who want their bed to feel “just right.” You can select a 2- or 3-inch topper with four firmness levels (soft, medium, firm or extra firm), or a 4-inch, dual-sided (soft/medium) topper that also comes with a cover. Either way, this Dunlop latex topper has a five-zoned design that’s firm along the head and ankles, soft around the shoulders and knees and medium-to-firm in the midsection to support your back and hips. Turmerry’s commitment to sustainability is evident from its bevy of certifications, which include Global Organic Latex Standard, Eco-Institut and Oeko-Tex. What’s more, the company plants a tree for each topper sold. You get 120 nights to try it at home, risk-free.

What the reviews say: A Turmerry shopper who bought the 3-inch medium version of this latex topper says: “Our (relatively new) mattress was giving me hip and shoulder pain, as well as running too hot for both of us. I can only describe the topper by saying it is like being gently held by a cloud. No more pain, no more overheating—it’s wonderful.”

Material: Tempur-Material | Height: 3 inches | Cover: Yes | Warranty: 10 years | Trial: None

Sharing a bed with a partner who suffers from back pain can be an unpleasant experience for both parties. If you toss and turn in an attempt to get comfortable, a Tempur-Adapt mattress topper can solve two issues. First, 3 inches of Tempur-Material fit to the contours of the body for pressure relief. Second, it handily absorbs motion that might disturb a co-sleeper. Anchor straps secure the topper to mattresses up to 13 inches tall, and maintenance is straightforward thanks to a machine-washable cover. This is the most affordable way to bring home a Tempur-Pedic, and it includes a 10-year warranty like the brand’s full-fledged mattresses. However, it’s still among the priciest bed toppers out there. Also note that Tempur-Pedic doesn’t accept returns for its mattress toppers, so it’s wise to have a backup plan if it doesn’t meet your expectations.

What our editors and the reviews say: Senior sleep editor Bridget Chapman has tested and slept on this topper in the past. She says it’s truly cloud-like comfort, adding, “I love a soft, cushiony feel for back and side sleeping, so this topper was right up my alley. It’s doughy and super pressure relieving.” One customer adds, “Even when my husband turns or makes some movement by my side, I can hardly hear or feel anything. Our sleep quality has been great.” Another reviewer says, “I would toss and turn with my old mattress, but now I am able to get a quality night’s sleep without as much movement throughout the night.”

Material: European white down | Height: 3 inches | Cover: Yes | Warranty: 3 years | Trial: 60 nights

If memory foam or latex aren’t your thing, consider this luxurious down mattress topper from Parachute. Its dual-chamber design features two layers of premium European white down that’s been ethically sourced following Responsible Down Standard protocols. A three-dimensional baffle box construction ensures this topper doesn’t go lopsided overnight so you can be sufficiently supported, although you still need to fluff it regularly. A 100% cotton sateen shell is cozy without trapping too much heat. If this bed topper doesn’t meet your expectations within 60 days, Parachute allows free returns by mail or at over 5,000 Happy Returns locations nationwide if you don’t live in vicinity of a Parachute retail store.

What our editors and the reviews say: “Bye bye back pain,” heads one glowing review. “[It’s] soft enough to provide a nice cushion for my firm pocket spring mattress, but dense enough that I don’t feel like I’m sinking into it.” Another shopper says, “I’ve had several [featherbeds] and this is by far the nicest one. I was having some back pain and have been feeling much better since sleeping on this.” Chapman adds, “This topper is even fluffier than it looks. It’s definitely a good fit for anyone after a featherbed feel.”

Material: Gel fiber | Height: 2 inches | Cover: Yes | Warranty: N/A | Trial: 30 nights (via Amazon’s return policy)

Whether you deal with down-related allergies or prefer not to buy animal products, this 2-inch pillow top mattress topper can provide back pain relief. Don’t let the brand name confuse you—this is a down alternative topper filled with gel fibers secured by a box quilting construction. It has a soft, brushed polyester cover and corner anchor straps to keep this topper in place as you sleep. There’s no clear warranty information provided, nor is there a proper trial period, but this mattress topper does boast overwhelmingly positive Amazon reviews—70% of which are five stars. It’s also one of the least expensive toppers out there so it’s a fairly low-risk investment.

What the reviews say: One Amazon shopper who says they have scoliosis and osteoarthritis in their lower back writes, “Contrary to popular opinion, a firm mattress isn’t always what the doctor ordered. [It] just doesn’t work for me. On impulse I bought one of these and tried it. Wow. [I had] my first night of good sleep and easy rising in the morning in a long time.”