Back pain and poor sleep are deeply connected. If you have back pain, it could be challenging to get a good night’s rest. Your pain might be made worse because the mattress you own is too soft, too firm, or broken down from years of use. Buying a new mattress for back pain often means spending $1,000 or more.

If you don’t want to invest in a new mattress, a mattress topper is a good alternative. A topper can help address the issues of your current mattress and extend its life by years. The right mattress topper can also help relieve your back pain. Keeping your spine, hips, and shoulders aligned and supported throughout the night can mean fewer aches and pains in the morning.

In our review of the best mattress toppers, we highlight our recommended brands and outline how we tested each topper and how to choose the right topper for your needs.

Best mattress toppers for back pain in 2025

• Nolah Mattress Topper: Best Overall
• Bear Pro Topper: Best Cooling Topper for Back Pain
• Saatva Graphite Topper: Best Luxury Topper for Back Pain
• ViscoSoft Reflex Gel: Best Value Topper for Back Pain
• Avocado Eco Organic Latex: Best Pressure Relief for Back Pain
• Helix GlacioTex Mattress Topper: Best Soft Topper for Back Pain
• Layla Memory Foam Topper: Best Firm Topper for Back Pain

Comparing the best mattress toppers for back pain

What we look for in a mattress topper for back pain

We looked for the following features when choosing the best mattress toppers:

Material type

A mattress topper’s material affects how well it supports the spine, hips, and joints. We looked for toppers made from memory foam or latex. These materials offer excellent contouring and weight distribution.

Having the memory foam [topper] has been really helpful and adjusting to my posture, no matter what position I'm in, it helps with my back pain tremendously.”

—Respondent in our July 2025 sleep accessories survey

Density and firmness

We looked for toppers that have good density and firmness to support the lower back. A high-density topper will also last longer.

Cooling

It’s important that a mattress topper doesn’t trap heat and make you sweaty and uncomfortable. We looked for toppers with cooling features that make them breathable.

Pressure relief and contouring

A mattress that contours to your body will help keep your spine, shoulders, and joints in a neutral position. We looked for toppers with excellent pressure relief to help reduce back pain.

Nolah Mattress Topper: Best Topper for Back Pain Overall

We chose the Nolah Mattress Topper as our Best Topper Overall because it earned a 5/5 for both ease of changing positions and edge support. It also has one of the highest pressure relief scores, at 4.75/5. People with back pain may benefit from its support and structure.

Our Top Pick

Nolah Mattress Topper

Best Topper Overall

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• Helps you change positions more easily and has strong edge support
• Memory foam cradles without making it more difficult to move

• Excellent pressure relief can help minimize back pain

Nolah Mattress Topper features

• Material type: Memory foam and cotton
• Thickness: 2”
• Firmness level: Medium-medium firm
• Cooling: Breathable foam
• Pressure relief or ergonomic design: High-density foam for pressure relief

Why we chose the Nolah Mattress Topper as the Best Overall Topper for Back Pain

We chose the Nolah Mattress Topper as the Best Overall Topper for Back Pain because its high-density foam creates a comfortable and supportive sleep surface, earning one of our highest pressure relief scores (4.75/5). The Nolah’s edge support, position change support, and motion isolation make it an accessible choice for the average sleeper with back pain.

Nolah Mattress Topper pros and cons

Our testing experience with the Nolah Mattress Topper

When we tested the Nolah Mattress Topper, our testers appreciated the comfort and high quality of the materials. “This mattress topper has a quilted blanket-type cover that is soft and feels like a nice little added extra layer of comfort,” one tester said. We also like that the topper has elastic corner straps to help keep it in place.

The topper’s two-inch design means it offers support and pressure relief without making it more challenging to switch positions. “I didn't notice any bounce to this foam since there isn't any technology like latex that would give it that more springy feel,” one tester said. “Instead, this air foam design did a good job of cradling me but not preventing my movements when switching positions.”

The Nolah Mattress Topper’s support is important for people with back pain, because toppers that sink make it harder to move around at night. The extra effort it can take to move around may cause sleepers to wake up with more pain, not less.

With a 4.75/5 rating for pressure relief, the Nolah Mattress Topper excels at keeping the neck, shoulders, and spine aligned. This alignment is crucial for back pain relief. Its all-over support minimizes pressure buildup and can help reduce pain. “This topper feels amazing on both the soft and firm mattress,” one tester said. “On the soft mattress, I think it works well for medium and light sleepers, offering good sinkage in all the areas I need, but great support in my upper back. If you are a medium or heavy sleeper, I would recommend this on a firmer mattress to get that same support without compromising spinal alignment by not being too soft.”

While we like the Nolah, at $449 for a queen size, it’s one of the most expensive mattress toppers on the list. And it only earned a 2/5 for responsiveness. This might be a drawback for you if you dislike the feeling of having to wait for the memory foam to soften underneath you after changing positions.

The Nolah customer experience

• Trial period: 30 nights
• Shipping: Free
• Warranty: Limited lifetime
• Financing: Yes, through Affirm

Customer service

You can contact Nolah customer service by:

• Phone: Call 866-403-6615, available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT
• Email: support@nolahmattress.com
• Chat: Live chat via the bottom right corner of the website, available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT

Payment options
Nolah accepts Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express, Google Pay, and PayPal. Financing is available through Affirm.

Bear Pro Topper: Best Cooling Topper for Back Pain

We chose the Bear Pro Topper as the Best Cooling Topper for Back Pain because it earned a 5/5 for its cooling capabilities. When we tested this topper, its temperature only increased by six degrees—much less than the other toppers on our list. The Bear Pro Topper is an excellent choice for hot sleepers or those living in warmer climates.

Bear Pro Topper

Best Cooling Topper

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• Earned a 5/5 for its cooling capabilities
• Removable cover for easier cleaning

• Responsive and supportive

Bear Pro Topper features

• Material type: Memory foam
• Thickness: 3”
• Firmness level: Medium
• Cooling: Breathable foam and cover
• Pressure relief or ergonomic design: Memory foam for pressure relief

Why we chose the Bear Pro Topper as the Best Cooling Topper for Back Pain

We chose the Bear Pro Topper as the Best Cooling Topper for Back Pain because it earned a 5/5 for its ability to prevent heat buildup. The breathable memory foam and knit cover help keep you cool and comfortable during the night. If you sleep hot or live in a warm climate, this topper may be your best bet for a cool night's sleep. 

Bear Pro Topper pros and cons

Our testing experience with the Bear Pro Topper

When we tested the Bear Pro Topper, we appreciated that the cover is removable and washable, unlike some other toppers. “There is a silky, almost waterproof-feeling cover with a comfortable honeycomb stitching,” said a tester. We do wish that the topper came with straps, like the Nolah does. Without them, you have to hope a fitted sheet will keep the topper in place.

And when our testers lay down on the Bear Pro Topper, they liked its supportive feel and cool memory foam. After our testing, the temperature only increased by six degrees, which is much less than other toppers. If you sleep hot or live somewhere warm, the Bear Pro Topper is a great choice, because staying cool at night can help contribute to a better night’s sleep.²

Our testers found the edge support on the Bear Pro Topper to be poor, earning it a rating of 2/5. “The edge support isn't amazing,” one tester said. “With the top of the cover being a more slippery material, I do feel like I slide off when standing up more than just the mattress alone. The topper adds 3 inches, so depending on the height of your mattress and how tall you are, your legs could dangle.”

If you have mobility issues or need help standing up, the Bear Pro Topper might not be the right choice for you.

The Bear customer experience

• Trial period: 30 nights
• Shipping: Free
• Warranty: 2-year limited warranty
• Financing: Yes, through Affirm and ShopPay

Customer service

You can contact Bear customer service by:

• Phone: 844-311-0035, available Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET
• Email: support@bearmattress.com
• Live chat: Available via the chat icon on the website, available Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET
• Calling or visiting a viewing room

Payment options
Saatva accepts most major credit cards, Venmo, PayPal, and ShopPay. They offer financing through Affirm and ShopPay.

Bear offers a rotating selection of discounts you can explore on their website.

Saatva Graphite Topper: Best Luxury Topper for Back Pain

We chose the Saatva Graphite as our Best Luxury Topper for Back Pain. We like that it offers a luxurious, hotel-quality feel while providing excellent spinal support and pressure relief. The Saatva Graphite Topper makes it easier to shift positions and stay aligned throughout the night. Ease of movement and strong alignment can be key to reducing back pain while sleeping.

Saatva Graphite

Best Luxury Topper for Back Pain

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• Cooling graphite helps keep you from getting too hot at night
• Easier to change positions and good edge support

• 3” topper has a luxe feel

Saatva Graphite Topper features

• Material type: Memory foam with graphite
• Thickness: 3”
• Firmness level: Medium
• Cooling: Graphite
• Pressure relief or ergonomic design: Memory foam offers spinal support

Why we chose the Saatva Graphite Topper as the Best Luxury Topper for Back Pain

We chose the Saatva Graphite Topper as the Best Luxury Topper for Back Pain for many reasons. It offers an excellent pressure-relieving sleep experience. Plus, you can enjoy the types of perks you’d expect from a high-end brand, such as a 180-night trial period. The Saatva Graphite Topper features strong accessibility features, cooling graphite, and supportive memory foam. These qualities make it a great choice for someone who wants a high-quality topper that helps minimize pain.

Saatva Graphite Topper pros and cons

Our testing experience with the Saatva Graphite Topper 

When we tested the Saatva Graphite Topper, we liked its plush, high-quality fabric and thick memory foam. “The cover is a very soft cotton blend, but does feel of high quality,” one tester said. “I do not think this cover would pill or pull out stitching. The foam itself is pretty plush but has a strong responsiveness.”

Our testers thought this topper was comfortable and supportive, making it easier to switch positions and stand up without the edge collapsing. “It’s very easy to switch positions,” one tester said. “There is a bouncy feel to it that pops you up as you move from your side to your back. I feel like I am being hugged by the mattress, not like I am sinking or on top of the mattress itself. It does not shift as I am moving around, because the bottom fabric is holding onto the mattress well.”

These features are worth looking for if you have mobility or strength concerns.

One main drawback we found in the Saatva Graphite Topper is that it does not fit a mattress perfectly. Instead, it leaves an inch or so gap between its edge and the mattress. This could be a drawback if you like to sleep near the edge of the mattress.

Saatva customer experience

• Trial period: 180 nights
• Shipping: Free
• Warranty: Limited 1-year
• Financing: Yes, through Affirm

Customer service

You can contact Saatva customer service by:

• Phone: 877-672-2882, available 24/7
• Email: info@saatvamattress.com
• Live chat: Available via the chat icon on the website, 24/7
• Calling or visiting a viewing room

Payment options 

Saatva accepts Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express, Google Pay, and PayPal. Financing is available through Affirm.

Saatva offers a $225 discount off purchases of $1,000 or more to adults age 65 and older, military members and their families, first responders, health care professionals, government employees, teachers, and college students. This discount cannot be combined with other offers.

ViscoSoft Reflex Gel Topper: Best Value Topper for Back Pain

We chose the ViscoSoft Reflex Gel Topper as the Best Value Topper for Back Pain. At $105 for a queen, it is the most affordable option on our list while still providing excellent spinal support to help minimize back pain. With a high pressure relief score (4.5/5) and an accessible construction, the ViscoSoft Reflex Gel Topper is a great option when you’re on a budget.

ViscoSoft Reflex Gel Topper

Best Value Topper for Back Pain

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• The most affordable mattress topper on our list
• Supportive and accessible

• Adjustable straps for a better fit

ViscoSoft Reflex Gel features:

• Material type: Memory foam
• Thickness: 2”--3”
• Firmness level: Medium
• Cooling: Gel-infused foam
• Pressure relief or ergonomic design: Supportive memory foam

Why we chose the ViscoSoft Reflex Gel as the Best Value Topper for Back Pain

We chose the ViscoSoft Reflex Gel mattress topper as the Best Value Topper for Back Pain because it offers excellent pressure relief and spinal support for a more affordable price. ViscoSoft’s topper is highly accessible and comfortable, but it doesn’t cost hundreds of dollars. 

ViscoSoft Reflex Gel pros and cons

Our testing experience with the ViscoSoft Reflex Gel

Our testers were first struck by the ViscoSoft Reflex Gel’s plush feel and appealing look. “The cover feels like a soft knit fabric and I love the speckled navy print,” one tester said. “This topper looks high quality, but it’s very light, especially in comparison to our other toppers.”

The lightness of the topper and its adjustable straps make this a solid choice for people with strength or mobility issues. Our testing team found it easier to move this topper around than other models they were reviewing.

And when our testers lay down on the topper, they thought it was supportive and helped to minimize any pressure buildup. “This mattress being 3 inches in depth and with a plush foam design conforms to your body nicely,” one tester said. “When changing positions I can feel the foam slowly regaining form but it doesn't make me feel stuck in the topper. With this type of foam there isn't a bouncy responsiveness to it, more a slow cradling sensation.”

This type of support is great for helping keep your spine aligned. It can also help reduce any pressure buildup that could cause soreness when you wake up.

The ViscoSoft Reflex Gel mattress topper received one of our lowest responsiveness scores (1/5). We don’t recommend it if you move around a lot and dislike how long it takes the memory foam to adjust to your body. It also retains heat, so you may be uncomfortable if you’re a hot sleeper.

ViscoSoft customer experience

• Trial period: 90-day
• Shipping: Free delivery
• Warranty: 5-year warranty
• Financing: Yes, through AfterPay

Customer service

You can contact ViscoSoft customer service by:

• Phone: 844-888-4726
• Email: support@viscosoft.com
• Live chat: available on the website

Payment options 

ViscoSoft accepts most major credit cards, as well as GPay, PayPal, Amazon Pay, and ShopPay.

Avocado Eco Organic Latex: Best for Pressure Relief for Back Pain

We chose the Avocado Eco Organic Latex as our Best for Pressure Relief for Back Pain because it earned one of our highest scores for pressure relief (4.75/5). With excellent accessibility scores, cooling capability, and high-quality materials, the Avocado Eco Organic Latex is an all-around great option for people who have back pain.

Avocado Eco Organic Latex

Best Pressure Relief for Back Pain

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• Superior pressure relief
• Excellent support changing positions and sitting on the edge

• High-quality materials

Avocado Eco Organic Latex features

• Material type: Latex
• Thickness: 2”-3”
• Firmness level: Plush or Medium
• Cooling: Breathable latex
• Pressure relief or ergonomic design: Talalay latex for pressure relief

Why we chose Avocado Eco Organic Latex as the Best for Pressure Relief

We chose the Avocado Eco Organic Latex mattress topper as the Best for Pressure Relief because it’s made of cushioning latex that helps support the spine, hips, and joints with minimal pressure buildup. We also like that Avocado offers a 3” Talalay latex option, known for its strong pressure-relieving abilities. 

Avocado Eco Organic Latex pros and cons

Our testing experience with Avocado Eco Organic Latex

When we unboxed the Avocado Eco Organic Latex mattress topper, our testers were immediately impressed by the look and feel. “I have to admit this topper is pretty amazing,” one tester said. “The latex’s bounce and the soft organic cover feels like no other topper I have tried.”

When we lay down on the topper, we noticed that it was both comfortable and supportive. “The topper has this amazing sinkage to it but immediate responsiveness at the same time,” one tester said. “The organic cotton cover feels like a really soft airy gauze that isn't too loose on the topper with just the right amount of thickness to it. It feels breathable, cool, soft, bouncy and I am an immediate fan.”

Some testers noted that the Avocado Exo Organic Latex topper is so supportive that it improves the edge support of the mattress. This is a great benefit if your mattress has soft edges or is getting older. Plus, the topper made it easier for testers to shift positions.

“Changing positions on this topper was a breeze,” one tester said. “The latex design creates a bouncy surface that springs you out of each position. I felt like I was resting on a cloud but could easily change positions and get right into another comfortable position without waiting for the materials to recover. It's like no other experience I have had on a topper!”

Its accessibility makes the Avocado good for people with back pain. It allows you to move more easily without straining your muscles or worsening any aches and pains.

Avocado customer experience

• Trial period: 100 nights
• Shipping: Free
• Warranty: 1-year
• Financing: Yes

Customer service

You can contact Avocado customer service by:

• Phone: 657-385-8849
• Live chat: available on the website

Payment options 

Avocado accepts most major credit cards as well as PayPal, ShopPay, Amazon Pay, and GPay. You can finance through Affirm or ShopPay, or use your FSA/HSA to pay through Sika.

Helix GlacioTex: Best Soft Mattress Topper for Back Pain

We chose the Helix GlacioTex as our Best Soft Mattress Topper for Back Pain due to its unique combination of memory foam and innerspring coils. These materials give this topper a plush and supportive feel that’s good for people with back pain who still want a soft topper.

Helix GlacioTex

Best Soft Mattress Topper for Back Pain

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• Unique combination of innerspring coils and memory foam
• Made with a cooling fabric

• Plush sleep surface

Helix GlacioTex features

• Material type: Memory foam and steel microcoils
• Thickness: 3.75”
• Firmness level: Soft
• Cooling: Cooling cover
• Pressure relief or ergonomic design: Coils for pressure relief

Why we chose Helix GlacioTex as the Best Soft Mattress Topper for Back Pain

We chose the Helix GlacioTex as the Best Soft Mattress Topper for Back Pain because it has a unique combination of memory foam and steel microcoils, providing a plush and supportive sleep experience. Typically, soft toppers or mattresses provide less support and create more pressure points. Instead, the Helix has a layer of microcoils that distributes pressure evenly.

Helix GlacioTex pros and cons

Our testing experience with Helix GlacioTex Topper

When we tested the Helix GlacioTex mattress topper, our testers liked how plush the topper felt. “This 3.75-inch topper feels soft, cooling, and luxurious,” one tester said. The Helix is slightly thicker than the other toppers on our list, which is what contributes to its softness.

We tried out the Helix topper on both a soft mattress and a firm mattress. On a soft mattress, this topper didn’t provide enough support to be comfortable. If you have a soft mattress, the luxury firm option might be a better choice. But on a firm mattress, this topper worked very well. “With a firm mattress, this topper performed amazingly,” one tester said. “I felt great pressure relief in my lower back and the topper gently hugged my body giving a cloud-like sensation. In every position (side, back, and stomach) my body felt supported, comfortable, and pressure relief was a 10/10.”

Because of how plush this topper is, our testers noted a sinking sensation that made it more difficult to shift positions. And its height, when paired with a mattress, might make it so that your feet don’t touch the floor if you’re sitting on the side. If you have strength or mobility issues, you might want a thinner topper.

Helix customer experience

• Trial period: 100 nights
• Shipping: Free
• Warranty: Limited lifetime
• Financing: Yes, through Affirm

Customer service

You can contact Helix customer service by:

• Phone: Call 831-777-5976, available Monday through Friday from 12–6 p.m. ET
• Text: Texting HELIX to 67069, available Monday through Friday from 12–6 p.m. ET
• Chat: Live chat via the bottom right corner of the website, available seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET
• Email: help@helixsleep.com
• Website: Submit a contact form

Payment options

Credit card payment options include Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover. Other options include Shop Pay, Amazon Pay, PayPal, and Google Pay. 

Layla Memory Foam: Best Firm Topper for Back Pain

We chose the Layla Memory Foam as our Best Firm Topper for Back Pain because its dense memory foam provides a supportive sleep experience. It helps minimize pressure buildup by helping keep the spine, hips, and joints aligned. The Layla Memory Foam is a great choice for people who prefer a firmer mattress or who have a softer mattress that they want more support from.

Layla Memory Foam Topper

Best Firm Topper for Back Pain

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• Firm memory foam for supportive sleep
• Copper-infused foam for durability

• Not hard to change positions
• Good edge support

Layla Memory Foam features

• Material type: Copper-infused memory foam
• Thickness: 2”
• Firmness level: Firm
• Cooling: Breathable fabric
• Pressure relief or ergonomic design: Copper-infused memory foam provides lasting spinal support

Why we chose Layla Memory Foam Topper as the Best Firm Mattress Topper for Back Pain

We chose the Layla Memory Foam Topper as the Best Firm Mattress Topper for Back Pain because its dense memory foam provides a supportive surface that keeps your spine, hips, and joints aligned without pressure buildup. It earned a 4/5 for position changes and a 4.5/5 for edge support. These results show it’s an especially good choice for people who move a lot at night or have strength or mobility issues.

Layla Memory Foam Topper pros and cons

Our testing experience with the Layla Memory Foam Topper

When we tested the Layla Memory Foam mattress topper, we first noted that it had the same hexagonal fabric design that we’ve noticed on other Layla products. The design makes it look luxurious and expensive. Our testers liked that the topper had this soft fabric versus the slick, waterproof cover some other toppers have.

When our testers laid down, they loved how much easier it was to change positions. “It does not have any bounciness to it, so it doesn't feel like I am being sucked in. This is one of the firmest toppers I have tested, and would be great for someone who needs more support from a softer mattress.”

This firmness makes the Layla a great choice if you have a softer mattress or one that’s aging. It increases support and makes the edges firmer, making it easier to get in and out of bed. “The edge support is really good on this topper,” one tester said. “I do not feel like I would slide off when sitting or laying down on the edge. The material of the cover allows for more grip, and it's not nearly as slippery as some of the other covers you see.”

Thinness can also make a topper more accessible. “This topper is only 2", so on a standard 11" mattress with a standard bed frame, I (as a person who is 5' 6”) had no issues reaching the floor or standing up from a sitting position.”

This support is great for someone with back pain who isn’t getting enough support from their current mattress. But the Layla Memory Foam Topper earned our lowest score for cooling (1/5). So those who sleep hot or live in a warmer climate may find it too warm or uncomfortable. 

Layla customer experience

• Trial period: 30 nights
• Shipping: Free
• Warranty: 5 years
• Financing: Yes

Customer service

You can contact Layla customer service by:

• Phone: 855-358-1676
• Live chat: Available via the chat icon on the website, 24/7

Payment options 

Layla accepts major credit cards, Amazon Pay, and PayPal. Financing is available through Affirm.

Our process testing the best mattress toppers for back pain

Our team has spent thousands of hours testing mattresses, pillows, and mattress toppers to find the best ones for older adults. We consider the features that are most important to you, such as spinal support, pain relief, cooling, and motion isolation so you can feel confident in your purchases.

Spinal alignment support 

Our testers lay down on the toppers on their backs, stomachs, and sides. We noted whether the testers’ spines remained supported and aligned in each position.

Support under lower back and hips

We tested the toppers for how well they supported the lower back and hips. When these parts of the body are unaligned or end up sinking into the topper, then the risk of back pain and pressure buildup increases.

I had hip and leg surgery, which also affects my back. I have bad hip and back pain. The mattress topper helps cushion my back. It helps to relieve the tension."

—A respondent in our July 2025 sleep accessories survey

Pain and pressure relief

We tested the toppers for how well they distributed a person’s weight and minimized pressure buildup, which typically means a part of the body is unaligned. We took special note of our necks, shoulders, spines, and hips.

Firmness and responsiveness

We tested how firm and responsive the mattress topper was by noting how quickly the topper’s surface bounced back after movement. This is particularly important for people who like to shift positions during the night.

How mattress toppers help relieve back pain

Mattress toppers help to relieve back pain by providing additional support and pressure relief to your current mattress. If you have a mattress that is too soft, too firm, or sags from age, a mattress topper can fix these issues for a fraction of the cost of a new mattress.

Mattress toppers help keep your body aligned correctly. When your body is misaligned, a specific part of you, such as your hips or shoulders, may press into the mattress more than the rest. This misalignment can increase, leading to soreness and aches. A mattress topper can address your specific needs, allowing you to get a better, more restful night’s sleep.

What to look for in a mattress topper for back pain

When choosing a mattress topper for back pain, remember that your needs are unique. For example, you might benefit from a firmer topper if your current mattress doesn’t offer enough support. Some general features to look out for include:

Material Type

The type of material used for the topper is important. Memory foam tends to be responsive, and latex has the most support. If you sleep hot, consider a cooling fabric, such as gel.

Density & Firmness

The density and firmness of a topper make a difference in its support and durability. The denser the topper, the longer-lasting it tends to be. Medium to medium-firm is usually best for back support.³

Thickness (Loft):

A topper’s thickness also influences its functionality. 2–4 inches is ideal for the best pressure relief. It’s also important to consider how tall your current mattress is, since you don’t want to make it so high it’s hard to get down.

Pressure Relief & Contouring

A topper that shapes to you and helps to evenly distribute your weight is best for back pain, since it minimizes pressure buildup and keeps your spine in a neutral position. You want to look for a topper that supports and cradles you without causing you to sink in too much.

Cooling Properties

Hot sleepers or people who sleep in a warm climate may want a topper with cooling properties. This is especially important with memory foam, which tends to trap heat.⁴

Motion Isolation

Motion isolation refers to the topper’s ability to absorb movement so you aren’t woken up by any bouncing or shifting. If you sleep with a partner or a pet, memory foam does a great job of isolating movement.

Certifications & Safety

Some mattress toppers have certifications for their use of sustainable or non-toxic materials. If you’re concerned about the materials and safety of your topper, double-check to see what types of certifications they have.

Sleep Position Compatibility

Your needs will depend on your sleeping position. This is because different parts of the body experience pressure buildup based on how you lie down. For example, you might want a firmer topper if you sleep on your back or a softer one if you sleep on your stomach.

Tips for managing back pain

Back pain is a serious issue that affects many people. In our March 2025 survey of 300 older adults who recently bought a mattress, 65% of respondents reported experiencing back pain.⁵

If you have back pain, consider using a pillow to help maintain your spinal alignment while you sleep. You can read more in our guide to the best pillows for back pain. Combining a pillow with a topper can help address some of your back pain issues, which should, in turn, result in better, more restful sleep.

Some other strategies to help manage back pain include:

• Physical therapy
• Acupuncture
• Exercise (as approved by your doctor)
• Pain medications

How much do the best mattress toppers for back pain cost?

The mattress toppers in our list range from $105–$498 for a queen size. When choosing the right mattress topper for your budget, consider the other perks or benefits that are being offered. These include free shipping, how long the warranty is, and the length of the trial period.

How to save money on mattress toppers

The easiest way to save money on a mattress topper is to buy it while it’s on sale. Look for seasonal specials such as Memorial Day or Labor Day. Sometimes companies will offer first-time buyer discounts or coupons if you sign up for their email list.

Some companies let you use your health savings account (HSA) or flexible spending account (FSA) to purchase a topper, which can also save you some money.

Frequently asked questions

What type of topper is best for back pain?

A medium to medium-firm topper is best for back pain because it offers the most support and even weight distribution.

How firm should a topper be to help lower back pain?

A mattress topper that is medium to medium-firm is the best for lower back pain.

Can a topper fix a sagging mattress?

Depending on how bad the sagging is, a topper can sometimes help to fix the issue. Generally, it’s not recommended to use a topper to fix a sagging mattress.

Should back sleepers use a firm or soft mattress topper?

Back sleepers should use a firm mattress topper for the best spinal support and alignment.

Questions? Email us at reviewsteam@ncoa.org