Mattress Toppers | Foam Mattress Pads

An old or uncomfortable mattress can cause restless nights and poor sleep quality. In addition, a worn mattress can lead to aches and pains that affect your ability to function at optimal levels while you are awake.

If you are not ready to purchase a new mattress or are not prepared to make the purchase investment, the addition of a foam mattress topper can go a long way in enhancing support and promoting restful sleep.

This is particularly the case if your existing mattress is too hard or too soft. When placed on top of an existing spring or foam mattress, a pad adds firmness or softness, depending on the type and quality you buy. As a result, your new mattress pad extends the life of your existing mattress.

There are a wide variety of mattress toppers available from retail outlets and online stores. They come in all bedding sizes and are constructed with memory foam, natural latex, or ordinary foam material. You will also find hybrid mattress pads that combine different foam and gel materials.

Foam pads come in all sizes to fit mattresses that range from twins to California kings. Pads thickness is available from two to four inches, Foam toppers also come with different density levels – soft, medium and firm – to provide support to meet your individual preferences.

Pads made from memory foam are durable and provide full-body support. When new, the pads have an odor that quickly goes away in a day or two. Most people let the mattress pad "air out" after removing the packaging and before putting it on the bed.

Memory foam molds to your body and holds heat, which some enjoy and others do not. There are also ventilated memory foam pads and mattresses on the market that alleviate the heat and make sleep more comfortable for those who enjoy a cool bed.

Latex pads are growing in popularity and are naturally hypoallergenic. Typically more expensive than memory foam, latex is derived from trees and then processed. The material helps regulate body temperature at night and provides excellent support.

In addition to memory foam and latex options, ordinary or flex-foam mattress toppers that emulate the shape of egg crates are popular choices. They are typically less expensive, come in a variety of thicknesses, and help distribute body weight evenly during sleep.

Individual preferences and budget generally determine whether a memory foam, latex egg crate foam pad or hybrid is preferred. Yet, even a simple foam pad will provide comfort for a short time.

To learn about the different types of mattresses and determine which is right for you, click here: Mattress Reviews.