---
title: "Mattress Topper"
description: "What a mattress topper is, how thickness and foam density change the feel, and what a topper cannot fix."
url: "https://bedguide.co.uk/glossary/mattress-topper/"
category: "glossary"
primary_entity: "mattress topper"
date_published: 2026-10-21
date_modified: 2026-10-21
---

# Mattress Topper

> A mattress topper is a thick pad that sits on top of a mattress. It can make the sleep surface feel softer or firmer without replacing the mattress. Foam density and thickness set how long it lasts and how much you sink. A topper cannot fix broken springs or a squashed core.

**Definition.** A mattress topper is a thick pad placed on top of a mattress to make the surface feel softer or firmer.

Also called: topper, memory foam topper, mattress pad.

A deep topper adds height, so check your fitted sheet pocket depth.

Toppers and pads can fall under UK fire safety rules. Read the topper’s own
label.

Full guide: [mattress toppers: density, gel and
feel](/bedding/mattress-toppers). Also: [mattress protector vs
topper](/compare/mattress-protector-vs-topper).

---

Source: https://bedguide.co.uk/glossary/mattress-topper/ · BedGuide — independent UK bed guide; paid links are labelled (see /how-we-make-money/). Facts checked against official sources where possible; see https://bedguide.co.uk/editorial-policy. Report an error: https://bedguide.co.uk/corrections.