by Regarding mattress topper thickness, 2-inch and 3-inch are most commonly available on the market. These two thicknesses are ideal for most sizes of mattresses (check the top rated mattresses) and go well with sleep positions and body types.
But which one of these two should you consider for your bed? In this article, we will compare them both in detail and see which one is suitable for whom.
So, without any further ado, let’s dig right in, shall we?
Which One is Better: A 2 Inch or a 3 Inch Mattress Topper? (Lift by Amerisleep is our favorite 3″)
The GhostBed mattress topper feels cool and contours nicely to guarantee a pleasant and relaxing sleep.
The mattress topper features memory foam to ensure it provides you with that enveloping feel to your body as soon as you lie on it. And keeps your mattress safe from any spills or stains.
The thickness of this mattress topper is 3 inches, and it is made of gel memory foam. It means it contours well according to your body shape and ensures your sleep surface remains subtle and pressure relieving.
It has an ergonomic multi-zoned construction to ensure adequate comfort from top to bottom. The memory foam layer is covered in a deep-pocketed cotton cover that works as a waterproof layer (also check the top rated waterproof mattress protectors).
And of course, as the cover features cotton, it is highly breathable as well. It also comes with the GhostGrip elastic. The purpose of this band is to keep the topper securely on top of your mattress.
It is available in different sizes ranging from Twin to Split King. Moreover, the top is covered under a 5-year warranty to provide you with peace of mind.
This mattress topper comes with zoned construction, and you will get better airflow throughout the sleep surface and pressure relief. The topper is CertiPUR-US certified and will extend the overall durability of your mattress trifold.
There is a machine washable removable cover on this topper, and it’s made of antimicrobial, hypoallergenic (check 8 great mattresses for someone with allergies), and antibacterial materials. It is best to wash this cover using a gentle cycle, either with warm or cool water. After that, you can use a low-tumble or low-heat drying cycle.
Apart from the mattress topper, you can buy a range of different bedding accessories for your mattress from GhostBed. You can purchase different pillowcases, bed sheets, mattress protectors, and various pillows made of other materials.
How Many Inches of a Mattress Topper is Best?
A two-inch mattress topper is the thinnest option available. But it is better if you have to deal with hip pain. With a thicker mattress, your hips will sink into the sleep surface, and your back will go out of alignment.
These two-inch mattress toppers are great if you have a high mattress. Being thin, the topper won’t make the bed too bulky for you. This mattress topper is a top for people under 200 lbs because you will still get decent comfort and support from it (also check the most comfortable mattress toppers).
A 3-inch topper is about 50 percent higher than its 2-inch counterpart. Suppose you have to deal with lower back pain. In that case, this is a good mattress topper, particularly if it comes with a medium-firm configuration.
If a 3-inch topper is medium soft or soft, it works well for those who prefer to sleep on their sides (also check the top rated mattresses for side sleeper). Side sleepers require more pressure relieving on their shoulders, hips, and knees. And with more thickness, they will get more cushioning.
These toppers are great for people who weigh between 165 and 250 lbs. With a softer topper, you can go for more cushioning, but if you are looking for more support, you can go for a firmer topper.
With a thicker or firmer mattress topper, you will get more support. But if you have hip or lower back pain, you should consider going for a 2-inch mattress topper (also check 10 amazing mattresses for back pain). You must ensure your pressure points do not overly sink into your bed, or your spine will go out of alignment.
Are 2 Inches of Memory Foam Enough?
If you are restless at night, you should better go for a denser foam. And to make a noticeable difference with that, you should consider going for a mattress topper 2 inches thick. You can sleep comfortably and cool in your memory foam mattress topper with a lower density.
Of course, if you want more softness, you must go for a 3-inch mattress. The overall firmness of your mattress underneath counts a lot in this regard. But if you have a newer mattress, a 2-inch mattress topper will work just fine for you. With an older mattress, consider going for a thicker mattress topper.
What Thickness of Mattress Topper is Best for Back Pain?
You should consider going for a firmer and thicker mattress topper for your additional support. It’s because such a mattress topper will provide you with plenty of support. With more support, your spine will stay properly aligned and in an optimal position (also check the best selling mattress toppers for sciatica).
But if you are dealing with hip or back pain, consider going for a 2-inch mattress topper. However, the best practice is that if you have a new mattress underneath, you should consider going for a 2-inch mattress topper. And if your topper is old, consider going for a 3-inch mattress for best results.
Is a 2 Inch or 3 Inch Mattress Topper Better?
They both have their pros and cons. A 2-inch mattress topper is thinner, so it will provide you with more support than comfort. On the other hand, a 3-inch mattress topper is thicker, so it will give you more cushioning than support.
But 3-inch mattress toppers are available in different options regarding firmness. A soft or a firm 3-inch mattress topper will be much more noticeable than a 2-inch mattress topper.
It’s all about your sleep requirements and preferences. A 2-inch mattress topper is suitable for lightweight sleepers (check 10 great mattresses for lightweight person) and those who prefer to sleep on their back or stomach. But a 3-inch mattress topper is better for more cushioning and if you are bulkier.
Can a Too Soft Mattress Cause Back Pain?
Yes, if mattresses feel too soft, and you weigh around 130 lbs to 230 lbs, you will sink into the mattress, and your spine will misalign. It results in lower back pain that can get worse every night.
If you are dealing with back pain, you should consider going for a more supportive sleep surface that is slightly firmer, and it will provide you with adequate support and keep your spine in an optimal position (check the top-quality mattress toppers for back pain).
Is a 2 Inch Mattress Topper Too Thin?
It will only be too thin if you are a bulky individual and if you prefer to sleep on your side most of the time. If you are a combination sleeper and weigh between 130 to 230 lbs, a 2-inch mattress topper will be pretty good as it will support you.
Moreover, being thinner will prevent sinkage and be more breathable than its 3-inch counterpart. But you are pretty much limited with your firmness options when going for a 2-inch mattress topper.
Factors to Consider Before Buying a Mattress Topper
There are some critical positions that you need to keep in mind before you buy a mattress topper, and we have listed them as follows:
Material
Consider the materials of a mattress topper from which it is made. There are memory foam mattress toppers; you can consider going for the Talalay latex mattress topper.
Memory foam toppers are a better choice if you prefer that enveloping feel, and latex toppers would be a better choice if you tend to sleep hot (also check 10 best cooling mattress toppers for hot sleepers). A latex topper is better when it comes to getting support while a thick memory foam topper adds additional cushioning to an existing mattress.
Thickness
Of course, mattress toppers are available in 2 and 3-inch thicknesses (also check 8 amazing thick mattress toppers). But you can find 4-inch thick mattress toppers that are much softer than the other two. Density directly affects the overall thickness of the mattress topper and how hot it contours a sleeper’s body.
A thicker topper will be firmer and provide more support to keep your spine properly aligned. With lower density, you will have a softer topper that will be more cushioning.
Body weight
When choosing a mattress topper, you should consider your body weight and sleep position. For instance, if you are petite, you can consider going for a softer mattress, and obese people can go for a firmer mattress (also check 10 top rated mattresses for overweight people).
Similarly, if you prefer to sleep on your side, you should consider a softer mattress, but a thinner and firmer mattress will work for you if you prefer to sleep on your stomach or back (also check 10 great mattresses for stomach sleepers).
Key Takeaways: Navigating the Choice Between 2-Inch and 3-Inch Mattress Toppers
Key Differences in Thickness
The thickness of a mattress topper significantly influences the level of comfort and support it provides. A 2-inch mattress topper, being thinner, tends to offer more firmness and support which is beneficial for back or stomach sleepers, and those under 200 lbs. On the flip side, a 3-inch mattress topper, being thicker, provides more cushioning which is often favored by side sleepers or individuals weighing between 165 and 250 lbs. This added cushioning helps in alleviating pressure on the shoulders, hips, and knees.
Alignment and Pain Relief
For individuals dealing with back or hip pain, the choice of mattress topper thickness can be pivotal. A 2-inch topper can prevent excessive sinking which helps in maintaining spinal alignment, whereas a 3-inch topper with medium firmness can cater to lower back pain relief. The selection largely depends on the individual’s body weight, sleep position, and the condition of the underlying mattress.
Compatibility with Existing Mattress
The state of your current mattress also plays a role in deciding the topper thickness. For newer mattresses, a 2-inch topper might suffice to provide the desired comfort or firmness adjustment. However, an older mattress might benefit more from a 3-inch topper that compensates for the sagging or indentations.
Material Considerations
Mattress toppers come in various materials like memory foam, latex, among others. Memory foam toppers are known for their contouring and pressure-relief qualities, while latex toppers offer a more supportive and cooler sleep surface. The choice of material, coupled with the right thickness, can significantly upgrade your sleep experience.
Personal Preferences and Sleep Styles
The preference between a 2-inch and a 3-inch mattress topper boils down to personal sleep needs and comfort preferences. Lightweight sleepers or those who prefer a firmer sleep surface might lean towards a 2-inch topper. Conversely, those seeking plush comfort or having a larger body type might find solace in a 3-inch topper.
Our Top Pick: GhostBed Mattress Topper
The GhostBed 3-inch mattress topper stands out with its zoned construction, gel memory foam material, and ease of maintenance. It caters to a wide range of sleepers, particularly those weighing between 130 to 230 lbs, providing a balance of warmth, cushioning, and pressure relief. The added bonus of waterproofing and a washable cover makes it a worthy consideration for a comforting sleep upgrade.
Our Recommendation
The GhostBed Mattress Topper is a good option if you are looking for a topper that is 3-inch thick and is made of gel memory foam. It will enable you to sleep comfortably as it provides warmth and cushioning (also check the most comfortable mattresses).
It is a good option for people who weigh around 130 lbs to 230 lbs and works well for side and back sleepers (also check the best selling pillows for back sleepers). But if you are a stomach sleeper and weigh above 230 lbs, it is better to go for a firmer mattress topper and consider a 2-inch mattress topper.
2 inch vs 3 inch mattress topper FAQs
Do you need bigger sheets with a mattress topper?
Yes, you might need a bigger sheet for your bed with a mattress topper, but that isn’t always the case. If you place a fitted sheet on your topper, it won’t clump easily. Moreover, the materials of the sheet will be much more comfortable than that of a mattress topper.
Are mattress toppers supposed to be smaller?
You have to know the overall depth of your bed as it will allow you to determine the pocket size of the topper you need. The best practice is to go for a pocket size of 1-inch minimum with respect to your mattress.
Can you sleep on just a mattress topper?
Yes, you can use your mattress topper as your mattress. But you have to make sure that it's just a temporary replacement. If you plan to sleep on a topper every night, it might cause a few issues.