Best Thickness For Memory Foam Mattress Topper: 5 Top Picks Compared

Choosing the right thickness for a memory foam mattress topper can make a noticeable difference in how your bed feels, and it can also change how well your mattress supports your body. A thin topper of 2 inches may soften a firm mattress without changing its overall height. A thicker 4 or 5 inch topper adds a deeper layer of contouring and pressure relief, but it can also make the bed feel softer and raise your sleeping surface. This guide compares five popular options in different thicknesses, explains where each one fits best, and helps you decide which profile suits your mattress, sleep position, and comfort goals.

Quick Comparison Table

Our Picks: Best Thickness For Memory Foam Mattress Topper reviews

EGOHOME 3 Inch Queen Gel Memory Foam Topper for Pressure Relief

The EGOHOME topper is a gel-infused memory foam pad sold in a compressed box. Its appeal lies in its flexibility. The product is offered in three comfort profiles, 2 inch, 3 inch, and 4 inch, so you can match the thickness to your mattress rather than settling for one height. The 3 inch version is the middle option, and it strikes a practical balance. It adds enough foam to soften a firm surface and relieve pressure at the hips and shoulders, yet it does not raise the bed so high that getting in and out becomes awkward.

The gel infusion is designed to draw heat away from the body, which is useful if you tend to sleep warm. Gel-infused foam is not a cure for overheating, but it can help a topper feel less stuffy than plain memory foam in many rooms. The topper also carries CertiPUR-US certification and a 3-year limited warranty, which gives you a clear sense of the maker’s confidence in the product.

Setup requires patience. The topper needs 24 to 72 hours to fully expand, and it may give off a mild odor at first. Many owners find that unrolling it in a room with good airflow shortens the wait and reduces the smell. If you are in a hurry to use it, plan ahead so you are not testing it on the first night.

The EGOHOME is a strong choice if you want to refresh an older mattress and are not yet sure whether you need extra height. Buying the 3 inch version gives you a solid starting point, and it is especially sensible for side sleepers who want relief at the shoulders and hips without a dramatic change in feel. Compared with the thicker 5 inch options in this list, it is less of a commitment and easier to live with if your bed already sits high.

Pros:

• Available in 2, 3, and 4 inch profiles, which makes it easy to match the thickness to your needs
• Gel infusion helps the surface feel cooler than standard memory foam
• CertiPUR-US certified and backed by a 3-year limited warranty
• The 3 inch height adds pressure relief without making the bed hard to climb into

Cons:

• Requires a full 24 to 72 hours to expand, and a mild odor may be noticeable at first

Verdict: If you want a versatile, mid-height topper that softens a tired mattress and relieves pressure without adding too much bulk, the EGOHOME 3 inch Queen is a dependable choice. Pick the 3 inch version if your bed is firm and you want balanced support. Consider the 4 inch option if you sleep on your side and want more contouring.

WhatsBedding 5 Inch Queen Topper with Bamboo Viscose Top Layer

The WhatsBedding topper is a 5 inch model built from a blend of memory foam and shredded foam, with a top layer made of 40% bamboo fiber viscose and 60% polyester. That construction gives it a different character from the gel-infused toppers in this list. Instead of a dense, uniform foam slab, you get a layered, fluffier feel that aims to combine contouring with a softer surface. The 5 inch height is the thickest option here, so it makes the biggest change to how your bed feels.

The bamboo viscose layer is intended to add breathability, and the product uses a 3D design to support airflow. The deep elastic pocket is one of its most practical features. It is described as fitting mattresses from 8 to 21 inches, and the 360 degree wrap is meant to keep the topper from sliding when you move around at night. For people who dislike waking up to a shifted topper, this is a meaningful advantage.

Like other compressed toppers, it needs 24 to 48 hours after opening to reach full loft. Because it is thicker, you should check that your bed frame and bedding still fit comfortably before you commit. Some owners find that the fluffy surface needs a little time to settle, so judging it on the first night may not give you the full picture.

Compared with the SHOUREN 5 inch model, the WhatsBedding leans toward a softer, more cushioned feel. It may suit people who want a plush surface that still provides some support. Side sleepers and those with a firm mattress often appreciate the extra cushioning, while stomach sleepers who prefer a flatter surface may find it too soft.

Pros:

• The 5 inch height offers substantial cushioning for a noticeably softer sleep surface
• The deep elastic pocket fits a wide range of mattress heights and wraps around the mattress for a secure fit
• The bamboo viscose top layer and 3D design aim to improve airflow
• The shredded foam and memory foam combination provides a balance of softness and support

Cons:

• The thicker profile can be too soft for people who want a firmer, flatter surface, and it may raise the bed height noticeably

Verdict: The WhatsBedding 5 inch Queen is a good pick if you want a thick, plush topper with a secure fit and a softer feel. It suits side sleepers and anyone with a firm mattress who wants a noticeable change. If you prefer a firmer surface or a lower bed height, a 2 or 3 inch option will serve you better.

SHOUREN 5 Inch Gel Memory Foam Topper for Back Pain Support

The SHOUREN topper takes a thick, supportive approach. It uses a 5 inch profile that combines gel memory foam with shredded foam. The dual-layer structure is designed to spread pressure across the body while keeping the surface from feeling too sunken. For people dealing with lower back or shoulder discomfort, a thicker topper can make a real difference, because it adds a cushioned buffer between the body and a mattress that may have lost its comfort over time.

The four-corner elastic straps are a practical feature. Many toppers slide during the night, especially on mattresses with smooth covers, and anchoring is one of the most common frustrations with this type of product. The straps are meant to keep the topper in place through frequent movement. They are simple to use and add peace of mind, particularly for restless sleepers.

As with other compressed toppers, the SHOUREN needs 24 to 48 hours to fully expand. Plan for that waiting period before you judge the feel. Because the topper is 5 inches thick, measure the height of your bed and make sure you are comfortable with the extra clearance before ordering.

The main difference between this model and the WhatsBedding is the feel. The SHOUREN is positioned as a supportive, body-contouring option, while the WhatsBedding leans toward a plush, fluffy surface. If you want firm-leaning support and targeted pressure relief for the back, the SHOUREN is the more logical choice. If you want a cloud-like surface, the WhatsBedding may appeal more.

Pros:

• The 5 inch gel memory foam and shredded foam combination offers substantial pressure relief
• Four-corner elastic straps help keep the topper from shifting during sleep
• Dot-quilting is designed to keep the filling evenly distributed over time
• Its thickness suits people looking for more cushioning across the back and shoulders

Cons:

• The added height may be more than some beds can comfortably accommodate, and a 24 to 48 hour expansion period is required before use

Verdict: The SHOUREN 5 inch Queen is a strong option for people who want thick, supportive cushioning and a secure fit. It is well suited to back and shoulder comfort goals. Choose it if you want a dependable contouring layer and do not mind the extra height. If your bed is already high, a 3 inch topper may be a better fit.

EGO 2 Inch Gel Memory Foam Twin Topper for Light Pressure Relief

This 2 inch twin topper is the thinnest option in the lineup, and that is its main selling point. A 2 inch layer is enough to soften a firm mattress, add a little contouring at the hips and shoulders, and extend the feel of a bed without making a dramatic change to its height. It is also easier to store, transport, and move than a thicker topper, which makes it a sensible choice for a dorm room, a guest bed, or a child’s bedroom.

The product uses AeroFusion memory foam with gel, and the ventilated holes are intended to let heat and humidity move out of the topper. For a thin layer, that airflow can matter, since a thicker topper traps more heat. The CertiPUR-US certification adds reassurance about the materials and emissions, which many shoppers look for in foam products.

Its limitation is clear. A 2 inch topper will not provide the deep contouring or heavy pressure relief that a 4 or 5 inch model can offer. If your main goal is to address significant discomfort or a badly sagging mattress, this height may not be enough. It is best viewed as a light refresh rather than a major correction.

Setup follows the same pattern as other compressed toppers, with a 24 to 72 hour expansion period and a mild, temporary odor that airing the room can reduce. Because this is a twin size, make sure it matches your bed before buying. Buyers who need a queen or larger will need to look elsewhere in this list.

Pros:

• The 2 inch profile adds softness without raising the bed height significantly
• Ventilated holes and gel-infused foam support airflow and temperature control
• CertiPUR-US certification provides added confidence in the materials
• Easy to store and move, which suits dorm rooms and guest beds

Cons:

• The thin profile offers limited contouring and may not provide enough relief for significant pressure or back pain

Verdict: The EGO 2 inch Twin is the right choice if you want a light, low-profile topper for a twin bed. It works best for dorm rooms, guest beds, or mattresses that need a small amount of softening. If you need meaningful pressure relief, choose a 3 inch or thicker option instead.

Milcabe 3 Inch Ultra-Fluffy Queen Topper with Deep Pockets

The Milcabe topper is a 3 inch model that blends memory foam with fiber, with the maker describing a mix of 40% memory foam and 60% fiber. That blend positions it between a dense foam topper and a fully fluffy pillow-top style. The result is a softer, more cushioned feel than a solid memory foam layer of the same thickness, which may appeal to people who find traditional foam too firm or too hot.

The 3D air mesh design is meant to improve airflow from multiple directions, and the Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certification speaks to chemical safety. The fitted, deep-pocket design is a standout feature. It is listed for mattresses from 6 to 21 inches in height, and the elastic pocket is intended to hold the topper in place as you change positions during the night.

The product comes in several sizes, so it can fit a range of beds, from twin to California king. The maker also lists a 10-year after-sales guarantee, which is a longer coverage period than many toppers in this category offer. As always, read the product details carefully and confirm the warranty terms before purchasing.

Because the topper is softer and fluffier than a dense foam layer, its support is more of a cushioned, balanced feel. If you need firm, targeted contouring for significant back pain, a denser gel memory foam topper may be a better match. This model suits people who want softness, a secure fit, and an easy-care surface.

Pros:

• The blend of memory foam and fiber creates a soft, fluffy surface that suits those who find solid foam too firm
• The deep elastic pocket accommodates a wide range of mattress heights and is designed to resist shifting
• The 3D air mesh design and breathable fabric are intended to help regulate temperature
• Available in multiple sizes, with a 10-year after-sales guarantee listed

Cons:

• The fiber blend may feel less supportive than a denser memory foam topper for people who need firm contouring

Verdict: The Milcabe 3 inch topper is a strong option for anyone who wants a soft, cushioned surface with a secure fit and a range of size choices. It works well for people who find traditional memory foam too firm. If you need more pronounced support for back pain, compare it with a denser gel foam option before buying.

How to Choose the Right Thickness for a Memory Foam Mattress Topper

Start With Your Mattress and Its Current Condition

The best thickness begins with the mattress underneath. A firm mattress that feels too hard is often a good candidate for a thin topper, since even 2 or 3 inches of foam can soften the surface. A mattress that has developed dips or sagging over time usually needs more cushioning to fill those gaps, which points toward a 3 to 4 inch topper. A thicker topper is not always better, though. If your mattress is already soft and sinks deeply, adding 5 inches of foam can make the bed feel unstable and hard to get out of.

Match the Thickness to Your Sleep Position

Your sleep position influences how much cushioning you need. Side sleepers usually need more give at the shoulders and hips, so a 3 to 4 inch topper often works well. Back sleepers may find a 2 or 3 inch layer sufficient, since they need enough softening to support the lower back without sinking too far. Stomach sleepers generally benefit from thinner toppers that keep the body from sinking too deeply, because deep sinking can strain the lower back and neck. If you change positions frequently, a medium thickness offers a good compromise.

Consider Support Versus Softness

Thickness and firmness are related but not identical. A thick topper made from soft, fluffy fill can feel plush but offer limited support. A thinner gel memory foam layer may feel more supportive even though it adds less height. When comparing options, look past the number on the label and think about the surface feel you want. Products that mix memory foam with shredded foam or fiber, like several models in this guide, tend to feel softer and more cushioned than a dense, solid foam slab of the same height.

Think About Bed Height and Daily Use

Every additional inch of topper raises the sleeping surface. That matters for people who have mobility concerns, who use a bed frame with a low clearance, or who share a bed with a pet or child who needs to climb up. A 5 inch topper can make the bed noticeably taller, while a 2 or 3 inch model adds comfort with less change in height. Measure your current bed height before you buy, and remember to account for fitted sheets, which may need to be sized differently.

Check Fit and Anchoring

A topper that slides around can ruin a good night’s sleep, so pay attention to the fitting system. Deep elastic pockets are common on fitted toppers and are useful when the topper needs to stay in place without straps. Four-corner elastic straps can work well on mattresses with a flat surface. Confirm the listed mattress height range before buying, since a pocket that is too shallow may not fit a thick mattress, and one that is too deep may bunch and wrinkle.

Plan for Expansion, Odor, and Break-In Time

Most toppers in this list arrive vacuum-compressed or rolled in a box, and they need time to expand. The listed windows range from 24 to 72 hours, depending on the model and room temperature. Plan to unbox the topper early so you are not testing it on the first night. A mild odor is common with new foam, and airing out the room helps it fade. Keep the topper flat during expansion, and avoid stacking heavy items on it until it has fully opened.

Weigh Cooling and Breathability Features

Memory foam has a reputation for trapping heat, so cooling features can matter a great deal. Gel-infused foam, ventilated holes, and breathable top fabrics are common strategies. None of these features eliminate heat entirely, but they can make a meaningful difference for warm sleepers. If you tend to overheat, a thinner gel-infused topper may feel cooler than a thick, dense foam layer, since there is less insulating material between you and your mattress.

Balance Your Budget Against Expected Lifespan

Thicker toppers generally use more material, so they often cost more to produce, but a higher price does not guarantee better comfort. Think about how long you want the topper to last and what warranty or guarantee comes with it. The EGOHOME lists a 3-year limited warranty, and the Milcabe lists a 10-year after-sales guarantee. Read the terms carefully, since coverage details vary by brand and may include conditions you should understand before buying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a 3 inch memory foam topper thick enough to make a difference?

For many people, yes. A 3 inch topper can soften a firm mattress and relieve pressure at the hips and shoulders without changing the bed height too much. It is most effective when your mattress is firm or only mildly worn. If your mattress has deep sagging, a thicker topper may be needed to fill the gaps.

Which topper thickness is best for back pain?

A 3 to 4 inch topper is often a good starting point for back discomfort, since it provides enough cushioning to ease pressure without causing you to sink too far. Thicker toppers, such as the 5 inch options in this guide, may suit people who want more contouring. Because back pain has many causes, it is wise to talk with a healthcare professional if your discomfort persists.

Can a thin 2 inch topper actually help?

It can, especially on a firm mattress that feels too hard. A 2 inch layer adds a light cushion and can make the surface feel more comfortable. However, it will not provide the deep contouring or pressure relief of a thicker topper. Think of it as a light refresh rather than a major fix.

Will a thick topper make my bed too high?

It can. A 5 inch topper adds noticeably more height than a 2 or 3 inch model, which may matter if you use a low bed frame or need easy access to the mattress. Measure your current bed height and consider the extra clearance before purchasing.

How long does a memory foam topper take to expand?

Most compressed toppers in this guide need between 24 and 72 hours to fully expand, depending on the model and the room temperature. The exact time is listed in each product’s details. Plan ahead so you are not waiting to use the topper on the night you need it.

Do I need a deep pocket topper, or will straps work?

Either can work, depending on your mattress. Deep pockets wrap around the mattress and are useful for mattresses within the listed height range. Four-corner straps can suit flatter mattresses. If you move around a lot at night, a secure fitting system is especially helpful, since a shifting topper can bunch up and disrupt sleep.

Final Recommendation

For most people looking for the best thickness for a memory foam mattress topper, a 3 inch profile is the most versatile starting point. It softens a firm mattress, adds pressure relief at the shoulders and hips, and keeps the bed at a comfortable height. The EGOHOME 3 inch Queen is a practical option if you want the flexibility of multiple thicknesses and a gel-infused surface. If you want a thicker, plush feel with a secure fit, the WhatsBedding and SHOUREN 5 inch models are better suited, with the SHOUREN leaning toward firmer support and the WhatsBedding toward a softer surface. The EGO 2 inch Twin is the right fit for light softening or a smaller bed, and the Milcabe 3 inch topper is a good choice if you want a fluffy, cushioned surface with a deep-pocket fit. Start with your mattress condition, your sleep position, and your bed height, and choose the thickness that solves your specific comfort problem.