Should I Buy A Mattress Topper Or A New Mattress?

Should I Buy A Mattress Topper Or A New Mattress?

 Written By: Michal Szlas - Founder and CEO of Otty Sleep

Are you tossing and turning at night, wrestling with the decision of whether to invest in a mattress topper or a new mattress?

We'll look at when a good mattress topper might be the right choice, and when it's time to bid farewell to your old mattress and welcome a new one.

Should You Buy A Mattress Topper or A New Mattress?

This decision can be influenced by several factors, including your current mattress condition, your specific sleep issues, and your budget.

Here are the main points you should consider:

Your Current Mattress Condition

Just like an ageing car, mattresses can show signs of wear and tear, even if they outwardly appear fine. However, there are certain key factors that you need to look out for.

An uncomfortable mattress often showcases a marked weight distribution problem.

You might notice that some parts of your mattress might sink more than others. If this is the case, a mattress topper might not solve the issue. A brand new mattress could be the right choice in this scenario.

Your Sleep Issues

You might observe problems that are commonly solved with a different type of mattress, perhaps one that better regulates temperature. In these scenarios, buying a cool gel topper for you mattress can dramatically improve sleep quality.

If your mattress starts showing signs of wear, affecting your quality of sleep, a soft memory topper could be an immediate, cost-effective alternative to buying a new, budget mattress. A well-selected topper has the power to instantly transform an uncomfortable mattress.

Your Budget

When it comes to deciding between a mattress topper and a new mattress, your budget can be a key factor. Price points for these items vary significantly.

A mattress topper provides a handy and cost-effective solution, allowing you to enhance the comfort of your current mattress without having to invest in a brand-new one. Some even come with cool gel and soft memory features for those looking for temperature regulation.

However, if your mattress shows significant signs of wear or doesn't support your sleep issues, you might need to consider the initial higher investment of a new mattress.

Different mattress types cater to different needs, so investing in the right choice might prove cost-effective in the long run.

For more in-depth advice, check out our guide on how often you should change your mattress.

When a Mattress Topper May be the Right Choice

 Here's a few reasons why you might go with a mattress topper over a new mattress:


If Your Mattress is Slightly Too Firm

If you find your mattress a tad too firm, a mattress topper might be the solution. By adding a foam top to your sleeping surface, you can enjoy exceptional comfort without the need for a new mattress.

Mattress toppers aren't a permanent solution, but they can offer temporary relief and serve a purpose during the adjustment period. Test out with different types until you find the right mattress topper for your specific sleeping position.

To Improve the Feel of a Mattress Without Replacing It

If your mattress is generally supportive but lacks the right feel, a mattress topper may be your best option. It serves a purpose to transform a poorly adjusted bed into a cradle of comfort, thus easing back pain.

Mattress toppers often incorporate targeted materials like transition foam, which cater to your sleeping position and provide that essential extra pressure relief. Heat retention is also a concern that many sleepers voice, and thankfully, most toppers are designed with breathability in mind.

Even better, some toppers include additional materials infused into the memory foam, which add extra sleeping benefits to the layer of comfort - one example of that is the OTTY Bamboo & Charcoal infused memory foam topper.

When Budget Constraints Prevent Buying a New Mattress

Mattress toppers can be a cost-effective solution when budget is a big consideration.

However, it's crucial to remember that while mattress toppers serve a purpose, they cannot solve underlying issues with a worn-out mattress. 

When to Buy a New Mattress

A new mattress can be a significant investment, but it's often necessary for maintaining optimal comfort and support. It's not just about the age of your mattress, but also about the condition it's in and the level of comfort it provides. 

If Your Existing Mattress Sags or Has Impressions

If your existing mattress is showing signs of wear like sagging or impressions, it might be time to consider a new purchase. These issues can't be rectified by merely adding a topper. A sagging mattress indicates a loss of support, against which a mattress topper might only provide temporary relief but does not fix the root cause.

An investment in good sleep can be more beneficial in the long run than seeking temporary fixes. Such a sagging or impressed mattress could lead to sleep issues that no soft memory foam or extra pressure relief from a topper can aid.

Learn more about the difference between mattress sagging and body indentations.

When Your Mattress is Over 7-10 Years Old

Mattresses are notorious for losing their original shape and support over time. This gradual loss of support can often be traced back to poor sleep quality, which a soft memory foam topper alone may not alleviate.

While a new mattress may seem pricey as compared to a topper, it's essential to weigh the value it brings in providing the necessary support or temperature regulation over the long term. The differences - and prices - can be tremendous while deciding between a mattress topper and a new mattress.

If You Need Significant Improvements in Comfort or Support

A soft memory foam topper might provide temporary relief, but could also mask the loss of support in your old mattress.

Likewise, while a topper might assist with individual sleep issues such as support or temperature regulation, if you're contending with both, it might be less expensive - and more comfy in the long run - to invest in a new mattress entirely.

Making the decision between a topper and investing in your well sleep with a brand new mattress can often boil down to considering your budget. However, if the underlying issue is a loss of support or comfort that a plush topper can't revive, then a new mattress is the way to go.

Choosing Between a Mattress Topper and a New Mattress

The decision between a mattress topper and a new mattress hinges on your unique needs and circumstances.

If your current mattress shows signs of wear but still provides durable support, a good mattress topper could offer the extra pressure relief and comfort you need.

On the other hand, if your mattress is beyond its expected lifespan or fails to serve its purpose, investing in a new mattress is a wise choice.

 Our range of hybrid mattresses are a great choice if you're looking to invest in a comfortable and supportive mattress.

Back to blog