Mattress toppers can almost be described as mini-mattresses. These useful additions to your bed typically add about two to four inches of thick material, designed to subtly change the feel of your mattress, or simply add more comfort. In this guide, we look at hybrid and latex mattress toppers to see if either of these styles will meet your sleep needs.
A lot of the year best mattressesthat include top recommendations for all types of sleepers and budgets, are hybrid in their construction or contain latex in their layers. Sometimes both. So it makes perfect sense to translate these designs and materials into the best mattress toppers. Traditionally, most mattress toppers were simply made from solid foam or latex options. However, we are starting to see a growing market for hybrid mattress toppers, which are expected to become more popular in the future.
With the Labor Day Mattress Sales On the horizon, some brands are already offering significant discounts. So if you're in the market for a new mattress topper, now might be the perfect time to buy one. This hybrid mattress topper vs latex mattress topper comparison should help you figure out where to spend your money.
What is a hybrid mattress topper?
Hybrid mattress toppers are the newcomers to the market and are designed in the same way as the best hybrid mattressesThese mattress toppers combine foam and springs, providing both comfort and support to your bed. Unlike a hybrid mattress, which uses standard-sized springs, a hybrid mattress topper will typically use micro-springs, as these are designed to be smaller and more flexible than standard mattress springs).
What is a latex mattress topper?
Latex is a durable, non-toxic material that is often used in the best organic mattresses On the market. Remarkably durable, some latex mattress toppers will last you up to 15 years with proper care and attention. There are two types of latex used to make mattress toppers: Dunlop and Talalay. Dunlop latex tends to be firmer than Talalay, which has a softer, plusher feel. A latex mattress topper is also naturally hypoallergenic and resistant to common allergens like pollen, dander, dust mites, and mold.
Hybrid or latex mattress toppers: prices
Latex is a premium material, which means that latex mattress toppers won’t be a budget-friendly choice. But, similarly, the combination of foams and springs in a hybrid mattress topper also increases the price. So, these aren’t the mattress toppers to choose if you’re on a tight budget.
The more expensive materials also mean it's a good idea to wait for major sales to score a good deal. Hybrid and latex mattress toppers cost between $300 and $500, though we've seen some great deals where you can save more, especially on latex mattress toppers (since they've been around longer).
If you're on a tighter budget, you might consider one of the best memory foam mattress toppers on the contrary, they are considerably more affordable.
Hybrid or latex mattress toppers: design and materials
As you might expect, a hybrid mattress topper is a condensed version of a full hybrid mattress in terms of materials. The exact materials vary from brand to brand, but hybrid mattress toppers are typically thicker (around three to four inches) in order to accommodate both the foams and springs.
Typically, these mattress toppers are designed with one of two layers of comfort foam on top, followed by a layer of micro-coils for pressure relief. The bottom layer is usually made of high-density foam for support, with a breathable or cooling cover to finish off the topper. Expect a hybrid mattress topper to last about five years, as it is considerably thinner than a hybrid mattress. Hybrid mattress toppers also sometimes come in different firmness levels, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your sleeping style and body weight.
Latex mattress toppers are simpler in design, with one or two layers of latex encased in a breathable cover. Since natural latex is 100% organic, most of the other materials used will be as well, with brands often using organic cotton or wool in the cover. More expensive latex mattress toppers may also have an additional layer of organic wool as a natural flame retardant. You'll also find latex mattress toppers come in a variety of firmness options, but these mattress toppers will give you a much longer lifespan and could last up to 15 years.
Hybrid or latex mattress toppers: comfort and support
Hybrid and latex mattress toppers offer a more responsive feel than memory foam mattress toppers, and you should expect less sinkage from these types of mattress toppers. Hybrid mattress toppers are designed to replicate the bouncy, supportive feel of hybrid mattresses. While these toppers often come in different firmness ratings, even the softest hybrid mattress topper will still give you a boost from the coil layer to keep you from sinking too deeply into the topper.
Hybrid mattress toppers offer excellent pressure relief, with the springs helping to keep the spine aligned. The varying firmness levels mean most sleepers will be able to find a mattress topper to suit their sleeping style, although some lightweight side sleepers may find them a little too firm.
Latex mattress toppers also tend to have a bouncier, firmer, and more supportive feel. They’re a great choice for firming up a softer mattress, as the latex helps keep your hips supported and your spine aligned. Some latex mattress toppers have plush top layers to provide a little extra comfort, but in general, we recommend them most for back sleepers and combination sleepers.
Both types of mattress toppers can also be a good choice for people with back pain, with a combination of softer layers on top and firmer support underneath. However, these are just mattress toppers, so if you suffer from chronic back or joint pain, it would probably be better to invest in one of the two. best mattresses for back pain.
Hybrid vs. Latex Mattress Toppers: Temperature Regulation
Hybrid and latex mattress toppers are a good choice if you sleep hot. A hybrid mattress topper features microcoils, which promote airflow throughout the mattress and prevent heat from getting trapped. Additionally, these mattress toppers typically come with breathable cotton covers or specialized cooling covers to help keep sleepers cool and comfortable.
Latex is naturally breathable, with a porous surface that will help to stimulate circulation. You will sometimes even see brands cutting small holes into the latex to further improve airflow. Since latex is organic, the other materials used in mattress toppers will usually be organic as well, with organic cotton and organic wool also being extremely breathable and helping to wick away moisture.
Hybrid or latex mattress topper: which one to buy?
Buy a hybrid mattress topper if…
✅ You want a thicker mattress topper: Hybrid mattress toppers need to be thicker to accommodate the spring and foam layers, which means they will add a few inches to your existing mattress.
✅ You want the feel of a hybrid mattress: While they're obviously not true mattresses, a hybrid mattress topper will give you the feel of a hybrid mattress, with the support of the spring layer and the comfort of the foam layers on top.
✅ You want a mattress topper suitable for all sleeping positions: Since you can buy hybrid mattress toppers in different firmness levels, you should be able to find one that suits your sleeping style and body weight.
Buy a latex mattress topper if…
✅ You want an ecological option: Latex is organic, hypoallergenic, non-toxic, and antimicrobial. Plus, it’s sustainably produced. All of this makes it a great option for those looking for an eco-friendly mattress topper.
✅ You sleep on your back or are a combination sleeper: The bouncy feel of latex means it's easy to change positions throughout the night, and it provides ample support for spinal alignment when sleeping on your back.
✅ You sleep very warm: While hybrid and latex mattress toppers are a good option for hot sleepers, latex is naturally breathable and cooler due to its porous texture, and you'll get the added benefit of organic cotton or wool in the cover to add to the heat-wicking properties.