ThicknessThe thicker a mattress topper is, the more added cushion it will provide. Some thin options are 1 to 2 inches thick, and will do just fine if you simply want a little bit of added comfort on your bed. On the other hand, some mattress pads can be up to 6 inches thick — ideal if your bed is incredibly uncomfortable.
MaterialMattress toppers can be made with a variety of materials, including different types of foam, down feathers, and regular pillow material. There are pros and cons to the different options: For instance, memory foam often has an odor at first, while down toppers may lose feathers over time. Consider the positives and negatives of each material before making a decision.
Temperature regulationDo you tend to get hot at night? Certain mattress toppers regulate body heat better than others, so consider this while shopping. Specifically, memory foam is known to retain heat, which can cause you to get too warm during the night, while down feathers are significantly better at maintaining a normal temperature.