A topper or thin mattress provides a comfortable and healthy sleep on a pull-out sofa or an old, uncomfortable mattress. As a rule, these are products of small thickness (2-10 cm), designed for comfortable rest on modular or folding upholstered furniture.
Previously, mattress toppers with a thick layer of filling were called toppers, but today this name has passed to mattresses with specific features - springless, removable, mobile and with reliable fixation in the form of wide elastic bands at the corners.
Today, manufacturers offer a lot of thin mattresses of various types. So which topper to choose and how to do it right? Read about this in our article.
What is a topper for?
Before choosing a topper, it is worth learning more about the functionality of this model.
- Leveling the surface of the sofa. If the bed initially assumes a flat plane, then modular or folding furniture often turns out to be less comfortable due to differences in the height of parts and uneven joints. The topper covers all the unevenness, forming a full-fledged sleeping place without protrusions and dips.
- Providing the necessary comfort. Another answer to the question of why a topper is needed is to create the required level of support for the spine. By choosing a firm or soft thin mattress depending on your needs, you create conditions for healthy sleep.
- Extending the service life of furniture. Regular sleeping on the base sleeping area of the sofa often leads to a deterioration in its appearance - the material wears or tears, and the upholstery can be damaged. A thin mattress reliably covers the base of the sofa and protects the sleeping area and mechanism from unnecessary impacts.
In some cases, a thin mattress can be used as a play mat for a child or as a mat for home fitness.
Shapes and sizes
Let's look at the main sizes and shapes of toppers.
Rectangular
This topper is considered classic, suitable for most beds and is in high demand due to its wide size range.
Round
Round sleeping places are now actively conquering the market, and topper manufacturers are not lagging behind. In addition to organizing a sleeping place, the round product can also be used independently.
Main Dimensions
- standard width of a single model is 90 cm, length 190;
- for one-and-a-half-sleeping sofas, toppers with a width of 120, 140 cm and a length of 190 cm are suitable;
- double models have dimensions of 160 by 200 cm;
- there are options whose size is 180 by 200 cm;
- They also produce toppers in European sizes - 90 by 190, 200 cm and 160,180 by 200 cm;
- for round sofas, products with a diameter of 200, 220 and 230 cm are produced;
- the most popular children's models have dimensions of 60 by 120 cm, 60 by 140 cm and 70 by 140 cm.
Topper height
The height of the product can vary from 2 to 10 cm and is directly related to its rigidity.
Benefits of thin mattresses
Buyers are also attracted by other advantages of toppers:
- Ease. Even a double thin mattress can be easily placed or removed from the sofa - even a teenager can cope with this task if necessary.
- Mobility and compactness. Thanks to the absence of springs and a small layer of filler, the topper can be rolled up and stored in a pantry or dressing room, where it will take up minimal space.
- Easy to care for bed. Removing and tidying up a thin mattress is much easier than keeping the sofa itself clean, so with proper care, the sleeping surface always looks neat.
How is it different from a regular mattress?
The main difference is the thickness. Toppers are not made thicker than 5-6 centimeters. A full-fledged mattress has a thickness of 15 cm, since it bears the main load. The “filling” of the topper is also simpler. It consists of a homogeneous material, while the structure of the mattress involves multi-layering.
Expensive models may use 2 or 3 fillers, but what you will never see in a topper is a spring block. Manufacturers always provide the product with elastic bands so that it can be securely fixed to the sleeping place. The mattress does not have such fastenings, since this is not necessary.
Types of thin mattresses
Russian and foreign brands produce various types of toppers for folding and modular sofas. You have the opportunity to choose the most suitable one from the following options:
- Foldable. Flexible and plastic thin mattresses are easy and convenient to store by rolling them up or stacking them with a sofa.
- Orthopedic. New generation toppers with natural or artificial filling provide anatomically correct body position and are almost as effective as conventional mattresses.
- Double. Thin mattresses for two beds ensure even distribution of the load. Various fillers can be used here, including in combination with each other.
How to choose a mattress topper for a bed and sofa
When choosing a product, you should consider several nuances. For example, if you are purchasing toppers for a bed mattress, then you need to choose models that have rubber loops to secure them. The height of the loops does not play a special role.
Things are completely different with the sofa. In the case when the topper will be used only for nighttime sleep, you will have to remove it and roll it up. In this case, it will not work with coconut filling, since it needs to be stored only unwrapped. A latex mattress, the thickness of which does not exceed 3 cm, can be stored for some time in a cover in a loose roll. Products made from polyurethane foam and fiber are less capricious, since they can be stored in any condition.
Fillers for thin mattresses
The inner part of the topper provides a supportive effect and is responsible for creating a comfortable sleeping place. Today, manufacturers use both artificial and natural fillers.
- Coconut coir. Natural compressed coconut fiber is most often used in hard mattresses. The topper filler can be made of latex or pressed material - the former is more elastic.
- Latex. Another natural material is foamed rubber extracted from tree sap. It has sufficient softness, elasticity and resistance to stress.
- Artificial latex. Similar in properties to natural, but a little tougher. If the question of how to choose a thin mattress comes down to financial capabilities, you should choose a synthetic analogue - it is cheaper.
- Polyurethane foam (PPU). Artificial foam filler, soft, hypoallergenic and inexpensive.
- Memory foam (memorifoam). Viscoelastic material with a memory effect, which has a pronounced orthopedic effect. Suitable for everyone – and especially for people who require a more comfortable sleeping place.
Also today, combined fillers are increasingly used - such as ergolatex and struttofiber. The combination of artificial and plant fibers in them allows you to reduce the price of the topper, but without losing quality.
It’s a great success if once you choose a mattress, you remain satisfied with it for many years. But what to do when the sleeping place causes inconvenience. When your mattress is too hard or, conversely, too soft. A topper can save you.
What is a topper
According to statistics, more than 75% of respondents have never used it, and many do not even know what a topper is. A topper is a thin mattress that is an additional accessory to the main mattress, softening or, conversely, giving it rigidity, as well as smoothing out unevenness. The main difference between a topper and a mattress is the absence of springs and its small thickness - no more than 10 cm. Another convenient property is its mobility - some types of toppers can be rolled up and taken with you on a trip, for example, to the country.
Who invented the topper
It is believed that the topper originated from the Japanese futon - a thin mattress made from natural materials. The cost of these products was very high; only wealthy Japanese could afford a futon. In Europe, futons became famous at a time when a healthy lifestyle became popular, and everyone turned their attention to Japan, whose inhabitants are famous for their longevity.
The Japanese futon was laid directly on the floor, and after use it was put away in the closet. This mattress, despite its thickness of 3–4 cm, was very comfortable for sleeping - it was made of several layers of filler. Previously, it was stuffed with wool and cotton. And today, artificial or natural latex, coconut coir and other modern materials are used in production.
The topper is very similar in characteristics to a futon, but still has some differences. Initially, it was perceived only as an addition to a regular mattress; it was not used as an independent sleeping place. Now toppers regulate the softness of the mattress and are used for sofas to make the sleeping area more comfortable. It helps out at the dacha, or when you need to organize an extra bed.
In Russia, a huge number of people sleep on folding sofas. If you hold a “sofa or bed” competition, comparing queries in a search engine, then “sofa” will outstrip its counterpart in the number of clicks by half a million! And often this is a forced choice. A person would be happy to sleep on a full-fledged bed, but circumstances... And in such a situation, a sofa topper can be a real salvation. Its multi-layer nature helps to level the surface of the sleeping area and relieve the load from the back.
How to choose a topper
When choosing a model, pay attention to the following characteristics:
1. Type of filler
Materials for filling the topper can be divided into natural and synthetic.
Coconut coir is made from specially processed coconut fibers. It is impregnated with a mixture based on natural latex, which gives the fibers elasticity. This natural material is hypoallergenic, holds its shape perfectly and is used to stiffen the mattress.
Natural latex is an environmentally friendly, hypoallergenic material made from the sap of the Brazilian Hevea rubber tree. Natural latex is very elastic, wear-resistant and retains its shape perfectly.
Polyurethane foam - artificial latex or foam rubber. The properties are identical to natural, but much cheaper than natural.
Holofiber is a synthetic filler, an innovative high-quality non-woven material. Holds heat perfectly, is hypoallergenic and practically does not deform. It is very soft to sleep on.
Struttofiber is an inexpensive artificial filler, sometimes with the addition of natural materials. It is characterized by medium hardness and hypoallergenicity.
Memory Foam is polyurethane foamed using a special technology with a memory effect. Quite expensive material. Adapts to a person's body shape and weight, and then restores its original shape. Sleeping on a topper filled with memory foam is a great pleasure.
2. Topper hardness level
There are three types of hardness:
A soft topper on the mattress eliminates excessive hardness and smoothes out unevenness. Fillers: holofiber, natural latex, polyurethane foam, memory forms.
Hard ones are used when you need to add firmness to a too soft main mattress. Fillers: coconut coir, holofiber.
Medium-hard models can be used alone. Great for organizing an extra bed, a children's play area on the floor or for playing sports. Fillers: polyurethane foam, struttofiber, natural or artificial latex.
For people who do not have orthopedic problems, hard toppers are suitable. For people with a dense build – elastic, well-kept shape. For allergy sufferers – hypoallergenic models with good ventilation. If there are problems with the musculoskeletal system, you should carefully select the rigidity - in such cases you need to choose models with orthopedic properties. Consultation with an orthopedic surgeon is advisable. Children should choose firm and resilient mattresses.
3. Size and thickness
When purchasing, be guided by the size of your sleeping place - it is important to accurately measure its parameters. If the topper is smaller, it will not cover the entire surface of the bed: sleeping this way is not very comfortable. And if there are more, instead of smoothing out the unevenness, it will add additional bumps. The thicker the product, the smoother the surface will be. The height ranges from 3 to 10 cm and is directly related to the firmness of the topper mattress.
4. Case and fastenings
There is an opinion that you should choose a topper with a removable cover. However, if you are going to use the mattress regularly, it is better to purchase a mattress pad separately. Your own cover may become deformed and “shrink” when washed.
Pay attention to toppers with elastic fastenings at the corners. Most models are presented in exactly this solution, which is very convenient: with the help of wide elastic bands, the topper is easily and securely fixed to the sofa or mattress.
5. Manufacturer and price
There are currently a great variety of topper manufacturers, and the price range is quite wide: from approximately two to fifteen thousand rubles. In the case of a topper, you can safely choose a model from the middle price segment. With proper care it will last quite a long time.
Toppers are designed to protect the mattress from wear and tear. A properly selected mattress topper can greatly improve your sleep and maintain physical and mental health.
Tips for choosing
When thinking about how to choose a topper, you should consider several criteria at once. And first of all this:
- Size. Nowadays it is easy to find a thin mattress in a wide range of sizes - single, double or semi-size. It is extremely important that the topper exactly matches the size of the bed - too large will hang down and become deformed, and too small will not be able to be securely fixed.
- Rigidity. If you prefer hard sleeping surfaces, take a look at models with coir or artificial latex fillings. For those who like to sleep on soft things, it is better to choose products with memory foam or natural latex. For connoisseurs of the golden mean, manufacturers offer toppers with struttofiber.
- Price. It is worth considering that very cheap models will not provide adequate convenience and will last a maximum of a year or two. We recommend taking a look at the promotions section of online stores, where you can often find a branded model with high-quality filling at a big discount.
A thorough and thoughtful selection of a thin mattress will allow you to find a sleeping accessory that will completely suit both you and your guests.
SON.ru will help you with your choice
Our specialists are the best experts in matters of comfortable sleep and are always ready to help you. We are in touch and will answer all questions. The consultation is absolutely free.
Manufacturers, prices
Today you can find a wide variety of toppers on sale. The choice of manufacturers and prices is quite wide.
Askona
The cost of toppers from this manufacturer varies from 3,700 to 5,400 rubles, depending on the model.
Dormeo (Dormeo)
The average cost of small chair toppers from Dormeo is 1300 – 1700 rubles.
The price of large-sized products ranges from 4,300 to 11,000 rubles, depending on the filling and orthopedic characteristics.
Ikea
Ikea presents both budget options for 1600–2300 rubles, and products whose price is 5000–9500 rubles.
Ormatek (Ormatek)
The wide range of this manufacturer allows you to purchase a topper in the price range from 4,500 to 12,000 rubles.
Lonax
The brand is represented by toppers with affordable prices ranging from 3,600 to 8,000 rubles.
Hoff
Hoff will definitely help you buy a topper and save money. The cost of the presented products varies between 1700 – 4600 rubles.
What is the difference between a topper and a mattress pad?
Everything is very simple here - the mattress cover performs a purely decorative function, unlike the topper. A topper is bought to smooth out the unevenness of a sleeping area, soften it or make it harder. But a mattress cover protects your favorite bed from dirt. In addition, the mattress pad looks more like a quilt, but the topper is still a mattress.
Unlike a mattress pad, a topper most often cannot be washed; it simply will not fit in a traditional washing machine. And if you still want to squeeze it inside the drum, it will completely lose its properties. After all, most fillers are not washable.
Pricing
How much does a topper cost? Nowadays there are various models of such bedding available. The price of mattress toppers depends on the following features:
- manufacturer;
- used filler and upholstery;
- product sizes.
Attention! It is not recommended to buy toppers from unverified manufacturers. Too low a price should also alert a person. This indicates that low-quality materials were used to create the product, as a result of which it will not last long and will not perform all the necessary functions.
Rules of care
Proper use of any product is the key to its durability. In order for use to bring the expected effect, you must remember the rules for handling the topper. Main types of care:
- Cleansing. To do this, the topper can be vacuumed or washed in a washing machine, the choice depends on the degree of contamination of the product.
- Ventilation. Regular air baths not only saturate the mattress with oxygen, but also rid it of allergens. It is not recommended to ventilate during the winter season.
- Shaking (but not knocking out) is an effective way to restore the structure of the filler. It is carried out once every six months, and after the process it is recommended to turn the product over to the other side.
When using a topper, it is undesirable to exceed the load specified by the manufacturer; for example, jumping on it is prohibited. Sofa covers should not be ironed or dry cleaned. If you follow these simple recommendations, a sofa topper will provide a comfortable sleep for a long time, being an affordable solution for organizing an ideal sleeping area, level, comfortable and very cozy.
How to store a topper so it lasts a long time
Once you start using a thin mattress, the question of storing it immediately arises. Toppers are divided into two types based on the type of construction. Some can be rolled, others can be folded like a book. If the topper is temporarily not in use, it is put away in a closet or a special linen drawer.
Modern beds are often equipped with a pull-out storage compartment for bedding located underneath. You can put a mattress pad there. If used very rarely, it is better to pack the product in a large plastic bag to protect it from dust. Of course, you should not roll up a hard topper, as this will immediately render it unusable.
A topper cannot be considered just a nice thing that is not urgently needed. In some cases, such a mattress is simply irreplaceable, because our health directly depends on the quality of sleep. The choice of product should be approached carefully, paying attention to its design, size, upholstery and filler composition. These parameters determine how convenient the topper will be and how long it will last.
Review of products from popular manufacturers
The leading positions among companies specializing in the production of toppers are occupied by several items at the same time. We suggest considering the main ones in more detail.
Thin mattresses ORMATEK
Models belonging to the Softy Plus line are used for folding beds, folding chairs and sofas. There is an opportunity to complete full beds. It attaches well to the surface and is easy to remove. Cotton and a base that does not include spring blocks are used to make the cover. The packaging is compact and equipped with a handle, which is convenient for transportation. Special Velcro is used to secure it to the surface.
Characteristics:
- approximate cost 3,500 rubles;
- low surface hardness;
- height 6 cm;
- permissible load 120 kg.
Prima Plus is able to positively influence the quality of the sleeping place, showing comfort. Can be used when arranging structures equipped with “French clamshell” and “Sedaflex” mechanisms. Can be used as an addition to standard beds. Knitwear is used to sew covers. The internal part is a springless block.
Characteristics:
- cost 9,500 rubles;
- low rigidity;
- structure height 7 cm;
- permissible load 140 kg.
TORIS products
A thin “coconut” mattress is used to increase the rigidity of the sleeping area. Helps level the existing surface. The filler is latexed coconut coir, which belongs to the category of natural and environmentally friendly materials that are not susceptible to rotting. Recognized as hypoallergenic. The cover is made of jacquard, which, thanks to its original properties, does not lose its appearance for a long time.
Characteristics:
- cost 5,500 rubles;
- high rigidity;
- structure height 4 cm;
- permissible load 150 kg.
The “latex” design was able to combine such indicators as orthopedicity, comfort and softness. Latex foam is used as a filler, making the structure hypoallergenic, well permeable to air masses and functional. The material does not absorb foreign odors. For better fastening to the surface, elastic bands are used. The jacquard cover belongs to the removable category.
Characteristics:
- cost 6,000 rubles;
- below average hardness;
- structure height 4 cm;
- permissible load 150 kg.
Toppers RYTON
Sofa Relax is characterized by medium hardness and is used for adjusting the surfaces of folding beds, beds, armchairs and sofas. The filler used is raitex foam, which is characterized as elastic and capable of providing proper support to the spine. Helps relieve muscle fatigue. Quilted calico is used to sew the cover.
Characteristics:
- cost 3,500 rubles;
- average hardness;
- structure height 6 cm;
- permissible load 100 kg.
