Which Is Better: Foam or Siliconized Mattress Toppers?

Foam Topper Advantages

• Foam mattress toppers consist of a foam layer surrounded by a soft fabric covering. They minimize the movement felt in the bed. When someone rolls over or moves in a different way, anyone else in the bed won't feel that movement. Foam toppers are considered suitable for people with certain medical conditions, including arthritis. Their padding cushions the sleeper, reducing strain on aching joints and muscles.

Silicone-Based Topper Advantages

• Silicone-based mattress toppers are similar to latex mattress toppers, which contain a layer of rubber inside a fabric shell. The toppers have a silicone gel center that mimics the feel of rubber. The silicone molds to the user's body during its first use, offering cushioning and support. Silicone has hypoallergenic properties, which is beneficial for people with allergies or sensitive skin, except for those who are allergic to silicone. The silicone-based mattress toppers are as durable as foam mattress toppers.

Disadvantages

• Foam mattress toppers act as an insulator, which might make their users feel warmer than they did before placing the product on the bed. Foam toppers also have an unusual scent that users adjust to over time. Cleaning foam toppers is difficult because most varieties cannot be washed in a home washing machine due to their size. Also, foam toppers lose their original shape with frequent use.

  Silicone-based toppers have the same disadvantages as foam toppers, including the problems of cleaning and losing their original shape. In addition, people who are allergic to silicone-based products cannot use a silicone topper.

Considerations

• Silicone-based and foam mattress toppers have specific advantages and disadvantages. The best kind is the one that meets its user's needs. A foam topper may be best for people who want a luxurious mattress but cannot afford the price of such a mattress. A foam mattress topper may help people who need more support while sleeping. A silicone-based mattress topper may be best for people who need a product that supports them while still offering some freedom of movement. Users may feel the silicone gel underneath the fabric cover, however, and decide to opt for another type of topper.