What Mattress Topper Is Good for Pillow Top Mattresses?

Memory Foam Toppers

• Memory foam mattress toppers can easily fit on top of pillow top mattresses. The pillow top is made from cotton and padding material, but you may already have memory foam inside your pillow top mattress, depending on the brand. If this is the case, you may not need an additional memory foam topper, unless you want added support. Memory foam is made from space-age material developed by NASA and it molds to the body from all angles without springs or other materials. However, memory foam also traps heat, so this topper can cause you to get too hot at night, especially if you sweat persistently. However, you might want a memory foam topper if you live in a cold environment because the added heat can help keep you warmer at night. Memory foam toppers come in a variety of styles that range from 2 to 6 inches thick.

Down Feather Toppers

• Down feather toppers have a soft, cozy feel without creating too much warmth. This topper is a good choice if you want added cushion and breathability. A thin goose or duck down mattress topper works well in warm climates, such as California or Arizona. Buy a thick down topper if you like the feel of down feathers, but still need more warmth. A down topper on top of a pillow top mattress can create a lot of bulk, so buy extra-large sheets with extended pockets, so the topper stays secure on top of the bed. "Good Housekeeping" magazine notes that down toppers shift a lot, so you need to remove your sheets and fluff the topper once per week to keep it even on all sides. Avoid down toppers if you have allergies to ducks or geese.

Cotton and Silk Toppers

• Cotton and silk toppers offer good circulation and plush comfort without creating too much more bulk on a pillow top mattress. These toppers work well for people with allergies and you can choose the thickness based on your preferences. Many cotton-filled toppers have a silk exterior which adds luxury and softness to your bed. These breathable, yet warm toppers work well in a variety of hot and cold environments.

Egg Crate Toppers

• Choose an egg crate mattress topper for your pillow top if you need more support, but don't have a lot of money to spend. Egg crate toppers add cushion, but they are much cheaper than memory foam, silk or down toppers. These toppers have bumps and grooves that resemble the inside of an egg carton, so only buy this type if you like the feel that these grooves create.