The best mattress toppers

But as well as providing added comfort (in the form of firm support or squashy cushioning), a mattress topper will protect your mattress from stains and dust mites.

Size is important: mattress toppers come in lots of different sizes - so make sure you buy a super king, king size, double or single mattress topper depending on the size of your bed.  You might also find that your bed sheet becomes quite snug or no longer fits because of the extra height and depth created by your mattress topper - in which case you could opt for flat sheets, a deep or an extra deep sheet (to measure, take the depth of both mattress and topper into account, with a little room to spare). 

Mattress toppers vary in thickness: a thicker option is a good idea if you're making the best of an old mattress, if you weigh a lot, or if you sleep on your side. It's worth noting at this point that there's a difference between mattress pads and mattress toppers. Mattress pads are generally thinner, and have slightly different functions - for example, you can buy water-proof, heated, cooling or anti-allergy mattress pads. 

As well as thickness, consider the material: generally, you'll find you have latex, memory foam, polyester, wool and feathers to choose from. If you're looking for a topper to provide the firmness you need to tackle back pain, look for a durable memory foam or latex to support your body. Unless you're allergic to latex, it's antimicrobial and non-allergenic. However, it's worth remembering that latex and memory foam retain the most body heat (despite the addition of airflow and ventilation technology, cooling gel and gel-infused technology to some), which might not be so agreeable come summer - and in terms of budget, they can be expensive.

If you're looking for a softer (and more wallet-friendly) addition to your bedding, look for natural fibres like cotton or down, which has a luxurious, sumptuous feel. Natural materials such as wool, down and feathers are warm in winter but breathe well in the summer: wool is durable, and doesn't tend to attract bed bugs. But while goose and duck down is fabulous, it's probably not thick enough to shield you from a lumpy or hard mattress, or to bolster you if you experience back pain or have a bad back.

1. John Lewis luxury memory foam mattress topper with microfibre

This topper has all the firmness and support of a memory foam mattress (it's 6 inches thick - ideal if you suffer from aches and pains), but also comfort and softness thanks to the addition of a layer of down-esque microfibre and a cotton cover. John Lewis also do an excellent Hungarian Goose mattress topper as part of their Natural Collection (£200 - £350). 

2. Eve mattress topper 

For simple luxury bedding solutions at a reasonable price, check out Eve. The addition of their clever mattress topper (they only have one, to  relieve you of choice anxiety) will upgrade your bed immediately: 5cm thick, it's made of breathable foam manufactured in the UK. If you're not convinced, fear not - it comes with a 3-year guarantee.  We also like the Eve memory foam pillow.

3. Heaven luxury supreme double mattress topper by Vispring

This is an uber-luxe mattress topper featuring a stylish trim. It's an indulgence for those who are willing to splash out on their boudoir. Handmade and filled only with natural fibres including certified British fleece wool, blended British wool and cotton, plus South American horse tail hair, it creates a dreamy, floating sensation as it envelopes you. It's made to order, and is usually delivered within 5-7 weeks. Heavenly.

4. Sealy 'Posturepedic' elite memory foam double mattress topper

This 7cm thick memory foam mattress 'enhancer' is designed to promote muscle relaxation and leave you well-rested. It's made with polyurethane filling and has a polyester cover - but it ventilates well and is machine-washable at 30 degrees. 

5. Downland duck feather double mattress topper

If you're looking for a duck feather mattress topper to provide you with a cloud-like sensation for a good price, we recommend Downland. This topper has a 100% cotton cover and a duck feather filling, is machine washable at 40C and suitable for tumble drying. Sorted.

5. Deep contour memory foam mattress topper

This 6cm memory foam mattress moulds to fit around you and then springs back into shape. Made in the UK, you can machine wash and tumble dry it, and it's made from 100% polyester. If you're after natural fibres, Marks and Spencers also do a great range of duck feather, down, wool and cotton mattress toppers.

6. Silentnight luxury hotel collection double mattress topper 

A polyester mattress topper and a good value buy, featuring elasticated corner straps for an easy-fit. Hard to go too far wrong.