10 Best Twin XL Mattress Toppers for Your Uncomfy Dorm Room Bed
Trust, your mattress can never be too comfy.
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I'm sure that you're well aware that mattresses are an investment. While they're not exactly the cheapest home necessity, we all need one...and a good one at that. And, yes, there are some legit comfy budget mattresses out there on the internet, but if you'd rather work with what you already got, I don't blame ya! Whether you're living in a dorm room or prefer the size of a twin XL mattress, do yourself a favor and get yourself a good twin XL mattress topper to make that bed a lil cozier. Not to be dramatic, but quality mattress toppers are pretty much a home essential when you want quality sleep, without the price tag of a brand new mattress—and they make the *perfect* gift for the college student in your life. Just saying!!
Not all mattress toppers are made equal, ofc, and they come with all sorts of fills, depending on what kind of cushion you need. While I opt for a down or down alternative topper for soft, feathery support, others prefer a foam or latex topper for something a bit more substantial. You can even find toppers that combine down and foam for the best of both worlds. Since there are so many options, I went ahead and narrowed it down to the best tested and reviewed mattress toppers on the web in 2024.
Our top picks for the best twin XL mattress toppers of 2024:
Trust, these top-rated twin XL mattress toppers will transform your bed into a cushy lil cloud. Oh, and don't forget to treat yourself to some super soft sheets and cozy duvet covers while you're at it!
ViscoSoft Select High Density Mattress Topper
Pros
- Includes elastic straps and slip-resistant bottom
- High-density foam is supportive and breathable
Cons
- Too firm to offer deep contouring
- On the heavy side
Looking for a mattress topper with a medium-firm feel that won't budge as you sleep? Go with this hiiiighly-rated option from ViscoSoft. It's filled with three inches of high-density gel-infused foam that's perforated for better airflow (goodbye, night sweats!!), and it comes with adjustable straps and a slip-resistant mesh bottom to keep it secure to your mattress. The bamboo rayon cover is also removable and washable, which is always a bonus.
- Fill material: Gel-infused memory foam
- Cover material: 40% rayon from bamboo, 60% polyester
- Thickness: 2, 3, or 4 inches
Glowing Customer Review: "I have tried many mattress toppers and by far is this one the most durable, comfortable and while may be a little pricier, well worth it. Bought one for half the price last year and it did not even last a full year. This one is heavy when unboxing but seems very durable. After a month of sleeping on it, I can say it’s VERY comfortable!"
Linenspa Gel Memory Foam Mattress Topper
Pros
- Amazing quality for the price
- Sleeps a lil cooler than traditional foam toppers
Cons
- Cover isn't included and costs $22 extra
- Doesn't have straps for securing to mattress
If you don't wanna drop a ton of cash, go with this bestseller from Linenspa, which has nearly 80,000 five-star reviews on Amazon (nbd!!). Unlike most foam toppers that tend to absorb heat, this bb features gel infusions to help keep you cool as you sleep, and the medium-firm feel provides pressure relief without *too* much sinkage. You also have your choice of a two- or three-inch model.
- Fill material: Gel-infused memory foam
- Cover material: 100% polyester
- Thickness: 2 or 3 inches
Glowing Customer Review: "I'm another one who doesn't normally write reviews. But this mattress topper deserves it. We've been through several expensive mattresses and pillows trying to cure my back and neck pain. I finally found a great memory foam pillow on Amazon but the mattress still wasn't working for me. With all the great reviews I gave this topper a try and it works! I haven't slept this good in a long long time! We tried the 3 inch topper and it was just a little too much to be able to move around. The 2 inch topper is perfect!"
Pros
- Ideal for all sleeping positions
- Mattress is reinforced in center and perimeter for edge support
Cons
- Some reviewers think the topper sleeps hot
- Too firm for some
If you enjoy the responsive feel of an innerspring mattress, you'll love this mattress topper. It's like the Hannah Montana of toppers, you get the best of both worlds: micro-coils and gel-infused foam. At a plush height of 3 inches, the topper contours to your body and is ideal for all sleeping positions. Plus, the topper is super breathable and moisture-wicking thanks to being covered in organic cotton.
- Fill material: Micro-coils and gel-infused foam
- Cover material: 100% organic cotton
- Thickness: 3 inches
Glowing Customer Review: "This mattress topper is wonderful. I have only had it about two weeks, but I haven’t woken up with any aches and pains. Plus - it is SO comfortable. Just the right about of softness without sinking completely into it. So happy I decided to buy it!"
Pros
- Corner straps help keep it secure to mattress
- Provides incredible pressure relief
Cons
- Not a great choice for hot sleepers, as it can trap heat
Ya, it's expensive, but the TEMPUR-Adapt Topper is one of the best memory foam mattress toppers in the game, trust. Made with three inches of the legendary TEMPUR-Material foam (which is designed to adapt to your shape and weight), this medium-feel topper offers ah-mazing cushioning and contouring. Plus, those elastic straps on the corners and the removable, washable cover are clutch. And if you're a hot sleeper, you can add on a specialty cooling cover for an additional $80.
- Fill material: Memory foam
- Cover material: 80% polyester, 20% propylene
- Thickness: 3 inches
Glowing Customer Review: "The Tempur Topper has transformed my sleep experience. Its luxurious feel and body-contouring support turned my mattress into a haven of comfort. The temperature-sensitive technology ensures a personalized sleeping environment, adapting to my body's needs. Not only does it isolate motion effectively, but its durability and easy-to-clean design make it a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking an upgrade in sleep quality. Highly recommended for a restful night's sleep."
LUCID 4" Down Alternative and Gel Memory Foam Mattress Topper
Pros
- Foam topper and down-alternative topper can be used together or separately
- Fitted-sheet style design keeps it secure to bed
Cons
- Down-alternative topper doesn't add a ton of softness, per some testers
- Sleeps a lil too warm for some
Want the cushion of memory foam but the plushness of a pillow top? Get yourself a topper that provides both. This option from LUCID comes with a perforated, gel-infused topper that's two inches thick, as well as a fitted sheet-style down-alternative topper (which is machine-washable, btw) providing two more inches of light and airy support. Best of all, you can use 'em separately or together for the ultimate cushy experience.
- Fill material: Down alternative and gel-infused memory foam
- Cover material: 100% cotton percale
- Thickness: 4 inches
Glowing Customer Review: "My bed was too firm. It caused shoulder pain as a side sleeper. I had doubts that a topper would be a real solution. It's been a couple months now and I'm still getting great sleep. Shoulder pain is gone. I'm not tossing and turning anymore. It does add noticeable height to the bed, but its well worth it."
Sleep On Latex Pure Green Natural Latex Mattress Topper
Pros
- No weird smell after unboxing
- Sleeps *so* cool, thanks to perforated design and natural materials
Cons
- Cover costs an additional $50
- May slide around a bit on bed, as it doesn't have straps to secure
FTR, you won't find a better deal on a latex mattress topper than this bb. Made with natural materials and combining the best elements of Dunlop and Talalay latex foam, this perforated topper is similar in density to a foam topper—but like latex mattresses, it'll sleep a lot cooler and feel a bit softer to the touch than memory foam. You can get it in three thickness options (as well as three firmness levels), depending on how much support you like.
- Fill material: Natural latex foam
- Cover material: 100% organic cotton
- Thickness: 1, 2, or 3 inches
Glowing Customer Review: "I bought a new bed recently that was way too firm. I tried to break it in for several months but couldn't handle anymore painful, sleepless nights. I figured a mattress topper would help but was hesitant to order one online because I'm super sensitive to smells and am an extremely hot sleeper. But the first night I slept on this mattress topper, I was beyond thrilled. I didn't notice any smells at all and I stayed cool throughout the night. Also, it was supportive without feeling like you were sinking (I'm a side sleeper). I've had it for several weeks now and I'm still happy with it."
Pros
- Includes two firmness options and corner straps
- Doesn't trap as much heat as traditional foam
Cons
- Cover can't be removed or washed
- May not provide enough pressure relief for some
If you hate the feeling of sinking into a memory foam bed, you should give this topper from Nolah a try. It's made with two inches of high-density polyurethane foam (aka Airfoam), which tends to sleep cooler than traditional memory foam and offer a bouncier, more responsive feel. Plus, your topper comes with a choice of two firmness levels (plush or luxury firm) and elastic corner straps.
- Fill material: Polyurethane foam
- Cover material: 71% polyester, 24% organic cotton, 4% poly/lycra
- Thickness: 2 inches
Glowing Customer Review: "My firm Nolah mattress topper is the most comfortable topper I have ever slept on. It is not too soft or too firm, it is just right. It also relieves my back pain, and I sleep great. Also being made in the USA is a definite plus."
Pros
- Copper-infused gel works to keep it cool
- Provides great balance of contouring and support
Cons
- Not everyone found the elastic corner straps effective
- Def heavier than other options
Another great option for hot sleepers: this two-inch-thick foam topper from Layla. Because it's infused with copper gel beads, this topper is naturally antimicrobial and works to draw heat away from your body as you snooze—and according to reviewers, it *really* works. The high-density foam provides cozy contouring without too much sinkage, and it also comes with elastic straps and a cooling cover that can be removed and washed.
- Fill material: Copper gel-infused memory foam
- Cover material: 66% polyester, 30% viscose, 4% poly/lycra
- Thickness: 2 inches
Glowing Customer Review: "The Layla memory foam topper feels like I am being held while I am sleeping. It is soft and supportive. I love how it conforms to my body. My favorite part of my night is those first moments after I get into bed when I can feel myself being hugged by the Layla memory foam topper."
Pros
- Baffle box construction keeps fill evenly distributed
- Provides fluffy, cloud-like cushioning
Cons
- Dry-clean-only and doesn't include removable cover or straps
Anyone who loves the feel of a pillow top but wants a lil more substance will appreciate this down-filled mattress topper from Parachute. Stuffed with three inches of 550-fill-power down and encased in a cotton sateen shell, this v luxe option will give any mattress a fluffy, cloud-like feel—and while it provides plenty of sinkage, it's thick enough to keep you somewhat elevated.
- Fill material: 85% down, 15% feather fibers
- Cover material: 100% cotton sateen
- Thickness: 3 inches
Glowing Customer Review: "Wow. No words for how amazing this topper is. Literally feels like you are sleeping on a cloud. I have never had a better nights sleep in my life."
Coop Sleep Goods Retreat Mattress Topper
Pros
- Incredibly plush while still providing support
- Elastic straps keep it from sliding around
Cons
- Sleeps a lil too warm for some
- Spot clean only, as cover isn't removable
Most unique mattress topper out there? It's gotta be this hybrid option. Unlike most memory foam toppers, which are made from a solid block of foam, this bb is packed with a blend of shredded foam and polyester fiber fill, so you don't have to worry about it trapping too much heat. The baffle box construction ensures that your five inches (!!) of fill stay lofty and evenly distributed, and it includes corner straps for a nice, secure fit.
- Fill material: Cross-cut memory foam and microfiber
- Cover material: 100% brushed soft microfiber
- Thickness: 5 inches
Glowing Customer Review: "We bought a great mattress from another vendor but realized it's too firm. This mattress topper has completely changed our sleep! No more aching hips and back in the morning. It keeps the temperature neutral, which is crucial with hot flashes taking up residence. 100% would recommend."
Is a mattress topper the same as a mattress pad?
Bedding can be confusing, tbh, but—just as duvets differ from comforters—mattress toppers and mattress pads are not the same thing. Mattress pads are typically less than two inches thick, and though they can make your bed feel a bit more plush, they won't offer much in terms of pressure relief. They can also work to shield your mattress from moisture and dirt, as they're typically designed like a fitted sheet and can be washed just as easily—but they likely won't protect your mattress *quite* as well as a mattress protector (which is, yes, another totally different thing).
Mattress toppers, on the other hand, provide a more substantial layer of support, so they're usually more expensive than mattress pads. They'll also make a noticeable change to the firmness level of your mattress. Just keep in mind that, while some toppers come with washable covers, mattress toppers themselves are usually spot-clean-only.
How to choose the best twin XL mattress topper
Not sure what kind of twin XL mattress topper is right for you? Here are a few tips to get ya started:
Choose the right fill material
Toppers come in a range of styles, so you'll wanna consider how you like to sleep and what your mattress is lacking. Foam mattress toppers are the most popular option, as they provide cushioning and support, but they tend to sleep a bit hot, since foam (particularly memory foam) absorbs body heat. Latex toppers offer a similar feel but a lil more breathability (thanks to the natural materials), while down and down-alternative toppers will give your bed plushness rather than pressure relief.
Consider the cover material
The material used for your topper cover or shell will also affect how well you sleep. Covers made with natural fibers (like cotton or bamboo) tend to be more breathable and cooling, while those made with synthetic materials (like polyester or microfiber) may not work as well for hot sleepers. However! Synthetic materials are typically cheaper, so if you're shopping on a budget, then they're your best bet.
Look for bonus features
In addition to having a removable, washable cover, the best mattress toppers usually include elastic straps on the corners that'll keep 'em secure to your mattress. These aren't *totally* necessary (especially since mattress toppers go under your fitted sheet), but they can def come in handy, especially if you shift positions a lot in your sleep.
Why trust 'Cosmo'?
Not to brag or anything, but helping you (yes, you!) obtain The Perfect Night of Sleep™️ is one of our many specialties here at Cosmo. For those who are tired of tossing and turning on a worn-down twin XL mattress, our informed editors scoured through reviews and firsthand tests to select the mattress toppers that really deserve the hype. All for your next cool, relaxing round of Zzzs. Sweet dreams.
Corinne Sullivan is an Editor at Cosmopolitan, where she covers a variety of beats, including lifestyle, entertainment, relationships, shopping, and more. She can tell you everything you need to know about the love lives of A-listers, the coziest bedsheets, and the sex toys actually worth your $$$. She is also the author of the 2018 novel Indecent. Follow her on Instagram for cute pics of her pup and bébé.
Chaise Sanders is an Associate Editor at Cosmopolitan, where she covers anything from lifestyle and beauty to entertainment and style. Wanna upgrade your skincare game? She's got you covered with the best facial cleansing brushes. Or maybe you're in need of a new true crime show to binge? Got that covered too! Prior to joining the Cosmo team, Chaise was an editor at Country Living (also part of the Hearst fam) where she interviewed celebs like Dolly Parton, LeAnn Rimes and even Martha Stewart. Now, as one of the Big Apple's newest residents, there's a good chance that you can catch her checking out an Insta-worthy cafe or spending way to much $$$ in vintage stores.
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