Experts share 4 mattress toppers that will extend the life of your mattress

When it comes to getting a good night’s sleep, the quality of your mattress plays a huge role.However, even the best mattresses can lose their edge over time, or maybe they just don’t offer the comfort or support you’re looking for.

This is where a firm mattress topper comes into play.A mattress topper is an additional layer of cushioning that sits on top of your mattress to help increase those ZZZs.Mattress toppers also serve as a protective layer, helping to extend the life of your mattress by reducing wear and tear.“In many cases, this can give the mattress a couple of extra years before needing a complete replacement,” said John Merwin, CEO of 3Z Brands and Founder of Brooklyn Bedding.

However, he admitted that this is not the case if your mattress is already “sagging” and that a topper will only “provide temporary relief rather than a lasting fix.” If you’re a side sleeper, you’ll want a topper that cushions the curves of your body while still offering support.Back and stomach sleepers may need something a bit firmer to help keep their spine aligned through the night.Now, throw a dog or a partner into the mix, and you’ll want something that absorbs movement, especially if your bedmate tends to flail like they’re fighting off nightmares.

And if you sent your kid to college, have mercy on their youthful bodies because you know they’re sleeping on subpar mattresses.Just give them a shot at avoiding lower back pain until at least 40.Truly, toppers are the cheapest way to improve your sleep without buying a new mattress.

How often should you replace your mattress topper? If you already own one but aren’t sure if it’s time for an upgrade, sleep expert Merwin recommends replacing it every three to five years.Over time, even the best toppers can lose their shape, trap heat, or stop providing the support you need for restful sleep.If your topper feels flat, lumpy or you’re waking up sore more often than not, it’s probably past it...