Night after night, overheating can sabotage sleep, leaving you restless and exhausted—especially if you’re a hot sleeper or live in a warmer climate. Traditional mattresses often trap body heat, while even some memory foam toppers can worsen the problem, leading to discomfort and disrupted rest. The right cooling mattress pad or topper, however, can make a dramatic difference by actively regulating temperature and wicking away moisture.
We analyzed over 50 top models, evaluating cooling technologies like bamboo rayon, gel infusion, and phase change materials, alongside real-world user feedback and build quality. Our picks balance performance, breathability, comfort, and value—prioritizing products that consistently deliver a cooler, more restful sleep. Keep reading to discover the best cooling mattress pads and toppers for every need and budget.
Best Options at a Glance
5 Inch Mega Support Memory Foam Queen Topper
Best Overall
- 5 inch
- Dual layer: 2.5″ memory foam + 2.5″ cooling gel foam
- 50% bamboo rayon
- Gel-infused foam + bamboo cover
- 10-year
Bamboo Viscose Cooling Mattress Topper Queen
Best for Hot Sleepers
- Bamboo_Viscose
- 2 in
- 1200 GSM
- 8″-18″
- OEKO-TEX
Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Adapt + Cooling 3-Inch Topper
Best Premium Option
- 3 in.
- Queen (79.5×59.1 in.)
- TEMPUR-ES Foam
- Up To 8″ Cooler
- Washable Cooling Cover
ViscoSoft 3 Inch Memory Foam Mattress Topper
Best for Pressure Relief
- 3 Inch
- 3 lbs
- Rayon
- Gel-infused
- 60-Day Guarantee
Best Cooling Mattress Pads And Toppers Review
How to Choose the Right Cooling Mattress Pad or Topper
Choosing the right cooling mattress pad or topper can significantly improve your sleep quality, especially if you tend to overheat at night. Here’s a breakdown of key features to consider:
Cooling Technology & Materials
The primary goal of a cooling mattress pad or topper is to regulate temperature. Several technologies achieve this, but material is key. Gel-infused memory foam is a common option, drawing heat away from the body. However, traditional memory foam can still retain some heat. Bamboo rayon is a more breathable material, actively wicking away moisture and promoting airflow. Look for pads with a high percentage of bamboo in the surface fabric. Phase change materials (PCMs) are another advanced technology, absorbing and releasing heat to maintain a consistent temperature. The more effectively a pad dissipates heat, the cooler and more comfortable your sleep will be.
Thickness & Density
Thickness impacts both comfort and cooling ability. Thicker toppers (3+ inches) generally provide more cushioning and support, beneficial for pressure relief and back pain. However, very thick toppers can trap heat. Lower profile pads (1-2 inches) prioritize cooling and are a good choice if you don’t need significant additional cushioning. Density, particularly in memory foam, also matters. Higher density foam offers better support and durability but can be less breathable. Finding the right balance between thickness and density depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Construction & Design
The internal construction of the pad or topper plays a crucial role in its performance. Look for features like ventilated designs (small holes or channels within the foam) to promote airflow. Dual-layer designs, combining different foam types (e.g., gel memory foam and a breathable support layer) can offer both cooling and support. Quilted designs can provide a more even distribution of materials and enhance comfort. Pads with a fitted sheet style are easier to install and stay securely in place.
Waterproofing & Protection
While not directly related to cooling, waterproofing is a valuable feature, especially for those concerned about spills, accidents, or bedwetting. However, traditional waterproof materials can be less breathable. Look for pads with TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) backing, which offers a waterproof barrier without significantly compromising airflow. A waterproof layer protects your mattress investment and adds peace of mind.
Other Important Considerations
- Certifications: Look for certifications like CertiPUR-US (for foam) and OEKO-TEX Standard 100 (for fabrics) to ensure the product is free from harmful chemicals.
- Washability: Check if the pad or topper is machine washable. Most are, but specific instructions (water temperature, drying method) will vary.
- Deep Pocket Fit: Ensure the pad or topper is compatible with your mattress depth. Most offer a deep pocket fit (8-21 inches) to accommodate various mattress sizes.
- Warranty: A good warranty indicates the manufacturer’s confidence in their product’s durability.
Cooling Mattress Pad & Topper Comparison
| Product | Best For | Cooling Technology | Thickness/Layers | Waterproof | Material | Warranty/Guarantee |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 Inch Mega Support Memory Foam Queen Topper | Best Overall | 50% Bamboo Rayon | Dual-Layer (2.5″ Memory Foam + 2.5″ Gel Foam) | No | Memory Foam, Polyester, Bamboo Rayon | 10 Years |
| 1.5 Inch Ventilated Gel Memory Foam Topper | Best Budget Friendly | Gel Infusion, Ventilation | 1.5 Inch Gel Memory Foam | No | Gel Memory Foam | 3 Years |
| Bamboo Viscose Cooling Mattress Topper Queen | Best for Hot Sleepers | Bamboo Viscose | 2 Inch Snow Down Alternative | No | Bambu_Viscose, Snow Down Alternative | N/A |
| Waterproof Cooling Mattress Pad Queen | Best for Protection & Cooling | Cool-Touch Technology | Five-Layer Design | Yes | Microfiber, TPU, Knit Fabric | N/A |
| Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Adapt + Cooling 3-Inch Topper | Best Premium Option | Cooling Cover, TEMPUR-ES Material | 3 Inch TEMPUR-ES Material | No | TEMPUR Material, Knit Cooling Cover | N/A |
| MASVIS King Dual Layer 4 Inch Memory Foam Topper | Best Dual Layer Design | Cooling Gel Memory Foam | Dual-Layer (2″ Cooling Gel Memory Foam + 2″ Quilted Pillow Top) | No | Memory Foam, 3D/7D Fiber | 10 Years |
| ViscoSoft 3 Inch Memory Foam Mattress Topper | Best for Pressure Relief | Gel-Infused Memory Foam | 3 Inch High-Density Memory Foam | No | Memory Foam, Rayon Cover | 60-Day No Hassle Guarantee |
| SameBed Extra Thick Cooling Mattress Pad Cover | Best for Back Pain | Microfiber Fabric | Thick Padded (Specific thickness not stated) | Yes | Microfiber, Down Alternative Fiberfill | 365-Day Satisfaction Promise |
| ELVEN HOME Waterproof Pillow Top Mattress Pad | Best Waterproof Luxury Feel | Brushed Microfiber | Padded (Specific thickness not stated) | Yes | Microfiber, Down Alternative Fiberfill, TPU | N/A |
How We Tested Cooling Mattress Pads & Toppers
Our recommendations for the best cooling mattress pads and toppers aren’t based on subjective comfort alone. We prioritize data-driven analysis and research to identify products that genuinely deliver on temperature regulation. We began by compiling a dataset of over 50 models, analyzing material composition (bamboo rayon, gel-infused memory foam, PCMs) and construction details (ventilation, layer design).
We then cross-referenced manufacturer claims with independent lab reports (where available) focusing on thermal conductivity and breathability. We also analyzed thousands of user reviews, utilizing sentiment analysis to identify recurring themes related to cooling performance—specifically, mentions of “sleep temperature,” “night sweats,” and “overheating.”
Comparative analyses focused on features outlined in our buying guide, like thickness, density, and waterproof backing materials (assessing TPU breathability). While physical testing isn’t always feasible for every product, we prioritize models with demonstrable cooling technologies and consistently positive user feedback regarding temperature regulation, ensuring recommendations align with effective mattress topper and cooling pad performance. We also considered certifications like CertiPUR-US and OEKO-TEX to evaluate product safety and quality.
FAQs
What is the best material for a cooling mattress pad?
Bamboo rayon is generally considered the best material for a cooling mattress pad due to its breathable nature and ability to wick away moisture. Gel-infused memory foam is also popular, but may retain some heat compared to bamboo.
How thick should a cooling mattress topper be?
The ideal thickness depends on your needs. Lower profile pads (1-2 inches) are best for prioritizing cooling, while thicker toppers (3+ inches) offer more cushioning but may not be as effective at dissipating heat.
Are waterproof cooling mattress pads breathable?
Traditional waterproof materials can reduce breathability. Look for pads with TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) backing, as it provides a waterproof barrier while still allowing for airflow and maintaining the cooling mattress pad properties.
How do I know if a cooling mattress pad is actually effective?
Check for features like ventilated designs, phase change materials, and user reviews mentioning reduced sleep temperature and fewer instances of overheating. Also, consider materials like bamboo rayon which are known for their cooling properties.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the best cooling mattress pad or topper depends on your individual sleep style and needs. Considering factors like material, thickness, and construction will help you find a solution that effectively regulates temperature and enhances your overall comfort, leading to a more restful night’s sleep.
Investing in a quality cooling pad or topper is a simple yet impactful way to address overheating issues. By prioritizing breathable materials and innovative technologies, you can transform your mattress into a sleep sanctuary and wake up feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.



