Waking up achy or tossing and turning through the night? Your sleep setup might need a little upgrade! But before jumping into a big purchase and splurging on a new mattress, you might want to consider a simpler – and more budget-friendly – solution: a mattress topper. 

In some cases, the right topper can refresh your sleep surface and provide the support or softness you’re missing. Other times, a topper is just a temporary fix, and replacing your mattress is the real answer. So how do you know which one is right for you? We’re breaking down the signs to look for so you can make the best choice for your sleep and your budget.

A mattress topper is an additional layer that sits on top of your mattress, typically about 2 to 4 inches thick. Think of it as a comfort (and lifeline!) enhancer for your current mattress.

Some people mistake mattress toppers for mattress pads. They’re not the same! Unlike a thin mattress pad that mainly protects your mattress, a topper can significantly change how your bed feels. A quality mattress topper adjusts firmness levels, adds cushioning and can even help with temperature regulation. But while toppers can enhance comfort, they can't fix structural issues in your mattress.

Sometimes, a mattress topper is all you need to refresh your sleep surface. Here's when a topper makes sense:

• Your mattress is relatively new (less than 5 years old), but the firmness isn't quite right.
• You notice minor comfort issues, but your mattress still provides good support.
• You're looking to add extra cushioning for pressure points or, simply, preference.
• You want to extend the life of a mattress that's still in good condition.

A mattress topper can be a smart financial choice too. A new organic mattress can cost $1,000-2,000 or more while a high-quality topper runs between $200-500, depending on size. That's huge savings if your mattress just needs a comfort adjustment rather than a total replacement.

Sometimes, a topper just won't cut it. Watch for signs it's time for a new mattress:

• You see visible sagging or permanent indentations in the mattress surface.
• Springs poke through the surface or you can feel the mattress’s internal structure.
• You're waking up achey or with pain you didn't previously have.
• It's been 7-10 years since you last replaced your mattress.
• You sleep better in other beds (like at hotels).
• You notice increased allergy symptoms without other changes in your environment.

A mattress topper isn't a magic fix for a mattress that's past its prime. While organic toppers are great for adding extra comfort or tweaking firmness levels, they can't rescue a mattress with deep-seated issues like sagging or broken springs. (Oh, and psst! Using a topper on a badly worn mattress might even make things worse by creating an unstable sleep surface. Womp womp.)

When it comes to improving your sleep setup, both mattress toppers and new mattresses have their place – and their price points. Let's break down what you're getting with each option.

Making the right choice for your sleep needs comes down to a few key factors. 

First, take an honest look at your current mattress. Is it slightly uncomfortable but still supportive? A topper might be perfect. Do you often wake up with aches and pains? Might be time for a full replacement! Consider your budget too. A topper is more affordable upfront, but how long do you need this solution to last? If your mattress shows signs of wear, a topper might delay the inevitable. 

Here's what to consider before making your choice:

• Your mattress's current age and condition
• How long you need this solution to last
• What specific sleep issues you're trying to solve
• Your budget, both short and long-term
• The quality of sleep you're currently getting

Whether you choose a topper or a new mattress, investing in quality, organic materials will serve your health and the planet better in the long run. 

At Happsy, we believe everyone deserves restful sleep without compromising on materials or sustainability. That’s why we created affordable, accessible mattresses and mattress toppers – plus the world’s first fully certified organic mattress-in-a-box. 

If you decide a topper is right for you, look for one made with certified organic materials that will boost your sleep without adding harmful chemicals. Time for a new mattress? Consider it an investment in years of better sleep ahead! Either way, your body (and our planet) will thank you for choosing certified organic.

Not sure what "certified organic" means? Learn how GOTS ensures sustainability, ethical practices and transparency.