How to Use a Mattress Topper: 5 Common Questions We Get

Last Updated on March 21, 2024

by Marc Werner, Founder - GhostBed

Here at GhostBed, we're proud of our fantastic team of Sleep Experts. Each team member gets extensive training with our leadership, and they sit right next door to our showroom in sunny Plantation, FL. They know our products inside and out. And they know their way around any question you could come up with sleep-wise!

Below, we'll share the top 5 questions our Sleep Experts get about our cooling mattress topper in particular. These common questions include how to use it properly, how to set it up and more.

A young woman places a memory foam mattress topper on her bed.

Question #1: How Are Mattress Toppers Different from Protectors?

Mattress toppers and protectors may sound similar, but they are two entirely different things.

Here's how they differ:

  • Mattress toppers are usually an inch thick or more and are typically made of memory foam, latex, down or wool. You can use a topper to make your bed more comfortable and prolong its life.
  • Mattress protectors, on the other hand, are much thinner. They're usually made of polyester or cotton blends and are meant to keep your mattress clean and free of dust mites, bed bugs and spills.

Both mattress toppers and protectors have their benefits. If you want tons of extra comfort without a huge investment, go for a mattress topper. Opt for a protector if you just want to keep your mattress clean.

Or for the best of both worlds, go with the GhostBed Memory Foam Topper! Our 3" memory foam topper comes with a waterproof cover, eliminating the need for an extra purchase.

3" of contouring & cooling gel memory foam, with a deep-pocket waterproof cover included.

Related Question: Do You Put a Mattress Protector Over a Memory Foam Topper?

A memory foam topper can provide an extra layer of cushioning and support right where you need it. So if you've got one, do you still need to use a mattress protector? While mattress protectors are not required, they can help prolong the life of your memory foam topper and keep it clean.

A mattress protector will create an additional barrier between you and your topper, which helps keep it clean. Some mattress protectors (like our GhostProtector!) are made with breathable materials, which can help you from getting too hot at night.

Question #2: Do Mattress Toppers Really Work?

Why buy a mattress topper, anyway? Mattress toppers provide some impressive benefits—especially if you're waking up in pain or your mattress is on the older side. Memory foam toppers, for example, contour and cradle your body while relieving pressure points. Using a mattress topper can improve sleep quality, particularly if you suffer from back pain or other health issues.

In addition, a memory foam mattress topper can:

  • Soften a too-firm mattress or firm up a too-soft one
  • Add comfort and support, alleviating aches and pains
  • Extend the life of your mattress
  • Reduce motion transfer if you sleep with a partner

Knowing when it's time to replace your old mattress is essential, but a topper is a smart solution if you're not ready to do that yet.

Question #3: Which Way Does a Mattress Topper Go?

Woman demonstrates how to properly use a mattress topper, with the textured "comfort zones" facing up

Looking at the photo above, you will see that the GhostBed mattress topper has one side loaded with texture, peaks and grooves. That's the side that goes up. The flat side lays against your mattress.

These varying heights and patterns cradle your body in all different places. If you're familiar with the "egg crate style" toppers of yesteryear, it's a similar sensation—but even better!

See the area with the circles above? It's specially designed to support your torso and soothe pressure points.

Bonus: those peaks and grooves also help promote airflow, so you stay cool all night long.

Question #4: How Do I Get My Mattress Topper to Stay in Place?

Worried about your mattress topper sliding off your bed? While your fitted sheet will help keep it in place, you can look for additional features to help:

  • Buy a topper with elastic loops that go over the corners of your bed
  • Use a mattress protector over the top of the mattress topper
  • Shop for a topper and protector set with an elastic band around the bottom (like our signature GhostGrip)

Question #5: How Do You Clean a Mattress Topper?

Wondering how to clean a memory foam topper? Whatever you do, don't put memory foam in the washing machine as it can damage the materials. Instead, spot clean any stains with a clean cloth and a mild detergent. For tougher stains, you can use an enzymatic spray or a DIY solution of baking soda and vinegar.

With proper care, your memory foam mattress topper will stay clean, fresh and incredibly comfortable.

Have any questions that weren't addressed here? Reach out to our Sleep Experts whenever you're ready. We're always happy to help!

3" of contouring & cooling gel memory foam, with a deep-pocket waterproof cover included.


Marc Werner - Founder, GhostBed

Marc Werner

Founder - GhostBed

Twitter LinkedIn

Marc has spent the last two decades designing & manufacturing mattresses and other sleep products, drawing on a lifetime of experience working with the material sciences. With several patents to his name, he works closely with the GhostBed team to create products with the perfect balance of comfort & support. Learn More

Affirm Financing

Flex Payment

36-Month Flex Pay Option

Most Orders Ship Within 24 Hours

Shop Mattresses
  • Visa
  • Mastercard
  • American Express
  • Apple Pay
  • Google Pay
  • Shop Pay

One-Time Payment

Pay Once. Rest Easy.

Most Orders Ship Within 24 Hours

Shop Mattresses