How to Know if You Need a Mattress Topper or New Mattress

We know how it feels to get a bad night’s sleep on an old mattress: grogginess, soreness, fatigue. All you can think of as you go about your day is that next chance to catch up on your rest, to recharge and recoup for tomorrow. 

While many environmental and health-related factors can affect your sleep, sometimes the culprit is closer to home. ¹It might even be the thing you rely on most at night.

How do you feel about your current mattress? Is it doing its part to keep you rested and ready for life’s ups and downs? If you’ve been struggling to sleep consistently, chances are you could benefit from a mattress topper or new mattress. 

But how do you decide which route is the right one for you? Follow along in this blog to find out. 

Should I Replace My Mattress or Get a Topper?

You’ve identified the need to make a change in how you sleep. But what steps should you take to wake up refreshed and ready for tomorrow? Mattress topper vs new mattress—how can you tally the score for extra comfort?

There are some important questions you can ask yourself to determine if you should buy a new mattress or memory foam topper for your existing mattress. While some factors, such as budget, might encourage you to try out a mattress topper before committing to a brand new mattress, some issues might be due to the mattress itself.

When to Get a New Mattress

Finding the right mattress can be difficult, but knowing when to find an upgrade can be even harder.² Some things to ask yourself if you think you might need a new mattress include:

• Has it been seven years already? – Wondering how often you should replace your mattress? Experts agree that the lifespan of a quality mattress ranges from seven to ten years at most. If you’ve been struggling to get a good night’s sleep on an old mattress mattress, it might be time to make a change.

• Does it sag? – You might prefer your plush or firm mattress, but no one likes getting into a bed that neither supports you nor keeps you comfortable for the night ahead. If your older mattress sags and is generally uneven, you could need a new one. Mattress sagging can make it incredibly difficult to get a good night’s sleep. It can also lead to more harm for your back. 

• Is it hot in here? – Nothing quite ruins sleep like waking up in a pool of sweat. You might naturally sleep hot, but that doesn’t mean your old mattress should make it worse. You might need a new type of mattress that keeps you cool. In which case, a cooling mattress that helps prevent overheating might be better suited for you.

• Is there any damage? – If your mattress is splitting at the seams, torn from an accident during a recent move, or covered in stains no amount of steam-cleaning seems to make it disappear, it’s probably time to move on to something better.

If you notice any of the above in your existing mattress, consider buying a new one. Need help with how to choose a mattress? Check out our mattress quiz.

Whether you want a soft mattress or firm mattress, every Casper mattress is made with long lasting comfort and support.

Casper Dream Max

Ergonomically engineered to help relieve pressure & cradle you all night, the Dream Max is our most supportive mattress for your dreamiest sleep.

Foam Mattress Topper

Transform your bed and add Casper comfort with a luxuriously plush topper

When to Get a Mattress Topper

Do you keep asking yourself do I need a mattress topper? If you’re not quite ready to give up on your bed, you could benefit from trying out a quality memory foam mattress topper. With so many different designs and materials to choose from, it’s never been easier to upgrade your bed without breaking the bank.

In the new mattress vs mattress topper debate, here’s what you might want to consider when deciding in favor of the latter: 

• Is my mattress too soft? – If your mattress is getting old or if you purchased a mattress that doesn’t quite meet your needs, you can always try adding a thick topper to provide you the comfort and stability you need to make it through the night.

• Is it too firm? – If you want something plush to keep you cozy, a foam or feather mattress topper can offer premium comfort without sacrificing support.

• Can I afford a new mattress? – Maybe it’s not in your budget. Maybe you just spent a lot on a bed you’re not quite willing to give up on. Whatever the reason, you can rest assured knowing that a good mattress topper can vastly improve your sleeping situation at a fraction of the cost.

Our Foam Mattress Topper adds luxurious plush comfort to your sleep setup. Made with three layers of comfort and breathable foam, you’ll be able to transform your bed significantly.

Need help finding a mattress topper? Learn how to choose a mattress topper that suits your needs.

Find Mattresses, Toppers, and More at Casper

We understand what it means to sleep better. We also know that it can be difficult to choose between getting rid of a mattress or trying to reinforce it with a new mattress topper. Whether you want to invest in a new design that caters to your body and sleeping position or would prefer to give your current mattress a budget-friendly glow-up, you’ve found yourself in good company amongst the sleep experts at Casper. 

Whatever you decide, you can rest assured knowing that Casper not only cares but has the expertise to guide you to a more restful tomorrow.⁵

Sources: 

1. WebMD. Causes of Sleep Problems. https://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/sleep-disorders-causes 
2. Sleep Foundation. How Long Should A Mattress Last?. https://www.sleepfoundation.org/mattress-information/how-long-should-a-mattress-last