Whether you have an existing mattress or a new one, the sleeping experience often isnβt complete without a mattress pad or topper. This is especially true if youβre dealing with back pain. Having that extra layer of comfort and support can do wonders in terms of relief. Plus, pads and toppers also serve to protect the mattress underneath.
If youβre looking to relieve some backaches, there are plenty of pads to choose from. Tempur-Pedic, for instance, is one of the go-to brands for pressure-relief beddings. Toppers from BedStory and ViscoSoft are also available if youβre looking for cooling options. To help you decide, however, weβve narrowed down the top five best mattress pads for back pain below.
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Best Mattress Pads for Back Pain Comparison Chart
Best Overall Mattress Pad for Back Pain
The Tempur-Topper Supreme from Tempur-Pedic is arguably the best mattress topper to get.

Tempur-Pedic is best known for popularizing the use of memory foam in mattresses. But there are instances when the material can be too firm for some sleepers, causing back pain instead. Aside from choosing a mattress like the TempurPedic ProAdapt, getting a topper is another solution. Itβs also a less expensive alternative than buying a new mattress altogether. Thankfully, Tempur-Pedic also carries mattress toppers, with the Tempur-Topper Supreme arguably being the most popular.
Made from proprietary Tempur material, the 3-inch topper easily contours to a sleeperβs body without that sinking feeling. Some of the reviews even note that βthe material bounces back to its original shape each day.β Others vouch for the topperβs ability to relieve back pain. Plus, the plush padβs cover is dust-mite and allergen-resistant. Homeowners can get the Tempur-Topper Supreme in 6 sizes. Itβs also backed by a 10-year warranty.
Available Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
Pros
- Breathable cover
- Conforming Tempur material
- Impressive resiliance
Cons
- Expensive
- Not machine-washable
Best Budget Mattress Pad for Back Pain
Subrtex’s Gel-Infused Memory Foam Pad is an impressive, value-for-money purchase.

If Tempur-Pedicβs premium pad exceeds your budget, there are plenty of affordable options to choose from. Arguably the best of the wallet-friendly mattress pads is the Subrtex Gel-Infused Memory Foam Pad. As its name suggests, Subrtexβs topper uses gel-infused memory foam for multi-layer comfort. The pad is also designed with holes for ventilation and improved air circulation. Thanks to its density, the pad also minimizes motion transfer.
Sleepers can also choose from three thickness variations β two, three, or four inches. Regardless of the variant, Subrtex shares that its memory foam effectively distributes the pressure across various parts of the body during sleep. If you want to relieve your lower back or hip pain, this is a great option. Just like the Tempur-Topper Supreme, Subrtexβs cooling pad comes with a 10-year warranty. Itβs also CertiPUR-US and OEKO-TEX-certified.
Available sizes: 2, 3, and 4 inches | Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King
Pros
- Cooling, perforated design
- Eco-friendly
Cons
- No cover included
Best Cool Relief Mattress Pad for Back Pain
The BedStory Bamboo Charcoal Infused Memory Foam topper self-regulates temperature and minimizes odor.

Conforming and supportive memory foam mattress pads often come at the expense of temperature control. But not with the BedStoryβs best-selling topper. Its Bamboo Charcoal Infused Memory Foam Mattress Topper is designed for both comfort and cool relief. With the dense memory foam, the pad adds extra firmness to old and sagging mattresses. It also offers pressure relief by gently cradling your bodyβs pressure points.
Meanwhile, the bamboo charcoal helps eliminate odor to keep the topper fresh and smelling clean. Just like Subrtex, BedStoryβs mattress pad also features perforations to make it more breathable. The memory foam material is also infused with a cooling gel that wicks away moisture for a more comfortable sleep. BedStoryβs 3-inch topper is hypoallergenic, dust-mite resistant, and machine washable. Best of all, the pad is available with free shipping and returns.
Available sizes: Twin, Full, Queen, King
Pros
- Cooling and odor-eliminating
- Machine washable
- Free shipping and returns
Cons
- Corner straps are a bit loose
Best Gel-Infused Mattress Pad for Back Pain
ViscoSoft’s high-density Select mattress topper is arguably the best gel-infused model in the market today.

While the Subrtex and BedStory pads are also gel-infused, it’s hard to discount ViscoSoft’s topper. Like BedStory, the ViscoSoft Select Mattress Topper can eliminate odors on its own. Users can opt for either charcoal or lavender-infused models, both of which are designed to promote a clean sleeping environment. ViscoSoft’s offering comes with a breathable mesh cover and secure no-slip corner straps, too. As expected, it’s also machine-washable.
Similar to Subrtex, ViscoSoft’s 3-inch topper has a medium support feel. The high-density bedding feels plush but has enough resistance to push back for better back support. This helps relieve pressure points and promote spinal alignment. According to ViscoSoft, its Select Mattress Topper is compatible with all kinds of sleepers. It’s also backed by a 5-year warranty, a 60-night guarantee, and free delivery within 4 days.
Available sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen Short, Queen, King, California King
Pros
- Available in two infused-variants
- High-density
- Great contouring performance
Cons
- Takes a while to firm up
Best Extra Thick Mattress Pad for Back Pain
The ELEMUSE Cooling Mattress Topper is a plush option for those who want extra comfort.

Sleepers who want a hotel-esque experience will be drawn to the ELEMUSE Cooling Mattress Topper. Made with 400TC cotton, the topper is soft to touch and breathable. For hot summer nights, you get a cooling effect from the pad. For cold autumn and winter months, however, the topper offers enough warmth and coziness. Instead of a strap, ELEMUSE also opts for deep elastic pockets that can fit mattresses 8 to 21 inches thick.
Now, the extra-thick bedding features a baffle box construction for even distribution of its down alternative fill. This material provides reliable support, although not to the same extent as memory foam or hybrid toppers. Still, this luxurious-looking topper has enough cushioning for tired and tried sleepers. For those with mild backaches and pains, it’s a wallet-friendly and aesthetically pleasing option. It’s easy to care for the product, too, since it’s machine-washable.
Pros
- Soft and plush feel
- Elastic corner pockets
Cons
- Moderate back support only
Verdict
Among the models reviewed, Tempur-Pedic and ViscoSoft’s mattress pads are the best for back support.
The cause of back pains vary. As such, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis. In most cases, however, a mattress pad can help relieve some of the pain while offering comfort and support as you sleep. If you’re in the market for one, then any of the models reviewed above are worth considering. Still, Tempur-Pedic’s Topper Supreme is a clear standout. It’s a premium and expensive topper, one definitely worth it for its impressive ability to mold to a sleeper’s body.
Meanwhile, ViscoSoft’s 3-inch Select gel-infused topper comes in a close second. While there are other gel-infused pads and toppers in this list, ViscoSoft’s offering has a better combination of features. Aside from its impressive high-density construction, the Select topper is available in lavender and charcoal-infused variants. In both cases, they help keep your bed fresh, clean, and odor-free.
FAQs
If your mattress is a pain in the back, then mattress pads and toppers are a cost-effective alternative to buying a new one altogether. The best mattress pads and toppers cradle a sleeper’s body without a sinking feeling. They typically come with breathable mesh fabrics and covers, too.
Tempur-Pedic’s Tempur-Topper supreme is the best mattress for back pain. The premium mattress topper offers 3-inches of medium-firm support. It also comes in cooling variants.
Both mattress pads and toppers add plush layers to your bed. Toppers, however, are thicker versions of pads.
Many of today’s mattress pads are designed with pores or perforations. These holes help circulate air, allowing proper ventilation that keeps sleepers cool.
Last update on 2022-05-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API