New mattresses are expensive, but there are plenty of other ways to add comfort and utility to an old one. A mattress topper fits over the top of an existing mattress and under sheets. They’re an ideal way to spruce up an old mattress without spending a lot of money.

Mattress toppers come in a variety of different materials. Most aim to increase comfort, but some also bring extra warmth. Feather and down will do both, for example. Down and to a lesser degree feather are excellent insulating materials, and are also soft and comfortable, but ensure that the filling is partitioned into reasonably small pockets, otherwise it will migrate to the corners and the topper will be much less effective.

Synthetic fibre filled toppers will be less warm, just like a synthetic filled duvet will be less warm than a high quality down one, but the filling is usually in the form of a sheet, so it won’t bunch up if it’s properly sewn in place. Down is also very breathable, so it won’t feel sweaty even on warmer nights.

Breathability is a concern with solid foam mattress toppers, including memory foam, although the later can be extremely comfortable. Memory foam will mould to the contours of a body lying on it- excellent for those with back problems- but air won’t flow through it. That means it will feel sweaty when it’s hot, but they also feel warm on cold nights once they’ve absorbed body heat.

The range is huge and there is a mattress topper suitable for every sleeper. Before buying, measure the existing bed to make sure of a good fit, even if you know the size. Old mattress models especially might not conform exactly to modern standard sizes.