How to Choose the Right Mattress Topper for Your Sleeping Position

Quick Answer

Side sleepers need a soft-to-medium topper that cushions pressure points, while back sleepers benefit from medium firmness for spinal support. Stomach sleepers should choose a firmer topper to prevent hip sink. Consider your weight and preferred sleep temperature when selecting thickness and materials.

Your sleeping position determines how your spine aligns and where pressure builds up. A mattress topper can fix common issues like sagging, excessive firmness, or poor support—but only if you choose the right one. In this guide, we break down what side, back, and stomach sleepers should look for in a topper, including firmness, thickness, and material.

We'll also highlight two popular options from Nolah: the Nolah Microcoil Mattress Topper and the Nolah Mattress Topper. Both are designed to enhance comfort, but they serve different sleeper profiles.

Why Sleeping Position Matters for Topper Selection

Your spine should maintain a neutral alignment while you sleep. Side sleepers need extra cushioning at the shoulder and hip to prevent pressure points. Back sleepers require support that fills the natural curve of the lower back without excessive sink. Stomach sleepers need a firmer surface to keep the hips from sinking, which can strain the lower back.

A topper can adjust the feel of your mattress, but it cannot completely change its support. If your mattress is too old or sagging, a topper is a temporary fix. For persistent discomfort, consider investing in a new mattress like the Nolah Signature or Nolah Evolution.

• Side sleepers: look for soft-to-medium firmness (2-4 on a 10-point scale) and contouring materials like memory foam or microcoils.
• Back sleepers: choose medium firmness (5-6) to support the lumbar region without excessive sink.
• Stomach sleepers: opt for medium-firm to firm (7-8) to keep the hips elevated and prevent back strain.

Firmness and Thickness: What to Look For

Firmness is subjective, but general guidelines apply. Side sleepers often prefer a plush topper that relieves pressure on the shoulder and hip. Back sleepers need a balance of cushioning and support. Stomach sleepers should avoid soft toppers that cause the hips to sink.

Thickness matters too. A 2-inch topper is ideal for slightly adjusting the feel of a mattress. Thicker toppers (3 inches or more) can provide more pressure relief but may make the bed too soft for stomach sleepers. The Nolah Mattress Topper is 2 inches thick, making it a versatile choice for most sleepers.

• If you're a side sleeper with a firm mattress, a 3-inch plush topper can provide significant pressure relief.
• Back sleepers should stick to 2-3 inches, ensuring the topper doesn't compromise spinal alignment.
• Stomach sleepers should choose a 2-inch firm topper to maintain a flat sleeping surface.

Material Matters: Memory Foam, Latex, and Microcoils

Memory foam toppers contour closely to the body, offering excellent pressure relief for side sleepers. However, traditional memory foam can trap heat. Latex is more responsive and cooler but often firmer. Microcoil toppers combine foam and coils for a balance of contouring and support.

The Nolah Microcoil Mattress Topper uses individually-wrapped microcoils that respond to your movements, providing supportive resistance while hugging your curves. Its GlacioTex cover helps keep you cool, making it a great option for side sleepers who run warm.

• Memory foam: best for pressure relief, but may sleep hot unless infused with cooling gel.
• Latex: durable and breathable, but often more expensive and firmer.
• Microcoils: offer a hybrid feel with good airflow and support.

Weight and Temperature Considerations

Your body weight affects how a topper feels. Heavier individuals may need a firmer topper to avoid sinking too deeply, while lighter sleepers might find firm toppers uncomfortable. Side sleepers of all weights benefit from contouring, but heavier side sleepers might prefer a thicker topper for adequate pressure relief.

Temperature regulation is crucial for many sleepers. The Nolah Microcoil Topper's GlacioTex cover is designed to keep you cool, while the Nolah Mattress Topper features an organic cotton cover that is breathable. If you sleep hot, look for toppers with cooling technologies like gel infusions or breathable covers.

• Side sleepers over 200 lbs: choose a thicker topper (3 inches) with high-density foam for adequate support.
• Back sleepers who sleep hot: consider a microcoil topper for better airflow.
• Stomach sleepers: avoid thick, plush toppers that may cause hip sink.

Decision Rules for Choosing a Topper

• If you're a side sleeper: Choose a topper with soft-to-medium firmness and contouring materials like memory foam or microcoils. Look for at least 2 inches of thickness. The Nolah Microcoil Topper offers a good balance of cushioning and support.
• If you're a back sleeper: Opt for a medium-firm topper that supports the lower back without excessive sink. A 2-inch high-density foam topper works well. The Nolah Mattress Topper provides even support and motion isolation.
• If you're a stomach sleeper: Select a firmer topper (medium-firm to firm) and keep thickness around 2 inches to avoid hip sink. Consider a firm latex or high-density foam topper; avoid plush memory foam.

Nolah Toppers at a Glance

• Nolah Microcoil Mattress Topper: Combines cushioning foam with flexible, individually-wrapped microcoils that respond to your movements, hugging your curves and providing supportive resistance. Features a GlacioTex cover to keep you cool. Ideal for side sleepers who need pressure relief but want more support and airflow than traditional memory foam.
• Nolah Mattress Topper: Crafted with 4-pound AirFoam HD, offering advanced pressure point relief and unmatched motion isolation. Includes an additional support foam layer and a plush organic cotton cover. A great all-around choice for back sleepers who want a balanced feel and couples who need motion isolation.

Which Topper Fits You?

Best for

• Side sleepers who need pressure relief and cooling: Nolah Microcoil Mattress Topper
• Back sleepers who want balanced support and motion isolation: Nolah Mattress Topper

Not for

• Stomach sleepers who need a firm surface—these toppers may be too plush.
• Those who prefer a very firm sleeping surface—consider a firmer topper or a new mattress like the Nolah Signature.

Choosing the right mattress topper for your sleeping position can transform your sleep quality. Side sleepers will appreciate the pressure relief of the Nolah Microcoil Mattress Topper, while back sleepers may prefer the balanced support of the Nolah Mattress Topper. Explore these options to find your perfect match.