A feather mattress topper is one of the easiest ways to make your bed feel softer and cosier overnight, without buying a whole new mattress. It sits on top of your mattress and adds a plump, cushioned layer you sink into. Here's how to tell if you need one and how to choose the right one.
What is a feather mattress topper?
A feather topper is a thick, quilted layer filled with feather, down or a mix of the two. It goes on top of your mattress, under your fitted sheet. Unlike a thin mattress protector, a topper is all about comfort. It adds softness, a bit of warmth and that sink-in feeling you might know from a hotel bed.
Many feather toppers are box-stitched, which means the filling is held in separate pockets. This stops it all sliding to one end and keeps the softness even across the bed.
Signs a topper could help
- Your mattress is supportive but feels a bit too firm for you.
- You'd like a cosier, softer feel on top without changing the support underneath.
- You've got a guest bed or spare mattress that could do with a comfort boost.
- You want your bed to feel warmer in winter.
A topper adds comfort, but it can't fix a mattress that's sagging or has lost its support. If your mattress has dips or broken springs, it's probably time for a new one. Our quick guide to choosing a mattress can help with that.
Feather, down or a combination?
The filling makes the biggest difference to how a topper feels.
Feather and down blends
Blends like our duck feather and down topper (85/15 blend) are mostly feather with some down mixed in. Feather gives a fuller, more supportive feel, and the down adds softness. It's a great value way to make your bed comfier.
Goose feather and down
A goose feather and down topper (85/15 blend) follows the same idea, using goose feather and down for a slightly softer, springier feel.
Combination toppers
A combination topper brings together pure down and a feather and down blend in one topper. The idea is to give you the plump support of feather along with the cloud-like softness of down. There's also an extra deep version if you'd like even more of that sink-in feel.
Standard fill or high fill?
Our feather toppers come in standard fill and high fill. Here's the simple difference.
| Standard fill | High fill | |
|---|---|---|
| Feel | Soft, gentle comfort layer | Deeper, plumper and more cushioned |
| Good for | Taking the edge off a firm mattress | A really soft, sink-in bed |
| Bed height | Adds a little height | Adds more height, so check your sheets fit |
If you're adding a high fill topper, you may need deep fitted sheets to go over both the mattress and the topper.
Feather or memory foam topper?
Both add comfort, but they feel very different. A feather topper is soft, airy and plump, and you sink into it a little. A memory foam topper moulds slowly to your body and gives a more contoured, hugging feel. Feather tends to sleep a bit cooler and feels more traditional. Memory foam doesn't need shaking and keeps its shape on its own.
If you like the sound of foam, we also sell memory foam toppers in different depths. It really comes down to which feel you prefer.
Choosing the right size
Pick the same size as your mattress. Most of our feather toppers come in single, small double, double, king, super king and emperor, so there's one for most beds. A topper that's too small will leave a ridge at the edges, and one that's too big will bunch up.
Looking after your topper
- Shake and plump it every so often to spread the filling and keep it lofty.
- Air it out on a dry day now and then to keep it fresh.
- Pop a mattress protector over the top to keep it clean.
- Follow the care label before washing, as large toppers may need a big machine or professional cleaning.
Feather topper FAQs
Will feathers poke through the topper?
Good feather toppers use a tightly woven cover to keep the filling in. Now and then a small feather might find its way out, which is normal with natural fillings. A mattress protector on top helps.
Do feather toppers make a bed warmer?
A little, yes. Feather and down hold in warmth, so a topper can make your bed feel cosier. Pair it with a lower tog duvet in summer if you tend to run warm.
Can a topper make a firm mattress softer?
Yes, that's one of the best reasons to buy one. A topper adds a soft comfort layer while your mattress keeps giving support underneath.
How often should I plump my topper?
A quick shake every week or two is plenty for most people. If you notice flat spots, give it a plump and turn it around.
Ready to give your bed a comfy upgrade? Browse our full range of mattress toppers, with free delivery to England, Wales and most of Scotland.
Share:
What is fill power? A simple guide to down bedding
Feather vs down: what the blend on the label means