If you're deciding whether to add a down or latex mattress topper to a bed in need of a makeover, there are some things you'll need to consider. For instance, one question to ask is which is better at keeping hot sleepers cool at night: a down vs latex mattress topper?
There are plenty of great beds in this year's best mattress guide for all types of sleepers, but sometimes one of the best mattress toppers is all you need to boost your sleep. However, you need to make sure that the mattress topper - be it down or latex - will keep you cool, comfortable, and supported.
While both down and latex mattress toppers come with their benefits, they have their drawbacks, too. This guide will compare the key differences between a down mattress topper vs a latex mattress topper, so you can decide which to buy in the Labor Day mattress sales.
Down vs latex mattress toppers: overview
While genuine down toppers feature bird feathers, most down toppers or down alternative toppers today are made from synthetic materials (such as polyester fibers or microfiber fill) that mimic fluffy, fine feathers. For this guide, we're focusing on down alternative toppers only and will refer to them as down toppers. This is for two reasons: 1) real down toppers can trigger allergies; and 2) real down toppers may not be ethical or animal-friendly if not sourced responsibly.
Latex mattress toppers are mattress toppers made from natural latex (either Dunlop vs Talalay latex), which provides a dense, spongy layer of padding to your mattress.
Down vs latex mattress toppers: price
On the whole, a down topper is much cheaper than a latex mattress topper. You can find many down alternative toppers for a low price from retailers such as Target, Home Depot, and Amazon. In fact, the average price of a queen-size down alternative topper is around $59.
In stark contrast, the average price of a queen-size latex mattress topper is $575, around what you'd pay for queen size cheap mattress. This high price is due to latex's durability and sustainable manufacturing process.
Down vs latex mattress toppers: design and materials
Down alternative toppers are filled with soft, fluffy synthetic material such as microfiber and polyester to mimic the fineness of feathers. They often have a breathable cotton cover with anchor straps to keep the topper in place. They are soft and plush, but not very durable. In fact, the average lifespan of a down alternative topper is just one to two years.
Latex toppers, on the other hand, are extremely durable thanks to latex's high quality and longevity. These sustainable toppers can last up to 10 years, which matches the average lifespan of a full-fledged mattress.
But the main draw of latex is, of course, its eco-luxury feel. Latex is a natural, organic material and is perfect for those who want to add some green credentials to their sleep set-up. Latex is also hypoallergenic, non-toxic, antimicrobial, and naturally resistant to dust mites, mold, and mildew.
In terms of design, latex mattress toppers can vary. Some come with plenty of layers, including natural wool fire retardants and organic cotton covers with anchor straps, while less expensive latex toppers offer a one-layer slab of latex with no cover.
Down vs latex mattress toppers: support and comfort
While some feel that down alternative toppers offer a soft, plush feel, others feel that they are too thin (down alternative toppers are usually around 1" to 2" thick) to make a real difference to their bed. In fact, many of our topper-testing team at Tom's Guide believe that sleeping on a microfiber mattress topper was a let-down and that down alternative toppers are more like mattress pads than mattress toppers.
Latex mattress toppers, on the other hand, offer a dense, supportive surface with a spongy, responsive feel. They are perfect for those who want a surface that can provide excellent back support and bouncy comfort. However, those who want maximum pressure relief should probably take a look at our guide to the best memory foam mattress toppers.
Down vs latex mattress toppers: temperature control
Hot sleepers will need a mattress topper that can keep them cool and comfortable at night. Luckily both down and latex toppers have a breathable design that will keep sleepers feeling refreshed. Down alternative toppers have a construction of cotton and microfiber which encourages airflow through its layers.
Latex toppers also feature breathable materials, such as organic, moisture-wicking cotton covers and breathable wool layers. Latex itself is also cooling thanks to its porous texture that encourage air circulation.
Buy a down mattress topper if...
✅ You're on a tighter budget: Latex mattress toppers are pricey, so go for a down alternative topper if you're looking for a quick stopgap while saving for a new mattress.
✅ You want to add breathability without adjusting its firmness: Down alternatives don't really adjust the firmness of a mattress, so they're great if you like the feel of your bed but want to add some breathability.
✅ You want to add some softness to a guest bed: A soft, plush down topper can add a nice, luxurious touch to a guest bed.
Buy a latex mattress topper if...
✅ You want a clean, breathable sleep: Latex is hypoallergenic, non-toxic, and antimicrobial, and sustainable, plus its porous surface means it's great at keeping hot sleepers cool.
✅ You want a mattress topper that lasts: Latex mattress toppers can last up to 15 years if taken care of properly, making them a great sleep investment.
✅ You want to add support and comfort: Latex has a dense, supportive feel and can add a responsive, comfortable touch.
The 3 best down and latex mattress topper deals
