When your mattress starts to feel less comfortable, it’s not always obvious whether the problem can be fixed with a mattress topper or a brand-new mattress. If you just need a little more comfort, a mattress topper can give you an extra layer of softness and support. Not to mention, improving your sleep quality at a fraction of the cost of a new mattress. But there comes a point where no topper can fully compensate for a mattress that’s worn out or no longer supportive. Deciding which to purchase comes down to knowing what’s affecting your sleep and whether a simple upgrade is enough, or if it’s time to replace the whole thing. It’s no easy task, so I spoke to an expert to find out when a topper will do the job, and when it’s time to invest in a new mattress altogether. Read more: Best mattresses, reviewed by experts for better sleep What is a mattress topper? “A mattress topper is essentially an extra layer of comfort on your mattress,” Hannah Shore , head of sleep science at MattressOnline explains.…