Hi.  Just found this forum & could use some help.       I recently replaced my OLD mattress with a Simmons world class spirit plush from mattress giant.  At the show room it felt great, but at home it feels to firm.  I'm a side sleeper.  Can't sleep on this thing on my side, very uncomfortable.  On my back it feels fine.   iv'e had it for 30 days as of today.  The store has a 1 time exchange policy.   The manager suggested a Kingsdown.   Of course it will cost me more money.  Around $500  with delivery & stain protection.   Is it smarter to just buy a latex topper ?  The kingsdown has a 20 year warranty.   Toppers have a 1 year or less ?    Thanks for your input..

Hi JoeA,

Honestly, I would try a 2-3" topper first. You can purchase one at Overstock or Amazon pretty reasonably priced. I prefer latex to memory foam, and I like soft better than medium. Your problem is that today is D-day for you. If you exchange it for a softer mattress, you may not like the lack of support for your back. Unfortunately, the store will not let you exchange that one. To be honest, $500 seems like a lot of money to take that chance with. With a topper, you can replace it (good latex should last more than a year) when you feel the need for a soter of firmer mattress. Just an opinion, but since today is the day you must decide, you may be talked into a decision without the time to think it over. Also, see if you can get any time extension on the comfort exchange. Best of luck!

Hi sillymom.   Thanks for your input.  Actually, I still have another 15 days to do the exchange. Iv'e never owned a topper. So you think I'll needto replace the topper annually ?    The cheapest topper Iv'e seen is about $150 @ walmart.   If I need a new topper annually, that sure adds up.   On the other hand,  you're right about getting stuck with a softer mattress.   I have a plush ,  simmons world class, not pillow top.   Do you think this will get softer if i hang on to it ?   Thanks again.

Firm mattress w/ any array of toppers gives you the most options.  You can't firm up a too soft mattress. That being said, I would keep what you have.

Latex topper will not need to be replaced annually.  I think I've heard 5+ years for latex toppers is average, mattresses can be 15+ years.  www.foambymail.com sells latex toppers cheap.

I would buy a latex topper.

Thanks to everyone for the help.  Sounds like  a talalay latex topper is the way to go.  

FoamByMail is a good place to buy a latex topper. I bought a 2" thick Cal King for $185 with free shipping. That's just a bare piece of latex with no cover. eMattress.com and SleepWarehouse are two other sources for reasonably priced latex toppers. I recommend the "soft" latex.