Abstract: A marked improvement in the body supportive and cushioning functions of a mattress is provided by superimposing a torsionally resistant, marginally restrained, resilient buffer surface of defined thickness and finite compressibility on the mattress. The buffer surface comprises at least one layer of repeatedly impacted foam having density and thickness within predetermined ranges, quilted together with a ticking and a porous backing, and including fitted borders with tensioning means. This buffer surface has a superficial softness but underlying resilience that give a luxurious feeling. The quilting creates localized compression zones, and the impacted characteristic of the foam after quilting provides a resilient structure that has physical integrity and unity. Even if the mattress is stiff or sagging, or has a worn or button tufted surface, the use of the buffer surface improves both comfort and body support characteristics.