what is a pillow top mattress?
the sleep summary
Pillow top mattresses are a type of mattress that features an extra layer of cushioning on the surface to improve softness while maintaining proper support. They're ideal for side sleepers seeking additional cushioning, those who prefer a softer sleep surface, anyone looking for a more luxurious feel, or couples wanting enhanced comfort without sacrificing support.
When shopping for a new mattress, you’re met with a whole host of unfamiliar terms and features which can make the decision all the more confusing. One of these terms is ‘pillow top’ which refers to an innovative comfort layer that’s sewn onto the top of the mattress, enhancing its comfort and support.
But, what exactly can you expect from a pillow top mattress? And how do you care for it? Let’s delve into everything you need to know about pillow top mattresses to understand if they’re the right fit for your needs.
so, what are they?
To put it simply, pillow top mattresses are a type of mattress that features an extra layer of cushioning on the surface to improve softness while maintaining proper support. This layer sits above the main support system within a mattress and can be ideal for pressure relief purposes.
how is a pillow top mattress constructed?
It’s constructed with an extra layer of cushioning sewn onto the top of the mattress, creating a raised surface that resembles a pillow. Below this is the mattress’ main support system, whether that be springs, foam or a hybrid.
how do pillow top mattresses differ from other mattresses?
At Silentnight, there’s no such thing as a standard mattress. All of our mattresses offer a unique configuration designed for specific sleep types and needs, whether that be pressure relief or bounce back. When it comes to a pillow top mattress, they have several specifications that stand them out:
Extra comfort from a soft, plump layer sewn onto the surface of a mattress
Creates a plush, cushioned sleep surface
Doesn’t compromise on the support element, simply enhances mattress benefits
Can contain materials such as foam, fibre fillings or unique comfort layers that assist with pressure relief
what are the advantages of sleeping on a pillow top mattress?
Now that we know what makes pillow top mattresses extra comforting, it’s important to understand if this type of mattress is suitable for your needs. We’ve outlined below how the pillow top element can benefit you.
enhanced comfort
The extra pillow top layer on top of an already supportive and comfortable mattress only creates a softer, sink-in feeling with a surface that gently cushions the body, helping you to drift off easier.
pressure relief
Suffer from back ache? The pillow top layer is also ideal for distributing your body weight evenly across the mattress, therefore relieving pressure on key points like the shoulders, hips and lower back. This benefit is also ideal if you’re a side sleeper because when sleeping on your side, your body weight relies on smaller areas like your shoulders and hips. But with a pillow top, your body weight is properly distributed so heavier areas won’t sink too deep, thus relieving pressure while keeping your spine properly aligned. The Miracoil Pillow Top Mattress from Silentnight is a great example of a mattress that relieves pressure while also ensuring maximum comfort. It combines both supple foam with targeted support from singular Miracoil springs. Plus, with a border designed to promote airflow, you’ll be in for a fresh night’s sleep every night with this cooling pillow top mattress.
improved sleep experience
A pillow top is luxury, and with luxury comes better sleep. Achieving the perfect balance of softness and support, a pillow top mattress prevents you from sleeping directly on the core of the mattress, creating an extra layer of comfort between you and the support system.
would you suit a pillow top mattress?
There are several indicators to whether a pillow top mattress would be suitable for your preferences and needs. Here’s an insight:
Side sleepers seeking additional cushioning
Those who prefer a softer sleep surface
Anyone looking for a more luxurious feel
Couples wanting enhanced comfort without sacrificing support
is a pillow top mattress suitable for individuals with back pain?
A pillow top mattress is sometimes suitable for someone with back pain, as long as you feel supported. The extra cushioning can help with relieving pressure but the mattress core is what supports the spine. You shouldn’t opt for a too soft mattress when suffering from back pain, but one that’s medium firm. For more guidance, check out our guide on mattresses for back pain.
are pillow top mattresses a good choice for heavy individuals?
Yes, if they have a supportive core and durability. While you’re given extra comfort from the plush surface, the underlying mattress should offer proper support and spinal alignment, to prevent sinkage. Our Miracoil Pillow Top mattress is a great example which offers both a cushioned top and a Miracoil centre for targeted support.
what materials are commonly used in the comfort layers of mattresses?
A variety of materials can be used to create a pillow top configuration, depending on the mattress design and firmness rating. These include comfort foams, fibre fillings, gel-infused materials, and a combination of materials. Our Miracoil Pillow Top Mattress, for instance, is a hand-tufted layer that creates a firmer, more supportive surface.
how do you clean and maintain a pillow top mattress?
It’s important you take care of your pillow top mattress as you would any mattress type because this’ll maintain comfort and support levels, while also prolonging the lifespan of the mattress. How? We’ve outlined a few of our top tips below but always check the manufacturer’s instructions for guidance on your specific model.
use a mattress protector
Mattress protectors are essential for guarding your mattress from spills, stains, dust, allergens, and everyday wear. We still recommend you regularly wash your protector in case of any dust or allergen build-up over time.
regularly rotate your mattress
We don’t recommend flipping a pillow top mattress as its benefits are found on one side but rotating it every 3-6 months 180 degrees can even out wear and prevent sagging on one side.
do pillow top mattresses sag or develop body impressions over time?
Yes, like any mattress, pillow top mattresses can develop body impressions over the course of time, but how quickly this happens depends on their density and quality. This happens because comfort layers natural settle as they’re used more, but this doesn’t necessarily mean that they’re no longer supportive or are sagging.
regularly clean it
It’s important you keep on top of cleaning your pillow top mattress as dirt, grime, allergen and dust build-up, and even dust mites can impact your quality of sleep, as well as irritate your skin or cause an allergy flare-up. You should:
Regularly vacuum the mattress surface
Air the mattress, especially when changing the bedding
Wash your bedding according to its instructions
Keep on top of any stains/spillages immediately
keep your mattress supported
Not only is the mattress type important, but the base is also vital for support and the performance of your mattress. You should always ensure you’re using the correct bed frame or base for your mattress so that you can enjoy long-term comfort.
Pillow top mattresses are ideal if you enjoy a luxurious supple surface that aids pressure relief and spinal alignment, especially when combined with the support system below. If you found this article helpful, check out our thoughts on how to choose the perfect mattress for you.
pillow top mattress faqs
are pillow top mattresses good for side sleepers?
Yes, pillow top mattresses are ideal for side sleepers as they have extra cushioning to aid weight distribution, and therefore, relieve pressure on the shoulders and hips.
do pillow top mattresses feel softer?
Generally, yes. The additional layer on the surface uses a specific material configuration for plumpness, therefore creating more of a sink-in feeling compared to other mattresses.
can you flip a pillow top mattress?
No, you shouldn’t flip a pillow top mattress as only one side has a pillow top, but you should rotate it to even out the wear.
how long does a pillow top mattress last?
This depends on use, materials and maintenance, but usually you can expect between 7-10 years out of your mattress.
what are the different types of mattress tops available?
You’ll likely come across pillow, box, euro (similar to pillow top), quilted, tight, and cushion tops. All with their own advantages.
what is a mattress topper and how is it different from a pillow top?
A mattress topper is a removable layer of cushioning and support which is attached to the mattress to mostly improve comfort levels. They’re usually made out of memory foam, latex, fibres or cooling gels, and can be used as and when needed.
A pillow top, on the other hand, is-built-in to the mattress, making it a permanent feature. It’s part of the construction of the mattress, but has a similar purpose of improving the comfort, breathability of a mattress like a topper does.
what are the disadvantages or drawbacks of pillow top mattresses?
There are several reasons why a pillow top mattress might not be suitable for you. These include being too soft, the pillow top feature cannot be removed, they’re often heavier, and don’t suit every type of sleeper.
are pillow top mattresses hotter to sleep on than other mattress types?
Due to the extra cushioning and materials used on the surface, pillow top mattresses can feel warmer than other comfort layers. This construction can limit airflow, making you feel warmer during the night.
