What is Pillow Top Mattress: A Friendly Guide

What is Pillow Top Mattress: A Friendly Guide
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Published ilm_admin ⋅ Review Editor
October 23, 2023

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A pillow top mattress comforts those seeking a plush and cosy sleep surface. Combining two sections, this mattress type features a supportive base topped with an extra layer of padding. This versatile pillow top layer can be paired with various support sections, such as pocket sprung or open coil mattresses. It separates them from non-pillow top mattresses that only possess the main section.

Delivering enhanced cushioning, the pillow top improves sleep quality by providing a softer, more comfortable surface to rest on. If you’ve been looking to pamper yourself with a luxurious sleeping experience, a pillow-top mattress may be the right choice.

Key Takeaways

What Materials Are Used for Pillow Tops?

Pillow-top mattresses utilise various materials to enhance comfort and support for the sleeper. Some commonly used materials in pillow tops include memory foam, latex, wool, and cotton. These materials can be combined to create an indulgent, cushioned layer on top of the primary mattress.

A splendid example of a pillow top mattress showcases a base layer comprising individual, glue-free Cortec™ springs, Micro Springs, and sustainable ecotex. The absence of glue, foam, and FR chemical treatments makes it an environmentally responsible choice. The comfortable pillow top section uses natural elements such as British wool, Egyptian cotton, silk, cashmere, and a blend of Yorkshire wool.

This luxurious combination not only presents an opulent feel for the sleeper but also embraces eco-friendliness, as the materials are fully recyclable. Sleeping on a pillow top mattress featuring such a diverse range of materials offers a unique, sumptuous experience that benefits both the individual and the planet.

How Firm is a Pillow Top Mattress?

Pillow-top mattresses tend to be softer due to their cushioning top layer. These mattresses come in various firmness levels, such as soft, medium, medium-firm, and firm. The ideal firmness level for a pillow top mattress depends on the individual’s body size and weight.

For instance, people with larger builds and higher weights may require a firmer mattress to avoid sinking too deeply into the pillow top layer and reaching the stiffer core layer. Conversely, lighter individuals might find a softer mattress more comfortable, as a firmer one could feel too hard and uncomfortable.

Those with heavier body types might find a pillow top mattress slightly too soft for optimal sleep comfort. Therefore, testing out a mattress in-store before making a purchase decision is essential. This ensures that the mattress provides the right balance of support and comfort, alleviating pressure points and accommodating zoned support as needed for a restful night’s sleep.

How Deep Are Pillow Top Mattresses?

Pillow-top mattresses generally feature more depth than other mattresses due to the additional layer resting on top. These mattresses vary in depth, ranging from a modest 7 inches to a substantial 22 inches. The bulk of a mattress’s depth comprises its base or core layer, which includes springs and support systems, while around 2 inches can be attributed to the pillow top itself. This extra cushioning provides added comfort and promotes air circulation, making it a popular choice for many sleepers.

What are the benefits of a pillow top mattress?

A pillow top mattress brings additional comfort due to its soft, plush layer. This luxurious feeling creates a supportive and comfortable sleeping experience. The mattress effectively distributes body weight to enhance sleep quality and provide pressure relief for aches and pains, particularly in the neck and back areas. Ideal for those who dislike the sensation of sinking into memory foam, a pillow top mattress has a responsive and bouncy nature due to its coiled support.

This feature also promotes good airflow and temperature regulation, minimising heat retention and creating a cooler, breathable surface for individuals who sleep hot. A pillow top mattress caters to various sleeping positions and provides exceptional comfort. It is popular for side, stomach, and back sleepers seeking relief from discomfort and improved sleep quality.

Assessing Affordable Pillow Top Mattresses

A pillow top mattress can bring luxurious comfort and support to the bedroom, thanks to various materials and thickness options. Renowned brands offer different affordable options online and in showrooms, meeting the needs of a diverse clientele.

However, if the customer is exceptionally tall, heavy or searching for a smaller mattress, a pillow top mattress might not be the best choice. To make a well-informed decision, visiting a local retailer and experiencing the mattress in person is advisable. Trying out mattresses in-store allows customers to gauge their preferences and find the most suitable option.

Many brands also offer lifetime warranties, providing peace of mind when considering a long-term investment. With various prices, offers, and stocks, one can find the perfect pillow top mattress that fits their needs and budget. Remember, it is essential to do thorough research and consult a mattress guide before making a purchase decision.

Comparing Pillow Top and Memory Foam Mattresses

Pillow-top mattresses have an added layer of cushioning on top, providing extra comfort. On the other hand, memory foam mattresses are made from a responsive material that contours to the body, relieving pressure points.

Presence of Springs in Pillow Top Mattresses

Yes, pillow top mattresses can contain springs within their main structure. The pillow top layer adds extra cushioning on top of the spring system, enhancing comfort.

Pillow Top vs Euro Top vs Tight Top: The Best Choice

  • Pillow Top: Features an extra layer of cushioning sewn or glued on top of the mattress to provide additional comfort.
  • Euro Top: Similar to a pillow top, the extra cushioning layer is integrated with the mattress, giving a more uniform appearance.
  • Tight Top: A traditional mattress without added cushioning layers, offering a firmer and more supportive feel.

The best choice depends on individual preferences, with pillow top and Euro top mattresses providing extra comfort, while a tight top mattress may work well for those seeking a firmer feel.

Common Problems with Pillow Top Mattresses

Some potential issues with pillow top mattresses may include:

  • Sagging over time, causing uneven support.
  • An initial off-gassing odour from some types of materials used.
  • Difficulty in finding suitable sheets and bedding to fit the additional thickness.
  • Trapping of heat, especially if using memory foam in the pillow top layer.

Firmness Level of Pillow Top Mattresses

Pillow-top mattresses can range from soft to firm, depending on the materials used in the pillow top layer and the main mattress structure. The additional cushioning layer generally adds softness to the overall mattress feel.

Euro Top Mattress vs Hybrid Mattress Comparison

A Euro top mattress features an integrated cushioning layer, offering additional comfort. A hybrid mattress, however, combines various materials such as memory foam, latex, or gel with an innerspring system, aiming to provide a balance of comfort and support. The choice between these two depends on personal preferences and specific requirements.

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