Best Pillow-Top Mattress of 2024
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If you want a plush, luxurious feel from the moment you lie down on a mattress, a pillow-top model may be a good fit. These beds have a layer of cushioning material sewn to the top, creating a soft, contouring surface to cradle your body. Pillow-top designs are typically found on hybrid and innerspring mattresses.
A traditional pillow-top model gives the appearance of an additional layer sitting on top of the bed. A Euro-top model is a type of pillow-top in which the additional layer lines up flush with the edge of the layers beneath. For this mattress guide, we evaluated both types of models. If you’re looking for even more mattress options, our guide to the best mattresses of 2024 covers all of our top picks and why we’ve chosen them.
The Best Pillow-Top Mattresses
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Best Mattress Overall – WinkBed
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Best Luxury Mattress – Saatva Classic
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Most Comfortable Mattress – Nolah Evolution 15
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Best Temperature Regulating Mattress – Birch Luxe
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Best Mattress for Back Pain – Cloverlane 15″ Hybrid
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Best Mattress for Heavy Sleepers – Saatva HD
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Best Mattress Overall
WinkBed
8.9 /10
Test Lab Score
Get $300 off all mattresses at Winkbeds
Get $300 off all mattresses at Winkbeds
In the solidly built WinkBed, the comfortable pillow-top is the icing on the cake. It enhances the feel and support of this mattress, which delivers solid across-the-board performance and is offered in four different firmness options.
Price
$1,499
Mattress Type
Innerspring
Firmness Options
Medium Soft (4), Medium Firm (6), Firm (7), Firm (8)
Trial Period
120 nights (30 night requirement)
Full Details
Who It’s Best For
The WinkBed is best for people looking for a dependable hybrid mattress, and with four firmness models to choose from, sleepers of any weight and position can find a model that meets their needs.
Feel
The feel of the WinkBed is dependent on the firmness model, but all of them have an inviting pillow-top and zoned support for pressure relief where you need it most.
What It’s Made Of
All of the WinkBeds feature a Tencel cover to dissipate heat, cooling gel-infused polyfoam, and a pocketed coil base layer. Depending on the model, additional comfort layers are made of either polyfoam or natural latex.
What We Don’t Like
Some may find the WinkBed too bouncy, which can disturb light sleepers. It can take up to 72 hours after unboxing for the “new mattress smell” to fade away.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
We performed a meta-analysis on 8573 validated customer reviews of the Winkbed. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:- Quality of Materials: The mattress is frequently described as well-made, with durable materials that contribute to a good night’s sleep.
- Cooling Features: Some reviewers mention that the mattress does a good job of regulating temperature, providing a cooler sleep experience.
- Edge Support: While generally satisfied with the support, a few reviewers note that edge support could be better.
- Comfort and Support: Many reviewers praise the mattress for its comfort and support, often mentioning relief from back pain and improved sleep quality.
- Firmness Options: Customers appreciate the variety of firmness options available, finding the right balance for their personal preferences.
- Value for Money: Many users feel the mattress is worth the investment, offering good value for the quality and comfort provided.
- Made in the USA: Buyers are pleased that the mattresses are made in the USA, supporting domestic manufacturing.
Best Value Mattress
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid – Medium
8.4 /10
Test Lab Score
25% off sitewide with code: SUMMER25
25% off sitewide with code: SUMMER25
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid is our choice for the best value pillow-top mattress. While the pillow-top doesn’t come standard, as an optional add-on it elevates the already high-quality performance of this hybrid with even better cushioning and temperature regulation.
Price
$999
Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium Firm (6)
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night requirement)
Full Details
Who It’s Best For
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid is our choice for the best value pillow-top mattress. While the pillow-top doesn’t come standard, as an optional add-on it elevates the already high-quality performance of this hybrid with even better cushioning and temperature regulation.
Feel
With the cloud pillow-top, the Signature Hybrid is ideal for side sleepers who can benefit from the extra cradling it provides around the shoulders and hips. That said, the choice of firmness options makes this mattress suitable to sleepers of any weight or position.
What It’s Made Of
The interior layers of the Signature Hybrid include two adaptive polyfoam layers and a base of thick pocketed coils that generate bounce and sturdiness. The 2-inch cloud pillow-top features additional foam layers and a temperature-regulating fabric.
What We Don’t Like
While still a great value, the pillow-top model costs more than the standard Signature Hybrid. If you decide to make a return during the trial period, there’s a $99 return shipping fee.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
We performed a meta-analysis on 10000 validated customer reviews of the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:- Comfort and support: Many reviewers mention that the mattress is very comfortable and provides good support for various sleeping positions.
- Improvement in sleep quality: Several users report a significant improvement in sleep quality, including better rest and reduced pain.
- Firmness options: People appreciate the availability of different firmness levels, and some discuss their experiences with medium, firm, or pillow-top options.
- RV suitability: A number of reviews specifically mention using the mattress in RVs, noting it as a substantial upgrade from typical RV mattresses.
- Initial odor/smell: Some reviewers note a mild odor upon unpacking, but it typically dissipates quickly.
- Edge support: The mattress is often noted for having good edge support, which is particularly valued by those who sit on the edge of the bed.
- Price and value: Many reviewers feel the mattress is well-priced for the quality and comfort it provides.
- Durability concerns: A few reviewers express concerns about how the mattress will hold up over time, although these comments are not widespread.
Best Luxury Mattress
Saatva Classic
9.4 /10
Test Lab Score
15% off orders of $1,000 or more
15% off orders of $1,000 or more
The Saatva Classic’s carefully selected materials and sleek Euro-top make it our choice for the best luxury mattress. Its innovative coil-on-coil design keeps you comfortably supported, and this mattress comes with the luxury perk of free White Glove delivery and installation.
Price
$1,795
Mattress Type
Innerspring
Firmness Options
Soft (3), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)
Trial Period
365 Nights ($99 Return Fee)
Full Details
Who It’s Best For
The Saatva Classic is a top pick for people who want a responsive mattress that is offered in distinct firmness levels. Sleepers of any position and body weight can pick a model that can maximize their nightly rest.
Feel
‘Luxe’ is the first word that comes to mind when you lie down on the Saatva Classic. It feels sturdy from edge-to-edge, stays cool, and gently cushions your body to relieve aches and pains.
What It’s Made Of
The coil-on-coil construction includes a thin layer of microcoils that sit on top of taller pocketed coils. This creates responsiveness with less motion transfer. Above the coils are a resilient polyfoam and a comfort-boosting lumbar pad made of memory foam.
What We Don’t Like
You will be responsible for a $99 return shipping charge if you decide to return the mattress during the 365-night sleep trial.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
We performed a meta-analysis on 3308 validated customer reviews of the Saatva Classic. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:- Delivery Service: Positive feedback on the delivery process is common, with customers highlighting the professionalism and efficiency of the delivery teams. The white glove delivery service, including old mattress removal, is frequently praised.
- Comfort and Support: Reviewers frequently cite the comfort and support of the Saatva Classic mattress, noting improvements in sleep quality and reductions in back pain. The availability of different firmness options caters to various preferences and needs.
- Durability: Long-term users report that the mattress maintains its comfort and support over the years, indicating good durability and quality construction.
- Material Quality: Customers appreciate the safe and high-quality materials used in the mattress, such as the absence of harmful chemicals and the use of organic cotton.
- Temperature Regulation: Some reviewers specifically mention sleeping cooler on the Saatva Classic, highlighting its temperature regulation features that contribute to a more comfortable sleep.
- Adjustability and Customization: The ability to customize the mattress for personal needs, like the split king option with different firmness levels, is a significant plus for many customers.
Best Mattress for Side Sleepers
Helix Midnight Luxe
9.3 /10
Test Lab Score
Up to 30% off + 2 free pillows
Up to 30% off + 2 free pillows
Equipped with a foam-filled Euro-top, the Helix Midnight Luxe takes home the top spot for side sleepers. It helps side sleepers settle into a healthy posture thanks to contouring memory foam and responsive pocketed coils.
Price
$1,899
Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium Firm (6)
Trial Period
100 nights (30-night requirement)
Full Details
Who It’s Best For
The Helix Midnight Luxe works best for side sleepers, especially those who weigh up to 230 pounds. It can also be comfortable and supportive to many people under 230 pounds who sleep on their back.
Feel
As you lie on the Midnight Luxe, you feel it gradually soften the impact around the hips and shoulders. But its medium firm (6) feel and robust coils keep you supported and prevent unwanted sagging into the mattress.
What It’s Made Of
Memory foam and adaptive polyfoam layers give notable cushioning to this pillow-top mattress, which has a smooth Tencel cover. Add-on options include ergonomic lumbar support in the top layer and cooling fabric in the cover. The support core is made with tall coils and base polyfoam.
What We Don’t Like
Add-on features like the lumbar pad and GlacioTex cover raise the total cost of the mattress. There is often a “new mattress smell” that hangs around for up to a couple of days after unboxing.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
We performed a meta-analysis on 5876 validated customer reviews of the Helix Midnight Luxe. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:- Comfort and Support: Many reviewers express that the mattress provides exceptional comfort and support, especially noting its ability to alleviate back, hip, and shoulder pain.
- Sleep Quality Improvement: The mattress is frequently described as transformative for those who previously struggled with sleep disturbances.
- Temperature Regulation: Positive remarks are made about the cooling properties of the mattress. Users find the cooling aspect effective, helping to maintain a comfortable sleeping temperature throughout the night.
- Customer Service: Experiences with customer service are predominantly positive, with buyers appreciating the responsive and helpful nature of the support team. Issues are resolved satisfactorily, contributing to a positive overall customer experience.
- Durability Concerns: A few reviewers express concerns about the mattress showing signs of wear or sagging prematurely. These concerns are not widespread but are significant enough to be noted by potential buyers.
- Mixed Reviews on Firmness: While many find the mattress perfectly balanced, there are mixed reviews regarding its firmness. Some users find it softer than expected given its firmness level. While the ‘medium firm’ rating is appropriate by our measurements, the bed does have a ‘cushy’ foam feel that makes for a fairly soft surface feel.
Most Comfortable Mattress
Nolah Evolution 15
8.8 /10
Test Lab Score
35% off sitewide + 2 free pillows with mattress purchase
35% off sitewide + 2 free pillows with mattress purchase
If what you want is comfort, the best pillow-top mattress is the Nolah Evolution 15. Its Euro-style pillow-top is extra thick and lightly embraces your body to help ease you into a peaceful night of sleep.
Price
$1,624
Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium (5), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)
Trial Period
120 nights (30-night requirement), $99 return pickup fee
Full Details
Who It’s Best For
It may sound cliche, but the Nolah Evolution 15 is best for just about anyone thanks to its range of firmness options — medium (5), medium firm (6), and firm (8) — that can meet the needs of people of all sleeping positions and body sizes.
Feel
The Nolah Evolution 15 feels supportive with a touch of bounce and plenty of cushioning, but it doesn’t swallow or totally envelop your body. It also resists heat buildup to enable cooler and more comfortable sleep.
What It’s Made Of
The thick pillow-top includes a layer of adaptive polyfoam that works in concert with three other polyfoam layers to keep your body in a healthy sleep posture. The overall stability is bolstered by the durable pocketed coils that are arranged in zones to enhance ergonomic support.
What We Don’t Like
Most shoppers find that they have to buy new sheets since standard fitted sheets won’t stay in place on this 15-inch-tall mattress. While you have a lengthy sleep trial, returns are assessed a $99 fee.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
We performed a meta-analysis on 897 validated customer reviews of the Nolah Evolution 15. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:- Motion Isolation: Couples frequently mention that the mattress is good at isolating motion, making it less likely for one partner to disturb the other during the night.
- Edge Support: The edge support of the mattress is frequently highlighted, with many finding it adequate for sitting or sleeping near the edge without feeling like they will roll off.
- Softness: Many reviewers discuss the softness of the mattress. Some find it too soft, causing discomfort, especially for heavier individuals, while others appreciate the plushness.
- Comfort and Support: Several users mention that the mattress provides excellent comfort and support, helping alleviate or prevent back and joint pain.
- Heat Retention: A few reviewers note that the mattress retains heat, making it uncomfortable for some, particularly in warmer climates or for those who sleep hot.
- Durability and Quality: Users often comment on the high quality and durability of the mattress, noting that it maintains its shape and comfort over time.
Best Temperature Regulating Mattress
Birch Luxe
8.9 /10
Test Lab Score
25% off sitewide + 2 free pillows with mattress purchase
25% off sitewide + 2 free pillows with mattress purchase
All layers of the Birch Luxe — from the pillow-top to the base — contribute to cooler sleep, making this our pick for the best temperature-regulating mattress. It’s also made with eco-friendly materials that cushion and support your body for dynamic all-around performance.
Price
$2,099
Mattress Type
Latex Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium Firm (6)
Trial Period
100 nights (30-night requirement)
Full Details
Who It’s Best For
The Birch Luxe holds significant appeal for hot sleepers and anyone who wants an eco-conscious mattress. In terms of support, it’s generally best for side and back sleepers under 230 pounds and lighter-weight stomach sleepers.
Feel
The feel of the Birch Luxe is notably bouncy, but it balances that with moderate contouring around the body’s heaviest areas. Even in hot climates, it feels impressively cool.
What It’s Made Of
The breathable cover of organic cotton and wool includes a pillow-top stuffed with organic wool and organic latex. These materials resist heat retention, and the core of pocketed coils allows airflow to keep the mattress ventilated through the night.
What We Don’t Like
The Birch Luxe isn’t ideal for people who sleep lightly and share a bed since its bouncy materials can cause motion transfer across the mattress surface.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
We performed a meta-analysis on 163 validated customer reviews of the Birch Luxe. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:- Organic and Eco-Friendly: The mattress is appreciated for being made from natural materials, which is a significant plus for environmentally conscious consumers and those sensitive to chemicals.
- Heat Regulation: Several users have noted that the mattress does not retain heat, making for a cooler sleeping experience compared to other brands.
- Motion Isolation: Couples have reported that the mattress does a good job of isolating motion, meaning that partners are not disturbed by each other’s movements during the night.
- Heavy and Difficult to Set Up: Some negative feedback includes the mattress being heavy and difficult to set up, which could be a challenge for some buyers.
- Price: The mattress is more expensive than other options, but many users feel that the quality and comfort justify the cost.
- Customer Service: There are mixed reviews on customer service, with some customers experiencing great service, while others faced challenges, particularly concerning delivery and handling issues.
Best Mattress for Back Pain
Cloverlane 15″ Hybrid
8.7 /10
Test Lab Score
$2,199 from Cloverlane (queen)
$2,199 from Cloverlane (queen)
With three firmness options and a Euro-style pillow-top, the Cloverlane Hybrid can provide the right support for your back with a cushioned and responsive feel. Materials focused on ventilation minimize heat retention, and each order comes with free White Glove delivery.
Price
$1,399
Mattress Type
Hybrid
Firmness Options
Medium Soft (4), Medium Firm (6), Firm (7)
Trial Period
365 nights (30-night requirement)
Full Details
Who It’s Best For
The medium firm (6) and firm (7) models are best for back and stomach sleepers, while the medium soft (4) is a good fit for side sleepers under 130 pounds who want additional cushioning around their shoulders and hips.
Feel
The Cloverlane Hybrid feels elegant and regal with its inviting pillow-top immediately accommodating pressure points and the lower back.
What It’s Made Of
The pillow-top has responsive polyfoam with extra lumbar support. Other comfort layers include gel-infused memory foam, polyfoam, and latex, and the base is composed of pocketed coils with dense foam around the perimeter to reinforce the edges of the mattress.
What We Don’t Like
The Plush Soft version can trap heat, and stomach sleepers may find it lacks firmness and support.
Scoring Breakdown
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
Best Mattress for Heavy Sleepers
Saatva HD
9.2 /10
Test Lab Score
15% off orders of $1,000 or more
15% off orders of $1,000 or more
The best pillow-top mattress for sleepers with a higher body weight is the Saatva HD. Its sturdy design with high-end materials, including a tall Euro-style pillow-top, makes it a reliable source of support for people over 230 pounds.
Price
$2,945
Mattress Type
Innerspring
Firmness Options
Firm (7)
Trial Period
365 Nights ($99 Return Fee)
Full Details
Who It’s Best For
The Saatva HD was designed and performs best for sleepers who weigh between 230 and 500 pounds regardless of their sleeping position.
Feel
This mattress feels firm (7) and supportive, especially for those above 230 pounds. Its mix of materials provides notable pressure relief while staying stable and even underneath the body.
What It’s Made Of
Sturdy construction leads to a longer-lasting mattress. A Euro-top filled with fabric and foam is bolstered by polyfoam, natural latex, and memory foam. The coils in the support core are thick and encased in dense foam for better edge support.
What We Don’t Like
People under 230 pounds may find the mattress to be too firm. The Saatva HD is not compatible with all bed frames and foundations.
Scoring & Reviews
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
We performed a meta-analysis on 133 validated customer reviews of the Saatva HD. This is what people who bought the mattress had to say:- Quality of Materials: Users frequently comment on the high-quality materials and construction of the mattress, noting its durability and the luxurious feel of the fabrics used.
- Positive Impact: Several reviewers mention significant improvements in sleep quality and reductions in back and joint pain since switching to this mattress.
- Customer Service: The customer service provided by Saatva receives high marks for being helpful, responsive, and accommodating, enhancing the overall purchasing experience.
- Delivery and Setup: The delivery and setup process is often described as efficient and professional, with many appreciating the white glove delivery service that includes setup and old mattress removal.
- Price and Value: Reviewers feel that the mattress represents good value for money, considering its quality and the level of service provided.
- Heavy and Bulky: Some users find the mattress to be quite heavy and difficult to move or adjust, which can make changing sheets or moving the mattress challenging.
Best Mattress for Couples
Naturepedic EOS Pillow Top
8.6 /10
Test Lab Score
15% off with code: SF15
15% off with code: SF15
The EOS Pillow Top is our top choice for couples because you can select a distinct firmness feel for the two sides of the bed. The mattress also uses eco-conscious materials, including responsive organic latex in the supportive pillow-top.
Price
$4,799
Mattress Type
Latex Hybrid
Firmness Options
Soft (3), Medium Soft (4), Medium (5), Medium Firm (6), Firm (7)
Trial Period
90 nights (30-night requirement)
Full Details
Who It’s Best For
The EOS Pillow Top is best for couples with diverging firmness preferences. It’s also an appealing mattress for people who like natural latex and eco-friendly design.
Feel
With five firmness levels to choose from, the feel can vary significantly. But all models have responsive natural latex that supports the body and keeps you from feeling stuck in place.
What It’s Made Of
The mattress has an organic cotton cover along with organic wool, plant-based fiber fill, and multiple layers of organic latex. An 8-inch layer of individually wrapped coils gives the mattress a sturdy base of support.
What We Don’t Like
The EOS Pillow Top’s price tag may be too high for some sleepers. There is also some assembly required to set up the mattress.
Scoring Breakdown
The following ratings show how suitable this mattress is for different sleeping positions and sleeper weights. These scores are determined by how well the mattress supports and relieves pressure for each sleeper type.
Best Mattress Overall
WinkBed
8.9 /10
Test Lab Score
Get $300 off all mattresses at Winkbeds
Shop NowThe WinkBed’s padded pillow-top complements a hybrid with impressive all-around performance.
See More Details
Best Value Mattress
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid – Medium
8.4 /10
Test Lab Score
25% off sitewide with code: SUMMER25
Shop NowAn optional cloud-like pillow-top gives this hybrid excellent performance and value.
See More Details
Best Luxury Mattress
Saatva Classic
9.4 /10
Test Lab Score
15% off orders of $1,000 or more
Shop NowA luxurious pillow-top mattress with the added perk of free White Glove delivery.
See More Details
Best Mattress for Side Sleepers
Helix Midnight Luxe
9.3 /10
Test Lab Score
Up to 30% off + 2 free pillows
Shop NowA pillow-top hybrid with comfortable materials that cradle the heavy joints of side sleepers.
See More Details
Most Comfortable Mattress
Nolah Evolution 15
8.8 /10
Test Lab Score
35% off sitewide + 2 free pillows with mattress purchase
Shop NowA hybrid whose pillow-top and responsive foam layers provide comfortable, targeted support.
See More Details
Best Temperature Regulating Mattress
Birch Luxe
8.9 /10
Test Lab Score
25% off sitewide + 2 free pillows with mattress purchase
Shop NowNatural and sustainable materials power this pillow-top that’s ideal for hot sleepers.
See More Details
Best Mattress for Back Pain
Cloverlane 15″ Hybrid
8.7 /10
Test Lab Score
$2,199 from Cloverlane (queen)
Shop NowThe Cloverlane Hybrid’s Euro-top with lumbar support is engineered to ward off back pain.
See More Details
Best Mattress for Heavy Sleepers
Saatva HD
9.2 /10
Test Lab Score
15% off orders of $1,000 or more
Shop NowThe Saatva HD has a tall pillow-top that enhances comfort for heavier sleepers.
See More Details
Best Mattress for Couples
Naturepedic EOS Pillow Top
8.6 /10
Test Lab Score
15% off with code: SF15
Shop NowA high-end hybrid with a responsive pillow-top and the option to have a different firmness level on each side.
See More Details
What Is a Pillow-Top Mattress and Who Should Sleep on One?
Pillow-top mattresses feature an extra top layer designed to enhance cushioning or responsiveness on the surface. The layer is typically composed of foam, latex, wool, or various fibers, and usually measures 2 to 4 inches. The edge of the pillow-top layer is not attached to the edge of the layer beneath, which gives it a cloudlike feel.
In general, side and back sleepers appreciate the extra padding of pillow-tops. This mattress type is also ideal for those seeking greater contouring or cushioning than conventional innerspring and hybrid mattresses. It’s also a good match for people who simply prefer a plush sleep surface.
| Pros | Cons |
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Who Should Not Sleep on a Pillow-Top Mattress?
In general, pillow-top mattresses are not ideal for sleepers who weigh over 230 pounds or who prefer a firm sleeping surface. Heavier sleepers, especially those who sleep on their back or stomach, need strong support. The cushioning of a pillow-top may cause these sleepers to sink uncomfortably deep.
Pillow-Top vs. Euro-Top
While pillow-tops and Euro-tops both feature a soft 2- to 4-inch layer sewn to the top of the mattress, there are several important differences between the two models. On a pillow-top, the perimeter of the surface layer is not attached to the mattress layers beneath. By contrast, the perimeter of the Euro-top surface layer is sewn onto the rest of the bed, creating a seamless appearance. Euro-tops also sometimes use denser materials that make the top layer feel more integrated with the mattress.
Euro-tops are often available in a wider range of firmness levels and can accommodate more types of sleepers. They also offer stronger edge support and better durability than traditional pillow-tops. As a result, Euro-tops generally carry a higher price-point. That said, they don’t always offer the immediately plush sensation that sleepers expect from a pillow-top.
Which Mattress Types Feature a Pillow-Top?
Pillow-tops are usually found on hybrid and innerspring mattresses, since they’re typically meant to balance the coils with extra cushioning and contouring. Foam mattresses already offer strong conforming, so it’s rare to find a foam model with a pillow-top.
| Mattress Type | Description | How it Performs |
|---|---|---|
| Hybrid | Hybrid mattresses combine sturdy coils with comfort layers made of foam, latex, or other conforming materials. | These mattresses are intended to provide a balance of cradling and support. Adding a pillow-top boosts the cushioning. |
| Innerspring | The most simple, traditional mattress design, these beds consist of supportive coils encased in a cover. | A pillow-top adds cushioning and pressure relief to the otherwise firm design. |
What Should You Look for in a Pillow-Top Mattress?
There are a number of factors to consider when choosing a mattress, whether it’s a pillow-top or not. We’ll walk you through some of the main considerations and explain how they vary according to a sleeper’s individual needs and preferences.
Materials
Materials determine the quality and feel of the entire mattress, including the pillow-top layer. Common materials used in pillow-tops include foam, latex, wool, and fiberfill. Natural fibers tend to be more durable than synthetic fiberfill, which varies in quality and may break down faster.
Foam often provides deeper contouring than other materials but ranges widely in quality. In general, low-density foam is less durable than high-density foam. Those who want a more responsive pillow-top layer may prefer latex. The bouncy feel provides strong ease of movement, but this also means it will not hug the body as closely as foam. Latex is generally a more natural and durable material than foam.
The comfort layers and pillow-top rest above a layer of coils. Many hybrid models feature pocketed coils, but there are several other types of coil — offset, continuous wire, and Bonnell — which play a role in the overall feel and durability of the mattress.
Firmness
Pillow-top mattresses tend to feel less firm than traditional hybrid or innerspring mattresses, but keep in mind that mattress firmness is subjective. How a mattress feels depends largely on the sleeper’s body weight and sleeping position. For example, a person who weighs over 230 pounds may find a medium firm mattress too soft and prone to sinking, while a sleeper who weighs 130 pounds might find the same mattress too firm. The best firmness level for you is one that provides a comfortable balance of pressure relief and support.
While pillow-tops usually suit sleepers who prefer softer beds, pillow-top and Euro-top mattresses are available in a range of firmness levels.
Feel and Support
Pillow-top mattresses are designed for sleepers who like a soft feel to their sleeping surface. The quilted surface layer cradles the body, while coils beneath push back. The balance of cushioning and support is important to maintaining healthy sleep posture. A mattress that promotes spinal alignment will offer enough cradling for the shoulders, hips, and spine while maintaining support for areas like the lower back.
Pillow-tops are usually meant to feel soft and luxurious, but the rest of the mattress should still provide ample support.
Watch Video: Benefits of Pressure Relief
In the video below, we’ll discuss why pressure relief is an important mattress quality, ways to determine how well a mattress alleviates pressure, and which types of mattresses generally perform well for pressure relief.
Thickness
Because of the extra layer quilted on top, both pillow-top and Euro-top mattresses tend to have a taller profile than the average mattress. Standard mattress thickness is generally 10 to 12 inches. For a pillow-top, expect a range of 13 to 15 inches. You may need to purchase deep pocket sheets in order to fit the higher profile.
Price
Shoppers looking for a cheap mattress with pressure relief sometimes opt for a pillow-top innerspring model, which tends to have a lower price-point. These models are typically less durable, but they cost as little as a few hundred dollars.
Euro-top and pillow-top hybrid models usually carry a steeper price-point because of their higher quality materials and more complex construction. They may cost anywhere from $700 to over $3,000 for a queen size. You can usually find a quality Euro-top or pillow-top hybrid for between $1,000 and $2,000.
Many online mattress companies include free shipping. Some also provide services like old mattress disposal and White Glove delivery. Keep in mind that since pillow-top mattresses often have taller profiles, you may need to invest in deep pocket sheets.
Dive Deeper – In-Depth Mattress Guides
If you’re still not sure if a pillow-top mattress is the best choice for your specific needs, take a look at our other guides broken down by mattress type.
Best Mattress by Type
- Best Mattress in a Box
- Best RV Mattress
- Best Mattress in Canada
- Best Smart Mattress
- Best Online Mattress
- Best Flippable Mattress
- Best Airbed Mattress
- Best Mattress for Bunk Beds
- Best Mattress on Amazon
- Best Temporary Air Mattress
- Best Walmart Mattress
- Best Memory Foam Mattress
- Best Crib Mattress
- Best Gel Mattress
Data-Driven Results You Can Trust
Sleepers’ experiences on a pillow-top mattress can vary widely, and the team at Sleep Foundation has personally tested dozens of models to provide you with the comprehensive information you need to choose the right one. Our testing team includes sleep product experts with different body types and preferences. Using data from a diverse group helps us provide you with well-researched and informed recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions
A pillow-top mattress has a 2- to 4-inch layer of cushioning sewn directly onto the top to provide a soft, plush sleeping surface. On a standard pillow-top, the edges do not connect to the perimeter of the mattress, while Euro-top mattresses integrate the edges of this top layer into the lower layers of the mattress.
As the name suggests, sleeping on a pillow-top mattress feels somewhat like having a large, plush pillow beneath your body. That said, the specific sleeping experience varies depending on the materials used and the overall firmness of the layers beneath.
The lifespan of a pillow-top mattress can range from three years to more than 10, depending on the quality of construction and materials. For example, latex generally lasts well over eight years, while low-density foam may start to deteriorate after several years. On average, you can expect a quality pillow-top mattress to last five to seven years.
To prolong the life of your mattress, practice proper cleaning and care, rotate the bed on occasion, and consider investing in a mattress pad or mattress protector.
A pillow-top mattress that offers a combination of support and pressure relief will likely help relieve back pain. However, the ideal balance for each sleeper will vary according to sleeping position and body weight.
The term pillow-top applies exclusively to mattresses with a soft layer sewn onto the top, but a hybrid mattress is any model that combines a coiled support system with comfort layers made from other materials. While many pillow-top mattresses are also hybrids, not all hybrids have pillow-top designs.
While pillow-top mattresses may be prone to sagging over time, you can enhance longevity by ensuring that the mattress has a proper bed frame. You can also opt for a mattress made from more durable materials such as latex.
Still have questions?
Our product experts have extensive experience testing just about every sleep product on the market.
Send an email to [email protected] with your questions and we’ll help you find exactly what you’re looking for.
Logan is a Certified Sleep Science Coach with a deep understanding of what it means to struggle with sleep. Her years of experience researching and testing sleep products – including mattresses, natural sleep aids, and bedding – are critical to her role helping lead the editorial team. As a chronic insomniac, she aims to bring her findings to anyone struggling with getting adequate rest. Her expertise is in creating informative, trustworthy, and useful health content. When she’s not testing mattresses or researching CBT-I, she enjoys spending time in the sunshine with her husband and her dogs Pepper and Winston.