Wanting a good night’s sleep? If quality sleep feels out of your reach, it’s probably time to buy a new mattress. Yours may be in good shape, but it may not be the right kind for your body type, sleeping position, and common sleep complaints. The options can feel overwhelming, so we’ll begin with evaluating one popular mattress type: the pillow top mattress. If you want to feel like you’re sleeping on a cloud, then a pillow top is the mattress for you.
In this article, we’ll break down what a pillow top mattress is, who it’s best for, and the pros and cons of choosing one. Then, we’ll compare it to other mattress types and recommend our top 4 pillow top mattresses from Lacks.
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Shop MattressesWhat Is a Pillow Top Mattress?
A pillow top mattress is known for the added top layer that offers pillow-like padding. It’s perfect for those who prefer a soft or plush mattress and who enjoy feeling like they’re sinking into their mattress instead of hovering on top of it.
In general, especially if your mattress is also on the softer end of the mattress spectrum, pillow top mattresses are ideal for side sleepers, people who prioritize comfort and enjoy a plush sleeping surface, couples, and those who want a luxurious and hotel-like experience. Side sleepers may find that a pillow top mattress helps relieve pressure points, especially around their hips and shoulders. Couples may benefit from pillow top mattresses’ superior motion isolation, meaning that movements from one partner are less likely to disturb the other’s sleep.
Pros & Cons of Pillow Top Mattresses
There is no one-size-fits-all when mattress shopping, so let’s compare the pros and cons of pillow top mattresses.
Pros
Comfort
Pillow top mattresses offer exceptional comfort with their extra padding, providing a plush and luxurious sleeping surface.
Pressure Relief
The added cushioning in pillow top mattresses helps alleviate pressure points, making them ideal for side sleepers who need extra support for their hips and shoulders.
Motion Isolation
Many pillow top mattresses excel at isolating motion and absorbing movement, reducing disturbances from a sleeping partner's movements.
Durability (with proper maintenance)
High-quality pillow top mattresses can be durable and long-lasting if properly cared for and constructed with quality materials.
Luxurious Feel
The appearance and feel of a pillow top mattress can add a touch of luxury to your bedroom, reminiscent of your favorite upscale hotel.
Cons
Durability Concerns (in some cases)
Because pillow top mattresses cannot be flipped over, they may have a shorter lifespan. Lower-quality models may develop body impressions or sagging over time, especially without proper care.
Support Issues
While comfortable, pillow top mattresses may not provide adequate support for individuals with specific back or spinal issues. Some users may find them too soft, leading to improper spinal alignment.
Heat Retention
Certain pillow top mattresses may trap heat due to the added padding, potentially creating a warmer sleep environment, which could be uncomfortable for some sleepers.
Not Ideal for All Body Types
Pillow top mattresses tend to be better for lighter-weight individuals because heavier individuals may sink too far into the plush top layer of a pillow top mattress. This could lead to discomfort or misalignment during sleep.
Pillow Top Mattresses vs Other Mattress Types
When you’re browsing mattresses, you can search by mattress type or construction. At Lacks, you can narrow your search for pocketed coil, wrapped coil, Euro top, pillow top, tight top, box top, gel memory foam, memory foam, hybrid, mattress in a box, and foam. Now, these categories are not mutually exclusive. You can have a memory foam mattress in a box with a tight top, or you can have a hybrid pillow top mattress.
With a few exceptions, you can split these into two categories: mattress top type (Euro, pillow, tight, box) and interior construction type (pocketed coil, wrapped coil, gel memory foam, memory foam, hybrid, foam).
Just like pillow top mattresses can come in all of the common mattress construction types, you can also choose from a variety of comfort (or firmness) levels. Although pillow tops are typically associated with plush or soft beds–and they certainly do add extra softness–you can have a firm mattress with a pillow top.
Like any mattress type, you can choose from a twin, twin XL, full, queen, or king pillow top mattress. This will depend on the size and layout of your room.
The key to finding the right type for you is to consider what mattress type matches your body type and sleeping style — and test them out in person. Remember that, while pillow top mattresses are known for their plush feel, you can find firm models to suit stomach sleepers, back sleepers, and people over 130 pounds.
→ Learn more: Hybrid Mattress vs Memory Foam: How to Decide
4 Top Pillow Top Mattresses
Keep reading for our best pillow top mattress picks from Lacks. All the models listed below are listed as queen size, but you can find most of them as a king size pillow top mattress as well.
Restonic Juliet Hybrid Pillow Top Queen Mattress
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This Restonic pillow top mattress targets pressure relief with its unique design. The coils in the center third of the mattress are 25% thicker for extra support for your shoulders and hips. You can also opt for the mattress set with a standard foundation for added support. If overheating during the night is a concern for you, you don’t have to worry thanks to a luxurious cooling cover, two cooling layers, and ventilated airflow edges that encourage air circulation. Its plush comfort level is ideal for side sleepers and lighter-weight individuals.
Restonic Kendal II Hybrid Luxury Medium Queen Mattress
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This queen pillow top mattress from Restonic is similar to our last pick but will appeal to a wider range of body types and sleeping positions thanks to its medium comfort level. If you want the comfort of a pillow top mattress with a bit more support, this is an excellent option. Hot sleepers and those looking for pressure relief and spinal support can rest at ease on this mattress pillow top.
Aireloom Night Stars Luxetop Queen M1 Firm Mattress with 2,080 Micro Coils
Shop this Aireloom Pillow Top Mattress
This Aireloom pillow top mattress is a luxurious choice from the Preferred Collection. It naturally contours to your body’s shape, striking a balance between comfort and support. The combination of a pillow top and firm mattress allows back sleepers, stomach sleepers, and heavier-weight individuals to enjoy the luxury of a pillow top mattress without waking up with the back pain a plush mattress might cause. For hot sleepers, this pick is breathable and temperature-regulated.
Aireloom Night Stars Luxetop Queen M2 with 4,160 Micro Coils
Shop this Aireloom Pillow Top Mattress
This Aireloom queen pillow top mattress provides the luxury you’re looking for. The quality of the materials can’t be beat. Handmade in California, this mattress is composed of layers of intentionally selected materials from Plush Aireluxe foam to plush, graphite-infused latex. This plush mattress is ideal for side sleepers and lighter weight individuals who want an upscale, cloud-like mattress.
Why Choose a Pillow Top Mattress
Pillow top mattresses are great for comfort-seekers, not for those who are looking for a firm feel. That doesn’t mean they aren’t supportive, but they’re known for being plush. If that sounds right up your alley, consider these telltale signs that a pillow top mattress is right for you:
- You’re a side sleeper.
- You weigh less than 130 pounds.
- You’re seeking pressure relief for your shoulders and hips.
- You would describe your dream mattress as “soft,” “plush,” or “cloud-like.”
- You want to bring the mattress home every time you stay in a luxurious hotel or resort.
If two or more of these fit you, a pillow top mattress might be the perfect choice for your next mattress.
Pillow Top Mattress FAQ
No, pillow top mattresses should not be flipped, but you can rotate them.
You can clean your pillow top mattress with a pet odor remover or carpet cleaner, or by sprinkling baking soda over the mattress for 24 hours and then vacuuming it up.
There is no clear “good” or “bad” in the mattress world. What is good for one sleeper may be bad for another. The key is to compare all mattress types and research what kind of sleeper (body type, sleep position, common complaints) each type is best for.
At Lacks, Texas shoppers can find pillow top mattresses for every price point, including plush, medium, and firm models.
Whether you’re seeking a luxury sleep experience or are just looking for some pressure relief, a pillow top mattress might be the right fit for you. As you shop, make sure to consider the mattress construction type and comfort/firmness level as well. You can stop by one of our Texas showrooms to try a pillow top mattress in person and see if it’s the key to your good night’s sleep.
Why Trust Lacks?
With nearly a century of experience, Lacks Furniture has a long-standing history of providing quality furniture and exceptional service. Founded on the principles of resilience and community service, their legacy ensures a commitment to customer satisfaction. Lacks Furniture offers a wide variety of furniture options to suit every taste and need. Whether you are looking for stylish living room sofas, elegant dining sets, cozy bedroom furniture, or functional office furnishings, they have it all. Their extensive selection even includes a selection of high-quality mattresses and appliances.
One of the standout features of Lacks Furniture is our free design services. Whether you're redecorating a single room or furnishing an entire home, our expert design consultants can help you bring your vision to life. Over the decades, Lacks Furniture has earned the trust of the community not just through our products, but also through our involvement and dedication to local causes and organizations. When searching for a "furniture store near me" in southern Texas, Lacks Furniture stands out as a trusted and reliable choice.
Shop Pillow Top Mattresses at Lacks Furniture
Lacks Furniture is more than just a furniture store; it’s a destination where quality, variety, service, and community commitment come together to offer an unparalleled shopping experience. Whether you're looking for new furniture or a mattress, or need help with home design, Lacks Furniture is a trustworthy choice that promises to meet and exceed your expectations. Visit one of our furniture gallerias to see everything that Lacks has to offer. If you have questions, our sales team is always happy to help you find the right pillow top mattress for you. Stop by a Lacks Furniture location or give us a call to learn more.
→ Learn more: Best Furniture Stores in Brownsville, TX: Lacks Furniture