What is a Pillow Top Mattress? Why Should You Avoid Them?

When shopping for a new mattress, you’ve likely encountered the term "pillow top" more than once. It sounds inviting, doesn’t it? The idea of a mattress that offers an extra layer of plush comfort, almost like sleeping on a cloud, might be tempting. But before you decide, it’s essential to dig a little deeper. While pillow top mattresses promise comfort, they might not be the best choice for everyone. In this blog, we’ll explore what a pillow top mattress is, how it's made, and why it might not be the ideal option for you.

Pillow-top mattresses have gained popularity over the years for their luxurious feel and the promise of a good night's sleep. These mattresses typically feature a layer of cushioning on top of the mattress core, giving the bed its signature "pillow" appearance. But, despite their widespread appeal, many consumers need to be aware of these mattresses' potential downsides. Understanding the pros and cons of pillow top mattresses will help you make an informed decision.

What is a Pillow Top Mattress?

A pillow-top mattress is a standard mattress with an extra layer of padding sewn onto the top. This additional layer, ranging from a few centimetres to several inches thick, enhances the mattress's softness and provides extra comfort. Depending on the manufacturer and the intended feel of the mattress, the pillow-top layer can be made from various materials, including memory foam, latex, wool, or fiberfill. Shop Bounce Back Pillows from Yorkshire Bedding at the best prices.

The concept behind a pillow top mattress is simple: it combines the support of a traditional mattress with the plush comfort of a soft topper. This can particularly appeal to those who prefer a softer sleeping surface, as it offers a cushioned feel without sacrificing the support the underlying mattress provides.

How Pillow Top Mattresses Are Made?

The construction of a pillow-top mattress involves layering. The base is typically made of innerspring coils, memory foam, or latex, which provide the necessary support. The pillow-top layer is then sewn onto the surface of the mattress, often with a gusseted edge to create a distinct separation between the top layer and the base. This construction technique gives the mattress not only its characteristic look but also its unique feel.

The materials used in the pillow top layer can vary significantly, affecting the overall comfort and durability of the mattress. Common materials include:

Memory Foam: Known for its contouring properties, memory foam pillow tops can provide a customised feel that moulds to the shape of your body.
Latex: A natural and durable material, latex pillow tops offer a bouncy and responsive feel, ideal for those who prefer a lift in their mattress.
Wool: Often used for its temperature-regulating properties, wool pillow tops can keep you cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
Fibrefill: A more affordable option, fibrefill pillow tops offer a plush feel but may lack the durability and support of other materials.

Materials Commonly Used in Pillow Tops

Understanding the materials used in the pillow top layer is crucial to determining whether a mattress is right for you. Here are some of the most common materials used:

Polyester Fibre: Often found in budget pillow tops, polyester fibre is soft but tends to compress quickly, leading to a loss of comfort over time.
Gel-Infused Memory Foam: This material combines the contouring properties of memory foam with cooling gel beads to help regulate temperature, making it a popular choice for hot sleepers.
Cotton: A natural and breathable option, cotton pillow tops offer a soft and comfortable surface, though they may not provide the same level of support as other materials.
Down or Feather: Known for its luxurious feel, down or feather pillow tops offer a soft and fluffy surface but may require regular fluffing to maintain their loft.

Each material offers its benefits and drawbacks, so it’s essential to consider your preferences and needs when choosing a pillow-top mattress.

Advantages of Pillow Top Mattresses

Despite the potential drawbacks, pillow top mattresses offer several advantages that appeal to many sleepers. Here are some of the key benefits:

Initial Comfort and Plushness: The primary appeal of a pillow top mattress lies in its immediate comfort. The extra layer of padding provides a soft and cushioned surface that can make the bed feel more inviting and luxurious.
Pressure Relief for Side Sleepers: Side sleepers often experience pressure points on their hips and shoulders. The additional cushioning of a pillow top mattress can help alleviate this discomfort by providing extra support where it’s needed most.
Affordability Compared to Luxury Mattresses: While pillow top mattresses can be more expensive than standard mattresses, they are often more affordable than other luxury options like all-latex or high-end memory foam mattresses, making them an attractive middle-ground option.
Aesthetic Appeal in the Bedroom: Pillow-top mattresses often have a more luxurious and plush appearance, adding a touch of elegance to your bedroom décor. The quilted, cushioned top can make your bed look and feel more inviting.

Common Drawbacks of Pillow Top Mattresses

While the advantages may be enticing, it’s essential to consider the potential downsides before investing in a pillow-top mattress. Here are some of the common drawbacks:

Loss of Support Over Time: One of the most significant issues with pillow top mattresses is their tendency to lose support as the top layer compresses over time. This can lead to a less supportive sleep surface, potentially causing discomfort or exacerbating pain.
Reduced Durability: The materials used in pillow top layers, notably cheaper options like polyester fibre, can break down faster than the mattress's core, leading to a shorter lifespan overall.
Susceptibility to Sagging: Pillow-top mattresses are notorious for developing sagging spots, particularly in areas where you sleep most often. This can lead to an uneven surface that disrupts your sleep and may require frequent mattress flipping or rotation to mitigate.
Difficulty in Maintenance and Cleaning: The plush surface of a pillow top mattress can make it more challenging to clean and maintain. Dust, allergens, and stains can become trapped in the top layer, and because it’s sewn directly onto the mattress, it’s not as easy to remove or replace as a separate mattress topper.

The Problem with Pillow Top Mattresses That No One Tells You

Beyond the more apparent drawbacks, several issues with pillow-top mattresses often go unnoticed or are not discussed as openly. These hidden problems can significantly impact your overall sleep experience and the longevity of your mattress.

Inconsistent Firmness Levels: One of the most frustrating aspects of pillow-top mattresses is the inconsistency in firmness levels. The pillow-top layer can create a soft surface, but the firmness of the mattress core can vary widely, leading to a disjointed feel that may not provide the support you need.
Limited Customisation Options: Unlike other types of mattresses, pillow tops offer limited customisation options. Once the pillow top is sewn onto the bed, you’re stuck with that level of softness, which may not be ideal as your comfort preferences change over time.
Potential Heat Retention Issues: Many pillow top materials, particularly memory foam, are known for their heat retention properties. This can lead to an uncomfortably warm sleep surface, particularly for those naturally sleeping hot.
Incompatibility with Certain Bed Frames: Due to their construction and thickness, pillow top mattresses may only be compatible with some bed frames, particularly those with adjustable bases. This can limit your options when selecting the proper bed setup.

Health Implications of Using a Pillow Top Mattress

Choosing the wrong mattress can have profound health implications, and pillow top mattresses are no exception. While they may offer initial comfort, the long-term effects on your health can be less desirable.

Impact on Spinal Alignment: A mattress that fails to provide adequate support can negatively affect spinal alignment. Pillow-top mattresses, particularly those that sag or lose support over time, can cause your spine to fall out of alignment, leading to pain and discomfort.
Potential for Back and Neck Pain: The uneven support provided by a worn-out pillow top mattress can lead to chronic back and neck pain. Without proper support, your muscles and joints are forced to compensate, which can result in long-term damage and discomfort.
Allergy Concerns with Pillow Top Materials: Many pillow top materials, particularly synthetic ones, can harbour dust mites, mould, and other allergens. This can exacerbate allergies and lead to poor indoor air quality, mainly if the mattress is not cleaned and maintained regularly.
Long-Term Sleep Quality Issues: The initial comfort of a pillow-top mattress can be deceiving. Over time, the lack of support and the other issues mentioned above can lead to a decline in sleep quality, making it harder to achieve restful, restorative sleep. Shop Hotel Quality Pillows from Yorkshire Bedding at the best prices.

Why You Should Avoid Pillow Top Mattresses?

Given the various issues associated with pillow top mattresses, you might wonder if they’re worth the investment. While they offer certain benefits, the drawbacks often outweigh the advantages.

Misleading Marketing Claims: Pillowtop mattresses are often marketed as the ultimate solution for comfort and support. However, these claims can be deceptive. The initial comfort may not last, and the durability, support, and maintenance issues can quickly outweigh the benefits.
High Cost vs. Value Proposition: Pillow-top mattresses tend to be priced higher than standard mattresses due to the added materials and construction. However, this higher cost doesn’t necessarily translate to better value, particularly when considering the potential for reduced lifespan and the need for replacement sooner than other mattress types.
Better Alternatives Available: As we’ll discuss later, there are better alternatives to pillow top mattresses that offer more consistent support, better durability, and a more customisable sleep experience.
Environmental Concerns and Material Waste: The construction of pillow top mattresses often involves synthetic materials and adhesives that can harm the environment. Additionally, the shorter lifespan of these mattresses can contribute to more waste, as they need to be replaced more frequently.

What Is The Alternative To A Pillow Top Mattress?

You're not alone if you’re reconsidering your decision to purchase a pillow-top mattress. Many sleepers have found that alternative mattress types offer better support, comfort, and longevity. Here are some of the top alternatives:

Memory Foam Mattresses: Known for their contouring abilities, memory foam mattresses offer a customised sleeping surface that adapts to your body shape. They provide excellent pressure relief and support, making them a popular choice for those with back or joint pain.
Latex Mattresses: Latex mattresses are highly durable and offer a responsive, bouncy feel. They are also naturally hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites, making them an excellent option for allergy sufferers.
Hybrid Mattresses: Hybrid mattresses combine the best of both worlds. They feature a blend of innerspring coils and foam or latex layers. This design supports a traditional mattress with the comfort of a foam or latex top layer, offering a balanced sleep experience.
Orthopaedic Mattresses: Explicitly designed for those with back and joint issues, orthopaedic mattresses provide firm support to promote proper spinal alignment. Health professionals often recommend them for those suffering from chronic pain.

Conclusion

Pillow-top mattresses may seem like a dream for those seeking a plush and comfortable sleep surface. However, the reality is that these mattresses often come with a range of drawbacks that can affect your sleep quality and overall health. From issues with durability and support to potential health implications, there are several reasons to think twice before investing in a pillow-top mattress.

Fortunately, plenty of alternative options offer better support, customisation, and long-term value. By understanding your sleep preferences and researching, you can find a mattress that provides the comfort and support you need for a restful night’s sleep.

FAQs

Are Pillow Top Mattresses Suitable for All Sleepers?

Due to their plush surface, pillow-top mattresses are best suited for side sleepers. However, they may not support back and stomach sleepers, which require a firmer mattress to maintain proper spinal alignment.

How Long Does a Pillow Top Mattress Typically Last?

The lifespan of a pillowtop mattress can vary, but it typically lasts 5 to 7 years. However, the top layer may compress and lose its comfort well before the mattress core wears out.

Can You Flip a Pillow Top Mattress?

Due to the construction of the top layer, most pillow-top mattresses are designed to be kept from being flipped. Instead, they should be rotated regularly to prevent uneven wear and sagging.

Is a Pillow Top Mattress Worth the Investment?

While pillowtop mattresses offer initial comfort, they may not be the best long-term investment due to issues with durability and support. Alternative mattress types provide better value and a more consistent sleep experience.