Pillow Top Mattresses: What They Are, Who They're For, and How to Choose

Pillow top mattresses have become one of the most popular sleep upgrades for LA residents — and for good reason. If you've ever slept in a hotel and wondered why the bed felt so much better than yours at home, there's a good chance it was a pillow top.

This guide breaks down exactly what a pillow top mattress is, who it works best for, and what to look for before you buy.

01In This Article

1. What Is a Pillow Top Mattress?
2. Key Benefits
3. Pillow Top vs. Other Mattress Types
4. Who Should Consider One?
5. How to Choose the Right Pillow Top
6. Care & Maintenance
7. Frequently Asked Questions

02What Is a Pillow Top Mattress?

A pillow top mattress has an extra layer of cushioning sewn directly onto the top surface. This layer — usually 2 to 4 inches of foam, latex, fiber, or a blend — creates that signature plush, cloud-like feel without sacrificing the support of the mattress underneath.

Unlike a mattress topper (which sits on top and can shift), the pillow top is permanently attached. It's part of the mattress itself.

03Key Benefits

• Pressure relief: The extra cushioning reduces stress on hips, shoulders, and joints — especially helpful for side sleepers.
• Spinal alignment: The soft top conforms to your body while the firmer base maintains support.
• Motion isolation: The extra padding absorbs movement, making it a solid choice for couples.
• Comfort without sacrifice: You get the luxury feel of a plush mattress with the structural support of a firmer base.

04Pillow Top vs. Other Mattress Types

05Who Should Consider a Pillow Top Mattress?

Great fit for:

• Side sleepers — The extra cushioning reduces pressure on hips and shoulders.
• Couples — Motion isolation helps one partner sleep through the other's movement.
• People with joint or back discomfort — The plush surface reduces pressure point buildup overnight.
• Those who love a hotel-bed feel — Pillow tops closely replicate the comfort of high-end hotel sleep.

May not be the best choice if:

• You're a stomach sleeper who needs a very firm, flat surface for neutral spine alignment.
• You sleep hot and need aggressive cooling — consider a hybrid or gel foam option with better airflow.
• You weigh over 250 lbs — a firmer pillow top or medium-firm hybrid mattress may offer better longevity.

06How to Choose the Right Pillow Top

Not all pillow tops are created equal. Here's what to evaluate:

1. What's Inside the Pillow Top Layer?

• Memory foam: Contouring, pressure relief, slower response
• Latex: Responsive, durable, naturally cooling — available in organic options
• Fiber fill: Softest feel, but may compress faster over time
• Gel foam: Good pressure relief with added temperature regulation

2. Firmness of the Base

The pillow top adds softness, but the base determines overall support. A medium or medium-firm base is the most versatile choice, especially for couples with different firmness preferences.

3. Height and Profile

Pillow tops typically add 2–4 inches to mattress height. Make sure your sheets and bed frame can accommodate — standard sheets often don't fit mattresses over 14".

4. Try It Before You Buy

Softness is subjective. What feels heavenly to one person feels squishy to another. The best way to know is to test it in person. You can visit any of our LA showrooms and spend as much time as you need — no pressure.

07Care & Maintenance

Pillow tops are not flippable — they're designed with one sleep side. Here's how to keep yours in good shape:

• Rotate every 3 months (head to foot) to distribute wear evenly
• Use a mattress protector — pillow top fabrics can be difficult to clean; a waterproof cover extends lifespan
• Don't fold or bend the mattress — this can damage the internal cushioning layers
• Vacuum occasionally to remove dust and allergens from the surface

If you're unsure which option is right for you, our team at LA Mattress Store can walk you through the full pillow top collection in person. All purchases come with our 120-Night Comfort Guarantee, so you can sleep on it — literally — before you commit. Flexible financing is also available.

08Frequently Asked Questions

What is a pillow top mattress?

A pillow top mattress has an extra layer of padding stitched onto its top surface, creating a softer, more cushioned feel while the base layer provides structural support.

Are pillow top mattresses good for back pain?

They can be — the pillow top reduces pressure points, and a medium-firm base supports proper spinal alignment. The right firmness level matters; if back pain is a concern, testing in-store is recommended.

How long do pillow top mattresses last?

With proper care, most pillow tops last 7–10 years. Rotating the mattress regularly and using a protector can extend its lifespan.

Can you flip a pillow top mattress?

No — pillow tops are one-sided by design. Flipping them would put the wrong side up. Rotate head-to-foot every three months instead.

Do pillow top mattresses sleep hot?

It depends on the materials. Fiber-filled and all-foam pillow tops can retain heat. Look for hybrid pillow tops (foam + innerspring coils) or gel-infused materials if you tend to sleep warm.

What sizes are available?

Pillow top mattresses come in all standard sizes: Twin, Full, Queen, King, and California King.

Are pillow top mattresses good for couples?

Generally yes — the extra cushioning and motion isolation make them a solid pick for couples, especially those with different sleep positions.

Is financing available?

Yes. LA Mattress Store offers flexible financing options on most mattress purchases.

Can I try one before buying?

Absolutely. Come into any of our 5 LA showrooms and test as many as you need.

Are there organic pillow top options?

Yes — we carry organic and natural mattresses including latex-topped options with organic cotton covers.