Question 1

What is a pillow top mattress?

Accepted Answer

A pillow top mattress is a mattress with an extra layer of soft cushioning material sewn onto the top surface. This layer — typically made of foam, fiber, or a combination — is attached along the edges with a visible seam, creating a raised, pillow-like appearance. The pillow top adds immediate surface softness without changing the underlying support system, which is usually an innerspring or pocketed coil structure.

Question 2

What's the difference between a pillow top and a euro top?

Accepted Answer

The main difference is how the comfort layer is attached and how it looks. A pillow top has a visible seam and a slight gap between the comfort layer and the mattress edge, creating a raised, pillow-like profile. A euro top has the comfort layer sewn flush with the mattress sides — the edge goes all the way to the perimeter, giving a cleaner, more integrated appearance. Euro tops also tend to wear more evenly because the extra material extends to the edge.

Question 3

Are pillow top mattresses good for side sleepers?

Accepted Answer

Yes — pillow top mattresses are among the best options for side sleepers. When sleeping on your side, your shoulders and hips create pressure points that need cushioning to prevent pain and numbness. The extra comfort layer in a pillow top mattress provides that cushioning, allowing these areas to sink in gently while the coil support system beneath keeps your spine aligned.

Question 4

How long do pillow top mattresses last?

Accepted Answer

A quality pillow top mattress typically lasts 8-12 years. One thing to be aware of: the pillow top layer can develop an impression or body indentation faster than the core of the mattress, especially with lower-density materials. Higher-end pillow tops from brands like Stearns & Foster use denser, more resilient materials that hold up significantly longer. Rotating your mattress every 3-6 months helps distribute wear more evenly.

Question 5

Do pillow top mattresses need special sheets?

Accepted Answer

Yes — pillow top mattresses require deep-pocket fitted sheets. Because pillow tops are typically 14" to 17" or more in height, standard fitted sheets (designed for mattresses up to 12") won't stay on properly. Look for deep-pocket sheets labeled 15" to 20" pocket depth. If your mattress is on the taller end (16"-17"+), extra-deep pocket sheets (18"-20") are the safest choice.

Question 6

Can you flip a pillow top mattress?

Accepted Answer

No — pillow top mattresses are one-sided and cannot be flipped. Instead, rotate your pillow top mattress 180 degrees (head to foot) every 3 to 6 months. This distributes body weight more evenly across the comfort layer and helps prevent body impressions from forming in one spot.

Question 7

Are pillow top mattresses good for back pain?

Accepted Answer

Pillow top mattresses can be excellent for back pain when chosen carefully. The cushioning reduces pressure on the lower back, hips, and shoulders. However, a pillow top that is too soft can cause the hips to sink excessively, misaligning the spine. For back pain, a medium or medium-firm pillow top is often the best choice.

Question 8

Can I use a pillow top mattress on an adjustable base?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the specific mattress and adjustable base combination. Some pillow top mattresses — particularly those with flexible coil or foam support systems — are fully compatible. Others, especially those with rigid interconnected coil systems, may not flex properly. Always confirm adjustable base compatibility before purchasing.

Feature	You're herePillow Top	Standard	Euro Top	Memory Foam
Softness	Very High (plush sewn-on layer)	Depends on comfort layer	High (flush integrated layer)	High (slow-response contouring)
Support	Good (coil beneath)	Good to Excellent	Good (coil beneath)	Moderate to Good
Durability	8-12 years	8-15 years	9-13 years	8-12 years
Height	14"-17"+ (raised seam)	9"-13"	13"-16" (flush edge)	10"-14"
Sheet fit	Deep-pocket (15"-20")	Standard sheets OK	Deep-pocket (15"+)	Deep-pocket (15"+)
Best for	Side sleepers, comfort seekers	Back/stomach, budget	Clean look, comfort	Motion isolation, pressure

Pillow Top Mattresses

The classic plush upgrade.

Plush hotel feel

Pressure relief

Tall, dramatic profile

Traditional craftsmanship

Six brands. One construction.

Stearns & Foster

Spring Air

Eastman House

Diamond

Englander

Honest pricing from $599 to $6,499.

Value

Mid-Range

Premium

All pillow top mattresses we carry.

Pillow top vs every other construction.

Who pillow tops are for.

Side sleepers

Hotel-feel lovers

Pressure-point sufferers

You'll need deep-pocket sheets.

Pillow tops vary. Feel the difference.