Shopping for a mattress can feel like learning a new language.
Terms like “Euro top” and “pillow top” pop up often, but the difference isn’t always obvious. Both add a plush layer to the top of a mattress, though they do it in slightly different ways.
How Euro top or pillow top mattresses are built can affect comfort, durability, and the kind of sleep you get night after night.
Key Takeaways
- Euro top and pillow top mattresses may appear similar, but they differ in construction, feel, and long-term support.
- Pillow tops are softer and suit side sleepers, while Euro tops are more structured and often last longer.
- Your sleep style, comfort preferences, and budget should guide your decision on whether to get a pillow top or Euro top mattress, along with proper mattress care.
In this blog, we’ll break down how the comfort layers between these two different styles compare.
We’ll explain what sets them apart, the benefits and drawbacks of each, and how to figure out which one’s right for your sleep style.
Whether you’re after a softer surface or a bit more structure, understanding the difference can help you choose a mattress that actually delivers on comfort.
Jump to a section:
- Pillow Top vs Euro Top: What’s the Difference?
- What Is a Euro Top Mattress?
- What Is a Pillow Top Mattress?
- What to Consider When Choosing a Pillow Top vs Euro Top
- Tips for Caring for Your Mattress
- Final Verdict
Pillow Top vs Euro Top: What’s the Difference?
Both styles offer a softer surface to sleep on, but they’re built differently. These small differences can change how a mattress feels, holds up, and even how it looks in your bedroom.
Here’s how they compare side-by-side:
| Feature | Pillow Top | Euro Top |
| Appearance | Sits on top of the mattress with a visible seam or gap. | Built into the mattress and sits flush with the edges. |
| Material Feel | Soft and lofty with even cushioning across the surface. | Firmer at the edges and softer in the centre. |
| Edge Support | Weaker edge support due to its raised, less structured design. | Offers better edge support with a more stable perimeter. |
| Durability | Lasts around 5 to 8 years and may flatten out sooner. | Lasts around 8 to 10 years and holds its shape longer. |
| Cost | More affordable and often found in entry-level models. | Generally more expensive due to added structure and stitching. |
1. Appearance
Pillow tops are easy to spot. They sit above the mattress surface and have a visible seam or gap where the top layer is attached. Think of it like a soft pad sewn right on top.
Euro tops are stitched beneath the outer fabric, so the extra layer blends into the mattress. The edges look smoother and more squared-off, which gives a cleaner overall finish.
2. Material Feel
Both styles use soft materials like foam or fibre to create a cushioned surface.
Pillow tops typically feel loftier and offer even softness across the mattress, making them ideal for those who like a more cloud-like experience.
Euro tops, by contrast, tend to be firmer around the edges and softer in the centre. This creates a more balanced feel with structure at the sides and cushioning where you sleep most.
However, it’s worth noting that the overall feel of a mattress depends more on its core design and firmness level. The type of top layer adds to comfort, but what’s underneath usually has a greater effect on how the bed feels over time.
3. Edge Support
Euro tops generally offer better edge support. Their structure is firmer around the perimeter, and the top layer sits flush with the sides of the mattress. This gives a more stable feel when you’re sitting or lying near the edge.
Pillow tops offer a bit less edge support. Since the comfort layer is stitched on top rather than built into the mattress, the edges can feel softer and less reinforced over time.
4. Durability
Euro tops are usually more durable than pillow tops, so they tend to last longer. While both types will wear down over time, pillow tops are more likely to flatten or lose their shape sooner.
On average, a Euro top can last between 8 to 10 years with proper care. Pillow tops, on the other hand, often show signs of wear after 5 to 8 years.
5. Cost
Pillow tops are usually more budget-friendly. Euro tops, with their extra stitching and stronger construction, often sit at a higher price point.
That said, prices vary widely depending on brand and materials.
What Is a Euro Top Mattress?
A Euro top mattress is designed with an extra layer of padding sewn directly into the mattress underneath the outer fabric cover. Instead of sitting on top like a separate cushion, the Euro top is built into the structure, creating a seamless look and a more solid feel around the edges.
This top layer is usually made from materials like memory foam, latex, or fibrefill, all chosen for their ability to offer comfort without compromising support. These denser materials also help the mattress maintain its shape over time.
Pros
- Better edge support thanks to the integrated design
- More durable than pillow tops over time
- Smoother appearance that fits flush with the mattress edges
- Reduced motion transfer for less partner disturbance
- Less sagging in the top layer, even after years of use
Cons
- Firmer feel around the edges, which may not suit everyone
- Higher cost, especially in premium models
- Less pronounced softness compared to traditional pillow tops
What Is a Pillow Top Mattress?
A pillow top mattress has an extra layer of padding stitched onto the top surface, giving it a soft, cushion-like feel. The top layer is usually made from materials like polyfoam, memory foam, cotton, or wool.
This design creates that classic “sink-in” softness, which many side sleepers and pressure-sensitive sleepers enjoy. It feels airy and plush, offering a balanced level of comfort across the surface.
Some models go a step further with added flexibility. You’ll find pillow tops that are removable or zippered into place, giving you a more secure fit or the option to adjust the layer as needed.
If you’re after that plush feel with real support, our AeroLux Mattress might be worth a look. It combines a soft pillow top with responsive springs and memory foam, plus breathable, plant-based fibres to help keep you cool.
Pros
- Extra soft feel, great for side sleepers and pressure relief
- Balanced cushioning across the entire surface
- Lower cost, making it more accessible for budget-conscious shoppers
- Lightweight and breathable materials, depending on the model
- Easier to find across a wide range of mattress brands
Cons
- Less edge support, especially after long-term use
- More prone to sagging or flattening over time
- Top layer may shift, depending on how it’s stitched
- Shorter lifespan, typically lasting 5 to 8 years
What to Consider When Choosing a Pillow Top vs Euro Top
The right choice depends on how you sleep and what kind of comfort you’re looking for.
Before you commit to a mattress, here are the key factors worth thinking about:
1. Sleeping Position
Your go-to sleep style plays a big role in choosing between a pillow top and a Euro top mattress.
- Side Sleepers
✅ Pillow Top ❌ Euro Top
Extra cushioning helps reduce pressure on shoulders and hips.
- Back Sleepers
❌ Pillow Top ✅ Euro Top
The firmer surface supports spinal alignment more effectively.
- Stomach Sleepers
❌ Pillow Top ✅ Euro Top
A flatter, more structured surface helps prevent lower back strain.
- Combination Sleepers
✅ Pillow Top & Euro Top
Both can work depending on your preference. Pillow tops offer comfort through position changes, while Euro tops provide more consistent support.
2. Pressure Relief
If you deal with joint pain or sore spots, the softer surface of a pillow top can ease pressure on hips, shoulders, and knees. It’s especially helpful for side sleepers who need extra cushioning around key joints.
Euro tops offer a firmer type of relief and are a better fit for sleepers who want gentle contouring with more support. Heavier sleepers often prefer this denser structure for long-term comfort.
3. Edge Support
Euro tops offer stronger edge support due to their flush, built-in design. This helps prevent sinking or sliding when sitting or sleeping near the edge.
Pillow tops are softer around the perimeter and may lose shape over time, making the edges feel less stable.
4. Motion Isolation
Euro tops tend to absorb movement better, which is ideal if you share a bed with a partner who tosses and turns.
Pillow tops still offer some motion control, but the softer build may transfer more movement across the surface.
5. Durability
Euro tops generally last longer thanks to their dense materials and reinforced stitching. They hold their shape better and resist sagging over time.
Pillow tops can flatten or shift with regular use, especially if made from lower-density foams or fibres.
6. Budget
Pillow tops are usually more budget-friendly and often found in entry-level or mid-range models.
Euro tops may come at a higher price, but offer better longevity and performance in the long run.
Tips for Caring for Your Mattress
Whether you choose a pillow top or a Euro top, a little maintenance goes a long way when it comes to comfort and longevity.
Use a Mattress Protector
A good mattress protector keeps out sweat, spills, and dust mites, which can wear down the top layer over time.
Rotate It Regularly
Every three to six months, rotate your mattress from head to foot. This helps even out wear, especially for pillow tops that are more prone to sagging in high-pressure spots.
Avoid Sitting on the Edges
Sitting on the edge every day can weaken the sides, particularly in pillow top models. Try to avoid using the edge as a seat if you want to maintain shape and support.
Follow Cleaning Instructions
Always check the care label. Some pillow tops with removable covers can be spot-cleaned or washed, while Euro tops are best cleaned with a vacuum and mild fabric cleaner.
Invest in a Supportive Bed Base
A sturdy bed frame or base helps extend the life of your mattress by improving airflow and providing proper support underneath.
Final Verdict
Choosing between a Euro top vs a pillow top mattress comes down to how you like your sleep.
Some prefer a softer, cloud-like feel while others want cushioning with a bit more structure. Both have their strengths, and the right pick depends on your comfort needs and sleep habits.
If you’re leaning toward plush, the Ecosa AeroLux Mattress offers that pillowy feel without giving up on support. Pair it with our breathable bedding and mattress protectors to create a sleep setup that’s soft, cool, and built to last.