Mattress shopping can be confusing. Between all the bold claims, catchy names and buzzwords, it’s easy to get swept up in what sounds good rather than what actually feels right.
One term you’ve probably come across more than once? The pillow top mattress.
It’s often sold as the softer, comfier alternative. The kind that promises cloud-like sleep and pressure relief. But is it really that simple?
Key Takeaways
- A pillow top mattress adds a soft, cushioned layer to the top of a standard mattress, making it a great option for side and combo sleepers who need pressure relief without losing support.
- While pillow top mattresses are popular, they’re not for everyone. Stomach sleepers for example may find it too soft.
- Not ready to replace your whole bed? A pillow top mattress topper can offer a similar level of comfort without the full commitment.
In this blog we’ll break down what pillow top mattresses actually are, how they’re built and what kind of sleepers they suit best.
We’ll also walk through the pros and cons so you know what to expect before making a decision. No marketing fluff. Just the facts that matter.
Jump to a section:
- What Is a Pillow Top Mattress?
- Benefits of Pillow Top Mattresses
- Drawbacks You Should Know
- How to Choose the Right Pillow Mattress
- Is a Pillow Top Mattress Worth It?
What Is a Pillow Top Mattress?
A pillow top mattress is similar to a regular mattress, however they contain an extra layer, usually made of soft materials like memory foam, latex, cotton or fibre fill.
This extra layer is often stitched right on top, however some pillow top mattresses come with zippers or can be removed, giving you more flexibility.
But don’t let the name throw you. There’s no separate pillow involved. The “pillow” part simply refers to how the top layer looks and feels.
Compared to a standard mattress, the biggest difference is the added padding.
Traditional innerspring or foam mattresses often focus on firmness and structure. A pillow top shifts the experience by softening the surface while still using the same supportive base underneath.
If you’re after that kind of comfort, our AeroLux Mattress offers it in a softer, cooler way. It pairs a plush pillow top with hybrid support underneath to keep you cushioned without losing structure.
So, What Is a Pillow Top Mattress Topper?
A pillow top mattress topper is a soft, padded layer you place on top of your current mattress to add comfort. It’s usually made from foam, fibre or latex and can be strapped in or simply tucked under your fitted sheet.
Many people turn to these toppers when they want to make a mattress softer without committing to something brand new. It gives you that hotel-bed vibe, especially if the surface needs a little more give.
Benefits of Pillow Top Mattresses
There’s a reason people keep coming back to pillow tops. They’re comfy, versatile and can make a big difference to how you sleep.
Here’s what makes them worth considering:
1. Instant comfort without the wait
The top layer adds that soft, plush feel the moment you lie down. You won’t need to “break it in” like other mattresses. It’s comfortable from night one.
2. Great for side sleepers
If you sleep on your side, your hips and shoulders take most of the pressure. The extra cushioning in a pillow top helps soften those spots, so you’re less likely to wake up stiff or sore.
Pair it with a supportive side sleeper pillow and you’ve got a setup that keeps your spine aligned and your body happy.
3. A softer bed without losing support
You still get the structure underneath, but the surface is more forgiving. It’s the best of both worlds: soft on top, solid underneath.
4. Looks as good as it feels
Pillow top mattresses tend to have a more quilted, luxurious look. That cushioned finish can make your whole bed feel a bit more high-end, even if the price isn’t.
5. Budget-friendly luxury
Compared to full latex or high-end memory foam mattresses, pillow tops often hit a sweet spot. They give you comfort and style without blowing the budget.
Drawbacks You Should Know
Pillow top mattresses have plenty going for them, but they’re not for everyone. Here are a few things to keep in mind before committing:
1. The top layer can wear out faster
That plush comfort is great in the beginning, but it may start to flatten or sag over time, especially if you tend to sleep in the same spot every night. Once the top loses its loft, the mattress might not feel as supportive.
2. Might feel too soft for some
If you like a firm sleeping surface, a pillow top might not cut it. Stomach sleepers in particular may find their hips sink in too much, which can throw off alignment and lead to discomfort.
3. Not easy to flip or refresh
Most pillow tops are built into one side, which means you can’t flip the mattress to extend its life. And rotating it only goes so far when the softness wears unevenly.
How to Choose the Right Pillow Mattress
Not all pillow tops are made the same, and what feels dreamy to one sleeper might feel all wrong to another. Here’s what to think about before buying:
Check the materials
Some pillow tops are made with memory foam, others with fibre, latex or a blend. Memory foam offers more contouring, while fibre-fill tends to feel lighter and fluffier. If you sleep hot, look for breathable materials or gel-infused foam.
Know your sleep style
Side sleepers usually enjoy pillow tops the most thanks to the pressure relief. Back sleepers might like them too, especially if the base mattress still offers enough support. Stomach sleepers should be a bit more cautious. If the top is too soft, your hips may sink out of alignment.
| Sleeper Type | Compatibility with Pillow Top Mattresses |
| Side Sleepers | ✅ Excellent for pressure relief |
| Back Sleepers | ✅ Good if base is supportive |
| Stomach Sleepers | ⚠️ Can be too soft, depends on firmness |
| Combo Sleepers | ✅ Comfortable for shifting positions |
Test the base support
The pillow top adds comfort, but the real support comes from what’s underneath. Whether it’s an innerspring or hybrid, make sure the core feels stable and matches your firmness preference.
Look at the construction
Some pillow tops are sewn into the mattress permanently, while others come as zip-off layers. If you like to change things up or want easier cleaning, a removable topper could be a smart pick.
Don’t forget the return policy
Even if it looks great in pictures or in the shop, you won’t really know until you’ve slept on it. Look for brands that offer at least a 100-night trial. That way, you get time to settle in and decide if it’s actually working for you without the pressure to commit right away.
Is a Pillow Top Mattress Worth It?
Yes. A pillow top mattress is worth it if you want extra comfort without losing support. It’s a great fit for side and combo sleepers who need pressure relief but don’t want to sink too far in.
It won’t work for everyone. If you need a firmer feel or want something that stays the same for years, another style might be a better fit. But for many sleepers, that extra bit of cushioning is exactly what’s been missing.
Looking to try it for yourself? Our AeroLux Mattress gives you that cloud-like feel with supportive, breathable layers underneath. Or go with our pillow top mattress topper to soften your current setup without changing your whole bed.