Most people have heard of the traditional types of mattress (innerspring, latex, memory foam, etc.), but what about pillowtop mattresses?
Have you tried one out? Have you ever heard of them before?
They come with all sorts of promises, like adding extra padding and improved comfort, but how do you look after them? Can you clean them in the same way, and can you flip a pillowtop mattress?
In this article, I'll break down all the facts so you can be fully armed with the knowledge you need to make an informed decision.
Contents
Pillowtop mattresses are a type of mattress that features an extra layer of cushioning at the top.
This layer is usually made from memory foam or latex and is designed to give you additional comfort when sleeping.
The main advantage of pillowtop mattresses is that they can be incredibly comfortable if you dislike traditional mattresses' feel.
They also provide extra support, which can sometimes help if you suffer from back pain. This is because the extra cushioning at the top helps to reduce pressure points in your body.
You can flip a pillowtop mattress in theory, but it's not usually a good idea.
The reasons why I do not recommend flipping pillowtop mattresses include the following.
If you want a mattress that is designed to be flipped, consider buying a double-sided mattress instead.
A double-sided mattress has layers of cushioning at the top and the bottom. That means it can be flipped over, as both sides are designed to be slept on.
Some brands feature a firmer layer on one side and a softer layer on the other.
One example is the Latex For Less Organic Mattress, which is a solid latex mattress with a medium side and a firm side.
It's one of the products we recommend in our sustainable mattress guide.
These mattresses are an excellent choice if you're unsure what firmness you need (or for a bed in a guest room that many people with different sleep styles and needs will use).
No, they are not the same, although they're very similar.
While both feature an added layer of cushioning at the top, the amount and type of padding differ.
Pillowtop mattresses usually have thicker and softer padding layers made from memory foam or latex. The padding layer is stitched directly on top of the mattress, giving a pillowtop mattress a layered look.
Euro top mattresses usually have thinner layers of cotton or foam, giving a firmer sleep experience. The layer of padding is sewn flush with the edge of the mattress, resulting in a more streamlined look.
You should rotate most pillowtop mattresses 180 degrees every few months instead of flipping them.
This will help even out the wear and tear over time, as parts won't become more worn down than others.
Like any other mattress, you should regularly vacuum your pillowtop mattress to remove dust and dirt.
Ensure you go over all sides of the mattress, including the edges.
If your pillowtop mattress gets stained, make sure to spot-clean it as soon as possible.
To do this, use a solution of water and mild dish soap. If the stain persists, use a small amount of vinegar or baking soda instead.
Be sure to rinse off any product after you've used it, and never saturate pillowtop mattresses with liquid.
Mattress protectors or pads are the best way to prevent stains or liquids from penetrating your mattress.
An organic waterproof mattress protector helps keep any mattress in good shape for years without exposing you to harmful chemicals.
Mattress toppers and plywood supports are two ways to make a mattress feel firmer.
Check out my How to Make a Soft Mattress Firmer article for more tips on boosting mattress firmness.
Mattress toppers, pads, or even better bedding can make your mattress feel softer.
My How to Sleep on A Hard Mattress article has more ideas to soften up your mattress.
Removing the pillowtop layer from a mattress is generally not recommended, as this could damage or reduce its lifespan.
Consider adding an organic mattress topper if you'd like a different sleeping experience.
Yes. You can fix some sagging issues as long as your mattress is not excessively worn.
Check out Arabella's how to fix mattress indentation article for more details.
Mattresses are no longer flippable because one-sided designs usually provide superior support, comfort, and durability compared to two-sided models.
Additionally, many newer mattress materials (like specific layers of memory foam and latex) don't respond well to flipping.
While any bedding or sheets will work, for maximum comfort and a good night's sleep, you'll want to get the best quality you can afford and avoid synthetic materials wherever possible.
I recommend high-quality, eco-friendly sheets and bedding that are designed to fit thick mattresses.
Look for deep-pocket or extra-deep pocket sheets that can fit around the pillowtop layers of your mattress. Additionally, you may want to look for sheets made from natural, breathable materials like bamboo.
Bed bugs can live in any type of mattress (and most bedroom furniture). However, it's less likely that they’ll make their way into your pillowtop mattress because its thicker layers of padding and cushioning typically impede their movement.
Inspecting your mattress regularly and taking preventive measures against infestations is still essential.
Although it's not recommended to flip a pillowtop mattress in most situations (why buy a soft-topped mattress only to flip it and sleep on the firm base?), you should rotate it every few months to extend its lifespan.
To keep your pillowtop mattress in good shape, vacuum regularly, spot clean any accidental stains as soon as possible, and use a mattress protector.
If you're looking for a firmer or softer sleep experience, consider adding the extra layer of a mattress topper.
With the proper care and maintenance, your pillowtop mattress can provide you with years of comfortable sleep…without needing to be flipped.
Do you sleep on a pillow-top mattress? Or do you prefer something more basic, like a memory foam mattress? Drop me a line and let me know.
