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A good night’s sleep is not just a luxury but a critical component of maintaining overall health and well-being. The quality of our sleep can directly impact our health, including cognitive function, mood, and even physical strength and balance [1] National Institute on Aging. A Good Night’s Sleep. Nov. 3, 2020. Found on the internet at https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/sleep/good-nights-sleep . To make sleep easier, pillow-top mattresses are often recommended for older adults. In fact, Shandy Grady, DC, a chiropractor in Centennial, Colorado, told us, “I always recommend pillow-top mattresses for my older patients. The additional layer of padding provides a softer feel and extra cushioning, which can be particularly beneficial for those experiencing joint pain or arthritis.”
Pillow-top mattresses are designed to distribute weight evenly and reduce pressure pointsⓘ The parts of the sleeper’s body that are in direct contact with the mattress, such as the backside, shoulder, hips, and ribcage. 1, allowing for a more comfortable, uninterrupted sleep. As joints and muscles become more susceptible to pain with age, the soft, adaptive surface of a pillow top can make a substantial difference. These mattresses are designed to offer immediate comfort and maintain their supportive properties over time. [2] MedlinePlus. Aging Changes in the Bones, Muscles, Joints. July 21, 2022. Found on the internet at https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/004015.htm# . By investing in a high-quality pillow-top mattress, older adults can gain the dual benefits of enhanced sleep and improved physical health. Yet, finding the right mattress that provides both comfort and support is not always straightforward. Below, learn more about our recommendations for the best pillow-top mattresses.
We found several important factors when testing pillow-top mattresses including:
A pillow-top mattress should gently hug the body, while still maintaining neutral spine alignment with the appropriate level of support for your body type and preferred sleeping position.
Pillow-tops contain cushioning materials, like memory foam, latex, and wool, and may include phase change material or gel-infused foam to contribute to the cooling capabilities of the mattress.
Even weight distribution and a cushioning pillow top work together to prevent build up of pressure at points prone to pain, like the shoulders, hips, neck, and lower back.
Support foam, cooling materials, and a plush pillow-top are features we feel promote comfort in the best pillow-top mattresses.
The Helix Midnight Luxe is our favorite pick for those seeking a blend of comfort and support. With its plush quilted pillow top and breathable TENCELⓘ A brand of lyocell fiber made from wood pulp that’s known for being soft, breathable, and absorbent. cover, this mattress not only feels luxurious but also excels in cooling performance, a crucial feature for those who sleep hot. The added option of a GlacioTex cooling cover further enhances this benefit, ensuring an undisturbed and cool night’s sleep.
Beneath the surface, the Helix Midnight Luxe is made with layers of memory foam and high-grade polyfoam that contour the body, providing a substantial level of pressure relief without the feeling of sinking too deeply. This setup offers a cozy, enveloping feel, as our testers noted they felt more “in” than “on” the mattress, appreciating the cushioned comfort that provides support yet allows for easy mobility.
The core of the mattress is made with a zoned layer of individually wrapped coils that enhance targeted support, particularly beneficial for critical areas such as the lower back. Testers found this feature supportive for various sleep positions, noting that whether they were on their back, side, or stomach, the mattress adapted well to their body contours, offering consistent support and comfort.
Edge support on the Helix Midnight Luxe is impressive, scoring 4.5 out of 5 in our tests. This strong performance means sleeping near the edge won’t result in a sensation of rolling off, and it makes getting in and out of bed easier. It’s worth mentioning that the mattress did not score impressively in motion transfer, rated at 2 out of 5, which could make this mattress a less-than-ideal choice for those who share a bed.
Overall, the Helix Midnight Luxe represents an excellent blend of plush comfort and deep, responsive support. Our testers loved how the soft pillow top, adaptive memory foam, and supportive coils worked together harmoniously, effectively accommodating all sleep positions.
“I found the pillow-top very soft with a responsive surface underneath. I think this would be great for stomach sleeping due to the responsive surface below the pillow-top, but the pillow-top also offers a great amount of pressure relief for back and side sleepers.”
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The Helix Midnight Luxe mattress gets 4.4 out of 5 stars on its website, with more than 6,400 reviews. Many reviewers mentioned how this mattress provides a balance of support and cushion. Others shared that the mattress is softer than its medium-firm brand rating.
“We couldn’t be more please with this mattress. It’s comfy and perfectly supportive. I prefer a firmer mattress and my partner prefers softer mattresses and this strikes the perfect balance. I do feel like mattress also helps me sleep a little cooler.”
– Thom S., verified buyer on 9/29/24
“We absolutely love our mattress! It’s the perfect balance of support and cloud like cushioning. My husband likes a firm mattress and I prefer something softer and it’s been the perfect blend.”
– Jennifer C., verified buyer on 9/17/24
Visit our Helix Midnight Luxe mattress review to learn more.
The WinkBed mattress stands out as an exceptional mattress for back pain, offering a unique blend of comfort and targeted support. In our Reviews Team’s mattress survey, 59% of our 600 respondents identified low back pain as their primary concern. The WinkBed’s design is specifically tailored to address this common issue.
This mattress features a luxurious quilted pillow top with layers of hypersoft foam and gel-infused foam. These materials provide instant softness and a cooling effect, a notable advantage over traditional memory foam mattresses, which tend to retain heat. Beneath this plush surface, The WinkBed uses a sophisticated coil-on-coil system. The top layer of micro-coils offers responsive contouring, while the deeper-pocketed coils ensure deep compression support that significantly enhances spinal alignment. The base of the mattress is made from high-density foam that adds durability and stability.
While this mattress comes in four firmness options (softer, luxury firm, firmer, or plus), we tested the luxury firm model, with a firmness rating of 6.5 out of 10—firm enough to support the spine but soft enough to provide comfort in most sleep positions. Our testing revealed strong overall support with a score of 4 out of 5, which is crucial for avoiding back pain. The mattress also excels in cooling, scoring a high score of 4 out of 5. It also has good edge support and minimal motion transfer, making it suitable for couples and those who may sit or sleep near the edge of the bed.
Our testers reported feeling comfortably cradled by the mattress, noting that while there is a slight initial give due to the plush top, the support from the innerspring coils quickly comes into play, preventing any feeling of being stuck. This responsive bounce aids in movement, allowing sleepers to easily switch positions. The pressure relief capabilities of the mattress were particularly impressive, leading to exceptional spinal alignment and pressure reduction for side and back sleepers.
“I feel like I am sleeping on, not in, the bed, but The WinkBed still provides a little bit of a contour. I experienced a gentle cradle, but was met with firmness as I sink in slightly.”
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The WinkBed mattress gets 4.8 out of 5 stars on its website, with more than 8,900 reviews. Many reviewers mentioned the bed’s balance of firmness and softness after sleeping on this mattress. Others shared that the bed was firmer than they expected.
“I had tried another top rated brand luxury firm mattress and it was like sleeping on the floor, so hard and uncomfortable. My Wink mattress provides the firmness I need, larger guy and a side sleeper, with just the right amount of top layer softness. With the previous mattress I had shoulder and overall back and joint pain and stiffness when I would wake up, with the Wink mattress, this has disappeared. Very happy with my Wink mattress!!”
– Rod H., verified buyer on 10/31/24
“After considerable research I found the WinkBed, and we both loved it immediately. We’re both side sleepers, I’m 6’1” 240, she’s 5’9” 150, and the isolation is excellent as is the superior edge support. I do wish it had handles for easier turning, though, this thing is hefty!”
– Royal M., verified buyer on 10/23/24
Visit our WinkBed mattress review to learn more.
The DreamCloud Memory Foam mattress is the only all-foam mattress in this roundup and our top pick for the “Best Memory Foam Pillow-Top Mattress” because it blends the cradling comfort of foam with other luxurious features. This mattress starts with a plush, quilted memory foam pillow top that offers immediate comfort and a touch of luxury as soon as you lie down. The multiple layers of dense memory foam beneath the pillow top function to adapt to the body’s shape, significantly enhancing spinal alignment and reducing pressure points. This makes the mattress ideal for side and back sleepers as well as those with joint pain.
The foundation of the mattress is built with sturdy, high-density foam that not only supports the softer foam layers above but also ensures the mattress’s durability and structural integrity. This base is crucial in providing the overall supportive feel that our testers appreciate.
Our testers also found this mattress to have excellent motion isolation—perfect for couples. They noted minimal disturbance from partner movements, which is a significant advantage for those who share a bed.
Also, the cooling technology embedded in the memory foam layers works effectively to dissipate heat, keeping the sleep surface comfortably cool—beneficial for those who tend to sleep hot.
The mattress is not without its limitations, though. While it offers substantial support and pressure relief, the edge support is somewhat lacking. Testers experienced a bit of compression when sitting on the edge, which could be a concern for those who rely on a firmer edge to get in and out of bed. Despite this drawback, the overall comfort, support, and cooling features of the DreamCloud Memory Foam make it a standout choice for anyone looking for a memory foam mattress that offers more than just softness.
“On the DreamCloud Memory Foam, I feel my body is closer to ‘on’ the mattress instead of ‘in’ it, but the material of the pillow-top is mildly contouring to my lower back. This mattress seems to evenly distribute my weight, and my spine feels neutral.”
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The DreamCloud Memory Foam mattress has a website rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars and more than 8,900 reviews. Many reviewers mention how their back pain improved after sleeping on this mattress. Others shared that the delivery was slower than they had anticipated.
“Our old mattress was at least 15 years old. My wife loved it but my back was suffering. I was finally able to talk her into buying a new mattress and I now sleep comfortably like a baby! My back pain is nearly gone!”
– Jim C., verified buyer on 11/07/24
“The Dream Cloud memory foam mattress is very comfortable. It is not too hard or soft. It supports your body in all the right places. I was having terrible back pain after sleeping on a cheap Amazon brand foam mattress and I no longer have back pain in the morning with this mattress. I love this mattress!”
– Brenda F., verified buyer on 10/17/24
Visit our DreamCloud mattress review to learn more.
The Nolah Evolution is an excellent choice for those seeking a plush pillow-top mattress that does not compromise on support. At 15 inches high, the thickest mattress in our roundup combines luxurious softness with excellent durability and is designed to suit a variety of sleep preferences.
The Nolah Evolution’s comfort begins with a high-quality Euro-top, providing a plush, soft initial feel that enhances comfort immediately upon lying down. Below this layer, the mattress features AirFoamICE, an advanced foam designed to contour precisely to the body. This foam not only adapts to body shapes for enhanced comfort but also includes cooling effects to prevent overheating during sleep. A layer of high-resilience foam adds responsiveness and durability, supporting the body effectively without losing the plush feel that makes the mattress so inviting.
The Nolah Evolution includes a zoned and pocketed coil system, which focuses support on key areas like the lower back, enhancing spinal alignment and reducing motion transfer—a feature couples will appreciate. The dense foam base under the coil system adds stability and longevity.
The Nolah Evolution comes in three firmness options. We tested the luxury firm model, which falls at the softer end of the industry standard for firm, with a rating of 7 out of 10. This is ideal for those who like a plush top but still need firm underlying support. It provides robust overall support, scoring a 4 out of 5, particularly beneficial for back and side sleepers. The edge support is impressive as well, with a 4.5 out of 5 rating, allowing full use of the mattress surface without significant compression at the edges.
Nolah Evolution’s cooling performance is rated at 3 out of 5, meaning it has moderate temperature regulation suitable for most environments. Motion isolation is decent, rated at 3.5 out of 5, and the mattress’s responsiveness, also at 3.5, facilitates movement while retaining its plush character. The pressure relief is exceptionally high at 4.75 out of 5, making it ideal for sleepers with joint pain.
Overall, the Nolah Evolution is a luxurious firm mattress that offers an excellent balance of comfort, support, and durability, which makes it a good excellent choice for those seeking a plush yet supportive mattress. Its ability to cater to different body types and sleep positions also makes it a versatile choice for couples with varying sleep preferences.
“Laying on the Nolah Evolution, I feel like I am both on and in this mattress, the combination of the two is pretty ideal. I sink slightly into the bed, which feels like a gentle hug.”
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The Nolah Evolution mattress gets 4.9 out of 5 stars on its website, with more than 900 reviews. Many reviewers mentioned how the plush pillow top is perfectly balanced by the mattress’s support. Others shared that changing positions in this mattress was a bit difficult.
“This mattress was perfect. It’s just the right amount of plush. I’m plus size and a side sleeper and don’t feel like I sink into that mattress at all. The shipping was simple and the setup was easy as well. Would buy from again next time I need a mattress.”
– Jolene, verified buyer on 8/25/24
“They said it was the best mattress for side sleepers. They were correct. My shoulder issues are a thing of the past. I also find myself falling asleep much quicker without the tossing and turning I was used to. Highly recommend for anyone who sleeps on their side.”
– Brett, verified buyer on 7/31/24
Visit our Nolah mattress review to learn more.
The Saatva Classic is known for its traditional innerspring feel that balances firm support with a generous amount of surface softness. This mattress is designed to cater to those who appreciate a firmer sleep surface without compromising on comfort.
Let’s first take a look at the Saatva Classic’s multi-layered construction. The pillow-top layer adds cushioning with a soft, welcoming feel. Below this, a strategically positioned thin layer of memory foam in the center third of the mattress boosts lower-back support, enhancing spinal alignment—an essential feature for back and stomach sleepers. This is complemented by a dual-coil system consisting of individually wrapped coils for contouring and a base of sturdy steel coils that reinforce the mattress’s overall stability and longevity.
In terms of performance, the Saatva Classic shines across many categories. While this mattress comes in three firmness options, we tested the luxury firm model, which ranks at a firmness level of 7 out of 10—ideal for those who need substantial support. In fact, it scored a perfect 5 out of 5 for overall support, which should translate to excellent body alignment throughout the night. The high-density foam encasement around the mattress’s perimeter boosts edge support significantly, with another perfect 5 out of 5 score. This not only allows full use of the mattress surface but also aids those who need a stable edge for easier mobility.
The mattress scores a 3 out of 5 for cooling, indicating decent temperature regulation, which might not suffice for very hot sleepers. The mattress’s coil construction leads to a bounce rating of 4 out of 5, offering responsive feedback that benefits combination sleepers who change positions frequently throughout the night. Saatva Classic does score lower in motion transfer though, with a 2 out of 5, which may be a concern for those with restless partners.
“I’m on the shorter side, so I need to scoot down to align with the zoned lumbar support. I like the support under my torso, but noticed a bit of pressure at my hips and shoulders.”
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The Saatva Classic mattress gets 4.8 out of 5 stars on its website, with more than 3,500 reviews. Many reviewers mentioned how comfortably they’ve slept since switching to the Saatva Classic. Others shared that they had difficulty with shipping and delivery arrangements.
“Received my mattress two weeks ago and must say it’s really comfortable. Needed no time to get used to it. Slept well from the first night. I’m a side sleeper, and the luxury firm is perfect. The delivery and set up, and taking away my old mattress and box spring, were quick and easy. Very nice delivery men. I love my new Saatva!”
– Barbara T., verified buyer on 9/13/24
“We’ve had our classic for 3 months. We knew after the first night that we WOULD NOT be taking advantage of the 365-day return policy. Every night, when we crawl into bed we talk about how comfortable and luxurious the bed feels. Get one! You won’t regret it.”
– Jean, verified buyer on 9/02/24
Visit our Saatva mattress review to learn more.
The Helix Dusk Luxe is an excellent choice for anyone in search of a cooling pillow-top mattress that marries comfort with effective temperature management. This mattress is specially designed for those who value a cool sleeping environment alongside supportive features.
Starting from the top, the Helix Dusk Luxe features a breathable TENCEL cover paired with a plush, quilted pillow top that provides a soft and inviting initial feel. Our testers appreciate the quality stitching and pillowy material that adds a touch of luxury. Beneath the surface, a layer of Helix Dynamic Foam, a latex-foam hybrid, contours to the body’s shape while remaining cool throughout the night—addressing the common issue of heat retention found in traditional memory foam mattresses.
The support structure of the mattress includes individually wrapped coils that not only aid in contouring but also enhance the overall airflow for temperature regulation. These coils provide a sturdy base for the foam layers, ensuring the mattress maintains its shape and support over time. A high-density foam base underlies the coil system, reinforcing the mattress’s structural integrity and longevity.
In terms of performance, our testers found that the Helix Dusk Luxe leans on the softer end of the industry’s firmness scale with a rating of 7 out of 10, making it suitable for a broad range of sleep preferences. As expected, the mattress excels in cooling, achieving a high rating of 4.5 out of 5, thanks to the combination of breathable materials and a coil system that promotes air circulation.
While edge support is rated at 3.5 out of 5, which may not fully satisfy higher-weight sleepers or those who need strong edge support for easier mobility, it provides adequate support for most sleepers.
Bounce is a notable feature, with the mattress scoring a high 4.5 out of 5. This level of responsiveness is beneficial for combination sleepers and those with limited mobility. Our tester said, “Even though it’s a plush top, it’s very responsive. You can feel the springs assist my movement. I don’t fight the material at all.”
Pressure relief is another area where the Helix Dusk Luxe shines, scoring 4.5 out of 5. This is a particular plus for side sleepers and those with joint pain, as the mattress provides substantial relief at pressure points. Our testers remarked that the zoned coil support was most comfortable for side sleeping, although individual experiences may vary depending on body type.
“I like that the mattress surface is keeping up with my position changes. It is so easy to move, there is no fighting with the material. The springs seem to help through the adjustments, but it feels like natural movement. Even though it is a plush top, it is very responsive.”
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The Helix Dusk Luxe mattress gets 4.4 out of 5 stars on its website, with over 1,300 reviews. Many reviewers mentioned how easy the shipping and delivery process was with Helix. Others shared that the mattress seems to trap heat.
“Prior to sleeping on the Helix Dusk Deluxe I was experiencing back stiffness every morning. Since I have been sleeping on it for a few months, that stiffness has gone away and I wake up more refreshed. I added the cool topper to the mattress which keeps the bed cool and makes for more comfortable sleeping.”
– Carolyn P., verified buyer on 5/13/24
“By far the best mattress I have purchased. It is so comforting to sleep on. I paid for the extra cooling and it is worth it. My body temp runs hot and I don’t have the night sweats as I have with previous mattresses. I recently stayed in a very nice hotel. While the bed was comfortable, it wasn’t my Helix mattress and I missed my bed while on vacation. The hybrid technology is definitely the way to go. I feel embraced yet I don’t feel stuck while laying in bed compared to the immovability of foam mattresses.”
– Michael B., verified buyer on 4/24/24
Read more about this mattress in our Helix Dusk Luxe review.
The Bear Elite Hybrid is one of the best mattresses for side sleepers, thanks to its thoughtful design that focuses on providing optimal pressure relief and maintaining spinal alignment. According to our survey, side sleepers make up nearly half of all sleepers, and this mattress is crafted to meet their specific needs.
The Bear Elite Hybrid features a plush pillow top with cooling gel-infused foam, offering both a comfortable, soft feel and effective temperature regulation. The support layers beneath include performance foam that provides gentle, zoned support. This foam adapts to the body’s contours, providing more support where it’s needed and less where it isn’t. This is underlined by a base of pocketed coils, which not only adds to the mattress’s overall stability and durability but also contributes to its moderate bounce, facilitating ease of movement for sleepers.
We tested the medium-firm option (it also comes in soft or firm), which we rated at a 6.5 out of 10, striking a balance that many side sleepers will find just right. The mattress offers substantial pressure relief, scoring a perfect 5 out of 5 in this area, which benefits side sleepers by reducing pressure points at critical areas such as the hips and shoulders.
Despite its many strengths, the mattress has average edge support, with a score of 3 out of 5, and may not be the best choice for those who frequently sit on the edge of their bed or have difficulty getting in and out of bed. Its motion isolation is rated at 3.5 out of 5, providing enough reduction in disturbance from partner movement for most couples.
The Bear Elite Hybrid is appreciated for its versatility in accommodating different body types and sleep positions. Although it excels for back and side sleepers, higher-weight individuals or those who prefer stomach sleeping might find the medium option less supportive and may opt for the firmer version of this mattress. Our testers noted the high-quality, luxurious feel of the mattress, highlighting its beautifully designed surface and the responsive nature that aids in changing positions without feeling stuck.
“I feel like I’m laying closer to the surface. The cover has some give to it and is pushing up against my back, which is nice, it is definitely molding to my body.”
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The Bear Elite Hybrid mattress gets 4.6 out of 5 stars on its website, with more than 3,900 reviews. Many reviewers mentioned their back pain improved after switching to the Bear Elite Hybrid. Others shared that the customer service department at Bear can be slow to respond.
“So far, we love our Bear Mattress. It’s the right level of firmness and, as promised, I don’t sleep hot. I also love the frame we bought with the mattress through Bear. It’s good quality and just what we were looking for. I highly recommend the Bear Elite Hybrid.”
Emily W., verified buyer on 9/08/24
“Great mattress! I had been having some back problems and after a few weeks on my new mattress, no back issues! I sleep on my back and side, and think it’s perfect for both.”
– Isabelle F., verified buyer on 8/23/24
Visit our Bear mattress review to learn more.
Our survey found that price was the most important consideration for new mattress shoppers. While all-foam mattresses tend to be less expensive than hybrids due to the expense of steel coils, the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid is the least expensive hybrid mattress in this review. It delivers exceptional value, combining comfort, support, and quality at a price accessible to a wide range of shoppers. It stands out as a top choice for those seeking a quality pillow-top mattress without the luxury price tag.
The Signature Hybrid features a quilted pillow top that provides a plush layer of comfort immediately upon lying down. Below this, proprietary foams deliver responsive contouring that adapts seamlessly to body movements, striking a balance between comfort and support. The core of the mattress is made up of individually encased Ascension steel coils. These coils not only enhance airflow to keep the mattress cool but also provide targeted support across the mattress, which is essential for maintaining proper spinal alignment.
The Signature Hybrid comes in three firmness options: soft, medium, and firm. We tested the medium model, which offers a softer side of medium feel, rated at 6 out of 10. This level of firmness makes it a popular choice among a broad spectrum of sleepers. The mattress provides adequate overall support for most sleep positions and body types, scoring a 3.5 out of 5. However, those who weigh more than 250 pounds might find they need a firmer, more supportive option.
While the mattress offers fair edge support and moderate motion isolation—scoring 3 out of 5 in both categories—it may not be ideal for those who require stronger edge support or for couples who are very sensitive to partner movement.
Its cooling capabilities are modest, with a score of 2 out of 5, which could be a concern for hot sleepers. But it excels in pressure relief, scoring a 4 out of 5, making it particularly beneficial for side sleepers who need to ease pressure points around the hips and shoulders. It also has excellent responsiveness (4 out of 5), allowing easy mobility across the mattress surface. This feature, along with its significant pressure relief, makes it suitable for a variety of sleep positions and preferences. For older adults or those with mobility concerns, the firmer model of this mattress may offer better support and ease of movement.
“I feel like I am more ‘on’ than ‘in’ this mattress, but I sink into the quilted top which gives a superficial hammock feeling. It feels nice, like a gentle cradle.”
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The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid mattress gets 4.7 out of 5 stars on its website, with over 10,000 reviews. Many reviewers mentioned how sleeping on the bed has helped reduce their aches and pains. Others shared that the mattress seems softer than its marketed firmness level.
“Great mattress. Immediately noticed the support in my lower back. Got the medium firm with the pillow top. Offers great support with added comfort. Definitely feel like I am sleeping “in” the bed and not “on” it, but offers no resistance if I want to roll over, like foam mattresses I have had in the past. Would recommend to anyone!”
– Loren S., verified buyer on 9/29/24
“Very comfortable on my old bones. Has the extra layer of foam which I highly recommend because it keeps you cooler and adds a bit of cushioning.”
– Leo C., verified buyer on 8/14/24
Visit our Brooklyn Bedding mattress review to learn more.
Our Reviews Team has spent over 2,000 hours researching more than 100 mattress models, looking closely at their cost and features, to gain an understanding of which brands offer the best pillow-top mattresses. We surveyed 1,200 mattress owners, read countless reviews on third-party websites, and consulted with experts to get a clear idea of what is most important in a new mattress.
We also mystery shop mattresses, conducting hands-on testing so we have experience with every mattress we include in a round-up. A standardized, 42-question testing form guides our testing, allowing us to evaluate each model across a number of categories, including pressure relief, firmness, and cooling capabilities. We also compare the costs of mattresses and brand policies to determine which models provide the most value. Using our testing results, we rate the mattresses in each testing category and then weigh those scores to create a weighted overall rating for each model.
These factors include:
Each mattress is rated on 1 to 10 scale. One represents an extra soft mattress and 10 an extra firm mattress. Each person has their own firmness needs, and mattress firmness is typically a subjective experience. We had our testers compare their experience with each mattress with the brand’s firmness rating to see if the two matched up.
We take note of the weight distribution provided by each mattress, paying attention to pressure build-up at the joints. We also use a pressure mat to measure pressure relief. This is an important comfort factor for all sleepers, and a good pillow-top can contribute to the pressure relieving qualities of a mattress.
Pillow-tops can help or hinder the temperature regulation of a mattress, depending on the materials used. We use a thermal gun to measure the temperature of the mattresses we test before and after spending five minutes on the bed. Anything less than a 7.2 increase in temperature is considered to be excellent temperature regulation.
To learn more about our testing, review our sleep methodology.
We continuously test new mattresses each month and make sure we give you the most up-to-date information possible. Using standardized testing, we evaluate each mattress independently in categories like support, affordability, and pressure relief, before comparing it to the other models we’ve tested and reviewed.
A pillow-top mattress features an additional layer of padding sewn directly on top of the mattress base, effectively creating a surface that combines plush comfort with underlying support. This top layer is distinguished from other mattress types by its visual “pillow” appearance, standing out as a separate, thick layer added on top of the core mattress structure. Pillow tops can be crafted from a variety of materials, enhancing the mattress’s feel and functionality. Common materials used include:
Double-sided pillow-top mattresses take the concept of luxury and comfort a step further by featuring the plush pillow top layer on both sides of the mattress. This design allows users to flip the mattress periodically, promoting even wear and extending the mattress’s lifespan. The dual-sided feature is especially beneficial for those seeking longevity in their mattress investment and who enjoy the consistent, soft feel of a pillow top. With materials like foam, latex, or fibers on both sides, these mattresses can be ideal for sleepers who value a soft, cushioned feel throughout the mattress’s useful life, providing a luxurious sleep experience night after night.
While euro pillow tops and classic pillow tops add cushion to a mattress, they differ in how they accomplish this goal. More specifically, a classic pillow top is attached to the top of the mattress, while a euro pillow top is inside the mattress, at the surface, with a cover sewn on top.
Classic and euro pillow tops serve the same purpose in a mattress. Purchasing a mattress with a pillow top is a good way to get extra cushioning from your mattress without sacrificing support.
When selecting a pillow-top mattress, several factors come into play to ensure you find the right match for your sleep needs. These features can greatly impact comfort, support, and overall sleep quality.
The firmness of a pillow-top mattress affects how the mattress feels as soon as you lie down on it. It’s important to choose a firmness level that suits your typical sleeping position. Softer pillow tops may be ideal for side sleepers who need pressure relief at the shoulders and hips, while firmer options could be better for back and stomach sleepers who need more support to keep the spine aligned.
The material used in the pillow top affects not only comfort but also mattress longevity and health benefits. Memory foam conforms closely to the body for better spinal alignment and pressure relief. Latex, being more responsive and breathable, offers a cooler sleep surface and is durable. Fibers like cotton and wool naturally regulate temperature and add a layer of softness.
For those who sleep hot, choosing a pillow-top mattress with good temperature regulation is key. Look for materials like gel-infused foam or breathable natural fibers like cotton and wool in the pillow top. These materials help dissipate heat and provide a cooler sleeping surface, enhancing comfort throughout the night.
What you need from a mattress to sleep comfortably depends heavily on personal preferences, including your preferred sleep position. Here’s a look at how each sleep position changes what you need from a mattress:
While pillow tops are primarily for comfort, the support they provide is also important. Consider mattresses that combine a pillow top with a supportive base layer, such as innerspring or reinforced foam, to ensure deep compression support and overall stability. This is particularly important for higher-weight people or those with back pain.
The durability of a pillow-top mattress depends on the quality of materials used in both the pillow top and the underlying layers. Higher-density foams and resilient materials like latex tend to last longer and offer better long-term support and comfort.
If you often sit on the edge of the bed or have difficulty getting in and out of bed, edge support is an important factor to consider. Some pillow-top mattresses incorporate reinforced edges to prevent sagging and maintain structural integrity around the perimeter of the mattress. Hybrid mattresses tend to have stronger edge support than all-foam mattresses.
For those with allergies, a hypoallergenic pillow-top mattress can offer relief. Materials like latex are naturally resistant to dust mites and mold, and certain fibers can also minimize the presence of allergens. Opting for organic and all-natural hypoallergenic materials can also contribute to a cleaner, healthier sleep environment. Our best organic mattresses review features mattresses made with health-conscious materials.
The cost of a pillow-top mattress can vary widely based on several factors including the quality of materials, the brand, the size, and additional features like cooling technologies or eco-friendly certifications. All-foam mattresses are less expensive than hybrids because steel coils are pricey. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $350 for an all-foam twin-size model to over $3,000 for a large luxury pillow-top mattress. The size of the mattress significantly influences the price, as do advanced technologies or premium materials such as organic latex or proprietary foams.
A little bit of research and shopping around can help save money on a mattress purchase. Try these strategies:
| Price | $1,373–$2,873 | $1,149–$2,199 | $839–$2,178 | $1,499–$3,198 | $1,395–$2,990 | $1,373–$2,873 | $1,893–$3,920 | $665–$1,664 |
| Material | Hybrid | Hybrid | Foam | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid | Hybrid |
| Mattress height (inches) | 13.5 | 13.5 | 12 | 15 | 11.5 or 14.5 | 13.5 | 14 | 12.25 |
| Firmness | Medium | Softer, luxury firm, firmer, or plus | Medium | Firm | Plush, soft, luxury firm, or firm | Firm | Soft, medium, or firm | Soft, medium, or firm |
| Warranty (years) | 15 | Lifetime | Lifetime | Lifetime | Lifetime | 15 | Lifetime | 10 |
| Trial period (nights) | 100 | 120 | 365 | 120 | 365 | 100 | 120 | 120 |
For older adults seeking the best pillow-top mattress, our review covers a range of top picks tailored to various needs and preferences. The Helix Midnight Luxe stands out for overall excellence, while The WinkBed shines in easing back pain. The DreamCloud Memory Foam is our favorite all-foam option and is notable for its superior motion isolation, and the Nolah Evolution offers plush comfort with cooling technology.
The Saatva Classic provides firm support with a comfortable pillow top, and the Helix Dusk Luxe is excellent for keeping sleepers cool. The Bear Elite Hybrid is perfect for side sleepers who need pressure relief, and the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid offers great value with quality materials at an affordable price. Each mattress is designed to enhance sleep quality through features like zoned support, cooling technologies, and high levels of pressure relief, ensuring a restful night for every type of sleeper.
A pillow-top mattress features an additional layer of padding stitched on top of the mattress base, giving it a plush, cushioned surface. This top layer is often made from materials like foam, latex, natural fibers, or gel, which enhances the comfort and contouring properties of the mattress. The design provides a luxurious feel, distinguishing it from standard mattresses by offering an extra layer of softness combined with underlying support.
Higher-weight sleepers who weigh more than 250 pounds might find a pillow-top mattress does not provide the necessary support needed for comfort and spinal alignment. The plush nature of pillow tops can lead to excessive sinking, which could strain back muscles and joints over time. For higher-weight sleepers, a firmer mattress with a thinner, more supportive pillow top layer might be a better option to ensure both comfort and adequate support. Alternatively, they may want to choose a mattress specifically designed for higher weights.
Yes, many pillow-top mattresses can be used with adjustable beds. In fact, older adults stand to benefit from this exact bedding configuration. The flexibility of the pillow top and the underlying mattress structure should accommodate bending and adjusting without compromising the integrity of the mattress. Memory foam and latex pillow tops are often more adaptable to the movements of an adjustable base. Always ensure that the mattress specifications indicate suitability for use with adjustable bases to avoid any damage or undue wear.
If a pillow-top is too plush, it may prevent spine alignment, which is an important factor for healthy sleep. Some pillow-tops made with memory foam or synthetic materials can also increase the temperature of sleeper, causing discomfort for those who tend to run hot.
Have questions about this review? Email us at reviewsteam@ncoa.org.
