Pillow top vs Eurotop Mattress

A Pillowtop mattress is basically any bed with an additional layer of padding at the top that provides extra cushioning and comfort. This layer can consist of different materials, but most models feature latex foam, fiber, or memory foam, delivering an instant softness. 

These mattresses are well-known for their ability to recreate the soft, “pillowy” feel of luxury hotel mattresses, with the top layer delivering an instant hit of plushness as soon as you lie on it. Like other types of mattresses, they come in different firmness levels to suit various sleep preferences and are also famous for their overall support and excellent temperature regulation.

Merits of Having a Pillowtop Mattress 

Generally, Pillowtop beds are known for their ultra plush and luxurious comfort. Other benefits that made us love Pillowtop mattresses include:

• Affordability: Compared to Eurotops, Pillowtops provide comfort and support at a pocket-friendly cost.
• Added comfort: Their extra cushioning offers great softness and a sink-in plush feel that makes it feel like you're resting on a cloud. 
• Movement isolation: Pillowtop mattresses greatly minimize motion isolation, thanks to the added layer between the upper mattress surface and the center of the bed. 
• Pressure point relief: Soft Pillowtops help distribute body weight evenly, minimizing pressure on sensitive body parts like the knees, hips, and shoulders. 

Demerits of Having a Pillowtop Mattress

If you're considering owning a Pillow top mattress, it's wise to weigh their potential drawbacks to decide whether they're the right choice for your needs. Here are some disadvantages to consider:

• Poor edge support: The extra cushioning of Pillowtop mattresses makes it hard for them to deliver good edge support. This can be a great concern, especially for sleepers who prefer sitting and sleeping close to the sides.
• Heat retention: Since Pillowtops are made of wool, memory foam, or fiberfill, they can easily reduce your bed's breathability and restrict airflow. This can cause the mattress to sleep hot, making it quite uncomfortable for strict hot sleepers.  

What is a Eurotop Mattress?.

A Eurotop bed is a type of mattress with an extra layer of padding, which is normally made of foam or fiber fills. However, unlike Pillowtop models, this type of mattress isn't directly sewn on the bed's surface. Instead, it's placed under the cover, blending with other mattress layers for a discreet look. That's why most Eurotops appear neatly stacked and flat, while Pillowtop mattresses seem more rounded.

These mattresses also feel a bit firmer around the sides, with more cushioning at the center of the bed. So, if you crave the plushness of a Pillowtop mattress but with a more stable and supportive structure, a Euro top mattress might work best for you. 

Merits of Having a Eurotop Mattress

Like Pillowtops, Euro top mattresses come with numerous benefits that enhance your sleep surface's comfort and durability. They include:

• Better edge support: Unlike Pillowtops, Eurotop mattresses deliver superior edge support thanks to their flush stitching. This can be really beneficial to sleepers who often sit on the sides or sleep close to the edge.
• Deliver a firmer and more supportive feel: Compared to Pillowtop mattresses, which offer sink-in plushness, Eurotops deliver sturdier support and a slightly firmer feel with minimal sinkage.
• Durability: Because Eurotop mattresses are sewn under the mattress cover, they tend to last longer and maintain their shape over time than Pillowtops
• Less shifting: Since Eurotops are in direct contact with your mattress layers, there will be less shifting when you change positions at night.

Demerits of Having a Eurotop Mattress

While Euro tops provide a sleek look and extra comfort, they also come with disadvantages you should consider before making a purchase decision. They include:

• Expensive: Eurotop mattresses are more costly than Pillowtops due to their premium materials, complex construction, and durability.
• Inferior contouring: Since Eurotop mattresses sit immediately beneath the mattress cover, they may not deliver the same body cushioning that Pillowtops do.

Pillow top vs Eurotop Mattress: The Key Differences

Still struggling to decide between these two luxury mattresses? Here are the key differences between Pillow top and Euro top mattresses to consider when shopping for a new mattress.

Appearance

We think the most noticeable difference between a Pillowtop and a Eurotop mattress is their appearance. Unlike a Eurotop, which is usually hidden under the mattress cover, a Pillowtop is sewn on top of the mattress. In fact, during testing, we could notice a gap between the cover and the Pillowtop.

Feel

Block out light

Another key difference worth noting is feel. Generally, Pillowtops are made to be used with firm mattresses, which is why they boast a sink-in and cloud-like softness. When we slept on it, we sank further into the surface, as there was no material or mattress layer between the cover and the add-on layer. This resulted in excellent contouring and pressure relief - an ideal combination for sleepers with painful pressure points. Overall, we can say that the underlying design and feel of your mattress will have a noticeable impact on the general feel of the surface than the add-on Pillowtop layer.

When it comes to Eurotops, they tend to be firmer around the sides of the mattress and softer in the center. This enables them to offer excellent edge support and prevent sinking, which creates more usable space on the surface. We can describe the feel of Eurotop mattresses as a blend of memory foam and innerspring mattresses. They provide the firmness of an innerspring mattress with the conforming properties of memory foam. Plus, Eurotops offer a slightly firmer feel, as their padding is sewn tightly beneath the mattress cover. This makes them a solid pick for stomach sleepers who need firm beds to keep their spines aligned. They're also suitable for heavyweight edge sleepers, as their firm feel around the sides can offer more support. 

Durability

While Pillowtop mattresses provide decent durability, they may have a shorter lifespan than Eurotops. Their additional padding layer tends to be softer and deliver a pillowy feel. However, this fluffy design comes with a disadvantage, as it can easily start to flatten out over time, leading to an uneven sleeping surface. Eurotops, on the other hand, use denser and firmer material, hence considered more durable than Pillowtop mattresses.

Their extra layer of padding adds buffer to normal wear and tear, meaning they can maintain their shape for years to come. So, if you’re looking for the most durable mattress among the two, we recommend opting for a Eurotop mattress. However, it's worth noting that other factors like frequency of use and maintenance can also influence the lifespan of any bedding. Frequently rotating or flipping (if recommended) your mattress can help extend its useful lifespan, ensuring a worthwhile investment. 

Motion Isolation 

When it comes to motion isolation, both Eurotops and Pillow tops are proficient in minimizing motion transfer across the surface. The only difference comes in the materials used and their construction. Pillowtop mattresses usually contain soft materials, like latex and memory foam, that provide a cushiony feel and some degree of motion isolation. However, they may not be as effective at reducing motion transfer as Eurotops due to the gap around the mattress edges where the add-on layer is attached.

Conversely, Eurotop mattresses feature denser materials that are way better at absorbing the sleeper's movements before they spread across the surface. And since the extra layer is sewn around the sides of the bed, it doesn't shift as much as Pillowtops, leading to a peaceful and undisturbed sleep. So, if you frequently toss and turn at night, you may be better off with a Eurotop mattress. 

Edge Support 

As earlier mentioned, Eurotop mattresses offer great edge support as they're firmer around the bed's perimeter. They're sewn flush with the mattress edges, which significantly helps maintain the shape around the outer perimeter. Pillowtops, on the other hand, tend to deliver slightly less edge support due to their unique design, which sits atop the surface rather than being integrated with the mattress layers and edges. Since the Pillowtop’s extra layer isn't as firm around the perimeter, you might feel less supported when sleeping or sitting at the edge of the mattress. 

Ease of Maintenance 

As mentioned earlier, Pillowtop mattresses have a visibly sewn padding layer to create a distinctive look. Since this layer is sewn onto the surface of the mattress, it may easily shift and lose shape over time. That's why Pillowtops need more maintenance to keep them in good condition. While a Eurotop mattress also features an extra layer of padding, it is built under the cover to give it a seamless appearance. This tucked-in design means your mattress is less likely to shift at night, making it easier to maintain over time.

Plus, the additional padding layer is often made of high-density foam or fiberfill, which holds its shape better than Pillowtops’ materials. However, it's worth noting that both mattress types will need regular maintenance to ensure longevity. Remember to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for care and maintenance to avoid ruining your mattress or voiding the warranty. 

Cost

The cost of Pillowtop and Eurotop mattresses generally varies depending on the brand, construction, and materials. However, Eurotops are often considered more luxurious and expensive due to their high-quality materials, discreet, seamless design, and durability. While Pillowtops can be found across a broad range of price points, they're much more affordable than Eurotops. Before you decide to opt for a specific price range, make sure you consider the long-term value and how your bed fits your comfort and support needs. 

When You Should Buy a Pillowtop Mattress 

If you often sleep on your side and prefer a mattress that offers a plush and luxurious feel immediately after you lie on it, you might be better off with a traditional Pillow top mattress. When side sleeping, Pillowtop mattresses provide exceptional pressure relief, cradling the hip region and shoulders for a good night's sleep. Those with hip pain might also benefit from this soft mattress, as the extra boost of plush comfort helps relieve pressure on aching joints, especially if the mattress has a high-density and supportive base layer. 

You might also consider buying Pillowtop mattresses if you're on a tight budget. Pillowtops often focus on cushioning the sleeper's body rather than having a discreet look. Their simplistic nature makes them a great budget-friendly option. 

When You Should Buy a Eurotop Mattress

So, when should you consider buying a Eurotop mattress? If you prefer a relatively firm mattress that offers the best of both worlds - plushness, and support - you'll never go wrong with a Eurotop mattress. These mattresses offer a perfect middle ground, catering to sleepers of different body types and preferences. They're particularly suitable for stomach sleepers, back sleepers, and combination sleepers, thanks to their medium-firm feel, which ensures proper spinal alignment and excellent pressure relief.

Eurotops are also great for couples because of their sturdy edge support. You can comfortably use the entire surface area of your mattress without stressing about falling off the sides. And since they're less likely to sag and form indentations over time, they'll also make supportive sleep surfaces for heavier folks. 

Other Factors to Consider When Buying 

Pillowtop and Eurotop mattresses offer an extra soft layer that helps relieve pain and pressure. However, you should keep in mind that a Pillowtop won't change your mattress' overall feel that much. So, make sure you examine the underlying mattress’ overall feel before committing to a particular brand.

Another crucial factor that we emphasize is how different materials will affect the overall feel of your mattress. For instance, a latex foam Pillowtop mattress will feel more responsive and supportive compared to a wool or memory foam mattress.

Your preferred sleeping position and body type should also guide you in picking the best mattress, as different support levels are needed for different positions and weight categories to maintain proper spinal alignment.

Your health is a key determinant as well, as the mattress you sleep on will influence your sleep quality and rate of recovery. For example, if you're allergic, you don't want to go for a mattress that will exacerbate the symptoms and worsen your condition. Instead, opt for a hypoallergenic model that resists molds, dust mites, and mildew, providing a conducive sleep environment.

Many companies nowadays offer sleep trial periods to allow shoppers to return the new mattress if it doesn't meet their expectations. Also, check whether your brand has warranty coverage for manufacturing defects and premature sagging. By taking your time to consider these factors, you'll be able to choose a Pillowtop or Eurotop mattress that contributes to restorative sleep.

Our Top Picks 

We've tested countless mattresses over the past few years, and dozens of them could be categorized as either a Pillowtop or Eurotop mattress. This isn't surprising, as the differences between the two are subtle. 

Below are our top-rated Pillowtop and Eurotop mattresses currently on the market.

Nolah Evolution 15 Mattress - Best Eurotop Mattress

The Nolah Evolution 15 delivers the deeply cushioned body contouring we expect from a Eurotop mattress without skimping on robustness or sturdy edge support. Thanks to its multiple firmness levels, most of our testers found a comfortable design for their needs. 

Construction 

A common complaint that we've been having about many Eurotops is that they're too soft and lack sufficient support. The Nolah Evolution 15 stands out, thanks to its sturdy design with a zoned coil system that helps maintain an even sleep surface and robust transition layers for added reinforcement. Like most Eurotop mattresses, the Nolah Evolution 15 has an above-average profile. It features a cooling quilted Eurotop organic cotton cover paired with heat-dissipating ArcticTex fibers to keep sleepers cool and dry while safeguarding your mattress from germs and damage. This is followed by an AirFoamICE polyfoam layer that enhances Nolah's contouring performance. An additional CertiPUR-US certified layer of resilient foam offers excellent pressure relief and full body support. The support core consists of a zoned coil system that delivers targeted support while enhancing the responsiveness of the foam layers above. 

How it Performed 

The Nolah Evolution 15 comes in 3 different firmness levels. When back and side sleeping on the firm and luxury firm models, we found that the Nolah Evolution 15 had nice sinkage that helped alleviate pressure around our hips and shoulders. All our lightweight testers appreciated the cushioning comfort and pressure relief of the softest version. 

If you run hot, you'll be glad to know that this Eurotop mattress offers excellent temperature regulation. Its pocketed coil system promotes maximum airflow, while the foam layers and Eurotop cover are designed to dissipate excess body heat. The mattress also boasts sturdy edge support and is particularly bouncy, meaning combo sleepers should have an easy time switching between positions. 

Nolah offers free ground shipping throughout the contiguous United States. Your purchase includes a trial period that goes for 120 nights. If you're happy with its performance after this period, the Pillowtop bed is further backed by a limited lifetime warranty. 

The Signature Bliss - Best Pillowtop Mattress 

If you're looking for a Pillowtop mattress with modern, eco-friendly materials, you'll never go wrong with the Signature Bliss by PlushBeds. Crafted with GOTS-certified organic cotton and wool, and wrapped in a soft, luxurious cover, this Pillowtop mattress is the key to unlocking a clean, healthy sleep environment.

Construction 

The Signature Bliss is designed with the world's finest materials, including a GOLS-certified Pillowtop layer of organic latex that is designed to cushion your body for pressure point relief. This is followed by a 5-zoned, fabric-encased coil support system that offers targeted body support and superb motion isolation. The coil-based system also stabilizes your mattress, allowing you to move on the surface with ease and get in bed without sinking deep into the surface.

A 10 lbs. GOTS-certified organic wool layer offers exceptional soothing support while maintaining a cool and comfortable temperature during the night. All these layers are encased in a certified organic cotton cover that absorbs excess moisture and offers unrestricted airflow to keep sleepers cool and dry. As a versatile mattress, the Signature Bliss comes in 7 sizes and 2 firmness levels, allowing you to customize the feel of your bed to your liking. 

How it Performed 

The Signature Bliss by PlushBeds earned exceptional ratings from most of our team members across different weight categories and sleep position groups. Back and side sleepers weighing up to 230 pounds awarded the highest points to the medium-firm version. It offered enough plushness to contour to the body and alleviate pressure points. The organic wool and latex layer make the top surface softer and more adaptive, a vital add-on for those who experience pressure around their hips, lower back, and shoulders. 

While stomach sleepers may still find the medium version comfortable as well, we recommend the firm model, as it can keep the midsection from sinking deep into the bed Couples may also want to check this Pillowtop mattress out, as it did an excellent job at absorbing movement and minimizing motion transfer. Latex comfort layers reduce heat buildup, and the coil support system promotes plenty of airflow, meaning your bed should also sleep relatively cool. 

PlushBeds offers a 100-night sleep trial period and an industry-leading lifetime warranty for the Signature Bliss. Shipping is free within the contiguous United States.

FAQs 

Let's look at some frequently asked questions about Pillowtop and Eurotop mattresses 

What's the main difference between Pillowtop and Eurotop 

The main difference between the two lies in the construction. Pillowtops have a plush, pillowy layer stitched on top of the surface, while the extra padding layer in Eurotops is seamlessly integrated with the mattress layers beneath the cover. 

Which mattress type delivers a more luxurious feel?

Pillowtops are popular for their opulent and cloud-like feel, delivering a truly indulging and luxurious sleep experience.

Which mattress lasts longer, Pillowtop or Eurotop?

While both models can last longer with regular maintenance, Eurotops generally have better durability. 

How thick is a Pillowtop mattress?

Generally, mattress brands and models can affect the thickness of your mattress. Most beds range from 8 - 14 inches thick, but like a mattress topper, a pillow top can add an extra 2 - 4 inches. 

Are Pillowtop mattresses durable?

The build, material, and density of Pillowtops aren't engineered to sustain years of use. Compared to other types of mattresses, they have a significantly shorter lifespan and tend to deteriorate much faster. You can expect your Pillowtop mattress to last an average of 3 - 5 years with proper care and maintenance. 

Can you flip a Eurotop mattress?

You can't flip your Eurotop mattress. If you do so, you'll only end up ruining the cushioning layer on top, leaving you with uncomfortable innerspring or rigid coils. 

Can you flip a Pillowtop mattress?

Like Eurotops, Pillowtops are supposed to remain upright, so flipping them will leave you with a rigid coil support core to sleep on, which is quite uncomfortable. You can consider rotating your mattress instead at least thrice a year to even out the wear and tear.

Which Model Is Right for You?

When choosing between Pillowtop and Eurotop mattresses, you must consider your unique sleep preferences and each mattress type's benefits. While both tops aim to deliver a cushioning yet supportive sleep experience, the choice depends on whether you love the cloud-like plushness of Pillowtops or the uniform appearance and subtle firmness of Eurotops. As you weigh your options, consider the long-term comfort that will promote the best sleep experience. Whether you opt for the enhanced softness and pressure relief of a Pillowtop mattress or the cushioned support and improved durability of a Eurotop model, both are engineered to enhance your night experience and ensure restorative sleep.