
You’ve probably heard about pillow tops before in regard to mattresses. What you might not know is that they’re similar to memory foam, but at a fraction of the cost. They’re available in all sizes, from twin to California King, but that doesn’t mean that it’s the perfect mattress for everyone. Before you consider buying one, you should know what the pros and cons are.
What Is A Pillow Top Mattress?
A Full Size Pillow Top Mattress is an extra layer of padding on top of the mattress. They’re much different from toppers, which entered the market afterward. Toppers tend to move around, while pillow tops are sewn in, providing extra comfort without having to worry about it shifting while you sleep.
Pro #1: Added Comfort
Adding a pillow top raises the standard of what mattress you’re currently using. While the interior of the bed is usually innerspring or pocketed coils, having an additional layer can make any bed feel like a cloud.
Pro #2: Less Off-Gassing
One of the biggest complaints about a new mattress is that it gives off fumes that can last for weeks or even months. That’s not something anyone would want to sleep on for an extended period of time. However, the average pillow top is not going to give off these scents.
Pro #3: Added Pressure Relief
Pillow tops are known for being quite supportive while you’re sleeping. They work well for those who sleep on their sides, offering great hip and shoulder support so that there aren’t aching joints in the morning. And who wouldn’t want a more fitful night of sleep?
Pro #4: They’re Very Affordable
Buying a luxury mattress could mean you breaking the bank because it can be quite expensive. A pillow top isn’t cheap, costing about 30% more than a standard mattress, but they still cost a lot less than a memory foam mattress that has the same level of comfort.
Con #1: They Are Heavier
Keep in mind that a pillow top will add more weight to a mattress, as much as a 20% increase in weight, which can make it difficult for you to move your bed around.
Con #2: They Tend To Sag
There is the real potential for sagging. The topmost layer does compress over time from body weight and natural deterioration, so they can lose their supportive properties over time.
Con #3: They Trap Heat
Studies have shown that cooler temperatures can help you fall asleep much more quickly, as well as staying asleep for much longer. The problem with pillow tops is that they tend to trap heat, which can affect your overall sleep quality.
Con #4: Having To Buy Bigger Mattresses
With a pillow top mattress, it’s unlikely that your twin sheets will fit a twin-size mattress. You have to buy a size up in order to accommodate the addition of the pillow top. Having to get new sheets can dramatically add to the costs of a new pillow top mattress.
After considering these pros and cons, you should definitely try out a pillow top mattress first to see if it works well for you, as well as whether it’s worth the cost.