Pillow Top Mattresses Pros and Cons

Pillow top mattresses offer a unique combination of softness, comfort, and support, making them a popular choice among sleepers. However, they also have some disadvantages that you should consider when deciding whether to buy one. Here are the pros and cons of pillow top mattresses:

Pros of Pillow top mattresses:

Softer feel: Pillow top mattresses have an added layer of cushioning on top of the mattress, providing an extra layer of softness and comfort that can enhance your sleeping experience.
Pressure relief: Pillow top mattresses can help relieve pressure points, especially in the hips and shoulders. This can be beneficial for people who suffer from back pain or prefer a softer sleeping surface.
Versatility: Pillow top mattresses are available in a wide range of materials, including foam, innerspring, and latex. This allows you to select the best material and construction for your individual needs and preferences.

Cons of Pillow top mattresses:

Heat retention: Pillow top mattresses can trap heat, causing discomfort during the night. This can be particularly uncomfortable for hot sleepers who tend to get warm while sleeping.
Durability: Pillow top mattresses tend to wear out more quickly than traditional mattresses due to the added padding. This can be a problem if you’re looking for a long-lasting mattress that maintains its shape and support over time.
Price: Pillow top mattresses can be more expensive than traditional mattresses due to the added materials and construction. This can be a disadvantage for budget-conscious shoppers.

Overall, pillow top mattresses can be a good choice for those who prefer a softer sleeping surface and need pressure relief. However, they do come with some disadvantages like heat retention and durability issues, so it’s important to weigh up the pros and cons before making a purchase.

How to clean a pillow top mattress?

Cleaning a pillow top mattress involves removing surface stains, odors, and allergens. Here are some steps to clean a pillow top mattress:

Remove the sheets and pillowcases from your mattress: Start by removing all the bedding and pillows from your mattress and washing them in hot water to kill any allergens or dust mites.
Vacuum the mattress: Use a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment to remove any dust, pet hair or particles from the surface and the crevices of your mattress.
Spot-clean stains: For minor stains, you can spot clean using a mixture of warm water and mild detergent. Dip a clean cloth in the solution and gently dab the stain, being careful not to saturate the area. Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach as they can damage the mattress.
Deodorize: To remove any odors from the mattress, sprinkle baking soda over the surface and let it sit for a few hours. Then, vacuum the mattress again to remove the baking soda and any odors it has absorbed.
Air-dry the mattress: Once you have finished cleaning the mattress, leave it to air-dry completely before putting the sheets back on. Avoid using a dryer or exposing the mattress to direct sunlight as they can cause damage to the materials.

It’s essential to keep your mattress clean to maintain its quality and extend its lifespan. It’s recommended to clean your pillow top mattress at least twice a year and address any spills or stains as soon as possible to prevent them from setting in.

How to clean urine from mattress with a pillow top?

Cleaning urine from a mattress with a pillow top can be challenging as the urine can seep inside the pillow top and become difficult to remove. Here are the steps to clean urine from a mattress with a pillow top:

Absorb the urine: Use a clean and dry cloth or paper towels to blot up as much of the urine as possible from the surface of the pillow top mattress. Avoid rubbing the area, as this can push the urine deeper into the mattress.
Apply an enzyme cleaner: Enzyme cleaners are specifically designed to break down the proteins in urine and eliminate the odor. Apply the enzyme cleaner to the affected area according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Be sure to saturate the pillow top layer and the underlying mattress to ensure that all the urine is treated.
Let it sit: Allow the enzyme cleaner to sit on the mattress for at least 15-20 minutes, or longer if recommended by the manufacturer. This will give it time to penetrate and break down the urine.
Rinse with water: After the enzyme cleaner has had time to work, use a damp cloth or paper towel to rinse the area thoroughly with water, making sure to remove all traces of the enzyme cleaner.
Dry the mattress: Use a fan, open windows, or a dehumidifier to help dry the mattress completely, so there is no moisture left behind that could lead to mold or mildew growth.

It may take multiple applications of the enzyme cleaner to completely eliminate the urine odor. Be sure to follow all instructions on the product packaging and avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach, which can damage the pillow top layer and the mattress.

How to flip a pillow top mattress?

Not all pillow top mattresses are designed to be flipped, as the pillow top layer is typically stitched to the top of the mattress. However, some pillow top mattresses are double-sided with pillow top layers on both sides, allowing for flipping to distribute the wear evenly. If your pillow top mattress is double-sided, here are the steps to flip it:

Remove the bedding: Remove all the bedding, sheets, and pillows from your mattress.
Check the mattress: Evaluate the condition of your pillow top mattress to ensure that it is double-sided and suitable for flipping. Some mattresses have a label identifying which side is meant to be up.
Prepare the area: Clear the space around the bed and prepare the area where you will flip the mattress.
Ask for help if needed: Depending on the size and weight of the mattress, you may need someone to help you flip it over.
Flip the mattress: Holding onto opposite sides of the mattress, carefully lift and rotate it 180 degrees. Make sure the mattress is centered properly on the bed frame.
Add new bedding: Once the mattress is flipped, add new sheets and bedding, making sure everything is in place.

Remember that not all pillow top mattresses can be flipped, as the pillow top layer is typically attached to the mattress. Consult your manufacturer’s instructions or label to determine if flipping your pillow top mattress is recommended.

FAQ: About Pillow Top Mattresses

What is a pillow top mattress?

A pillow top mattress is a type of mattress that features an additional layer of cushioning material sewn onto the top of the mattress, resembling a pillow.

What are the pros of pillow top mattresses?

Pillow top mattresses provide extra comfort and support, especially for side sleepers. They offer pressure relief and conform to the body’s shape, reducing stress on joints, muscles, and bones. They can be less expensive than memory foam mattresses, and they’re easier to clean.

What are the cons of pillow top mattresses?

Pillow top mattresses can make you feel hot at night. They may not last as long as other types of mattresses, and they can be expensive. If they’re not regularly rotated, they can develop sagging or body impressions in the pillow top layer.

How long do pillow top mattresses last?

Pillow top mattresses’ lifespan can vary depending on the quality and type of materials used. They can last for about 6-7 years, but some can last up to a decade.

Are pillow top mattresses better for side sleepers?

Yes, pillow top mattresses are ideal for side sleepers. They provide extra cushioning and reduce pressure points in the hips and shoulders.

What types of pillow top mattresses are available?

Pillow top mattresses come in various styles, such as innerspring, hybrid, and memory foam. They also differ in firmness levels, thickness, and materials used.

Are pillow top mattresses good for back pain?

Yes, pillow top mattresses can provide relief for back pain. They offer an extra layer of comfort and pressure relief, reducing stress on the spine and muscles.

How do I care for my pillow top mattress?

Rotate your pillow top mattress every 3-6 months to prevent sagging and body impressions. Clean it regularly with a vacuum and spot cleaning as needed.

How thick is a pillow top mattress?

Pillow top mattress thickness can vary from 2-4 inches or more, depending on the manufacturer and model.