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Pillow Top vs Euro Top Mattresses

A mattress with a pillow top design could be the answer to that extra-soft feel you crave. Learn more about pillow top mattresses here – and exactly what distinguishes them from Euro tops!

What Is a Pillow Top Mattress?

A pillow top mattress is a mattress that features an extra layer of cushioning covering the top of the mattress. This cushioning is known as a pillow top layer and is usually crafted with a blend of cotton and/or memory foam. Pillow top mattresses are most commonly found on firmer mattress models, such as innerspring mattresses, to add a softer feel to a high-support design.

What Is a Tight Top Mattress?

A tight top mattress is a mattress that does not contain an extra cushion layer. These mattresses can come in a variety of comfort levels, from plush to medium to firm, but just lack the pillow feeling that comes with a pillow top mattress. Like the name implies, tight top mattresses have a tighter surface, creating a more supportive feel.

What’s the Difference Between a Pillow Top and Euro Top?


Standard pillow top: In a mattress with a standard pillow top, the pillow top layer is sewn onto the top of the mattress. In other words, there are two visibly separate (but attached) pieces.


Euro pillow top: A mattress with a Euro top features a pillow top layer built under the top of the mattress; unlike a standard pillow top, a Euro pillow top mattress does not feature a top that is visibly separate from the rest of the mattress design.

Can you flip a pillow top mattress? In both standard pillow top and Euro pillow top mattresses, the pillow top is usually sewn into only one side of the mattress, which would create an uneven feel if the mattress were to be flipped over. However, because of this, mattresses with pillow tops are often designed in such a way that they don’t need to be routinely flipped – high-quality craftsmanship and materials will preserve the mattress’s shape and support even after years of use.

Are Pillow Top Mattresses Good?

Pillow top mattresses are good for anyone who prefers a plusher feel. This means that if you like to sink in a little or want an airy buffer between your and your mattress, you can't go wrong with a pillow top mattress. Remember, the pillow top is just an add-on, so the mattress itself is made of the same quality and supportive comfort as regular mattresses – it just has an extra layer up top for an even more of a plusher feel!

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Editorial Disclaimer: Articles featuring tips and advice are intended for educational purposes and only as general recommendations. Always practice personal discretion when using and caring for furniture, decor and related items.