Buy Winstons Beds hand-stitched pocket spring mattress, Double, Kingsize, Super king at winstonsbeds.com/en-us
British Handcrafting Heritage

Winston's Beds
30 Year Guarantee

Buy Winstons Beds hand-stitched pocket spring mattress, Double, Kingsize, Super king at winstonsbeds.com/en-us
100 Night Trial

star icon
5 Star Reviews

What is a pillow top mattress

Understanding what a pillow top mattress is can be key to improving your sleep quality. Renowned for their plush comfort, these mattresses offer a blend of softness and support. In this blog, we’ll dive into the details to help you decide if a pillow top mattress is right for you.

What is a pillow top mattress?

A pillow top mattress is a specialized mattress type that features an extra layer of padding sewn onto its top surface. This additional layer, known as the pillow top, provides a plush, cushiony feel that enhances comfort without compromising the underlying support of the mattress.

The appeal of pillow top mattresses lies in their ability to offer a soft, luxurious sleep surface that conforms to the body’s natural curves, alleviating pressure points, and contributing to a more restful night sleep. This type of mattress is particularly beneficial for side sleepers and those with hip pain or joint pain, as it provides the necessary pressure relief and spinal alignment.

What types of pillow top mattresses are their?

Double sided pillow top mattresses

Double sided pillow top mattresses represent the gold standard in mattress design. Unlike traditional single sided mattresses, where only one side can be used, double sided mattresses feature a removable topper attached via buttoned handles, allowing both the topper and the mattress to be flipped and rotated. This unique design offers several key features, starting with durability.

Flipping and rotating the mattress and topper regularly distributes the wear evenly across both sides, preventing the formation of sags and indentations. This even wear is crucial in maintaining a consistently comfortable sleep surface over the long term. Without this capability, mattresses are prone to developing permanent impressions in the areas where the body exerts the most pressure, leading to discomfort and a shortened lifespan.

Moreover, the construction of these mattresses often includes luxury pocketed coils like calico pocket coil springs and high end natural fibers. The use of these quality materials contributes to the overall longevity and comfort of the mattress. Calico pocket coil springs, for example, are individually wrapped in fabric, which allows each spring to move independently.

This independent movement helps the mattress conform to the body’s shape, providing tailored support and minimizing motion transfer, which is especially beneficial for combination sleepers and couples. The natural fibers, like cashmere, lambswool, horsehair and silk, not only add a layer of opulence but also enhance the mattress’s breathability, helping regulate body heat throughout the night.

The ability to flip and rotate the mattress and its topper is not just about maintaining the mattress’s physical structure; it’s about preserving the sleeping experience. Over time, even the most robust mattresses will show signs of wear, but with a double sided pillow top mattress, these effects are significantly delayed, ensuring a more comfortable night sleep for years to come.

Single sided pillow top mattresses

While single sided pillow top mattresses may offer an inviting initial comfort, they often fall short in the long run. These mattresses feature the pillow top layer sewn onto one side, which means they can only be used in one orientation. This limitation significantly reduces their lifespan compared to their double sided counterparts.

One of the main drawbacks of single sided pillow top mattresses is the uneven wear they experience. Since the mattress cannot be flipped, the same areas of the mattress are subjected to continuous pressure night after night. Over time, this leads to the formation of depressions and sags, particularly in areas where the body is heaviest, such as the hips and shoulders. These indentations not only reduce the mattress’s comfort but can also lead to improper spinal alignment, increasing the risk of developing aches and pains, particularly for those with existing joint pain or hip pain.

Additionally, single sided mattresses often utilize cheaper materials like synthetic foams or low quality innersprings. While these materials may provide adequate support initially, they tend to degrade more quickly, resulting in a mattress that loses its shape and support much faster. This rapid deterioration means that a single sided pillow top mattress may need to be replaced every 1-3 years, which can be both inconvenient and costly in the long term.

In contrast, our double sided pillow top mattresses offer a much longer lifespan, often lasting up to 30 years with proper care. The initial investment in a double sided mattress may be higher, but the long-term value is significantly greater, providing consistent comfort and support for decades.

The building blocks of a pillow top mattress

The materials used in the construction of a pillow top mattress play a crucial role in determining its quality, comfort, and durability. At Winstons Beds, we understand that the finest materials make the best mattress, which is why our double sided pillow top mattresses are crafted with only the highest quality materials.

Springs

The support core of a mattress is one of its most critical components, and in our double sided pillow top mattresses, we use luxury calico pocket coil springs. These individually wrapped coils are encased in calico fabric pockets and the springs are hand tied with twine, allowing them to move independently.

This design ensures that the mattress conforms to your body type, providing personalized support that adjusts to your unique shape and sleeping position. The calico fabric not only adds durability but also reduces noise, making for a quieter, more restful night sleep.

In contrast, many single sided mattresses use cheaper innersprings or micro coils. These springs are often interconnected, meaning that pressure on one part of the mattress can affect other areas, leading to a less supportive and less comfortable sleeping surface. Additionally, these lower quality springs are more prone to wear and tear, leading to a shorter mattress lifespan.

Natural fibers

The comfort layers of a pillow top mattress are where the luxury truly shines through. At Winstons Beds, we use only the finest natural fibers, such as English lambswool, horsehair, cashmere, silk, and alpaca wool. These materials are known for their softness, durability, and breathability, making them ideal for creating a comfortable and luxurious sleep surface.

Natural fibers have several advantages over synthetic materials. First, they are highly breathable, allowing air to circulate through the mattress, which helps regulate your body heat during sleep. This breathability is particularly beneficial for hot sleepers, as it helps prevent overheating and night sweats. Additionally, natural fibers are more durable than synthetic foams, meaning they are less likely to break down or compress over time, maintaining their plushness and support for many years.

In contrast, mattresses that use synthetic foams or fibers tend to trap heat, making for a less comfortable sleeping experience. These materials also tend to degrade faster, leading to a mattress that loses its shape and support much more quickly.

Mattress cover

The cover of a mattress is often overlooked, but it plays a vital role in the overall feel and durability of the mattress. Our double sided pillow top mattresses are covered in 100% chemical-free Belgian satin damask, a luxurious and durable fabric that adds to the mattress’s overall comfort and aesthetic appeal.

Belgian satin damask is not only soft to the touch but also incredibly durable, ensuring that the mattress cover will remain in excellent condition for many years. Being chemical-free, it is also a healthier option for those concerned about the presence of toxins in their sleeping environment. The high-quality fabric also helps protect the inner layers of the mattress, contributing to its longevity.

Benefits double sided pillow top mattresses

Double sided pillow top mattresses offer a range of benefits that make them the superior choice for those seeking long-term comfort and durability. The ability to flip and rotate the mattress ensures even wear, preventing the formation of sags and dips that can compromise comfort and support. This feature alone can double the lifespan of the mattress, making it a smart investment for those who value quality and longevity.

Moreover, the use of premium materials like calico pocket coil springs and natural fibers such as cashmere, horsehair, lambswool, and silk ensures that the mattress provides consistent support and comfort for many years. These materials not only add to the luxurious feel of the mattress but also contribute to its overall durability, ensuring that you’ll enjoy a good night’s sleep for decades to come.

Another significant advantage of double sided pillow top mattresses is their ability to maintain a fresh and plush sleeping surface over time. By flipping and rotating the mattress regularly, you can ensure that both sides of the mattress receive equal use, preventing the formation of permanent impressions and maintaining a consistently comfortable sleep surface. This feature is particularly beneficial for those who value a high-quality sleep experience and want to extend the life of their mattress as long as possible.

Problems with single sided pillow top mattresses

Single sided pillow top mattresses, while initially appealing for their softness and cushioning, often fail to provide long-term value. The inability to flip the mattress means that it will wear unevenly, with the most heavily used areas breaking down much faster than the rest of the mattress. This uneven wear leads to the formation of sags and dips, which can cause discomfort and disrupt proper spinal alignment, leading to aches and pains.

Additionally, the use of lower-quality materials in many single sided mattresses contributes to their shorter lifespan. Synthetic foams and cheaper innersprings may feel comfortable at first, but they tend to degrade more quickly than natural materials, leading to a mattress that loses its support and comfort within just a few years. This rapid degradation means that you’ll need to replace the mattress more frequently, leading to higher costs over time.

For those who value both comfort and longevity, a double sided pillow top mattress is the superior choice. While the initial cost may be higher, the long-term value is significantly greater, providing consistent comfort and support for many years to come.

Conclusion

A pillow top mattress offers a plush and luxurious sleep surface that can significantly enhance your night sleep experience. However, the construction and materials of the mattress play a crucial role in determining its longevity and overall performance. Double sided pillow top mattresses, like those offered by Winstons Beds, provide unparalleled durability and comfort by allowing both the mattress and topper to be flipped and rotated. This design, combined with the use of high-quality natural organic materials and luxury calico pocket coil springs, ensures that you’ll enjoy a good night’s sleep for many years to come.

In contrast, single sided pillow top mattresses, while initially comfortable, often fail to provide long-term value. Their inability to be flipped and rotated leads to faster wear, decreased support, and a shorter overall lifespan. For those who value both luxury and longevity, investing in a double sided pillow top mattress is the best overall choice.

Looking for more information?

Explore our expert guides on pillow top mattresses, including “What is the Best Pillow Top Mattress,” “How Long Does a Pillow Top Mattress Last,” “What is a Plush Pillow Top Mattress” and “What Are The Disadvantages of a Pillow Top Mattress.” These articles, filled with essential tips on selecting, maintaining, and extending your mattress’s life, are crafted by industry specialists to help you make informed decisions for a perfect night’s sleep.

Frequently Asked Questions

Winstons Beds' best pillow top mattress toppers stand out due to their exceptional craftsmanship and use of high GSM natural fibers. Our toppers are among the thickest available, ranging from 4 to 6 inches in thickness, providing superior comfort and support. Made with luxurious materials like hand-teased Shropshire wool, cashmere, and horsetail, these toppers offer a plush, supportive surface that enhances your mattress's comfort and durability. This combination of quality materials and thoughtful design ensures that our toppers deliver an unmatched sleeping experience.
Winstons Beds does not offer a firm pillow top mattress topper because we believe in a balanced approach to comfort and support. Instead, our No2 and Duke mattresses feature a firmer core mattress combined with a softer topper. This design provides the necessary firm support for your back and spine while offering a cushioned, plush surface to rest on. This combination is superior to a firm topper alone, as it maintains support without compromising on comfort, ensuring a more restful and comfortable sleep.
For those seeking an extra firm pillow top mattress, the No2 or Duke from Winstons Beds is the perfect choice. These mattresses feature a firmer core that provides solid support, ideal for those who prefer a more structured sleeping surface. The attached pillow top adds a layer of cushioning, ensuring that while the mattress offers firm support, you still experience a plush and comfortable top layer. This design is better than an entirely firm mattress as it balances firmness with comfort, preventing the mattress from feeling too hard or unyielding.
The difference between a pillow top and plush mattress lies primarily in the construction and feel. A pillow top mattress is designed to be plush, with an added top layer that provides a soft, cushioning feel. This top layer creates a more pronounced sinking sensation, offering more immediate softness compared to a standard plush mattress. In contrast, a plush mattress without a topper is soft throughout but may not have the same level of cushioning as one with a pillow top. Essentially, a plush pillow top mattress amplifies the plushness by adding an extra layer of comfort, making it feel even more luxurious and enveloping.
There are no FAQs matching your search

Published: 6th September 2024 (Updated: 30th September 2024) | Isaah

-->
Compare Mattresses
Construction
Mattresses
Sleep Tips
Sleep Trouble
Upholstery
  • Guarantee Icon

    Member of the FHIO

    Government-approved dispute resolution service for consumers to help reach a fair outcome.

  • Approved Icon

    Made by an NBF Member

    Have peace of mind that the mattress you are buying is safe, clean and exactly what it says it is.

  • British Icon

    97 Years British Heritage

    Mattresses made by artisans with over 97 years of british handcrafting heritage.