What is the best pillow top mattress

What to look for to find the best mattress with pillow top

When looking for a pillow top mattress, it’s important to focus on a few key factors to ensure you’re making the best choice for your comfort and support. Here are the main things to consider:

• Construction
• Fibers Used
• GSM of Fibers
• Springs Used
• Hand Stitching
• Hand Teased Fibers
• Spring Tension
• Sleeping Position

Once you know the answers to these key factors, you’ll be better equipped to find the best pillow top mattress for your needs. Understanding why each element is important will help you make an informed decision, ensuring you get the right support and comfort for a good night’s sleep. Continue reading below as we explain why these factors matter, so you can confidently choose the best mattress for you.

How is the best rated pillow top mattress constructed

When searching for the best pillow top mattress, understanding its construction is crucial. Below, we’ll delve into the key factors that contribute to the highest quality mattresses, helping you identify what makes a mattress truly stand out in terms of comfort, support, and durability.

What fibers should the best mattress pillow top use?

When choosing the best mattress pillow top, the quality of the fibers used is crucial. Natural fibers are superior for comfort, breathability, and durability. Here’s a look at the different types of natural fibers we use in our pillow tops and why they are excellent choices.

• English Lambswool is soft, resilient, and provides excellent support. It helps regulate body heat, keeping you comfortable in different seasons.
• Cashmere adds a luxurious feel to the mattress. It’s incredibly soft, yet strong, and offers excellent insulation and moisture-wicking properties.
• British Fleece Wool & Cotton is a blend that offers both comfort and durability. This combination provides a balanced softness and strength, making it a reliable choice for long-lasting mattresses.
• Silk is a premium fiber known for its smooth texture and temperature-regulating properties. It’s also hypoallergenic, making it ideal for sleepers with sensitivities.
• Alpaca Wool is lightweight yet insulating. It’s also moisture-resistant, which helps keep the mattress fresh and dry.
• Shropshire Wool is highly durable and resilient. It adds a layer of plushness while enhancing the overall support of the mattress.
• Horsetail is one of the most durable natural fibers, offering a unique combination of springiness and support. It helps the mattress maintain its shape over years of use.
• Highland Wool is a sustainable fiber that provides excellent thermal regulation and softness. It’s also resilient, making it ideal for a long-lasting pillow top.
• Organic Flax is used for its strength and breathability. It adds firmness to the mattress, balancing the softness of other fibers.
• Bamboo is naturally antibacterial and highly breathable. It’s a sustainable choice that enhances the mattress’s comfort and hygiene.
• Merino Wool is incredibly soft and helps regulate temperature, making it perfect for year-round comfort.
• Mohair is known for its sheen and durability. It adds a luxurious feel to the mattress while offering superior support.
• Hessian is a strong, coarse fiber used to add structure and durability to the mattress. It’s typically used in the foundation layers to ensure the mattress lasts longer.
• Cotton is soft, breathable, and highly absorbent. It enhances the comfort of the mattress by providing a soft, cushioned surface.
• Horsehair adds a layer of springiness and durability. It’s a traditional material used in luxury mattresses for its excellent ventilation and resilience.
• Coconut Coir is a natural, eco-friendly material that provides firm support. It’s often used in the foundation layers for added durability and structure.

These natural fibers are chosen for their individual qualities, contributing to a quality mattress that offers both comfort and durability. The combination of these fibers in a pillow top ensures a balanced feel, providing softness where you need it and support where it counts.

In contrast, foam is a much cheaper material to produce. While foam may be used in some mattresses, it does not offer the same level of comfort, breathability, or durability as natural fibers. Foam tends to trap body heat and can break down quickly over time, leading to a shorter life span for the mattress. This makes foam a less desirable option for those looking for a high-quality, long-lasting mattress.

In summary, the best mattress pillow tops should use a blend of natural fibers like English Lambswool, Cashmere, and Horsetail to provide a luxurious, supportive, and durable sleep surface. Avoiding foam in favor of these premium materials ensures a good night sleep with lasting comfort and support.

What is GSM and why is it so important?

GSM stands for “grams per square meter” and is a measure of the density of the fibers used in a mattress. Essentially, GSM tells you how much material is packed into a given area of the mattress. The higher the GSM, the more fibers are used, which generally indicates a denser, more luxurious mattress. This metric is crucial in determining the overall quality, comfort, and durability of a mattress.

The importance of GSM lies in its direct impact on the feel and longevity of the mattress. Higher GSM means that more fibers are packed into the mattress, creating a thicker, more supportive layer. This added density enhances the mattress’s ability to contour to your body, providing superior comfort and reducing pressure points, which is essential for a good night’s sleep. Additionally, a higher GSM contributes to better durability, as the mattress can withstand wear and tear over time without losing its shape or comfort.

A mattress with a high GSM of quality fibers is more expensive to produce. This is because it requires a larger quantity of premium materials, such as organic cotton, wool, or cashmere, which are more costly than synthetic alternatives. These natural fibers not only add to the plushness and support of the mattress but also improve breathability, ensuring a more comfortable sleeping environment. The investment in these high-quality materials is reflected in the mattress’s price, but it also translates to a longer-lasting, more comfortable product.

In contrast, foam is a much cheaper material to manufacture. While it is often used in mattresses due to its low cost, it does not offer the same level of support, comfort, or durability as natural fibers. Foam can break down over time, losing its shape and becoming less supportive, which can lead to discomfort and the need to replace the mattress sooner. This is why mattresses with a high GSM of natural fibers are generally considered superior to those made primarily of foam.

In summary, GSM is a key factor in assessing the quality of a mattress. A higher GSM indicates a denser, more luxurious product made with premium materials that enhance comfort, support, and durability. While these mattresses are more expensive to produce, they offer a better sleeping experience and a longer life span, making them a worthwhile investment compared to cheaper, foam-based options.

Why the type of springs in a mattress matters

The springs inside a mattress play a crucial role in its overall comfort, support, and durability. Understanding the different types of springs and their functions can help you choose the best mattress for your needs. There are three primary types of springs used in mattresses: Calico Pocket Springs, Micro Coil Springs, and Innersprings (often referred to as Bonnell springs). Each type of spring has its own characteristics, quality, and impact on mattress performance.

Calico Pocket Springs

Calico pocket springs are considered the highest quality springs used in mattresses, and their construction process is a testament to their superior craftsmanship. Each spring is individually wrapped in a breathable cotton pocket, known as calico. This natural material allows the springs to move independently, ensuring that the mattress can contour to your body and provide targeted support where needed.

The construction process of calico pocket springs involves hand-tying the springs together using twine. This traditional method of tying the springs ensures that each one functions independently, preventing the transfer of movement from one side of the mattress to the other.

Because of the meticulous craftsmanship involved in making calico pocket springs, they are the most expensive type of spring on the market. The quality of materials, combined with the detailed construction process, makes these springs an investment in comfort and durability. They offer unparalleled lumbar support and promote a good night’s sleep, making them a top choice for those seeking a luxury mattress.

Micro Coil Springs

Micro coil springs, on the other hand, are much smaller and thinner than traditional pocket springs and are typically used in the comfort layers of a mattress rather than as a primary support system. These springs are designed to add a layer of softness and are often used alongside other materials like fibers. However, they are considered inferior in terms of performance compared to traditional pocket springs.

One of the key issues with micro coil springs is that they take up valuable space in the mattress that could be better used by premium natural fibers. Manufacturers often use micro coil springs because they are cheaper to produce than traditional pocket springs. This cost-saving measure allows them to market mattresses with a high spring count, but it doesn’t necessarily translate to better comfort or support.

At Winstons, we had a range of mattresses that featured micro coil springs. However, after extensive testing and customer feedback, we discontinued the entire range due to their poor performance. We found that these springs wore out quickly, reduced the mattress’s life span, and did not provide the comfort or durability that our customers expected. We also learned firsthand just how inexpensive these springs are to produce, confirming that their inclusion in a mattress is often more about cutting costs than enhancing comfort.

Innersprings (Bonnell Springs)

Innersprings, or Bonnell springs, are one of the most common types of springs found in mattresses, especially in more affordable options. These springs are shaped like an hourglass and are interconnected, meaning that when one spring is compressed, the others around it are affected. This interconnectedness can result in less individualized support compared to pocket springs.

Bonnell springs do not offer the same level of comfort or pressure relief as calico pocket springs. This type of spring is more suited for those looking for an budget mattress but not for those needing precise support based on body type or sleeping position.

Foam Support Bases

Any mattress that uses foam as a support base should be approached with caution. While foam might be marketed as a comfortable, pressure-relieving material, it’s often used as a cost-cutting measure by manufacturers. Foam bases do not offer the same level of support as spring-based mattresses and tend to break down over time, leading to sagging and loss of support.

Foam mattresses also tend to trap body heat, which can make for an uncomfortable night’s sleep, especially for those who naturally sleep hot. The lack of airflow in foam mattresses can also reduce the life span of the mattress, as the materials degrade faster due to trapped heat and moisture.

At Winstons, we decided to make a foam mattress with the highest specifications on the market, just to prove how poorly they perform compared to traditional mattresses. One thing became clear during this process: foam mattresses were significantly cheaper to produce than natural fiber or pocket spring mattresses. Despite the high specs, the foam mattress still couldn’t match the support, comfort, or durability of our pocket spring mattresses.

When choosing a mattress, the type of springs it contains is a critical factor that affects its comfort, support, and durability. Calico pocket springs, with their intricate hand-tied construction, offer the best support and longevity, making them ideal for those seeking a high-quality mattress. In contrast, micro coil springs, despite their prevalence in some mattresses, offer little in terms of lasting support and should generally be avoided. Innersprings, or Bonnell springs lack the individualized comfort of pocket springs.

It’s also important to steer clear of mattresses that use foam as a support base, as these are typically less durable and offer poor long-term support. Always check the mattress firmness scale and consider your body type and sleeping position when selecting the right spring tension. By understanding the differences in spring types and avoiding lower-quality options like micro coil springs, bonnell springs and foam bases, you can find a mattress that will provide a good night’s sleep for years to come.

What is hand stitching and why is it important?

Hand stitching is a meticulous and time-honored technique used in the construction of high-quality mattresses. This process involves stitching the outer fabric of the mattress directly to the internal springs or coils. Unlike machine stitching, which can be imprecise and less durable, hand stitching is performed by skilled craftspeople who carefully secure each stitch. This ensures the mattress is more robust, particularly around the edges, where extra support is often needed.

One of the main advantages of hand stitching is its ability to reinforce the edges of the mattress. The edges tend to experience more stress over time, especially from regular use when sitting or lying close to the edge. With more rows of hand stitching, the mattress becomes sturdier, offering better edge support. This reinforcement helps prevent sagging and maintains the mattress’s shape, contributing to a longer life span.

The precision of hand stitching also means that the mattress is constructed with greater care and attention to detail. Each stitch is placed with purpose, ensuring that the materials are tightly secured. This meticulous craftsmanship results in a quality mattress that not only feels more substantial but also performs better over time.

In addition to enhancing durability, hand stitching contributes to the overall comfort of the mattress. By keeping the layers of the mattress securely in place, it ensures that the materials work together as intended, providing consistent support and comfort across the entire surface. This makes the mattress more reliable, ensuring you experience a good night’s sleep night after night.

In summary, hand stitching is an essential feature in premium mattresses. It strengthens the mattress, particularly around the edges, increases durability, and enhances overall comfort. For those seeking a good mattress that will last and provide enduring support, hand stitching is a key feature to look for.

What are hand-teased fibers and why are they important?

Hand-teased fibers are a hallmark of luxury mattress construction, contributing significantly to the overall comfort, breathability, and plushness of the mattress. This traditional technique involves manually separating and fluffing the natural fibers used in the mattress, such as wool, cotton, or horsehair, by skilled artisans. The process is labor-intensive and requires a high level of craftsmanship, making it both time-consuming and expensive. However, the result is a superior mattress that stands out in quality and comfort.

Why Hand-Teased Fibers Are Important

Hand-teasing fibers is crucial because it ensures that the fibers are evenly distributed within the mattress. This even distribution prevents clumping, which can occur in machine-processed fibers, leading to uneven surfaces and discomfort over time. By meticulously teasing the fibers by hand, artisans create a more uniform and consistent padding layer. This uniformity enhances the plushness of the mattress, making it incredibly comfortable and soft to lie on.

Additionally, hand-teased fibers improve the breathability of the mattress. Because the fibers are carefully separated and fluffed, they create small air pockets within the padding. These air pockets allow air to circulate more freely throughout the mattress, helping to regulate body heat and maintain a comfortable sleeping temperature. This is particularly important for those who tend to overheat during the night, as a breathable mattress can significantly improve the quality of sleep.

Hand-teasing also preserves the natural resilience of the fibers, allowing them to retain their loft and bounce over time. This resilience means that the mattress will maintain its plush feel and supportive qualities for many years, making it a worthwhile investment in long-term comfort and durability.

Luxurious and Time-Consuming Craftsmanship

The process of hand-teasing fibers is done by skilled artisans who have honed their craft over many years. It’s a meticulous task that requires patience and expertise, as each fiber must be handled carefully to maintain its integrity. Because of the time and skill involved, hand-teased fibers are typically found only in the most luxurious mattresses, such as those we produce.

This level of craftsmanship ensures that the mattress not only feels exceptional but also provides superior support and durability. Hand-teased fibers are one of the key features that set luxury mattresses apart from mass-produced options, making them an ideal choice for those who value comfort and quality.

Why does your sleeping position matter?

Your sleeping position plays a crucial role in determining the feel of a mattress that will provide you with the most comfort. The way you sleep affects how your body interacts with the mattress, influencing how well you sleep and how supported you feel throughout the night.

For example, if you’re a side sleeper, a mattress with a softer feel may be more comfortable because it allows your shoulders and hips to sink in slightly, reducing pressure points. A softer mattress can better contour to the curves of your body, providing relief and support where it’s needed most.

On the other hand, stomach sleepers often benefit from a medium to medium firm mattress, which prevents their body from sinking too much and helps maintain proper spinal alignment.

Back sleepers typically need a balance between soft and firm. A medium soft to medium firm mattress provides enough support to keep the spine aligned while offering enough cushioning to prevent discomfort.

However, it’s important to note that comfort is subjective. Some people may prefer a firm mattress even if they sleep on their side, and that’s perfectly okay. Your personal preference should always guide your choice. The key is to find a mattress that feels good to you and supports your body in your preferred sleeping position.

In summary, while your sleeping position can guide you toward a mattress feel that is generally recommended for comfort, the final choice is subjective. Whether you love a firm mattress as a side sleeper or prefer something softer as a stomach sleeper, what matters most is that the mattress supports your body and helps you get a good night’s rest.

What is spring tension?

Spring tension refers to the firmness or resistance of the springs inside a mattress. It’s a critical component of the mattress’s support system, determining how much the springs compress under your body weight. This ensures that the mattress provides the correct level of support based on your weight, preventing issues like sagging or excessive firmness. It’s important to understand that spring tension is different from mattress feel, which is the immediate comfort you experience from the top layers of the mattress.

Choosing the correct spring tension is essential because it ensures the mattress supports your body properly. The right spring tension allows the mattress to hold your weight comfortably, providing the necessary support without compromising on comfort. To achieve this, manufacturers use different gauges, or thicknesses, of the wire used in the springs.

Here’s how spring tension is typically determined based on weight:

• Soft (1.2mm gauge)
• Medium (1.4mm gauge)
• Firm (1.6mm gauge)
• Extra Firm (1.8mm gauge)

Tolerance, in this context, refers to the range of weights that each spring tension can effectively support. For example, a 1.2mm gauge spring is tolerant up to 155 pounds, meaning it will compress correctly and provide the right amount of support without bottoming out or feeling overly firm. Similarly, a 1.4mm gauge spring is tolerant for weights between 156 and 224 pounds, ensuring the mattress provides balanced support and comfort within this weight range.

The tolerance range is crucial because it ensures that the springs compress to the right degree for your weight, which in turn allows the comfort layers of the mattress to function as intended. If the spring tension is too soft for your weight, the springs will compress too much, leading to a lack of support. Conversely, if the tension is too firm, the springs won’t compress enough, resulting in a harder, less comfortable feel.

To help customers find the right spring tension for their needs, we provide detailed spring tension charts on each product page. These charts clearly outline the appropriate tension based on weight, making it easier for you to choose the correct mattress. This ensures that you receive both the comfort and support necessary for a good night’s sleep.

In summary, spring tension is a vital aspect of a mattress’s support system and should be carefully chosen based on your weight to ensure optimal performance. The gauge of the spring wire determines the tension, and each tension level has a specific tolerance range to support different weights effectively. By referring to our spring tension charts, you can easily find the right tension for your body, ensuring that your mattress provides the perfect balance of comfort and support.

What is mattress feel?

When we talk about “mattress feel,” we’re referring to the initial sensation you experience when lying on a mattress. This is different from the support it provides, which is where spring tension comes into play. The feel of a mattress is dictated by the materials and layers used in its construction. For example, the type of fibers and padding in the top layers determine whether a mattress feels soft, medium, or firm.

At the manufacturing stage, we carefully select and layer materials to achieve a specific feel. This feel is built into the mattress during its construction, which is why we label our mattresses with the intended feel, such as soft, medium, or firm. This labeling helps customers choose the mattress that aligns with their comfort preference.

It’s important not to confuse mattress feel with spring tension. While the feel is about the comfort layer on top, spring tension relates to the support system within the mattress. Spring tension should be chosen based on your weight and sleeping position, as it affects how much the springs compress under your body.

For instance, take our Heritage mattress, which has a soft feel. If you weigh around 210 pounds and sleep on your side, you would need a medium spring tension. This choice is crucial because it ensures the springs compress appropriately under your weight. However, this doesn’t change the overall feel of the mattress. Despite choosing a medium spring tension for support, the mattress will still have a soft feel because the materials in the top layers were designed to create that softness.

In summary, the mattress feel is determined by the fibers and materials used in the comfort layers, giving you the soft, medium, or firm sensation you desire. Spring tension, on the other hand, provides the necessary support based on your body weight and sleeping position. By understanding this distinction, you can make a more informed decision when selecting a mattress, ensuring both comfort and proper support.

In summary

Now that you know what to look for in a pillow top mattress, you’re equipped with the knowledge to find the perfect fit for your needs. When shopping, be sure to ask the retailer about the specific feel of each mattress. If you prefer a softer feel, request to see mattresses that provide that level of comfort. If you experience back pain, a medium-soft pillow top may offer the ideal balance of comfort and support.

By using this information, you greatly increase your chances of finding the right mattress on your first attempt. Our customers who follow this advice are the reason why our return rate is impressively low—less than 1% in the UK and 0% in the USA.

All our products clearly indicate the feel of the mattress, the gsm of the materials used, the number of rows of stitching, and whether the fibers are hand-teased. This means that simply by reviewing the details on each product, you can easily identify the best quality mattress.

With this understanding, you can confidently navigate your options and select a pillow top mattress that will provide the comfort and support you need for a good night’s sleep.

Looking for more information

Explore our expert guides on pillow top mattresses, including “What is a Plush Pillow Top Mattress,” “How Long Does a Pillow Top Mattress Last,” “What is a Pillow Top Mattress” and “What Are the Disadvantages of a Pillow Top Mattress.” These articles provide expert advice on choosing, maintaining, and prolonging the life of your mattress, offering valuable insights to help you make informed decisions for the best possible sleep experience.