Understanding Pillow Top Mattresses
A pillow top mattress typically ranges in thickness from 12 to 18 inches. The exact thickness can vary depending on the specific brand and model, as well as the materials used. Pillow top mattresses are designed with an extra layer of padding on top, which gives them their characteristic plush feel. This layer can add significant height to the overall mattress.
The Basic Structure of a Pillow Top Mattress
To understand why a pillow top mattress has a certain thickness, it helps to know a bit about its structure. A pillow top mattress consists mainly of two parts: the core mattress and the pillow top layer.
The core mattress usually contains an innerspring system or foam-base, which provides the necessary support. These core mattresses are generally between 8 to 12 inches thick, depending upon the design and intended support level.
The Pillow Top Layer
The pillow top layer is an additional layer of padding stitched onto the top surface of the mattress. This layer usually measures between 2 to 4 inches in thickness. The materials used in the pillow top layer can vary, including memory foam, latex, cotton, wool, or other plush materials. Because this layer is stitched on top, it does add a few inches of height to the mattress overall.
Materials and Their Contribution to Thickness
The materials used in both the core and the pillow top can greatly influence the final thickness of the mattress.
Memory Foam
Memory foam is a popular choice for both the core and pillow top layers of a mattress. Memory foam can conform to your body shape and provide excellent pressure relief. When used in the core, it may add several inches in height, while the pillow top layer made from memory foam generally adds an extra 2 to 4 inches.
Innerspring
Innerspring systems, often used in the core, are generally thicker than foam cores, adding up to 12 inches of height. The pillow top layer is usually slightly thinner when combined with an innerspring core, making the overall mattress height range around 12 to 16 inches.
Latex
Latex is another popular material used in mattresses. It can be used in both the core and the pillow top layer. Latex is known for its durability and oftentimes the mattresses made from latex cores are slightly thinner, ranging between 8 to 10 inches. However, the latex pillow top layer will still add 2 to 4 inches.
Impact of Additional Layers
Some pillow top mattresses feature additional layers, like cooling gels or extra padding for enhanced comfort. These additional features can contribute to the overall thickness, pushing the maximum height to around 18 inches.
Why Thickness Matters
The thickness of a pillow top mattress is not just a trivial feature; it can impact various aspects of your sleep experience, from comfort and support to ease of getting in and out of bed.
Comfort and Support
A thicker mattress tends to provide better comfort and support. The additional layers, especially the plush pillow top, can offer increased cushioning. This is particularly beneficial for side sleepers who may need more padding to alleviate pressure points.
Ease of Getting In and Out of Bed
While a thicker mattress can offer ample comfort, it can complicate getting in and out of bed, especially for shorter people or those with mobility issues. You may need to consider the height of your bed frame and box spring, as the combined height can make the bed quite tall.
Durability
Thicker mattresses usually fare better in durability, especially those with more layers of high-quality materials. Over time, a thicker mattress may maintain its structure and supportive qualities better than a thinner counterpart.
Choosing the Right Thickness
Selecting the right thickness for a pillow top mattress depends on several factors including your body weight, sleeping position, and personal preferences.
Body Weight
Individuals with higher body weights may find a thicker mattress more supportive and comfortable. A thicker mattress with a strong core can better distribute weight and provide consistent support.
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For side sleepers, a thicker pillow top mattress can offer the necessary cushioning for the hips and shoulders. Back sleepers may opt for a medium-thick mattress to maintain spinal alignment, while stomach sleepers generally prefer a thinner mattress to prevent excessive sinking.
Personal Preferences
Your personal comfort preferences will also play a critical role. Some people prefer the plush, luxurious feel of a thicker pillow top, while others might find them too soft or too high. Consider testing mattresses of various thicknesses to see which one feels best to you.
Special Considerations for Pillow Top Mattresses
When you are investing in a pillow top mattress, there are a few other aspects to consider that relate to its thickness and construction.
Bed Accessories
Given the additional height of a pillow top mattress, standard fitted sheets and bed skirts might not fit well. Look for deeper-pocket fitted sheets that can accommodate the increased mattress thickness.
Maintenance
Pillow top mattresses can be difficult to flip, so maintenance usually involves rotating the mattress from head to toe.
Box Spring and Bed Frames
If you’re using a box spring or a platform bed, the added height of the pillow top mattress might make your bed unexpectedly high. Make sure to measure and consider the combined height to ensure it meets your comfort and aesthetic preferences.
Common Misconceptions
Many people have misconceptions about the pillow top mattress, particularly related to its thickness. For instance, some think that a thicker mattress will automatically be softer. While thickness often adds plushness, the materials and construction matter significantly more for the overall feel.
Not Always Softer
A thick mattress does not guarantee softness. Some thick mattresses are built for firm support. Hence, always check the firmness level mentioned by the manufacturer.
Expensive Doesn’t Mean Better
Price alone is not an indicator of the quality or the comfort level that a pillow top mattress can offer. It’s essential to balance cost, comfort, and your specific needs when making a choice.
Finishing Thoughts
Pillow top mattresses can vary in thickness but generally range from 12 to 18 inches. Their structure, consisting of a core and a pillow top layer, contributes significantly to their overall height. Materials used in these layers, such as memory foam, innerspring, or latex, also influence the final measurement.
Choosing the right thickness involves considering factors like body weight, sleeping position, and personal comfort preferences. A thicker mattress often offers more comfort and support but requires careful consideration regarding bed accessories and room aesthetics. Understanding these elements can help you make a more informed decision and ensure a good night’s sleep.
