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Our team of Certified Sleep Science Coaches have reviewed 600+ mattresses and accessories for over seven years using proprietary analysis and hands-on testing. We assess each bed for support, cooling, firmness, pressure relief and more.
We’ll be going over our list of the best pillow top mattresses, explaining what makes each mattress stand out in durability, comfort, and plush support.
Those who have ever spent the night in a luxury hotel have probably slept on a pillow-top mattress. It usually features supportive coils and then a plush comfort layer of padding that softens the bed and rises above the structure. True to its name, it looks like someone put a giant pillow on top of the mattress. Many different materials can be used in the pillow-top; some of the most common include cotton, wool, fiberfill, memory foam, latex, and down.
This design provides an excellent balance of comfort and support that’s usually good for all three sleeping positions (back, side, and stomach). We have tested hundreds of mattresses throughout the years, and we considered more than 25 different models for this roundup. Ultimately, we decided these 10 models are the best luxury mattresses of 2024. Keep reading to learn more about our top picks.
Our Verdict: What’s the Best Pillow Top Mattress?
Our expert reviewers chose the Saatva Classic as the best pillow top mattress because of its durable materials, cooling ability, and high-end pillow top design.
Pillow top mattresses are known for offering plush comfort, similar to what you might find in a high-end hotel. However, they are not all built the same. They vary in terms of firmness, durability, and overall quality.
Testing a pillow-top mattress in our sleep lab
How We Chose The Best Pillow Top Mattresses
With our testing data on hand, we chose a versatile roundup of pillow-top mattresses that fit a variety of preferences for firmnesses, cooling features, and price points. But we especially looked out for high performance in a few key categories: Edge support, pressure relief, and overall support.
Edge Support
The fluffy nature of pillow top mattresses means that the beds can sometimes lose shape around the edges. We favored beds with strong edge support, which prevents sagging and helps maintain the bed’s structure over the years, giving you more usable sleep surface and making it easier to get in and out of bed.
Pressure Relief
People seeking a pillow-top mattress are often seeking extra pressure relief. As such, our roundup tends to favor pillow-top beds that provide a plush, luxurious feel.
Overall Support
The pillow-tops we recommend all received at least a 4/5 overall support score from mattress testers, indicating the beds use high-quality materials (like dense memory foams and pocketed coils) that offer robust support. The amount of support you’ll get from a pillow-top bed can vary based on your body type and sleep position, so be sure to check that your preferences align.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
The Saatva is a hybrid mattress. This means it has both cushioning foam and supportive coil layers.
Firmness
Multiple firmness options: Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm. On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated the Luxury Firm model a 7/10, which is a bit firmer than average.
Price
$1,295-$2,790 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king, split California king
Stomach Sleepers
Supportive enough for stomach sleepers under 230 lbs.
Back Sleepers
Great support for back sleepers under 300 lbs.
Hot Sleepers
This bed’s cooling features can help keep you from overheating at night.
Pros
The Saatva mattress is a great option for combination sleepers. It is available in multiple firmness options, but the Luxury Firm model works well for multiple sleeping positions.
The Luxury Firm model of the Saatva will work well for most back sleepers. Its balance of comfort and support and zoned construction ensure you’ll sleep in good neutral alignment.
Shoppers looking for a long-lasting mattress will love the Saatva. It feature high-density foam and durable coils that should ensure it lasts for over 10 years.
Cons
If you like the feel of a memory foam mattress, you’re not going to love the feel of the Saatva.
Lightweight side sleepers might not get the best pressure relief, even on the softest Saatva model.
Shipping
Free white glove delivery
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period. A removal fee of $99 will be deducted from your refund.
The Saatva is a luxurious hybrid innerspring mattress that should be a great long-term investment. It is available in multiple firmness options, so it should work for the majority of sleeping positions, and its Luxury Firm model is one of the best mattresses for back sleepers. However, lightweight side sleepers and fans of memory foam should look elsewhere. Learn more in our video review.
Our Expert’s Take
The flagship mattress from Saatva embodies what makes a pillow top mattress so appealing, owing to the caliber of the bed’s materials and construction. The Saatva starts with a base of durable steel coils, with a second micro-coil layer to reinforce the edge, helping the bed excel in our sleep lab in the edge support category (4.5/5). The cream on top of the Saatva Classic? Its memory foam layer and cozy 3” Euro pillow top.
The Saatva Classic comes in three different firmness options. While some side sleepers may think a soft mattress is superior, if you experience back pain, we recommend meeting in the middle with Saatva’s Luxury Firm model, which rates as medium-firm per their metrics (and ours).
What the testers say: “The Saatva is a bed I see as a long term investment for folks who want to bring a high-end hotel feel to their bedroom or a guest bedroom. The Luxury Firm in particular is the model best equipped to make a variety of sleepers feel like they’re living the high life.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About The Saatva Classic
This mattress really exudes luxury. It’s made with high-quality materials and gives off a luxury hotel experience. It’s a great choice if you’re looking to splurge.
Saatva Classic is offered in multiple firmnesses. We tested the Luxury Firm model and found it worked really well for all sleep positions. The comfort layer offered good body contouring, while the coils kept us supported.
The bed shouldn’t trap heat. The coils offer room for airflow, and the outer cover is organic cotton, a breathable and moisture-wicking material.
What To Keep In Mind About The Saatva Classic
Though we love this mattress for its luxury features, it is our best luxury choice. It’s not going to be great for those who are shopping with a strict budget in mind.
Memory foam mattress lovers who love to feel hugged by their bed may not like how bouncy the Saatva Classic is, and should instead look at the brand’s Loom & Leaf foam mattress.
Other User Reviews
The Saatva Classic nets an impressive 4.8 out of 5 stars among 3,300+ reviews. One reviewer wrote that Saatva lives up to the luxury appeal: “I feel like I sleep in a Five Star Luxury Hotel Bed.” Some reviewers experienced issues with Saatva’s delivery partners, who bring the bed to your home already assembled (rather than in a box).
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.6
Helix
Helix Midnight Luxe
Medium-Firm Feel
Motion Isolation
Breathability
Hybrid mattress
100-night sleep trial
Free shipping
Black Friday Sale
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The Helix Midnight Luxe is a hybrid mattress. This means it has both cushioning foam and supportive coil layers.
Firmness
On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated this mattress 6.5/10. This is the industry standard for medium-firm.
Price
$1,373-$2,073 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, short queen, king, California king, RV king
Side Sleepers
Great pressure relief for side sleepers under 230 lbs.
Back Sleepers
Great support for back sleepers under 230 lbs.
Hot Sleepers
This bed’s cooling features can help keep you from overheating at night.
Pros
This bed has a hotel-like feel. The pillow top provides a plush comfort layer to sink into.
The Helix Midnight Luxe sleeps cool. Thanks to its cooling cover and copper-infused memory foam, even hot sleepers shouldn’t worry about overheating on this bed.
Even though it’s a hybrid mattress, this bed has great motion isolation. That means if you co-sleep, you’re less likely to feel your partner’s movements.
Cons
Stomach sleepers probably won’t find this bed supportive enough to keep their spine in proper alignment.
This is a luxury mattress model, so it wouldn’t be considered a budget-buy.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
15-year warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period.
The Helix Midnight Luxe is a premium medium-firm mattress that offers a hotel-like feel for a relatively affordable price. Its zoned support and supportive coil layers make it a great option for back sleepers. It likely isn’t firm enough for most stomach sleepers, though. If you’re looking for a more supportive bed, check out the Titan Plus. Learn more in our video review.
Our Expert’s Take
The Helix Midnight Luxe has a medium-firm feel with plenty of plush comfort in its quilted pillow-top. As soon as they lie down on it, side sleepers should gently sink into the thick memory foam layers and feel a great deal of body-contouring.
The Helix Midnight Luxe has the name “luxe” for a reason. It’s an upgraded version of the standard Midnight mattress from Helix. The cover is designed for cooling, and the coils allow for airflow, so it won’t trap heat.
Speaking of those coils, they have a unique construction called “zoning.” Zoned coils mean they will feel firmer in the center of the mattress, which offers great lumbar support for both back and side sleepers, and could help with some back pain. A recent study found that using a zoned coil mattress even improved sleep quality for participants.
What the testers say: “In my experience, the Helix Midnight Luxe was a good match for side sleeping. The zoning and plush pillow-top relieved most pressure on my shoulders and hips.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About the Helix Midnight Luxe
The comfort layer is very thick and contains memory foam and proprietary responsive foams. This is underneath a soft, quilted cover giving it a pillow-top feel. It should provide impressive pressure relief for side sleepers.
The Midnight Luxe can also work for back sleepers. It features zoned coils which should offer great support for the lumbar area of your back.
This mattress combines both coils and foam. The foam may offer great pressure relief, but the springy coils should make this bed fairly easy to move around on.
What to Keep In Mind About the Helix Midnight Luxe
This is considered one of Helix’s more luxury mattresses. As such, this might be out of range for those who are shopping with a strict budget in mind.
This bed is one of two medium-firm options from Helix. The thick comfort layer of the mattress may not be supportive enough for most stomach sleepers.
Other User Reviews
Helix has over 5,000 published reviews on its website for the Helix Midnight Luxe. The average customer rating is 4.4/5 stars. Customers who left four and five star reviews all praise the Midnight Luxe for its plush comfort layer and cooling capabilities. But while some found cool nights of sleep, a common complaint in the reviews with three stars or less all mentioned that it did run a bit hot. The other main complaint was that the Helix Midnight Luxe was too soft and not firm enough for some.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
The WinkBed is a hybrid mattress. This means it has both cushioning foam and supportive coil layers.
Firmness
Multiple firmness options: Softer, Luxury Firm, and Firmer. On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated the Luxury Firm model a 7/10, which is slightly firmer than the industry standard for medium-firm.
Price
$1,149-$2,049 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
Side Sleepers
Great pressure relief for side sleepers over 130 lbs.
Back Sleepers
Great support for back sleepers under 230 lbs.
Hot Sleepers
This bed’s cooling features can help keep you from overheating at night.
Pros
It has a bouncy, responsive feel. This is great for combination sleepers who benefit from a bed that makes it easy to change positions at night.
The WinkBed features zoned support. With firmer foam at the top and bottom and more cushioning foam in the middle, this bed has excellent lumbar support.
This bed sleeps cool. Thanks to the breathable coils and gel-infused memory foam, hot sleepers can expect a cool night’s rest.
Cons
This isn’t the best option for motion isolation.
The WinkBed doesn’t have a traditional “sink-in” memory foam feel.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period.
The WinkBed is a versatile mattress that provides zoned support and cooling comfort for a fair price. This bed’s excellent responsiveness makes it a good fit for combination sleeper that want a bed that’s easy to move around on. For couples looking for motion isolation, though, this probably isn’t the best choice. Instead, check out the Nectar Premier Copper. Learn more in our video review.
Our Expert’s Take
Sleeping on any pillow top mattress adds a touch of luxury to the bedroom. But if you want to take that luxury to the next level, our testers agreed that The WinkBed, one of the best innerspring mattresses, rises to the occasion.
Like the Saatva, WinkBed offers two sets of individually wrapped coils (a 7.5″ layer and a 2.5″ layer) and several different firmness levels: Softer, Luxury Firm, Firmer, and Plus. We reviewed the Luxury Firm, which has a balance of comfort and support that should appeal to all three sleeping positions. (if you’re a side sleeper who wants one of the softest pillow top mattresses, we recommend you opt for the Softer model). Regardless of which firmness you end up with, you’ll find a perfect balance of comfort and support. The pillow top comfort layer will add the right amount of softness while the coils offer incredible support.
We think back sleepers living with back pain might also benefit from the WinkBed. The coils are zoned, meaning they feel much firmer in the center of the bed. This could offer additional support for the lower area of your back.
What the testers say: “When I was reviewing the WinkBed mattress, I liked how the pillow-top really rose above the mattress. The Luxury Firm model created a very plush sleeping surface. But if you’re on the hunt for a soft pillow top mattress, definitely opt for the soft firmness option.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About the WinkBed Mattress
The WinkBed mattress is offered in multiple firmnesses, and even has a model for heavyweight sleepers. But if you’re on the hunt for a soft pillow top mattress to maximize comfort, opt for the soft model.
The soft model is the best for side sleepers looking for a plush pillow top mattress. The microcoils will allow for a bit more give than the firmer models, meaning this mattress can offer some good pressure relief.
Thanks to the classic innerspring design, this mattress is really easy to move around on. If you’re a combination sleeper, you’re unlikely to feel stuck here.
What to Keep In Mind About the WinkBed Mattress
Because this mattress has two sets of coils within its support layer, it won’t have that slow-moving, all-foam feel to it. If you prefer all-foam beds, I’d consider something other than the WinkBed mattress.
If you sleep with a partner, the WinkBed mattress won’t isolate motion very well. This means that you’ll notice your partner changing positions during the night. Something to be aware of if one, or both of you are light sleepers.
Other User Reviews
With over 8,000 reviews on WinkBed’s website, the WinkBeds mattress has earned an average 4.8/5 star rating from customer reviews. For the most part, the four and five star reviews praise the WinkBed for its support and ease of movement they have on the bed. Some even point out that they don’t have aches and pains anymore. The reviews that had three stars or less mentioned the bed’s firmness. Some had to exchange for the softer model as Luxury Firm or Firm were too firm for them.
Read our full WinkBed mattress reviewto learn more. If you aren’t interested in the WinkBed mattress, check out our list of the best mattressesfor more great options!
DreamCloud – Best Pillow-Top Mattress for Back Sleepers
Best Mattress for Back Sleepers
Mattress Clarity Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.0
DreamCloud
DreamCloud Original
Firm Feel
Responsive
Affordable
Hybrid mattress
365-night sleep trial
Free shipping
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The DreamCloud is a hybrid mattress. This means it has both cushioning foam and supportive coil layers.
Firmness
On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated this mattress 7.5/10. This makes the mattress firmer than average.
Price
$839-$2,178 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
Back Sleepers
Great support for back sleepers under 230 lbs.
Couples
Good balance of motion isolation and responsiveness.
Hot Sleepers
This bed’s cooling features can help keep you from overheating at night.
Pros of the DreamCloud
It is a good option for back sleepers. While it is a bit firmer than average, its balance of comfort and support will keep the spine in neutral alignment.
You shouldn’t be sleeping too hot on this mattress. The breathable cover, gel-infused foam, and airflow-promoting coils should prevent the mattress from trapping heat.
You should never feel stuck in this mattress. The DreamCloud is bouncy and responsive, so you will have no trouble moving around and changing positions.
The DreamCloud is a good value option. Hybrid mattresses can be quite pricey, but the DreamCloud is surprisingly affordable.
Cons of the DreamCloud
Side sleepers will want to find a softer mattress to give them the pressure relief they need.
Fans of the slow-moving memory foam feel won’t get that feeling on the DreamCloud.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
365 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period.
The DreamCloud is a hybrid mattress that offers great support for back sleepers and nice cooling for hot sleepers. Its mix of foam and coils ensures you get the right amount of support, while its breathable materials ensure you don’t sleep too hot. It is a bouncier mattress, and if you prefer more of a memory foam feel, consider the Nectar mattress. Learn more in our video review.
Our Expert’s Take
The DreamCloud falls right in that sweet spot of not-too-firm but not-too-soft, making it a great option for most back sleepers. Unlike stomach sleepers (who we’ll talk about later on this list), back sleepers need a little bit of give in the mattress to allow their hips to sink just below the surface, as this will provide pressure relief while still keeping the spine aligned.
In addition to being good for back sleepers, the springiness of the DreamCloud makes moving around a breeze. If you’re someone who switches sleeping positions throughout the night—also known as a combination sleeper—you should find that the DreamCloud makes it easier to do so. Plus, the breathability of this pillow-top mattress means you likely won’t need to worry about overheating as you switch from one position to another.
What the testers say: “On the DreamCloud, I felt best whenever I slept on my back. Because this mattress has a firmer feel, it offered plenty of lumbar support. My hips sank into the top layer slightly, but my back stayed in a neutral alignment.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About the DreamCloud
Several components of the DreamCloud’s construction contribute to its ability to stay cool as you sleep on it. The cover is made of a luxuriously soft cashmere blend, which makes the surface nice and breathable, while further down in the mattress the layer of individually wrapped coils helps keep heat from getting trapped. Last, the memory foam is infused with a type of gel that helps dissipate heat.
The DreamCloud comes with a very generous lifetime warranty, which covers problems resulting from normal use.
What to Keep in Mind About the DreamCloud
While the DreamCloud is somewhat firm, we don’t recommend it for any stomach sleepers over 130 lb. It likely won’t provide enough support to keep the hips of heavier stomach sleepers from sinking below the mattress surface. Instead, consider a mattress to help keep your hips elevated and your spine aligned, like the Brentwood Home Oceano.
The DreamCloud transfers motion quite a bit, meaning when you sleep with a partner and they toss and turn throughout the night you’re likely to feel these movements on your side of the bed. If you’re a light sleeper, this could be a big problem. Take a look at the Nectar Luxe for a mattress that isolates motion very well.
Other User Reviews
The DreamCloud has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5, based on over 7,000 reviews from the company website. Many people are impressed with the quality of the mattress despite the affordable price. Some customers complain that the mattress is too firm, and the edges do not provide enough support.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.5
Nolah
Nolah Evolution
Multiple Firmnesses
Cooling
Motion Isolation
Hybrid mattress
120-night sleep trial
Free shipping
Black Friday Sale
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The Nolah Evolution is a hybrid mattress, which means it has coils at the bottom and memory foam on top.
Firmness
Multiple firmness options: Plush, Luxury Firm, and Firm. On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated the Luxury Firm model a 6.5/10, which is the industry standard for medium-firm.
Price
$1,499-$3,198 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
Back Sleepers
The Nolah Evolution Hybrid offers great lumbar support for most back sleepers under 300 lb.
Hot Sleepers
This bed has graphite-infused foam, which helps dissipate body heat. It also has coils that promote airflow.
Pros of the Nolah Evolution
It has great cooling features, such as graphite-infused foam and airflow-promoting coils.
Even though it has coils, it isolates motion well. This makes it a great mattress for couples.
It’s available in three firmness levels, so it works for a variety of people.
Cons of the Nolah Evolution
It lacks a slow-moving feel.
It’s not supportive enough for most people who weigh more than 300 lb.
Because it’s a luxurious mattress, it might be too pricey for some people.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period.
The Nolah Evolution Hybrid mattress is available in three firmness levels. The Luxury Firm model works well for many back and side sleepers. This mattress has many cooling features, and it isolates motion well. It’s not a great option for most people who weigh over 300 lb, though. If you fall in this category, you may need more lumbar support. Watch our Nolah Evolution mattress review video to learn more.
Our Expert’s Take
Bed-in-a-box mattresses offer convenience and easy set-up, making them an attractive option for shoppers. These days, the majority of online mattress retailers sell mattresses in a box and have even found ways to compress high-quality mattresses.
The Nolah Evolution is a bed-in-a-box, but don’t worry, you won’t be sacrificing quality for convenience. This bed offers a luxurious pillow top, which adds a layer of softness to the top of the bed. This can be great for sleepers with pain concerns who need a bed that helps cradle sensitive joints.
The Evolution is offered in three firmnesses, and we tested the Luxury Firm option, which is a classic medium firm. It offered really great pressure relief when testers rested on their sides. Testers said they felt good support on their backs, too. It might be too soft for stomach sleepers, but you can always opt for the firm model if that’s your sleeping position.
What the testers say: “I was amazed that such a thick, luxurious mattress could come from a box. During my tests, I was especially impressed by the Nolah Evolution Hybrid’s plush pillow-top. I tested the Luxury Firm, but I was really impressed with the amount of pressure relief I got on this bed.” – Elisa, Reviewer
What We Love About The Nolah Evolution
We tested the Luxury Firm model, but it comes in different firmnesses to fit different needs. Soft is good for lightweight people or side sleepers, luxury firm works best for back sleepers, and firm is better for heavyweight sleepers or stomach sleepers.
Though it comes in a box, the Nolah Evolution is made with some really durable, luxurious materials. This makes it a very long lasting bed.
This bed has been designed to not trap heat. The coils allow for airflow, but there’s even a cooling cover, and the memory foam is designed to not trap heat.
What To Keep In Mind About The Nolah Evolution
This is Nolah’s more luxurious mattress model. And because of that, it costs a bit more than some of the brand’s more affordable models. This is something to keep in mind if you’re shopping on a budget.
While the multiple firmnesses are great, it might be confusing to know which one works best for you. Make sure you keep your bodyweight and sleeping position in mind, which we detailed above, when picking the right firmness.
Other User Reviews
With the reviews published on Nolah’s website, the Nolah Evolution has achieved an impressive average 4.9/5 stars from customer reviews. The happy customers reported a lot of comfort and support from the Nolah Evolution. Those that were unhappy with the Evolution had problems with firmness. Some mentioned that even the softest model felt too firm.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.6
Helix
Helix Dusk Luxe
Medium-Firm Feel
Lumbar Support
Pressure Relief
Hybrid mattress
100-night sleep trial
Free shipping
Black Friday Sale
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The Helix Dusk Luxe is a hybrid mattress. This means it has both cushioning foam and supportive coil layers.
Firmness
being the softest, we rated the Medium model a 6.5/10, which is the industry standard for medium-firm.
Price
$1,373-$2,873 (before discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, short queen, king, California king, RV king
Side Sleepers
This mattress should offer plenty of pressure relief for side sleepers.
Hot Sleepers
This bed shouldn’t trap heat thanks to the coils. You can also opt for a cooling cover.
Heavyweight Sleepers
This mattress has a thick comfort layer and sturdy coils that can handle heavier weights.
Pros of the Helix Dusk Luxe
This is an upgraded version of the Helix Dusk. It offers a thicker comfort layer which can offer more pressure relief for side sleepers.
The coils are zoned, meaning it’s firmer in the center to offer more lumbar support for back sleepers.
The medium-firm feel to this mattress makes it a great choice for a variety of body types.
Cons of the Helix Dusk Luxe
Because this is a luxury version of the base model, it might not fit everyone’s budget.
This mattress is too soft to offer support for stomach sleepers.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
15-year warranty
Returns
Free refunds during the trial period.
If you like the sound of the Helix Dusk, but want a more luxurious version, the Helix Dusk Luxe is the perfect upgrade. It’s a bit softer than the base model, and has a few more features to elevate your sleep. The coils are zoned for extra lumbar support, and the comfort foam is thicker for some added pressure relief.
Our Expert’s Take
The Helix Dusk Luxe provides an elevated level of support specifically designed to accommodate stomach sleepers, which consequently also lends itself to sleepers with back pain. The support system features zoned pocketed coils for added lumbar support, atop a DuraDense foam base layer. With a height of 14”, the bed is slightly taller than the standard model. Our heavier weight mattress testers who are back and side sleepers felt well supported under the robust build.
The mattress furnishes two cover options: a standard Tencel cover or an upgrade to the GlacioTex™ cooling cover for an additional $250. You might also be happy to learn that the mattress earned a perfect score on our edge support test, meaning the perimeter is sturdy enough to lie comfortably on.
What the testers say: “Typically we recommend a medium-firm mattress for sleepers with back pain. A medium-firm bed with zoned support like the Helix Dusk Luxe provides the extra support that you need, with the luxury pillow top to help you get snug.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About The Helix Dusk Luxe
Helix Dusk Luxe scored 4.5 out of 5 or higher in every sleep lab performance category, meaning the bed boasts superior cooling, edge support, and motion isolation, which is a great feature for light sleepers who share a bed.
Part of what gives this mattress fantastic durability also contributes to its strong edge support. You can sleep towards the very edge of the mattress and most likely not have to worry about feeling like you’ll roll off.
What To Keep In Mind About The Helix Dusk Luxe
The Helix Dusk Luxe is one of the brand’s pricier beds, but if you don’t require the cooling features, you may be content with a more modestly priced mattress.
Other User Reviews
Verified buyer Elizabeth S. left one of Helix Dusk Luxe’s 5-star reviews — there are 869 among 1243 total. She wrote: “Exactly what my husband needs in a mattress. Very supportive and has relieved the back pain he was experiencing with our old mattress.” The bed averages 4.5 out of 5 stars in total, and some negative reviews said some sleepers had better luck on Helix Midnight alleviating back pain.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.5
Bear
Bear Elite Hybrid
Medium-Firm Feel
Lifetime Warranty
Sturdy Edges
Hybrid mattress
120-night sleep trial
Free shipping
Black Friday Sale
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The Bear Elite Hybrid is a hybrid mattress. This means it has both cushioning foam and supportive coil layers.
Firmness
Multiple firmness options: Soft, Medium, and Firm. On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated the Medium model a 6.5/10, which is the industry standard for medium-firm.
Price
$1,893-$3,920 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
Side Sleepers
Back Sleepers
Hot Sleepers
Pros of the Bear Elite Hybrid
This mattress offers great value. It’s made with high-quality materials and backed by a lifetime warranty, but available at a relatively affordable price point.
It comes with excellent edge support. The Bear Elite Hybrid’s sturdy perimeter is helpful if you need a stable surface to get in and out of bed.
The bed’s cover and foam layers contain cooling materials to help regulate your body temperature. Its coil layer also promotes plenty of airflow to keep you cool.
Cons of the Bear Elite Hybrid
Doesn’t do the best job of isolating motion.
Likely not supportive enough for sleepers who weigh over 230 lbs.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a full refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period.
The Bear Elite Hybrid is Bear’s most high-end mattress. It offers luxury features, like zoned support and extra height, while still offering the temperature regulation Bear mattresses are known for. Based on our testing results, we’d recommend this mattress to average-weight side and back sleepers, as well as hot sleepers. If you’re looking for a cheaper option, check out the Bear Star Hybrid. Learn more in our video review.
Our Expert’s Take
Bear mattresses are designed with active people in mind, and they all feature this fantastic material called Celliant. Research suggests that this material can helps sleepers with blood circulation and muscle recovery. Celliant is also an especially cooling material, as we’ve found in our mattress lab.
The brand’s highest-end mattress, the Bear Elite Hybrid, has all these cooling and recovery benefits plus a plush pillow top. You’ll get great pressure relief and will wake up feeling recovered on the Bear Elite Hybrid.
The Bear Elite Hybrid is offered in three firmness models, and we tested the medium-firm model. This offered a really great balance of comfort and support and it was nice and springy. It still offered good pressure relief for side sleeping. But if you prefer something softer or firmer, those options are available.
What the testers say: “When I was reviewing the Bear Elite Hybrid, I was a fan of its plush pillow top. Even for a medium-firm bed, it was still nice and plush because of that pillow top. It also offered nice pressure relief, but the mattress also didn’t skimp on support thanks to the coils at the bottom.”– Elisa, Reviewer
What We Love About The Bear Elite Hybrid
Bear uses a special material called Celliant, which is designed to help promote blood flow and muscle recovery. This makes this mattress a great option for those who live quite active lifestyles and want a bed to help them recover after strenuous activity.
Even if you’re not an athlete or someone who is active frequently, the Beat Elite Hybrid is a mattress that blends both comfort and support. It’s bouncy and responsive, making it easy to move around on. But the plush pillow top offers exceptional comfort.
The medium-firm option is a great choice for most back and side sleepers. But if you prefer something softer or firmer, those options are available.
What To Keep In Mind About The Bear Elite Hybrid
Even with a plush pillow top, this is a hybrid bed. Meaning the support layer of this mattress is made up of coils. It won’t isolate motion very well and it’ll be very bouncy.
The Elite Hybrid is truly elite, and with that comes a higher price tag than some other models offered by Bear or other brands. It’s not the best mattress to consider if you’re shopping with a budget in mind.
Other User Reviews
With hundreds of reviews published on Bear’s website, the Bear Elite Hybrid has earned a 4.3/5 star rating from customers. Many of the four and five-star reviews mentioned that the Bear Elite Hybrid offers really good support while still being comfortable enough. However, those that left three stars and lower all deal with firmness and some people either find the firmness they chose to be too soft or too firm.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.0
Brooklyn Bedding
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
Multiple Firmnesses
Affordable
Responsive
Hybrid mattress
120-night trial period
Free shipping
Black Friday Sale
Use code BFRIDAY30 for 30% off sitewide See Details
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature is a hybrid mattress. This means it has both cushioning foam and supportive coil layers.
Firmness
Multiple firmness options: Soft, Medium, and Firm. On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated the Medium model a 6.5/10, which is the industry standard for medium-firm.
Price
$665-$1,599 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, short full, queen, short queen, king, short king, Olympic queen, California king, split California king, RV king
Back Sleepers
Great support for back sleepers under 230 lbs.
Couples
Good balance of motion isolation and responsiveness.
Pros of the Brooklyn Bedding Signature
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature is a budget-friendly mattress. It’s a good fit for shoppers looking for an affordable, versatile bed.
Combination sleepers will find it easy to change positions on this bed. Thanks to its bouncy coil construction, the Signature offers a very responsive surface.
Back and side sleepers under 230 lbs can expect great pressure relief and support on this bed.
Cons of the Brooklyn Bedding Signature
This bed doesn’t provide much motion isolation.
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature isn’t a luxury mattress.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
120 nights
Warranty
10-year warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period. A removal fee of $99 will be deducted from your refund.
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature is an affordable, no-frills bed with a medium-firm feel that should work for a wide variety of sleepers. While it’s made with durable materials and should last up to 10 years, it isn’t the most luxurious option. If you’re looking for a premium bed, check out the Brooklyn Bedding Aurora Luxe. Learn more in our video review.
Our Expert’s Take
Standing at 12” tall, the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid is an excellent value hybrid bed that comes with the addition of an optional plush pillow-top for $300 extra. Given that the best luxury pillow toppers typically cost the same (if not more), you get great value and a pillow top that’s hand-sewn into your mattress. Whether or not you get the upgraded Cloud Pillow Top for added luxury, the bed’s surface has a cool-to-the-touch feel thanks to GlacioTex cover, which uses heat-dissipating fibers, the brand says.The Signature Hybrid rounds out its build with bouncy foam and a layer to prevent sinking too deep, and supportive coils that add airflow — another aspect of the build that makes the bed a great pick for hot sleepers. You can choose among Soft, Medium, and Firm mattress models of the Signature Hybrid.
What the testers say: “The hybrid design of the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid provides the ideal balance of comfort and support, making the bed an especially good fit for side and back sleeping. Plus, with the optional pillow-top, you can get that luxury hotel bed feel.” – Elisa, Reviewer
What We Love About The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
Hybrid mattresses like the Brooklyn Bedding Signature promote airflow within the mattress, so it shouldn’t trap a lot of heat.
The coils give this bed a really springy feel, which is easy to move around on. If you’re a combination sleeper and change positions frequently during the night, this is a great choice to consider.
You can choose your preferred firmness. But regardless of what you choose, the coils at the bottom will prevent you from bottoming out, so it offers good support, too.
What To Keep In Mind About The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
The Brooklyn Bedding Signature is one of the best value hybrids available, but the pillow-top addition raises the price tag a decent amount ($300).
People who like to feel swaddled by the memory foam may not like the bouncier feel of a hybrid mattress like the Brooklyn Bedding Signature. The Nectar Hybrid may be a better choice, which offers the support of coils with a slower-moving memory foam feel on top.
Other User Reviews
Upon our last inspection, the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid had nearly 11,000 reviews, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars. One 5-star reviewer said they “love the pillow top,” including one reviewer who said that the pillow-top is “like sleeping on a cloud.” Negative reviews reported some customer service issues, and trouble finding the right mattress firmness.
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.5
Birch
Birch Natural
Firm Feel
Sustainably Made
Responsive
Latex mattress
100-night sleep trial
Free shipping
Black Friday Sale
Use code BF25 and save 25% off sitewide + 2 free pillows with mattress purchase See Details
The Birch Natural is a latex hybrid mattress. It has both cushioning latex and supportive coil layers.
Firmness
On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest, we rated this mattress 7/10. This is just slightly firmer than average.
Price
$1,498-$2,498 (before any discounts)
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
Stomach Sleepers
Supportive enough for stomach sleepers under 230 lbs.
Back Sleepers
Great support for back sleepers under 230 lbs.
Hot Sleepers
This bed’s cooling features can help keep you from overheating at night.
Pros of the Birch Natural
The Birch Natural is made with sustainable materials that have earned certifications from multiple third-party organizations, including GOTS and GREENGUARD.
Thanks to the latex layer, this bed is a bouncy, responsive mattress. Combination sleepers will appreciate how easy it is to change positions on it.
Ventilated latex and individually wrapped coils make for a breathable, cool night’s rest on this bed. Hot sleepers shouldn’t have to worry about this mattress trapping heat.
Cons of the Birch Natural
This bed is likely too firm to provide the cushioning most side sleepers need.
With such a responsive surface, this mattress won’t offer much motion isolation.
Shipping
Free shipping
Trial Period
100 nights
Warranty
25-year warranty
Returns
You’ll receive a refund if you return your mattress within the trial period, but after a 30-day “break-in” period. A removal fee of $99 will be deducted from your refund.
The Birch Natural is a great option if you’re looking for a sustainable, responsive bed. It features natural latex and individually wrapped coils for comfort and support. Its firmness is best suited to back and stomach sleepers under 230 lbs, though, so side sleeepers should opt for a softer bed, like the Helix Midnight. Learn more in our video review.
Our Expert’s Take
The Birch mattress from Helix is a latex hybrid that contains Talalay latex, which is softer and less dense (though admittedly less durable) than Dunlop latex. But Birch prides itself on using 100% certified organic materials. You can opt for the optional pillow-top and get three more inches of Talalay, as well as some fluffy wool batting, This will offer some added pressure relief that should offer plush comfort to the majority of side sleepers.
All the materials are certified organic, meaning that Birch sources these materials that are grown or harvested in ethical, responsible and sustainable ways. And none of the plant-based materials are grown with harmful chemicals. This makes this mattress a great pillow top choice for eco-conscious shoppers.
What the testers say: “When I spent time with the Birch mattress, I was a fan of its durable, eco-friendly materials. And, it didn’t skimp on support. I felt great on my back and stomach.” – Marten, Lead Reviewer
What We Love About The Birch Mattress
Birch uses certified organic and materials in this mattress. Some people prefer to use natural and organic materials, and having it in your mattress is a huge plus, too.
The Birch mattress works really well for back and stomach sleepers. It’s a bit firmer than medium-firm, but can offer a good amount of comfort and support for both sleeping positions.
Thanks to the use of latex and coils, this mattress is very easy to move around on. This is great for combination sleepers who tend to move around during the night.
What To Keep In Mind About The Birch Mattress
Though we love it for its bouncy feel, this isn’t the mattress for those who are looking for that slow-moving, sinking feeling of an all foam bed.
It’ll likely be too firm for some side sleepers. If you are predominantly a side sleeper, look for something softer or with a memory foam comfort layer.
Other User Reviews
The review section on Birch’s website includes all the products the brand sells, and in total there are over 4,000 reviews, which give Birch as a brand an average of 4.6/5 stars. The reviews about the Birch mattress mention the great support it offers and that people are happy with the safe, organic materials that are used. Those that left low star reviews mention the firmness and how it was too firm, or how the latex foam isn’t as contouring and pressure relieving as they needed it to be.
Pillow-top mattresses provide a pillow-like look and feel to the top of a mattress. Often, pillow-tops are sewn onto the top of the mattress rather than inside of the mattress (unless you’ve got a Euro-Top). They’re great for pressure-relief and contouring and are often made of foam or fiber.
Pillow-Top Mattresses for Heavyweight Sleepers – Over 230 lb
Anyone considering a pillow-top mattress should definitely keep their size and weight in mind because a mattress that works for a lighter person might not be the best mattress for a heavy person. The following pillow-top mattresses should all be a good fit for heavier people, as they all feature supportive coils.
First off, the Saatva HD is made specifically for larger sleepers. It features very high-grade coils and an extra layer of zoned latex, and it is a good match for all three sleeping positions. While the Saatva mattress is not as supportive as the Saatva HD, heavier people might find it to be a better match when side-sleeping.
The WinkBeds innerspring mattress comes in four models with different firmnesses, and the WinkBeds Plus is their mattress made just for larger people. Like the Saatva HD, the WinkBed features extra supportive coils, as well as some zoning, so it should also work for heavier combination sleepers.
One mattress to note that’s not on this list is the Avocado mattress. With the added pillow-top should be a good match for heavier back and side sleepers. The coils and latex hold up the body while back-sleeping, but the plush pillow-top helps relieves pressure while side-sleeping.
Finally, the Bear Star Hybrid is extra-thick, making it a good match for heavier sleepers.
Example of a pillow-top mattress
Pillow-Top vs Euro-Top Mattresses
Category
Pillow-Top Mattress
Euro-Top Mattress
Material
Foam or fiber
Foam or fiber (typically thicker than pillow-top materials)
Construction
Sewn directly on top of the mattress cover
Stitched underneath the mattress cover
Feel
Soft and pillow-like
Firmer around the edges and cushioning towards the center
Best For
Contouring and pressure-relief
Durability and edge support
A pillow-top and euro-top are both top padding layers on a mattress, though the way they are added to the mattress differs. A pillow-top is sewn directly on top of the mattress cover. When it sits on the mattress, there’s a slight gap around the edges and it looks like you’ve laid a large pillow across the surface of the mattress.
A euro-top, on the other hand, is stitched underneath the mattress cover, so the edges line up and it looks more like part of the mattress. Both pillow-tops and euro-tops use the same materials in their construction.
Pillow-tops and euros have different feels because of the different attachment styles. A pillow-top generally feels softer than a euro-top mattress and does a nice job of offering contouring and pressure relief. Euro-tops are generally more durable since they’re attached underneath the cover.
Who Should Choose A Pillow-Top Mattress?
Pillow-top mattresses are fantastic, but they aren’t for everyone. Here are a few types of people who should consider a pillow-top mattress.
Those who need a balance of comfort and support: Anyone who wants a mattress that’s both comfortable and supportive should set their sights on a pillow-top mattress. Most of these beds contain coils that will offer solid support, with the pillow-top offering just a bit of plush comfort without letting sleepers sink in too far.
Combination sleepers: With their balance of comfort and support, pillow-top mattresses should work for combination sleepers who switch positions at night. The coils should provide enough support for stomach- and back-sleeping, and the pillow-top should offer pressure relief for side sleepers.
Fans of hotel mattresses: The majority of mattresses one finds in a luxury hotel are pillow-top mattresses, so those who want to sleep in style every night should consider a pillow-top.
Those who like to sleep on top of their mattress: Pillow-tops provide a soft and plush comfort layer without letting sleepers sink in too far. Anyone who likes to sleep atop the mattress and wants to move around easily is going to like a pillow-top.
Who Should Not Choose a Pillow-Top Mattress?
Hot sleepers: If you sleep particularly hot, you may find that the pillow-top foam or fiber material traps heat.
Back pain: If you’re living with or frequently wake up with back pain, you might not find enough support in a soft pillow top mattress. Instead, check out our list of the best mattresses for back pain.
What To Look For
When shopping for a pillow-top mattress, there are a few factors you will want to keep in mind. We’ll review the main factors below.
Materials
The materials used in the pillow-top mattress you sleep on can largely affect the feel. Here are the different effects they’ll have on the bed.
Latex pillow-tops are good for cooling and creating a responsive feel.
Natural materials like cotton and wool are good for cooling.
Memory foam pillow-tops provide nice motion isolation and pressure relief.
Fiberfill or low-density foams will make the mattress more affordable, but not as high-quality.
Firmness
Pillow-tops are usually added to innerspring mattresses with the purpose of softening. Generally, pillow-top mattresses have a more plush feel, which isn’t going to appeal to every sleeper. If you’re looking for an extra-firm mattress, a pillow-top may not be right for you.
Temperature Regulation
If you’re already a hot sleeper, you’ll want to pay extra-close attention to how well a mattress regulates your body temperature. Adding a pillow-top to an innerspring coil system can make the bed naturally retain more heat than a plain innerspring mattress would, though not as much as an all-foam mattress might.
Inspecting innerspring coils in our sleep lab
Look out for cooling features like a thin, breathable cover, natural materials like cotton or wool that are moisture-wicking, or materials like latex that are naturally more cooling.
Price
Pillow-top mattresses can be more pricey, so you should make sure you set your expectations for how much you may be spending beforehand. If you create a budget before shopping, that can also help you narrow down your options.
In the end, one of these pillow-top mattresses should be an exceptional match for combination sleepers and those who need a balance of comfort and support. Don’t hesitate to leave any questions on our YouTube video if an individual recommendation is needed.
Best Pillow-Top Mattresses FAQs
Are pillow-top mattresses better than memory foam mattresses?
One type of mattress really isn’t better than the other, and it really depends on someone’s preferences. For instance, those who sleep in numerous positions or need more support are going to find that a pillow-top mattress is a better fit. On the other hand, those who need more pressure relief or like to really sink into their mattress are going to prefer a memory foam mattress.
How long will pillow-top mattresses last?
This depends on the exact mattress and the types of materials it contains – if a mattress features low-density foam in its pillow-top, it might not last as long as something with higher-density foam. Also, it depends on the size of the owner – a larger person could put more strain on the mattress and cause it to break down more quickly. That being said, most pillow-top innerspring mattresses should last for between seven and ten years.
What’s the difference between a pillow-top mattress and a hybrid mattress?
The term “hybrid mattress” refers to a broader range of beds made from any combination of materials — primarily foams and coils. The term “pillow-top mattress” is more specific, referring to a bed that has a pillow-top to soften the more supportive coils below. It can still contain foams, latex, or any other materials you might find in a hybrid bed. To put it more succinctly, most pillow-top mattresses are hybrids, but not all hybrid mattresses are pillow-tops.
How can I clean a pillow-top mattress?
If possible, you want to treat a stain as quickly as you can. Pour a bit of liquid detergent onto a sponge or soft washcloth, then gently rub the area that’s been dirtied. Afterward, let it dry on its own. If you want to give the pillow-top mattress a more thorough deep-clean, you can use a vacuum with a bristle accessory to suck up any loose dirt or dust particles, then use a steam cleaner or some white vinegar to treat the stains.
Can you flip a pillow-top mattress?
We recommend refraining from flipping a mattress unless specified by the manufacturer. If you want to extend the lifespan of a mattress, rotate the bed head to foot (180 degrees).
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Marten Carlson
Lead Mattress Reviewer
About Author
Marten has been writing about mattresses and sleep health for six years. He is the lead reviewer at Mattress Clarity where he tests mattresses, bedding, and sleep accessories.
In his role here, Marten’s reviewed over 500 mattresses and 150 sleep accessories (so you can rest assured that if he recommends a product, it’s been put through the wringer in our Austin studio). In addition, he has written more than 400 articles reviewing the quality of sleep and sleep products as well as sleep health. He’s especially interested in the correlation between sleep and mental health.
Marten’s also got a personal stake in sleep health. After writing dozens of pieces on the dangers of sleep apnea, he decided to get tested for the condition. Realizing he did, in fact, suffer from sleep apnea, he immediately started using a CPAP machine. He knows all too well the importance of a healthy night’s sleep and is passionate about helping others get the healthy, restorative sleep they deserve.
He received his bachelor’s degree in Film Production from Denison University and his master’s degree in Film Studies from Emory University.
