Mattress shopping can feel like stepping onto another planet. There are so many choices, layers, and a million ways to describe "soft" — it's enough to make anyone want to keep their old lumpy mattress forever.
Among all those options, two plush styles often catch the eye (and tempt the nap): pillow tops and Euro tops. Both promise extra cushioning and a luxurious feel, but what actually sets them apart from each other?
That's where our experts at Hamlin & Kersey come in. With the right guidance, we can help make sense of those top layers and find the perfect match for any sleep style!
What Is a Pillow Top?
If you’ve ever thought a mattress looked extra puffy — almost like a big marshmallow — that’s a pillow top! It has an added layer of soft cushioning sewn onto the top, like a fluffy jacket.
That plush top layer (usually foam, fiberfill, or latex) gives you that dreamy “sink-in” feel. It’s like getting a big, comfy hug every time you lie down.
- Super soft, cloud-like feel: Great if you love that plush, enveloping sensation.
- Excellent pressure relief: Perfect for side sleepers with sore hips or shoulders.
- Distinct, puffy look: It stands out with a big, cushy surface.
- Can be less supportive on the edges: They might sag more over time.
- May wear faster: Body impressions can form sooner than on firmer tops.
For many, that dreamy softness is worth the trade-offs. If you want to feel like you're sleeping on a giant pillow, this might be your perfect match.
What Is a Euro Top?
Now, if a pillow top is like a big puffy jacket, a Euro top is more like a sleek, well-fitted blazer—still comfy but just a little more put together.
A Euro top also has an extra layer of cushioning, but unlike a pillow top, it's sewn flush with the edges of the mattress. Instead of sitting on top like a separate pillow, it's tucked neatly underneath the cover, creating a smooth, uniform look. This design doesn't just look fancy — it also tends to feel a bit more supportive and even across the surface. You'll still get some plushness, but with less of that ultra-deep sink.
- Smooth, streamlined appearance: No big puffy layer sticking out.
- Slightly firmer feel overall: Still soft, but with better support and a more balanced surface.
- Better edge support: Tends to hold up well around the sides, making it easier to sit or sleep near the edge.
- Luxury hotel vibe: Often used in high-end mattresses for that clean, modern look.
- Generally more durable: Less prone to deep body impressions over time.
If you want plush comfort without feeling like you're sinking into a giant marshmallow, a Euro top could be your mattress type.
How Do They Compare?
So you know what each one is — but which one actually fits your life? Let's break it down with some real-world scenarios to help you decide without needing a nap mid-decision.
- What is your preferred sleep position? If you're a side sleeper, you might love that deep, squishy comfort of a pillow top. It cradles your hips and shoulders, making pressure points practically vanish. But if you tend to sleep more on your stomach or back, a Euro top offers a more balanced, slightly firmer surface that helps keep your spine in check and stops you from sinking too deep.
- Do you share a bed with someone? A Euro top's stable, uniform surface can help avoid that "rolling toward each other" sinkhole effect that sometimes happens with pillow tops.
- Does your bed see a lot of activity? If you want a mattress that looks and feels good for as long as possible, a Euro top usually wins for durability. Its sturdy design stands up better to years of nightly flopping, jumping kids, or the occasional breakfast-in-bed disaster.
- Do you find yourself sitting on the edge of your bed? Euro tops handle edge sitting better and won't give you that "about to slide off" feeling.
- What style are you going for? Love that fluffy, "jump into a cloud" vibe? Pillow tops bring the extra cozy, inviting look. Prefer a sleek, luxury hotel feel? Euro tops look smooth, tailored, and modern.
Focusing on how you actually use your bed — not just how it's built—will help you pick the comfort layer that truly matches your life (and your sleep personality).
Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing between a pillow top and a Euro top depends on how you sleep and how you want your bed to feel. Let's break it down so you can easily make the right decision!
| Pillow Top | Euro Top |
|---|---|
| ✅ Sleep mostly on your side and want extra cushion for shoulders and hips. | ✅ Sleep on your back or stomach and want more balanced support. |
| ✅ Love that soft, super plush “sink-in” feel — like a giant, cozy hug. | ✅ Share your bed with a partner, a pet, or a kid who steals the covers — more stable surface and better edge support. |
| ✅ Don’t mind a little less edge support or potential for body impressions over time. | ✅ Want a sleeker, more modern hotel-style look. |
| ✅ Prefer a classic, puffy, inviting mattress look. | ✅ Care about long-term durability and a mattress that holds its shape longer. |
Rest Easy, Really
Picking a mattress shouldn’t feel like taking a big, stressful test. It’s all about finding that perfect balance of comfort and support, so you actually enjoy waking up — not just make it through the night.
Our experts at Hamlin & Kersey are ready to help match each sleeper with the right mattress, whether it's a plush pillow top, a sleek Euro top, or something completely different. Have questions? Reach out anytime or stop in and chat with the team.