What Is a Euro-Top Mattress? (2024)

Updated: November 4, 2024

Euro-top mattresses are a type of pillow-top mattress. This is a mattress that includes an extra layer of cushioning on top. The term “Euro-top” comes from how the cushioning’s flat appearance makes it resemble a European mattress.

In this article, you’ll learn all about Euro-top mattresses and how they’re different from a standard pillow-top. Whether you’re looking for a new bed or just curious to learn more, we’ll help you decide whether a Euro-top is right for you.

 

 

About Euro-Top Mattresses

Unlike regular pillow-top mattresses, which have a cushioning layer sewn directly on top, Euro-top mattresses have a comfort layer beneath the mattress cover for a more sleek and flush appearance.

Although the name is inspired by the look of European mattresses, the two types are very different. European mattresses are known to be quite firm and focus more on structure than comfort. In contrast, Euro-top mattresses prioritize comfort and support, and offer more cushioning than traditional European beds.

READ MORE: What are the different types of mattresses?

The top cushioning layer is typically crafted with a foam or fibre-fill material designed to contour your body. This gives an additional comfort layer on top of the mattress, which is usually an innerspring or hybrid construction.

Because the comfort layer is sewn into the mattress and under the top cover, Euro-tops are level with the rest of the mattress layers. This gives Euro-tops a flatter top and evenly squared sides that will fit snugly with your mattress protector or sheets. 

Euro-top mattresses tend to be firmer because the mattress cover pulls the comfort layer down more tightly than a traditional pillow-top. The flush edges and integrated comfort layer also provide strong edge support if you sleep near or sit on the edges of your bed.

Firmer mattresses are more supportive in general, making them a good choice for stomach and back sleepers. Side sleepers will enjoy the plushness of the comfort layer while still receiving support where they need it, though they might prefer the additional softness of a pillow-top.

 

 

Euro-Top Mattress Pros and Cons

 

Pros

• Luxurious and soft feel while still being supportive
• Relieves pressure points
• Strong edge support
• Durable and long-lasting
• Sleek look 
• Your sheets fit more snugly

Cons

• Not as plush as a pillow-top mattress
• Poorly made options won’t contour as well to your body

 

What’s the Difference Between Euro-Top and Pillow-Top Mattresses?

A pillow-top mattress features a soft, cushioning comfort layer sewn directly onto the top cover. This construction creates a small gap between the mattress top and the comfort layer, resulting in a rounded, plush surface.

This often results in pillow-top mattresses being taller than regular mattresses, which means you’ll need to use deeply pocketed fitted sheets. The gap between the top of the mattress and the comfort layer could also mean that your sheets might not fit as snugly. 

Pillow-tops are ideal if you’re seeking extra plushness. The comfort layer creates a “hugging” feeling as it contours around your body. The softer filler materials are also more comfortable if you are a side sleeper or have a lighter body weight.

READ MORE: How to choose a mattress

 

 

Pillow-Top Mattress Pros and Cons

 

Pros

• Softer and more plush feel
• Relieves pressure points 
• Good for more lightweight sleepers

Cons

• Less durable than Euro-tops 
• Less edge support 
• Sheets and mattress protectors won’t fit as well 
• The added height could mean you need to purchase deeper pocketed fitted sheets 

 

So, how do Euro-top vs pillow-top mattresses compare?

 

 

There are similarities and differences between Euro-tops and normal pillow-tops. Both offer more plush contouring and comfort than tight-top innerspring or hybrid mattresses. The most distinct difference between a Euro-top and a pillow-top is the look and feel of the mattress. 

A Euro-top‘s comfort layer is sewn underneath the mattress cover and integrated into the mattress for flush edges and a firmer and more supportive feel. Pillow-tops, on the other hand, have their comfort layer sewn onto the top of a mattress cover, creating a more rounded look with a soft and plush feel. 

Euro-tops can last longer, too. Because the comfort layer on a Euro-top is sewn directly into the mattress, it won’t wear out as easily, and the filling won’t shift around or become lumpy. 

Euro-tops may also have better edge support. The comfort layer is pulled taut and firmer filler materials are used in construction, which makes it easier for you to sit or sleep on the edge of the bed. The plush and lifted nature of the pillow-top‘s comfort layer makes for a squishier and less supportive edge. 

When it comes to cleaning your mattress, you may find it easier to spot-clean a Euro-top since the surface is firmer. This makes the surface more stable and prevents the filler from moving around while you’re scrubbing the top.

Because of the additional comfort layer, both pillow- and Euro-top mattresses can be more expensive than tight-top innerspring or all-foam mattresses. However, brands like Logan & Cove are creating high-quality and luxurious Euro-top mattresses at affordable prices (starting at just $999).

 

 

Who Should Sleep On a Euro-Top Mattress?

A Euro-top mattress might be right for you if….

• You’re looking for an extra layer of comfort. Euro-top mattresses offer comfort and plushness without compromising on body alignment and responsiveness. Logan & Cove Frontier, our top pick in 2024 for Euro-top mattresses, contains cooling gel nanofibres and foam in its comfort layer for a cool and comfortable sleep.
• You’re looking for a firmer mattress. While pillow-tops are a good choice if you’re looking for a mattress you can sink into, Euro-tops provide a better balance between comfort and support. Logan & Cove Frontier, for example, is a medium-firm Euro-top mattress designed to cater to a wide variety of sleep styles. 
• You’re looking for a durable mattress whose comfort layer won’t flatten or wear out over time. The cushioning in Euro-top mattresses is sewn directly below the cover, so this type of mattress lasts a long time. Logan & Cove Frontier’s 15-year warranty also means the cover (and the rest of the mattress) will last for years to come. 
• You’re looking for a mattress with good edge support. Euro-top mattresses offer good edge support, thanks to their firmer filling materials and unified flush stitching. If you like to sleep close to the edge of your bed or sit on your bed a lot, then a Euro-top could be a good choice for you. Logan & Cove Frontier scored a 7.3/10 for edge support when tested by third-party engineers—a higher-than-average score that means you’ll be well supported on the edge of the bed.
• You have a heavier body weight. If you weigh more than 230 lb, you may sink too deep into a pillow-top, leaving you feeling stuck in bed. A Euro-top is comfortable without being so soft that it completely envelops you. Logan & Cove Frontier can support up to 500 lb, or 250 lb on each side.

 

 

FAQ

Are Euro-top mattresses good?

Yes, Euro-top mattresses are a great choice for many sleepers. They’re plush but supportive, and they have a luxurious feel.

Our pick for the best Euro-top mattress in Canada is Logan & Cove Frontier. Frontier features luxury comfort without the premium price tag—just $1,299 for a queen size. It also comes with a free bedding bundle, a 365-night sleep trial, and a 15-year warranty, giving you even more value with your purchase.

READ MORE: Best Euro-Top Mattresses in Canada

 

Is a Euro-top mattress firm?

Euro-tops are designed to offer both softness and support, so they tend to be firmer than a traditional pillow-top. The comfort layer in a Euro-top mattress is integrated and sewn flush beneath the mattress cover, providing a more supportive and sturdy feel.

 

Can you flip a Euro-top mattress?

No, you can’t flip a Euro-top mattress because the comfort layer is only on one side. Instead of flipping your mattress, rotate it 180 degrees every few months. This will evenly distribute wear and tear, which will help your mattress last longer.

 

How long does a Euro-top mattress last?

Most mattresses have a lifespan of about 8–10 years with regular wear and tear. A Euro-top mattress may last longer than a traditional pillow-top mattress due to its integrated construction.

With proper care and maintenance, you can expect a Euro-top mattress like Frontier to stay sturdy and supportive for many years—especially with the mattress’s 15-year warranty.

READ MORE: How long should a mattress last?

 

Are Euro-top mattresses good for side sleepers?

Yes, Euro-tops work well for side sleepers. This is because they have extra cushioning that helps relieve pressure on the hips and shoulders. Lightweight side sleepers, however, may enjoy the extra plushness provided by a pillow-top mattress.

 

Do Euro-top mattresses sag?

With proper support and regular rotations—180 degrees every three months or so—your Euro-top mattress shouldn’t sag prematurely. Regular maintenance ensures even wear and tear, allowing the mattress to provide consistent support over a long period.

 

Is a Euro-top mattress good for back pain?

Many sleepers find that Euro-top mattresses help with their back pain. Euro-tops typically feel firmer compared to traditional pillow-tops, offering better support for back sleepers. The integrated comfort layer provides a balance of softness and support, helping to maintain spinal alignment and relieve ongoing pain symptoms.

 

Can you use a pillow topper or mattress pad with a Euro-top mattress?

You can, but it may not be the solution you’re looking for. Mattress toppers will conform to the shape of your current mattress. If your current Euro-top mattress is sagging or feels unsupportive, it may simply be time for a replacement.

You should also keep in mind that using a mattress topper can keep you from enjoying some of your mattress’s cooling and comfort features.