Flipping the mattress is one of the most common and trusted ways to extend the lifespan of your sleeping solution. However, it’s no secret that not all mattresses can be flipped. If you own a pillowtop mattress in Singapore, you might be wondering if it is possible to flip it to extend its lifespan or even out the surface.
In this guide, we’ll answer all your questions regarding mattress flipping as well as provide some alternatives to ensure the lasting quality of your bed.
What is a Pillowtop Mattress?
Basically, a pillowtop mattress features softer padding on its uppermost layer that is either made of fibre, foam, or natural padding materials. This additional layer gives the mattress a soft and pillowy feel that many people prefer.
The pillowtop is sewn on top of the main mattress layers, leaving a small gap between it and the mattress comfort layer. As a result, this creates the distinct look and feel of having a big, cushiony pillow on top of the mattress.
This also means that the feel of the mattress on both sides is different.
Is it Okay to Flip a Pillowtop Mattress?
Most pillowtop mattresses should not be flipped because of their one-sided design. As we mentioned earlier, the two sides of a pillowtop mattress have different feels, where the top is usually softer while the other side is firmer.
Your body needs time to adjust to a new sleeping surface, so flipping your pillowtop mattress and sleeping on the firmer side may cause discomfort. Moreover, if a firmer mattress does not fit your sleeping position, you might end up with aches and pains instead of benefiting from the comfort of a pillowtop layer.
Flipping one-sided mattresses can also cause irreversible damage to the sleeping solution. Many pocketed spring and hybrid mattresses feature heavy support layers that are made of firm foam and inner coils. If you flip your mattress, the soft comfort layer will be forced to carry the weight of the heavy springs as well as the weight of the sleeper. The pillowtop layer is not supposed to handle the whole weight of the mattress.
Some pillowtop mattresses also feature cooling gel or open-cell layers that are usually positioned at the upper layers to keep you cool and comfy. Sleeping on a flipped pillowtop mattress places these layers at the bottom, which defeats their purpose.
Why Can’t You Flip a Single-Sided Mattress?
What happens if you flip a single-sided pillowtop mattress?
Basically, a single-sided pillowtop mattress is designed to provide a personalised level of comfort and weight distribution. The pillowtop is meant to provide cushioning for additional comfort and pressure relief, while the firmer base offers excellent weight distribution. In the case of pocketed spring mattresses, the coil layer ensures motion isolation.
When you flip a one-sided pillowtop mattress, you don’t only defeat the purpose of having some specific layers, but you also increase the risk of damage.
The upper layers of a pillowtop mattress are composed of foams and padding that require space to breathe and maintain their quality. Compressing these foam layers will cause dips and deformation.
Unlike Euro-top mattresses, beds with pillowtop layers are more susceptible to damage when flipped since they are stitched as an extra layer on top of the mattress instead of being encased within the mattress cover itself.
Another reason you don’t want to flip a pillowtop mattress is the possible discomfort it can bring to your sleep. When you flip a single-sided mattress, you end up sleeping on the firm support layer rather than the comfortable pillowtop.
How to Determine if Your Pillowtop Mattress Can Be Flipped
Although most pillowtop mattresses are not meant to be flipped, there are instances where doing so can be beneficial for the sleeper and the mattress itself. Here are some ways to determine whether your pillowtop mattress can be flipped or not:
1. Check the Manufacturer Label
There are many double-sided pillowtop mattresses that you can flip and rotate. The easiest way to spot these mattresses is to check the manufacturer’s label or the mattress specifications. If your mattress is double-sided, it should be indicated in the specifications. Otherwise, your mattress is automatically one sided and should not be flipped.
2. Check the Mattress Structure
Another way to determine whether your mattress can be flipped or not is its structure. A pillowtop mattress features a unique design that you can easily recognise. If the structure contains a layer of soft foam followed by a firm support core or innersprings underneath, this means that your mattress is single-sided and should not be flipped.
On the other hand, if the mattress features identical layers on both its upper and lower sides, then your mattress is most likely double-sided and can be flipped.
How to Extend the Lifespan of a Pillowtop Mattress
In case your pillowtop mattress is one-sided and cannot be flipped, you can still extend the lifespan of your sleeping solution by following some easy steps.
Clean Your Mattress Regularly
When you wash and replace your bedding accessories, make sure to also vacuum and spot-clean your mattress to prevent mould and other nasty elements from growing and ruining the quality of your mattress.
Use a Sturdy Mattress Base
Avoid premature mattress sagging by choosing a sturdy bed frame or mattress base. Mattress bases with close slats do a good job of preventing the mattress from sagging in the gaps while still providing enough ventilation.
Rotate Your Mattress Regularly
Some pillowtop mattresses that can’t be flipped can luckily be rotated from head to toe. Doing this can distribute the pressure that the mattress receives, which, in turn, can prevent dips and sagging.
When Should You Replace Your Pillowtop Mattress?
Consider replacing your pillowtop mattress after 6–10 years of use, depending on the quality of its materials. Some signs you need a mattress upgrade include noticeable sagging, discomfort, body aches, allergy symptoms, and a lack of quality sleep.
Investing in a good quality mattress can help you ensure that quality right off the bat.
Takeaway
Some pillowtop mattresses can’t be flipped, but some can be rotated. To extend the quality and comfort of your mattress, it’s good to clean it regularly and understand its structure. It’s also important to buy a premium mattress upfront to guarantee that you get the best sleep that you deserve.
If you’re looking for high-quality mattresses in Singapore, browse through our online collection of pillowtop, Eurotop, and premium pocketed spring mattresses for the best prices.