Key Takeaways
A plush mattress is one of the softest mattresses available, characterised by a pillow-top layer for an added cushiony feel. This pillow-top is a foam layer stitched onto the mattress, delivering exceptional softness and comfort. Its superior conforming ability moulds to the body’s shape, effectively relieving pressure at key points.
Thanks to its cushioning, this mattress style is particularly favoured by side sleepers and those who enjoy the sensation of sinking into their bed. Discover what truly defines a plush mattress and decide if this mattress comfort suits your preferences.
Plush, Medium or Firm - What's best for you?
The best way to find out if you suit a mattress is simply to try one in-store. However, some general guidelines may help you get started.
Ultra-plush and Plush beds use supersoft foams and added comfort layers. Plush beds are often warmer, as the upper layers envelop more of the body.
A Medium comfort level offers the best of both worlds, combining quality foams without cradling the body too much.
Firm and Ultra-Firm mattresses use dense foams that provide comfort without the sinking-in feeling. These mattresses hold you aloft on the sleep surface instead of cradling you, allowing for a naturally cooler sleep.
Regardless of your comfort option, the Sealy Posturepedic support system remains the same; a Plush mattress will give you the same level of orthopaedic support as a Medium or Firm.
What makes a mattress plush?
A mattress comfort is synonymous with firmness. While some brands use a numeric scale to represent comfort or firmness, Sealy uses terms like Plush, Medium, and Firm.
These terms relate to the comfort layers within the mattress, including foams and the methods used to assemble and layer them. While each of our mattress models differs in support structures and design, they all provide a range of comfort options to suit individual preferences.
Plush models often include supersoft foams and fibers along with a gusseted Euro Top or PillowTop construction. These extra layers of padding sit above the mattress core, offering a smoother transition into the support structure and enhancing cushioning. In comparison, TightTop mattresses have a single, denser surface without the additional padding. An example of this distinction is shown below.
Comfort Vs Support
When shopping for a mattress, it is easy to be confused by terminology and the subtle differences between mattress brands, makes, and models. However, it is important to know that there should be a difference between a mattress’s comfort and the support it offers.
At Sealy, when we mention support, we are referring to the structure beneath the comfort layers – the coils. Whether your mattress is Plush or Firm, the coils beneath the surface remain the same. For example, a Posturepedic Elevate/Elevate Ultra mattress has our AlignSupport coil in every comfort option from softest to firmest.
On the other hand, comfort refers to the cushioning above the coils. An Elevate Medium Plush will vary significantly from an Elevate Firm with different foams and often a different construction style. See the example below where the Firm mattress (on the left) has a TightTop without the gusseted padding on top.
An important point to note is that your mattress should not sacrifice support for comfort. It should be able to offer a Plush/soft feel while maintaining appropriate support needed for your body.
Benefits of a Plush Mattress
1. Improved Circulation
The soft surface of a plush mattress promotes better blood flow by alleviating pressure on key areas of the body, helping to prevent tingling or numbness upon waking up In the morning.
2. Reduced Motion Transfer
Many plush mattresses feature memory foam or hybrid designs that absorb motion, making them ideal for couples by minimizing disruptions from a partner’s movements.
3. Gentle on Joints
Plush mattresses are great for relieving pressure points around the shoulders, hips, and neck. This makes them particularly beneficial for side sleepers, who experience increased joint pressure in these areas. Additionally, individuals with joint pain or arthritis can find relief as the soft surface reduces stress on inflamed or sore joints.
4. Luxurious Feel
With their inviting appearance and indulgent softness, plush mattresses provide a sense of luxury, elevating your bedroom ambience to that of a 5-star hotel.
Who is a Plush mattress best for?
Plush mattresses are a popular choice for side sleepers, as this position exerts extra pressure on areas like the hips and shoulders. The added cushioning of plush models helps to relieve stress in these regions, allowing the body’s heavier parts to rest comfortably without impeding blood circulation. This can lead to fewer disturbances during the night and better overall sleep quality.
These mattresses are also well-suited for older adults who may find firmer surfaces or dense foams less comfortable. Additionally, they are ideal for individuals who tend to feel cold at night, as the plush surface cradles the body, increasing contact and naturally retaining heat for a cozier sleeping experience.
Explore the Sealy Plush Range
FAQs
A plush mattress is often suited to side sleepers who benefit from the extra cushioning on the hips and shoulders. Back and front sleepers may find this level too soft, but this is a highly personal choice. We would always recommend trying the mattresses instore to find your ideal comfort.
While body indentations are normal and may be more visible in plusher models, they do not impact the quality or performance of your mattress. All Sealy Posturepedic mattresses come with a 10-year guarantee for your peace of mind.
A Plush mattress is often suited to side sleepers, while Firmer options are typically ideal for back and front sleepers. This may change depending on personal needs, age, health, and temperature considerations. If you are picking a mattress for a guest bedroom, we would suggest a medium.
