Key Summary
A plush mattress is one of the softest mattress options available, thanks to the pillow-top layer. A pillow-top is an additional layer of foam sewn on top to provide a softer, luxurious feel. This comfort level has the best conformance, or the ability to mould to your body shape and relieve pressure from the body’s pressure points.
Because of its cushioning qualities, a Plush is often popular amongst side sleepers, older adults, and those who prefer to ‘sink in’ to their mattress. Learn what really makes a mattress ‘plush’, and whether this comfort option is right for you.
Plush, Medium or Firm - What's best for you?
Sealy’s scale of comfort encompasses Ultra Plush and Plush options, followed by Medium, Firm, and Ultra Firm. These options are available in every mattress range and model.
Determining which comfort level is right for you is a process of trial and error. The best way to find out if you suit a mattress is simply to try one in person. However, there are some general guidelines that may help you get started.
What is the difference?
Ultra Plush and Plush make use of 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.
Firm and Ultra Firm mattresses utilise dense foams that provide comfort without the sinking-in feeling. These mattresses usually 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 does this mean?
Sealy Ultra Plush vs. Ultra Firm
What makes a mattress Plush?
The comfort of a mattress is synonymous with firmness. While some brands use a numeric scale to represent comfort or firmness, we use terms like Plush, Medium and Firm.
These terms refer to the types of comfort layers used inside the mattress, such as foams, and the ways they are assembled and layered. There are many different ways to incorporate foams and exotic fibres into a mattress in order to give it a soft feel. Each of our mattress models vary in terms of their support structures and designs, but they all offer a variety of comfort options to choose from.
In addition to supersoft foams and fibres, Plush and Ultra Plush models usually feature a gusseted, EuroTop or PillowTop construction. These are the extra sections of padding above the core of the mattress, designed to transition you into the support structure and provide additional cushioning. In contrast, TightTop mattresses have a single surface that is denser, without the added padding. You can see an example of this 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. It is important to know, however, that there should be a difference between the comfort of a mattress 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 a Plush or a Firm, the coils beneath the surface remain the same. For example, a Posturepedic Elevate 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 Plush will vary significantly from an Elevate Firm with different foams and often a different construction style. See the example above where the Firm mattress (on the right) has a TightTop without the gusseted padding on top.
The important point to note is that your mattress should not sacrifice support for comfort. It should be able to offer a Plush feel while maintaining appropriate support for your body.
What are the Benefits of a Plush Mattress?
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Better Circulation
The softness of a plush mattress can promote better blood flow by reducing pressure on critical areas of the body, which can prevent tingling or numbness when one wakes up. -
Reduced Motion Transfer
Many plush mattresses have memory foam or hybrid designs that absorb motion. This is great for couples, as it minimizes disturbances from a partner’s movements. -
Gentle on joints
Plush mattresses relieve pain points around the shoulders, hips, and neck. This is particularly beneficial for side sleepers, as lying on the side places more pressure on those joints. People with joint pain or arthritis can also benefit from the pressure-relieving qualities of a plush mattress, which minimizes stress on sore or inflamed areas. -
Luxurious soft feeling
Plush mattresses often have a visually appealing, inviting appearance and feel indulgent, making your bedroom feel like a 5-star hotel.
Who is a Plush mattress best for?
These softer options are popular with side sleepers, as their sleep position naturally places more stress on the body’s pressure points, especially the hips and shoulders. We have an article for side sleepers on what to look for in a mattress to ensure you remain comfortable and supported. The added cushioning allows the body’s heaviest points to rest without constricting blood flow, reducing tossing and turning throughout the night.
Plush mattresses are also ideal for older adults who feel uncomfortable with harder surfaces or denser foams. They are also good for sleepers who often feel cold at night, as a Plush tends to envelop the body as you sink in. This naturally traps more heat as the mattress stays in contact with more of your body.
Plush mattress pros and cons
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The Sealy Plush range
Ready to Experience Plush Comfort?
If your questions have been answered and you’re ready to indulge in unmatched comfort and support, explore our luxurious selection of plush
mattresses in the Sealy range. With options to suit every preference and budget, you’re sure to find the perfect fit for your needs.
Plush mattress FAQs
Is a plush mattress good for your back?
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. It is best to try mattress options in person.
Is it better to sleep on firm or plush mattress?
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. It is always best to try mattress options in person.
Is it better to have a medium or plush mattress?
A Plush mattress is often suited to side sleepers, while Firm and Medium options are typically ideal for back and front sleepers. This may change depending on personal needs and temperature considerations. It is always best to try mattress options in person. For guest rooms, a Medium is often preferred.
Is plush better for side sleepers?
Plush mattresses are better for side sleepers because they offer more pressure relief for major pressure points such as the hips, shoulders and legs. This is helpful for side sleepers who may experience tossing and turning throughout the night due to discomfort.
Do plush mattresses wear out faster?
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 Australia mattresses come with a 10-year warranty for your peace of mind.
Can I make a plush mattress firmer?
Unfortunately, there is no quick fix for firming up a plush mattress. Mattress toppers are frequently recommended, but adding a firmer layer that conforms to the softer layers below would not significantly change the comfort level. Mattress upholstery should be layered from the firmest to the softest for a mattress to perform properly.
If you have purchased a Sealy Posturepedic mattress in the past five years and have changed your mind about comfort preferences, Sealy offers a comfort adjustment service for your mattress. To learn more, please contact our customer care team, who will be able to advise you on the process.
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