Pillow blocks are usually referred to the housings which have a bearing fitted into them and thus the user need not purchase the bearings separately. Pillow blocks are usually mounted in cleaner environments and generally are meant for lesser loads of general industry.

The fundamental application of both types is the same which is to mount bearings safely enabling their outer ring to be stationary while allowing rotation of the inner ring. The housing is bolted to a foundation through the holes in the base. Bearing housings are either split type or unsplit type.

Split-type housings are usually two-piece housings where the cap and base can be detached, while certain series are single-piece housings. Various seals are provided to prevent dust and other contaminants from entering the housing. Thus the housing provides a clean environment for the expensive bearings to freely rotate, hence increasing their performance and duty cycle.