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The right pillow can truly make or break how well you sleep at night. Once you find the best pillow for your needs, it's blissful to crawl into bed and lay your head upon a soft, fluffy, and supportive pillow. That said, the best pillow is highly personal and will depend on your preferred sleep position, body type, and specific sleep concerns.
We tested 30 different pillows filled with down, down-alternative materials, latex, foam and even ones with unexpected materials, like buckwheat, silk, and bamboo, and spoke to several sleep experts for this guide to find the very best pillows. Our top pick is the Coop Sleep Goods Original Pillow, which we think will appeal to the largest variety of sleepers because of its adjustable shredded memory foam fill. For a down-alternative option, our team loves the Casper Original Pillow as a great choice for side sleepers because it's soft and fluffy while offering support.
Whatever you choose, the sleep experts we spoke to recommend picking your pillow with the same care and research you would devote to selecting the best mattress for your room. "A good pillow is absolutely a top priority," said Dr. Rebecca Robbins, sleep researcher, author, and instructor in medicine at Harvard Medical School and associate scientist at the Brigham and Women's Hospital.
Find out more about how Insider Reviews tests and reviews home products.
Best overall: Coop Sleep Goods Original Pillow - See at Amazon
Best budget: Beckham Hotel Collection Gel Pillow (Set of 2) - See at Amazon
Best for side sleepers: Casper Original Pillow - See at Amazon
Best for back sleepers: The Saatva Latex Pillow - See at Saatva
Best for stomach sleepers: Parachute Down-Alternative Pillow, Soft - See at Parachute
Best for neck pain: Layla Kapok Pillow - See at Layla
Best down: Brooklinen Down Pillow - See at Brooklinen
Best customizable: Pluto Pillow - See at Pluto
Best hotel: The Marriott Pillow - See at Amazon
Best buckwheat: Turmerry Sobakawa Buckwheat Pillow - See at Turmerry
The Coop Sleep Goods Original Pillow offers thoughtful features like adjustable fill, a washable pillow cover, and an unparalleled 100-night trial that make it the best choice for most people.
Shop at Amazon Shop at Walmart Shop at Coop Sleep Goods What we likeCompletely customizable with removable fill
Comes with additional fill if you prefer a firmer pillow
Comes with a washable encasement
Hypoallergenic
5-year warranty
100-night trial
Testers in previous reviews thought it arrived with a slightly funny smell
Not the best choice if you don't like memory foam
On the firmer side
Specifics
Fill:
Shredded memory foam and microfiberFirmness:
Adjustable, but on the firmer sideSizes:
Queen (20" x 30") and king (20" x 36")Best for:
Back, side, and stomach sleepers who like the feel of memory foamIt's rare to come across a product as thoughtfully designed as the Coop Sleep Goods Original Pillow. Made from hypoallergenic shredded memory foam, the Coop pillow has an adjustable fill so you can customize it to the perfect loft for your sleep preferences. Other thoughtful features like a washable cover, 5-year warranty, and 100-night trial make it our top recommendation.
When you open the box, a bright yellow insert walks you through how to customize the pillow and suggests how much fill to add or remove (it's more than you think) based on your preferred sleeping position. While the pillow arrives almost overfilled, it also comes with a half-pound bag of additional stuffing in case you need even more support.
I followed the package recommendations to remove about a third of the fill for back sleepers. The result felt deeply personalized, and it was very comfortable to sleep on with an outstanding balance of support and fluff.
The adjustable loft of the Coop Sleep Goods Original Pillow makes it the best option for most people.
Lauren Savoie/Business Insider
We think most people will love the customization, especially if you prefer the springy feel of memory foam.
The brand has also released more adjustable shapes targeted for side and back sleepers and a body pillow, which tops our guide to the best body pillows.
One drawback? If you favor a softer, more down-like fill (like I do), you may find the Coop Original pillow is on the firmer side and tends to get a bit hot during the night. However, the more premium Coop Eden pillow uses gel-infused memory foam and microfiber to sleep cooler and has a plusher, soft fill that mimics the feeling of down. COOP also just launched its first adjustable down-alternative design, The Essence, with a microfiber fill that is sold as a two-pack. We're in the process of trying it out for ourselves.
Read our full review of Coop Home Goods' The Original Pillow.
The Beckham Hotel Collection Gel Pillows are an inexpensive option that still offers a comfortable, supportive night's sleep. Check the coupon box for 40% off.
Shop at Amazon Shop at Walmart What we likeInexpensive
Soft and stackable
Sleeps relatively cool
Machine washable
Good for stomach and back sleepers
30-day return window
Hypoallergenic
Side sleepers will likely need two or more of these pillows
Pillows are not adjustable
Specifics
Fill:
Gel fiber down alternativeFirmness:
ModerateSizes:
Queen (20" x 24") and king (20" x 28")Best for:
Stomach and back sleepersIf you're the type of person who can fall asleep just about anywhere or you're primarily concerned about price, the Beckham Hotel Collection Gel Pillow is the best bang for your buck.
These pillows are on the thinner side but have a gentle, down-like plushness that sets them apart from other inexpensive pillows I've tried. While they're more squishy than supportive, they're a good choice for stomach sleepers, back sleepers, and anyone who likes to hug, fold, or stack their pillows at night.
I've spent several months sleeping with these pillows on and off, and they haven't gone flat or gotten lumpy. They are a little less lofty and bouncy than when I first got them, but I like that they have a more lived-in feel.
The Beckham Hotel Collection Gel Pillows are inexpensive and have a plush, premium feel.
Lauren Savoie/Business Insider
"Gel pillow" is a bit of a misnomer; there's no liquid or cooling gel in these pillows like there is in some other cooling pillows. Instead, these pillows are filled with hypoallergenic polyester gel fiber, similar to a down alternative in both feel and performance. Compared to denser materials like memory foam, the pillows stay relatively cool but stop short of actively cooling you.
While these pillows aren't adjustable, each pack comes with two pillows, so you can easily stack them to your desired comfort level. The company also offers a 30-day satisfaction guarantee — a rarity for Amazon-only pillow brands.
The Casper Original Pillow is the best pillow we've tested for side sleepers, balancing loft and support with the soft and fluffy feel of a down alternative.
Shop at Amazon Shop at Casper What we likeSoft and fluffy
2-inch gusset that provides support for side sleepers
Removable inner pillow
Machine washable
100-night trial period
Loft is not very adjustable
Not as supportive as memory foam
Specifics
Fill:
Polyester microfiberFirmness:
ModerateSizes:
Standard (18" x 26") and king (18" x 34")Best for:
Side sleepersA good pillow aims to align your neck with the rest of your spine. For side sleepers, this means bridging the gap between your ear and where your shoulder meets the mattress. But shoulder size and height can vary a lot from person to person, meaning one side sleeper might need a lofty pillow while another needs just a little lift.
The Coop pillow (our pick for best pillow overall) is ideal for side sleepers because it offers a lot of customization to help fill that gap, which is why we also named it top overall pick in our guide to the best pillow for side sleepers. But if you prefer the soft bouyant feel of down-alternative, you'll love the Casper Original Pillow.
Made from down-alternative hypoallergenic fill with a percale cotton shell, the Casper pillow feels much like the soft, plush pillows you'd find in hotel rooms. A 2-inch gusset (the strip of fabric between seams that gives the pillow a more boxy shape) keeps the pillow lofted for the supportive lift that side sleepers require, but the plush fill still provides the "sinking in" sensation when you lay your head down.
The high loft of the Casper Original Pillow makes it a great choice for side sleepers, though back sleepers often enjoy it too.
Lauren Savoie/Business Insider
Senior home editor Jaclyn Turner has slept on the Casper Original Pillow for over a year. She is a combo sleeper between back and side sleeping and most appreciates how it has never lost its loft and provides the plush support she craves.
Another one of the side sleepers who tried the pillow over several weeks also loved that it stayed cool throughout the night and kept its shape despite its softer fill. If you want a balance of support and softness, we recommend giving the Casper Original Pillow a try; just keep in mind that it's not as customizable or adjustable as other pillows.
Read our full review of the Casper Original Pillow.
Luxuriously plush, The Saatva Pillow offers an ultra comfortable, hotel-like experience and is particularly well-suited to back sleepers.
Shop at Saatva What we likePlush like a hotel pillow
Supportive latex core
45-day trial period
Moderate height that's ideal for back sleepers
Comes with a pillow cover
Cover and outer pillow are machine washable
Not adjustable
Too lofty for stomach sleepers
Specifics
Fill:
Shredded Talalay latexFirmness:
Moderate-softSizes:
Queen (18" x 28") and king (18" x 34")Best for:
Back sleepersThe Saatva Pillow has a supportive shredded latex core surrounded by a plush, down alternative layer and a sateen cotton liner. Its unique construction makes it different from any pillow I've ever felt before — it's got the hefty weight and support of a memory foam pillow but with the plush, cool feel of a down pillow.
It's available in a standard loft roughly 4-5" high and suggested for back and stomach sleepers, as well as a high loft of 6-7" high for side sleepers and those who require more plush pillows.
I kept coming back to this pillow throughout testing, and it quickly became my go-to for nights when I wasn't actively testing anything new.
With a moderate height and a hefty feel, the Saatva Latex Pillow offers the perfect plushness for back sleepers.
Lauren Savoie/Business Insider
I've now been sleeping on this pillow for five months. I love how my head sinks into this soft pillow, but it's still supportive enough to keep its shape all night long. When I wake up, the pillow looks just as plush as when I fell asleep.
I'm a very active sleeper who likes to move around a lot in bed and take my bedding with me, so I love that the pillow is equally plush and comfortable from all sides and angles. It's still soft and supportive when I inevitably fold it, scoop it, or hug it throughout the night. It's dense but quickly goes back to its original shape. Finally, it's hypoallergenic, which is a must for allergy sufferers like myself.
Multiple stomach sleepers who tried the pillow as part of our testing found it too lofty, even with the inner core removed. Some side sleepers might also find the pillow not quite lofty enough; we think it's best for back sleepers and those who prefer a plusher, cooler feel than memory foam.
Soft but not too thin, the Parachute Down-Alternative Pillow has the perfect loft for stomach sleepers who want just a bit of cushion, and it's now $16 off.
Shop at Parachute Shop at Nordstrom What we likeSoft and pillowy
Made from hypoallergenic down alternative
Folds easily for added support when lying on your side or back
Stays cool
60-day return window
Needs to be fluffed regularly to retain its shape
Poor support for sleepers who spend the majority of the night on their back or side
Not the best choice for guest bedrooms
Fill cannot be adjusted
Specifics
Fill:
Superfine microfiberFirmness:
Very softSizes:
Standard (20" x 26") and king (20" x 36")Best for:
Stomach sleepersStomach sleepers generally require the least amount of pillow support since your head and spine are already pretty close to alignment when lying on your stomach. Most stomach sleepers would benefit from a soft pillow with just a bit of loft, and for that, the Parachute Down-Alternative Pillow is our top choice.
This is the only pillow that received high marks for comfort from my husband, who is an avowed stomach sleeper and finds most pillows too lofty. The Parachute pillow elevates his head just enough to alleviate any neck strain, and the sateen cotton encasement keeps the pillow remarkably cool all night long, ideal for those, like him, who run hot.
Parachute's Down-Alternative Pillows are soft and stackable; perfect for stomach sleepers and combo sleepers that like to layer their pillows.
Lauren Savoie/Business Insider
We purchased four of these pillows a little over a year ago, and they were our mainstay before I started testing and evaluating pillows for this guide. In many ways, this pillow hits all the marks for me: it stays cool, is incredibly soft and comfortable, and is hypoallergenic. But while my husband happily drifts asleep with one of these pillows tucked under his head, I (a back sleeper) need to stack two or three to get the loft I need to fall asleep comfortably.
While the fill is thin enough that the pillow easily folds over for some support if you occasionally flip to your side or back during the night, it doesn't provide enough for those who spend most of the night in those positions. The pillow also won't offer much lift if you're looking to prop yourself up to read or watch TV while lounging in bed. Still, it's a great personal pillow for any stomach sleeper who has found other pillows too lofty.
With its customizable fill, the Layla Kapok Pillow offers neck pain sufferers both support and comfort.
Shop at Amazon Shop at Walmart Shop at Layla What we likeRemovable fill lets you customize the height
Comfortable
Molds to cradle your neck
Easy-to-clean cover
120-day trial
Removable fill can get messy
Specifics
Fill:
CertiPUR-US certified shredded memory foam and Kapok fibersFirmness:
Medium-firmSizes:
Queen (18" x 28") and king (18" x 34")Best for:
All sleeping styles, especially side sleepersThe Layla Kapok Pillow is the best pillow for those who suffer from neck pain that we tested. It's adjustable and forms to your head and neck for a very comfortable night's sleep.
This customization makes the Layla Kapok great for many types of sleepers. Reporter James Brains preferred to use the pillow with all the fill inside, while Sally Kaplan, executive editor for Insider Reviews, removed two-thirds of the material, which made it easy to mold the pillow to support her head and neck. Kaplan said it took a few nights to get the fill level right, but then she slept much better than with her old memory foam pillow.
The Layla Kapok Pillow's highly adjustable fill made it our top pick in our guide to the best pillows for neck pain.
James Brains/Business Insider
The pillow is made of CertiPUR-US-certified shredded memory foam and fibers from the Kapok tree. The fibers are light, buoyant, and commonly used as a down alternative. The foam is hypoallergenic and made without ozone depleters, certain heavy metals, and formaldehyde.
To adjust the pillow, unzip the cover and internal case. Remove the fill until you reach your preferred loft (or height). Have a sealable container or bag handy or so you contain the fill and save it in case you want to add it back in later.
If you find the pillow doesn't work for you, you can return it within 30 days.
Check out our guide to the best pillow for neck pain for more options.
The mid-plush Brooklinen Down Pillow conforms well to different sleeping positions, making it the ideal pillow for people who shift throughout the night. It feels as good as pillows double its price, and this is the best savings on Brooklinen we've seen this year.
Shop at Brooklinen What we likeComes in multiple support levels
Soft yet supportive
Good value
Down smell is a little strong
Specifics
Dimensions:
20 x 25 inches (standard) and 20 x 36 inches (king)Support levels available:
Plush, mid-plush, firmReturn policy:
1 yearWarranty:
1 yearCare instructions:
Leave outside on a dry day or air fluff in the dryer. Spot clean with a soft soap for small stains and dry clean for more significant stains. Note that dry cleaning will shorten the lifespan of the pillow.Certifications:
Downmark certifiedDown makes for a very soft and comfortable pillow, but the material isn't for everyone. While experts told us that down allergies are less common than we've been made to believe, people with dust mite allergies may sleep easier with a hypoallergenic pillow. That's why, for this guide, we focused mostly on memory foam and down-alternative pillows.
For those who strongly prefer the feel of a down pillow, check out our guide to the best down pillow. Our top pick was Brooklinen's Down Pillow, which was plush and comfy for various sleeping styles.
While we think down-alternative is the best option for most people, true feather down like the fill found in the Brooklinen Down Pillow offers a luxurious feel.
Connie Chen/Business Insider
It's offered in three firmness options. We tried the mid-plush and think it's a great middle-of-the-road option to try out if you're not quite sure what kind of pillow you like best. The mid has a dual chamber design with a feather core for support and is surrounded by fluffy down clusters at a ratio of 30% down to 70% feathers. Meanwhile, the firm also has a dual design but a ratio of 14% clusters and 86% feathers, ideal for side sleepers while the plush option is filled with 100% down clusters for the soft comfort stomach sleepers craved.
The down compressed easily but bounced back up quickly and was easy to fluff up. This pillow had the most noticeable down smell of all the down pillows, but it did dissipate. Otherwise, we were pleased with the construction and feel of the pillow.
The Pluto Pillow has a hybrid foam and polyfill design customized according to your needs, with an easy-to-use questionnaire used to develop your perfect pillow. Try it risk-free for 125 nights.
Shop at Pluto What we likeEasy, engaging quiz to customize your pillow
Comfortable
Retains shape
Cooling options
Long lead time for delivery
No latex or down options
Specifics
Fill:
CERTIPUR-US Certified foam and polyfillFirmness:
VariesSizes:
Standard (24" x 16") and king (34" x 16")Best for:
All sleep typesThe Pluto Pillow is built exactly for your needs, and there's no adjustable fill to trial and error with. The ordering process starts with a questionnaire that asks for demographics like age, height, and weight before asking about your current pillow type and satisfaction with it, your mattress's firmness, whether you sleep hot, sleeping position, and ideal pillow feel. While data and a special algorithm help build the pillow, there's space to detail any specific needs and preferences, which a human reads for requests or relevant information.
Each Pluto Pillow is a hybrid design with a CertiPUR-US-certified foam core and a plush polyfill. Pluto uses foams that vary in thickness, density, and firmness and customizes fill accordingly. You also choose an outer cover with a smooth temperature-regulating eucalyptus lyocell or a lightly quilted, cool-to-the-touch, plush fabric. The customization process offers 40 possible variations, with pillows ranging from 2 to 12 inches and soft to firm. Pluto does not use latex or down, but they will work to find something similar if you're after those feels.
The Pluto Pillow has a hybrid design with a foam core and a plush fill in cover. The final product is determined by a personalized sleep questionnaire.
Jaclyn Turner/Business Insider
I received my perfect pillow: a temperature-regulating cover with a pocket layer of fill for the plush factor I crave and a 2.5-inch high-performance inner foam core that's perfectly squeezable and supportive. I've had my Pluto Pillow for nearly two years, and I'm still frequently reaching for it. It beautifully holds its shape and cradles my head when I lay on my back while supporting my neck if I turn to my side.
The pillow is backed by a 125-night trial period and a one-year warranty. Though note, the lead time can be as long as four weeks to deliver your made-to-order pillow. Pluto also retains your results if you'd like to purchase additional in the future. Since each pillow is tailored to each individual, if you're purchasing for someone else, you can "gift" them a pillow to fill out their own pillow quiz. - Jaclyn Turner, senior home editor
Read our Pluto Personalized Pillow review.
If you're looking for a pillow that feels like you just sunk your head into a luxury hotel bed, this pillow is the exact model used by the Marriott family of hotels.
Shop at Amazon Shop at Marriott What we likeSoft and luxurious
Same pillow used in Marriott hotels
Comes in a variety of sizes
Sleeps very cool
Side and back sleepers may need to stack pillows for enough support
No real trial period
Requires fluffing
Specifics
Fill:
70% down/30% Lyocell fibers (outer chamber), duck feather (inner chamber)Firmness:
Very softSizes:
Standard, queen, kingBest for:
Stomach sleepers (or all sleep styles if doubled up)Hotels make a business out of comfortable sleep, so it's no surprise that "hotel-like" is a term often used to describe an ideal pillow texture. As someone who spends more than 100 nights away from home in an average year, I know the pleasure of sinking into a plush, perfectly squishy hotel pillow. Since I'm also a pillow reviewer, I make it a habit to investigate the tags on any hotel pillows I find particularly comfortable. More often than not, it turns out to be The Marriott Pillow.
Fortunately, Marriott allows you to buy the exact pillows it uses in its rooms for your home bedroom. To ensure the pillows live up to their hotel counterparts, I tested both a king-size and standard-size model at home. I'm happy to report that they're identical in feel and comfort to the ones I've experienced in Marriott's hotels.
Marriott's pillow is just as comfortable as what you'll experience in its hotels, though side and back sleepers may need to double up to get enough support.
Lauren Savoie/Business Insider
These pillows are incredibly plush and fluffy. The combination down and lyocell fill results in a squishy feel that is soft without bottoming out. As a back and sometimes side sleeper, I found I have to double up on these pillows to get the right amount of support. However, my stomach-sleeping husband has completely commandeered these pillows, replacing our Parachute pillows as his personal pillow choice. Keep in mind that you'll need to fluff these pillows daily for best results; they do compact a bit during the night. Marriott also only offers a 30-day return policy, which is less than many of our other picks.
While sleeping on buckwheat hulls can take some getting used to, the Turmerry Sobakawa Buckwheat Pillow offers an adjustable, hypoallergenic, and sustainable option that works for all sleeping styles. You can save 15% off using promo code BF at checkout.
Shop at Turmerry What we likeAdjustable
Supportive
Hypoallergenic
Sustainable
Refillable
30-day return policy
Firm
Sensation takes some getting used to
Specifics
Fill:
Buckwheat hullsFirmness:
Firm but malleableSizes:
Travel (12" x 16"), mini (15" x 20"), neckroll (13" x 6"), standard (20" x 26"), queen (20" x 30") and king (20" x 36")Best for:
All sleep stylesBuckwheat hulls are a traditional pillowfill used in Japan and many other Asian countries. Neither my husband nor I grew up with this type of pillow, so testing the Turmerry Sobakawa Buckwheat Pillow was a new experience for us.
And wow, we were both completely blown away by how comfortable this pillow was — so much so that I purchased an additional one because my husband and I would fight over who got to sleep on it each night.
The sensation of the hulls can take a little getting used to if this type of pillow is new to you. They rustle a bit and add some texture to the pillow. But I just love how malleable and yet supportive the pillow is.
If you've struggled to find a pillow that offers support, I highly recommend trying out a buckwheat pillow like this one from Turmerry.
Lauren Savoie/Business Insider
Most nights, I mold the pillow to the shape of my neck and feel totally supported the whole night. The hulls are heavier than a standard pillow fill, yet I can comfortably tuck my arm underneath it without creating too much pressure or overheating.
There's a reason why this type of pillow has been a popular choice for centuries worldwide. The pillow sleeps cool, is completely adjustable (just add or remove hulls to find your ideal loft), is sustainable and hypoallergenic, provides plenty of support, and works for all sleep styles.
The best pillows for you will depend highly on whether you sleep on your back, stomach, or side.
Lauren Savoie/Business Insider
The experts recommended prioritizing three main criteria when shopping for a new pillow: sleep position, material, and trial period. Below, find our recommendations for each consideration.
Robbins told us the most significant consideration when picking a pillow is your preferred sleep position: side, back, or stomach. The goal of your pillow is to support your neck in a neutral position aligned with the rest of your spine. That alignment shifts depending on the position you're sleeping in. While we all move around during sleep, most of us spend the majority of our sleeping time in one position.
Not sure what your sleep position is? Consider what position you typically fall asleep or wake up in. Robbins also has an exercise she performs with her clients: Imagine you've been up for 24 hours and are presented with a big, luxurious hotel bed; how would you lie down on it to go to sleep? The position you envision is likely your preferred sleep position and plays a significant role in what type of pillow will work best for you.
Ideal pillow by sleep position
Sleep positionSoftnessLoftMaterialSideSupportive but not too firmHigh (or with adjustable fill)Down, down alternative, shredded memory foam, gel, buckwheat, microfiberBackMedium-firmMediumAlmost anyStomachSoftLowDown, down alternative, shredded memory foam, buckwheat, microfiberSide sleepers: Around 65% of the US population are side sleepers, according to Robbins, and this position requires the most loft and support to bridge the wide gap between the side of your head and where your shoulder rests on the mattress. If you're a side sleeper, choose a lofty pillow — ideally with an adjustable fill since there can be a lot of variability in the size of that shoulder gap from person to person. Robbins said hotels and sleep clinics outfit rooms with side sleepers in mind, so if you're buying pillows for a guest bedroom, a side-sleeper-friendly pillow is usually a good bet.
Back sleepers: Back sleepers are the Goldilocks of pillow hunters — they need a pillow with just enough support to lift the back of the head to align with their shoulders. Back sleepers tend to benefit from a medium pillow made from a down or down alternative, though an adjustable pillow with at least one-third of the fill removed may work as well.
Stomach sleepers: In the minority are stomach sleepers, who need the least support from their pillow. Typically, a thin, very soft pillow works best for stomach sleepers — just enough fill to cushion their face from the flat surface of the mattress.
The material a pillow is filled with has a big impact on the feel of your pillow. Here's an overview of the major fill types:
Down: Down consists of feathers taken from the underbelly of a goose or duck. It's an incredibly soft and comfortable material for pillows. While most modern down is triple washed to remove dander, some allergy sufferers may want to avoid this material, as animal fibers are more prone to dust mites (which can exacerbate allergies) than synthetic fibers. You can read about our favorite down options in our best down pillows guide.
Down Alternative: Down alternative is typically any fiberous material that mimics the feel of true down. Microfiber is a popular and common down alternative, but bamboo or viscose fibers would also fall into the category, as well as polyfiber. The majority of the pillows in this guide are made from microfiber, which is generally hypoallergenic and breathable.
Memory foam: Another popular fill is memory foam. We prefer pillows with shredded memory foam, which offer a more traditional and malleable pillow feeling. A solid block of memory foam may be preferred if you suffer from back and neck pain and need to keep your head immobilized during sleep. Read more about the best pillows for neck pain.
The only way to know if a pillow is right for you is to sleep on it. We recommend looking for pillows that offer at least a 30-day trial with a money-back guarantee. This will allow you several weeks to decide if the pillow is right for you.
To learn more about what to look for in the best pillows, we spoke with Dr. Rebecca Robbins, sleep researcher, author, and instructor in medicine at Harvard Medical School and associate scientist at the Brigham and Women's Hospital. However, there is no one-size-fits-all, best pillow for everyone.
Individual anatomy, sleep habits, and preferences profoundly impact how comfortable a pillow will be from person to person. For that reason, our rating criteria for this guide relied heavily on the following considerations:
Return policy and trial period: It's impossible to know how comfortable a pillow is going to be for you until you sleep on it, despite how comprehensive our guide aims to be. "The most important thing is trying the pillows out to see what works for you," said Robbins, which includes being able to touch, lay on, and sleep with a pillow before deciding if it's right for you. For this guide, we only considered pillows that accept returns of used merchandise for a full refund with at least a 30-day trial window, which gives you ample time to decide if a pillow is right for you.
Adjustability: We prioritized adjustable pillows with removable inserts or shredded fill for dialing in your perfect loft. This creates a more custom pillow that would better suit your needs.
Ease of use: We looked at how well each pillow fit a standard pillowcase, whether the pillow came with a case or protector, and whether all or parts of the pillow were washable for better hygiene and pillow longevity.
Comfort: I slept on all of the pillows for at least three (sometimes agonizing) nights. I also enlisted a side sleeper and a stomach sleeper to try the pillows for a couple of weeks. We will develop a diverse sleep panel and have them test our top picks for additional feedback for future updates.
Below you'll find answers to common pillow questions based off our own testing and interviews with experts.
Lauren Savoie/Business Insider
The National Sleep Foundation recommends replacing a well-used pillow every couple of years. If you fold your pillow in half and it stays put, it's probably time for a new pillow. (This may not work with thin pillows.)
Robbins recommends looking for a hypoallergenic pillow with a synthetic filling if you're prone to allergies. Pillows with animal fillings (such as down) may trigger allergies since dust mites like fillings made from animal material.
Many are not. However, our top pick, the Coop Home Goods Original Pillow is entirely adjustable, so you can find the loft that's right for you. add or remove filling to reach your ideal comfort level.
Hot sleepers may find pillows with down or down alternative filling have better airflow than memory foam.
You can find pillows at a range of price points, anywhere from $10 to several hundred dollars. Because of how much time we spend sleeping, Robbins recommends thinking of a pillow as an investment that will pay you back in better sleep. "No matter your budget, I really encourage people to splurge and invest in these products because they will help," she said.
Sweat, oil, and skincare products can all turn your pillow yellow. Adding a pillow protector may help prevent the stains.
Typical recommendations range from every three to six months. Robbins recommends adding a pillow protector (an encasement that adds another level of protection from allergens, body oils, dust mites, and other pests), too.
Not every pillow can be washed. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for how to best care for and clean your pillow. You should also fluff your pillows daily to extend their life.
Loft refers to the height of your pillow, which determines how far off the mattress it lifts your head. experts recommend a pillow that keeps your head and neck aligned with the rest of your spine. side sleepers need more loft, while stomach sleepers need minimal loft.
Most pillows for sleeping come in two sizes: standard and king, while queen is another size option that you may see. Standard pillow sizes measure 20" x 26" inches, a queen measures 20" x 30" inches and a king measures 20" x 36" inches. We recommend a standard or queen size for twin, full, and queen mattresses and king pillows for king or California king mattresses.
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At SleepFoundation.org, we conduct extensive first-person experience tests on all but a select few products. This hands-on approach allows us to provide accurate, data-driven recommendations for mattresses, pillows, sheets, and other sleep essentials. Guidelines for our testing methodology are as follows:
Want to read more about all our experts in the field?
Danny is a Certified Sleep Science Coach with an in-depth knowledge of sleep health. He has tested hundreds of mattresses and sleep products.
Like mattresses, pillows play a major role in how well you sleep – and finding the right one can be challenging. Shoppers today have a lot to consider in terms of composition and fill, thickness, durability, temperature regulation, and pain relief. You should also take personal factors into account when searching for a new pillow. People with neck and shoulder pain may need a pillow with an orthopedic shape, while heavy snorers often require a high-loft pillow to keep their heads upright. Your sleeping position, weight, and body mechanics can all affect how your pillow feels.
Our testing team uses a comprehensive methodology when evaluating pillows. This process consists of multiple stages, during which our testers lie on and handle the pillow to gauge its shape retention, moldability, and conforming ability. Additional tests evaluate the pillow for temperature control and odor potential, and we also take weight, firmness options, and ease of cleaning into account. Our selections for the best pillows are chosen using our testers’ scores along with in-depth research and analysis.
We’ve named the Saatva Latex Pillow the best pillow of the year thanks to its strong balance of contouring and support, plus excellent cooling properties. Neither too firm nor too squishy, this pillow is just right for a wide array of sleepers.
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9.6
/10
Test Lab Score
We calculate our pillow test lab scores based on the following weighted performance categories, which are determined by in-house testing, field testing, and construction analysis.
Test Lab Score
“The Saatva Latex’s combination of down alternative and shredded Talalay latex fill results in an ideal combination of plushness and support. Our field tester has been using the pillow for over a month and loves how moldable it feels while still offering lots of support for the head and neck.” – Mark Horiuchi, Lead Product Tester
Pros
Shredded Talalay latex core offers a balance of contouring and responsiveness
Removable outer pillow for adjustable loft
Optional pillowcases made of silky-soft organic cotton
Cons
Minimal cushioning for those who prefer the “hug” of memory foam
Loft may be too thick for stomach sleepers
Price Range
$165 – $185
Fill
Shredded Talalay latex and down alternative
Firmness
Medium Soft
Saatva is best known for luxury sleep products made from premium materials. The Saatva Latex Pillow is a prime example of the brand’s commitment to quality and sustainable production. We found the pillow quite balanced, with plenty of cushioning for the head and neck without sacrificing support. At 8 inches thick, the Latex Pillow is among the loftiest we’ve tested firsthand.
How It Performed
Our side sleepers enjoyed the Latex Pillow’s high-loft profile. We’ve found people who primarily use the side position need thick pillows to fill the gap between their head and downward-facing shoulder, which in turn promotes even alignment. Some of our back sleepers also enjoyed the pillow, while the stomach sleepers on our team found it a bit too thick.
Shredded fill makes the pillow quite moldable and snuggly, but we also noticed decent shape retention due to the chambered design. Temperature control was another highlight during our tests. Air circulates nicely throughout the inner chamber to minimize heat retention, and the breathable cover also helps ensure consistent cooling.
What It’s Made of
The Saatva Latex Pillow features shredded Talalay latex in the core chamber, and down-like microdenier fibers in the outer chamber. Latex is highly responsive compared to foam, so the pillow shouldn’t sink too much beneath your head and neck, but the microdenier chamber keeps the surface invitingly plush. An organic cotton sateen cover encases the fill. After separating the three components, you can wash and dry the cover and microdenier in your household machines.
The Latex Pillow is competitively priced, and Saatva offers substantial discounts if you include two pillows with your purchase. Queen and king sizes are available. Shipping is free for customers in the contiguous U.S. and provincial Canada. Your order includes a 45-night sleep trial and a 1-year warranty against structural and material defects.
Read Our Full Saatva Latex Pillow Review
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9.1
/10
Test Lab Score
We calculate our pillow test lab scores based on the following weighted performance categories, which are determined by in-house testing, field testing, and construction analysis.
Test Lab Score
“I enjoyed Sleep Is the Foundation’s Shredded Memory Foam Pillow for its customizable design. You can add or remove as much fill as you need to sleep comfortably, and additional foam is available in bulk if you need a replenishment.” – Brad Nehring, Senior Product Manager
Pros
Shredded foam may be added or removed to change the loft
Quilted cover is soft and breathable
Bag of extra fill included with each purchase
Cons
Fill must be completely removed to launder the inner pouch
Sleep trial limited to 30 nights
Price
$90
Fill
Shredded memory foam (gel-infused)
Firmness
Adjustable
The Sleep Is the Foundation Loft Pillow is fully adjustable, allowing you to customize the design based on your ideal thickness and support levels. Shredded memory foam fill ensures the best of both worlds if you’re looking for a pillow that contours evenly and feels exceptionally plush without sacrificing support.
How It Performed
Most of our testers enjoyed the Loft Pillow, though their opinions varied on how much fill felt most comfortable. Side sleepers preferred the pillow at or close to full volume, as this provided ample cushioning for their head and promoted even spinal alignment. Our back sleepers received adequate support when the pillow was at medium loft, whereas stomach sleepers emptied most of the fill to create a low profile that didn’t elevate their necks too much.
The fill is moldable and ideal for our testers who enjoy snuggling with pillows while they sleep. Temperature control proved to be another strength during testing, as the cover — made from a breathable and moisture-wicking fabric blend — offset excessive heat retention and kept us cool. The pillow’s outer cover is fairly easy to keep clean, though you’ll need to remove all of the fill before laundering the inner pouch.
What It’s Made of
The Loft Pillow contains shredded memory foam infused with cooling gel to help you sleep cool. An inner pouch holds the foam, and the pouch is encased in a cover made of polyester and moisture-wicking viscose derived from bamboo. Both the cover and pouch are fully machine-washable.
When all fill is used, the pillow measures 8 inches thick and is considered very high-loft. Removing the fill gradually reduces the profile. Each Loft Pillow comes with a bag of supplemental fill whenever the original supply needs to be replenished. Queen and king sizes are available.
The Sleep Is the Foundation Loft Pillow is exclusively available through Amazon.com. All orders include 30-night trial periods, and Amazon Prime members qualify for free ground shipping.
Read Our Full Sleep Is the Foundation Shredded Memory Foam Pillow Review
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9.2
/10
Test Lab Score
We calculate our pillow test lab scores based on the following weighted performance categories, which are determined by in-house testing, field testing, and construction analysis.
Test Lab Score
“The thing I dig most about the Brooklinen Down Pillow line is how each of the firmness options is fine-tuned to different comfort needs. Our field tester has used the firm model for 2 years and loves how plush it feels, almost like a hotel pillow. It also does a great job of keeping him cool at night.” – Danny Noyed, Senior Product Editor
Pros
Three firmness options to suit different sleeper preferences
Down and feather clusters with a cotton sateen shell ensure a soft, cloud-like feel
Each order comes with a trial period spanning an entire year
Cons
Fill may trigger down allergies
Pillow should not be machine washed
Price Range
$109 – $149
Fill
Canadian white down clusters or down/feather blend
Firmness
Plush, Mid-Plush, Firm
Brooklinen delivers everything we love about down pillows — a plush, cloud-like feel with chambered construction to keep your head aloft and a breathable cover that reduces heat retention. The pillow is available in three density levels, each with a distinct firmness to accommodate different sleep positions.
How It Performed
Our testers evaluated all three of the Brooklinen Down Pillow’s density levels. The Plush pillow is the softest option, resulting in notable sinkage and minimal neck strain for our stomach sleepers. If you sleep on your side, we recommend the Firm pillow for its high loft. Our back sleepers awarded the highest ratings to the Mid-Plush feel, but this pillow is suitable for anyone who wants a compromise between soft cushioning and strong support.
Each density has a different construction, but we found all three pillows quite moldable and snuggly. The chambered design also helps maintain a full shape. That said, Brooklinen recommends daily fluffing to distribute the fill. While the down retains some heat, the breathable cover promotes cooling and none of our testers found the pillows overly warm.
What It’s Made of
Each of the three Brooklinen Down Pillows has a unique construction. The Plush design only contains down, creating an exceptionally soft surface for your head and neck. Mid-Plush pillows are structured with feather cores and down outer chambers. Since feathers provide better support, this design provides excellent cushioning without sinking too much. The Firm pillow also has a chambered design, but with a higher ratio of feathers to elevate your head even further.
Silky-smooth cotton covers encase the fill. To avoid damaging the down and feathers, you should only spot clean the pillow if stains occur. Dry cleaning is another option. Standard and king sizes are available.
The Brooklinen Down Pillow is reasonably priced and you’ll receive a discount when ordering two or four. Shipping is free for all customers in the contiguous U.S. Brooklinen’s 365-night sleep trial is one of the longest in the online bedding industry, and the pillow is backed by an additional year of warranty coverage against structural defects.
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7.5
/10
Test Lab Score
We calculate our pillow test lab scores based on the following weighted performance categories, which are determined by in-house testing, field testing, and construction analysis.
Test Lab Score
“I was pleasantly surprised at how luxurious the Quince Premium Down Alternative Pillow felt, given the affordable price-point. The pillow was plush, but it still managed to fill the space between my neck and the mattress surface.” – Jackson Lindeke, Executive Director
Pros
Available in two firmness options
Lofty microfiber fill conforms to the head to alleviate pressure buildup
365-night trial period
Cons
May require frequent fluffing
May feel too soft for people seeking a firmer, more supportive pillow
Price Range
$69 – $89
Fill
Down alternative microfibers
Firmness
Medium Soft, Medium Firm
The Quince Premium Down Alternative Pillow captures the luxurious feel of down at a fraction of the cost and without the animal sourcing. Available in two firmness levels, this model is reasonably priced compared to other down alternative pillows that we’ve tested.
How It Performed
Encased in a breathable cotton shell, the pillow has the plush, lofty feel that down alternative is known for, allowing it to gently cradle your head and neck. You can choose between two firmness options. The Soft/Medium model is well suited for back and stomach sleepers, since these sleep positions benefit from deep compression to help keep the head aligned with the neck and spine. The Medium/Firm pillow tends to feel more comfortable for side sleepers, since it fills the space between your neck and bed surface.
What It’s Made of
The pillow contains a microfiber fill, and the cover is 100% cotton with a 230 thread count and sateen weave. Piped edges add a subtle, stylish touch. You may opt for a standard or king size. This pillow is fully machine-washable as long as your machine is large enough to accommodate its size. Wash in cold water on a gentle cycle, and tumble dry on low heat. You can also dry clean the pillow.
Quince offers free shipping to customers in all 50 states. Purchases come with a generous 365-night sleep trial, during which customers can return pillows for a full refund.
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9.2
/10
Test Lab Score
We calculate our pillow test lab scores based on the following weighted performance categories, which are determined by in-house testing, field testing, and construction analysis.
Test Lab Score
“Boll & Branch’s Down Chamber Pillow delivers plenty of cushioning without the lumpiness or deep compression many have come to expect from down and feather fill. As a side sleeper, I prefer the firm design and appreciate how it fills the entire space between my head and shoulder without losing shape.” – Jackson Lindeke, Executive Director
Pros
Plush fill cradles the head and neck
Three firmness options to accommodate different sleeper types
IDS certification ensures ethical animal treatment
Cons
Not suitable for people with down allergies
Some owners report an unpleasant odor when the pillow is new
Price Range
$159 – $219
Fill
White down, down/feather blend
Firmness
Soft
Many people enjoy the luxurious plushness and cradling of down and feather pillows — but for others, this type of fill sinks too much and doesn’t feel comfortable. Boll & Branch remedies this problem with the Down Chamber Pillow, which consists of three internal compartments to distribute the fill and maintain a full shape. You can choose from three firmness levels, including two options with feathers in the core chamber to ensure even support for your head and neck.
How It Performed
The pillow’s soft, all-down design compresses very deeply. Our tests show stomach sleepers are the best candidates for this model — a flatter profile helps prevent neck strain for people who prefer the stomach position. Back sleepers on our team preferred the mid-range height and semi-plush feel of the medium pillow, while our side sleepers appreciated the full loft and sturdy support of the firm design.
Although you may need to fluff it from time to time, the chambered construction allows the pillow to retain shape better than many competing models. The fill also retains minimal heat and the shell is composed of breathable organic cotton, so the pillow should sleep nice and cool. We noticed a fair amount of initial odor, which is common for pillows with down and feather fill. These smells may persist for several nights, but washing the pillow can mitigate this issue.
What It’s Made of
The soft Down Chamber Pillow contains pure down in all three compartments, whereas the medium and firm models contain feathers in the core chamber and down in the outer chambers. A shell made of smooth organic cotton encases the fill. An International Down Standard certification indicates the fill meets strict animal welfare guidelines at each stage of its supply chain.
You may wash the pillow in cold water on a gentle cycle. Tumble drying on low heat helps extend its lifespan, but this may require multiple cycles to remove all moisture. Standard and king sizes are available.
The Down Chamber Pillow is reasonably priced given its luxurious design, and Boll & Branch offers free ground shipping for domestic U.S. orders. The company’s standard return and exchange window runs 30 nights from the delivery date. This trial period is extended to 100 nights during the winter holiday season.
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9.0
/10
Test Lab Score
We calculate our pillow test lab scores based on the following weighted performance categories, which are determined by in-house testing, field testing, and construction analysis.
Test Lab Score
“Brooklyn Bedding’s Talalay Latex Pillow feels really buoyant, and I didn’t notice any of the hugging or sinkage I’ve encountered with memory foam pillows. As a side sleeper, I preferred the higher-loft design, but a lot of the back sleepers on our team found the 4-inch pillow comfortable.” – Tom Ryan, Head of Product Testing
Pros
Responsive Talalay latex cushions the head and neck without hugging too deeply
Ventilated core and breathable cover help ensure excellent cooling
Two profile options to accommodate different sleep positions
Cons
Both lofts may be too thick for stomach sleeping
Limited contouring and moldability for those who prioritize these qualities
Price Range
$89 – $99
Fill
Talalay latex
Firmness
Medium Firm
Choosing the right pillow is crucial if you frequently experience neck pain — you’ll want to find the right balance between gentle cushioning and even support. Brooklyn Bedding’s Talalay Latex Pillow should check these boxes for most people. The latex is quite responsive, resulting in a light bounce when you lay down your head, but the material also feels soft and adaptive enough to reduce soreness and stiffness while you sleep.
How It Performed
Most of the side and back sleepers on our team awarded the pillow favorable ratings, though these testers were divided about which loft felt most comfortable. Side sleepers appreciated the extra cushioning of the 5-inch pillow, while back sleepers preferred the lower profile of the 4-inch model. Some of our stomach sleepers also liked the 4-inch design, though others experienced neck strain on both pillows.
Our tests show the pillow excels at temperature control. The ventilated core promotes plenty of air circulation, and the cover is made of breathable Tencel for added cooling. Shape retention was another testing highlight. The pillow never needs to be fluffed, and the latex bounces back quickly when not in use.
What It’s Made of
The pillow’s core consists of solid Talalay latex. This material is more resilient than Dunlop latex, making it bouncier and less dense. The latex is ventilated with small holes allowing air to circulate throughout the interior. A Tencel cover encases the core. You can remove and machine wash the cover whenever it needs to be cleaned. The pillow is available in queen and king sizes, as well as lofts of 4 or 5 inches.
The Talalay Latex Pillow is affordably priced compared to the average latex model, and Brooklyn Bedding offers free ground shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. Your order comes with a 30-night trial period. If you decide to keep the pillow, it’s further backed by a 3-year manufacturer’s warranty.
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8.9
/10
Test Lab Score
We calculate our pillow test lab scores based on the following weighted performance categories, which are determined by in-house testing, field testing, and construction analysis.
Test Lab Score
“Eli & Elm is a great option for folks who like a contoured pillow, especially side sleepers who experience neck and back pain. It’s on the firmer side, which helped fill the gap between my head and the mattress while I slept on my side.” – Logan Foley, Editorial Director
Pros
Ergonomic shape promotes even spinal alignment for left and right side sleepers
Latex and fiber fill blend can be added or removed to optimize the pillow's loft
Breathable components help the pillow resist overheating and sleep cool
Cons
Design may not be comfortable for stomach sleeping
All fill must be removed prior to machine washing
Price
$131
Fill
75% Latex and 25% Polyester Fiber
Firmness
Medium, Adjustable
If you sleep on your side, you’ll probably feel most comfortable on a high-loft pillow that fills the space between your head and downward-facing shoulder — but this isn’t always the case. Regardless of your personal preferences, the Eli & Elm Cotton Side-Sleeper Pillow features an adjustable design that lets you customize the profile to your liking. The pillow’s ergonomic shape also aligns the neck and shoulders with the rest of your spine, reducing pressure in these areas while you sleep.
How It Performed
Not surprisingly, the side sleepers on our team all felt comfortable on the pillow. We were particularly impressed with how the pillow’s ergonomic shape promoted even spinal alignment — a constant struggle for side sleepers who use traditional rectangular pillows. Our back sleepers also enjoyed the pillow, though they preferred less fill and lower loft than their side-sleeping counterparts.
The fill didn’t retain too much heat during our temperature control tests and the cotton-blend cover is highly breathable, so we recommend the pillow to hot sleepers and those who reside in warm or humid climates. We also found that the pillow provides above-average support compared to adjustable models with foam fill. The latex has some springiness to keep your head aloft and prevent uncomfortable sinkage.
What It’s Made of
The Cotton Side-Sleeper Pillow’s fill blend contains 75% shredded latex and 25% down alternative fibers. Although the higher ratio of latex makes the pillow feel responsive, the fibers add a touch of softness to cushion your head and neck. The oblong shape is designed to support your head and neck while bending around your shoulders to ensure even alignment for side sleepers.
You can unzip the cotton cover to add or remove fill as needed, and Eli & Elm sells extra fill if you want to replenish your supply. The cover is fully machine-washable. For added protection, you can purchase a matching pillowcase.
The Cotton Side-Sleeper Pillow is reasonably priced, and you’ll receive a substantial discount if you order two pillows. Standard ground delivery is free for most customers in the contiguous U.S., but California residents must pay shipping fees. Each purchase is backed by a 45-night trial period and a 5-year manufacturer’s warranty.
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8.4
/10
Test Lab Score
We calculate our pillow test lab scores based on the following weighted performance categories, which are determined by in-house testing, field testing, and construction analysis.
Test Lab Score
“The Cozy Earth Silk Pillow did not disappoint our testers. The pillow was luxuriously plush but was also great at retaining its shape. I would recommend this pillow to anyone who’s willing to spend some money on a high-end pillow, especially if you tend to overheat at night.” – Jeremy Klein, Senior Product Testing Manager
Pros
Mulberry silk fill is both plush and durable
Cover composed of breathable, moisture-wicking viscose derived from bamboo
Excellent shape retention and little to no flattening
Cons
Potentially too soft for people who prefer supportive pillows
Expensive pricing in all sizes
Price Range
$279 – $329
Fill
Long-Strand Mulberry Silk
Firmness
Medium Soft
Mulberry silk is one of the most luxurious bedding materials on the planet. As such, products made from this material tend to be fairly expensive. The Cozy Earth Silk Pillow delivers exceptional softness, cooling, and overall comfort, yet carries a price-point that’s accessible to many shoppers. Above-average durability also makes this pillow a solid long-term investment.
How It Performed
Our testers found the Cozy Earth Silk Pillow quite soft, yet the silk fibers didn’t sink too much and overall support was excellent. A mid-range loft made the pillow best suited to the back sleepers on our team, though it also earned favorable ratings from some of our side and stomach sleepers.
During our temperature control tests, we found the pillow very breathable. Our testers attribute this to silk’s natural cooling properties and the moisture-wicking cover. Shape retention is another strong point. The silk shouldn’t clump or flatten even after years of use — in fact, this is a defect covered under Cozy Earth’s warranty — but the fill still gives the pillow a plush, moldable feel.
What It’s Made of
Long strands of mulberry silk comprise the pillow’s fill. Silk is an ideal pillow material if you enjoy soft surfaces for your head and neck, but also want consistent shape retention and breathability. The cover is made of viscose derived from bamboo. A sateen weave gives the cover fabric a silky-smooth feel that’s ideal if you have sensitive skin. You can machine wash the pillow if needed, but Cozy Earth recommends spot cleaning or dry cleaning instead. Standard and king sizes are available.
Shipping is free for orders in the contiguous U.S. Your order comes with a sleep trial spanning 100 nights in length. If you decide to keep your Silk Pillow, Cozy Earth backs your purchase with a 10-year warranty against shifting fill, pilling, and other material defects.
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8.7
/10
Test Lab Score
We calculate our pillow test lab scores based on the following weighted performance categories, which are determined by in-house testing, field testing, and construction analysis.
Test Lab Score
“The Luxome LAYR’s unique layered design really lets you go to town with customization, so it’s a great option for sleepers who are particular about neck support — simply arrange the layers until you get a feel that works for you.” – Colin Simpson, Product Research Manager
Pros
Each purchase comes with soft, medium, and firm inserts to adjust the firmness and loft
Shell composed of breathable, moisture-wicking viscose derived from bamboo
Shoppers save 50% on second pillow when they purchase two
Cons
Sleepers may need several nights to determine best configuration
Pillow is fairly heavy when three or more inserts are used
Price Range
$100 – $115
Fill
Down alternative, shredded gel-infused memory foam, and solid gel-infused memory foam
Firmness
Adjustable
A pillow with good neck support can greatly reduce pain and pressure buildup that occurs while you sleep. The Luxome LAYR comes with four different inserts, allowing you to customize the feel and loft based on your personal preferences and sleep position. This level of adjustability makes the LAYR suitable for side, back, stomach, and combination sleepers.
How It Performed
Our team tested most of the LAYR’s insert combinations to get a sense of the pillow’s overall performance. Side sleepers on our team felt comfortable with most or all of the inserts in place, and preferred the shredded foam or down alternative inserts on top. Our back sleepers were a little more divided between using both solid foam inserts or the shredded foam and fiber inserts, but all agreed two was ideal. For our stomach sleepers, a single insert — down alternative, in most cases — felt most comfortable.
How well the pillow performs largely depends on which inserts you use. The down alternative insert retains less heat than the others, so this may be the best top layer if you’re a hot sleeper — though the vented, moisture-wicking cover kept most of our testers cool and comfortable no matter which inserts they used. Those who feel pain and pressure points in their neck and shoulders should get adequate relief from the solid foam or shredded foam inserts.
What It’s Made of
Each LAYR comes with inserts containing down alternative fibers, shredded memory foam, and solid memory foam. For the latter, you’ll receive inserts measuring 1 inch and 2 inches thick. You can add, remove, and rearrange the inserts to achieve the most comfortable configuration. Each insert is encased in a pouch to keep the materials hygienic and easy to separate.
A cover made of bamboo-derived viscose encases the inserts. This fabric is highly breathable and has moisture-wicking properties. Ventilated side panels provide additional cooling. The cover and insert pouches are fully machine-washable, but you should avoid laundering the inserts themselves. Standard and king sizes are available.
The LAYR is very reasonably priced compared to other customizable pillows we’ve tested, and you’ll receive a significant discount if you order two pillows. Standard shipping is free for customers in the contiguous U.S. Luxome allows you to return undamaged pillows within 30 days of delivery.
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9.0
/10
Test Lab Score
We calculate our pillow test lab scores based on the following weighted performance categories, which are determined by in-house testing, field testing, and construction analysis.
Test Lab Score
“The Company Store Legends Hotel Best Down Pillow has a luxurious, cloud-like feel that epitomizes five-star bedding. It’s the kind of pillow you’ll want to snuggle into at the end of a long day.” – Jeremy Klein, Senior Product Testing Manager
Pros
Available in three firmness and density levels to accommodate different sleep positions
Plush down and feather blend cradles the head and neck
Cotton sateen shell is smooth and breathable
Cons
May trigger allergies for some sleepers
Pillow requires daily fluffing for a full shape
Price Range
$119 – $149
Fill
600 fill power down
Firmness
Soft, Medium, Firm, Extra Firm
The Legends Hotel Best Down Pillow from The Company Store has a tailored design and plush down feel that you’d expect from a pillow in a quality hotel. It’s also available in multiple firmness options and sizes to benefit a wide variety of sleepers.
How It Performed
With its strong cushioning and four firmness levels, the Best Down Pillow is suitable for all sleep positions. The soft model is best suited for stomach sleepers, who typically need pillow lofts that are on the thinner side. The medium and firm options should feel comfortable for side and back sleepers, and the extra firm model is a good fit for side sleepers who need extra support to prevent awkward angling of the neck.
What It’s Made of
The pillow is filled with 600 fill power down and comes encased in a breathable cotton cover with 245 thread count. You can choose between three sizes — standard, queen, and king. Whichever firmness option you choose, the down cushions your head and neck to prevent painful pressure buildup or uncomfortable neck and spinal alignment. The Company Store recommends dry cleaning the pillow to promote longevity.
The pillow qualifies for free shipping in the contiguous U.S., and you’ll receive a 30-day trial to test the pillow at home.
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8.1
/10
Test Lab Score
We calculate our pillow test lab scores based on the following weighted performance categories, which are determined by in-house testing, field testing, and construction analysis.
Test Lab Score
“A mid-level loft and soft, squishy feel make this Helix pillow a solid pick for back sleepers, stomach sleepers, and combination sleepers who switch between these two positions. We were also impressed with the pillow’s cooling abilities — the GlacioTex cover effectively removes heat on contact to help maintain a comfortable sleep temperature.” – Lauren Fountain, Senior Product Editor
Pros
Solid memory foam cushions the head and neck for a cradling, cloud-like surface
Available in two lofts, including a mid-range option for back and stomach sleepers
Phase change cover dissipates heat and feels cool at all times
Cons
May not be moldable enough for people who enjoy snuggling with a pillow
High potential for strong initial off-gassing
Price Range
$123 – $136
Fill
Solid memory foam
Firmness
Medium
If you’re a back or stomach sleeper, you’ll probably feel most comfortable on a pillow with a low to medium loft and a relatively soft core that compresses beneath the weight of your head and neck. The aptly named Helix GlacioTex Cooling Memory Foam Pillow – Back & Stomach Sleeper should check all of these boxes. A solid foam core provides deep cushioning to alleviate your sore spots, while the mid-range profile shouldn’t provide too much elevation or neck strain.
How It Performed
Our team tested both of the GlacioTex Cooling Memory Foam Pillow’s profiles. Back and stomach sleepers largely preferred the lower 4.75-inch design, which offered just enough support to prevent uncomfortable sinkage without lifting the neck to an excessive degree. Combination back and stomach sleepers also felt most comfortable on this design. If you’re a side sleeper or a combination sleeper who sometimes uses the side position, we recommend the 5.25-inch profile instead.
During our tests, thermal mapping technology revealed little to no heat buildup on the pillow’s surface — a rare quality for a solid foam model. The GlacioTex cover gets most of the credit for this pillow’s above-average temperature control. Shape retention is another major strength. Since the core contains a single piece of foam, you should never need to fluff the pillow for shape recovery.
What It’s Made of
The pillow’s memory foam core is soft, squishy, and adaptive. This material responds slowly to movement, creating a cloud-like effect as your head and neck sink into the pillow. Copper fibers infused into the foam are intended to offset heat retention, but the GlacioTex phase change cover is the star of the show when it comes to regulating temperature. This proprietary fabric is engineered to capture and release body heat on contact. The cover is removable and fully machine-washable for easy care.
Standard and king sizes are available. Price-points are below-average compared to other memory foam pillows on the market, and Helix offers free ground shipping to shoppers in all 50 states. The company’s sleep trial runs for 100 nights, and those who keep their pillow receive an additional year of warranty coverage.
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8.4
/10
Test Lab Score
We calculate our pillow test lab scores based on the following weighted performance categories, which are determined by in-house testing, field testing, and construction analysis.
Test Lab Score
“The Sweet Zzz is a really solid pick in the down alternative department. I experienced down-like softness as my head sank gently into the fluffy outer chamber of fill, but the denser inner core kept my head well-supported. The plant-based fibers are a bonus for eco-conscious shoppers.” – Danny Noyed, Senior Product Editor
Pros
Breathable cotton cover helps regulate temperature
Plant-based down alternative fibers cushion the head and neck to relieve pressure
50-night sleep trial for all customers
Cons
Stomach sleepers may find the fill too lofty and lacking in support
Frequent fluffing needed to evenly distribute the fill
Price Range
$135 – $150
Fill
Plant-based down alternative fibers
Firmness
Medium
The hotel-style Sweet Zzz Plant-Based Pillow uses a plant-based down alternative derived from soybeans to create a well-cushioned sleep surface. Animal-conscious shoppers and people with down allergies should appreciate this pick.
How It Performed
A medium feel and 5- to 6-inch loft made the Plant-Based Pillow a hit with our side and back sleepers. Our side sleepers found the profile thick enough to maintain proper alignment, while the plush down alternative fill cushioned the head and neck to relieve pressure. Our back sleepers also felt comfortable. If you sleep on your stomach, you may find the pillow cranes your neck too high and causes discomfort.
We also recommend the pillow for hot sleepers, thanks to the naturally breathable materials. Our heat guns detected very little heat buildup on the pillow’s surface. The fiberfill also made the pillow quite moldable during our tests, which is great if you prefer to snuggle your pillow at night.
What It’s Made of
The outer chamber is filled with plush fibers to give extra cushioning for the head and neck. Meanwhile, denser fibers in the inner chamber prevent the pillow from sinking too deeply. A breathable shell made from natural cotton keeps your head cool throughout the night. You can machine-wash the pillow for easy care. Simply wash on a gentle cycle and tumble dry on low heat.
Standard and king sizes are available. Sweet Zzz ships free to customers living in the contiguous U.S. The pillow comes with a 50-night sleep trial and a 1-year warranty against structural defects.
Use this link for the most current Silk & Snow discounts
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9.0
/10
Test Lab Score
We calculate our pillow test lab scores based on the following weighted performance categories, which are determined by in-house testing, field testing, and construction analysis.
Test Lab Score
“I enjoyed the customizability of the Silk & Snow Pillow, since it allowed me to select the exact amount of fill to properly support my head without straining my neck. The crisp percale cover and shredded foam core kept the pillow from retaining heat, which I appreciated as someone who tends to overheat easily.” – Lauren Fountain, Senior Product Editor
Pros
Shredded memory foam and down alternative chambers offer great contouring for the neck
Breathable cotton percale cover helps regulate temperature
Adjustable design lets you customize the loft
Cons
Too plush for some sleepers
Supplemental fill not available for purchase
Price Range
$75 – $85
Fill
Shredded memory foam core with down alternative microfiber outer chamber
Firmness
Medium
If you’re shopping with a limited budget, you may find that low-cost pillows sacrifice quality to carry an affordable cost. The Silk & Snow is a notable exception. With an adjustable core and chambered design to cushion your head and neck, the pillow is thoughtfully constructed and practical if you frequently change your pillow’s thickness and firmness.
How It Performed
To accurately evaluate the Silk & Snow Pillow, our tests involved multiple loft adjustments. The side sleepers on our team preferred the pillow’s fill at maximum volume, whereas our back sleepers needed to remove some of the foam to avoid neck strain. For our stomach sleepers, the pillow felt most comfortable when the core chamber was half full.
For the remainder of our tests, we evaluated the pillow at about 90% volume. The shredded foam and synthetic down outer chamber gave the pillow an exceptionally moldable feel, and the chambered design helped to distribute the fill evenly and maintain a full shape. Thanks to the cotton cover, none of our testers felt excessively hot.
What It’s Made of
The core contains shredded memory foam that provides deep cushioning and close contouring for your head and neck. In the outer chamber, microfiber fill creates a down-like softness. The cover is composed of crisp cotton percale. You may machine wash the cover, but should avoid exposing the other components to water.
To adjust the loft, simply unzip the cover and inner pouch containing the foam. We recommend using a receptacle if you are removing foam, as the strands can create a mess. Silk & Snow does not sell additional foam fill in bulk.
Not only does the Silk & Snow Pillow carry an affordable price-point, but shipping is free of charge to all customers in the contiguous U.S. and provincial Canada. The company’s sleep trial runs for 100 nights, and you may return the pillow for a full refund after testing it for 30 nights. Those who keep their pillow also receive a 3-year warranty.
Use this SleepFoundation.org link for the most current discount on Noble pillows
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9.1
/10
Test Lab Score
We calculate our pillow test lab scores based on the following weighted performance categories, which are determined by in-house testing, field testing, and construction analysis.
Test Lab Score
“The Noble Head Pillow is one of the most customizable pillows our team has ever come across. You can adjust the loft and firmness, and you can pick the type of fill. It’s ideal for people who are trying to alleviate neck or shoulder pain, especially when conventional pillows fall short.” – Jeremy Klein, Senior Product Testing Manager
Pros
Adjustable loft with nine customizable compartments
Available with three types of fill
GOTS and GOLS certifications ensure sustainable material sourcing
Cons
Price-point may be high for shoppers on a budget
Foam fill might emit off-gassing odor at first
Price Range
$349 – $399
Fill
Wool, shredded latex, or memory foam
Firmness
Medium Soft, Medium Firm, Firm
Persistent shoulder pain can occur if your pillow’s loft is too high or too low for your preferred sleep position, or if your pillow is too firm. The Noble Head Pillow is designed for advanced customization with nine individual chambers, each of which can be adjusted for loft and firmness at any given time.
How It Performed
Depending on the size you choose, you can change the loft anywhere from 1 to 10 inches and sleep comfortably in the side, back, or stomach positions. The Head Pillow is also available with three types of fill. We recommend the shredded memory foam for those who prefer a plush, adaptive feel. If you want some light cushioning without a close hug, the shredded latex fill may be more comfortable. The shredded wool fill is fairly firm, and also has natural moisture-wicking properties to help prevent night sweats. Your Head Pillow is fully adjustable regardless of which fill you choose.
What It’s Made of
A machine-washable organic cotton cover is included with your order. The fabric has Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certification, as does the wool fill, while the latex has earned certification from the Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS). These credentials ensure the materials have been sustainably sourced. Noble also allows customers to opt for plastic-free shipping containers during checkout.
Standard ground delivery is free of charge for customers in the contiguous U.S. You may test out the pillow for up to 30 nights. Exchanges for size and fill type are also available during the trial period. A manufacturer’s warranty covers structural and material defects in the Head Pillow for up to five years.
Use this link for the most current Luxe Pillow discounts
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8.4
/10
Test Lab Score
We calculate our pillow test lab scores based on the following weighted performance categories, which are determined by in-house testing, field testing, and construction analysis.
Test Lab Score
“I’ve always loved the cloud-like feel of down pillows, but I’ve often found them lacking in support since I sleep on my side. The Luxe Pillow is a welcome exception. It has that classic fluffy down feel but it’s also lofty and dense enough to keep my head and shoulders supported.” – Jeremy Klein, Senior Product Testing Manager
Pros
Firmer waterfowl-feather core provides structured support
Softer white goose down exterior layers offer a plush feel and soft contouring
300 thread count pillow protector included
Cons
Pillow may feel overly thick for stomach sleepers
Washing and drying the pillow can be time-consuming
Price Range
$129 – $149
Fill
RDS-certified down and feather fill
Firmness
Soft
If you prefer pillows that feel exceptionally soft and sink deeply beneath your head, you’re a prime candidate for a model containing down and feathers. The Luxe Pillow is affordably priced compared to its competitors, and a chambered design ensures a plush feel without sacrificing support. You can also rest easy knowing the pillow holds a Responsible Down Standard certification, meaning all birds providing the fill are humanely treated, housed, and fed.
How It Performed
During our tests, the Luxe Pillow earned its most favorable ratings from side and back sleepers. A mid-range profile and lofty feel helped ensure adequate elevation without straining the neck, and the chambered design provided enough support to reduce sinkage. Stomach sleepers may need a thinner pillow, but those who prefer extra cushioning may also find the Luxe comfortable.
The down and feather fill makes this pillow highly moldable, though you may need to fluff it often to maintain a full shape. Our tests also showed the pillow provides above-average temperature control. This is largely due to a breathable cotton cover that promotes airflow and helps offset the down’s heat-retaining properties.
What It’s Made of
The Luxe Pillow’s interior consists of three chambers. The core contains waterfowl feathers, which provide decent support, and plush down fills the two surrounding chambers to create an exceptionally soft feel. A cotton shell encases the fill, and your purchase includes a cotton pillow protector. You can machine wash the pillow and protector, but should separate these items before doing so. Standard and king sizes are available.
In addition to its below-average pricing, the Luxe Pillow qualifies for free ground delivery throughout the contiguous U.S. and low flat-rate shipping to Alaska, Hawaii, and Canada. The pillow’s trial period spans 100 nights, but you must test it out for at least 3 weeks before initiating a return.
Watch the video below to learn more about our lab’s top pillows of 2024.
Below our top picks you’ll find a buyer’s guide that can help you learn tips for finding your perfect pillow. This guide includes a complete rundown on pillow types and important criteria for shoppers. We’ll take an extensive look at pillow materials, loft, firmness, and shape so that you can choose the best one for your personal preferences. You can also find helpful information on what to expect when it comes to average costs, cover materials, and sizing.
Every sleeper has unique needs and preferences when it comes to choosing the best pillow. Our team tests each pillow using an objective rating system that examines each pillow’s pros and cons. This holistic approach is intended to help each reader find the best pillow for them.
Our team of experts personally evaluates each pillow in our Seattle-based Test Lab. Each pillow undergoes the same hands-on process, which involves testing across different performance categories. Guidelines for our pillow testing system are listed below.
Construction analysis: Our team carefully reviews the loft, firmness, and material composition of each pillow. This helps us determine overall quality, expected lifespan, and ease of care.
Product testing: We take turns lying on each pillow in different sleep positions — this helps us determine whether it is best suited to side, back, stomach, or combination sleeping. We also hold and handle the pillow to measure qualities like temperature control, shape retention, and moldability.
Field testing: In addition to evaluations in our Seattle Test Lab, we assign performance ratings to pillows based on experiences of our field testers who use the pillows in their own homes. Field test data is collected over the course of several weeks to ensure accurate results.
User testing: We use feedback from real pillow owners collected from surveys and product reviews. This real-world data gives us insights into how each pillow performs over time, and whether our initial ratings reflect owner experiences.
Our team at Sleep Foundation has tested hundreds of pillows in order to determine the best models for every type of sleeper. Each pillow undergoes the same extensive testing process, during which we examine and handle the pillow to assess performance areas such as shape retention, moldability, and overall support. We also consider weight, firmness, ease of care, and pricing when assigning pillow ratings. Our test team is comprised of sleepers with various sleep preferences and body types. This helps ensure that our testing represents a wide array of sleepers.
How We Evaluated These Pillows
To evaluate pillows, our testers lay their head on each model and change sleep positions to assess qualities such as firmness, feel, contouring, and support. We physically handle the pillows to see if they are moldable, or if they maintain a full shape and spring back after being compressed. Based on our hands-on testing, we’ve determined that the above list of picks represents the best of the pillows on the market today.
Below are more details about our product testing methodology for pillows:
Conforming: A pillow with strong conforming will closely hug your head and neck, reducing pressure buildup that can sometimes cause pain or discomfort. We evaluate conforming by lying on the pillow and observing how deeply our head sinks. We also compress the pillow and measure the indentation’s depth.
Support: Pillows offer varying levels of support depending on factors such as fill material, firmness, and loft. We evaluate support by laying our head on a pillow for several minutes and assessing how well it supports our head and neck for proper spinal alignment. We’ve tested more than 100 pillows to compare against each other.
Temperature Control: Depending on the materials they’re made of, some pillows retain more heat than others. Our testers use thermal sensors to measure heat buildup while lying on the pillow. We also collect subjective feedback from testers who lie on the pillow.
Off-Gassing: Certain pillows made with synthetic materials may initially off-gas volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions. VOCs are relatively harmless and the odors eventually dissipate, but some people may find them unpleasant at first. Our testers use a VOC meter to detect off-gassing odors in pillows.
For more personalized pillow guides, check out the following pages:
Best Pillows by Price
The best pillow for sleeping varies from person to person, and there is no single perfect pillow for everyone. To find your ideal pillow, you must consider your sleep position preferences, as well as many aspects of pillows you’re considering.
This section guides you through the various pillow qualities to evaluate while pillow shopping. Once you know what to look for, you can feel confident that you’re truly buying the pillow that best fits your needs.
Marketing hype shouldn’t drive your decision-making as you shop for the perfect pillow. Companies may claim that their pillow feels like sleeping on a cloud, works well for all sleepers, and stays cool all night. Instead of being swayed by advertising, it’s best to evaluate the facts.
You should consider many factors when pillow shopping. First, your personal sleep position preference heavily influences which pillows best fit your body. Of course, many shoppers are limited by a budget. Keep these factors at the forefront of your mind while examining your pillow options.
“Your personal sleep position preference heavily influences which pillows best fit your body.”
Learn each pillow’s loft and firmness level to determine if it’s a good option for you. Identify the materials each pillow is made of, if it has cooling properties, and if it will relieve pressure in your neck and shoulders.
In this section, we provide more information about the factors to consider when pillow shopping.
Pillows are constructed with a variety of materials. Understanding what these materials are and how they generally perform will help you determine which pillows best fit your needs.
Pillow covers also come in a variety of materials. Most pillow covers are made of cotton, polyester, or a cotton-poly blend. Some are made of other materials, such as bamboo-derived fabric or satin.
Cotton covers tend to be more breathable than polyester. Different cover materials feel different to the touch, but the feel is less important since most customers use pillow cases over their pillows.
A pillow’s “loft” refers to its height when it is lying flat with nothing sitting on top of it.
Pillows are generally divided into low, medium, and high lofts. A low loft pillow measures 3 inches or less in height. A medium loft pillow measures between 3 and 5 inches thick. A high loft pillow measures over 5 inches in height.
Unfortunately, these measurements haven’t been universally adopted across pillow companies. Some companies might call their pillow “low loft” or “high loft” when it is in fact medium or average in height.
Your ideal loft will depend on factors such as preferred sleep position and head size.Check actual pillow measurements rather than descriptions whenever possible. Though some companies provide an exact measurement of their pillow’s loft, many do not.
The ideal pillow loft varies from sleeper to sleeper. Your sleep position preference, head size, body weight, and mattress firmness are all factors that influence which pillow loft is ideal for you.
“Side sleepers tend to need a high-loft pillow for support and to fill the space beneath the head and neck to promote proper spinal alignment. Keep your head and neck in alignment at around 30 degrees with the help of a good pillow so your airway stays open during the night, allowing air to flow from your nose to your lungs without obstruction.”
– Sarah Silverman, Psy.D., a licensed psychologist and holistic sleep wellness consultant who treats patients in New York and Florida.
Pillows come in a variety of sizes to fit beds of different sizes and people of different body weights and sleeping habits. Pillow size can be as important as firmness and loft when it comes to finding the pillow that best fits you.
While pillow prices can range as high as several hundred dollars or more, most will cost you less than $200 — even luxury models. A major factor in pillow pricing is the type and quality of the fill material. We’ve found that pillows containing polyfoam and down alternative tend to cost less than pillows filled with latex, down, memory foam, or buckwheat.
Below are some other factors that may play a role in a pillow’s price:
Side sleepers generally prefer pillows with medium to high loft, or about 4 to 6 inches thick (if not thicker). Due to the nature of this sleep position, extra padding is needed to cushion the head, neck, and shoulders and ensure even alignment.
Side sleepers who weigh more than 230 pounds may prefer mid-loft pillows because they will sink more deeply into their mattress than lighter individuals, and thus not need as much padding. Specialty pillows for side sleepers often have contoured shapes or cutouts that mold around the shoulders and cushion the head without sacrificing loft elsewhere.
The best pillow for any given sleeper should promote even spinal alignment by providing optimal cushioning for the head, neck, and shoulders. This factor is especially crucial for people with back pain, many of whom experience discomfort due to alignment issues in the first place.
Stomach sleepers with back pain should choose a low-loft pillow that won’t elevate their head to a significant extent. The same is somewhat true for back sleepers, though they may need a bit more loft to prevent their heads from falling back too much. Side sleepers with back pain may want to consider a medium- to high-loft pillow to ensure adequate cushioning for the head, neck, and shoulders.
The best pillows for people with neck pain will provide sufficient support without feeling too stiff or sinking excessively. In terms of composition, materials like solid memory foam, latex, and buckwheat hulls reinforce the head and neck quite well.
The pillow should also be firm and thick enough to maintain a full shape throughout the night. Pillows that contain down, feather, or down alternative fiber fill tend to be quite soft and overall support is fair at best, so sleepers with neck pain may want to bypass these products.
Since comfort is a subjective quality, the best pillow filling depends entirely on your personal needs and preferences. Down, down alternative, and shredded foam pillows tend to feel softer, while solid foam, latex, and buckwheat pillows are usually firmer. If you desire close contouring, foam or latex are more adaptive than other fill materials. Those who want a pillow with adjustable fill should opt for a shredded foam, shredded latex, or buckwheat pillow.
Our product experts have extensive experience testing just about every sleep product on the market.
Send an email to [email protected] with your questions and we’ll help you find exactly what you’re looking for.