The Best Editor-Tested Pillows That You Can Buy Now
Table of Contents
Selecting the perfect pillow is a lot like the process of finding the right partner — you may have to give a few prospectives a go before you settle on your ideal match. You can’t just select one at random. In that case, you run the risk of seriously regretting it later. After all, we spend a significant amount of time snuggling up in our beds — ideally eight hours every night — and a pillow can either make or break our rest. Not to mention, it has an impact on our necks and backs and how much pain we have to endure during the day.
Not all pillows are created equal, so selecting the right one can be a lengthy process. Different pillows are designed to meet the unique needs of sleepers, so the challenge begins with a self-audit of your own sleep style, movement, and preferences. To give you a helping hand, we’ve done the heavy lifting when it comes to product research and testing and have uncovered the very best pillows for every type of sleeper. Read on to find yours and discover just how much better your sleep can really be.
Our Best Overall Pick: Cushion Lab CloudLoft Pillow
Cushion Lab CloudLoft Pillow
Cushion Lab
$78 (was $109)
Buy Now
The Best Pillows
Best Overall: Cushion Lab CloudLoft Pillow
Best Value: Sijo Fluffbase Eucalyptus Pillow
Best Luxury: Saatva Down Alternative Pillow
Best Cooling: Bedsure Breescape Arctic Cooling Pillow
Best for Neck Pain: Cushion Lab Neck Relief Ergonomic Cervical Pillow
Best for Back Sleepers: Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Symphony Pillow
Best for Stomach Sleepers: Sobel Westex Sahara Nights Pillow
Best for Side Sleepers: Honeydew Side Sleeper Pillow
Best for Combination Sleepers: Purple Harmony Pillow
Best Unique: Pluto Pillow
What to Consider Before Buying a Pillow
Finding the best pillow match depends on several different factors, and the truth is there isn’t a one-size-fits-all formula. Some people with neck pain may insist on a firm feel, while others find a plush pillow more beneficial. It all depends on your sleeping positions and where your pain is localized. Alternatively, cloud-like plushness isn’t a universal desire when it comes to pillows, and many of us could actually need something firmer and not yet realize it. In short, there are a whole lot of factors, which made compiling this list fairly difficult. As always, we did our best to be unbiased, and what worked for us might be a little different for you. (That’s also why we included many categories and a whole lot of editor opinions.)
With that said, the two main things you should keep in mind while pillow shopping are fill and firmness. Fill refers to the material that makes up the inside of the pillow, such as foam, gel, and down. As for firmness, most pillows are considered either firm, plush, or somewhere in the middle.
Type of Fill
Memory foam: This is a super popular material in both mattresses and pillows. Known for being plush and soft, memory foam is great if you want to really sink into your pillow — although there are definitely thicker foam options that feel much firmer. Foam pillows can also hold in heat (depending on what else the fill is composed of), making them less ideal for people who sleep hot.
Gel: Gel is actually a form of memory foam — its longer name is “gel-infused memory foam.” The main benefit of gel is that it makes the foam much more breathable, which is ideal for sweaty sleepers who need a cooling material. It’s also a bit denser than memory foam, so it offers greater support.
Down and down alternative: If you prefer a more traditional feel, try a down or down alternative pillow. Down pillows are filled with the material found under the feathers of birds (usually geese and ducks) and are typically much more expensive than other pillows. They have a luxe feel but could trigger allergies — not to mention, you may have ethical concerns about using animal products. If you want the same feel, there are plenty of down alternative options that feel nearly identical to the real thing.
Latex: For something more natural, consider a latex pillow. Latex comes from the rubber tree and is a chemical-free alternative to foam. Soft, bouncy, and durable, it’s a high-quality material that typically has a higher price tag. It’s also hypoallergenic, antifungal, and doesn’t absorb heat like foam does. Most organic pillows are made from latex.
Firmness Levels
This is where things get tricky. We’d always thought of “firm” pillows as being hard and uncomfortable, but it turns out that’s not always the case. For example, a firm down pillow feels very different from a firm foam pillow. On the other hand, we thought “soft” translated to “thick, plush, and oh so comfy,” but again, that’s not always the case. In fact, soft pillows tend to be pretty flat or flatten over time, especially those filled with down.
Firm: If you suffer from neck or head pain, consider a firm (or firmer) pillow. These have less give than soft options, which doesn’t mean less comfort, but rather that your head won’t sink into it unsupported. Stomach sleepers are advised to avoid firmer pillows, as they’ll keep your head elevated, slightly bending your neck backward and putting you in an uncomfortable position.
Soft: Maybe you don’t experience neck pain or love sinking into a fluffy pillow. With a barely there feel and the ability to easily conform to your head and neck, soft pillows are best for stomach and back sleepers. That said, side sleepers most likely won’t get the proper support they need from a soft pillow.
Tip: If you sleep in multiple positions, consider two pillows of different firmness levels: one suited for the position you fall asleep in and another nearby in case you toss and turn and need more or less support in the position you wake up in.
Sleeping Style
Side sleeper: If you sleep on your side, you have a lot of freedom when choosing a pillow — but that also means you have an overwhelming number of options. The only thing you really need to look out for is pillow height. Softer, plush pillows tend to be less supportive, even if they appear tall. So, if you’re a side sleeper, soft pillows likely won’t keep your head and neck aligned. Go for something medium-firm for slight give but ample support, and be sure the pillow’s thickness works for you to keep your alignment in check.
Back sleeper: If you sleep on your back, look for a pillow that’s flatter with less fill. Firmness depends on your preference — those with pain might opt for something firm to keep the head in the same place throughout the night and relieve the neck. Otherwise, something soft and flat that’ll mold to your head is best.
Stomach sleeper: You’ll want something super soft if you sleep on your stomach — if you use a pillow at all. Picking a pillow that’s flat is best so you don’t mess up your spine and neck alignment, and you definitely don’t want one that’s firm.
Certifications
CertiPUR-US: Ensures the foam is free from harmful chemicals, flame retardants, heavy metals, and more.
GREENGUARD: Ensures the foam has low chemical emissions.
Responsible Down Standard (RDS): Confirms that the down used comes from animals not subjected to any harm.
eco-INSTITUT: Ensures the brand goes beyond usual standards and mandatory legal, national, and international requirements on health-agreeable home products.
Intertek’s Clean Air: Ensures products comply with low VOC emission requirements and certifies on behalf of BIFMA e3, California CDPH, LEED, and WELL.
Downmark: Ensures the authenticity and high quality of down-labeled products.
GOTS: Confirms the ecological and social responsibility with which textile products are made.
MADE SAFE: Ensures everyday products are non-toxic, made with safe ingredients and materials, and are family-safe.
OEKO-TEX Standard 100: Ensures every component of a product has been tested and is free of harmful chemicals.
CPSIA: Ensures a product is safe for children and meets general consumer product safety rules.
What We Look for in a Pillow
We tested a wide range of pillows for our list, judging them on the following criteria:
Feel: How comfortable is the pillow? Do we remain comfortable all night, or do we wake up with neck pain? Does it feel cool, or do we feel warm?
Support: How supportive is the pillow? Do we wake up feeling sore? Do we feel comfortable in all positions? Do we sink into the pillow, or does it feel firm?
Size: Does the pillow fit into a standard-size pillowcase? Does it have an odd shape?
The Best Pillows
Best Overall: Cushion Lab CloudLoft Pillow
Cushion Lab CloudLoft Pillow
Cushion Lab
$78 (was $109)
Buy Now
If you want to take your quality of sleep to the next level, allow us to point you in the direction of Cushion Lab’s CloudLoft Pillow. It has topped our list for a number of reasons: Its expert blend of softness and support, for one, that makes it suited for all kinds of sleepers. That can be attributed to its unique blend of foam and fluffy microfiber that makes you feel like you’re actually resting your head and neck on a cloud. The material contours to your shape, keeping you elevated and cocooned all night long. To top it off, it comes with a cover that’s smooth and cooling, and it claims to reduce hair frizz and sleep lines.
Allison, AT’s Director of Brand Activation, is a back and side sleeper, and she swears that the pillow is as lofty as it claims, allowing her “to sleep comfortably without sinking down or waking up with a stiff neck.”
“This pillow never flattened out and while it was filled and supportive it wasn’t too stiff. It was the perfect balance and conformed to my neck and shoulders,” she continues. “I never had to re-fluff the pillow in the middle of the night like I typically had to do with my other pillows that would flatten easily.
Specifications:
Nylon-spandex cover with microfiber and memory foam fill
Available in 2 sizes
Machine-washable cover
Certi-PUR US-certified memory foam
1-year limited warranty
Who It’s Best For: Those looking for a pillow that works for all sleeping positions; those who prefer a super-fluffy feel.
Good to Know: You can purchase two and get $7 off, three to get $10 off, and four to get $20 off.
Best Value: Sijo Fluffbase Eucalyptus Pillow
FluffBase Eucalyptus Pillow, Standard/Queen
Sijo Home
$63 (was $70)
Buy Now
The Sijo Fluffbase Eucalyptus Pillow really does tick all the boxes — its eucalyptus down alternative ensures cloud-like sleeping conditions, and ensures you’ll have a cool and dry sleep all night long. “It caught me by surprise how well I slept with this pillow!” says commerce editor Britt. “It’s soft but not too soft, so it provides great support whether I’m on my back, stomach, or side. It also stays cool, which is fantastic for me as a hot sleeper, especially since I’ve been using it during some of the hottest days of the year.”
The super breathable eucalyptus materials also boast natural antibacterial properties, and Sijo goes the extra mile by adding a silver-ion antimicrobial treatment to reduce the spread of fungus and bacteria on top of it.
Read our full review of the Sijo Fluffbase Eucalyptus Pillow.
Specifications:
100% TENCEL lyocell cover with recycled polyester down-alternative fill
Available in 2 sizes
Available in Soft and Medium-Firm
Machine wash cold on gentle cycle; tumble dry low
OEKO-TEX 100 certified
7-day risk free trial
Who It’s Best For: Hot sleepers; those who want a down-like feel without the feathers.
Good to Know: The materials for all Sijo pillows are sustainably produced.
Best Luxury: Saatva Down Alternative Pillow
Down Alternative Pillow
Saatva
$115
Buy Now
We’re of the opinion that bedding is worth investing in — elevating your quality of sleep will also improve your mood during the day, after all. If you’re of the same mind, then you might be after the most luxe pillow out of them all. In that case, Saatva Down Alternative Pillow will make you feel like you’re snoozing in a five-star hotel. It mimics the feel of down — incredibly plush — without all of the drawbacks that come with the real thing. Instead, it’s hypoallergenic, and the filling creates pockets of air to keep your head cushioned. That’s helped along by clusters of memory foam, too, which delivers in the support department. All of that is encased in a breathable cotton cover, with satin piping around the edges for that extra glam factor.
“As a mainly side sleeper, I found this pillow extremely comfortable,” says brand activation associate manager Reece. “There is a lot of fill, and is very soft but has great support for my head and neck. Because it isn’t the tallest pillow out there, I found it to be best for side sleeping since it kept my head and neck elevated at the perfect height. The look and feel of the pillow is very luxurious and has a high quality cover over it that has a silky feel.”
Specifications:
Cotton cover with down-alternative fill
Available in 2 sizes
Spot clean
Fair Trade Certified
1-year limited warranty
45-day trial
Who It’s Best For: Those who like a pillow with a traditional — yet elevated — feel; those who are allergic to regular down.
Good to Know: If you suffer from more intense neck pain, the brand says that this might not be the pillow for you, recommending contouring memory foam or latex instead.
*Honorable Mention: If you’re after real down, Quince’s version is a great bet, and it’s available in everything from soft to extra firm. “If you’re looking for a basic, comfortable pillow that will support your head and neck as you sleep, the Quince Luxe Goose Down Pillow is the one for you,” according to commerce SEO writer Haley. “I chose the medium/firm option and found that I slept quite comfortably all night long — and I’ve owned it for months now! Overall, this pillow doesn’t have any fancy design features—like extra fluff or zip closures — but it’s a solid pillow for the price!”
Best Cooling: Bedsure Breescape Arctic Cooling Pillow
Bedsure Breescape Arctic Cooling Pillow
Amazon
$39.96 (was $59.99)
Hot sleepers know that temperature-regulating bedding can make a major difference — even when it comes to something as seemingly small as your pillow. Instead of flipping the pillow to get the cool side, Bedsure’s Breescape Arctic Cooling Pillow will feel that way all of the time, no readjusting needed. How? Well, it’s covered in mesh and filled with springy foam, which has a 95% open-cell structure. One side is cool-to-the-touch with special fabric, while the other consists of a bamboo blend for breathability. It’s also easy to care for, with a machine-washable cover. It also doesn’t hurt that you can easily grab several of these pillows for your setup thanks to the budget-friendly price.
“I love that this pillow is two sided and that you can easily flip it to sleep on the cooling side if you’re a hot sleeper,” commerce coordinator Mila explains. “Plus, the memory foam of the pillow combined with the mesh fabric on the other side gives me the breathability, comfort, and the neck support that is essential for a side sleeper like me!”
Specifications:
Breescape cooling fabric cover with gel memory foam fill
Available in Soft and Medium-Firm
Machine-washable cover
CertiPUR-US and OEKO-TEX Standard 100-certified
Who It’s Best For: Hot sleepers; those who require more neck support; those on a budget.
Good to Know: The brand recommends simply using the cover it comes with — adding no extra pillowcase — to get the best cooling results.
Best for Neck Pain: Cushion Lab Neck Relief Ergonomic Cervical Pillow
Neck Relief Ergonomic Cervical Pillow
Cushion Lab
$75 (was $85)
Buy Now
Made by in-house ergonomists to conform to the shape of your head, the Neck Relief Ergonomic Cervical Pillow is “an excellent choice for anyone looking for a comfortable and supportive pillow that can help alleviate neck and shoulder pain,” according to AT commerce and branded content social media manager Brian. This pillow allows the neck to maintain its natural curve to release pressure and allows for a healthier alignment. “Additionally, the breathable cover keeps you cool throughout the night, allowing you to sleep comfortably without waking up sweaty. Overall, the Cushion Lab Ergonomic Cervical Pillow is a fantastic investment for anyone looking to improve their sleep quality and reduce neck and shoulder pain,” says Brian.
Specifications:
Organic cotton cover with polyester lining and gel-infused memory foam fill
Medium-firm feel
Machine-washable cover; pillow core is not washable
CertiPUR-US Certified
1-year limited warranty
Who It’s Best For: Those who suffer from neck and/or back pain; those who prefer an ergonomic pillow design.
Good to Know: Cushion Lab also makes knee pillows for side sleepers as well as neck rolls, in case you’re seeking other ergonomic tools to help you sleep even better.
Best for Back Sleepers: Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Symphony Pillow
TEMPUR-Symphony Pillow
Tempur-Pedic
$129
Buy Now
With the TEMPUR-Symphony Pillow, you’ll get the best of both worlds thanks to its two-in-one design that boasts an arched side for back and stomach sleepers and a flatter side for side sleepers. “This pillow is a hybrid sleeper’s dream!” says executive lifestyle director Charli. “I’m a side sleeper who often winds up on my back in the middle of the night. I love that I can flip it over to meet whichever need I have. I have a lot of neck pain at night and this pillow made me forget that was even a thing.” The TEMPUR material is designed to conform to your shape, ensuring a truly personalized sleep experience. Plus, it’s great for hot sleepers, as Charli can attest: “As a hot sleeper, it was also cooling and sleek and easy to swap in and out of a pillowcase. Five stars all around!”
Specifications:
100% polyester cover and TEMPUR memory foam fill
Soft feel
Machine wash cold, then dry on cool; air-drying recommended
CPSIA certified
5-year limited warranty
Who It’s Best For: All sleep styles, but especially combination sleepers; those who prefer memory foam pillows.
Good to Know: The polyester cover is removable and machine washable.
Best for Stomach Sleepers: Sobel Westex Sahara Nights Pillow
Sahara Nights Pillow, Queen
Sobel Westex
$60
Buy Now
A thin yet supportive pillow is necessary for stomach sleepers in order to prevent neck straining, and Sobel Westex’s is a high-quality, affordable option that does just that. This soft-medium pillow is filled with a gel fiber that is perfect for propping up stomach sleepers like our commerce editor, Britt. Right out of the package, she says it feels like “the same downy feel of pillows [she] loves to use on vacation.” This plush pillow helps combat back pain, awkward sleeping positions, as well as tossing and turning in your sleep.
“Thanks to the gel-infused microfiber fill, it has cloud-like comfort with a bit of support to keep me from feeling like my head is directly on my mattress,” she adds. “It’s also durable and malleable: I have the pillow in a Queen size and was able to stuff it into a standard pillowcase without a problem. I didn’t think I could sleep as deeply as I do when I’m traveling, but the Sahara Nights pillow showed me that it’s not where you are, but what you use to sleep.”
Read our full review of the Sahara Nights Pillow.
Specifications:
233-thread count cotton cover with gel-infused microfiber fill
Available in 3 sizes
Medium-soft feel
Spot clean recommended; wash in warm water with mild detergent and tumble dry low
Who It’s Best For: Stomach and back sleepers; those who prefer a softer pillow.
Good to Know: This pillow has been used at Disney hotels, and Sobel Westex also carries a collection of Disney Resort-themed bedding.
Best for Side Sleepers: Honeydew Side Sleeper Pillow
Honeydew Scrumptious Side Pillow
Amazon
$199
Family-owned and made in the USA for over 30 years, this successful business strives to bring comfort in every pillow they create. “This side-sleeper pillow blew me away,” says executive lifestyle director Charli. “Not only is it beautifully made, but it’s also the softest side sleeper pillow I’ve ever used that doesn’t sacrifice pressure relief or neck support. I was impressed with the unboxing, the cooling, and the night-after-night softness and support. This side sleeper is officially a believer!” Designed with cooling copper gel memory, the Honeydew Scrumptious Side Pillow not only works to cool you down at night, but it also adds softness to the overall feel. The fill is fully adjustable to your firmness needs, too, with help from the pillow’s hidden zipper.
“From my neck to my shoulders and even my back, I could instantly feel my body being aligned,” says commerce SEO editor Sarah. “Needless to say, I was excited to get to bed. That night I got what I can only describe as the best sleep of my life.” However, the proof is really in how she felt afterward. “The next morning, I woke up with no pain whatsoever, and more than four months later, I’m still sleeping the same. If I had to sum up my thoughts on this pillow in two words, it would be this: miracle worker.”
Read our full review of Honeydew Side Sleeper Pillow.
Specifications:
Cotton and TENCEL cover with gel memory foam, microfiber, and down alternative fill
Available in 2 sizes
Adjustable firmness
Machine-washable cover
Certi-PUR US and OEKO-TEX Standard 100-certified
3-year warranty
Who It’s Best For: Those who sleep hot; those who have neck pain.
Good to Know: When you first unbox the pillow, you can toss it in the dryer on low to have it fluff up more quickly.
Best for Combination Sleepers:
Purple Harmony Pillow, Standard, Medium Height
Purple
$199
Buy Now
With a tagline of “The Greatest Pillow Ever Invented,” we had high expectations of the Purple Harmony Pillow. Over 30,000 five-star reviews is nothing to scoff at either. Luckily, it lives up to the hype, according to commerce assistant editor Morgan. There’s an option for every kind of sleeper thanks to the range of heights available (including low, medium, and high). Morgan, who alternates between her stomach, side, and back throughout the night, has found that the medium version is stellar for all three positions. It has to do with the brand’s unique Honeycomb GelFlex Grid layer and spongy interior, making your head feel like it’s weightless. The Grid is also temperature-regulating, enhanced by airy Talalay Latex and a moisture-wicking mesh cover.
“I always thought I was a down alternative or nothing kind of person, but man, did this pillow prove me wrong,” Morgan says, who’s ended up with two Harmony pillows on her bed. “It’s so comfortable in every position, and I’m a restless sleeper that moves around quite a bit before actually falling asleep. Usually, I have to fluff my pillow over and over again throughout. However, this one retains its shape no matter what. I’ve even noticed less aches in my neck in the morning!”
Read our full review of the Purple Harmony Pillow.
Specifications:
Nylon-spandex cover with polymer and polyester-wrapped latex core
Available in 3 sizes and 3 heights
Machine-washable
CleanAir Gold-Certified
1-year warranty
100-night trial
Who It’s Best For: Combination sleepers; those who prefer a soft and squishy pillow texture.
Good to Know: The grid texture might take a bit of getting used to, but it’s hardly noticeable through a thick pillowcase, Morgan says. Plus, you can get 10% off if you purchase two Harmony pillows.
Best Unique: Pluto Pillow
Pluto Pillow
Pluto
$110
Buy Now
If you are looking for the perfect pillow made exactly for you, look no further than the Pluto Pillow. Pluto has you complete an 11-question quiz to make sure you’re getting the pillow of your dreams that will meet all your needs. It asks about you, your current pillow, and your pillow preferences, including your sleeping habits. “I admit I was skeptical about my ideal pillow being determined by an online quiz, but as soon as I got my hands on it, all of my concerns flew out the window,” says Britt.
Based on your results, you’ll receive a pillow with a foam core with the perfect thickness for your sleeping style; it comes wrapped in a plush cover with a thickness based on your answers to whether you’re a hot sleeper or just need some basic regulation. “When it comes to comfort, my Pluto Pillow certainly delivered. It’s not too bulky or too firm, and it’s just as nice to lay on it on my back while scrolling my phone in bed, as it is to fall asleep on my stomach or roll over onto my side,” says Britt.
Read our full review of the Pluto Pillow.
Specifications:
Customizable cover and fill
Available in 2 sizes
Firmness level is dependent upon your quiz answers
CertiPUR-US Certified
1-year limited warranty
125-night trial
Who It’s Best For: All sleep types; those who prefer a customized pillow made specifically for their preferences.
Good to Know: Although many Pluto owners love their pillows from the first night, the brand recommends sleeping on your pillow for two weeks as an adjustment period.
Additional reporting by Kendall Cornish and Samantha Hunter.
Further Reading
We Tested (and Rated!) Every Sofa at West Elm — Here Are the Best for Every Type of Need
Everything You’ve Ever Wanted To Know About Article’s DTC Furniture
We Asked 8 Pro Travelers What They Never Pack in Their Carry-On, and Here’s What They Said
