Pillow Types: The Ultimate Guide

Pillows are a vital element that could drastically affect the quality of your sleep and how relaxing it is. It’s crucial to choose the type of pillow that fits your sleeping style and preference, as it can make a night and day difference. There are different types of pillows in terms of shapes and fillings, with each type accommodating different sleepers.

Types of pillows

bedroom Pillows are classified by their filling, and each type of filling differs in its feel and comfort, as each type is designed to accommodate different types of sleepers.

Here is a breakdown of some of the most common pillow-filling types:

Down Pillows

Price Range

A natural down pillow is one of the most luxurious and expensive types of pillows, which also makes it one of the most expensive pillow types as it could cost up to $600.

Materials Used

The most common types of down are goose down and duck down, with duck down being the more affordable option, however, goose down is less likely to retain any unpleasant odors, and it has great cooling properties, as it's one of the more sufficient cooling pillows.

Comfort

A natural down pillow offers a very comfortable and relaxing sleeping experience, as it’s very soft to the touch. It's one of the best pillows for neck pain and compresses underneath the head, which prevents any discomfort in the neck.

Health Considerations

All-natural down pillows with no chemical treatment can trigger allergic reactions in some people; they're also prone to mold and dust mite buildup.

Durability

Down pillows are known for their durability, and with proper maintenance and care, a high-quality down pillow could last from 5 to 10 years with the proper pillow care, such as using pillowcases.

Firmness

A down pillow is extremely fluffy, and plush pillows such as down pillows compress beneath the head, with sufficient pillow support and decent fill power.

Artificial Down / Down Alternative Pillows

Price Range

An artificial down pillow is typically way less expensive than a natural down pillow; they’re also some of the cheapest pillow options on the market, as their range of prices starts at $15.99.

Materials Used

Synthetic down alternatives, often called "artificial down," come in various materials, with polyester and microfibers being particularly common. However, compared to natural down, these synthetic materials generally offer less insulation, meaning they may not keep you as warm at night. But that won’t be an issue when used for a pillow.

Comfort

Synthetic down alternative pillows are very comfortable and have a very similar feel when compared with a down pillow but are even softer, they're a great option for side sleepers, back sleepers, and combination sleepers.

Health Considerations

These pillows generally have a feel that is quite similar to that of genuine down pillows; however, they're also considered hypoallergenic for people who are suffering from any sort of allergy, and they're also one of the best cooling pillows.

Durability

Just like natural down pillows, the lifespan of artificial down pillows depends on how well-maintained they are; however, they have a shorter lifespan than natural down, as they could last from 1 to 3 years before showing any signs of wear.

Firmness

Artificial down pillows come in many firmness options, from soft to medium to firm, and you can choose which level of firmness you’d like according to your sleeping position and style.

Feather Pillows

Price Range

Starting at about $25, feather pillows are usually less costly than down pillows; however, a higher price tag should be expected for a high-quality feather pillow.

Materials Used

Feathers from ducks and geese are the usual material that is commonly used to make feather pillows.

Comfort

The soft, breathable, and moldable nature of feathers makes for a plush pillow that fits any sleeper or head shape.

Health Considerations

The breathability and moldable nature of feathers make for a plush pillow that fits any sleeper or head shape, as it's one of the most comfortable pillows for side sleepers and back sleepers.

Durability

Feather pillows that are well-maintained can last longer than certain other types of pillows, which ultimately makes them a more affordable option.

Firmness

There are three firmness categories for feather pillows: soft, medium, and firm. However, because feather pillows contain quills, they typically feel slightly firmer than down pillows with similar ratings.

Memory Foam Pillows

Price Range

A memory foam pillow is a very popular option as it can conform and adapt to the shape and movement of the head and neck, but also because, while it’s not the most affordable option on the market, it isn’t considered to be very expensive, as the price of a memory foam pillow will range from $30 to $150.

Materials Used

Shredded and block memory foam pillow fills are the two varieties that are typically available. Block memory foam pillows, also known as solid memory foam, have consistent shape retention and are quite supportive.

A shredded memory foam pillow may be crumpled and molded by sleepers as needed; they feel more like conventional pillows, with better temperature regulation. They also tend to have more breathability, and some have detachable zippered pillowcases that allow you to adjust the loft and hardness.

Comfort

Being able to mold and adjust to different forms and movements makes memory foam pillows one of the best pillows for sleeping. If you sleep hot, though, they might not be the best choice for you because they retain heat, unless they have a cooling gel that enhances its cooling properties Nevertheless, memory foam pillows are also among the best for travel, it's also the best pillow for side and back sleepers.

Health Considerations

In contrast to natural materials, memory foam is made from synthetic material, meaning that it usually won't cause an allergic response. Memory foam is also regarded as a hypoallergenic material, so you won't have to worry about mildew, dust mites, or other allergens. If you tend to sleep hot, consider buying a memory foam gel pillow.

Durability

Memory foam pillows are not the most durable material, as their average lifespan is between 8 and 12 years, but it completely depends on the overall maintenance of the pillow.

Firmness

If you prefer a more firm pillow, then a memory foam pillow might not be the one for you, as the pillow's softness and pillow shape conform to the shape and movement of the head and neck, but it also has great shape retention.

Latex Pillows

Price Range

The price range of a latex pillow is very similar to that of a memory foam pillow; the average price for a latex pillow ranges from $30 to $150.

Materials Used

A shredded latex pillow and shredded memory foam pillows aren’t very different from each other. Since latex is comprised of rubber, you might find it more bouncy than memory foam.

Comfort

The feel of a latex pillow and a memory foam pillow aren’t very different from each other. Since latex is comprised of rubber, you might find it more bouncy than memory foam.

Health Considerations

In terms of health considerations, a latex pillow is mold- and dust-mite-resistant. As latex pillows are considered to be hypoallergenic, they're also one of the best cooling pillows. However, you should be cautious before buying a latex product because many of them are combined with artificial chemicals.

Durability

Generally speaking, memory foam and polyfoam pillows are not as durable as solid latex pillows. The average latex pillow lasts two to four years.

Firmness

A latex pillow can be soft and conforming, however, they're a bit firmer than memory foam pillows.

Wool Pillows

Price Range

Wool pillows’ price range often falls in the mid-range category, as it’s neither very expensive nor budget-friendly.

Materials Used

Wool can be blended with other materials or used on its own. Wool frequently doesn’t conform and flatten when used as the only fill material, and over time, the fill may also clump; however, clumping is decreased when wool fill is mixed with polyester or cotton.

Comfort

Wool fill is a temperature-regulating material that can be used both in summer and winter thanks to it being simultaneously breathable, insulating, and moisture-wicking.

Health Considerations

Wool is a natural material, making it a great option for a pillow fill, especially for those with allergies or eco-conscious shoppers.

Durability

A wool pillow is one of the longest-lasting pillows on the market; if it’s well-maintained and properly taken care of, it could last a lifetime.

Firmness

The firmness of the wool pillow depends on whether it’s used by itself as a filling or if it’s combined with other materials, which makes wool pillows come in a variety of firmnesses.

Comparing Pillow Types

Pillow Shapes

There are different pillow types and sizes, with many shapes for pillows to fit different sleeping styles. These shapes are available for all fillings; however, you need to consider which feeling option you choose, as it could drastically change the properties of the pillow.

Standard

• Description: The basic standard pillow comes in a classic rectangular form, It is the most popular choice, and it comes in a variety of sizes, lofts, fill types, and firmness levels.
• Best For: The standard pillow is the safest and most convenient option when it comes to pillows. No matter which sleeping position you prefer, a standard pillow will do a sufficient job to enhance the quality of your sleep.

Contour

• Description: Contour pillows have a unique shape with a soft bend in the middle of the pillow. In contrast, the upper and lower ends of the pillows are higher and firmer; they embrace your neck in the lower area between the two higher edges and give you extra support.
• Best For: Contour pillows are typically made from dense layers of memory foam to provide conformity and promote spinal alignment, so they're a great choice for people who tend to prefer back and side sleeping positions.

Wedge

• Description: Just like its name, wedge pillows have the shape of a wedge, or a triangle, as it’s thinner on the top, and as you go toward the base, it becomes thicker, and it's one of the best firm pillows.
• Best For: The main purpose of wedge pillows is to prop your head up a couple of inches higher, or provide decent support while you’re sitting on the bed to watch TV or read.

Body

• Description: A body pillow is a body-sized pillow that can be hugged or cradled while you’re asleep. Body pillows can be as long as your body, so you can put them between your legs while simultaneously placing your head on them.
• Best For: If you’re a side sleeper and looking for good pillows, then a body pillow is one of the best, as you can wrap your arms and legs around it for proper spinal support.

Cervical

• Description: Cervical Pillows, which can also be called orthopedic pillows, are in a way similar to contour pillows, as they cradle your neck, provide extra support, and maintain neutral spinal alignment, as they have a curve that you can place your neck in.
• Best For: Cervical pillows are especially convenient for back sleepers, as their necks will fit the denture in the pillow in a more suitable way than side or stomach sleepers, who might be irritated by the unusual shape of the pillow.

Choosing a Pillow Type

Choosing between different pillow shapes, filling options, and pillow materials could be tricky. There are several elements to consider before buying a pillow that will increase your chances of finding the pillow that fits you the most.

Sleeping Position

Whether you sleep on your stomach, back, or side, the hardness and loft of the mattress will affect how well you sleep; therefore, one of the most important things to think about when purchasing a pillow is your preferred sleeping position. Your bed pillow should be supportive and comfy.

Filling

The filling of the pillow is the most essential component of the pillow, it will affect the performance of the pillow, its firmness, and even the price of the mattress.

Loft

"Pillow loft," which refers to the height or thickness of your pillow, can vary depending on the pillow's design and filling materials.

Firmness

Pillows come in various firmness levels: soft, medium, and firm. Each firmness level affects the overall quality and performance of the pillow.

Size

There are 5 different sizes for pillows, standard, queen, king, and body. You should choose which size of pillow you need according to the mattress size, and your sleeping style. If you want to know more about pillow sizes, check out the article Pillow Sizes: The Ultimate Guide.

Budget

If you’re on a budget, you should take into consideration which type of pillow you are buying, as a natural down mattress could be out of your budget; meanwhile, a memory foam or a latex pillow could be a more affordable option.

Allergy Considerations:

Some pillow fillings might trigger an allergic reaction in some people, especially natural fillings such as natural down pillows.

Pros of Sleeping on a Suitable Pillow Type:

• Reduced Snoring: A suitable pillow will properly align your head and neck, preventing your tongue from obstructing your airway.
• Spinal Pressure Relief: When you sleep on a suitable pillow, it fills the gap between your head and neck and the mattress, keeping your spine in a neutral alignment.
• Enhanced Comfort: A suitable pillow will allow you to maintain a healthy sleeping position, and reduce muscle tension in your neck and shoulders, leading to a more relaxed and comfortable sleep.

If you want to know more about choosing the right pillow for you to enjoy the following benefits, check out this article: Choosing the Right Pillow: Everything You Should Know

Cons of Sleeping on an Unsuitable Pillow Type:

• Neck soreness: Sleeping on an unsuitable pillow can cause your neck to be out of alignment, leading to stiffness, soreness, and pain upon waking.
• Frequent Headaches: An unsuitable pillow might cause muscle tension or strain as well as spinal misalignment, all of which can trigger headaches, particularly tension headaches.
• Allergies: If you pick a mattress that contains a filling you are allergic to, it will eventually trigger allergies and respiratory problems.

FAQs

What is the best pillow for back sleepers?

Back sleepers will most likely prefer a firm and thick pillow or a soft and thin pillow with down filling or foam filling, whether it’s memory foam, latex, or any other type of foam, which will offer sufficient support for their head and preserve their natural spine alignment. A contour pillow or a standard pillow is a great fit for back sleepers.

What are the best pillow types for stomach sleepers?

Many top-rated pillows would be great for stomach sleepers, but their best option is probably a thin standard pillow, which will allow their head to sink for a bit, to avoid neck pain, as it will be aligned with the spine.

What is the best pillow for a side sleeper?

A foam pillow is probably the best pillow for side sleepers as it provides uniform support and spinal alignment, but keep in mind that this pillow needs to be thick so it can provide for side sleepers support for the neck. Body pillows are the best bed pillows for sleeping in a side position, and they're also considered to be one of the pregnancy pillow types.

Why is it important to choose the right pillow?

A good pillow that suits your sleeping pattern will greatly improve the quality of your sleep, and prevent neck pain. A perfect cushion shouldn't place any pressure on your pressure points and should keep your head, neck, and spine in a neutral position.

What should I avoid when buying a pillow?

You should avoid buying the wrong pillow for your sleeping position, or pillow fills that you’re allergic to, as well as any types of bed pillows that don't provide sufficient neck support, as this could disturb your sleep and cause neck pain.

Can a bad pillow ruin sleep?

Yes, a bad pillow will ruin your sleeping experience, as it might lead to neck pain and frequent headaches, which will lead to poor sleeping quality.

What is a pillow that can be recommended for people with sensitive skin?

For those who are sensitive to chemicals, organic cotton might make an excellent pillow material because it is pure and natural. Unlike synthetic pillows, cotton pillows may "breathe" in warm weather. Using a cotton pillow will make your sleep cooler and more pleasant.

What type of pillow is safest?

Certified organic cotton and latex make for extremely safe pillows. To be sure your pillow is completely chemical-free, look for the GreenGuard Gold, Global Organic Textile, and Global Organic Latex certifications.

What types of pillows can be found in 5-star hotels?

Different types of pillows can be found in hotels; however, a down pillow is considered the most luxurious pillow filling type, and it tends to be the most popular choice in hotels, most commonly goose-down pillows, which offer more benefits than duck-down, but they're also more expensive.

How do you maintain your pillows?

Use pillow protectors and pillowcases and clean them regularly, and according to the material of your pillow, you need to know how to wash pillows.

Conclusion

Pillows come in an assortment of forms and dimensions, each with a distinct type of stuffing. Aside from assessing the materials and structure, there are other factors to consider when selecting a pillow. Your body type, preferred sleeping position, preferred pillow material, and your sleeping preferences all play a role in determining the best pillow for you.