Ever wonder what you could do to improve your sleep? Well, last month, I was invited to an overnight sleep retreat by the lovely folks at Dunelm. The trip's aim was to highlight the brand's vast range of the best mattresses and bedding, and to meet Dunelm's sleep experts. The day would end with everyone spending the night in their own personal treehouse cabin furnished top-to-toe in Dunelm products, along with a bed that has been completely tailored to each individual's needs, ensuring we had a perfect night's sleep.

Now, buying a mattress, duvet or pillow isn't a one-size-fits-all affair. Choosing the wrong product can completely ruin your chances of a good eight hours of shut-eye. So I was intrigued to find out how Dunelm plans to help inform its customers on how to find the right products to buy.

No surprises, then, that I found myself on a train last Thursday, bound for the beautiful Wildhive at Callow Hall in Derbyshire, where Dunelm was hosting its special Sleep Retreat. In advance of the stay, the brand's expert team sent me a questionnaire, asking detailed questions about how I sleep to find my ideal bed and bedding setup.

After we arrived, and were shown the beautiful treehouses where we'd be spending the night (pretty much everything in the rooms apart from the painted cupboard in the corner was from Dunelm!) and then we headed off for a special sleep presentation.

Here, Dunelm's experts talked us through the brand's sleep ranges and the wealth of products that it offers. To say that it stocks a wide selection is an understatement - there really is something for everyone, covering all bases in quality, affordability and practicality.

Dunelm's sleep ranges are split into five brands

To understand the options available at Dunelm, you need to get your head around some names, as its bedroom collections are split among five in-house brands.

At the most affordable end of the scale, you have Dunelm's core collections, which feature basics at great prices, including rolled and lightweight mattresses, pillows, duvets and bedding protection.

Next, there's Dunelm's Comfort Zone range, which focuses on products that offer extra support - these will include lots of memory foam and gel fillings, as well as body and support pillows. Comfort, here, is key.

Right in the middle is Fogarty, a heritage brand that Dunelm has owned for over a decade. It specialises in technical bedding, including synthetic and natural materials, as well as anti-allergy and cooling ranges.

Next, Hotel is one of the brand's more luxurious collections, and as the name suggests, it aims to bring a boutique hotel vibe to your bedroom. It specialises in pocket-sprung and memory foam pillow-top mattresses, as well as cotton bedding with high thread counts.

Finally, there's Dorma - a heritage brand dating back to 1921 (almost as old as Ideal Home!), which has been owned by Dunelm for 18 years.

Naturally, this is the brand's top-end bedroom collection (it holds a royal warrant, after all) with luxe materials including silk, merino wool, cashmere, alpaca and high-thread-count cotton, alongside premium pocket sprung, split tension and hand-finished mattresses.

Admittedly, you won't find every single product at your local store - there are several warehouses' worth of product available on the Dunelm website. But even I was surprised at the sheer volume of products available, as well as the variety, that you can choose from.

The number of bedding options that Dunelm has to offer is pretty vast

Before I went on this trip with Dunelm, I knew the brand sold a selection of mattresses, duvets and pillows. But I really had no clue how large this offering was. As I type this, a quick search on its website shows that there are over 640 double mattresses to choose from, over 1,000 double duvets and more than 150 of the best pillows.

Thankfully, Dunelm acknowledges that there's a lot to choose from, so it's currently rolling out special questionnaires (rather like the one I filled in before the sleep retreat) to help point people in the right direction when shopping for the ideal mattress, duvet or pillow.

Unsure of what you might need? Try it out yourself - search for 'mattress' on the Dunelm website, and its Mattress Matchmaker quiz will pop up.

No matter how you sleep, they have you covered

When choosing a mattress, you need to look at the way you sleep, as this will inform the best option to guarantee a good night's sleep. Whether you sleep on your side, back, or front (or a combination of these), Dunelm has a variety of options for all.

Take Dunelm's Comfort Zone memory foam rolled mattress, £219, for instance. It's a great mattress for side sleepers as the memory foam provides a decent amount of pressure relief for shoulders and hips as you drift off. Team that with a high-profile pillow to give your neck and head ample support, like Dunelm's Dorma Full Forever Side Sleeper Pillows, £20 for two.

Meanwhile, front sleepers, like me, need a medium support mattress (the Dorma Natural 10000 Pocket Sprung Horsehair Mattress, £1,259 is a great option) and a squishy, low-profile pillow so we don't get neck strain, so the Dunelm team selected a range of products to help me sleep like a baby.

Personally, the Dorma luxurious goose down soft support pillow, £60, was a total dream to sleep upon, so much so, I pretty much begged the team to let me take it away with me when I left...

What's more, the brand also stocks a great selection of body pillows, perfect for pregnant women or those with back, neck, or hip issues. There are huggable V-shaped designs, foam-filled wedge backs and knee wedges.

They're really good on eco cred too

Something that Dunelm does really well, which it tends not to shout about enough, is its commitment to using sustainable products.

The brand has a wide range of products made from natural materials - 70% of the cotton in its own-brand bedding ranges is responsibly sourced.

And while it will still stock products made using synthetic materials - as they're ideal for those with allergies or on a low budget - 75% of the polyester used in its own-brand bedding products is recycled.

What's more, Dunelm mattresses are built to last, too, and the brand backs that up with guarantees on every mattress sold, from 5 to 20 years. And when you're ready to upgrade yours, ​Dunelm has partnered with the British Heart Foundation to collect and give your old mattress another home, ensuring it doesn't automatically end up in landfill.

And don't forget all the finishing touches...

I can't not mention all the other products that make up a bedroom, as it's pretty much all available at Dunelm, too. As previously mentioned, virtually everything in my sleep retreat cabin was by Dunelm, from the bedding to the headboard to the lighting. As a one-stop shop for a whole bedroom makeover, Dunelm is pretty hard to beat.

So if your sleep setup could do with an upgrade, from the bones of your bedding to the decor that surrounds it, I'd definitely suggest checking Dunelm out.

My Fine Bedding Adjustable HoneyFoam Pillow review tests this unusual-looking pillow to see how it compares to the best pillows on the market. *Spoiler alert*: if you're looking for the best pillow for a side sleeper, you'll want to read on.

In a nutshell

The Fine Bedding Adjustable HoneyFoam Pillow is an adjustable pillow that has an inner core filled with memory foam clusters that can be added or removed to make it the exact right height for your sleep preferences.

I usually sleep on the Simba Hybrid pillow, which offers a similar style of adjustable memory foam fill, so I was interested to see how the HoneyFoam pillow would compare, and overall, I found it plumper and softer.

As a side and occasional back sleeper, I enjoyed having the option to change the height and firmness of my pillow to get a custom fit, and I found my head stayed nicely cradled in one place throughout the night. That meant that during my four-week testing period, I've been waking with a less stiff neck and shoulder.

I also found that the HoneyFoam's temperature regulation was surprisingly good for a memory foam pillow, and I like that it has a removable and machine-washable cover to help keep things fresh.

Plus, thanks to its HoneyFoam fill being partially made from renewable raw materials, Fine Bedding says that this pillow has a 50% lower carbon footprint versus standard memory foam made from fossil fuels. And, to help reduce waste and prolong the life of the pillow, you can buy replacements for both the clusters and outer cover when the time comes.

In my opinion, the only thing this pillow lacks is the option of a sleep trial, and at £99, it isn't cheap. However, the fact that you can adjust the filling means it's likely to work for you whether you're a side, back, or front sleeper, and I think that makes it a great buy.

Fine Bedding Adjustable HoneyFoam Pillow review

Specifications

• Best for: side, back and front sleepers
• RRP: £99
• Heights available: various
• Dimensions: 74 x 48cm
• Feel: adjustable depending on fill level
• Materials: recycled polyester outer, biomass balance PU foam filling
• Care instructions: the removable quilted cover is machine-washable at 40°c, the foam clusters can't be washed
• Manufacturer sleep trial: none

Comfort

For as long as I can remember, I have always been a side and occasional back sleeper. I'm pretty sure I end up in the recovery position on some nights, too. And yet, despite everything I know about how to choose a pillow, I've always struggled to find a pillow that I'm 100% happy with. That was until I tested the Fine Bedding Adjustable HoneyFoam Pillow.

A good night's sleep isn't one-size-fits-all, and the brand knows this. The HoneyFoam pillow is soft yet supportive, and filled with memory foam clusters that can be added or removed to adjust the pillow's feel and height.

I found that the pillow arrived with just the right number of HoneyFoam clusters to slip into the inner cover and give the pillow the height I need to sleep comfortably on my side. That makes it about 20cm high.

I also found it to be the perfect height when I was lying on my back, and although I'm not a front sleeper, it's easy enough to remove about half of the memory foam clusters to make it into a comfortable stomach sleeping pillow.

Handily, the HoneyFoam pillow arrives with a storage bag for any clusters you'd like to remove, and if you want to replace or add more clusters for a firmer feel, these can be bought separately.

As of writing, extra Adjustable HoneyFoam Clusters cost £20 for a 300g bag on the Fine Bedding website. I found I had more than enough provided, but it's good to know there's the option to add more, and to replace any filling that becomes a little flattened over time, without having to replace the whole pillow.

It's also worth noting that my mattress (the TEMPUR Ease) is a memory foam mattress. My body sinks into this, as my head does on the pillow. Side sleepers who sleep on a firmer mattress may find they need to add more HoneyFoam clusters to achieve a comfortable pillow height.

As I've mentioned, I'm used to sleeping on the Simba Hybrid Pillow, and in comparison, I found the Fine Bedding Adjustable HoneyFoam Pillow doesn't feel as dense. Instead, I found it feels plump and squishy, yet supportive.

Full credit for that squishiness doesn't all go to the filling. The super soft, quilted cover with cute honeycomb-shaped detailing provides a cushioned layer of comfort on top of the HoneyFoam clusters inside.

Temperature regulation

I have to admit, I am a cold person. I only really seem to get hot (and bothered) when I'm doing some cardio, or when I'm on the school run, and by the time I've resumed my 'normal' resting status, I start to feel the cold again.

This is especially true at bedtime, and I often climb into bed wearing my dressing gown to warm up. I haven't quite gotten to the point of wearing a hat in bed, but my head usually stays at a consistent temperature through the night, and I'm not prone to overheating.

However, when I sleep on my Simba Hybrid pillow, I do find I need to flip or rotate it every so often, as, despite its cooling tech, I find it can get warm sometimes. I was expecting the same with the Fine Bedding Adjustable HoneyFoam Pillow, especially as it has a polyester outer cover. I usually prefer natural materials for breathability and sustainability reasons, but during testing, I actually found this pillow slept pretty cool.

The brand says that the 'hexagon-shaped clusters promote better airflow' than a standard memory foam pillow, and that seemed to be the case. I found there was a lot less heat built up around and underneath my head during the night.

All in all, this pillow exceeded my expectations of maintaining a comfortable temperature overnight.

Ease of care

The memory foam clusters of the HoneyFoam Pillow can not be washed, but the outer cover can be unzipped and popped in the washing machine at 40°C.

This is also a standard-sized pillow, which makes adding a pillow protector and a pillowcase much easier.

From time to time, you may wish to 'fluff up' or redistribute the memory foam clusters to keep the pillow plump, or replace these clusters to keep the pillow fresh.

Sleep trial

While The Fine Bedding Company offers a 30-day returns service if you change your mind about this pillow before sleeping on it, this is not the same as a sleep trial that allows you to test out a pillow by actually sleeping on it for a set period of time.

Unfortunately, a sleep trial is something that the brand doesn't offer yet, which is a shame, because at £99 this pillow isn't cheap, and it can take a good few nights to find out if a pillow is really the one for you.

However, the fact that you can unzip the cover and remove the desired amount of foam clusters means you can adjust the pillow to your optimal height and firmness. It also offers the flexibility to adjust whether the pillow feels soft, medium or firm. That means there's much more likelihood of it being the perfect fit compared to your average pillow.

Value for money

The Fine Bedding Adjustable HoneyFoam Pillow costs £99, which isn't cheap. However, I have tested a lot more expensive pillows, and a lot that are far less expensive, and many of them haven't offered good value for money in one way or another, whereas I do think that the HoneyFoam Pillow does.

Because you can personalise the height and firmness, it's one of the very few pillows that can be made suitable for front, back and side sleeping positions. And that adjustable filling means you can choose whether your pillow has a firm and plump or loose and soft fill.

You can also prolong the life of this pillow with replacement HoneyFoam clusters and outer covers, which will keep it out of landfill for longer, and these are cheaper than buying a new pillow from scratch. Experts recommend replacing your pillows every two years, so that expense can soon add up.

Overall, I think this pillow certainly offers enough bang for your buck that it provides good value for money.

How I tested

In order to test out this pillow, I slept on it for two weeks on my own bed to assess its comfort and temperature regulation. I also assessed its ease of care, any sleep trials available, and how it compares to similar products on the market to see if it offers good value for money.

In this Emma Premium Cloud Pillow review, I put one of the brand's bestsellers through its paces to see how it compares to the best pillows on the market.

In a nutshell

The Emma Premium Cloud Pillow, as its name might suggest, is a part of Emma's premium pillow range.

It's packed with fluffy microfibre polyester, which I found gives it a cloud-like medium-soft feel. I usually sleep on a feather and down pillow, and the Premium Cloud does a good job of mimicking the feel of down, but with a slightly denser and more supportive structure.

The bonus of that synthetic filling is that this pillow is also fully machine washable and quick to dry – good news for anyone with allergies. It's just a shame Emma doesn't seem to use recycled polyester in its products, unlike most of its competitors

As a box-wall design, the Premium Cloud pillow is best for side sleepers, as the built-in side panel helps to maintain a good height throughout the night. Even better, it's height-adjustable, with two inserts that you can add or remove to create a pillow that better fits the space between your ear and the mattress.

The only downside (beyond its fairly expensive £80 price tag) is that I found it too high for back sleeping, so if you're a combination sleeper, this may not be the best option for you.

However, overall, I really enjoyed the Emma Premium Cloud pillow's pairing of height and marshmallowy softness. And the fact that the pillow comes with a 30-night sleep trial is very useful for testing it out before you commit.

If you usually sleep on your side and don't like a firm pillow, I think this is one of the best pillows for side sleepers who prefer a softer feel beneath their head.

Emma Premium Cloud Pillow review

Specifications

• Best for: side sleepers
• RRP: £80
• Heights available: 1, but it's adjustable
• Dimensions: H adjustable x W50 x L70cm
• Feel: medium-soft
• Materials: cover: polyester, inner: microfibre polyester
• Care instructions: machine-washable at 40°C, low tumble dry
• Manufacturer sleep trial: 44 nights

Comfort

This is a microfibre pillow, which means it's filled with soft and fluffy combed polyester. I found it feels nicely squishy and marshmallow-like, which is great news if you're a fan of a softer pillow, like me.

I usually sleep on a feather and down pillow, and I found the Emma Premium Cloud to feel very similar, with the bonus that there are fewer concerns about animal cruelty to worry about, and the microfibre fill is easier to wash. But more on that later.

It's also a 'box edge' pillow, which means that it has side panels that create a higher loft.

A box-wall pillow is perfect for side sleepers, as when we sleep on our side, we need a pillow deep enough to fill the gap between our ear and the mattress in order to keep our head, neck, and spine well aligned, and the box design helps to create that height.

Another bonus for side sleepers is the fact that this pillow's height is adjustable. This is helpful because we all have different-sized body frames, so what is the right height pillow for one side sleeper won't necessarily be the right height for another.

Unzip the padded cover of the pillow, and there are two thin inserts inside. I kept both inside the pillow to start with, but soon found that it made the pillow feel a little too high for me as my neck was arching upwards a little.

I removed the first, and then the other, and this pillow was soon the exact right height for me to sleep comfortably on my side.

Emma's isn't the only adjustable pillow on the market; there's also the Simba Hybrid Pillow, which offers similar adaptability by way of foam 'nanocubes' that can be added or removed to adjust the pillow's height.

The Simba Hybrid is perhaps the more versatile option, as you can create any height pillow you want. In contrast, the Emma Premium Cloud only offers three height options. However, in practice, I appreciated the simplicity of Emma's design. There was less mess and faff in adjusting it, and I found the inserts easier to store.

Overall, I really liked the Premium Cloud's combination of height and marshmallowy softness. If you're a side sleeper who doesn't like a firm pillow, this is a great option.

Temperature regulation

Emma says that the Premium Cloud pillow uses 'Outlast® technology' that 'actively manages heat by absorbing, storing, and releasing it'. This means the pillow's fabric is coated in a natural wax that aims to maintain a balanced and comfortable sleeping temperature throughout the night.

I'm a hot sleeper, and I usually find I overheat sleeping on (or under) synthetic materials, so I was pleasantly surprised to find this wasn't the case with the Cloud pillow.

I didn't find it quite as cool to sleep on as my usual feather and down pillow, but I found it far cooler than most memory foam pillows, and cooler than a lot of polyester and microfibre pillows I've tested.

Ease of care

One of the good things about this pillow is that it's fully machine washable. A lot of pillows that contain memory foam can't be washed, and only the cover can be put through a rinse cycle.

But because the Emma Premium Cloud pillow is made from polyester, that means the entire thing can be popped into the washing machine at 40°C, which could be good news for anyone with allergies.

The pillow can then be line-dried or tumble-dried on a low heat setting, and because of polyester's quick-drying nature, neither takes long to do. You might just find you need to redistribute the filling after washing, as I found it tended to clump together a little unevenly.

Sleep trial

Another good thing about this pillow is that it comes with a 30-night sleep trial that allows you to test out whether the Emma Premium Cloud offers you a comfortable night's sleep before you commit to keeping it.

That's important, because pillows aren't one-size-fits-all, and what suits one person can be very different from what suits another.

The only downside is that, unlike most other retailers, Emma doesn't give a lot of detail on what happens to products returned via its sleep trial. Brands like Simba commit to recycling or repurposing items that are returned, but Emma is less transparent about how unwanted goods are given a new life.

Value for money

The Emma Premium Cloud Pillow costs £80 at full price. That kind of price ticket isn't unheard of in the world of pillows, although I do think it's quite steep for what is essentially a polyester-filled pillow.

When it comes to the best fillings for a pillow, polyester is usually the most affordable option, and this price point is more reminiscent of premium feather and down.

I was also a little disappointed by my first impressions of the Premium Cloud. Just like the Emma Original Hybrid Pillow I recently reviewed, it's delivered boxed and vacuum-packed in plastic, so initial impressions are a little underwhelming considering this pillow's luxury price point.

Aside from the plastic packaging – not the most environmentally-friendly decision – I was also disappointed that the polyester filling and cover aren't made from recycled fibres.

This does seem to be an area Emma is falling a little short in comparison to its competitors, with most bedding brands now making far more effort towards sustainable manufacture. If I'm paying £80 for a pillow, then I'd much prefer to invest in an option that's making greater efforts to reduce its environmental impact.

However, when I removed the packaging, the Cloud pillow soon expanded to its full size, and I did find it really comfortable to sleep on.

Plus, its adjustable height is still a rarity in the world of pillows, and I found it made a big difference to my sleep comfort.

The brand's main competitor, Simba, offers the adjustable Simba Hybrid Pillow for £109. In comparison, the Emma Premium Cloud Pillow offers slightly less flexibility in its adjustability, but if one of its three height options suits you, at nearly £30 less, it could be a great buy.

Overall, if this pillow ends up being the right fit for your body – and therefore offers you a better night's sleep – that could make it well worth its price. And the good news is you do get that 30-night sleep trial to give it a test drive before you commit.

How I tested

In order to test out the Emma Premium Cloud Pillow for this review, I slept on it for a week on my own bed.

During the testing period I rated its comfort, temperature regulation, and ease of care, and took into consideration its price point and any sleep trials on offer before giving it a score out of five.

As Ideal Home's Sleep Editor, I've spent the last four years testing all kinds of pillows, and one of the key things I've learnt is that if you're an active sleeper – that means if, like me, you spend the night tossing and turning from your back, to your side, to your front during the night – this makes finding the right pillow difficult. Very difficult.

That's because the best pillow for a back sleeper is generally a medium-soft mid-height pillow, the best pillow for a side sleeper is a firm and high pillow, and the best pillow for a front sleeper is a super soft and super low pillow.

It's a lot of different requirements to combine into one pillow, which is why there are very few multi-position pillows on the market. Until now, that is. IKEA has just launched the new ISRANUNKEL Ergonomic Pillow, which promises to be exactly what I need; a multi-position pillow that caters to side, back, *and* front sleepers.

The brand says that the key to creating a pillow that can be used in all sleep positions is its butterfly shape that offers a mix of high and low sides. The highest edges lift the head in alignment with the spine when side sleeping, the lower edge on one side cradles the neck for back sleeping, and the alternative side is lower still for stomach sleeping.

The soft memory foam shape is also designed to be huggable, with the brand saying 'the shape allows you to wrap your arms around the pillow for extra comfort while sleeping or resting.' Sounds pretty nice to me!

Because it's so new, there aren't yet many reviews of the ISRANUNKEL online, but those customers who have snapped up this versatile pillow are fans.

'I found these pillows to be just right for me,' says one reviewer. 'I have two other memory foam pillows, the same standard shape as most, but these ergonomic ones are more comfortable, just the right softness, and the shape allows room for your shoulder.'

Another says, 'I've tried a few IKEA memory foam pillows and have found them all to be a little too stiff, making my ears hurt by the time I get up. This one is a softer memory foam (a single moulded piece, not crumb) but it's still very supportive.'

'The contoured shape is well thought out and is comfortable in multiple positions. No more aching ears. It could be a bit wider though, to fit better in standard 80cm wide pillow cases, but that's a minor niggle. Very highly recommended.'

However, a couple of reviewers are less impressed, which is understandable, as when it comes to how to choose a pillow, even with a multi-position pillow, one pillow doesn't always suit all.

'Am enjoying a good night's sleep (mainly on my back, which was the reason for purchasing this pillow),' says a third reviewer. 'However, the foam can get warm as the night progresses and can cause you to wake up.'

This is a common problem I've encountered with even the best memory foam pillows. This material is super cushioning and moulds into all sorts of useful shapes, but its density lacks breathability.

As a hot sleeper myself, I've found that if you want to avoid a hot head, the best filling for a pillow is feather and down. This type of pillow is far more breathable than memory foam, leading to a cool head all night long, and as long as the feather and down pillow is squishy enough, I find I can bunch it up to make a higher sleep surface for side sleeping and flatten it out into a lower sleep surface for back or side sleeping. Three of my favourites are below.

Shop alternatives

However, I'm intrigued to see what the IKEA ISRANUNKEL Ergonomic Pillow is like in person. It looks like a great option for those active sleepers who prefer a firmer sleep surface than feather and down can offer, and, at £35, it's a very reasonable price compared to most feather and down options on the market.

My Levitex Sleep Posture Pillow review tests this bestselling pillow to see how it compares to the best pillows on the market. If you're a side sleeper, you'll want to read on.

In a nutshell

Overall, I think the Levitex Sleep Posture Pillow is one of the best pillows for side sleepers on the market.

That's because a side sleeper needs a pillow that can fill the gap between their ear and the edge of their shoulder to support the head in a posture that allows for optimum spinal alignment whilst in bed.

Because all of us are built differently, with different widths of shoulders, that means one size pillow doesn't fit all, so finding a pillow as a side sleeper can be tricky.

The Levitex Sleep Posture Pillow is somewhat unique in that it recognises this problem, and is available in four different heights – 8, 10, 12, and 14cm. This means it's very easy to find the right height pillow for your individual needs.

Plus, this pillow is much firmer than most. Whilst that firmness took me a while to get used to, I soon realised the benefit because it meant my head stayed well supported throughout the night, rather than gradually sinking lower as the night wore on.

Just like its name suggests, after testing it for a month, this pillow has definitely improved my sleep posture and consequently improved my sleep. If you're a side sleeper, you should definitely test it out, and thanks to a 44-night sleep trial, that's easy to do. Your neck and back will thank you.

Levitex Sleep Posture Pillow review

Specifications

• Best for: side sleepers
• RRP: £80
• Heights available: 4
• Dimensions: W40 x L60 x H8/10/12/14cm
• Feel: firm
• Materials: cover: nylon, inner: foam
• Care instructions: the removable cover is machine-washable at 40°c, the foam core can't be washed
• Manufacturer sleep trial: 44 nights

Comfort

It should be said that before I began testing this pillow, I considered myself a front sleeper. It was a sleeping position I was eager to change, because in my role as Ideal Home's Sleep Editor, I've spoken to numerous sleep and medical experts who've warned me this is a bad position for your neck to be in all night. That makes sense, twisting your neck 90 degrees all night doesn't seem wise, and I often woke up with a neck ache.

However, despite everything I know about how to choose a pillow, I'd never managed to find a pillow that totally fit the bill for comfortable for side sleeping. The pillows I'd tested (and there have been a lot!) were always too high or too low, too hot or too hard for me, and after a few weeks I always ended up returning to my trusty super flat feather and down pillow, where I knew I could get a good night's sleep on my front. That was until I tested the Levitex Sleep Posture Pillow.

As I've already mentioned, this pillow is available in four heights, and a simple 'find your size' tool on the Levitex website guides you through finding the right fit for your body based on your height and the firmness of your mattress. At 5'9" with a medium tension mattress, I was advised to choose the 12cm deep Sleep Posture Pillow.

When the pillow arrived, I initially wasn't sure if it was a tiny bit too high because my mattress is perhaps a little softer than I accounted for when using Levitex's online tool. But when I tested it with a firm mattress topper (the IKEA NISSEHOLM topper for those interested) on the bed, I found the pillow was indeed exactly the right height to fit snugly between my ear and the mattress when I was lying on my side.

That said, to begin with I found the pillow a little strange to get used to. Levitex says that if the pillow is the right height for you, it should feel like you want to push your head into the pillow but can't, and this is exactly how it felt, which I found a bit of a strange sensation at first.

I also wasn't used to sleeping on a pillow that is this firm. It doesn't feel hard (like I found the Simba Hybrid Firm Pillow did, and which I, for one, was very glad about) but it does feel very dense and supportive, which was a big change from my previous soft and squishy feather and down pillow.

However, after a few nights' sleep, I completely understood why this firmness is necessary. I soon noticed it prevented my head from gradually sinking during the night as I'd found happened on the slightly softer Panda Memory Foam Bamboo Pillow and Panda Hybrid Bamboo Pillow, for instance, and it made for very stable support.

This meant the Sleep Posture Pillow kept my head, neck, and back well aligned and in its optimum posture all night long, rather than the filling gradually shifting or dropping. And *that* meant better sleep posture all night long and no aching neck or back in the morning.

This firmer feel also prevented me from slumping forward or back as my body relaxed. Although I did find I needed to adopt some other strategies to help keep my body in this position during the night. Levitex recommends hugging a pillow at your front to prevent your body from slumping forwards, which I found really helped, and I found wedging a pillow behind my back stopped me from tipping backwards. (Levitex has just launched a Side Sleeper Keeper that is also designed to help with this).

One of only two downsides I found, comfort-wise, was that this pillow is all about support, and that does mean it feels a little utilitarian. It isn't squishy or luxurious; instead, it's practical and has made a big positive impact on my sleep posture. I guess maybe you can't have it all, and seeing as it's still the first pillow I reach for at night, I think that says a lot.

The other downside is that if you're an active sleeper, like me, you can't really change position on this pillow. Once you've committed to buying the right height Levitex pillow for side or back sleeping, that's it, you're kind of restricted to that one sleeping position, as my pillow was too high for me to lie comfortably on my back.

This will be no problem if you're a dedicated side or back sleeper, but a little problematic if you'd prefer to be a side *and* back sleeper. In this case, the versatile Kally Sleep Neck Pain Pillow is still the best I've tested. Annoyingly, it's just only available in one height.

Temperature regulation

As a hot sleeper, I have to admit I was a little wary that this foam-core pillow was going to cause my head to get very hot overnight.

One of the reasons I loved my old feather and down pillow so much is that it always stayed cool and breathable, so I never woke up with a hot or sweaty head. Whereas whenever I've slept on a synthetic microfibre, hollowfibre, foam, or memory foam pillow, I've found the pillow gets warm after 15 minutes or so, and I have to flip it over to find a cooler side. This is part of the reason I'd decided that feather and down was the best pillow filling for me.

In practice, the Levitex Sleep Posture Pillow wasn't as cool as a feather and down pillow; I noticed it was slightly warm to the touch after 20 minutes with my head on it, but it also didn't cause me to overheat in anywhere near the same way a lot of foam and memory foam pillows have.

I think this is likely because the Sleep Posture Pillow is firmer, so my head stays on the pillow rather than sinking in. That means there's a lot less heat built up around and underneath my head during the night All in all, this pillow didn't do a bad job of maintaining a neutral temperature overnight.

Ease of care

The foam core of the Levitex Sleep Posture Pillow can't be washed, but the outer cover can be unzipped and popped in the washing machine at 40°C.

This is also a standard-sized pillow, which makes adding a pillow protector and a pillowcase much easier. Because of that foam core, there's also no plumping or redistribution of the filling required, so it's very easy to care for.

Sleep trial

Levitex recognises that a new pillow can take some getting used to, especially if, like the Sleep Posture Pillow, it causes us to alter our sleep posture slightly.

That's why the brand offers a generous 44-night sleep trial to test out the Sleep Posture Pillow and make sure it's the right fit for you. Levitex just recommends that we give the pillow a try for at least two weeks so our body has time to adapt to the new posture.

In practice, I think this is good advice. It definitely took around a week for me to adjust to my new sleeping position, and to concoct a solution to stop me from slumping either forwards or backwards in the night.

Value for money

This pillow isn't cheap by most of our standards; £80 is a significant investment. However, I've now tested plenty of pillows that are more expensive and deliver a lot less, as well as cheaper pillows that don't live up to the task, so I do think the Sleep Posture Pillow is well worth the investment.

Because it's available in those four height options, it's one of the few pillows I've come across where any side sleeper is going to be able to find their exact right height of support.

And if you have neck pain or back pain, or are struggling to get a good night's sleep on a pillow that's the wrong height for you, that better night's sleep can be priceless.

Plus, the 44 night sleep trial makes that investment a lot less risky. It gives the opportunity to test out the pillow in practice and make sure it really does deliver for you before you commit. If you're a side sleeper, I definitely think this is a pillow well worth testing out.

Each of us has our own unique sleeping style, whether that’s face-planting the pillow, becoming a human starfish with arms and legs spread-eagled, or curling up into protective ball.

However, sleep experts say there’s one sleeping position that has less to do with individual comfort preferences and has more to do with us not having found the best pillow for our sleep needs; that’s whether we sleep with our arm under our pillow at night.

Why? I asked a range of sleep and posture experts to explain.

Why do I sleep with my arm under my pillow?

‘If you’re a side sleeper, you may find that you unconsciously slide your arm under your pillow for a good night’s sleep,’ says Sammy Margo, sleep expert at Dreams. ‘While this can be beneficial for extra head and neck support, it does call into question why your pillow isn’t giving you that support in the first place.’

‘Sleeping with your arm under your pillow is really common,’ continues James Leinhardt, sleep posture expert, and founder of Levitex. ‘People tend to do it if their pillow isn’t supporting their heads.'

'Our heads weigh four to six kilos, and if the pillow is not doing the job, you'll subconsciously use your arm instead to support your head because your neck is in need of some real support.’

'In terms of posture, some adopt this position to support their head, especially if their pillow is too low or flat,’ agrees sleep expert, registered osteopath, and founder of The Sleep Site, Dave Gibson.

As I write this I’ve just got back from a weekend away where the bed I slept in came with two very flat and low pillows.

I normally sleep on my side on a fairly high pillow, and just like our experts say, on the lower pillows I found myself instantly sliding my arm under the pillow to lift my head up, something I never find myself doing at home.

Personally, I didn’t find this sleeping position that comfortable and was very eager to get back to my own bed for a better night’s sleep, but is adopting this sleep position and using your arm for support actually bad for you?

Is it bad to sleep with my arm under my pillow?

'Is it bad to sleep with your arm under your pillow? If you wake up with a dead arm, a dead hand, pins and needles, or shoulder pain, you might be able to answer this yourself,’ says James Leinhardt.

'Sleeping with your arm under the pillow isn't just likely to give you a bad night's sleep… you're causing issues and restricting circulation in your arm.'

'Sleeping with an arm under your pillow may make your arm feel tingly or numb, due to the added pressure on it,' agrees Sammy Margo. 'That said, sleeping with your arm under your pillow can have its benefits.'

'It may help to reduce tension in the shoulders and neck, and keep the spine in midline alignment to reduce neck and back pain.'

'Sleeping with your arm under your pillow isn't necessarily harmful, but it can potentially cause problems,’ confirms physiotherapist Nell Mead.

'Having your arm under your pillow might bring your shoulder up towards your ear, and that in turn may put pressure on the brachial plexus, which forms the nerves that go down your arm. This might lead to temporary numbness, tingling, or the feeling of your arm falling asleep.'

'Over time, keeping your shoulder in an elevated or rotated position might contribute to shoulder pain or stiffness, particularly if you already have shoulder issues,' Nell continues.

'Although it might feel comfortable initially, lying with your arm under your pillow can sometimes also lead to poor neck alignment, potentially contributing to neck pain or stiffness when you wake up.'

However, if this sounds like your sleeping experience, then don’t worry. There’s a simple solution, and that’s finding a more supportive pillow.

The solution

'Try instead to use a pillow that supports your head and neck properly, thereby eliminating the need to use your arm for support,' advises osteopath Dave Gibson. 'You could experiment with different pillow heights and firmness levels to find what works best for you.'

Based on my testing for Ideal Home's guide to the best pillow for side sleepers, this means finding a pillow that fits the gap between our ear and the mattress so that our head and neck are supported at the same angle they would be if we were standing upright.

We want to avoid a pillow that's too low, or our head will dip down, putting strain on the neck (and leading to us slipping that arm under the pillow to lift the head). However, we also don't want a pillow that's too high and causes the neck to bend upwards in the other direction.

It's also important to find a pillow that's a little denser. Like one of the best memory foam pillows to offer better support.

'Many people mistake soft pillows for being the most comfortable choice,' explains James Leinhardt.

'But if your pillow isn’t firm enough to support you properly, you’ll end up relying on other surfaces, like your arm, for extra support. Your body is literally telling you to get a new pillow – that’s why you’re using your arm.'

Shop more supportive pillows

'The best pillows for side sleepers should neither be too high or too low to ensure the spine remains properly in the midline and protected,' agrees Sammy Margo. 'A more supportive pillow lessens the need to use your arm for extra support.'

So a different pillow could mean that you can eliminate any nighttime pins and needles and 'dead arms' you might be suffering from. However, if you're happy with your arm underneath the pillow and you find it comfortable, there's not necessarily any need to change it.

'Ultimately, there's no real right or wrong way for everyone to sleep,' says Nell Mead. 'Everyone's body is different, so the best sleeping position is whatever allows you to get restful sleep while minimising pain or discomfort when you wake up.'

We’ve probably all been there. It’s laundry day and you’re stripping your bed to put your bedding in the washing machine when you realise your pillows are starting to look less box-fresh than they once did.

In fact, they’re starting to appear a little… yellow... which isn’t a good look. So begins the search for how to get rid of yellow stains on pillows.

But, what if I told you there was a simple way to prevent that yellowing from occurring in the first place *and* that Marks & Spencer has a solution that only costs £5.

Yep, a pillow protector is the answer to pillows staying white, and the M&S Collection 2pk Microfibre Pillow Protectors are one of the most affordable options I've come across. If you've just invested in the best pillows you can afford, I think spending an extra fiver to keep them in tip-top condition is well worth it.

Plus, it seems I'm not alone. M&S customers are raving about the quality and value of the M&S Collection 2pk Microfibre Pillow Protectors, with the budget-friendly buy currently scoring 4.8 out of 5 stars from reviewers.

One happy owner says, 'Very good value for the price l paid. I have bought quite a lot of these because the quality is very good'. Another reviewer says, 'Lovely quality. Good size. Nice quilting. Very good value.'

Another happy customer reports that they're 'amazed at the quality of these for the price; far exceeded my expectations'. Another writes, 'Wanted new pillow protectors and saw these for £5.00. They are excellent value. Really pleased with this purchase.'

In fact, the only possible downside I can find with this bargain buy is that these protectors are made from polyester, so for those of us who have invested in a pillow filled with natural fibres to prevent overheating, they may sleep warm. If you're a hot sleeper, these are my top alternatives.

Shop similar alternatives

Why does a pillow protector prevent yellowing? Because it offers an extra layer of defence beyond just your pillowcase.

'Yellow stains on pillows can be caused by various factors,' explains household cleaning expert Petya Holevich of Fantastic Services. 'Some of the most common reasons are sweat and natural body oils produced by your skin, saliva from drooling during sleep, going to bed with wet hair, and makeup and skincare products.'

As someone who regularly used to go to bed with damp hair during my younger years I can confirm this is a surefire way to end up with pillow yellowing. A pillowcase just isn't enough defence to prevent those stains from occurring.

‘Yellow stains on pillows are typically caused by a combination of factors, including natural body oils and sweat that accumulate over time,’ confirms Baqir Khan, cleaning expert and owner of Proactive Cleaners. ‘These substances can seep into the fabric of the pillowcase and pillow, creating unsightly discolouration.'

Knowing how to wash a pillow, as well as how often to wash a pillow, can help. But as the old saying goes, 'prevention is better than cure', meaning it's far easier to prevent stains from occurring in the first place than it is to fix them after they've happened.

'To prevent your pillows from staining... use pillow protectors,' advises cleaning expert Petya. That's because they 'act as a barrier preventing stains from forming and spreading.'

A pillow protector is also far easier to wash and dry than the pillow itself, as you'll know if you've been wondering if you can wash feather pillows or pondering how to clean one of the best memory foam pillows.

So, are you convinced to add the £5 M&S Collection 2pk Microfibre Pillow Protectors to your bed? Or have you already been employing this stain-prevention trick?

Aldi has just launched a lavender-infused aromatherapy pillow that’s designed to offer a calmer and more restful night’s sleep. Even better, the Silentnight Wellbeing Lavender Scented Pillow is being sold in-store for just £12.99, that’s half its usual retail price.

Investing in one of the best pillows on the market is a sure-fire way to sleep better at night, and as this pillow is infused with lavender – a natural scent that aromatherapy experts say relieves stress, lowers our heart rate, and allows us to drift off more easily into a deeper rest – as a Sleep Editor, I think it’s definitely worth having on your radar.

Why is lavender such a powerful sleep aid? ‘Scent is deeply connected to our nervous system,’ says Hayley Dawes, founder of Dreem Distillery, ‘and inhaling certain plant compounds, like lavender, can help reduce stress, anxiety, lower heart rate and create a more restful environment.’

‘Lavender has long been utilised in aromatherapy to promote relaxation,’ agrees Lee Howes, fragrance category lead at Lush. ‘The essential oil has a high linalool content, and there’s research to suggest inhaling the aroma of linalool has a positive impact on the receptors in our brains that facilitate a more peaceful and rested state. In turn, this creates the right framework to encourage an easier passage to sleep.’

Of course, when it comes to how to choose a pillow, there's more to it than simply opting for one with an infusion of sleep-inducing lavender. That's because the best pillow for a side sleeper will be very different in shape and support to the kind of pillow a back or front sleeper needs.

The good news is that there are plenty of ways to benefit from the relaxing powers of lavender without opting for a dedicated aromatherapy pillow. Instead, you could find the right pillow for your support needs, and then introduce the calming effects of lavender into your bedroom in other ways.

'A light mist of diluted lavender essential oil (2-3 sprays) can create a calming environment without being overpowering,' shares perfumer, scent designer, and founder of HUMOS, Gabriel De Carvalho.

'Many of us suffer from waking in the night, especially as we get older, but research has shown that inhaling lavender when sleeping increases our slow-wave sleep... when you spray lavender in the bedroom, especially on the pillow, you increase your chance of inhaling it,' agrees Jacqui Taylor founder of Taylor's CBD.

'Running a diffuser with lavender oil for around 30 minutes before bedtime can also enhance relaxation,' says Gabriel, or, 'when diluted with a carrier oil, applying lavender oil to pulse points (such as the wrists or neck) may also promote a sense of calm before sleep.'

Alternatives

However, you choose to bring the scent of lavender into your bedroom, whether that's via the Silentnight Wellbeing Lavender Scented Pillow or one of our other suggestions, it's clear this natural sleep aid has a lot to teach us about how to sleep better.

‘Several studies have shown that inhaling lavender essential oil before bed is linked to longer sleep duration, improved sleep efficiency, and reduced symptoms of insomnia,’ confirms Gabriel De Carvalho, ‘particularly in those with mild sleep disturbances or anxiety-related sleep disorders.’

One recent scientific study ‘indicated that lavender increases slow-wave sleep – the deep sleep stage essential for physical recovery and memory consolidation,’ another found that inhaling lavender leads to 'calming and sedative effects’.

‘Lavender has also been found to lower cortisol levels (the body's primary stress hormone), which can contribute to better sleep,’ continues Carvalho.

And yet further research demonstrates that ‘lavender inhalation has been associated with a reduction in heart rate, blood pressure, and respiratory rate, which all contribute to a relaxed state conducive to sleep. Lavender oil inhalation lowered sympathetic nervous system activity – the system responsible for the “fight-or-flight” response – helping the body transition into a restful state.’

Personally, I'm convinced. How about you? Are you going to try incorporating lavender into your bedtime routine?

If you didn’t sleep well last night, it may be because you’re making this simple mistake when it comes to how you’re sleeping on your pillow.

It may sound absurd but it turns out that many of us don’t know how to sleep on a pillow the right way, and this can lead to discomfort and neck pain, restless sleep and wasted money. After all, it’s impossible to find the best pillow for our sleep needs if we don’t know how we should be using a pillow in the first place.

As Ideal Home’s Sleep Editor one of the most common questions I come across is ‘should your shoulders be on your pillow when you sleep?’, and there’s a definitive answer.

I asked a registered osteopath, a sleep science expert, and multiple sleep experts to explain all.

Should your shoulders be on your pillow when you sleep?

So, should your shoulders be on your pillow when you sleep? 'Absolutely not,’ says Hannah Shore, head of Sleep Science at Mattress Online. ‘Your pillow should provide support for your neck and your head in order to keep your head in the right position for correct spinal alignment. Your mattress should be supporting the rest of your body.’

‘No, your shoulders should not be on your pillow,’ confirms James Leinhardt, sleep posture expert and founder of sleep brand Levitex. ‘Instead, let your pillow support only your head and neck while keeping your shoulders relaxed on the mattress.’

Emily and Jonathan Attwood, founders of bedding manufacturer scooms agree. ‘Your shoulders shouldn't rest on the pillow as this can cause misalignment and place unnecessary strain on the neck. Instead, your pillow should support your head and neck, whilst allowing your shoulders to rest comfortably on the mattress. This sleeping position will ensure a natural spinal alignment, reducing the risk of waking up with stiffness or pain.’

The answer seems to be unanimous; sleeping with your shoulders on the pillow is a big no-no. So why have so many of us developed this unhealthy way of sleeping?

‘It is a common misconception, due to TV and films, that you should lay with your shoulders on your pillow,’ explains sleep expert James Wilson, aka The Sleep Geek. ‘However, this isn’t the case. It's recommended to keep your shoulders off the pillow as having them on the pillow can cause spinal misalignment and result in neck pain.’

That said, registered osteopath, sleep expert, and founder of The Sleep Site Dave Gibson does point out there can be one exception to this rule. ‘The short answer is no, you shouldn’t sleep with your shoulders on the pillow,’ says Dave, ‘unless you are trying to raise your upper body, neck, and head for medical reasons such as to combat heartburn or reflux at night.’

‘If you find that you need a pillow under your shoulders to feel comfortable while trying to sleep, it may indicate that your mattress is not providing adequate support and may need to be replaced,’ sleep expert Dave Gibson goes on to reveal.

When it comes to how often you should change your mattress, experts advise roughly every seven years. So if your mattress is reaching the end of its lifespan, it may be time to bite the bullet and invest in a new one. Ideal Home's guide to the best mattresses on the market can help you find a sleep surface that offers better support.

Should your neck be on your pillow?

Our experts are clear that shoulders do not belong on pillows, but how about if you're wondering, 'should your neck be on your pillow?'. This query also got a unanimous response from our sleep experts.

‘Yes!’ says sleep scientist Hannah Shore. ‘Your neck should be in contact with your pillow as your neck will need support throughout the night.’

'Yes, your pillow’s job is to support your head and neck in a neutral position,’ agrees sleep expert James Wilson.

‘The main purpose of using a pillow is to support your head and upper neck,’ confirms osteopath Dave Gibson. The idea being ‘to keep the whole of your spine in a neutral alignment from your neck down to your lower back. This alignment is crucial for reducing strain on the neck muscles and ensuring comfortable sleep.’

‘Absolutely,’ concludes sleep posture expert James Leinhardt. ‘Your neck should always be on your pillow. A good pillow's main job is to support your head and keep your neck aligned with the mattress. Think of your pillow as a way to give your neck a break by keeping it properly supported while you sleep.’

So there we go, two questions answered once and for all; don't sleep with your shoulders on your pillow, but do make sure your neck is resting on it for the best support.

Of course, finding a pillow that supports your neck is all about choosing a pillow to match your sleeping position. Our guide to how to choose the right pillow has the full detail, but it's important to remember that the best pillow for a side sleeper won't be the same as the best pillow for a back sleeper.

'For back sleepers, a medium thick pillow can help keep the neck aligned with the rest of the spine,' explains osteopath Dave. 'Side sleepers typically need a thicker pillow to fill the space between the neck and the mattress, ensuring the spine stays straight.'

'If you prefer to lie face down, you will need either a very thin pillow under your head or no pillow at all to achieve the most comfortable position. That said I would recommend that if you are a stomach sleeper you change the position to either side-lying or back-lying which are far better for spinal alignment and preventing potential neck strain from stomach sleeping.'

Sleep posture expert James agrees. 'I’d recommend picking one of two optimised positions to go to sleep in that will help you make sure you're keeping your neck in the right position on your pillow. Everyone is different with what they find comfortable, but the two best positions you can sleep in are what I call 'The Dreamer' or 'The Soldier'.'

'The Dreamer is when you lie in the semi-foetal position with your knees bent. This is well evidenced to put the least amount of tension through your spine whilst you sleep. If you can sleep with a pillow in between your knees and ankles, that’s even better, because this position is more neutral and supportive, and you are less likely to wake up in pain.'

'The Soldier involves sleeping on your back with a pillow under your knees, ensuring your spine stays in a neutral position, which can reduce morning aches, and fatigue and improve overall sleep quality. If you find it hard to sleep on your side, this one is for you. Think of a good standing posture – this one the same, just on your bed.'

So, have our experts convinced you to change the way you're using your pillow? Let me know in the comments!

My Kally Sleep Neck Pain Pillow review puts this ergonomic butterfly-shaped pillow through its paces to see if it can deliver a great night's sleep.

After testing it for over a year (and loaning it to my Mum for a second opinion), I think it's one of the best pillows you can buy if you're a side or back sleeper who suffers from neck pain, it's also a great option to prevent neck pain in the first place. Here's why.

In a nutshell

Although I initially thought this pillow was going to be far too firm for me, all in all, this is one of the best pillows I've slept on.

Normally I would say I prefer a softer pillow, but the Kally Sleep Neck Pain Pillow's clever design means it does exactly what a pillow should do – supports my head and neck in alignment with my spine – and its firm feel is vital to it doing that well.

What's more, it supports the neck in both a side sleeping position and a back sleeping position, without compromising any support in either posture – something I've so far failed to find any other pillow offers.

When I pulled a muscle in my neck, this was the pillow I reached for for nighttime pain relief, and it's also become the pillow I sleep on every night to prevent neck pain in the first place.

Plus, an RRP of £49.99 means it isn't extravagantly pricey, and if you buy direct from Kally Sleep there's a 14-night sleep trial that allows you to test whether its firm support is right for you before you commit.

All in all, I think this pillow is a great investment. It certainly improved my sleep posture which made for less neck pain and a better night's sleep.

Kally Sleep Neck Pain Pillow review

• Best for: side sleepers, back sleepers
• RRP: £49.99
• Support: firm
• Height: medium
• Materials: cover: polyester, inner: memory foam
• Dimensions: 56 x 34 x 11cm
• Care instructions: the removable cover is machine-washable at 40°c, the memory foam core can't be washed

Comfort

When I first unpacked the Kally Sleep Neck Pain Pillow, I thought it would be far too firm for me. I usually sleep on a soft, squishy feather and down pillow, and this Kally Sleep pillow couldn't be more different.

Unlike other memory foam pillows I've tested, like the Panda Memory Foam Pillow and Tempur Original SmartCool Pillow, the Kally Sleep Neck Pain Pillow is far firmer. Although it does have a little squish when compressed, when I rested my head on the pillow, my head barely sank in.

But as I soon discovered, this is the Kally Sleep pillow's secret formula for neck pain relief.

Designed for back and side sleepers – so perfect for an active sleeper like me who changes position a lot in the night – from the first night I slept on it I found the Kally Sleep pillow's firmer feel offered great support for my head and neck.

This is important because a good pillow should support our head so that our neck is as well-aligned with our spine as possible. We each need a pillow that doesn't create any kinks in our neck, either by lifting our head too high or allowing it to drop too low.

The Kally Sleep pillow's firmness and ergonomic design mean it supported my head in nearly perfect alignment with my spine. And even better, its clever butterfly-shaped design means it does this whether I'm laid on my front or my back.

The midsection of the pillow is lower to support the entire neck whilst back-sleeping, and both sides are raised to lift the head and support the neck whilst laid on either your left or right side.

I found this offered me just the right support whilst I slept. However, this will depend on your body frame, as the one downside of the Kally Sleep pillow is that it's only available in one height.

I'm around 5'9" so have fairly wide shoulders. My mum who is around 5'4" and has narrower shoulders also found it very comfortable to sleep on, but if you have a larger frame you may find the pillow height a little too low for side sleeping. The good news is that a 14-day sleep trial can take the guesswork out of figuring out if it suits you, but more on that later.

Thanks to a pulled muscle in my neck, I also got to test out this pillow when I actually had neck pain, and this is when its firm support really came into its own.

Whereas any other pillow I tried would send my neck into spasm when my head slowly sank down into the pillow during the night and my neck muscles had to take on some of the work of supporting my head, because the Kally Sleep pillow is so firm, my head was always supported without my neck having to do any of the work. I soon discovered this is the key to neck pain relief.

Temperature regulation

The Kally Sleep pillow has a memory foam core, so I was initially a bit worried I would find it slept very warm as memory foam doesn't have much breathability.

However, I was pleasantly surprised. Although I'm a hot sleeper, I never woke up feeling that my head was too warm.

Possibly the pillow's quilted and woven outer cover helps as it will allow for a little breathability between the head and the memory foam. Either way, this pillow didn't cause me to overheat and its temperature regulation was good, so another mark in its favour.

Ease of care

It definitely isn't a dealbreaker considering the pain-free sleep it offers, but I have found that it's hard to find a pillowcase to fit this pillow. A standard-sized pillow is on average W50cm x L75cm and the Kally Sleep Neck Pain Pillow is only W34 x L56cm, so it's substantially smaller than your average pillowcase.

This isn't necessarily a problem, as the pillow comes with a well-fitting removable cover that can be unzipped, removed, and machine-washed at 40°c. However, I found this outer cover bobbled quite quickly, plus, I like my pillowcases to match the rest of my bedding.

The pillow being on the smaller side has never affected my sleep in any way – it's plenty large enough once under my head. But its small stature does mean it gets drowned in a pillowcase, and it looks a bit lost and sorry for itself on the bed.

Because the pillow has a memory foam core, you also can't wash the pillow filling. However, again, this isn't really a deal breaker considering you can wash the quilted pillow outer.

Sleep trial

Figuring out how to choose the right pillow can be difficult, because our usual sleeping position, body size, and how much we sink into our mattress all affect which pillow is the best fit for us.

You may already be familiar with a mattress sleep trial, but the good news is many brands are now also offering sleep trials on pillows. This allows you to buy the pillow, sleep on it for a set number of nights, and return it if you find it isn't the one for you.

Terms and conditions apply, but if you buy the Neck Pain Pillow directly from the Kally Sleep website the brand offers a 14-night sleep trial to test out if the pillow helps your sleeping posture. I found this was plenty of time to discover that, yes, it certainly did help me to sleep more comfortably.

Value for money

Whilst its £49.99 price point may not be cheap, you can spend an awful lot more on a pillow, and considering how well the Kally Sleep Neck Pain Pillow transformed my sleep comfort, I think it's worth every penny.

The brand also offers regular discounts, with this pillow often on sale with up to 20% off over on the Kally Sleep website.

All in all, I think it's well worth spending just under £50 to see if this pillow increases your nighttime comfort, especially if you take advantage of that 14-night sleep trial when you do. After all, most experts say a pillow will last you two years, so that's equivalent to investing roughly 6 pence per night for a better night's sleep.

When it comes to getting a good night’s sleep there are several variables that can have a big impact. Yes, the mattress but also the pillow you’re sleeping on can dramatically affect the quality of your sleep. Memory foam and feather-filled pillows are two of the most popular pillow choices out there. But they’re very different.

You want the best pillows you can afford. As a sleep product reviewer, I know pillows inside out (literally) and am here to break down what both types of pillows actually are, why people love them so much and what you might want to watch out for.

I’ve also chatted with some pillow experts about their opinions on feather and memory foam pillows. Both are solid options, but one or the other is probably a better fit for you. Read on to find out why.

What is a feather and down pillow?

Feather and down pillows are pillows that are filled with feathers – more often than not from ducks or geese – and down, which is the fluffier underlayer between feathers.

‘Feather provides structure and support, while down adds loft and softness, making these pillows a luxurious and fluffy choice,’ explains Laurie Goldsmith, director at Rem-FIT. This is because feathers have quills – the hard bit in the middle of the feather. While down, found between the layers of feathers, is designed to lock warmth in, and feels super cosy.

‘This sought-after blend leads to pillows that are both plush and supportive, resulting in a sleep experience that feels light and cloud-like, whilst maintaining shape,’ says Emily and Jonathan Attwood, Founders at scooms. ‘Every brand varies in their feather to down ratio, but higher down content will result in a softer, more premium feel.’

What are the advantages of a feather and down pillow

Warmth

The down in feather and down pillows are engineered by nature to be as warm as possible. Down is made of soft, fluffy filaments that trap warm air in tiny pockets. When your body gives off heat, this gently warms the air pockets and makes a barrier from cold air. This makes it one of the best pillow fillings for warmth.

Soft yet supportive

But down isn’t just there for warmth, it’s also there to make your pillow feel soft as you lay on it all night long.

‘The down content makes these pillows incredibly soft and comfortable, giving a cloud-like sleeping experience,’ says Laurie from Rem-Fit.

‘One of the biggest advantages of feather and down pillows are the incredible softness they bring and the ability they have to mould to your head and neck,’ says Jonathan and Emily from scooms. ‘Whether you have a Soft-Medium or Medium-Firm option, these pillows will contour to the shape of your head and neck, ensuring the position is tailored to you.’

There is a boost of support from the harder feathers though. ‘The quilled feathers give shape and structure,’ points out Feather & Black.

Breathable

One of the key reasons why feather and down makes such a great pillow (and duvet) filling is because they’re so breathable. ‘Being made of natural materials, they also are highly breathable, promoting airflow and keeping you cool as you sleep throughout the night,’ says Emily and Jonathan from scooms.

As temperature affects everyone's sleep so dramatically, regulating body temperature is always the aim of bedding. Feather and down-fill pillows should therefore help you get a good night’s sleep.

Lightweight

As Tommy-Joe Reardon, head of Marketing at Panda London points out, feather and down pillows are ‘also extremely lightweight and flexible which can make them easier for travelling.’

As well as travelling well, you can squish and squeeze them to get the right shape for you. ‘Compared to other pillow types, these are lighter and easy to adjust throughout the night,’ says Feather & Black. If you love that soft feeling - especially good for back and stomach sleepers - feather and down pillows are ideal.

Durable

Feather and down should put in the hard yards for you, and are some of the longest lasting pillow fills available. They ‘are highly durable if maintained properly, and have the ability to be fluffed back to their original loft even after extended use,’ says Emily and Jonathan from scooms.

What are the disadvantages of a feather and down pillow?

Can go flat

Ever noticed your previously fluffy pillow has turned into a bit of a pancake? This is the destiny of many feather and down pillows. ‘The lower quality feather and down pillows can lose their loft over time,’ explains Emily and Jonathan from scooms.

This is caused by compression over time, mixed with the moisture from your head (sorry, not easy to make this sound appealing) that gets trapped in the feathers. This then causes the fillings to go a bit clumpy and flat.

Quills poke through

‘If not encased in a high-quality cover, the quills from the feathers can poke through and cause discomfort,’ says Laurie from Rem-Fit. This can be very annoying - particularly on your face when you’re sleeping.

Can trigger allergies

This is a big drawback for feather and down pillows - they’re not great for allergy sufferers. ‘Some individuals are sensitive to natural feathers and down,’ warns Laurie from Rem-Fit.

This is because feather and down trap in moisture, which create a warm, humid environment that dust mites love. And as dust mites are the leading cause of house-born allergies in the UK, you don’t want them taking up residence in your pillow.

However ‘regular care and washing and higher quality options with No-Mite certification will make them suitable for dust mite allergy sufferers too,’ say Jonathan and Emily from scooms.

Bit high maintenance

Feather and down, for all their brilliance, are the high-maintenance diva option in the pillow world. ‘They need regular fluffing and occasional professional cleaning to maintain their shape and hygiene,’ warns Laurie from Rem-Fit.

Regular fluffing will help prevent the clumping mentioned above though, and help keep the pillows at their best for longer. You fluff the pillows by hand shaking them, pressing and kneading the pillows or you could put them in a tumble drier on a low heat with a tennis ball to help break up clumps.

What is a memory foam pillow?

A memory foam pillow is one that has a foam filling. It’s ‘a pillow that has an inner core made of memory foam – a high density, man-made foam that reacts to both heat and pressure to contour or mould to body shapes,’ specifies Tommy-Joe Reardon from Panda London.

These are much more dense than feather and down pillows, with a firmer feel.

What are the advantages of a memory foam pillow?

Supportive

Many people love the best memory foam pillows because they offer a really high level of support. Side sleepers especially will appreciate this. ‘The foam adapts to your head and neck, promoting spinal alignment and reducing pressure points,’ says Laurie from Rem-Fit.

‘Unlike down which can shift with movement, memory foam retains its shape, offering a consistent, more structured support throughout the night,’ explains Emily and Jonathan from scooms. ‘This can make them a preferred choice for those who need spinal alignment and pressure relief, as the foam evenly distributes weight, helping to reduce neck and shoulder strain.’

‘This means fewer aches and pains when you wake up,’ points out Tommy-Joe from Panda London.

Hypoallergenic

Memory foam is brilliant for allergy sufferers. It ‘tends to be hypoallergenic due to its tightly packed structure, meaning dust mites and other allergens can’t get in,’ says Tommy-Joe from Panda London.

Easy to care for

Memory foam lasts for ages and ages, and you don’t have to do much to memory foam pillows to keep them at their best. ‘These pillows tend to retain their loft height over time to provide long-lasting support and comfort,’ says Tommy-Joe from Panda London. This is a big tick in their favour as ‘unlike down pillows that require frequent fluffing,’ adds Laurie from Rem-Fit.

What are the disadvantages of a memory foam pillow?

Can be quite warm to sleep on

Memory foam has quite a bad reputation for overheating when you sleep on it. ‘Traditional memory foam tends to trap heat, which can be uncomfortable for hot sleepers (though gel-infused and ventilated options help mitigate this),’ says Laurie from Rem-Fit.

‘It’s important to look for a pillow with a thermoregulating cover material, like bamboo,’ adds Tommy-Joe from Panda London.

Off-gassing might be a concern

Memory foam pillows can ‘emit slight chemical odours, known as off-gassing, which can take a few days to dissipate,’ says Emily and Jonathan from scooms.

As with mattress off gassing, you have to decide how you feel on this based on your own situation.

Is a feather or memory foam pillow better?

This is really something that comes down to individual preference, including how much you overheat when you sleep, any allergies you might have and your sleeping position.

Memory foam is great if you want something solid, dependable and that doesn’t require much TLC. However, if you want something fluffier and more like a five-star hotel pillow [include link to my piece one live] then a feather and down in going to be better suited to you.

FAQs

Is down or memory foam better for side sleepers?

As a committed side sleeper myself, my vote firmly goes to memory foam. The stable support keeps my neck elevated and I wake up pain free.

‘Side sleepers need extra support to keep their head and spine aligned,’ explains Laurie from Rem-Fit. ‘A high-loft memory foam pillow helps prevent the head from sinking too low, ensuring proper alignment.’

Is down or memory foam better for back sleepers?

Back sleepers require a lower-loft pillow to prevent their neck being at an awkward angle.

‘Back sleepers can benefit from both types, but it's down to personal preference on whether you prioritise natural materials or not,’ say Emily and Jonathan from scooms. ‘A medium-loft down pillow can cradle the head while allowing slight sinkage, which many find comfortable. Memory foam, on the other hand, provides more consistent neck support, making it a better choice for those who struggle with neck pain or spinal alignment issues.’

Is down or memory foam better for stomach sleepers?

Along with the best mattress for stomach sleepers, it’s important stomach sleepers consider their pillow carefully. If you sleep on your stomach you either want no pillow or a very low-loft option.

‘A softer feather and down pillow is the clear winner as they benefit from a thin, compressible pillow to prevent the neck from being forced into an awkward angle - memory foam tends to be too firm for this sleep position,’ advises Emily and Jonathan from scooms.

Have you ever noticed you sleep better at a hotel? You’re not alone. According to one survey by Hotels.com, an incredible 73% of respondents reported sleeping better in a hotel room than at home.

This is probably down to a few factors – being able to switch off from daily stresses, a quieter room than at home and those sumptuous hotel pillows and duvets. While we can’t help with the daily stresses, we can offer a deep dive into why hotel pillows are so comfortable.

The best pillows should suit your sleeping position – stomach, side and back sleepers all prefer slightly different pillows – and filling preferences. And yet hotels are getting it right for everyone. What’s their secret recipe for creating comfortable pillows for all?

I spoke to several hotels and hotel chains about their pillows to find out their inside intel. And along with that I applied my pillow expertise – garnered from working as a sleep-product reviewer and sleep writer for the last four years.

What kinds of pillows do hotels use?

It’s probably obvious, but different hotels use different pillows. Many hotels – especially on the more luxury end of the scale – offer more than one different type of pillow. So you’re getting a different pillow experience wherever you stay. But obviously hotels carefully select their pillows whatever the budget.

Premier Inn makes its own pillows – and it sells them too. The pillows contain hollowfibre fibres, which makes them easy to wash and hypoallergenic. ‘Our pillows are made from 100% hollow fibre Polyester. We use a very fine denier of fibre (3 denier) that provides a super soft and silky feel,’ says Sarah Simpson, Head of Product Development for Premier Inn.

They’re also on the more affordable end of the scale, retailing at £36 for a pair.

Soho House is another big hotel brand that makes and sells the pillows it has in its rooms. Soho House pillows are made from prized goose down. We’ll get into why goose down is such a good fill in a moment.

The Grove in Hertfordshire is a luxury five-star hotel and purports to be one of the UK’s most exciting staycation destinations. ‘All the pillows at The Grove are a mixture of European Feather and Goose down with a mixture of medium (70% Goose/30 % Feather) and firm (85% Goose/15% Feather),’ says Joanna Patek, Executive Housekeeper at The Grove. ‘Tielle by Trade linen is the product of choice.’

Meanwhile, SIRO One Za’abeel in Dubai – a hotel designed for those with an active lifestyle – offers an extensive pillow menu. ‘There are 11 tailored options, including meditation pillows,’ says Jamie Moore, Director of Fitness at SIRO One Za’abeel. These include premium down feathers, ergonomic neck pillows, buckwheat pillows, pregnancy pillows and even a cool-down anti-allergy pillow.

Why are these hotel pillows so comfortable?

1. Temperature regulating

Many hotels opt for a temperature-regulating fill in their pillows, such as goose down and feather. Goose down and feather are often thought of as the gold standard of pillow and duvet fills. And one of the key reasons for this lofty status is because duck and goose feathers and down are really good at keeping air circulating around you, stopping you from overheating. After all, one of the key ways to get better sleep is to maintain a steady body temperature all night long.

With Premier Inn’s particular hollow fibre option, they’ve gone for a synthetic fibre that’s as breathable as possible. ‘Both the fineness and spring back of our fibres provide an airy feel and improved breathability that prevents heat build up and ensures a cool, refreshing sleep,’ says Sarah Simpson from Premier Inn.

2. Soft

Another reason why duck and goose feather and down is such a fantastic filling – and why hotels opt for it over other pillow fillings – is it’s soft. The structure of feathers and down is so light and fluffy, it has a luxurious feel that gives your head that gentle, reassuring sinking feeling as you settle into bed. As the mould around your head and neck, this gives support while you sleep – preventing any aches or pains in the morning. Or that’s the theory…

Hollow fibre, as favoured by Premier Inn, is also soft and springy. The density of their hollow-fibre pillows will offer ‘gentle, cushioned support that moulds to the contours of the head and neck,’ says Sarah Simpson from Premier Inn.

3. Durable

Despite being very different fibres, both feather and down, and the hollow fibres used by Premier Inn, are long-lasting fibres. This means they’re going to feel fluffy and sumptuous even after being slept on night after night.

4. Hypoallergenic

For those with allergies, the hollow-fibre pillows are going to be brilliant for you. This means they’re a versatile option in hotels. This is because hollow fibre resists dust mites – the number one cause of house-born allergies in the UK.

Unfortunately duck and goose feather/down are not great for allergy sufferers – but many hotels that do have down pillows, including The Grove and SIRO One Za’abeel – offer hypoallergenic pillow alternatives to allergy sufferers.

How do hotels keep pillows fluffy and soft?

As you can probably imagine, good hotels utilise a fleet of staff (depending on the size of the hotel) to ensure all bedding is in tip-top condition. Every hotel I spoke to relies on cyclical checking of pillows to make sure they’re fresh and fluffy.

‘All of our pillows have a quilted cotton-polyester protectors that keep our pillows extra fresh,’ says Sarah Simpson at Premier Inn. ‘Our teams also regularly check the pillows in each room and replace as needed.’

‘To ensure pillows keep their “plumpness” just as a duck would “shake” itself to puff out their feathers, we within the Housekeeping department ensure that the pillows are plumped daily to keep the “fluffiness” and consistent standard required at The Grove,’ says Joanna Patek from The Grove. ‘Regular washing programmes are planned to maintain the quality of the pillows too.’

What are the best hotel-quality pillows to buy at home?

If you’re looking for hotel-quality pillows at home, our sleep editor Amy Lockwood has tested more than 50 pillows to find the best ones. On her shortlist of the best is the Dorma Hungarian Goose Down Soft Pillow and the scooms Hungarian Goose Down Pillow. Both these have down filling, similar to that favoured at The Grove.

Also on the list of recommended pillows is the Kally Sleep Neck Pain Pillow – similar to SIRO One Za’abeel’s ergonomic neck pillow.

Do hotels use king or queen pillows?

The size of the pillow varies from hotel to hotel between standard, king and queen sizes. The individual hotels should have assessed the best for each bed. If you’re at home, a standard pillow is absolutely fine – and most convenient for getting matching bed linen. However, you might want to upgrade to a larger size if your bed is bigger than a king.

‘Our standard pillows are king-sized, while the rest of our pillow selection comes in a variety of shapes and sizes – including neck rolls and pregnancy pillows – designed for ultimate comfort and support,’ says Jamie Moore at SIRO One Za’abeel.

‘The sizing of our pillows are 50cm x 90 cm, which are a king size to support our wonderful King size beds,’ says Joanna Patek from The Grove.

Why do some hotels offer a pillow menu?

Some hotels offer pillow menus. This allows guests to choose a pillow to suit them. As I’ve mentioned, not everyone likes the same kind of pillow. Variations in sleeping position, allergies and more can all affect what pillow suits you. And hotels want to make sure you’re as comfy as possible, so offer a pillow menu.

Not all hotels offer a pillow menu, including Premier Inn: ‘We offer a choice of firm or soft pillows in all of our rooms,’ says Sarah Simpson from Premier Inn. While Joanna Patek at The Grove says, ‘We have Pregnancy V shape pillows and roll pillows available on request but not a full menu currently.’

However, as you might expect from a hotel that prizes itself on wellbeing facilities, SIRO One Za’abeel does offer a pillow menu. ‘Our rooms and suites feature a pillow menu option, which allows our guests to select a pillow suited to their personal comfort preferences, whether they need ergonomic support, cooling features or natural fillings for a customised sleep experience.’

Are there any upgrades you're considering to make your bed feel expensive and hotel-worthy, or have you already cracked the secret to a 5-star sleep?

My Emma Original Hybrid Pillow review puts the brand's 2-in-1 hybrid pillow through its paces to find out how it compares to the best pillows the Ideal Home team has tested.

In a nutshell

The Emma Original Hybrid Pillow attempts to do a lot. The brand says it's suitable for side, back, and front sleepers – something not many pillows attempt as each sleeping position requires a different height pillow. Emma also says the pillow offers both a firm and soft sleep surface.

Having tested the pillow in all three sleeping positions and flipped it over to experience the firmer and softer feel, I agree that its adjustable filling makes it very versatile.

However, I don't think it's the best pillow in any one of these categories. I've tested better pillows for side sleepers and better pillows for back sleepers, as well as firmer and softer options. So, although this pillow offers a lot, it perhaps tries to do a bit too much at once.

Emma Original Hybrid Pillow review

Specifications

• Best for: side, back, and front sleepers
• RRP: £55
• Support: medium-firm
• Height: medium
• Materials: outer: polyester and microfibre, inner: visco memory foam
• Dimensions: L70 x W50cm
• Washable: the removable cover is machine-washable at 40°c, the memory foam core can't be washed
• Manufacturer sleep trial: 30 nights

Comfort

When I first laid my head on the Emma Original Hybrid Pillow I thought I might have found my ideal pillow for side sleeping.

The Original Hybrid is an adjustable pillow that features a layer of removable memory foam sandwiched in between a cover that has a layer of microfibre on each side. With the memory foam inserted, this pillow was just the right height to fit neatly in between my shoulder and head when I was laid on my side.

This is subjective of course, because the trickiest part about how to choose a pillow is that we're all built differently. For reference, the distance from my neck to the edge of my shoulder is around 17cm, and I tested this pillow on a medium-firm mattress that my shoulder sinks into a little.

The two sides of the pillowcase both have different amounts of microfibre inside, making one feel more cushioned than the other, although this remains a medium-firm feeling pillow thanks to that memory foam core.

After testing both, I decided I preferred the softer side so got to work getting comfortable, and at this point I noticed four things.

One, I didn't really like the feel of the pillowcase. It's 100% polyester and has a strange suede-like texture. Obviously, this can be solved by popping the pillow into a pillowcase, but the pillow was a very tight fit to squeeze into any of my pillowcases and that suede texture made it really difficult to slide the pillow into a case against the friction it created.

Two, I soon realised I could still smell strong chemical off-gassing from the memory foam core, even though I'd aired the pillow outside after unboxing it the day before.

Three, that microfibre padding soon bunched up and became quite lumpy under my head, making the pillow surface uneven. Because the padded pillow case is also quite loose, I had to keep pushing the cushioning down so it didn't bulge up around my face.

And four, as well as making my head feel very hot, after 10 minutes or so with my head resting on this pillow my body heat had caused the memory foam core to compress.

This is a feature of memory foam and could have worked well in that it might have cradled my head, but what happened in reality was that the pillow edge next to my neck compressed and the top of the pillow did not, which meant I soon didn't have enough pillow height for comfortable side sleeping.

I switched to my back instead, and found the pillow a decent height for back sleeping, although I did find it quite firm. And again, the memory foam soon caused issues as it moulded around my head, but didn't bounce back very quickly if I shifted position slightly. That meant there was a dip where my head had just been and the pillow felt lumpy in my new posture.

You can also take that memory foam core out and use just the padded pillow case as a very low loft pillow if you're a front sleeper. It was then the right height for me to sleep on my stomach, but I still found the microfibre filling bunched up and felt lumpy.

All in all, this pillow was OK comfort-wise. Its adaptability meant it did a decent job of allowing me to alter it to sleep on my side, back, or front. It just wasn't the most comfortable pillow I've slept on in any of those positions.

Temperature regulation

As mentioned, I also found this pillow hot to sleep on. Emma says that this pillow is breathable, but I didn't notice much breathability in its design.

I only needed to rest my head on the pillow for ten minutes and it soon felt very warm to the touch, and made me want to flip the pillow over in search of a cooler side.

Memory foam mattresses are notorious for reflecting body heat back toward the sleeper unless they have cooling technolgies added, and I definitely found that to be the case with this memory foam pillow.

Granted I'm a hot sleeper, but my bedroom was only 17°C during my tests, so had I been testing this pillow during the summer, I think I would have woken up with a very hot and sweaty head by the morning.

Ease of care

Although you can't wash the memory foam core, you can unzip the pillowcase, remove the memory foam insert, and wash the outer case of this pillow.

As for how to wash a pillow, in the case of the Emma Original Hybrid, the care label says it can be machine-washed at 40°C and tumble-dried on low.

I only tested washing it once, and it came out of the machine fine and dried quickly. But I did find it made the microfibre filling bunch up more and required a lot of shaking and reshuffling of the fibres to try and make the pillow surface even again.

Sleep trial

If you buy direct from Emma, then the Emma Original Hybrid Pillow comes with a 30-night sleep trial. This is useful as pillows are very subjective, and it can be hard to guess whether an option is right for you without actually sleeping on it.

A sleep trial allows you a set number of nights to test out sleeping on the pillow in your own home. Terms and conditions apply, but Emma says it will collect the pillow and refund your money if you decide the pillow doesn't suit your needs within this time.

The only thing the brand doesn't make clear on its website is what happens to products returned during a sleep trial. Most bedding retailers recycle or donate returned products to charity, but Emma is less clear on what happens to end-of-life products.

Value for money

As of writing, the Emma Original Hybrid Pillow costs £55. I'd say that's a mid-range price point for a pillow, and considering its versatility, it's not a bad price.

However, although this adjustable pillow is very adaptable, I didn't find it the best at any one of its claims. If you're looking for the best pillow for a side sleeper, I found the Panda Memory Foam Pillow performed much better, and it's cheaper at £44.95.

Similarly, if you're looking for the best pillow for back sleeping I much prefer either the medium-firm Panda Hybrid Bamboo Pillow or the soft and plump The White Company Luxury Hungarian Goose Down Pillow. As for front sleeping, I still don't think microfibre can beat the malleability of a low loft feather and down pillow, like the Dorma Hungarian Goose Down Soft Support Pillow.

However, if I've learned anything about pillows in my four years as Ideal Home's Sleep Editor, it's that they're like marmite. One person's 'not-right' can be another's 'best-thing-I-ever-slept-on', so, Emma's 30-night sleep trial is a great way to test out whether this adaptable pillow is a good fit for you.

Wondering how to choose a pillow? It's a little more complicated than you might first think, but, in this guide, I'll explain the secret formula to getting this purchase right.

As Ideal Home's Sleep Editor, I've tested over 50 pillows to find the best pillows on the market, and during that process, I've learned that pillow purchasing is all about finding the right pillow for you.

That means that – just like when choosing the best mattress for your bed – what I find comfortable, may not be what you find comfortable, and vice versa.

However, there is a formula for choosing the right pillow for your needs, and along with an expert panel – including a registered osteopath, a sleep scientist, and two pillow manufacturers – I'm here to guide you through everything you need to know when choosing a pillow.

How to choose the right pillow for you

'The right pillow should not leave you with any pain or discomfort in the morning,' says sleep expert Hannah Shore, Head of Sleep Science at Mattress Online. 'I'm sure we’ve all slept in a hotel room and the pillow is just not quite right, our sleep quality decreases, and we wake up with a crick in our necks'.

The key to avoiding this is choosing a pillow that suits your sleeping position. So let's get stuck into how to do just that.

1. Consider your sleeping position

The first and most important thing you'll want to consider when choosing a pillow is what your preferred sleeping position is. That's because this dictates the pillow loft (that's pillow talk for height) that's right for you.

It might surprise you to know that when it comes to how many pillows you should sleep with, experts advise it should be just one pillow, not two, so making sure your pillow is the right height becomes even more important.

Side sleepers

'Side sleepers often need a firmer, higher-loft pillow to maintain neck alignment,' say Jonathan and Emily Attwood, founders of bedding brand scooms.

'If you are a side sleeper, choose a pillow that fills the gap between your ear and the edge of your shoulder,' advises sleep scientist Hannah Shore, and 'ensure it supports your neck in neutral alignment with the rest of your spine,' continues registered osteopath, sleep expert, and founder of The Sleep Site, Dave Gibson.

This means that side sleepers will need a higher and firmer pillow than a back or stomach sleeper. It's also important to remember that all of us are built differently; side sleepers with wider shoulders will need a higher pillow than those of us with narrow shoulders. The firm Panda Memory Foam Pillow or softer scooms Hungarian Goose Down Pillow are both good high-loft options for side sleepers.

'Side sleepers may also benefit from sleeping with a pillow between the knees,' says osteopath Dave. This can help to keep the spine in good alignment and prevent the lower back from twisting.

Back sleepers

'A medium-thin pillow that supports the natural curve of your neck works well for back sleepers,' says osteopath Dave Gibson. 'If you are a back sleeper then you will need a much thinner pillow with minimal support,' agrees Hannah Shore.

'Technically your pillow should hold your head in the same position as it would be if you were standing upright with good posture,' Dave continues. 'Too low and your head falls back creating pressure in the neck. Too high and it tends to leave the neck muscles stiff'.

The memory foam Panda Hybrid Bamboo Pillow or The White Company Luxury Hungarian Goose Down Pillow are both good medium-loft options for back sleepers.

'For added comfort, place a small pillow under your knees to reduce pressure on your lower back,' Dave suggests.

Stomach sleepers

'Front sleepers should use a very thin pillow or none under their head to avoid neck strain, plus a small pillow under the abdomen for lower back support,' says Dave Gibson.

'Generally, stomach sleepers would benefit most from a soft pillow which will be squashier with less loft,' agree Jonathan and Emily Attwood. 'These low-loft pillows will minimise neck strain'.

I've found the Dorma Hungarian Goose Down 'Soft Support' Pillow or the more affordable M&S Collection 2pk Duck Feather & Down Soft Pillows are low loft options that work well for stomach sleepers.

'However, I recommend that you learn to sleep in another position if this is your preferred sleep position,' says osteopath Dave Gibson. That's because stomach sleeping 'twists the neck and can cause long-term strain'.

Combination sleepers

But what if, like me, you're an active sleeper who changes position a lot during the night? I've found a squashy feather and down pillow is the best bet here as you can scrunch it up to make it higher for side sleeping or flatten it down if you move onto your back or stomach.

'For combination sleepers, a low to medium pillow can often offer the balance of support and flexibility across all sleeping positions,' confirm Jonathan and Emily Attwood.

2. Get your pillow firmness right

Secondly, you'll want to consider whether you opt for a soft or a firm pillow. Although there is some degree of personal preference to this, again, considering your sleeping position is vital.

You want to match the pillow firmness to your favourite sleeping position' say Jonathan and Emily Attwood. 'Side sleepers often need a firmer pillow to maintain neck alignment, whilst stomach sleepers may benefit more from a softer pillow to avoid excessive neck extension'.

'Pillow firmness depends on your sleeping position,' agrees osteopath Dave Gibson. 'For back and side sleepers, a firmer pillow offers better neck support. If sleeping face down, a thin, soft pillow (or none) is recommended,' Dave continues.

3. Find your preferred pillow filling

The third step in the pillow-choosing formula, is to consider your pillow filling. This largely comes down to personal preference, as each pillow fill has its benefits and disadvantages, such as offering a cooler sleep, helping reduce allergies, or being easy to wash. You can find out more in our guide to the best filling for a pillow.

However, it is still important that your preferred fill works with your sleeping position. 'Fill type is a personal choice,' agrees Dave Gibson, 'but ensure it supports your neck in neutral alignment with the rest of your spine'.

'Does your pillow need to be firm and keep its shape all night through?' asks sleep expert Hannah Shore. If you're a side sleeper the answer is, yes. In this case a dense fill, such as memory foam can work best. 'Or are you a scruncher?' asks Hannah. In this case, squashier filling, such as feather and down or an airy microfibre might suit you better.

Our expert panel

FAQs

How do you tell if a pillow is good for you?

There's one foolproof way to tell if a pillow is good for you. 'Simply put, you should find it comfy' says sleep scientist Hannah Shore. 'A pillow should allow you to sleep throughout the night without you waking up due to being uncomfortable, if you find yourself rearranging your pillows a lot throughout the night, chances are that pillow isn’t for you'.

How do you tell if your pillow is the right height?

How do you tell if you've found the right height pillow? 'Have a partner take a photo to check if your spinal alignment is correct' says Dave.

This can be especially helpful if you sleep on your side; if you've got the pillow height right, then when you're laid on your side your spine should be in a relatively straight line from the base of your spine to the crown of your head.

Think of your spine like a hosepipe and avoid putting any kinks in that hosepipe. If your neck is bent upwards your pillow is too high. If your neck is dropping down your pillow is too low.

So there we go, everything you need to know about how to choose the right pillow for you!

This Aeyla Adjustable FOAMO Pillow review puts the brand's adjustable memory foam pillow through its paces to see how it performs compared to the best pillows on the market.

In a nutshell

The Aeyla Adjustable FOAMO Pillow is somewhat of a rarity in the pillow market. That's because you can adjust the amount of filling in this pillow to make it exactly the right height for your sleep needs.

I've only come across two other pillows with this degree of flexibility – the foam-filled Simba Hybrid Pillow and the wool-filled Woolroom Deluxe Washable Pillow. In contrast, the Aeyla FOAMO is a firmer pillow filled with memory foam and microfibre that give it a much higher loft.

That makes it a great option for a side sleeper. Especially a side sleeper with a broader frame who needs a higher pillow to fill the gap between their shoulder and neck.

You can remove more filling to make the Aeyla FOAMO suitable for a back sleeper, although I found it too dense for comfortable back sleeping. If you like a firm pillow though, this could be for you.

It's not perfect though. Unlike the Simba Hybrid Pillow which is filled with foam cubes, or the Woolroom Deluxe pillow which is filled with chunky wool fibre, the Aeyla FOAMO is filled with a mix of small memory foam chunks and fine strands of polyester microfibre. I found that made adjusting the filling a very messy affair.

The synthetic strands immediately spread into the air and covered my bed once I unzipped the inner pillowcase (and became stuck in the zip when I was trying to unzip and rezip it).

However, for some, this pillow could be the exact mix of high loft and firm density they've been searching for. A 30-night sleep trial also makes it easier to take that gamble. And if it works for you, you may be willing to overlook the downside of those annoying polyester fibres.

Aeyla Adjustable FOAMO Pillow review

Specifications

• Best for: side sleepers, back sleepers
• Materials: cover: 40% bamboo + 60% polyester, inner: memory foam + microfibre
• Dimensions: W50cm x L75cm x H adjustable
• Care instructions: unclear
• RRP: £89

Comfort

As you might expect from its name, the Aeyla Adjustable FOAMO Pillow is adjustable. That means that you can add or subtract filling to make the pillow the right height for your sleep needs.

This pillow arrives vacuum-packed, so it initially looks like a very disappointing and super-flat affair. However, within two minutes of unpacking it, it had magically expanded to its full height.

Once fully expanded, this is a really plump and dense pillow. According to Aeyla, its filling is a mix of 'medium-firm memory-foam and microfiber blend fill'. In practice, I found this meant it has a decent amount of squish, but still feels firm and retains its height well throughout the night.

At its maximum height, I measure this pillow to have a loft of around 20cm. So to my mind it's definitely a pillow for a side sleeper. It was too high for me fully stuffed, but that shouldn't have been a problem because the Aeyla is designed to be adjustable.

However, once I unzipped the outercase and attempted to unzip the inner case which contains the fill, I encountered my first problem. Namely that the loose strands of microfibre filling immediately got stuck in the zip which made unzipping it a process that required a lot of patience.

Those loose strands are super soft and silky, and no doubt a part of what makes the pillow feel as dense and plump as it does, but I soon discovered they were also super annoying.

Unlike the comparable Simba Hybrid Pillow where you get a bag to store the loose pillow filling you remove, the Aeyla FOAMO pillow offers no such solution. And I found it impossible to remove the filling without loose polyester fibres floating into the air and covering every available surface.

In fact, I'd only removed a handful of the stuffing before I nearly aborted my mission. I needed to remove a lot more to get it to the height I needed and the air was already full of loose synthetic fibres that were stuck in my throat, presumably from my breathing them in as they floated into the air whilst being disturbed.

I persevered for the sake of this review, but had I purchased the Aeyla pillow independently, I would have been packing it up to return at this point.

Admittedly you may only need to adjust the filling once, but when I tested the adjustable Simba Hybrid Pillow I found I adjusted the filling several times to tweak the loft slightly. I definitely wouldn't have wanted to deal with the mess the Aeyla pillow created by adjusting it multiple times.

However, once lowered, it fit the gap between my head and shoulder better and kept my head in alignment with my spine, although I still felt its domed shape didn't offer a lot of support to my neck. I prefer a box wall pillow for fitting snugly against my neck when side sleeping.

Lowered further, I could make it a good height for back sleeping. However, I found it too dense and firm in this sleep position and prefer a pillow with a little more squish. Similarly, even though it can be lowered into as thin a pillow as you wish, I found it too dense for comfortable stomach sleeping.

Temperature regulation

A common problem when testing memory foam pillows is that they tend to sleep warm, which can mean waking up with a very hot head in the night.

That's because memory foam is a very dense material that doesn't naturally allow any airflow. However, Aeyla addresses this issue in a few ways.

Firstly, the memory foam filling is broken up into loose chunks rather than one solid block which presumably allows for a little more breathability. Secondly, the brand uses gel-infused memory foam which is designed to offer a cooler sleep. Thirdly, the pillow is fitted with a woven bamboo and polyester mix cover which should also increase breathability directly next to the head.

In practice, that meant I did find the pillow cooler than many standard memory foam pillows I've tested. However, after a few hours of sleeping on it, the pillow still felt warmer than a feather and down or wool-filled pillow.

As memory foam pillows go though, the Aeyla pillow does perform better than many at temperature regulation.

Ease of care

The care instructions for the Aeyla Adjustable FOAMO Pillow are confusing. The product description on the website states that the pillow cover is machine washable, but the care label on the pillow itself advises against washing it.

Instead of washability, you do get a positive motivational quote though.

Sleep trial

A pillow is a difficult thing to get right. Our sleep position, body shape, and how firm our mattress is all affect which pillow feels best for us.

This is why a sleep trial is really useful. Aeyla offers a 30 night sleep trial on the FOAMO pillow, which should be plenty of time to tweak the adjustable filling and see if it's a good option for you.

Value for money

As of writing, the Aeyla Adjustable FOAMO Pillow retails at £89.00, which certainly isn't cheap, but it also isn't the most expensive pillow I've tested.

Overall, I think its price point is reasonable considering there aren't many adjustable pillows on the market. After all, an expensive pillow is worth it if it means you can find that elusive Holy Grail of a pillow that's just right for your body frame and sleep style.

Do I think its quality matches that price point? I'm less sure about that. I found the filling incredibly messy to adjust, and the loose fibres getting caught in the inner zip could mean that the zip doesn't last long.

Really, the sleep trial is this pillow's saving grace. That 30-night trial period makes it a safer bet to order and test out whether this pillow is right for you. If it is, it could be worth every penny.

This Panda Hybrid Bamboo Pillow review puts the brand's premium memory foam pillow through its paces to find out if it's worth the price tag.

And to see if it can give the best pillows on the market a run for their money. *Spoiler alert*: I think it definitely does.

In a nutshell

The Panda Hybrid Bamboo Pillow is the most recent launch in the brand's pillow collection. It joins the popular Panda Memory Foam Pillow, which is a favourite with side sleepers thanks to its high loft, firm feel, and affordable price tag.

In contrast, the Panda Hybrid Bamboo Pillow is a softer pillow. It still utilises a memory foam core, but this bamboo and charcoal-infused memory foam inner has more squish to it than its predecessor.

That extra squish factor meant my head sank further into its surface during testing, and the result is a mid-height pillow that will suit side sleepers who prefer a softer sleep surface, side sleepers with narrower shoulders, and those of us who switch between side and back sleeping.

Unlike Panda's original Memory Foam Pillow, the Hybrid Pillow also features a quilted cover that's padded with bamboo and recycled polyester microfibre and finished with a silky smooth bamboo rayon cover.

These extra touches make for a very luxurious feeling pillow. It may be nearly twice the price of the Panda Memory Foam Pillow, but when you compare the two side-by-side, it's clear to see that the Hybrid Pillow is the more premium product.

All in all, if you're a side sleeper who's looking for a pillow that has enough height to keep your head in good alignment with the spine, but still offers plenty of sumptuous squish, this could be 'the one'.

Plus, a 30-night sleep trial makes this pillow's high price tag a little more palatable. That return period allows you to sleep on it – literally – to test out whether you think it's worth the money before you commit.

Panda Hybrid Bamboo Pillow review

Specifications

• Best for: side and back sleepers
• Materials: cover: bamboo rayon + polyester, inner: charcoal-infused memory foam
• Dimensions: 70 x 40 x 13cm
• Care instructions: the removable cover is machine-washable at 40°c, the memory foam core can't be washed

Comfort

Although this pillow's dimensions state it's 1cm deeper than the popular Panda Memory Foam Pillow (the Panda Hybrid Pillow is 13cm deep compared to the Panda Memory Foam Pillow's 12cm depth), in practice, this is a lower loft pillow.

That's because the Hybrid Pillow's memory foam core is significantly softer than the Panda's original memory foam pillow. I found the Hybrid pillow still did a great job of filling the gap between my shoulder and neck when I was laid on my side, but my head sank deeper into the pillow.

This means you lose some pillow height – so the firmer Panda Memory Foam pillow likely remains the best buy for any side sleepers with wider shoulders – but the overall sleep experience was a much more cushioned affair. Which I, for one, loved.

That slightly lower loft also means that (unlike the Panda Memory Foam pillow) the Hybrid pillow works for a back sleeper as well as a side sleeper. So it's a great option if, like me, you're prone to changing your sleeping position throughout the night.

Plus, as well as a softer memory foam core, the Panda Hybrid Bamboo Pillow also features a removable quilted cover that offers more padding.

That padding is a mix of bamboo and recycled polyester microfibre, and although it's only around 1cm deep, combined with the bamboo rayon cover which gives the pillow a silky feel, it results in a very luxurious feeling pillow.

In fact, this is by far the most luxurious memory foam pillow I've come across. Overall, I think it's one of the best synthetic pillows I've tested, achieving a great compromise between the plump sink-in comfort of a premium feather and down pillow and the firmer support of memory foam.

Temperature regulation

However, one of the downsides of opting for a memory foam pillow instead of one filled with natural materials, such as feather and down or wool, is that memory foam can tend to cause overheating.

That's because the plastic polymers used in this manmade material are very dense and don't allow for airflow through the pillow.

That said, the Hybrid Bamboo Pillow makes multiple efforts to address this. Firstly, Panda uses what it calls an 'activated bamboo charcoal-infused memory foam' for the pillow core. The brand says that those infusions work to cancel out memory foam's tendency to retain heat, and offer better temperature regulation.

Secondly, the brand has added channels through the memory foam core to allow for air flow.

Thirdly, there's a mesh band built into the cover that runs around the circumference of the pillow to allow for more airflow and breathability.

And fourth, the cool-to-the-touch bamboo rayon no doubt also helps deliver a slightly cooler sleep.

As a hot sleeper, I did still find this pillow felt warmer to sleep on than a feather and down or wool option, but I didn't wake up with a hot and sweaty head like I often have on other memory foam and polyester pillows I've tested. So considering, what it's made from, I think the Hybrid Bamboo pillow offers decent temperature regulation overall.

Ease of care

As with all memory foam pillows, you can't wash the main component of this pillow – the memory foam itself. But, the Panda Hybrid Bamboo Pillow's cover can be easily unzipped and removed for washing.

The care instructions advise a 40°c machine wash and then line drying.

Personally, I think adding a pillow protector is still worth it, but that extra layer of protection is a useful feature and shows attention to detail in the pillow's design.

Sleep trial

No matter how much research we may do before buying a pillow, this is still a tricky purchase to get right. That's because factors such as our sleep position, body shape, and how much cushioning our mattress offers can all affect which pillow feels most comfortable for us.

Unfortunately, that can mean a lot of wasted money spent on unsuitable pillows, which is why opting for one that comes with a sleep trial can be a very good idea.

Now very popular in the mattress market, a sleep trial allows you to test out a sleep product at home, sleeping on it for a set number of nights with the option to return it for a refund (or sometimes an exchange) if it isn't the right fit for you.

Panda is one of a few retailers that now also offers sleep trials on its pillows (and duvets, as I discovered in my Panda Cloud duvet review).

That means that you have 30 nights to test out the Hybrid Bamboo Pillow at home and really find out if it's the best pillow for you before you commit. In my opinion, this is a real bonus that could save you from a multitude of pillow-buying mistakes.

Value for money

The Panda Hybrid Bamboo Pillow isn't cheap. As of writing, it retails at £89.95, and a pillow that's just shy of a hundred pounds is going to be a significant investment for most of us.

However, when you add up how many hours you spend resting your head on a pillow, I do think an expensive pillow can be worth it if it's a good fit for your body and sleeping position.

In my opinion, this pillow will suit side sleepers and those sleepers who alternate between their side and their back. Whether it's the best pillow for you will depend on whether it's the right height to fit neatly between your shoulder and neck once you're laid on your side. But if it does, I think this is a brilliant pillow that is well worth that premium price tag.

The attention to detail in Panda's design is second to none, from the distinctive black panda logo to the quilted bamboo rayon cover, it's clear from the moment you unbox this pillow that it's a premium product.

And, in my testing experience, the soft cushioning and support this pillow offers is difficult to find anywhere else. So if its measurements suit your body frame, I don't think you'll regret paying its price tag.

Plus, if you shop whilst there are bedding deals to be found, you may not need to pay full price. I've been tracking the best Black Friday deals and Boxing Day and January sales for a few years now, and Panda usually offers good discounts at these times of the year.

The brand's pillows are also stocked by retailers such as Very, Amazon, and more. So if Panda itself doesn't have a sale on when you're ready to shop, you may still be able to find this pillow discounted elsewhere.

This Panda Memory Foam Bamboo Pillow review puts the brand's bestselling memory foam pillow through its paces to find out if it can deliver a great night's sleep.

After testing I think it's one of the best pillows for a side sleeper. Here's why.

In a nutshell

The Panda Memory Foam Bamboo Pillow is the brand's original pillow offering, and since its launch, it has amassed an impressive roster of positive reviews and happy owners.

Once I unboxed it, I could immediately see why. This pillow will likely be too high for back or stomach sleepers, but if you're a side sleeper, it's a brilliant option.

That's because its high loft and supportive memory foam core do a great job of filling the gap between the shoulder and the neck to keep the neck well-supported when you're lying on your side. Plus, this pillow feels more cushioned and breathable than many other memory foam pillows on the market.

Even better is the brand's 30-night sleep trial that allows you to test out the pillow at home before you commit to keeping it.

A sleep trial is important because we're all built differently, and the key to a good night's sleep is finding a pillow that fits your body. That sleep trial allows you to find out if the Panda Memory Foam Bamboo Pillow is 'just right' for you.

Panda Memory Foam Bamboo Pillow review

Specifications

• Best for: side sleepers
• Materials: cover: 70% bamboo fibre + 30% polyester, inner: memory foam
• Dimensions: 60 x 40 x 12cm
• Care instructions: the removable cover is machine-washable at 40°c, the memory foam core can't be washed

Comfort

As mentioned, this pillow has a high loft and a firm feel. Although Panda suggests it's suitable for all sleeping positions, I think it's far too high for a back or stomach sleeper, but that does mean it's the perfect design for a side sleeper.

When I was laid on my side, the pillow's dense feel and high loft did a great job of filling the gap between my shoulder and neck. This is important, as keeping the head in alignment with the spine is the key to finding a pillow that offers the right level of support to prevent neck pain.

The pillow also maintained that height throughout the night, meaning my head didn't gradually sink lower as I slept.

Plus, unlike many memory foam pillows I've tested, the Panda Memory Foam Bamboo Pillow still offered enough cushioning that it didn't feel like having a solid block underneath my head. Some memory foam pillows I've slept on have been so dense I've woken with earache! Not so with this option.

All in all, I think this is a great pillow choice for a side sleeper, and it reconfirms my experience that memory foam is one of the best fillings for a pillow if you sleep predominantly on your side.

However, as is the way with pillows, nothing is one-size-fits-all. If you're a side sleeper with very narrow shoulders this pillow may be too high, and if you're a side sleeper with wide shoulders it may not be quite high enough. However, a 30-night sleep trial can help you to assess if it's the right fit for you – more on that later.

Temperature regulation

Another common problem I've found when testing memory foam pillows is that they tend to cause overheating.

Memory foam is a very dense synthetic material that doesn't naturally allow any airflow. In my experience, this has meant waking up with a very hot and sweaty head in the night.

However, although the memory foam used in this pillow doesn't seem to have any particular cooling technologies added, in my tests I did find it slept cooler than many other memory foam pillows I've trialed.

Panda says this is down to the bamboo cover which is a mix of 70% bamboo and 30% polyester. Bamboo viscose is known for its cool-to-the-touch properties, so likely this helped me to keep a cooler head.

That said, I did still find that after a few hours under my head, the pillow felt warmer than a feather and down or wool-filled pillow. But, compared to other memory foam pillows, Panda's design offers far better temperature regulation.

Ease of care

You can't wash the memory foam core itself, but handily the Panda Memory Foam Pillow has a removable cover that can be unzipped and popped in the washing machine for a freshen-up.

The care instructions advise a 40°c wash and then a low tumble dry.

Adding a pillow protector is still worth it, but as you can't wash the main pillow core, the extra layer of protection is a nice feature.

Sleep trial

A pillow can be an incredibly difficult thing to get right. That's because our sleep position, our body shape, and how much we sink into our mattress can all affect which pillow is the best fit for us.

This is why a sleep trial is such a useful benefit. Usually reserved for mattresses, many brands are now extending sleep trials to other sleep products, which I think is great news for shoppers.

It's very difficult to tell if a pillow will be right for you before you sleep on it for a few nights, and without a sleep trial, that can mean a lot of wasted money.

The good news is that Panda offers us 30 nights to test out the Memory Foam Bamboo Pillow at home and find out if it's 'the one' for you.

Value for money

On unboxing – and with this pillow it is a proper unboxing as it's delivered in a recyclable cardboard box – the Panda Memory Foam Bamboo pillow immediately feels like a premium product.

The removable outer cover feels nice to the touch and its irregular dimpled texture and the distinctive black panda logo embroidered on one corner are nice touches.

Although, if you prefer to use white pillowcases, then just like in my Panda Cloud Duvet review, I did find that graphic black embroidery was visible through thinner material which may annoy some!

However, all in all, this feels like a great quality product, which makes its (relatively) very reasonable price point something of a surprise.

I definitely think investing in an expensive pillow is worth it if it offers you a better night's sleep, but, as of writing, the Panda Memory Foam Bamboo Pillow retails at just £44.95, which is about average for a memory foam pillow.

You can find slightly cheaper memory foam options, but in my experience, they're not of this quality, which I think makes this pillow a really good value buy.

Oxford pillowcases are the little luxury you should add to your bedroom if you want to feel like you're sleeping in a hotel room.

It doesn’t get much better than sleeping in a posh hotel bed. Oxford pillowcases are one way of making a bed look more luxurious without breaking the bank. An Oxord pillowcase has a decorative border around the edge, it can be fitted over all the best pillows on the market to add a touch of elegance to your bedding.

There are plenty of affordable Oxford pillowcases available from the best places to buy bedding - but what exactly sets this style of pillowcase apart from a standard pillowcase?

What are the benefits of an Oxford pillowcase?

‘For a restful night's sleep, we are firm believers in investing in good quality bed linen, and pillowcases are no exception,' says Mark Tremlett, Founder of Naturalmat. 'Oxford pillowcases stand out as a timeless favourite for their blend of style and practicality.'

‘Named after their original use of Oxford cloth, this style of pillowcase can easily be identified by its wide-stitched hem, typically measuring between 5 to 10 cm. The decorative border creates the illusion of a larger pillow, being particularly effective on bigger beds, helping to fill the space, and creating a more polished look.’

An Oxford pillowcase is certainly easier on the eye, but it also has structural benefits, too, by helping your pillow maintain its shape.

‘Like standard pillowcases, they also help to protect the pillow and due to their reinforced edges, can often be more durable,’ says Emily and Jonathan Attwood, Founders of scooms.

Oxford cloth is known for being thick and durable, but Mark also suggests using other materials, which can also improve your sleep. ‘The modern Oxford pillowcase is available in a variety of materials, but we recommend choosing a natural fabric such as organic cotton. Renowned for its hypoallergenic and breathable properties, organic cotton offers a gentle and soft touch that’s kind to your skin, promoting a restful and comfortable night's sleep,’ he says.

Shop Oxford pillowcases

Luckily, Oxford pillowcases are not hard to come by when looking for where to buy bedding. These are a few of our favourite high street picks.

The Oxford pillowcase is an easy way to add a splash of extra luxury to your bedding. With wellness remaining a core trend in 2025, a little luxury is one way to take care of ourselves - so why not treat yourself to a bed fit for a king or queen?

John Lewis has revealed their Mulberry Silk Pillowcase has been flying off the shelves this year as they’ve seen a rise in sales of silk bedding. And yes, if you want a better night's sleep this could be the pillowcase you need.

This year alone, the John Lewis Mulberry Silk Pillowcase has seen an increase in sales of 10%, with the 14 colourways regularly sold out. But one colour was the most popular by far - a creamy pale pink called Crocus - which is unsurprising considering pink has been a huge paint trend this year.

Silk pillowcases are a luxury item worth investing in. Silk can help regulate your body temperature at night, and improve your hair and skin, making it an excellent choice for any last-minute Christmas gifts or even as a treat for yourself.

The crocus pillowcase has a gorgeous iridescent sheen and oozes luxury appeal. Mulberry silk is smooth, soft and naturally breathable. Its smooth finish helps prevent frizz and ‘bed hair’ in the morning and the case is a natural moisture repellent, again helping with frizz and keeping your skin hydrated.

The silk material is also very durable. Silk is famous for being incredibly strong so you can expect it to last as long as any cotton or linen pillowcases. At £45, silk is more expensive than standard cotton, however, with the benefits a silk case provides many would argue the price is worth it.

What are the benefits of using a silk pillowcase?

As a whole, silk bedding can help you sleep better, but this also rings true for silk pillowcases.

‘A silk pillowcase can do wonders for your sleep quality. Its smooth texture reduces friction on your skin and hair, helping to prevent irritation and discomfort. This means you’re less likely to be disturbed by rough fabrics or tangled hair. Plus, silk’s breathability helps prevent overheating, allowing air to flow freely and cool you down, which supports the regulation of your circadian rhythms for deeper, more restful sleep. Think of it like a soothing breeze on a warm night,’ comments Hafiz Shariff, founder of Owl + Lark.

Sleep aside, a silk pillowcase can often help you look and feel your best according to Emily and Jonathan Attwood, Founders of scooms. They said: ‘From a health and beauty perspective, silk pillowcases have become a popular choice as they are gentle on the hair and skin.

‘They can help retain moisture and reduce the risk of fine lines, wrinkles and acne for skin and help to reduce frizz in hair too. Being naturally hypoallergenic, silk is often a preferred choice for those with sensitive skin or allergies.

‘Beyond these practicalities and benefits, silk can look and feel really luxurious in the bedroom, making it a sought-after choice for many.’

If you opt to invest in a silk pillowcase, you don't have to go all in with matching silk sheets. It is possible to style your silk bedding with your existing sheets.

‘To style your silk pillowcase, choose colours that complement your duvet or throws. Classic ivory and soft pastels are timeless, but deep blues or rich greens can make a statement. Pair it with crisp cotton or percale sheets to add a subtle contrast, elevating the overall feel. A silk pillow brings quiet elegance to any bed, creating a restful retreat that blends comfort with style,’ says Hafiz.

Alternative silk pillowcases

If you haven't got your hands on the Mulberry Silk Pillowcase, here a few more worth investing in.

For better sleep, skin and hair, a silk pillowcase is definitely worth investing in - we guarantee you'll feel better for it.

Bedding and bed linen takes up a lot of space when it’s not in use. Not to mention it’s tricky to keep it fresh so you get that “fresh sheet” feel on your bed linen every time, or preventing a musty smell when storing a duvet for a while. But help is at hand.

You might be wondering how to organise bedding. As a sleep-product writer with around three years of experience, I’ve got a lot of experience in this.

Along with my personal expertise, I’ve spoken to leading bedding brands and home-organisation experts to get their tips and tricks. Here’s the gold standard for storing bedding.

Where is the best place to store bed linen?

Whether you’re storing bedding or duvets, you need a dry place where air can circulate.

‘The best place to store bed linens and bedding is in a cool and dry environment that offers good air circulation,’ says Kate Edmondson, founder of home-organisation service Home Edited. ‘Ideal spaces would be an airing cupboard or designated linen cupboard. Just be sure to avoid areas such as attics or bathroom spaces as these areas can be humid and/or damp and over time can cause mould, mildew and musty smelling linens.’

‘It’s best to store bed linen in a dry linen closet,’ agrees Sue Spencer, owner of A Life More Organised and is a KonMari Master consultant.

‘I like to make sure the different sets of bedding are organised either by size or bedroom so that it’s easy to put them away after washing – and easy to grab them to change the bed,’ continues Sue from A Life More Organised. ‘Or, if you don’t have a large airing cupboard then store the spare set of bedding in the room where it will be used. An ideal space would be in a breathable cotton bag in the drawer under the bed or a dedicated drawer in a chest of drawers.’

Kate from Home Edited advises: ‘The use of bed linen organisers will contain linen sets together, enhancing visibility and accessibility whilst keeping your linens organised.’

‘A great tip for containing linen sets together is using the sets pillowcase to keep bed sheet and duvet cover together,’ says Kate from Home Edited. ‘Folding the duvet and sheet and placing them inside the pillowcase creates an easy grab-and-go when it’s linen-change-over day.’

Where is the best place to store a duvet?

There are plenty of things to consider when thinking about how to store a duvet. They’re big for a start, so require adequate storage space that’s breathable.

But before you pack away your duvet, it’s a good idea to do a bit of prep so it’s ready when you need it again. After all, you’ve invested in the best duvet you could – you want to it be fresh as a daisy when you unpack it again.

‘Make sure that if you’ve washed a seasonal duvet before packing it away that it's completely aired and dry as any residual moisture will turn musty over time,’ advises Sue from A Life More Organised.

‘The best place to store bed linen is in a dry, and dark area with good airflow, such as an airing cupboard or wardrobe ideally,’ says Wendy Miranda, Customer Ambassador at Lakeland. ‘You should avoid storing bedding in humid areas like bathrooms, attics, sheds, or garages, where moisture can cause mold and mildew.’

‘Sometimes space can be limited when organising our bedding, so utilising spaces in our bedrooms such as wardrobe shelving or under an ottoman bed can make for great storage alternative to a designated linen or airing cupboard,’ says Kate from Home Edited.

‘Keep like items together and avoid plastic storage solutions as these won’t allow air to circulate,’ says Home Edited’s Kate. ‘Opt for the use of breathable storage, which will allow air to circulate preventing moisture buildup, while covering items to minimise dust. Breathable materials include cotton, linen, recycled polyester, as well as polypropylene. Be sure to order the right size storage for what you are looking to store and label for easy identification.’

Home Edited’s Kate recommends these affordable polypropylene storage bags for storing duvets from IKEA.

Where is the best place to store pillows?

Pillows are very similar to duvets in where you can store them. Somewhere cool and dry with plenty of ventilation is going to keep them in tip-top condition, so you still have the best pillows when you need them.

‘I recommend storing both duvets and pillows in cotton storage bags as this protects them from dust and dirt,’ says Sue from A Life More Organised. ‘This is especially important if you are storing spare bedding in an ottoman bed as these storage spaces are notoriously dusty.’

Soak & Sleep sell these fantastic pillow storage bags that are perfect for the job.

FAQs

Should you store bedding in vacuum pack bags?

If you have feather and down duvets and pillows, you’re best off avoiding vacuum-pack bags. The quills of the fillings often get damaged when compressed, and unless the duvet and pillows are absolutely bone dry, the moisture can cause mould to grow in your bedding.

However, if your bedding is totally dry and not made from down, then it’s a good space-saving idea.

‘Not only is this space-saving, it also keeps the contents free of dust and moisture, meaning they emerge in the same condition in which they went in,’ says Wendy from Lakeland. ‘Some may feel it’s an extra step too far but others love to do this.’

These Lakeland vacuum tote bags are perfect for the job. I use these to store away summer duvets in winter and they do a fantastic job.

Should you store bedding in a bedroom?

It depends on what your bedroom is like. If it’s damp – perhaps if you air laundry in there – then it’s not ideal.

‘You can store bedding in your bedroom,’ says Wendy from Lakeland. ‘But it’s best to keep it in a cool, dry and well-ventilated area. So depending on your bedroom and storage options you have, it may be best to keep it in an airing cupboard for example if you have one.’

‘If you have space to [store bedding in your bedroom] this then it makes sense to have products close at hand for the regular bed linen change,’ says Simon Glanville, managing director at A Place for Everything. ‘But otherwise store on top of a wardrobe or under a bed – or in a spare bedroom if you have the space.’

‘[This is fine], especially in kids rooms as it makes the emergency change of bedding in the middle of the night much easier,’ says Sue from A Life More Organised. ‘Avoid storing near radiators as this can make the bedding storage humid, which may lead to mildew if the bedding wasn’t completely dry when it was put away.’

How to keep stored bedding smelling fresh?

‘I like to use drawer liners to keep clothes and bedding smelling fresh (and prevent moths),’ says Sue from A Life More Organised. ‘I’ve also used tumble dryer sheets - but you need to be careful as some can leave an oil-like residue if you leave them directly on the bedding (as do essential oils).

‘Sachets of lavender or cedar (like those used to prevent moths) are also a good alternative,’ continues Sue. ‘If you are worried about dampness then baking soda or silica gel sachets are great. It’s worth noting that all these solutions have a shelf life and the fragrance fades so it’s worth regularly checking - the change of seasons is a great reminder to refresh them.’

Why do bed sheets smell after being stored?

This tends to be an indicator you’ve not done all the groundwork mentioned above before storing away. Perhaps the items were not totally dry before storing away, or you’ve stored them somewhere where air can’t circulate around the fibres.

‘This might be because they hadn’t dried properly before they were put away. Make sure they’re completely dry or aired thoroughly before storing them,’ says Wendy from Lakeland.

‘Giving your linen and bedding space to breathe when storing is paramount to avoiding musty smells developing over time,’ agrees Kate from Home Edited. ‘So be sure to avoid overpacking shelving to allow airflow and make sure that they are thoroughly dry before storing away. The use of scented paper or dryer sheets between the linens can help minimise unpleasant smells developing over time.’

If items have become very damp or moth-eaten, then you might wondering where to buy bedding from. Remember to go for the best bedding you can afford as you’re investing in better sleep when buying bedding.

If you don’t get a good night’s sleep, it can play havoc with your mood and energy levels – not to mention your relationships with everyone around you. There’s one key ingredient that’s often overlooked: the pillow.

A lumpy, ancient or unsupportive pillow has the power to blow your chances of eight undisturbed hours’ rest out of the window. While those pillow-stuffed baskets filling the middle aisle of the supermarket may be a total steal, the price you’ll pay for bagging a bargain could well be exhaustion. But on the opposite end of the spectrum are expensive pillows worth it if you're looking for a better nights sleep?

Before you even look at the price tag, it’s essential to identify the best pillow type for you. ‘Choosing the right pillow is essential for a comfortable and healthy night’s sleep,’ says Chrissie Rucker OBE, Founder, The White Company. ‘The right pillow is different for everyone – finding the perfect pillow comes down to your shape, size and how you sleep. For example, a good option for a wide-shouldered side-sleeper is a firm bottom pillow with a soft, luxurious pillow on top.’

Once you have identified the type of pillow (in terms of firmness, support and fillings) that might suit you best, it’s time to consider what you’re prepared to spend. The fanciest pillows claim to cradle your head, regulate your temperature and protect you from dust and mites. Some can feel like you’re sleeping on a cloud. They can also cost more than your weekly food/heating/petrol bills combined. So, is an expensive pillow truly worth the investment? Let’s explore.

What is the price range for pillows?

Let’s establish what we mean by expensive. It’s all relative but we think everyone can agree that paying more than £100 for one pillow qualifies as expensive. You can snag a 2-pack of basic hollowfibre pillows for £5-10 from supermarkets and stores like Home Bargains. They’re usually medium-support crowd-pleasers made from synthetic materials, which makes them machine washable and potentially a good choice for children’s beds.

Mid-range pillows cost around £15-40 for a 2-pack, for which you should get more natural materials and a little more finesse in the design. Once you go above the £40 mark, you start to get into technical territory and, sadly, the pillows are usually sold individually. We’re talking cooling construction, copper infusions, hypoallergenic fibres and memory foam, as well as your super-luxurious feather fillings. A pillow filled with white Hungarian goose down will set you back around £240+.

What can affect the difference in price between pillows?

Besides designer branding, the main element that impacts the price of pillows is what’s inside. The pillow fillings have an impact on the support levels, bounce, and allergy protection. Here, Emily and Jonathan Attwood, founders of Scooms, outline the pros and cons of the most popular pillow fillings:

Hollowfibre A hollow thick synthetic fibre that is lightweight but firm. If well packed, they can provide good neck support, but they are not biodegradable and may leak microplastics into the environment when washed.

Microfibre A much finer synthetic fibre that is soft and silky. Similar pros and cons to Hollowfibre.

Down and feather Usually combined in varying amounts to create the right support and comfort. Down is fine, soft and springy. Feathers add weight, firmness and support. A breathable, natural filling which is super comfy, but will come with a higher price tag than synthetic pillows.

Wool, Tencel, silk, bamboo and cotton Generally firmer as they are more naturally compressed. A wool pillow should provide good support and give, but will not have the puffy, lofty feel of a down and feather pillow.

Memory foam Contours to the shape of your head providing good support if you can get used to it. Not washable though and they can retain heat.

How do you know you’re buying a good-quality pillow?

While price alone can be a good indicator of quality, the materials and construction will also be a strong sign you're not making a pillow-buying mistake, so do check the label before you buy. ‘The best quality materials will come with a higher price tag but also with accreditations that will help to ensure you have a better night's sleep. For example, Nomite for dust-mite allergy sufferers and Oeko-Tex Standard 100 ensuring no toxins have been used in the pillow production,’ explains Emily and Jonathan of Scooms.

‘They also come with the added eco-friendly reassurance that the brand is environmentally responsible. More care will have gone into designing the pillow construction so that the level of support required for different sleep positions is provided. These factors in turn can be hugely beneficial for your sleep.’

Complex construction is also a sign of pricier pillows, which are generally built for longevity. For example, a pricy feather pillow might have a firm inner layer or even foam sections with softer downy layers nearer the head.

‘All pillows will need fluffing to prolong their life, but there are things to look out for. High-quality fills and pillows with an internal chamber restore its shape better. Synthetic fills such as memory foam hold their shape and mould in response to the heat of the body,’ adds Sally Hancox, Buying Manager, Soak & Sleep . ‘Also check out the casing material. A cotton case offers additional breathability, and a cooler sleeping surface, for instance.’

A cheap pillow might lose its shape and support after a couple of years, but more luxurious pillows are designed to hold their shape and maintain their bounce for longer. Looking at it this way, you might end up saving money by buying a more expensive pillow.

Is an expensive pillow worth it for those with back/neck pain?

If you’re one of those lucky people who fall asleep (and stay asleep) the minute you hit the sack, a really expensive pillow may well be wasted on you. However, if you’re one of the millions kept awake by neck or back pain, a pricy pillow could prove to be the best purchase you’ll ever make. Or at the very least, worth a shot!

Memory foam pillows tend to be targeted at those with specific health needs, with many crocked-up converts waxing lyrical about the pain relief on offer. A memory foam pillow moulds to the shape of your head and neck in response to heat and pressure.

‘Memory foam pillows are best suited to back and side sleepers – they are thick enough to align the neck and spine while remaining comfortable. They help to support the posture and cushion pressure points,’ explains James White, Sleep Expert at Panda.

This personalised support helps to relieve pressure points and maintain proper spinal alignment during sleep. They are not great for front sleepers though, and the really technical ones can be very expensive indeed.

Can a ‘value’ pillow ever be a good buy?

There are plenty of people who don’t have the luxury of a pillow at all, so we’d need to check our privilege before suggesting there’s no place for cheap pillows in this world. Even if you’re not on a tight budget, a value pillow could be just the ticket for guest bedrooms, where they won’t get a lot of use so are likely to stay bouncier and fresher for longer. You may also be wise to buy value pillows for times when they’re likely to get dirty, stained or damaged – like when camping or at kids’ sleepover parties.

But unless you sleep like a (well-behaved) baby and don’t stir until your alarm goes off, you might prefer to look beyond value pillows when shopping for the bed you sleep in every single night. ‘You spend a third of your life asleep, so you want your pillow to help you to sleep as well as possible. Although a cheaper pillow will save you money, it may not be made with the high standards which you should expect from an item that you spend so much quality time with!’ says Emily and Jonathan from Scooms.

‘None of us want to be sleeping on a pillow treated with chemicals that may not be good for our health and which will also end up in landfill after use. A poorly made pillow may have a loosely woven casing which can allow dust-mites to live in the filling, triggering allergic reactions for many and also be lacking in a properly supportive construction or filling, quickly becoming uncomfortable and resulting in achy necks and a poor night's sleep,’ the couple add.

Final verdict - What should you pay for a pillow?

It sounds trite but you should pay as much as you can afford. For some that might not be very much at all, and if sleep isn’t a problem, you won’t miss out. But if you can spend more, it’s usually worth the investment, especially if you have specific issues that are impacting the quality of your sleep.

While there may well be a degree of science-washing with all the technical jargon and marketing around designer pillows, you do get what you pay for when it comes to pillow shopping, and if that’s a fiver, don’t expect a lot. A mid-range pillow, priced at around £30 should offer decent quality and a few extra bells and whistles (hypoallergenic covers, cooling tech etc) than you’d get from a value pillow.

I have tested many pillows over the years (literally paid to sleep), and one thing I’ve learned is that pillow tastes are incredibly personal. I am a side-sleeper and sleep HOT. I can’t tolerate a memory foam pillow, even the most expensive, NASA-designed ones. They’re just too high for my head and make me sweat even more than usual, but my husband loves his memory foam bamboo pillow from Panda.

I do like wool pillows but find they need a lot of plumping to maintain any shape. My children are both very happy with their mid-priced Microfibre pillows, which have allergy-protecting covers to help with their asthma.

On my own bed I am beyond lucky to have the Marlowe goose down pillow by Brook + Wilde in Medium and I absolutely love it. At £240, it certainly is an investment buy and I’ll be forever grateful that I was gifted mine – no company wants them back after testing, for obvious hygiene reasons. But I would absolutely spend my own money on a new one if/when it needs replacing. I’m not going to pretend it won’t hurt (my wallet that is) but I sleep incredibly well on it, my head feels supported but not too high and it’s just so light and airy and squishy and luxurious.

I’ve had my eye-wateringly expensive pillow for two years now and it is showing no signs of losing its lovely soft bounce. I take it with me when I travel whenever possible, and never sleep as well if I leave it behind. I don’t love it more than my husband, but sometimes it’s a very close call!

Whatever your budget, choosing the perfect pillow comes down to personal preference, your sleep habits, and individual health needs. If you’re tempted to really stretch your budget, take time to work out exactly what you’re paying for, and whether you really need it. It’s hard to put a price on a good night’s sleep but if that restorative REM sleep often eludes you, investing in expensive pillows could well be worth every penny.

Buy a pillow in haste and repent at leisure. That’s not the exact idiom, but the sentiment remains. You need to spend time weighing up what is the best pillow for you.

You see, the best pillows for you are not necessarily going to be the best pillows for someone else. Many people don’t realise this and don’t think about their individual pillow-based needs.

Most people make some common mistakes when buying a pillow. But not you – because you’re here to avoid all those pitfalls. As a sleep-product journalist with three years of experience in writing about pillows, duvets, mattresses and more, there are things I wish I'd known before buying a pillow and mistakes I often hear experts mention, so I’m going to share some pillow-buying advice with you.

1. Not selecting the right pillow feel

Everyone has a pillow-feel preference, but many people aren’t aware of it. They then go and buy a pillow without thought about what kind of feel they like, and end up with disturbed sleep.

‘I think one of the biggest mistakes people can make when purchasing a pillow is not choosing the right feel and comfort for them,’ says Olivia Shykles, Filled Bedding Buyer at John Lewis. ‘This can result in an interrupted night's sleep plumping pillows and waking up in a lot of discomfort.

‘We find people often select a middle-of-the-road medium feel as this can appear like the safe choice, but if it's not the right feel for your ideal comfort needs it could be a waste of money.’

Think about how well you sleep generally, and when you sleep best. The pillow will be a big factor in how well you sleep, so try to consider what pillow you’ve used when you’ve slept the best and go for that kind of firmness.

‘With so many pillows out there it can feel like a bit of a minefield, that's something we are trying to correct at John Lewis,’ says Olivia from John Lewis. ‘Keep an eye out for our new pillow scale to make this part of the shopping journey much clearer.’

2. Opting for the wrong filling for you

Different pillow fillings do different jobs, and finding the right pillow filling for you is absolutely paramount in your journey to a good night’s sleep.

There are a few factors that will dictate the best pillow filling for you. This includes your sleeping style (we will come on to this in a moment), how warm you like to be when you sleep and any allergies you might have.

‘Different pillow fills (feather, down, memory foam, synthetic) offer varying levels of support and comfort,’ says Karen Thomas, Head of Design at Marks and Spencer. ‘Natural feather fillings are generally softer than synthetic ranges and are lightweight. Additionally, some materials can trigger allergies for certain individuals.’

3. Not trying before you buy

We live in a busy world, where adding things to an online basket is a quick and efficient way to get shopping done. But I’d counsel that buying your bedding cannot be done solely online, it is worth doing a little in person research.

‘As much as I love online shopping there are some decisions that shouldn’t be made on a screen particularly when it comes to comfort,’ says Olivia from John Lewis. ‘I would always recommend visiting a branch where possible and speaking to one of our expert Partners about exactly what you are looking for in your new pillow.

‘Then a bit like if you were buying a mattress make sure you are taking a pillow to test on a bed,’ says Olivia. It’s wise to choose a mattress in store that’s similar to your one at home, to see how the two interact.

‘Don’t feel self-conscious about it, spending just 10 minutes testing out a pillow in the position you sleep in could be the difference in making the wrong decision. For hygiene purposes it's not an easy product to return if you're not happy,’ explains Olivia.

And one final tip from Olivia on testing pillows: ‘One to remember is like a new pair of shoes, sometimes we need time to adjust to a new pillow. I would say it can take at least seven days to allow a new pillow to settle in and for your body to get used to it.’

4. Not considering your sleeping position

One man’s perfect pillow is another man’s torture device. And a lot of this comes down to your sleeping position. Side sleepers, back sleepers and front sleepers all need different pillows to keep the aches and pains at bay.

‘The position you sleep in can often connect to the feel of the pillow you should be selecting so if this is not considered it's likely you could end up with an uncomfortable pillow,’ says Olivia from John Lewis.

‘Go for a firm pillow if you drift onto your side,’ says Olivia. ‘They're ideal for side sleepers as they provide sufficient support to the neck, back, and shoulders – keeping the spine aligned and preventing hunching and a painful neck.’ Memory foam and latex pillows are often the best pillows for side sleepers.

‘Medium firmness pillows are great for snoozing on your back as they provide enough support for the neck without affecting the alignment of your spine,’ says Olivia from John Lewis. Feather and down is ideal for back sleepers as they cuddle your head as you sleep. ‘[Medium pillows] are also ideal for sleepers with flexible comfort preferences or those who change positions throughout the night. A majority of people will find these pillows both comfortable and supportive.’

‘Soft and lower profile pillows are the best option if you are out like a light laying on your front,’ says Olivia. You won’t find your head at awkward angles or wake up with a sore neck if you sleep on your front and have a soft, low-profile pillow.

5. Undervaluing how important pillows are

If you’ve invested in the best mattress you can afford, you’d be doing it a huge disservice to not invest in decent pillows too – yet people do this all the time. And even if you haven’t shelled out for a new mattress, you should spend as much as you can afford on pillows.

‘Trying to save money on a pillow purchase can be another mistake people make when shopping for a pillow,’ says Olivia from John Lewis.

‘Premium pillows, particularly those with specialist fillings can feel like quite an investment but selecting the wrong one can result in not only an uncomfortable night's sleep but unnecessary repeat purchases,’ says Olivia.

6. Choosing the wrong-shaped pillow

There is more than one shape of pillow to consider when choosing the right pillow for you. There is of course the traditional standard (sometimes called Oxford) pillow that tends to measure 50x75cm. But there is also so much more.

‘You can’t go wrong with the classic standard pillow but you could also consider square (sometimes called continental) pillows,’ says Karen from Marks and Spencer. ‘They are great for sitting up in bed and styling. King size pillows are another consideration, designed extra wide for bigger beds. Or perhaps it's something more specialist you are looking for, like a body pillow or a V-shape.’

7. Ignoring the care instructions

Being able to properly wash your pillow according to its care instructions is important. So check you can give your pillow the TLC it deserves.

A well-cared for pillow will last longer, be more hygienic and will help keep any allergens at bay. So if it’s dry-clean only, get ready to commit. If it requires air drying, make sure you have the space.

FAQs

How do you know if a pillow is good?

A good night’s sleep is the hallmark of a good pillow. If you’re waking up pain free, and not being woken in the night to rearrange your pillow, you’re probably onto a good thing. As Olivia says above, go into a shop and try the pillows out to see what feels comfortable for you, and the way you sleep.

A pillow shouldn’t be able to be folded in half, and should have a good spring-back if you put your hand on it. Regularly do a quick check for signs that your pillow needs replacing.

How much difference does a good pillow make?

A good pillow can make a huge amount of difference to your life. The right pillow can reduce aches and pains and improve the quality of your sleep.

‘On average we spend approximately a third of our lives sleeping, so selecting the right pillow is a decision that should be taken seriously,’ says Olivia from John Lewis. ‘It can be an expensive purchase but it's an item that you use everyday so worth investing as much as you can in.’

Our favourite pillows

When it comes to bedding, we often focus on buying the fluffiest pillows, the softest sheets, the cosiest duvet, and the covers that nail our bedroom’s aesthetic. But one bedding staple that is often barely an afterthought is the pillow protector.

You might have heard pillow protectors be mentioned in passing or even inadvertently own a couple without giving much thought to the role they play in your sleep and the longevity of your pillows. But if you’ve splurged on the best pillows money can buy, could you be limiting their lifespan and impacting your sleep by not adding a pillow protector?

We spoke with experts to break down what pillow protectors really are, their advantages, cost, and whether they’re worth adding to your bedding lineup so that you can avoid costly pillow-buying mistakes in the future.

What is a pillow protector?

A pillow protector does what it says on the tin, it prevents your pillow from succumbing to wear and tear and is not designed to be used without a pillowcase, rather it should be seen as providing an extra barrier.

Robert Lancaster Gaye, co-founder of Tielle Love Luxury, has provided bed linen to luxury hotels for over 30 years. He explains why 5-star hotels in particular always opt for pillow protectors, ‘The unsightly yellow and brown stains that you can find on pillows at home are caused by dribble – we don’t like to talk about it, but we all do it! The most luxurious and famous five-star hotels can’t risk staining on the pillows in their properties, so they use a pillow protector,’ Robert says.

And if it’s good enough for super-luxe hotels, then perhaps it could elevate your bedding game at home too.

What are the benefits of a pillow protector?

It's not just slumber-induced drool this extra layer of bedding protects against, there are a couple of additional benefits as director of buying at Dreams Beds Fabio Perrotta explains:

1. Healthier sleep environment: 'Pillow protectors act as a barrier to prevent allergens, such as pollen and dust, from reaching your pillow or disrupting your sleep.'
2. Prolonging the life of your pillows: 'A protector acts as protection to the pillow beneath, reducing the effects of wear, discolouration due to sweat and moisture, and the build-up of allergens.’

How much does a pillow protector cost on average?

Pillow protectors start around £5 and can go up to £30 depending on the brand and materials used. Since they’re designed to not only help us sleep better by cutting down on allergens but also reduce how often pillows need to be replaced by protecting them from drool, natural oils and sweat, the investment vs payoff is often worth it.

What should you look for in a pillow protector?

To make sure we’re making the right purchase and avoiding unnecessary pillow-buying mistakes, we ask Sleep.8’s UK Country Manager Musi Chayla for advice on how to choose the right pillow protector. She tells us there are three things to look out for in particular:

1. ‘Choose hypoallergenic materials: Opt for pillow protectors made from hypoallergenic materials to create a barrier against dust mites, allergens, and bacteria. This is especially important for people with allergies or sensitive skin.
2. ‘Waterproof for added protection: Consider waterproof pillow protectors to safeguard against spills, sweat, and other moisture. These are especially useful for those who experience night sweats or have kids.
3. ‘Easy to wash: A good pillow protector should be machine washable. Regular washing can help maintain hygiene and freshness, prolonging the life of your pillow.’

Where can you buy pillow protectors?

Most online and high street shops that are the best places to buy bedding now also offer a range of pillow protectors. Here are our top picks:

FAQs

Are pillow protectors necessary in the UK?

Here in the UK our weather is so changeable, with four seasons in one day not being unheard of, and conditions within our homes can be just as variable. At times our bedrooms can be hot and humid only to be chilly and damp the very next day. Pillow protectors can help with both scenarios by cooling your pillow in the heat and protecting against moisture when the colder months bring condensation and damp.

But, no matter what country you live in, they can work out to be a worthwhile investment. Stephen Goknel, a sleep expert and the founder of Luff Sleep, explains, ‘The most important reason to always have a protective casing on your pillow, between the stuffing and the pillowcase, is to prevent bacteria growing and multiplying within the body of your pillow. Having that extra washable layer between your head and the pillow makes all the difference.’

Are you supposed to put a pillowcase over a pillow protector?

Pillowcases and pillow protectors are two very different things as Fabio Perrotta from Dreams Beds explains, ‘A pillow protector does not replace a pillowcase, in fact they serve quite different purposes. Most pillow protectors are discrete, so you would place the pillow protector over your pillow and then put the pillowcase over the top as normal. Where pillowcases serve the simple purpose of covering the physical pillow, pillow protectors are specifically designed as a barrier from sweat, allergens and frequent wear.

So if you're investing in a quality pillow take note and consider investing in a pillow protector.

I’ve reviewed dozens and dozens of pillows as a sleep writer. I’ve tested synthetic pillows, natural-fibre pillows; pillows that cost less than a tenner and the most expensive pillows on the market. Over this time I’ve learned a lot about what makes for a good pillow.

Before testing the best pillows money can buy, I will admit I often went for whatever was available, cheapest and ideally came in a two-pack. Then I’d wonder why I had neck ache or woke up in the night to find my pillow as flat as a pancake.

So as someone who’s seen the light and knows how to pick the best pillows, I’m willing to share my findings with you. Here’s what I’d say you need to know before buying a pillow – and the things I wish I’d known years ago.

1. Different pillows suit different sleep styles

Before becoming a sleep writer, I was ignorant to how pretty much everyone else in the world sleeps. I thought everyone slept like me – on their left side all night long. Oh how wrong I was. There are side, back and stomach sleepers – and of course those who chop and change. And different pillows suit different sleepers.

‘A soft feel [pillow] is an ideal pick if you sleep on your front and like to scrunch your pillow at night,’ says Olivia Shykles, Filled Bedding Buyer at John Lewis. ‘A medium [pillow] is an ideal pick if you sleep on your back and prefer supportive comfort whereas firm offers great support for your neck, taking the pressure off your back and shoulders.

‘Other factors to consider are the pillow against the mattress, as a firm pillow won’t work as well with a soft mattress,’ says Olivia.

The filling is a big factor in how firm or soft your pillow is. Which leads us neatly on to my next point…

2. The fillings in your pillow are hugely important

The filling in your pillow will dictate pretty much everything about your pillow. How firm it is, how high the profile, what it looks like on your bed, how much it sags, how to care for it… the list goes on. So finding the right pillow filling for you is incredibly important.

‘Filling type – meaning natural, synthetic or foam – is the next decision that needs to be made,’ says Olivia. ‘Each has a range of benefits that may make them more suitable for you.’

‘Different pillow fills (feather, down, memory foam, synthetic) offer varying levels of support and comfort,’ says Karen Thomas, Head of Design at Marks and Spencer. ‘Natural feather fillings are generally softer than synthetic ranges and are lightweight.’

Traditional feather and down pillows are great for offering a snug feeling around your head and are good for helping you regulate your temperature. You can also fluff them up and create a nice aesthetic for your bed when it's made. But feather and down tend to be a match made in hell for allergy sufferers as they trap moisture. You’ll need to wash them regularly, so make sure the pillows aren’t high-maintenance if you do plump for feathers and have allergies. Front sleepers often find the softer feather and down pillows good.

Synthetic pillows – hollow fibre and microfibre – are great for easy care, and you can also often choose between firmness. They also can be more affordable than natural-fibre pillows. However, they can overheat you as they’re not super breathable.

Back sleepers might find synthetic pillows good, and also wool pillows – which also have a medium firmness. Wool is a fantastic pillow filling as it is temperature regulating (you won’t overheat) and naturally antimicrobial and hypoallergenic. They are, however, a bit more expensive.

Memory foam and latex pillows offer more support – great if you have aches and pains. However, they are pretty firm and often have a low profile. They might not look like the fluffy dream on your bed. Side sleepers tend to get on well with memory foam pillows.

3. Some pillows can actively help you stay cool (and some will overheat you)

I’m somewhat of a Goldilocks when it comes to the temperature I like to sleep at. I hate being cold, and struggle to fall asleep if I’m even remotely chilly. However, I can overheat at times. I previously thought duvets were the only factor in helping you stay at the right temperature at night but pillows and mattresses have a big part to play too.

As alluded to above, different fillings in pillows will have different levels of breathability. Some fibres like wool and feathers are naturally great at helping you regulate your temperature through the night. They also wick away sweat (grim, but necessary).

And there are cooling pillows – usually synthetic pillows – that are designed to cool you down. This section of the pillow market includes lots of different styles of cooling from cooling-gel pads inbuilt into it, to a cool touch surface, and vents to allow free air flow inside the pillow.

4. Fluffy pillows doesn’t always equate to them being good

Before I was a sleep journalist I used to think the hallmark of a good pillow was it looking plump and fluffy on my bed. But when I had these fluffy pillows I was waking up with a sore neck. It turns out while these cloud-like pillows look great, and are a dream for some people, they are a nightmare for others who need more support.

‘While we all love an aesthetic décor pillow, it’s important that the pillows we sleep on prioritise quality and comfort,’ says Karen from Marks and Spencer.

Style isn’t really the thing to focus on when choosing a pillow. Instead, find a pillow that keeps your spine aligned all night long and provides you with the right level of support.

5. Some pillows are bad for allergies

allergy-freeI’ve lived my life allergy-free. I didn’t ever consider whether pillows are hypoallergenic – or even what that meant. I will admit that part of me suspected ‘hypoallergenic pillows’ might’ve been a marketing plot. Oh, how wrong I was. I now have a child who is prone to allergies, and dust-mites is one of the allergens that affects them the most. I am now on board with the hypoallergenic pillows.

Some pillows are hypoallergenic or naturally great for allergy sufferers. Wool and latex repel dust mites, which are one of the main causes of house allergies in the UK. And some synthetic pillows are designed to be hypoallergenic too. You ideally want pillows you can easily launder, to allow you to blitz dust and dust mites out of the pillows.

6. Don’t ignore the care instructions

I never looked at the care instructions for my pillows before I wrote about sleep. I thought the extent of care was stuffing a pillow into a pillow case, and sending them to the dry cleaners every so often. Don’t be like former me.

‘A pillow that can't be washed or properly cared for will accumulate dust mites, bacteria, and sweat over time, impacting sleep hygiene,’ say Karen from Marks and Spencer. ‘All M&S pillows, except for memory foam, are machine washable, and memory foam pillows come with removable, washable covers.’

Care instructions on pillows need to be followed. It will extend the lifespan of your pillow, and hopefully help you sleep better too. So when you’re picking a pillow, check the care instructions and make sure you are going to be able to wash your pillows. Some are more high-maintenance than others.

7. The lifespan of a pillow is relatively short

Mattresses show signs of being at the end of their lifespan, and so do pillows. I thought I just needed to change a pillow when it became flattened, but that’s not true. And, rather embarrassingly, I also thought pillows would last for decades. Also not true.

‘Many people may not realise that over time, pillows can degrade, losing their support and comfort, which can lead to neck or back pain,’ says Karen from M&S.

Pillows tend to last from 18 months to three years, although sometimes they can last longer. Down and feather pillows tend to need to be replaced around every 1-3 years unless you really take care of them. Polyester pillows also tend to last between 1-2 years.

Signs your pillow needs replacing include it doesn’t spring back when folded in half, you’re waking up with a sore neck or back on the regular or it’s lumpy.

What pillow should you buy?

If you're still feeling a little overwhelmed by the amount of pillow choice out their, here are three of our favourite pillows to pick from.

There’s a wide range of pillow fillings out there, and each has its pros and cons. When it comes to the best filling for a pillow, it's helpful to know just how many types are out there. Some of the most popular fillings are feather, foam and wool, but that's just the tip of the iceberg.

Finding the best pillow for you involves understanding not just what the fillings are, bit what filling suits you specifically. Just as with choosing your perfect mattress and duvet, everyone's needs and preferences are different, so we've broken down each of the types of pillow fillings that are available and who they are best suited to and why, to ensure you can pick the perfect pillow.

What types of fillings for a pillow are there?

‘Filling types in pillows can be categorised into natural which covers your duck and goose feather and down blends, silk, wool and even latex,’ says Olivia Shykles, filled bedding buyer at John Lewis.

‘You then have synthetics or polyester fillings, although this may sound simple, depending on how it's made can give a variety of different feels and price points. Last but not least you have your foams which are slightly more specialist and can lend themselves to more unique shaped pillows.’

You’ve come here for some expert intel on pillow fillings, so let’s do a deep dive…

Down and feathers

Down and feather pillows include duck down and goose down. Across the board, whether your feather hails from a duck or goose, this type of pillow is thought of as premium.

Feather and down are great insulators, keeping you at the right temperature all night. The feathers trap warm air in, without overheating you.

This type of fill is also considered pretty comfortable for most sleepers. Feathers and down will contour to your head, gently supporting you and keeping your spine aligned as you sleep. They’re also a lightweight and durable pillow filling. ‘The proportion of down adds softness – down is the best quality, a mix of feather and down offers a good value compromise,’ says Olivia from John Lewis.

However, down and feathers do trap moisture, which can build up over time meaning it can exacerbate allergies, so making sure you know how to wash feather pillows properly is key.

They’re also obviously not vegan friendly – there are concerns over animal welfare in the production of feather and down products, so always check the provenance. Also, down and feather pillows can be pretty expensive.

Wool

Wool is another natural fibre found in some pillows. Wool is excellent at regulating your temperature, and wicking away sweat. It’s also naturally hypoallergenic, antimicrobial and naturally fire retardant so wool pillows are less likely to be treated with any concerning chemicals.

However, wool isn’t for everyone. They’re less fluffy than down and synthetic pillows and provide slightly less support. Indeed, the filling needs fluffing every now and then. They’re also not suitable for vegans.

Polyester

Polyester is a man-made fibre, and is brilliantly durable. Similarly to choosing the best mattress for allergies, those with allergies might prefer polyester to natural fill pillows because they’re often hypoallergenic, and can be washed on hot washes. This means more of those dust mites can be blitzed – dust mites are one of the main causes of allergies in the home.

Polyester pillows are also lightweight, and can contour to the shape of your head, giving you lots of support. There’s a huge range of polyester pillows out there, meaning you can find something to suit you. And happily they’re pretty affordable.

However, polyester pillows aren’t for everyone – some people find themselves overheating when they use them. They aren’t known for being very breathable. And the filling can also clump together – especially after washing.

Memory foam

Memory foam mattresses are extremely supportive, and the same goes for them in pillow form. People with bad necks and backs often find them the best type of filling for them. Memory foam is activated by your body heat and pressure, and moulds to the shape of your body.

They’re also great for those with allergies – memory foam is so dense that dust mites struggle to permeate it. ‘Memory foams are great if you are looking for more specialist treatments and finishes, like cooling and temperature regulating,’ adds Olivia from John Lewis.

But memory foam pillows aren’t for everyone. Not everyone likes how dense they are, and they don’t look fluffy on your bed. Older memory foam can be quite bad at overheating too – although modern memory foams have reduced this issue.

Latex

Latex pillows aren’t super common, but there are lots of benefits to this pillow filling. They’re a sustainable choice, as latex comes from a renewable source. And they’re durable too, meaning you won’t need to replace them too regularly. They’re also naturally cooling and hypoallergenic, and breathable too. ‘Latex pillows are great if you’re looking for more specialist support,’ says Olivia from John Lewis.

Some people don’t get on with latex pillows though. They are very firm, which isn’t for everyone. And they can be pricey. It hopefully goes without saying, but they’re not suitable for those with latex allergies.

Hybrid

As with hybrid mattresses, hybrid pillows look to bridge the gap between natural and synthetic fibres. These harness the breathability and softness of natural fibres, such as bamboo or cotton covers, with the support of memory foam.

But, much like memory foam and latex, these pillows are more firm and dense. They can’t be fluffed up, and might look a little less inviting on your bed than down or synthetic-fibre pillows.

Our favourite pillows

How to choose the best pillow filling for you

‘Choosing the best pillow all lies in what kind of sleeper you are, are you a luxury seeker, sleepy head, sink-in snoozer or a twister and turner, and do you sleep on your back, front, or side?,’ says Sally Bonner, sleep expert at Silentnight.

There are a few factors you need to think about when choosing the right pillow filling for you. The first is your sleeping position. When it comes to the best pillow for side sleepers, typically memory foam really works to maintain spinal alignment, whereas front sleepers might want a low-profile pillow such as wool or down and feathers. Back sleepers need a mid-height pillow that will provide support without putting pressure on their neck.

You also need to consider if you have allergies. If you are prone to allergies, go for something hypoallergenic – synthetic, wool and latex are all brilliant for this.

And of course take in your own ethical considerations. If you’re vegan, you’ll want to go for a product that hasn’t had animals involved in its production. If sustainability is a big factor for you, then look for pillows made from renewable sources and with traceable fibres where applicable.

What is the best pillow filling for hot sleepers?

If you’re a hot sleeper, you’re going to want to opt for something breathable and temperature regulating to help you stay cool in bed. As we’ve already explored, there’s plenty of options out there.

‘People often gravitate to pillows with natural fillings if they feel warm at night as these are classically more breathable helping us to keep cooler as we sleep,’ says Olivia from John Lewis. ‘However there are many clever specialist synthetic pillows with engineered fibres to make them more breathable and treatments designed to target temperature and moisture management as we sleep.’

‘The Silentnight Airmax Pillow is a great option as it features mesh sides for increased airflow to promote breathability and reduce overheating,’ says sleep expert Sally.

What is the best pillow filling for allergy sufferers?

Allergy sufferers will do well to search out hypoallergenic pillows.

‘I would say look to a synthetic pillow or something with a specialist treatment if you are an allergy sufferer as these are often targeting the problem directly and can be washed at higher temperatures,’ says Olivia from John Lewis.

As well as synthetic fibres, wool and bamboo are both naturally hypoallergenic – and latex is brilliant for allergy sufferers too.

What is the best pillow filling for easy-care?

The easiest care pillows are probably synthetic polyester pillows. They are easy to wash and dry, and are durable and pretty forgiving too.

‘The majority of our pillows across natural and synthetic fills are washable, however feather and down needs to be dried with care which can be tricky to do at home. So I would recommend a synthetic fill pillow if you are looking for something really easy to care for,’ says Olivia from John Lewis.

‘Pillows filled with microfibre are perfect for easy-care, as this material is machine washable and fast drying,’ says Silentnight’s Sally. ‘Being able to regularly machine wash your pillows will help them to remain fresh for longer and extend their life.’

With all this info in hand you should be able to choose the perfect pillow to help you meet your sleep goals night after night.

Temperature-regulating, customisable, and supportive – the Emma Premium Foam Pillow certainly markets itself as having all the hallmarks of one of the best pillows around.

Plus, that height-adjustable three-layer design means the brand promises it will be 'the one' for you whether you're a side, back, or front sleeper. A triple threat promise that it’s hard not to be impressed by. However, the Emma Premium Pillow is over £100, which does seem a considerable sum, for a pillow.

Is it worth the investment? Our Emma Premium Foam Pillow review puts it to the test to find out. Here’s our reviewer with everything you need to know.

Emma Premium Foam Pillow review

Specifications

• RRP: £115
• Construction materials: polyester, elastane, foam
• Product size: H adjustable x W70 x D40cm
• Care instructions: Cover is machine washable at 60°C
• Manufacturer sleep trial: 30 nights

How I tested

My sleep stats:

• As a 6 foot tall side sleeper I tend to need a high loft pillow that matches my shoulder width in order to keep my head and neck well aligned
• Previously prefered to sleep with two firm pillows and on an incline due to allergies (hayfever, dust) and breathing problems
• Can get neck and back pain if pillows aren’t firm enough

Construction

Whilst some customisable pillows like the Simba Hybrid Pillow and its 'nanocube' fill (that's a lot of little blue foam cubes to the uninitiated) can be a bit fiddly to adjust, Emma has kept it really simple with the construction of the height-adjustable Emma Premium Foam Pillow.

On the outside, you have the knitted polyester cover which then unzips to reveal three foam inserts that you can take out or add back in to adjust the pillow height.

There's a grey foam layer and two white foam layers. Both the grey foam, which by my measurements is around 4cm high, and the thinnest and softest white foam layer, which I measure to be 5cm in depth, are domed. The middle foam layer which measures approximately 3cm high is more rectangular in shape and made from HRX foam layer (HRX stands for High Resiliency Extra).

The dark grey foam layer, which feels very squidgy and dense compared to the lighter white foam layers, is made from 'ThermoSync foam'. Emma doesn't give much detail about this material on the product page of the brand's website, beyond saying that it's temperature regulating.

However, ThermoSync foam is also used in the construction of the Emma Luxe Cooling Mattress, and our review of this mattress discovered that temperature regulation is achieved by infusing the foam with graphite particles which help to absorb body heat. So I assume this is also the case with the ThermoSync foam used in the Emma Premium Pillow.

There's then a layer of HRX Foam (HRX stands for High Resiliency Extra), and a layer of softer foam.

What type of sleeper does it suit?

The customisation available with the height-adjustable Emma Premium Foam Pillow is its main USP, as you can alter the loft of this pillow according to your sleep style.

As a side sleeper with wide shoulders, I’m always after as much elevation as possible, so I preferred sleeping with all of the foam inserts inside. That's because the best pillows for side sleepers are those that keep the neck in alignment with your spine, so side sleepers need a pillow that's high enough to match the width of one of their shoulders.

However, a back or front sleeper might want to take out the middle foam section, leaving the grey Thermosync foam and the softest foam layer for a less elevated pillow.

Some might just find – as I did – that it can be hard to squeeze the foam inserts back into the pillow after taking them out as they tend to stick to each other rather than gliding in and out smoothly.

How comfortable is it?

As with any pillow, comfort is a subjective thing, and one person's 'just right' is another's 'not firm enough'.

This isn’t one of those big, soft, down-filled pillows you get in 5-star hotel rooms. Foam just doesn’t have the pillowy softness that you get from a down fill.

However, as 6ft side sleeper with fairly wide shoulders I like a dense pillow that has enough height to keep my head well raised rather than dipping down. That hotel-like, sink-in sort of pillow doesn't suit me as I don’t feel like those pillows prop up my head enough or make me feel supported when I sleep.

Overall, I think the Emma Premium Foam Pillow is definitely in Goldilocks territory – not too soft and not too firm. It offers cushioning and support and has enough customisation options to suit front, back, and most side sleepers. The only caveat being that side sleepers with a wider build might still need a bit more height than the Emma Premium pillow offers.

To put it into perspective against other premium pillows I've tested, the Simba Hybrid Firm Pillow can be customised to be higher than the Emma Premium pillow, which means your head is more elevated. That means the Simba option may well suit side sleepers with wider shoulders like me better. I also liked the firmness the Simba option offers.

In my opinion, the Emma Premium Foam Pillow is a middle ground between the Simba Hybrid Firm Pillow and the original Simba Hybrid Pillow.

The Emma Premium offers more support than the Simba Hybrid Pillow, which is softer and more down-like. This makes the Simba Hybrid pillow a lot less elevated, so it wasn't the right fit for me, although it remains a popular choice with back sleepers or those side sleepers with narrower shoulders.

How breathable is it?

Bedding that features synthetic fillings can be prone to making us overheat at night, as synthetic materials don't offer the same breathability as natural fibres.

However, thankfully Emma addresses this probem with the Thermosync foam layer that's designed to improve temperature regulation.

Whatever adjustments you make to the pillow's inner foam layers, you just want to make sure that you keep this insert as the top layer inside your pillow so that it's next to your head.

This Thermosync layer works in tandem with a knitted, textured pillow cover designed to allow to air circulate through it so that the heat from your head can dissipate.

While any cooling effect perhaps wasn't extremely noticeable, I still found these features worked well during a recent heatwave, keeping my face fairly cool as I slept and preventing any uncomfortable night sweats. It’s always a certified selling point when the cool side of the pillow remains just that.

Is it good for those with allergies?

Foam and synthetic fill pillows are generally considered a safer bet for people with allergies than down or feather pillows. That's because some down pillows can harbor dust mites, mould, and other allergens besides the down itself.

That’s not to say that dust can’t build up with synthetic or foam pillows either, but with a cover that is machine washable at 60°c you’ll be able to prevent dust and dirt build up on the Emma Premium Foam pillow which should help with any allergies you might have.

I usually struggle with allergies keeping me awake at night, and although I can't entirely put it down to the pillow alone, I did find that during my month trying out the Emma Premium Pillow my allergies were subdued.

Care instructions

Like most foam pillows, you can’t machine wash the foam inserts, but you can still unzip the Emma Premium pillow's cover and pop it in the washing machine.

Emma states that the cover is machine washable up to 60°c, which is a pretty high temperature compared to similar pillows with removable covers.

Verdict

The Emma Premium Foam Pillow's versatility will no doubt suit a range of sleepers, with its customisable height potentially allowing you to create the exact right pillow height for your preferred sleep position.

I found this pillow was a good middle ground – not too soft, not too firm, not too low, not too high – offering a good mix of support and cushioning. And, the fact that any overheating has been addressed with the layer of Thermosync foam is good news for hot sleepers.

However, that £115 RRP is definite an investment. That said, Emma does offer a 30 night sleep trial on the Emma Premium Foam Pillow, which gives you time to test it out and find out if one of its three adjustable heights is for you. Plus, if you can snap it up when there are bedding deals on offer, you might be able to pay a lot less.

For its price point, it's just a shame that none of the synthetic materials used in this pillow's construction appear to be derived from recycled sources, and, as synthetic materials are generally non-biodegradable and can contribute to environmental pollution, this may not be the pillow for you if you're after an eco-friendly option.

On the flip side, synthetic pillow fillings are popular with allergy sufferers as dust mites aren't a fan of these plastic-derived materials – I certainly didn't notice this pillow triggered any of my allergies whilst I slept on it – and the fact the exterior is machine washable at 60°c will be a big plus point for some.

All in all, I think this pillow is a good all-rounder, and if you're struggling to find a pillow that quite nails it for you in the comfort stakes then the Emma Premium Pillow is well worth a test out.

Would you spend over £100 on a pillow? Fans of the Simba Hybrid Pillow certainly would, with this pillow now amassing over 25,000 reviews on the Simba website and achieving an average customer rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Why is it so popular? Well, its cult following largely comes down to the fact that this pillow is customisable. It's filled with what the brand dubs 'Nanocubes' (more on those later) which you can add or subtract from the pillow to raise or lower the pillow's height according to your sleep preferences.

Pillow height is a key factor in finding the best pillow for your sleep style as it's the make-or-break component that determines whether a pillow creates good spinal alignment.

Ideally, whether you sleep on your front, side, or back, you want a pillow that supports the head and neck so that there's one continuous line between your spine and the crown of your head. A pillow that lifts your head too high or allows it to drop too low will form 'kinks' in your neck that can lead to neck pain, so finding the right pillow height for your sleep style, and your body frame, is the key to creating the best position for a good night's sleep.

An adjustable pillow fill seems like an obvious solution to this problem, but it's a bit of a rarity in the pillow world, which is what makes the Simba Hybrid Pillow so popular. But how would this pillow fare in practice? Myself and my partner put it the test to find out.

Simba Hybrid Pillow review

Specifications

• Construction materials: Cotton and polyester
• Product size: H adjustable x W70 x D45cm
• Care instructions: Cover is machine washable at 40°C. Tumble dry on low heat.
• Manufacturer sleep trial: N/A

How I tested

My sleep stats:

• As a 6 foot tall side sleeper I tend to need a high loft pillow that matches my shoulder width in order to keep my head and neck well aligned
• Prefer to sleep with two firm pillows and on an incline due to allergies (hayfever, dust) and breathing problems
• Can get neck and back pain if pillows aren’t firm enough

My partner's sleep stats:

• A 5ft8 side or front sleeper who tends to use two pillows when side sleeping

Construction

The Simba Hybrid pillow is constructed from two main layers, a cotton outer quilted with cushioning microfibre that features a breathable mesh around all four sides, and an inner pillow that unzips and is filled with lightweight foam 'nanocubes' (which we’ll tell you all about in the next section).

The outer cotton layer comes from Better Cotton Initiative sources, which promote better standards in farming for workers and the environment, and one side of this cotton outer is equipped with 'Stratos® finish', something the brand describes as 'cool-touch' technology which aims to deliver a cooler sleep.

Unique selling points

The main factor that makes the Simba Hybrid pillow stand out from the crowd is what the brand dubs its 'Nanocube® technology'.

In practice, this is basically lots of little blue foam cubes that are housed within an inner pillowcase within the pillow. This pillowcase can be unzipped which allows you take out or add more Nanocubes to your pillow in order to customise its height to your exact preferences. Need more loft? Add more cubes. Want the pillow to feel softer and be lower in height? Take those cubes out.

This seems like a bit of an obvious idea once you think about it, but very few pillows offer this feature, and as pillow height is a key factor in finding the best pillow for your sleep style, it makes the Simba Hybrid pillow a very versatile option that suits a lot of sleepers.

Now, the process of actually adding or removing the Nanocubes can be a bit fiddly and you’ll likely drop a load of cubes on the floor like this reviewer did. Having said that, the pillow does comes with a little bag designed for storing your unused cubes, and once you've got the pillow to your exact requirements, you shouldn't need to alter it too often.

What type of sleeper does it suit?

A key factor in the Simba Hybrid Pillow's popularity is that its customisable height makes it suitable for a wide range of sleepers.

A front sleeper looking for a thinner pillow just needs to take out a large chunk of Nanocubes in order to drop the height, while a back sleeper is likely to want to remove a few Nanocubes to turn it into a mid-loft pillow, and a side sleeper can stuff the pillow full to raise their head as high as they need to for the neck and spine to be in good alignment.

You can also buy extra Nanocubes if needed to make the pillow really full for a firmer feel.

However, in practice, I turned out to be someone for whom the Simba Hybrid Pillow isn't quite suitable. I'm a side sleeper with a 6 foot frame and fairly wide shoulders which means I need a high, dense pillow that lifts my head in line with my neck. So, for me, even with all the Nanocubes stuffed into the inner compartment, I still found this pillow too low and too soft for side sleeping as it allowed my head to sink down too low.

Luckily, Simba also offers the Simba Firm Hybrid Pillow, which I loved, and which is designed specifically for us side-sleeping firm pillow lovers who need more height.

That said, my partner, who is a side sleeper with a smaller frame, found that the Simba Hybrid Pillow was one of the most comfortable pillows she's slept on. She's usually a two pillow side sleeper, and found that with the Simba Hybrid Pillow under her head she could sleep with just one pillow for the first time ever.

How comfortable is it?

This is a squishy pillow which soft pillow fans will adore, however, if you like a firmer feel then you may find the Simba Hybrid pillow too soft.

As mentioned, I'm a side sleeper who is firmly in the 'firm pillow' camp and I found I sank in to this pillow too much. However, my partner loved the feel and found the squishy, sink-in feel akin to that of 5-star hotel pillow.

Unlike a feather and down pillow, we also found that the Nanocubes meant the Simba Hybrid Pillow retained its shape well, so there was no need to keep plumping it to get the pillow back into shape.

How breathable is it?

This is predominantly a synthetic pillow that uses polyester microfibre and foam cubes for cushioning. As both of these materials are forms of plastic, that could mean that the pillow lacks breathability as synthetic materials can tend to reflect heat back towards the sleeper leading to a hot and sweaty head if you sleep warm.

However, Simba uses various technologies to combat overheating. Firstly, the pillow's cover is made from cotton, a natural material that offers better breathability than a polyester cover would, and one side of this outer cover also features Simba's 'Stratos® technology' which is designed to offer better heat diffusion.

Secondly, Simba says that the foam Nanocubes used in the interior help airflow compared to solid foam, and better airflow means heat can dissipate away from the head.

Thirdly, the mesh border around the pillow is also designed to help air to circulate.

In practice, I certainly found this pillow more breathable and cool than your ordinary synthetic pillow. Although I did find I needed to make sure I was sleeping with the side that has the 'Stratos' technology next to my head.

However, I found the natural materials in the Woolroom Deluxe Washable Wool Pillow I usually sleep on to be marginally more cooling and breathable, and our tester who usually sleeps on a feather and down pillow found the Simba Hybrid Pillow definitely reflected back more head heat in comparison.

Is it good for those with allergies?

As a synthetic pillow, this is certainly going to help those with allergies who wish to stay away from a feather fill. The cover is also machine washable at 40°C which will help prevent dust and dirt build up.

I myself have a number of allergies, including hayfever, which were kept firmly at bay while using the Simba Hybrid Pillow.

On a separate note, foam can often be made out of harsh chemicals but the squishy foam Nanocubes in the Simba Hybrid Pillow are certified to CertiPUR® requirements, so they contain no heavy metals like mercury or lead. This won’t eliminate all the bad things in the air inside your home, but it will help you avoid bringing more into your home.

Will it help with snoring?

Natural back sleepers are usually the worst culprits when it comes to snoring. Lying on your back makes the base of your tongue and soft palate collapse to the back wall of your throat, causing a vibrating sound during sleep.

Sleeping on your side may help prevent this, and the Simba Hybrid Pillow is a good option for people looking to switch from a back to a side sleeping position to aid their snoring as you can adjust the height of the pillow to your needs – as long as you don't have particularly wide shoulders to accomodate.

So effectively what is really going to help sleepers of all positions when it comes to snoring issues is the adjustability offered by the Simba Hybrid Pillow.

Care instructions

As mentioned in the section about allergies, the pillow cover is machine washable at 40°C. However, this is only the cover – not the inside of the pillow. It’s also worth noting that the pillow cover can also be tumble dried on a low heat.

Verdict

The Simba Hybrid Pillow is an investment, and at first it's hard to see how it's going to justify its price tag. But, once you realise the versatility that's offered by its adjustable height, its high price tag becomes a little more palatable.

My partner isn't the only one to love this pillow, it's also proved a hit with multiple members of the Ideal Home team who each praise its customisable fill and are fans of its softer feel.

If you want a synthetic pillow because of allergies or because you want to avoid the animal byproducts used in a wool or feather and down pillow, then this is also one of the few synthetic pillows to really make efforts towards creating a cooler and more breathable sleep.

In my opinion, it doesn't offer as a cool a sleep as a wool or feather and down pillow does, but the 'Stratos finish' and the efforts to increase airflow within the pillow do pay off and help to combat the overheating that often goes hand-in-hand with synthetic bedding.

If you're a side sleeper with a wider frame, then this pillow might not be high enough for you, and if, like me, you prefer a firmer pillow, the Simba Hybrid Pillow may well prove too soft.

However, that doesn’t take away from the fact that this is a versatile pillow with a great deal of worthwhile sleep tech going on. Overall, I think that does justify its premium price point, and for many sleepers this could well be the perfect pillow.

Simba is perhaps one of the best-known sleep brands on the market, with its mattresses regularly scoring highly in our mattress testing process. But does the Simba CustomFlex Pillow stand up as one of the best pillows on the market?

The only specifically firm pillow in the Simba pillow range, the Simba CustomFlex Pillow promises extra stability at a premium cost. But is it worth it, especially for side sleepers who need that extra support when sleeping? I put this pillow to the test over several months, and as someone who prefers a truly firm pillow, I think its one of the best pillows for side sleepers going. This is why.

Simba CustomFlex Pillow review

Specifications

• RRP: £159
• Construction materials: Recycled polyester and titanium alloy springs with cotton outer
• Product size: H adjustable x W70 x D45cm
• Care instructions: Machine washable at 40°C (cover and filled pads only). Tumble dry on low heat (cover and filled pads only). Spring pad is sponge clean only.
• Manufacturer sleep trial: N/A

How I tested

My sleep stats:

• As a 6 foot tall side sleeper, I tend to need a high-loft pillow that matches my shoulder width in order to keep my head and neck well aligned
• I prefer to sleep with two firm pillows and on an incline due to allergies (hayfever, dust) and breathing problems
• I can get neck and back pain if pillows aren’t firm enough

Construction

The main construction of the Simba CustomFlex Pillow – and its unique selling point that we’ll get onto later – is the three inner pillow pads.

These layers include one firm layer that contains titanium alloy ‘Aerocoil’ springs designed to keep your head perfectly supported. This layer is perfectly weighted in my book – firm and supportive with a bit of give. Some firm pillows can feel like you’re sleeping on a brick. This isn’t one of them.

The other two layers are softer and filled with 'Simba Renew fibres' that are designed to mimic a feather or down pillow while holding their shape rather than flattening down over time. Simba Renew is a polyester fill made from recycled PET plastic bottles, while the Simba-Pure foam in the pillows is made to be free from environmentally damaging pollutants.

While feather and down is thought to be the more premium option, it’s worth keeping in mind this synthetic filling will help those – like me – who suffer from allergies brought on by dust or feather and down fills.

The pillow covers are made from 100% cotton and is approved by the Better Cotton Initiative, while Simba is a B Corp – a group of companies dedicated to sustainable and environmentally-friendly practices. (Which might just help you sleep a bit easier with your purchase).

Unique selling points

As already mentioned, one of the key features of the Simba CustomFlex Pillow is the three inner pillows that allow you to layer and personalise your pillow according to your sleep preferences.

Some similar customisable pillows can be a faff, but this keeps it really simple. If you want a lower loft pillow, just take a layer out. If you want a firmer, taller pillow, keep all three layers in with the firm layer at the top. Some evenings, I would just flip the pillow around depending on if I wanted a softer pillow or a firmer pillow that night.

The other main USP is the titanium alloy micro springs contained in one of the Hybrid Firm pillow's three layers. There aren't many pillows on the market that have actual springs inside them, but this is a key component that helps the CustomFlex maintain its height throughout the night without becoming compressed.

There’s also body heat-regulating technology in the pillow cover that’s meant to draw heat away and provide an instant cooling sensation. This was somewhat noticeable on really hot evenings, but arguably not as much of a selling point as the three layers.

What type of sleeper does it suit?

While billed as a firm pillow – and therefore aimed at side sleepers – the inner layered system means this is actually a really versatile pillow that can also be used by back sleepers.

If you’re a back sleeper, you’ll likely want to drop down to just the two layers, or try with the three layers and see how you go. If you wake up with neck pain because you're over extending your neck just remove one of the layers.

How comfortable is it?

I prefer a firm pillow, so for me, the Simba CustomFlex Pillow is about as comfortable as it gets. As a side sleeper, I also appreciated the height that the micro spring layer offered, which meant my head didn't slowly sink lower during the night. And, thanks to those two inner layers filled with soft polyester, this pillow isn't rock hard – I found it had enough softness to relax into, whilst still offering the height and support I need as a side sleeper with wider shoulders.

However, it's worth noting that a couple of other testers on our review team found this pillow too firm for their liking – even in 'medium firm' mode with the two inner comfort layers on top of the spring layer. In fact, one reviewer reported this pillow gave them an earache as they found it much too firm, so, like in many things, comfort is subjective and does come down to personal preference.

How breathable is it?

This is a predominantly synthetic pillow that uses polyester fibres within two of the inner pillow layers. Polyester is a form of plastic which tends to lack breathability and can reflect heat back twards the sleeper leading to a hot and sweaty head if you sleep warm.

However, Simba employs a few tricks in the Simba CustomFlex Pillow to help to combat overheating. The pillow's cover is made from cotton, a natural material that offers better breathability than a polyester cover would, and one side of this outer cover also features Simba's 'Stratos® technology' which is meant to support heat diffusion.

The side of the pillow with this technology has a subtle meshed cube pattern. Whilst I was testing I certainly found this side felt a lot more breathable than the other side of the pillow which is just normal cotton.

If you want to take advantage of this breathability, you do have to keep track of what side the pillow is on though – beware of the pillow flip. I'm not quite sure why this cover couldn't have been added to both sides of the pillow, but, if you tend to sleep warm on a synthetic pillow you may find this technology offers some relief.

The springs inside the Simba CustomFlex Pillow will also likely help with breathability as they increase airflow within the pillow a little, and the mesh sides of the pillow will help air to circulate so any head heat can dissipate more easily.

However, I didn't find this pillow slept as cool as my Woolroom Deluxe Washable Wool Pillow – the cotton outer paired with its naturally temperature-regulating wool fill meant I slept a lot cooler on the Woolroom option. Sadly, as a side sleeper with wider shoulders the loft of the Woolroom pillow is just a little low for me.

Is it good for those with allergies?

Generally, synthetic bedding fillings are better for people with allergies so this is a good option if you’re someone who can suffer from allergies.

I’m firmly in that allergies camp, and regularly suffer from excess dust in the house and hayfever. I definitely noticed my allergies were kept relatively at bay during testing the pillow – even if other factors might have been at play here.

Pillows can trap allergens, like dust mites, setting off allergy symptoms so the fact the Simba CustomFlex Pillow is relatively easy to throw in the washing machine – just take the filled pads out of the cover and wash them separately at 40°C (the only part you can't wash is the pad with the springs in) – adds to its allergy-proof credentials.

Care instructions

As mentioned in the section about allergies, the pillow is machine washable at 40°C. However, it is only the cover and two polyester filled pads that can be popped in the washing machine. The firmer spring pad inside the pillow is sponge clean only, which can be a pain to remember.

Verdict

As a side sleeper who has wider shoulders I found this an extremely effective pillow for me. Over the months of use I found a noticeable improvement in the back and neck pain I sometimes suffer from, while I haven’t seen any allergy flare-ups or had any breathing issues whilst using the pillow.

It was really simple to get the firmness level I needed and the pillow has stayed firm and plump over time.

However, many of our side sleeping testers with smaller frames than mine found this pillow a little too high, which is why I couldn't give this pillow full marks. You can remove one, or both, of the comfort layers if this is the case, but that will then make the pillow firmer, and, unlike me, some of our testers did find this pillow too firm for comfort.

That said, if like me, you're a side sleeper who wants a high loft pillow that won't compress overnight and you prefer a firm feel rather than a pillow you sink into, I think you'll enjoy sleeping on this pillow.

One thing to note is that this is quite a large pillow, and when reviewing it I found it was a tight squeeze fitting it into our usual pillowcases. Not the be-all and end-all, but something to keep in mind if the way a pillow looks on the bed is important to you.

Beyond that, the only real downside in that case is this pillow's premium price point. At full retail price this pillow is currently £159, which is very expensive. However, there aren't many other pillows on the market that offer this unique mix of springs and adjustable comfort layers, so if you’re a side sleeper who really values their sleep and wants to make the investment, I would recommend the Simba CustomFlex Pillow.

Thankfully Simba deals are also a regular occurence, so shop when bedding deals are in full swing and you could be able to snap up this pillow with a decent discount.

Silk pillowcases claim many benefits from cooling properties to easing wrinkles. However, we've just discovered a new benefit and it is helping hayfever.

If you have one of the best air purifiers at your disposal, this handy appliance can help to alleviate the symptoms of your seasonal allergies throughout the day. But if you’re a light sleeper, having an air purifier in your bedroom might not be the best option for you. So, what’s the alternative? Well, silk pillowcases could be the answer…

Can silk pillowcases help hay fever?

The short answer? Yes, silk pillowcases can help alleviate hay fever symptoms and help you sleep better during the height of spring and summer. But the long answer is a little more complicated.

After all, hay fever isn’t a one-size-fits-all allergy, and there are around 30 different types of pollen floating around the UK - many of which affect you at different times of the year. 

GP and allergy specialist Dr Helen Evans-Howells explains, ‘Hayfever is an abnormal response from our immune system triggering a reaction to something which should be harmless, such as tree or grass pollen.’

‘In the UK, our seasons are quite well defined, and tree pollen classically starts in February and runs until May/June, grass pollen runs May to July, and then weeds mainly run later into August.’

But while we already know that air purifiers can help hay fever, your bedding choices can also improve congestion and relieve skin irritation caused by your allergy.

Dr Roger Henderson, GP and expert for Olbas explains, ‘The alternative bedding material can help people affected by pollen to cope with the seasonal allergies. The reason they are so useful is because they are considered to be hypoallergenic and repel mites, mould, and even dust. As well as pollen, those that suffer with hay fever may feel the effects of dust.’

In fact, the tightly woven silk fibres also prevent pollen from getting trapped in the pillowcase's fabric, meaning it’s less likely to settle on your pillow and cause you extra irritation during the night. But that’s not the only perk. 

Sleep Expert and Founder of Sleep Goddess, Laurelle Darroux, says, ‘Silk pillowcases have a smooth and soft texture that may cause less friction against the skin compared to traditional cotton pillowcases.’

‘This reduced friction can be beneficial for individuals with sensitive skin or those prone to irritation from allergens like pollen. By minimising irritation, silk pillowcases may help alleviate some discomfort associated with hay fever symptoms.’

But do you also find that you overheat when you’re struggling with your hay fever symptoms? When you have blocked sinuses and congestion issues, it’s not uncommon to run hot during the night. Thankfully, silk can also help in this regard. 

Laurelle adds, ‘Silk has excellent temperature-regulating properties, helping to keep you cool in warmer weather and warm in cooler temperatures. This can be beneficial for hay fever sufferers who may experience discomfort from overheating during the night, as cooler sleeping conditions can help alleviate symptoms like congestion and discomfort.’

So, if you’re struggling to cope with hay fever symptoms at night, a silk pillowcase could be the answer. We’ve scoured the internet to find the best silk pillowcases on the market today so you can make the switch if you’re feeling the itch. 

The best silk pillowcases - our top picks

FAQs

Do silk pillowcases help with hay fever?

Yes! Experts at NEXT say, ‘We spend around a third of our lives sleeping, and if there is one place where pollen is likely to stick around when transferred indoors, it is where we rest our heads at night. Silk, with its natural hypoallergenic properties, is known to be beneficial for those who suffer from seasonal allergies.’

Alongside this, the fibres of silk are much tighter than the fibres of cotton, which means pollen particles are less likely to get caught in your pillowcases. As silk actively repels these particles, you shouldn’t be exposed to even more pollen when you go to sleep. 

However, it’s important to note that silk isn’t going to cure your hay fever. If you have a lot of pollen in your home or you sleep with your windows open, you may still suffer the effects - even if you are using a silk pillowcase. 

How do you sleep with bad hay fever?

As well as using a silk pillowcase, it’s also a good idea to sleep with an air purifier in your bedroom. If you do this, ensure you choose an air purifier that comes with a ‘quiet’ or ‘sleep’ mode so it doesn’t disturb you if you’re a light sleeper. 

Alongside this, you should also avoid drying your bed linen outside. Experts at Secret Linen Store say, ‘There is typically more pollen in the air on warm, dry day, and unfortunately, this is usually the best time for drying your bedding outside. It is easy for pollen to stick to your bedding, which can lead to an increase in hay fever symptoms and cause sleepless nights.’

Although hay fever normally rears its head during the warmer months, you should also keep your windows shut if you struggle to sleep with bad hay fever. The last thing you want to do is welcome even more pollen into your home. 

So, will you be making the switch?

To achieve a good night's sleep, your bedroom and bed environment need to be right - from the mattress to the pillows. Recently, we came across something of a revelation in the form of V-shaped pillows. Now, you might be wondering, like us, what they are, and do you need a V-shaped pillow?

The improved head, neck and shoulder support makes this style one of the best pillows we’ve come across. While you might not want to completely swap out your old pillows for these, they would sure make the perfect addition to your pillow arsenal for several reasons.

So if your interest in these uniquely shaped pillows has been peaked, then wait till you hear the amount of benefits they come with according to sleep experts.

Do you need a V-shaped pillow?

Whether it’s time to replace your pillows or you’re looking to add to your pillow collection, a V-shaped pillow is the perfect candidate.

‘Unlike regular pillows, a V-shaped pillow features two connecting sides that allow the head and neck to comfortably rest in between,’ says Sally Bonser, Silentnight spokesperson. ‘V-shaped pillows are a great multi-functional addition to the bed and the home, specifically designed to help support the user in different ways.’

The benefits of V-shaped pillows

‘They are shaped this way to provide targeted support to the natural contours of the body, such as under the neck or along the spine,’ says Chris Tattersall, sleep expert and MD of Woolroom.

As such, this type of pillow is especially great for those that need that kind of special support.

‘I would recommend a V-shaped pillow for individuals who are suffering from neck or shoulder pain as they provide targeted support to these areas, promoting proper alignment and reducing discomfort,’ Chris says.

‘Pregnant women can also benefit greatly from V-shaped pillows, as they can help relieve pressure on the abdomen, and alleviate any pain in the back and hips, improving overall sleep quality. Additionally, mothers who are breastfeeding will find V-shaped pillows to be extremely useful for providing support and comfort during nursing sessions.’

Karen Innes, new product innovation manager at Slumberdown, adds, ‘One of the main benefits of V-shaped pillows is the way in which they keep the head elevated whilst the sides prevent users from rolling over. This is great for those who often move around a lot in their sleep, and in particular anyone recovering from pain or injury who should try to remain still whilst sleeping.’

However, anyone and everyone can really benefit from the distinct design as the elevated position this pillow forces its user to be in has a host of side benefits.

‘They can also promote better posture, encouraging optimum spinal alignment. By providing targeted support to these areas with a V-shaped pillow, they can alleviate discomfort and prevent the development of musculoskeletal issues over time,’ Chris says.

Karen continues, ‘In some cases, they can even relieve snoring and sleep apnea due to the elevation of the upper body.’

Should you swap out your old pillow for a V-shaped one?

Similarly to determining how many pillows you should sleep with, deciding whether you should swap your existing pillow for a V-shaped one is very personal and subjective as it depends on your sleeping preferences.

But if you’re asking whether you should add a V-shaped pillow to your bed, then the answer is a resounding yes. As it’s not only great for sleeping, but also for relaxing, watching TV or reading a book.

‘I would recommend people adding a V-shaped pillow to their sleep environment for added support rather than swapping them out entirely,’ Chris advises.

‘The firm V shape makes for improved comfort sitting upright, reading, watching TV, resting, or simply relaxing before, during or after bedtime,’ Karen concludes.

What a find this is!

If you've recently invested in new bedding then you may be pondering how to reuse your old pillows, and the good news is that you can do so in the garden!

Sadly, even the best pillows don't last forever, but as long as you make sure you're using the right pillow for the right purpose – the filling inside your pillow is key to these budget garden ideas – you can give your old pillow a new lease of life in the garden.

That's right, just as you have to take some time doing your research on how to reuse an old mattress in the garden, the same is true of pillows. But don't worry, along with some gardening and DIY experts, I'm here to explain all.

How to reuse old pillows in the garden

You might find it difficult to believe that an old pillow can be the secret to bringing some of your favourite garden ideas to life, but you'd be wrong.

There are plenty of genius ways to reuse old pillows in the garden – so long as you're willing to embrace a little out-of-the-box thinking!

From insulation to fun upcycling ideas for the garden, here's how to put your pillow to work in the great outdoors...

1. Make outdoor cushions for your outdoor furniture

Even the very best garden furniture can use a little accessorising – especially if doing so can ramp up its comfort levels!

'You can reuse old pillows in the garden by upcycling them into new or additional fillers for your outdoor pillows and cushions and floor cushions,' says Hana Leonard from Secret of the Garden, who showcased the beauty of recycled materials in her award-winning RHS Hampton Court Show Garden.

The joy of this hack is that you can use virtually any pillow-filling, just make sure that you bring your cushions indoors if the weather turns so that they don't get damp. 'Alternatively, you can just add or make a new waterproof or water-repellent covers for your old pillows, and voila! Out they go,' suggests Hana.

2. Create a kneeling pad

A kneeling pad is an essential if you're a keen gardener. It will protect your knees whilst you're spending long hours planting or weeding. You'll be pleased to learn, then, that you can transform an old pillow into a kneeler to save money and recycle.

'If you cover them with waterproof, UV-resistant fabric, you can transform old pillows into kneeling pads,' says Hana. You could even just pop a pillow into a waterproof plastic bag to protect your knees from stones and gravel whilst you're gardening.

This is an especially good use if you have one of the best memory foam pillows that has now seen better days, as memory foam will mould around your knees for the utmost comfort.

3. Use as insulation

If you want to elevate your greenhouse or summer house ideas, don't throw out your old pillows!

'You can use the pillow stuffing as insulation between your summer house or studio’s external and internal walls,' says Hana.

'Alternatively, you can use them as insulation/cover around plants in your greenhouse – which is a must for anyone hoping to protect your plants from frost.'

4. Boost your rain harvesting abilities

Rain harvesting is one of the most important hacks any gardener can master, and an old pillow can be reused in the garden as a water conservation aid.

Pillows filled with absorbent materials – like wool – can be placed in the bottom of planters beneath the layer of soil to help retain water, which is especially useful in dryer climates or during hot spells.

'Incorporating absorbent materials from old pillows into your planters is a smart move for water conservation,' says James. 'It's a practical solution that underscores the importance of sustainability in gardening practices. Every drop saved counts!'

5. Enrich the soil

This one takes a little more care, as it's very important you only use pillows filled with biodegradable natural materials such as feather and down or wool. But, Steven Bell, the CEO of Paving Shopper, says that natural pillow fillings can also be used as soil enrichment.

'Tearing open your old wool pillows and mixing their natural fillings into your garden borders and raised beds can significantly enhance soil quality,' says Steven. 'Just make absolutely sure the material is free from any synthetic fibers, which won't break down in the soil,' he warns.

So definitely no polyester, microfibre, hollowfibre, or memory foam pillow fillings for this one as they can harm the environment. However, if you're blessed with a biodegradable wool-filled pillow, good news, because soil enrichment is one of the most important things you can do to improve the health of your garden.

FAQs

What is the best thing to do with old pillows?

If your pillows are still in good nick but you're just not finding them comfortable, you may be able to donate them to your local homeless shelter to be reused or you could try listing them for free on a selling site such as Facebook Marketplace or Gumtree.

Old, used bedding that's past its best can be trickier to dispose of. However, just like when it comes to what to do with old duvets, there are solutions.

If you don't fancy getting crafty and repurposing your pillows in the garden as outdoor cushions, insulation, or kneeling mats, you could consider donating your old bedding to an animal shelter, like your local RSPCA dog shelter, or taking it to a textile recycling scheme.

So, have any of these easy garden ideas inspired you to reuse your old pillows in the great outdoors? If so let us know in the comments!

Bedding deals are great news if you're looking to upgrade your boudoir for less, with big savings on bestselling duvets, pillows, mattress toppers, bed linen, and much, much more.

We've spent a lot of time testing and getting to know the best duvets, pillows and so much more so we know how to advise you on the top materials, fillings and other features to look out for.

Top quality bedding like this can come at a price (although we do rate some bargain buys too!), so we've broken down when, where and how to shop to make sure you're getting the best deal possible.

Where to find the best bedding deals

These brands are where we recommend looking for bedding deals on duvets, pillows, mattress protectors, mattress toppers, bed linen, and more.

• Amazon: find discounts on brands like Simba and Silentnight
• Argos: for deals on everything from pillows to bed linens
• Bedeck: sales on linens from Joules, Sanderson and more
• Debenhams: save on duvets, bedding sets and mattress toppers
• Dunelm: great prices year round
• Emma: the brand regularly discounts their bestsellers
• Furn: deals on trendy patterned and coloured linens
• Habitat: for own brand, Silentnight and Slumberdown deals
• House of Fraser: save on brands like Ralph Lauren and Sheridan
• John Lewis: find deals on toppers, pillows and more
• Kally Sleep: for savings on ergonomic pillows
• La Redoute: snap up discounts on stylish linens
• M&S: look for their popular Goode Feather & Down collections
• Panda: save on their eco-friendly bamboo designs
• Piglet in Bed: for deals on luxe bed linens
• Silentnight: discover reduced electric blankets
• Simba: regular deals on mattresses and pillows
• Soak and Sleep: save on luxury linens and duvets
• Very: for low-cost bedding sets and blankets
• Wayfair: regular sales on all types of bedding
• The White Company: luxury linens discounted for seasonal sales
• Woolroom: save on the brand's wool bedding

When is the best time to find bedding deals?

Finding the cheapest prices on bed linen, pillows and duvets can all come down to knowing when to shop. There are a few key dates to bear in mind to help you to time your search for the best bedding deals with the times that retailers are most likely to be slashing their prices.

• First Black Friday, the biggest sales event of the year. In previous years, Black Friday bedding deals have delivered some hefty discounting, with sales at John Lewis & Partners and The White Company (although the retailer brands its own event as a 'White Weekend' instead), up to 40% off at M&S, up to 70% off at DUSK, up to 50% off at La Redoute, and a whole host more savings. The next Black Friday will occur on 28th November 2025.
• Amazon Prime Day is another key event. For the last couple of years this has happen twice, in June and in October. Expect to see deals on brands like Simba and Silentnight.
• Then there are the seasonal sales, especially end of summer, the January sales and Boxing Day. The discounts for the latter can often start well before Boxing Day itself, with online retailers increasingly offering discounts as soon as their pre-Christmas shipping dates have passed, although January can often have even better deals on offer thanks to most people reigning in their spending that month.

FAQs

What bedding should I buy to improve sleep?

There are lots of ways to overhaul your sleep set-up. These are some of the key items of bedding that can make all the difference between an average and an excellent night's sleep, and as such, are well worth snapping up whilst there are sales on.

• Sleep better under one of the best duvets money can buy
• Avoid neck pain with one of the best pillows under your head
• Add extra comfort to your mattress with one of the best mattress toppers
• Overheating at night? One of the best cooling mattress toppers could help
• If you've already invested in the best mattress for your sleep style, make sure to protect your purchase with a mattress protector
• Prepare for winter by snapping up one of the best electric blankets
• One of the best weighted blankets could help you relax and sleep more soundly

If you’re wondering how to wash a silk pillowcase safely, we’re here to help. Silk pillowcases are a luxurious addition to any bed, but they can require a little more TLC than your average pillowcase.

As such, I asked various cleaning experts for their top tips on how to wash this delicate item, including whether it's best to handwash or machine-wash silk bedding.

After all, experts agree that silk pillowcases and silk sheets help you sleep better, but there’s no denying that investing in silk bedding is expensive. So the last thing any of us wants to do is ruin our silk bedding on the first wash. This is how to get it right.

How to wash a silk pillowcase 

‘Silk pillowcases are a luxurious addition to any bed, but they require a delicate touch when it comes to cleaning,’ says Natasha Brook, cleaning and laundry expert at Dr. Beckmann. ‘Washing them incorrectly can lead to damage, fading, or a rough texture that takes away from their signature softness.’

There are two main ways of washing a silk pillowcase: by hand and in the machine. But whichever option you choose, the one thing all of our experts agree on is that you need to use the right detergent.

The right laundry detergent

When washing silk pillowcases, don’t use regular detergent. Instead, make sure you’re using a laundry detergent specifically designed for delicate fabrics like silk. Fabric softeners are also best skipped.

‘Use mild pH-neutral detergent specifically designed for delicate fabrics,’ advises Petya Holevich, cleaning expert at Fantastic Services. ‘Silk fabric is protein-based, and it’s very important to avoid using harsh chemicals when washing it, which also includes soap.’

‘Use a wool or silk detergent,' agrees Joanna Ross, general manager of design at luxury bedding brand Sheridan. 'We recommend using a detergent that is free from optical brightening agents (OBAs) and bleaching agents. This is a very common ingredient in most of the detergents and is great for keeping whites white; however can also weaken and discolour certain fabric fibres.’

We've listed three of our cleaning experts' recommendations for washing silk pillowcases below.

How to handwash a silk pillowcase

Once you have a delicate laundry detergent in hand, it's time to get washing. Many of our experts recommend handwashing a silk pillowcase because the fabric's fibres are so delicate.

When handwashing, 'use a small amount of a gentle detergent with cool water and carefully swish the pillowcase around,' says Natasha Brook. 'Never wring or scrub as this can weaken the fibres.'

‘Rinse in cold water to maintain the silk's shine and prevent shrinking,' agrees Petya.

Then, 'press out excess water with a clean towel before lying flat to dry,' says Natasha. 'To maintain its smooth, luxurious texture, allow your silk pillowcase to air dry away from direct sunlight. With proper care, it will remain soft and glossy for years to come.'

How to machine wash a silk pillowcase

You may also be wondering if you can machine-wash a silk pillowcase. The answer is yes, but it requires delicate care.

'Before placing the pillow case in the washing machine, turn the pillow case inside out to avoid damaging the delicate material,' advises Michael Forbes, lead product expert at washing machine manufacturer AEG, 'then, place in a mesh laundry bag.'

'Make sure you’re washing silk separately to other materials to prevent damage from rougher fabrics,' adds Michael. Then, 'put your washing machine on a delicate, cold-water cycle like the ‘Delicates’ or ‘Gentle’ setting... this helps to prevent shrinkage and damage to the delicate fibers.'

Natasha reminds us to 'always use a detergent formulated for delicates to protect the fabric and avoid bleach and fabric softener, as they can break down the silk’s natural sheen.'

Finally, avoid the temptation of tumble drying. 'Always airdry and never tumble dry,' warns Michale. 'You want to remember silk is a delicate material and avoid any wear or tear'. Instead, lay the silk pillowcase flat on a clean, dry towel and let it air dry there.

FAQs

Can you machine wash silk pillowcases?

‘Hand washing is the recommended option,' says Petya. 'But if you're using a washing machine, place the pillowcases in a mesh laundry bag and select the delicate or silk cycle.’

How often should you wash your silk pillowcase?

‘Silk pillowcases should be washed every 1 to 2 weeks, which will help maintain their cleanliness without exposing them to excessive washing, which can lead to fading and damage,’ Petya explains. ‘Besides that, if you use skincare or haircare products that may transfer onto the pillowcase, it'll be necessary to wash them more frequently.’

What happens if you wash silk with normal detergent?

There’s a reason why experts don’t recommend using regular detergent on delicate fabrics like silk. And that reason is the potential destruction of your favourite pillowcase.

‘Silk items should be cleaned with a special detergent for delicate fabrics, otherwise, they’ll be damaged. Avoid bleach and fabric softeners because they can damage the silk fibres. Instead, stick to gentle detergents without harsh chemicals,’ Petya advises.

So there we go, everything you need to know about how to wash a silk pillowcase to avoid any damage to this delicate item.

If you’ve recently splashed out and invested in a set of feather and down pillows, you may now be wondering if you can wash feather pillows, and if so, how.

In short, the answer is yes, you can wash feather pillows either by hand or in the washing machine, but there’s some important advice to follow before you do to ensure you protect your purchase.

That’s because when it comes to how to wash pillows, the pillow filling matters. And although a feather and down pillow has a lot to offer in terms of luxurious comfort, it is a pillow filling that requires a little more TLC than your average easy-care synthetic-filled pillow.

As such, I’ve rounded up a group of cleaning and bedding experts to shed light on how to wash a feather pillow for the best results, how long feather pillows take to dry, and even how to freshen up feather pillows without washing at all. Without further ado, let’s find out more.

Can you wash feather pillows?

'Yes, feather pillows can be washed, and it’s important to keep them clean,’ says Emma Beck, buying and merchandising manager at Bensons for Beds.

‘Lots of people assume that just washing the pillowcases is enough to keep our bedding fresh, meaning the pillows themselves often get neglected. But dirt, dead skin, and dust mites penetrate through the pillowcase, and after just two years, these unwanted extras can form one-third of a pillow’s weight. Yuck!.’

However, because feather and down fill is fragile, when it comes to how often you should wash your pillows, our experts do recommend washing a feather and down pillow less frequently than a polyester microfibre or hollowfibre pillow.

‘Regular washing should be avoided to ensure the filler remains at its best and most efficient,' explains Laura Burnett, buyer at Feather & Black. 'Over-washing can break down the naturally moisture-wicking oils found on the feathers and can cause them to become brittle and break.’

Figuring out how to choose the right pillow isn't easy, and if you've just found the best pillow for side sleeping or your dream feather and down pillow for back sleeping, the last thing you'll want to do is damage it

For this reason, Emma Beck advises we 'give feather pillows a wash every six months to keep them fresh. A cleaner pillow can improve your health, as dust mite build-up can heighten allergies.'

Although it's worth stating that if you do suffer from allergies, you might find that the best filling for a pillow is microfibre or hollowfibre, which can be washed at higher temperatures and more frequently.

Can you wash a feather pillow in the washing machine?

When it comes to *how* to wash a feather pillow, the answer lies in its care label, as not all feather pillows are constructed the same. Many can be washed in a washing machine, but some will advise handwashing, or state that they're dry clean only.

'When it comes to washing your feather and down pillows, always start by reading the care label carefully,' confirm Emily and Jonathan Attwood, founders of feather and down bedding brand scooms. 'Ensure you follow the instructions to wash them correctly without causing damage.'

'While some feather pillows may be labelled as hand wash only, most can be washed in a machine using a gentle cycle. If your machine isn't big enough to fit a pillow, then we'd advise going to a launderette to use a large-capacity washer.'

'Before placing the pillows into the machine, be sure to remove any pillowcases or protectors and check for any damage or rips to the pillows, which may result in the fillings escaping into your machine,' advises Emma Beck from Bensons for Beds.

'It’s also important to place two pillows in the wash at one time,' says Michael Forbes, lead product trainer at home appliance and laundry specialists AEG. 'This will balance the load and help to ensure a more thorough cleaning and drying process.'

'If you aren’t comfortable putting your pillows in the washing machine, you can also wash them by hand,' explains Emma, 'but check the manufacturer’s instructions before doing so, and remember to be gentle so as not to damage the delicate fillings.'

'Always use non-bio detergent, using a third of the usual amount to help prevent residue build up,' advise Emily and Jonathan from scooms, 'and set your wash temperature to 40 degrees for the best results.'

'Avoid using a fabric softener too, as this can impact the texture of the pillow,' adds Natasha Brook, cleaning and laundry expert at Dr. Beckmann. 'Use a gentle cycle and a pre-dosed treatment such as Dr. Beckmann’s Laundry Detergent Sheets to prevent coating the feathers, which can reduce their fluffiness.'

How long do feather pillows take to dry?

Once washed, how long do feather pillows take to dry? A while, is the answer, but it's important not to skip this stage. 'Drying is just as important a step as washing,' explains Natasha Brook. 'Feather pillows can take several hours to fully dry, and any remaining moisture may cause an unpleasant odour.'

'Once washed, you need to ensure your pillow is thoroughly dry to prevent mould, mildew and unpleasant odours,' agree Emily and Jonathan Attwood.

'Some feather pillows may be able to be popped into the tumble dryer, but again, do always check your manufacturer's care guidelines,' says Emma Beck. 'This will usually be on a low-heat or no-heat setting. A top tip for removing excess water from the pillows before placing them into the tumble dryer is to gently press them between two towels. Just be sure not to wring the pillows with your hands as this could damage the delicate feathers.'

'Tumble dry on low heat with dryer balls, which will help fluff the pillow and prevent clumping,' advises laundry expert Michael Forbes. If you don't have dryer ball, you can 'add a clean tennis ball into the drum to help fluff up the pillows and ensure the filling is spread evenly once dry,' suggests Emma Beck.

'If possible, dry your pillow on a low-heat setting and stop periodically to fluff it up by hand to help redistribute the feathers evenly,' advise Emily and Jonathan Attwood. You may need to use multiple drying cycles to ensure your pillow filling is completely dry.'

How do you freshen feather pillows without washing them?

There's no denying that whilst you can wash feather pillows, and they're one of the best pillows for recreating that hotel-luxe feeling at home, the process of cleaning them is a little more involved than with a synthetic-filled pillow.

This is particularly true if you're attempting to clean your feather pillow during the winter months when good line drying weather isn't on your side. So, can you freshen feather pillows without washing them?

First, 'consider using a pillow protector, which sits underneath your pillowcase, to protect your pillow from stains, dust mites, and allergens in the first place,' says Emma Beck. 'A pillow protector can be easily removed and washed when you change your bedding.'

‘We recommend always using a pillow protector which can be easily removed and washed regularly,' agrees Laura Burnett at Feather & Black. The good news is you can stock up on pillow protectors for as little as £5, and if that saves some laborious washing and protects your expensive feather and down pillow, I think that's money well spent.

Finally, 'to refresh your pillow between washes, sprinkle a little baking soda over it and leave for 30 minutes before vacuuming off,' suggest Emily and Jonathan Attwood. 'This helps to absorb any moisture and odours.'

'Or pop your pillow in the tumble dryer on a no-heat, air-only cycle with dryer balls to help air and fluff up the feather filling.'

All in all, I think that's plenty of solutions for keeping your feather pillow in tip-top condition.

When it comes to how often you should replace your pillows, experts advise every two years. But the better condition you can keep your feather pillows in, the longer they will last. And as a good quality feather and down pillow is an investment, this is one area where a little TLC every now and then could save you a lot of cash.

If your once-white pillows are starting to look less than pristine, you're likely wondering how to get rid of yellow stains on pillows.

Yellowing is a problem that can happen to even the best pillows, but the good news is that there are ways to fix it, as well as methods to prevent it from happening in the future.

In this guide, we'll break down the step-by-step process of how to make yellow pillows white again, and our cleaning experts will also explain what causes yellow stains on a pillow in the first place.

So without further ado, let's get on with removing those stains and getting your pillows back into tip top shape.

How to get rid of yellow stains on pillows

'Removing yellow stains from pillows can be a bit challenging,' says Petya Holevich, cleaning expert at Fantastic Services. 'However, with the right approach, you can solve this problem easily.' Here's what you'll need.

• A pre-wash stain remover; we like this Vanish Oxi Action Multi Stain Degreaser Spray from Amazon
• Mild liquid laundry detergent: try this Ecover Zero Delicate Laundry Liquid for Sensitive Skin from Amazon
• Optional - dryer balls or clean tennis balls

Step-by-step guide

1. Check the care label

Most pillows can be spot-cleaned, but not all can be washed or soaked in water, so the first step is to check the care label first to make sure you can clean your pillow. Our guide to how to wash pillows has more information.

2. Identify the cause

'Before treating the stain, it'll be key to figure out what caused it,' says cleaning expert Petya. 'The most common reasons usually include sweat, body oils, and saliva. Choosing the right products is then a very important factor for effectively removing yellow stains from your pillows.'

'Some of the most effective options I’d recommend include mild liquid detergent mixed with equal parts water for general stains such as sweat and body oils, enzymatic cleaners for organic stains such as saliva, oxygen bleach as a safer alternative to chlorine bleach for whitening, and commercial stain removers which can be specifically formulated for different types of stains.'

However, you can also opt for natural cleaning products. 'Baking soda acts as a natural deodoriser and mild pillow stain remover,' says Petya, 'white vinegar can eliminate unpleasant smells, and lemon juice has natural bleaching properties.

'Besides that, some essential oils, such as tea tree oil or lavender oil, have antibacterial properties. If you add a few drops to your regular detergent when washing the pillows, they can do a very effective job at dealing with pillow stains. However, if you decide to opt for natural cleaning methods, keep in mind that they may take more time and persistence and may need to be repeated in comparison to using bleach.'

3. Pre-treat the stains if possible

'If the stains have been caused by sweat and body oil, create a solution of equal parts water and mild liquid detergent and gently dab the stained area with a clean cloth or sponge,' Petya continues. 'Avoid rubbing because it can spread the stains further.'

Or, Sophie Lane, product training manager at Miele GB advises pre-treating with a stain remover. ‘Apply a small amount of a pre-wash stain remover or a mixture of equal parts water and liquid laundry detergent to the stain’.

'For saliva stains, enzymatic cleaners, which break down organic stains, will be more effective,' Petya explains. 'In most cases, powdered laundry detergent alone won’t be able to remove the stains. If your pillow can be washed, instead, combine one cup of laundry detergent with one cup of bleach, one cup of dishwashing detergent and half a cup of borax.'

'Once you have this solution, soak your pillow in it with hot water, either directly in your washing machine using the soak function or separately into a bucket or another type of large container. Let them sit like this for around an hour so the ingredients can get activated and flip the pillows over halfway through soaking. Make sure they get completely wet.'

3. Wash your pillow according to the care label

'If the pillow is machine washable, launder it according to the care instructions on the label,' says Petya. 'If you’re treating white pillows, add oxygen bleach to the washing machine. It can help to brighten and remove more stubborn stains.'

For non-machine washable pillows, you'll have to stick to spot cleaning.

'If you’re laundering your pillows in the washing machine, include an extra rinse cycle so they’re cleaned thoroughly,' advises Petya. 'I’d also recommend washing your pillows in pairs so their weight will be balanced.'

4. Dry your pillow thoroughly

'When washing your pillows, remember to also let them dry completely before using them again,' warns Petya. 'Otherwise, the moisture left on the pillow can result in mould and mildew growth, which can make your sleeping environment unhealthy.'

'Sunlight can naturally bleach and disinfect your stained pillows,' says Petya. 'After washing, let them air-dry in direct sunlight, which can help eliminate any unpleasant smells.'

But what if you don't have an outside space or a sunny day on your side? If your pillow can be tumble-dried, experts have a few hacks to help speed up the drying process and ensure you pull a fluffy pillow out of the machine.

Emily and Jonathan Attwood, founders of bedding brand scooms advise, 'using wool dryer balls in the dryer, as they'll help the hot air to circulate more evenly and efficiently, not only reducing drying time, but saving you money on your energy bills too!’.

'Tumble dry them on low heat with dryer balls or clean tennis balls to help keep them fluffy,' agrees Petya.

FAQs

How do I prevent yellow stains on my pillows?

So now we know how to get rid of yellow stains on pillows, but there is a way to prevent them forming in the first place.

'To prevent your pillows from staining in the future, use pillow protectors, which are washable and act as a barrier preventing stains from forming and spreading,' advises Petya.

Yep, just like one of the best mattress protectors will shield your mattress from stains, one of the best pillow protectors will defend your favourite pillow from yellowing. Here are three of our top recommendations for where to shop.

'Also, wash pillows regularly,' advises Petya. If you're wondering how often you should wash a pillow, Petya says 'at least every 4 to 6 months' and suggest we make sure to 'follow care instructions.'

What causes yellow stains on pillows

In the battle against yellow stains, it's well worth knowing what causes them in the first place.

'Yellow stains on pillows can be caused by various factors,' explains cleaning expert Petya. 'Some of the most common reasons are sweat and natural body oils produced by your skin, saliva from drooling during sleep, going to bed with wet hair, and makeup and skincare products'.

‘Yellow stains on pillows are typically caused by a combination of factors, including natural body oils and sweat that accumulate over time,’ agrees Baqir Khan, cleaning expert and owner of Proactive Cleaners.

‘These substances can seep into the fabric of the pillowcase and pillow, creating unsightly discolouration. Additionally, dust mites, allergens, and skin cells can contribute to the staining.’

According to Rex Isap, CEO of Happy Beds, our sleeping position can also play a big part, that's because ‘those who sleep on their side or front are more likely to drool than back sleepers, increasing the likelihood of pillows turning yellow.’

Should I throw away yellow pillows?

Yellow stains on pillows are easier to remove if they're washed regularly and stains are dealt with promptly. If sweat, body oils, or saliva has been left to sit on the pillow for a long time then it may harder to get out.

At this point, you might have to bite the bullet and swap out your pillow for a new one. But, if you're wondering how often you should replace your pillows, experts advise every two years so that they maintain their support. So it may be your pillow is already overdue for replacement.

Hopefully, that's everything you need to know to get your yellow pillows white again, but of course, that isn't the only cleaning your sleep setup requires.

If you're ready to give your boudoir a complete refresh, our guides to how to wash a duvet, how to clean a mattress topper, and how to clean a mattress have everything you need to know.

Now there's no excuse not to have hotel-worthy bedding at home!

The best pillow for a side sleeper is one that allows the head, neck, and spine to rest in perfect alignment.

When you lie on your side to sleep, your posture should be the same as if you were standing up straight. That means that for side sleeping, you need a pillow that's deep enough to fill the gap between your ear and your shoulder, and firm enough that it will keep your head supported during the night without your neck arching up or down.

As a result, a side sleeper needs a different type of pillow from a back sleeper, and getting your side sleeping support wrong can lead to neck or shoulder pain. Luckily, studies by the National Library of Medicine show that over 50% of the population are side sleepers, so there are plenty of pillows aimed specifically at those of us who lie on our sides on the market.

However, finding the best pillow for side sleeping can still be tricky, as we each have different shoulder widths and different mattress tensions that affect our ideal pillow height. The good news is that as Ideal Home's Sleep Editor, I've spent the past four years testing over fifty pillows (and counting) to track down the very best side sleeping options.

Overall, the Woolroom Natural Latex Washable Wool Pillow is my top choice for side sleepers thanks to its two height options and latex filling that offers support for the neck and pressure relief for the head. But, depending on your sleep preferences, there are plenty more options on my shortlist to help you find the perfect fit if you sleep on your side.

The quick list

Short on time? This quick list is an overview of the very best side sleeping pillows. You'll find more information on each pillow and why I recommend it if you continue scrolling.

The best side sleeping pillows

Best side sleeping pillow overall

Overall, I think the Woolroom Natural Latex Washable Wool Pillow is one of the best pillows for side sleepers available. And that's really saying something, because I've tested a *lot* of pillows especially designed for this sleeping position.

This pillow comes in two height options, a 15cm and an 18cm depth. This choice is particularly important for side sleeping because the width of our shoulders and the softness of our mattress both affect the height of the pillow we need to keep our head, neck, and spine aligned.

However, my favourite feature is its natural latex core. Latex is still a fairly uncommon pillow filling, but I'm a *big* fan. This material offers great support that kept my head lifted nicely in line with my spine when I was lying on my side, but unlike foam or memory foam, it doesn't feel overly firm. Instead, I found it a bit like resting my head on top of a very firm jelly! Sounds odd, but you'll have to trust me, it feels great! Woolroom describes it as a 'weightless' sensation, and I'd agree.

Even better, latex is more breathable than foam, and Woolroom has added extra airholes plus a cotton and wool cover, which is brilliant at regulating temperature. I'm a hot sleeper, and I've overheated on pretty much every memory foam or foam pillow I've tested for side sleeping, but I stayed comfortably cool all night long on this pillow.

This pillow is an investment, but having tested a *lot* of other options, I do think it's worth it. It also requires a little more TLC than your average synthetic pillow. You can't clean the latex core, and the cover needs washing on a delicate wool cycle, but that's because it's made from all-natural materials that are far gentler on the environment than synthetics, so, for me, that's another bote in its favour.

A 30-night sleep trial also means there's an opportunity to test out if it's *your* dream pillow before you commit, and that's something I'd strongly suggest you consider if you're a side sleeper looking to get comfier.

My full Woolroom Natural Latex Washable Wool Pillow review has all the details

Best pillow for side sleepers with neck pain

Finding a pillow that's the right height is *the* most important factor if we're a side sleeper. That's because a pillow that's too high, or too low, can put strain on the neck and either cause neck pain or make existing neck problems more painful.

Unlike pretty much any other pillow I've come across, the Levitex Sleep Posture Pillow is available in four heights, and this makes finding the exact right height pillow for you *far* easier. I simply input my height and mattress tension into Levitex's clever pillow height calculator, and it advised which of the 8, 10, 12, and 14cm depth pillows would suit me best.

Once the pillow arrived, it was indeed exactly the right depth to fit snugly against my shoulder and support my head. Because this pillow is made of firmer foam than any other pillow in this round-up, I also found it very stable. This stability kept my head in its optimum posture all night long, rather than the filling gradually shifting or dropping and putting strain on my neck. This firmer feel also prevented me from slumping forward or back as my body relaxed – another plus point for those with neck pain.

On the downside, I found it slept a little warm, and that firm foam meant I found this pillow a little utilitarian in feel. Unlike other options in this shortlist, it doesn't have much squish factor, so it doesn't feel particularly luxurious, but then it's designed for a function; to keep the head firmly supported to avoid any neck pain, and that it does very well.

It's also a reasonable price. Not cheap, but not extravagantly expensive. Plus, a generous sleep trial means there's plenty of opportunity to test out if it's for you before you commit. All in all, if you're a side sleeper who always sleeps on your side, this is my top recommendation. If you're a side sleeper who changes sleeping position in the night, read on.

My Levitex Sleep Posture Pillow review has the full lowdown.

Best budget pillow for side sleepers

If you're a side sleeper looking for an affordable pillow, this is the best value option I've found. And for once, more affordable doesn't mean a compromise on comfort, because this is a great pillow.

Its memory foam inner isn't quite as firm as the first two options in this round-up so it lacks a little stability, but its blocky design still tucked nicely in between my shoulder and neck and kept my head at a good height during the night with only a little sinkage into the memory foam core.

I also appreciated that bit of extra squish, as this sleep surface has more give than the first two options. However, whether that makes it as supportive is up for debate.

The main downside of this pillow is that it only comes in one height option. That means it's likely to be too low for taller side sleepers or those on a firmer mattress, and too high for shorter side sleepers or those on a soft mattress.

Luckily, there's a sleep trial. So in my opinion this pillow is well worth testing out to see if it's the right dimensions for you. If it is, you're in luck and can bag a bargain, if not, and you can afford to invest a little more, the Levitex Sleep Posture Pillow offers far more height options (and a firmer feel that you may prefer).

Find out more in our Panda Memory Foam Pillow review.

Best memory foam pillow for side sleepers

TEMPUR was the first brand to take a material developed by NASA for use in spacecraft – otherwise known as memory foam – and turn it into a material that's taken the sleep world by storm. So perhaps it's little wonder that I've found this is the best memory foam pillow for side sleepers.

The brand's memory foam feels denser and heavier than competitors, and seems to do a better job of moulding to the head and neck than most alternative options I've tested. But what really makes this pillow stand out for side sleepers is its ergonomic, ridged design that's specifically crafted to support the neck when you're lying on your side.

Importantly, it also comes in three height options that make finding the right fit for your shoulder width and mattress tension easier. TEMPUR has also solved one of memory foam's biggest downsides – its tendency to cause overheating – thanks to a clever cooling cover that kept even my head – and I'm a *very* hot sleeper – cool overnight.

That means its main downside is its price. At £149, this pillow is quite the investment, and significantly more expensive than anything else in my round-up. Its softer, malleable memory foam core also means it lacks some stability, so those with neck pain might struggle, as I found my head did slowly sink lower for the first twenty minutes or so..

However, if you love the cushioning of memory foam, and one of those three height options is the perfect fit to tuck under your head, this could be your ideal side sleeping pillow. And if you buy direct from TEMPUR, a 30-night sleep trial makes the investment a lot less risky.

Most luxurious pillow for side sleepers

The downside of being a side sleeper is that for optimum support you generally need to swap out any soft and squishy pillows you may enjoy snuggling into for one with much firmer support.

Keeping your head well supported should be the main goal to avoid neck pain, but sometimes, a functional pillow can feel a little... well, basic. This is probably why the Panda Hybrid Bamboo pillow has elicited sighs of delight from all the side sleepers I've given it to.

It's a far more luxurious pillow than most of the rectangular box pillows generally recommended for side sleeping, and although, yes, it is a little low and perhaps a little too squishy to offer optimum support, if it happens to be the right height for you (sadly it only comes in one depth) then it's a dreamy sleep surface.

That's because its malleable memory foam core is covered by a cover made of silky quilted bamboo rayon. It means it offers a surface your head sinks into a little, and is overall a softer experience. In fact if only the inside was height adjustable (and it slept a little cooler; I found it just a tad too warm), it might be the perfect side sleeping pillow.

As it is, it all comes down to whether its the right height for you. But, a 30-night sleep trial will help you to work this out.

Get the full details in our Panda Hybrid Bamboo Pillow review.

Best soft pillow for side sleepers

There's a reason most pillows for side sleepers are firm or medium-firm, and that's because the head is heavy and needs good stable support. But, there's no denying a soft pillow is a delight to sink into for many of us, and there's no pillow more soft and sumptuous than a high-quality feather and down pillow, like this option from scooms.

The reason I think this soft pillow can still work for a side sleeper is that it's so plush and well-filled that it kept my head raised throughout the night, with less sinkage than any other feather and down pillow I've tried. If you're a side sleeper who rests with one arm under your pillow, I think this is also a great option for you; the malleable fill allows space for you to curl an arm up under the pillow.

It's softer filling does mean there's less stability for the neck, so my neck muscles did need to work a lot harder than when I slept on the firm Levitex or Kally Sleep pillows, but, if you just can't get comfortable on a firm sleep surface, this is a great alternative option.

As a hot sleeper, I also found this feather and down pillow the coolest sleep surface to rest my head on. It beat every other pillow in this round-up when it came to breathability. Plus, this is the only pillow in my shortlist that is fully machine washable. The synthetic options have removable covers that can be freshened up, but this pillow can go in the washing machine in its entirety.

The downside (there had to be one of course!) is that it's expensive and there's no sleep trial available. But, if you know you love the feel of feather and down but you're just struggling to find the height for side sleeping, this pillow could be 'the one'.

How I tested

In order to thoroughly test the pillows in this round-up, I've slept on each pillow on my own bed for at least two weeks – in most cases far longer – to assess it for comfort and support when side sleeping.

Firstly, because finding the right height pillow is so key to a comfortable night's sleep as a side sleeper, I assessed whether each pillow comes in multiple height options.

Next, I tested each pillow to see how the filling performed during the night. Would my head sink into the pillow so that my neck was strained? Or did the pillow feel stable enough to keep my head and neck aligned with my spine during the night?

Because no one appreciates the sleep disruption that waking up with a hot head and having to flip a pillow over to find the cool side can cause, I also noted whether each pillow caused me – a self-diagnosed very-hot-sleeper – to overheat.

I then assessed ease of care – could the entire pillow or at least its cover be washed? – and whether the manufacture offers a sleep trial so you can test the pillow out for yourself before you commit to keeping it.

Lastly, I read every third-party review of each pillow I could lay my hands on to see how other owners were finding their pillows, and assessed each pillow's value for money before giving each pillow a star rating out of five.

How to choose

When it comes to how to choose a pillow, your sleeping position is one of *the* main factors to consider. Research published by the National Library of Medicine reports that more than 50% of the population are side sleepers, and just like the best mattress for a side sleeper differs from the best mattress for a back sleeper, the same is true of pillows.

These are the main factors to consider when shopping for a pillow as a side sleeper.

Pillow height: If we're a side sleeper, it's vital to find the right height pillow. That's because we need our head, neck, and spine to be in good alignment while we lie on our side.

As Dave Gibson, registered osteopath, sleep expert, and founder of The Sleep Site, explains, 'if you're a side sleeper, then your pillow should hold your head in the same position as it would be if you were standing upright with good posture. Choose a pillow that's too low and your head will droop, creating pressure in the neck. Choose a pillow that's too high and your neck will be arched upward all night, which tends to leave the neck muscles stiff.'

However, finding the right height pillow can be a challenge, as everyone’s shoulders are of different widths. Wider shoulders mean that we're likely to need more pillow height to keep our neck straight once we're lying on our side, and narrower shoulders mean we'll need less pillow height, so sometimes it can take a little trial and error to get the correct height.

Mattress tension: You also need to factor in your body weight and how soft your mattress is when considering pillow height. As Kora Habinakova, sleep and bedding expert at bedding specialist Sleepseeker, explains, ’lighter individuals are less likely to sink into the mattress and tend to prefer medium-thick pillows that will help to promote optimal spinal alignment when side sleeping. Those with heavier weight considerations are more likely to experience sinkage and may find a thinner pillow helps keep the head level with the spine.’

Pillow firmness: As side sleepers, we also need a stable pillow so that the head doesn't sink during the night. That generally means softer fillings, such as feather and down, are best avoided, and that the best type of pillow filling for a side sleeper is a firm filling, like a firm foam or memory foam. We need our head to be kept lifted up all night, and softer fillings can shift and allow our head to drop, putting strain on the neck.

Sleep trials: Because of these factors, my biggest tip when choosing a pillow as a side sleeper is to look for one that comes with a sleep trial. A sleep trial may differ slightly by retailer, but most allow you to purchase the pillow, sleep on it at home for a set number of nights, and return it for a refund (or sometimes exchange it for a different option) if you find it doesn't suit you. This is invaluable, as it's very easy to waste money on pillows that don't offer enough side sleeping support.

FAQs

Our Hypnos Pillow Top Select mattress review puts one of the brand's most affordable mattresses through its paces to see how it compares to the best mattresses Ideal Home has tested.

Quick review

If you know your Greek gods, then you'll know that Hypnos is the Greek god of sleep, so I went into this Hypnos Select Pillow Top mattress review with some pretty high expectations.

Hypnos the god encouraged deep sleep via a 'horn of sleep-inducing opium', however, I was hopeful that Hypnos the brand would have an alternative means of lulling me into a restorative slumber. And, thankfully, it delivered. In fact, the Hypnos Select Pillow Top mattress offered the best night's sleep I've had in a long time.

The Hypnos Select Pillow Top is a pocket spring mattress topped with a handstitched and hand-tufted 'pillow top' comfort layer that's packed with British wool, and responsibly sourced natural plant-based fibres Himalayan allo, kapok, and cotton.

In practice, I found this meant the mattress offered a great mix of comfort and support, and brilliant breathability. As a hot sleeper who overheats on memory foam or synthetic mattresses, this mattress made from predominantly natural (breathable) materials was a breath of fresh air – literally. It delivered fantastic temperature regulation meaning that hot and sticky 3am wake-ups are now a thing of the past.

This mattress is an investment, but, in my opinion, its quality, comfort, breathability, and the brand's focus on environmental sustainability make it well worth saving up for. In fact, out of all the mattresses I've tested whilst working as Ideal Home's Sleep Editor, this is the mattress I've chosen to sleep on for the past year, and 12 months into owning it I'm still just as happy with its performance.

Hypnos Select Pillow Top mattress review

Specifications

Type: Pillow top
Construction materials: Pocket springs, polyester, wool, Himalayan allo, kapok and cotton
Sizes: Double, King, Superking
Comfort level: Medium
Height: 29cm
Side handles: Yes
Flip or rotate: Rotate
Manufacturer sleep trial: Differs by retailer

1. Comfort

Not only do I test mattresses for a living, meaning I'm fairly hard to impress on the mattress front, but I'm also a fairly tricky customer to please on the sleep front.

I switch between side, back and front sleeping during the night, positions which really require three different mattress types! Ideally a side sleeper needs a softer sleep surface that cushions joints and allows shoulders and hips to sink into the mattress a little to keep the spine aligned when side sleeping, and back and front sleepers need a firmer sleep surface that prevents hips from dipping too low and pressure being put on the lower back and neck. Plus, I also have some shoulder pain after recently tumbling down a hill whilst hiking.

Generally, I'd recommend a memory foam mattress for anyone who side-sleeps with shoulder pain, as the cushioned support that moulds around hips and shoulders is great for easing aching joints. However, my biggest sleep problem is overheating, so I usually find foam and memory foam mattresses too warm for comfort and prefer a pocket spring mattress packed with natural materials for breathability.

That's why I was so excited to try Hypnos Pillow Top Select. I was hoping its construction – with a pocket spring base layer topped with a cushioned 'pillow' comfort layer would mimic the experience of sleeping on a hybrid memory foam mattress, but with more breathable (and sustainable) natural materials. And I wasn't disappointed.

Whilst the pillow top doesn't cocoon your body in the same way as a memory foam mattress – in my opinion, the Tempur Sensation mattress delivers the best body-hugging experience in this regard – that pillow top layer does offer a very welcome layer of softness and cushioning. It gives the mattress a far more luxurious feel than your standard pocket spring construction and makes it the kind of sleep surface that elicits an exhalation of satisfaction when you lie down.

And whereas I've slept on tufted mattresses before and felt every tuft, there's none of that with the Hypnos Pillow Top Select.

That said, at no point did I feel 'enveloped' by the pillow top, which can often be the case with a memory foam mattress. As memory foam becomes more pliable the warmer it gets, body heat activates the memory foam to mould to your body, making you feel a little like you're sinking 'into' the bed depending on the memory foam's firmness level.

For me at least, this is the Goldilocks the mattress world from a comfort perspective – not too soft, not too firm, instead, just right.

2. Responsiveness

Because the Hypnos Select Pillow Top Select has a pocket spring core, it has a good amount of bounce. This is dampened slightly by the pillow top comfort layer, but it still makes for a fairly responsive sleep surface which it's easy to change position on.

This makes a pleasant change from a memory foam or hybrid memory foam mattress where changing position can feel a bit 'sluggish' as you wait for the memory foam to adapt from cradling you in one sleep position to reforming around you in your new posture. It's also good news for anyone with mobility issues who might find rolling over trickier on a memory foam mattress.

3. Motion isolation

If you share your bed with a partner, then a mattress with good motion isolation is essential for getting a better night's sleep. Motion isolation reduces the reverberation of movements through the mattress, so if you or your partner toss and turn at night, that means you're less likely to wake each other up.

Pure foam and hybrid memory foam mattresses are particularly good at motion isolation as the solid foam layer dampens movement. Motion isolation becomes a little more tricky with a sprung mattress, as those springs are designed to provide the mattress with bounce, and that bounce can easily travel from one side of the bed to the other.

To combat this, the Hypnos Select Pillow Top uses pocket springs rather than coil springs. Pocket springs are housed in individual pockets and designed to operate independently of each other, as opposed to coil springs that are connected to each other and move as one unit. Pocket springs, therefore, reduce the likelihood of movement travelling across the mattress, plus they prevent two sleepers of different weights who are sharing a bed from rolling towards each other. And then there's the pillow top, which adds an extra layer of movement-absorbing cushioning to the mattress.

In practice, this meant the Hypnos Select Pillow Top mattress delivered a decent level of motion isolation in our tests. I laid on one side of the mattress whilst my co-tester did an exaggerated job of tossing and turning and jumping on and off of their side of the bed and although I could feel their most extreme movements, simply rolling over didn't cause too much vibration.

The movement dampening isn't as good as a pure foam mattress can deliver – the all-foam Tempur Sensation mattress or all-foam Emma Original mattress are the best mattresses we've tested in this regard – but it was certainly good enough to provide an undisturbed night's sleep with two in the bed. And, if you want more movement dampening from your mattress without going the foam route, then the Hypnos Elite Pillow Top and Hypnos Luxe Pillow Top mattresses both add an additional layer of cushioning natural latex to the mix to absorb movement further.

4. Temperature regulation

I'm a hot sleeper, so a mattress that offers good temperature regulation is a must for me.

It took learning a little about materials science for me to realise that the synthetic and memory foam mattresses I had been sleeping on – and the lack of breathability of these materials – were the main factors behind my disturbed sleep. I'd often wake up around 3am because I was too hot and sticky under the covers, and this interruption of my sleep cycle left me feeling tired and unrested.

As I discovered, our bodies naturally give off heat and moisture during the night, and with a synthetic mattress, this heat and humidity is often reflected back toward the sleeper. Whether foam or memory foam, a synthetic mattress is made of materials that are some variation on polyester or polyurethane – both of these forms of plastic derived from petroleum – and, if you think of their essence as being similar to a plastic bag, it's easy to see why a synthetic mattress can lack breathability and get hot and sweaty pretty quickly!

However, natural fibres, like wool and cotton, are breathable by default. Wool especially does a great job at helping to regulate body temperature and allows humidity to pass through its fibres easily, therefore creating a breathable sleep surface that's ideal for hot sleepers, like me.

The pillow top of the Hypnos Pillow Top Select mattress is packed with wool – up to two fleeces of British wool in its largest sizes in fact – along with a mix of Himalayan allo, kapok, and cotton, that all help to create a cushioned yet lightweight and breathable top layer. The outer surface of the mattress is also covered in woven natural cotton, another breathable non-synthetic fibre.

These breathable materials are paired with the Select mattress' pocket spring base – another feature that helps create airflow through the mattress. In Hypnos' words, the use of 'a single continuous pocket spring creates a ‘bellows-like’ affect that drives cool air around the mattress. This extra breathability ensures better ventilation, helping to reduce moisture and maintain a comfortable body temperature'.

The mattress also features neat metal air vents around all four sides of the mattress – 16 in all on the double mattress – to allow heat to dissipate from the centre of the mattress and fresh air to penetrate and keep things aerated.

All in all, I had high hopes for a cooler night's sleep on this mattress, and I'm happy to report it lived up to all expectations. Since sleeping on the Hypnos Pillow Top Select mattress I've very rarely overheated, even in the height of summer heatwaves. Instead its breathable construction really seems to do the trick and allow my body to regulate its temperature throughout the night leading to a more restful night's sleep.

The Hypnos Pillow Top Select is definitely the coolest mattress I've slept on, and I'm now 100% a convert to natural materials – both for my mattress, and the bedding I put on it.

5. Edge support

When you're choosing a mattress size I'd always recommend opting for the largest mattress your bedroom and budget allow so that no one is sleeping on the edge. However, shrinking home sizes and tight purse strings mean a super king mattress is rarely a viable reality.

If you do find yourself gravitating towards the outer edges of the mattress, then good edge support is what will keep you from rolling off the edge of the bed and onto the floor. Edge support should also keep your body from waking you during the night because it senses that you're about to plummet to the ground, which can be almost as disruptive to a good night's sleep as actually falling! Edge support is also important if you're someone with reduced mobility who can find getting out of bed a little trickier.

The Hypnos Select Pillow Top mattress addresses edge support with its Triple Edge Protection™, a system that uses higher tension pocket springs along the mattress edges to keep your body within the mattress borders.

This worked brilliantly in my tests, with the mattress remaining a flat surface with no dipping at the edges – even when I pushed my luck and laid with half of my body overhanging the mattress edge. It also offers enough resistance to make sitting and standing from the edge of the bed an easy affair.

6. Ease of care

Because of its pillow top, the Hypnos Pillow Top Select is a one-sided mattress, which means that you can only sleep on one of its surfaces, not both. That means it doesn't need flipping over, but instead should be rotated from time to time to ensure even wear and tear.

This is made easier thanks to two side handles on the left and righthand sides of the mattress and two more sturdy handles both top and bottom – a super useful feature that a surprising number of cheaper mattresses tend to scrimp on.

I love the comfort of the Select's pillow top design, but – just like a one-sided hybrid or memory foam mattress – some might question whether a sewn-in pillow top offers optimum longevity. Because the pillow top layer is stitched firmly in place, it can't be replaced. That could mean that if the pillow top layer became compressed in your regular sleeping positions then the whole mattress would need replacing.

A more durable alternative could be to opt for a pocket spring mattress and add your own mattress topper. This would mean you could flip the mattress to use both sides, whilst the detachable mattress topper would offer similar comfort to the pillow top and could be more easily replaced should it become unevenly worn.

That said, I haven't yet tested a natural-fill mattress topper that's as comfortable as the Hypnos Select's pillow top layer. I'll let you know if I do. And although I haven't yet tested this mattress for long enough to see how it performs several years in, Hypnos gives the Select Pillow Top a fairly lengthy guarantee, which is reassurance as to its quality.

7. Sleep trial

It can be very tricky for us to find a mattress that truly suits us, not least because so many variables – such as our preferred sleeping position and body weight – can significantly impact how a mattress feels for different individuals. This is why a sleep trial can be really useful.

A sleep trial usually means that you can buy the mattress and sleep on it in your own home for anywhere between 30 - 365 nights to get a feel for whether its construction suits you.

Hypnos doesn't sell direct from its own website and so doesn't offer a standard sleep trial of its own. However, many of the retailers Hypnos mattresses are sold through offer sleep trials of their own, including John Lewis, Mattressman, and MattressNextDay, amongst others. So, check the small print, and these offer a great way to test drive this investment mattress before you commit.

8. Delivery

Unlike most foam-only mattresses which can be rolled into a convenient box for delivery, the Hypnos Select Pillow Top mattress is delivered flat, wrapped in a sheath of what looks like plastic, but the brand promises is actually eco-packaging derived from plants.

There's no denying that a mattress-in-a-box can be convenient if you have an awkwardly shaped hallway or twisting flight of stairs for the delivery team to navigate, but, as long as you've got your access measurements correct, then there shouldn't be any delivery issues and no decent pocket spring mattress actually benefits from being rolled.

Because Hypnos only sells through third-party stockists, you will just need to check the delivery process of whichever retailer you buy from. Most should offer delivery to the room of your choice, but some charge extra for this and only deliver to your doorstep as standard.

It's also worth considering whether a retailer offers 'white glove delivery'. This is where the mattress is removed from its packaging and installed onto your bed frame (and the packaging removed). Plus, you might also want to consider whether the retailer offers removal and recycling of your old mattress on delivery day – that way you don't need to worry about how to get rid of an old mattress once your new one is on the bed.

Once unpackaged, the natural materials that fill the Hypnos Select Pillow Top mattress also mean that there's none of the unpleasant chemical offgassing smell that tends to go hand-in-hand with unpacking a memory foam mattress. Great news, if like me, you find this pungent memory-foam aroma a headache trigger.

What's more, although this mattress is packed full of natural fillings – including up to two fleeces of British wool – unlike the wool-filled Woolroom Hebridean 3000 mattress I recently reviewed that had a strong 'sheep' smell that lingered for months – the Hypnos Select Pillow Top had no smell at all on unpacking. Bliss!

9. Environmental impact

A mattress that's made from predominantly natural materials is likely to be more expensive than a synthetic mattress, however, it will generally be far more environmentally friendly than one of its synthetic counterparts.

Hypnos has been making mattresses for over 100 years – long before foam and memory foam were invented and adopted by the mattress market as cheaper (yet environmentally damaging) alternatives to traditional mattress construction. The brand still chooses to make its mattresses the traditional way, with a focus on natural and sustainable materials, and a guarantee that every Hypnos mattress is foam-free and 100% recyclable at the end of its lifespan.

Whilst the Hypnos Pillow Top Select mattress isn't entirely made from natural fibres, they do feature heavily in its construction, and Hypnos states that where it does use synthetic polyesters, 'We use polyesters that have been recycled'.

The Select's pillow top layer combines British wool alongside what Hypnos says is 'responsibly sourced' Himalayan allo (a type of giant nettle that's fibres are revered for both their strength and silk-like lightness), kapok (a cotton-like plant fibre procured from the seed pods of trees), and cotton.

These natural materials are mixed with manmade Solotex™, a polymer that the brand says 'unlike foam, allows moisture to dissipate through the mattress to aid breathability', pocket springs, and eOlus™ recycled polyester fibres. Fire retardancy regulations are also met thanks to an odourless treatment derived from natural extracts – perfect if you prefer a chemical-free sleep surface.

Hypnos states that the whole of the Hypnos Select Pillow Top mattress is recyclable at the end of its lifespan, and now packages its products in eco-packaging derived from plants.

In recent years the brand has also demonstrated its commitment to more sustainable design and production by becoming the first carbon-neutral bedmaker in the world. It was a recipient of the Queen's Award for Enterprise for Sustainable Development in 2020, and in 2021 was the first bed-maker to be recognised by the National Bed Federation's (NBF) Sustainability Award for its leading position within the industry and its responsible and sustainable ethos.

All in all, if you're looking for a mattress from a brand that takes its environmental impact seriously, Hypnos does seem to be leading the way in offering a more sustainable approach.

10. Value for money

Hypnos is a British manufacturer with over 100 years of pocket-spring mattress and bed-making know-how under its belt. The brand has a Royal Warrant and is the only bedmaker to actively supply all of the royal residences including Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle, St. James Palace, Balmoral Castle, Sandringham House, The Palace of Holyroodhouse, and Kensington Palace.

The brand's mattresses are also used by Soho House hotels, and up until early 2023 all Premier Inn beds were made by Hypnos, so the mattress-maker knows a thing or two about delivering a good night's sleep.

Add to that the fact that Hypnos mattresses are made the traditional way, with a focus on high quality natural and sustainable materials (rather than cheap to produce yet environmentally problematic foam or memory foam mattresses), and it's easy to see why a Hypnos mattress tends to come with a high price tag.

The Hypnos Select Pillow Top mattress is one of the brand's bestselling 'entry-level' mattresses. However, as of writing, prices start at £1479 RRP and reach £2466 for the super king size, so 'entry-level' doesn't mean cheap.

You can find cheaper natural-fill mattresses, for instance, the Woolroom Beulah mattress currently starts from £775 RRP, but that could mean some sacrifice in comfort. As such, it might mean that paying a little more for a mattress like the Hypnos Pillow Top Select is worth it for you.

How I tested

Usual sleep position: side, front, and back
Tension preference: medium-firm to firm
Sleep problems: overheating, shoulder pain
Height & weight: 5ft 10 & 70kg

In putting the Hypnos Pillow Top Select mattress through Ideal Home's mattress testing process I assessed it for ten factors we deem vital to any successful mattress purchase.

I assessed the mattress for comfort, responsiveness, motion isolation, temperature regulation, and edge support through at home testing. This means that I slept on the mattress for a minimum of two weeks before writing my review – in this case I've slept on the Hypnos Pillow Top Select mattress for a year now.

I also took into consideration ease of care, the delivery process, any sleep trials available, value for money, and, where possible, third-party feedback from other verified owners before writing my review and giving this mattress a star rating.

As Ideal Home’s Sleep Editor, one thing I get asked more than any other is ‘how many pillows should you sleep with?’.

This seems to be a question that confuses a lot of us, and I’m no exception. At various points in my life, I’ve slept with one, two, and sometimes even three pillows under my head.

However, in the course of compiling Ideal Home’s guide to the best pillows and numerous conversations with sleep and bedding experts, I’ve discovered the definitive answer. And it might surprise you as it did me.

How many pillows should you sleep with? The answer is one. But that isn’t all you need to know. Although expert advice says you should sleep with only one singular pillow, it needs to be the right pillow. I enlisted some sleep experts to help me explain.

When it comes to how to choose a pillow, finding the right pillow for you is all about spinal alignment.

‘The purpose of a pillow is to support your head and align your neck and spine while you lie down,’ clarifies Kora Habinakova, sleep and bedding expert from bedding retailer Sleepseeker.

As Kora goes on to explain, if your pillow doesn’t help you to maintain a well-aligned neck and spine during the night, this can lead to ‘discomfort, stiffness, and even pain in the neck, shoulders, and back. It can also exacerbate existing spinal conditions or lead to new ones over time.'

Where it gets a little more complicated, is that our usual sleeping position – that’s whether we sleep on our side, back, or stomach – can affect what type of pillow will offer the best spinal alignment, and how many pillows you should sleep with.

Because, yes, despite the golden rule of only sleeping with one pillow, there is one type of sleeping position that requires two – you just don’t use the second pillow where you might think!

How many pillows should you sleep with as a side sleeper?

If you're someone who usually lays on either your left or right hand side to go to sleep, then you should sleep with just one pillow under your head.

But, to keep your spine and neck in good alignment whilst you're laid on your side, you'll need a higher and more supportive pillow than a back or front sleeper. Your body frame matters too; side sleepers with wider shoulders will need a higher pillow than side sleepers with narrow shoulders.

Some of the best pillows for side sleepers I've tested are the high and firm Panda Memory Foam Pillow, which is great for larger builds, or the adjustable Simba Hybrid Pillow if you prefer a softer pillow and have a narrower frame.

However, this is one sleep position where experts advise that two pillows are actually the better solution, you just don't put the second pillow under your head. Instead, it goes between your legs!

'When sleeping on your side, your spine can pull out of alignment and cause pain in your lower back and hips,’ explains sleep expert Kora. Because of this, registered osteopath, sleep expert, and founder of The Sleep Site, Dave Gibson, suggests, 'side sleepers may benefit from sleeping with a pillow between the knees.'

How many pillows should you sleep with as a back sleeper?

Expert advice says that back sleepers should sleep with one single pillow under the head. However, you'll need a different type of pillow than a side sleeper requires to keep your spine in good alignment.

A back sleeper should opt for a lower pillow that doesn't lift the head too far from the bed. As sleep expert Kora specifies, back sleepers should choose a pillow that is 'three to five inches thick with firmness and height to support the neck's natural curvature, without forcing your head forward and onto your chest.’

I've found the well-cushioned Panda Hybrid Bamboo Pillow or plump The White Company Luxury Hungarian Goose Down Pillow are good options.

However, yet again, you might want to sneak in an extra pillow elsewhere. 'For added comfort, place a small pillow under your knees to reduce pressure on your lower back,' suggests osteopath Dave Gibson.

How many pillows should you sleep with as a front sleeper?

According to sleep expert Kora, front sleepers should opt for either one thin pillow or none at all to minimise potential strain on the neck.

I've found the Dorma Hungarian Goose Down Soft Support Pillow a very good soft and low loft option for stomach sleeping.

However, osteopath Dave Gibson has a warning. 'I recommend that you learn to sleep in another position if this is your usual sleep position.' As Dave goes on to share, that's because stomach sleeping 'twists the neck and can cause long-term strain'.

FAQs

Is it better to sleep with one or two pillows

The advice from all of the osteopaths and bedding experts I've consulted is that it's much better for your spinal alignment to sleep with only one pillow under your head. But, it needs to be the right height for your sleeping position.

And, you might want to add a second pillow between your legs to keep your hips aligned if you're a side sleeper, or under your lower back if you're a back sleeper.

Is three pillows too much?

According to our sleep experts, you should only have one pillow under your head at night. So yes, three pillows is probably too much for most people.

But, this is a general rule. The idea is that one pillow means your neck and spine are resting in the best possible alignment all night, but there can be many medical reasons why you might need more pillows, such as difficulty breathing or discomfort.

How many pillows is too many pillows to sleep with?

Our experts say that you should only sleep with one pillow under your head, so any more than that is 'too many pillows'.

You should sleep with ‘only one pillow,' confirms sleep expert Kora, 'and the pillow should align your head to be the same height as the rest of your body when you sleep.’

If you add more pillows under your head, it's unlikely your neck and spine will still be in good alignment, and this can lead to neck pain.

So there we go, the answer to how many pillows you should sleep with answered once and for all.

However, this isn't the only question you might have about how to sleep better.

If you're wondering what pillow filling to choose, our guide to the best filling for a pillow explains all. And, if you've just discovered you're sleeping on too many pillows and need to get rid of some, or know your pillows have seen better days, our guides to how often to replace a pillow and how to recycle a pillow can help.

How many pillows do you usually sleep on? And has our expert advice made you rethink your sleeping habits? Let us know in the comments!

How often should you wash your pillows? If you’re asking that question, then first up, congratulations on realising this bedding essential actually *needs* washing! I think many of us – if we were honest – might admit to not having considered making pillow washing a part of our regular laundry routine.

Washing our pillowcases, sheets, and duvet covers regularly; of course. (Hopefully. And if not you definitely should be!). But washing the actual pillow itself? Perhaps not.

However, not only is learning how to wash a pillow easier than we might think, experts also advise that we should be doing it a lot more frequently than we probably are; every three to six months in fact.

But there are important factors that might mean you should do it even more often, especially if you suffer from allergies or asthma. I asked a range of household cleaning and bedding experts for their advice.

How often should you wash your pillows

'I’d generally recommend washing your pillows every 3 to 6 months,' says household cleaning expert Petya Holevich of Fantastic Services. 'However, if you struggle with allergies, asthma, or another type of chronic health condition, you’ll need to wash them more frequently, around every 3 to 4 months instead.'

'I recommend washing pillows as frequently as every 3 months, especially if you have allergies such as asthma, or if the pillow has been exposed to sweat, oils, or other contaminants,' agrees Emily Barron, cleaning expert at Property Rescue .

'Pillows should be washed every three months,' confirms Lucy Ackroyd, head of design at bedding brand Christy, 'as, similar to bedding, they contain a build-up of sweat and dead skin'.

It seems the expert advice is unanimous and we should all be washing our pillows every three to six months, but *why* should we wash our pillows this regularly?

Well, even the best pillows aren't self-cleaning. Although we’re hopefully all using a pillowcase to protect our pillow from direct contact with our head, sweat, body oils, hair grease, drool, and dead skin cells can still penetrate the pillowcase and get onto our pillow. Yuck.

You might notice that over time this can lead to yellowing of your pillow. 'Yellow stains on pillows can be caused by various factors,' explains cleaning expert Petya. The most common causes are ‘sweat and natural body oils produced by your skin, saliva from drooling during sleep, going to bed with wet hair, and makeup and skincare products.'

And, when it comes to how to get rid of yellow stains on pillows, a regular washing routine is key.

In addition, over time pillows can also accumulate allergens like pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and even mould, which can trigger allergic reactions in those who suffer. That’s why frequent washing is so important.

However, there is a caveat. The frequency with which you wash your pillows, and how you wash them, also depends on their filling.

'Synthetic pillows made from polyester can be washed more frequently and can withstand higher temperatures in the washing machine,' explains Emily. That means that microfibre and hollowfibre-filled pillows should be fine to wash as frequently as you like. If you suffer from allergies, that could mean polyester is the best filling for a pillow.

But how about other fillings, can you wash feather pillows the same way? 'Natural down or feather pillows may require more delicate care, such as dry cleaning or hand-washing, and should be washed less frequently,' says Emily. 'Down and feather pillows will require less frequent washing than synthetic pillows. However, it still needs to be done periodically,' agrees Petya.

It's also important to note that even the best memory foam pillows can't usually be washed. So, if you suffer from allergies and think you may want to wash your pillow more frequently, this is something to bear in mind when it comes to how to choose the right pillow for you.

That said, Petya has a top tip to keep pillows that can't be washed as frequently in tip-top condition. 'Use pillow protectors,' she says, 'these are washable and act as a barrier preventing stains from forming and allergens from reaching your pillow itself.'

Yes, in the same way that one of the best mattress protectors will defend your mattress from stains, a pillow protector will shield your favourite pillow, meaning you might not need to wash it quite so frequently. Here are three of our top recommendations.

Of course, no matter how often you wash your pillow it isn't going to last forever, and there will still come a time when you have to bite the bullet and replace it. How often should you replace your pillow? Every two years according to the experts.

But a regular cleaning schedule will prolong your pillow's lifespan and create a healthier sleep environment for you in the meantime.

So, when did you last wash your pillow? If you're brave enough to reveal all let us know in the comment section!

If you’re wondering how to wash a pillow, then we’re here to help. Most of us know how to wash pillowcases, but washing the actual pillow inside can be a little bit trickier.

However, thanks to the help of our trusted cleaning experts we’ve created a simple step-by-step guide to cleaning this bedding essential.

That’s good news if you’ve just invested in one of the best pillows for your bed, as a regular cleaning routine will help to keep your pillow in tip-top condition for longer.

So, without further ado, lets find out how to wash (and dry) a pillow for the best results.

How to wash pillows: a step-by-step guide

1. Strip the bed

First up, you’ll want to remove your pillow cases and any pillow protectors you’re using. This could be a good time to wash the rest of your bedding too, so you might also want to strip your duvet and sheets from the bed ready to put in the washing machine.

2. Check the care label

Next up, check the care label. Depending on what type of filling your pillow contains, it will have different care requirements. So make sure you read the manufacturer care instructions before you begin cleaning.

‘Different types of pillows will require different methods of cleaning,’ explains Fantastic Services' house cleaning expert, Petya Holevich.

‘For example, down or feather pillows may need to be dry-cleaned, while synthetic pillows can usually be washed in the washing machine. To determine the best cleaning method, read the label instructions and see if it’s safe to wash yours in the washing machine.’

3. Clean your pillow according to the care instructions

Next, it’s time to get cleaning according to those care instructions. As mentioned, the approach you take will largely depend on the pillow filling, so we’ve broken down the main methods of cleaning for each pillow type below.

Microfibre, hollowfibre, and polyester pillows

'Most synthetic pillows can be washed in the washing machine and dried in the dryer,' says Petya Holevich. 'Run them on a gentle cycle with warm water and mild laundry detergent.'

'I’d recommend machine washing your pillows in pairs so their weight will be balanced. It’s also best to add half the amount of detergent you normally would to a laundry load and run an extra rinse cycle to remove all the soap residue.'

Hayley Thistleton, bedding and sleep expert at Sleepseeker agrees, saying, 'your pillow really needs to be completely free of any soap whatsoever before it's dried, so you may want to try using a wash setting with an extra spin cycle, just to make sure.'

As long as the care instructions give you the go ahead, Petya then recommends we 'tumble dry the pillows on low heat with dryer balls or clean tennis balls to help keep them fluffy.'

'Remember to let them dry completely before using them again,' advises Petya. 'Otherwise, the moisture left on the pillow can result in mould and mildew growth, which can make your sleeping environment unhealthy.'

Feather and down pillows

When it comes to washing feather and down pillows the expert advice is to proceed with caution. It can be done, but any washing should be far less frequent than with a synthetic pillow.

‘Regular washing should be avoided to ensure the filler remains at its best and most efficient,' explains Laura Burnett, buyer at Feather & Black.

Again, check the care label first. 'Most feather and down pillows can be hand-washed or dry-cleaned, but just to be safe, check the label for specific instructions beforehand,' says Petya.

'If you’re hand washing them, use a mild laundry detergent and cold water and rinse them thoroughly. Put them in a tumble dryer on low heat and dry them with dryer balls or clean tennis balls.' Or dry them outdoors if they can't be tumble-dried. Whichever option you use just remember to make sure they're fully dry before they go back on the bed.

'After washing, make sure to fluff your pillows daily to remove any settled dust and maintain their shape,' adds Petya.

Latex and memory foam pillows

It may come as a surprise to you that even the best memory foam pillows can't be washed. Many have removable covers that can be, but the inner memory foam core doesn't react well to water.

'Memory foam pillows shouldn’t be washed in the washing machine or soaked in water because the friction can break the foam,' says Petya.

'Instead, spot-clean any stains with a mild laundry detergent and water. To freshen up the pillow, sprinkle baking soda on the surface and let it sit for a few hours before vacuuming it.'

Any pillow that can't be washed

As you can see, not all pillows are created equal when it comes to washing. So if you have allergies or know you prefer to wash your pillow frequently, this can be an important factor in how to choose the right pillow for you. The best filling for a pillow is a careful balance of comfort and ease of care.

However, if you've chosen a wool-filled pillow or a feather-and-down pillow that says it can't be washed or dry-cleaned, don't worry. There are still ways to freshen it up, at least if you have a sunny day on your side.

'The best way to keep pillows clean, fresh, bacteria and toxin-free and to ensure they last, is to air them in the sunshine on the washing line at least four times a year, preferably at the start of each season', says Rhiannon Johns, Interior Designer and Head of Brand, at Piglet in Bed. 'The sunshine sterilises the wool and the cotton and the warmth of the sun will encourage any moisture trapped within the wool to be wicked away.'

'You can hang them outdoors every now and then on a sunny day monthly to remove any bad smells,' agrees Petya.

FAQs

Can you wash a pillow in the washing machine?

Yes, you can wash a pillow in the washing machine, as long as the care instructions give you the green light to do so. Just make sure to follow the manufacturers advice for the temperature setting and type of machine cycle to use.

How often should you wash pillows

We now know how to wash a pillow, but you might also want to know how often you should be washing a pillow. The expert advice is every 3 to 6 months, although you may want to wash your pillow more often if you suffer from health conditions such as allergies or asthma to remove pollen, dander, dust, or other irritants more regularly.

How do you get the yellow out of pillows?

Yellow stains on pillows are extremely common and normally the result of body oils and sweat. But you can usually remove them by following the care instructions above. Check out our guide to how to get rid of yellow stains on pillows for the full lowdown.

And if you've been wondering if you should buy a pillow protector, then yes, it can be well worth using one to prevent those stains in the first place.

What is the secret to washing pillows?

The secret to succesfully washing pillows is generally as simple as following the care instructions on your pillow's care label. That's because depending on its filling the best type of care can differ.

However, our experts also have two top tips if you're washing your pillows in a washing machine; wash a pair of pillows at the same time to balance your load, and add a tennis ball to the tumble dryer to fluff them back up.

So there we go, everything you need to know to freshen up what goes under your head. But of course, keeping your bed clean and fresh doesn't end there. If you're also wondering how to wash a duvet or how to clean a mattress, our dedicated cleaning guides can help.

How do you go about washing your pillows? Do you have any top tricks up your sleeve? Let us know in the comments!

Finding the best pillow for your sleep style is key to a good night's sleep. That's because – as you may already have realised if you’re tossing and turning at night squishing your current pillow into all kinds of shapes to try and get comfy – when it comes to pillows, one size doesn't fit all.

Just like shopping for the best mattress, finding the best pillow for your best night’s sleep depends on several factors, including your preferred sleeping position – i.e., whether you’re a back, stomach, or side sleeper – your body build, how firm a pillow you like, and your preferred choice of filling.

So with all this to factor in, how do you find the right pillow for you? That's where I come in. I'm Ideal Home's Sleep Editor, and alongside our wider review team, I've spent the last five years putting well over 50 pillows through their paces.

I've tested pillows from all the leading brand names and every loft, filling, and construction possible to bring you my top recommendations below.

The quick list

Short on time? This quick list is an overview of the very best pillows I've tested. You'll find more information on each pillow and why I recommend it if you keep on scrolling.

Best pillows – tried and tested

Best pillow for side sleepers

Side sleeping is the most popular sleeping position, and as such, there are a *lot* of pillows that are aimed specifically at side sleepers on the market. I've tested over 50 of them, and overall, I think the Woolroom Natural Latex Washable Wool Pillow is one of the best pillows for side sleepers available.

The thing I like most about it is its natural latex core. Latex is still a fairly unusual pillow filling, but if you sleep on your back or your side, it's by *far* my favourite fill to opt for. That's because it offers great support, but unlike foam or memory foam, it doesn't feel dense or hard. Instead, it has a lovely amount of 'give' and bounce, a little like resting your head on a very firm jelly!

That support is particularly important for side sleeping, because in this sleeping position, we need a pillow that will keep our head raised up and in alignment with our spine. This material offers that height, but without the block-like feel that's common in memory foam or foam pillows. In comparison to most other side sleeper pillows I've tested, the Woolroom Natural Latex Washable Wool Pillow feels a lot more luxurious.

Even better, thanks to its latex core with airholes and a cotton and wool-quilted cover, this pillow is breathable, and that means a cool sleep. I've overheated on pretty much every memory foam or foam pillow for side sleepers that I've tested, but not so with this latex option.

This pillow also comes in two height options, a 15cm and an 18cm depth. This choice is important for side sleeping because the width of our shoulders and the softness of our mattress will affect the height of the pillow we need to keep our head, neck, and spine aligned when we're lying on our side.

This pillow isn't cheap, but having tested a *lot* of other options aimed specifically at side sleepers, I do think it's worth it. Plus, it's made from fully traceable, responsibly sourced, all-natural materials with no harmful chemicals. Even better, a 30-night sleep trial means there's plenty of opportunity to test out if it's for you before you commit.

Best pillow for back sleepers

I really love the Panda Hybrid Bamboo Pillow. I found it really comfortable for back sleeping, but it's also a decent pillow for a side sleeper (especially one who has narrowish shoulders) which makes it a good choice if you're an active sleeper who tends to change your sleeping position in the night.

It has a medium loft that isn't too high or too low and a squishy memory foam core that offers a great mix of support and cushioning. Unlike most memory foam pillows, it also feels really luxurious. It can almost give a top-end feather and down pillow a run for its money.

Its silky smooth bamboo rayon cover, a layer of quilted microfibre, and a squishy memory foam core create a premium feeling pillow, and I loved the feeling of sinking my head into it at night.

Its synthetic core does sleep a little warmer than a pillow filled with natural materials, but it sleeps cooler than most synthetic options. Plus, a 30-night sleep trial makes this pillow's high price tag a little more palatable. That return period allows you to sleep on it – literally – to test out whether you think it's worth the money before you commit.

My Panda Hybrid Bamboo Pillow has the full detail.

Best pillow for stomach sleepers

Before we begin, it's perhaps worth mentioning that every sleep expert I've ever spoken to has told me that stomach sleeping is bad for your neck. And as someone who happily slept on their front for many years, before having to switch to side sleeping because my neck began complaining, I would personally advise avoiding this sleep position if you can.

However, if there are reasons you need to sleep on your front, this is the most comfortable pillow I've found to do so. Because stomach sleeping puts so much pressure on your neck, I always found I needed a very low and soft pillow for front sleeping, and this goose feather and down pillow in the medium loft delivers.

It feels super soft and squishy, and doesn't have too much filling, which means the pillow doesn't lift your head too far from the bed. And, because I was always an active sleeper who often started off sleeping on my back or side and then switched onto my front during the night, I loved the fact that I could squish the pillow filling into the right height, whichever sleeping position I was in. You can't do that with a polyester, memory foam, or latex pillow.

The other *big* bonus is that, unlike so many (often far more expensive) feather and down pillows I've tested, I've owned this pillow for nearly four years, and there are still barely any feathers escaping.

Plus, as a hot sleeper, I *love* the fact that, unlike pillows with synthetic fillings, a feather and down never makes me overheat. There's never any pillow flipping in search of the cool side with this pillow.

Best pillow for neck pain

In my hunt for the best pillow for neck pain, I've found that the Levitex Sleep Posture Pillow is one of the best pillows to try if you're suffering from a sore neck.

Firstly, this pillow comes with a 44-night sleep trial. That means you can test it out at home (by actually sleeping on it) before you commit to keeping it. I've found that when searching for a pillow to prevent neck pain, you can easily spend a lot of money on pillows that aren't the right fit for your body. A sleep trial means those 'mistakes' on the journey to a pain-free sleep aren't so costly.

Second, it's one of the few pillows on the market that's available in four height options. This is important because a lot of neck pain is caused, or made worse, by a pillow that's too high or too low. Ideally, we all need a pillow that keeps our head and neck in the same alignment with our spine when we're lying down, as it would be if we were standing up straight. A pillow that's too high or too low can put pressure on the neck and create pain.

That's why the fact that the Levitex pillow comes in 8, 10, 12, and 14cm depths is such a game-changer. I simply input my usual sleep position, height, and mattress tension into the Levitex 'find your pillow size' online calculator, and it advised a pillow height that fit my body perfectly.

And third, whilst it took me a while to get used to the pillow's firm 'block-like' feel, I soon discovered that that firmness is another big plus point for neck pain relief. Unlike memory foam, polyester, or feather and down pillow fillings, which all slowly sink under the weight of the head, this pillow's foam core is *very* stable. That meant it kept my head, neck, and spine aligned all night long, rather than the filling gradually shifting and my head dropping, which tends to trigger my neck pain.

The main downside is that I do miss the luxury of a little 'squish' in my pillow. If either of the two height options in the Woolroom Natural Latex Washable Wool Pillow are the right height for your body frame, I find that pillow a more luxurious choice for neck pain. But the Levitex Sleep Posture Pillow's extra two height options are invaluable for others.

My Levitex Sleep Posture Pillow review has the full lowdown.

Best memory foam pillow

All things considered, the Panda Memory Foam Pillow is one of the best memory foam pillows I've tested.

Many memory foam pillows can feel a lot like sleeping with a solid block under your head, but the Panda Memory Foam Pillow has just a little more give for a slightly more cushioned feel without losing any of its height.

Although it sleeps warmer than a natural-fill pillow, its synthetic memory foam core is still one of the most breathable memory foams I've slept on. Plus, its removable and machine washable cover is a nice touch, although I did find that cute embroidered Panda logo showed through white pillowcases a little.

However, best of all, is its price. Considering how well-designed and premium it feels, it has a very reasonable price point. Even better, Panda offers it with a 30 night sleep trial, which is a great length of time to test it out and see if it's the right pillow choice for you.

My Panda Memory Foam Pillow review has more details.

Best feather and down pillow

I've tested a lot of feather and down pillows, and overall, I think the scooms Hungarian Goose Down Pillow is one of the best you can buy.

I tested the soft-medium support pillow (there's also a medium-firm option) and I found its super plump filling a good height for back sleeping and a great height for side sleeping. It delivers that 'just right' mix of comfort and support thanks to the combination of a Hungarian goose feather inner core surrounded by a softer, squashier layer of goose down.

Plus, the joy of a feather and down pillow – especially one with a high ratio of down to feathers, such as this – is that it's super malleable, so I found I could squish it to be higher or lower to get it to fit into the gap between my shoulder and neck perfectly.

As a hot sleeper, I also found I slept much cooler on this feather and down pillow than any synthetic-filled pillow I've tried. That's because the natural filling offers great breathability. Unlike many feather and down pillows I've tested, its Nomite-certified dustmite-proof cover also prevents any filling from escaping – I'm yet to discover any stray feathers when I change the bed.

Although it is an investment, it delivers a real sense of hotel-style luxury at home.

Best adjustable height pillow

As I've mentioned, finding the best pillow for your body is all about finding the right pillow height to fit both your sleeping position and your individual body frame.

This can be challenging, as we are all built differently, which is why an adjustable-height pillow is such an ingenious concept. I've tested a few different options over the past five years, from the Simba Hybrid Pillow to the Emma Premium Cloud Pillow, and all in all, I think the Fine Bedding Adjustable HoneyFoam Pillow is one of the best customisable pillows we've tested.

That's because it contains individual memory foam 'HoneyFoam clusters' that can be added or removed to make the pillow into the exact right height you need for side, back, or front sleeping.

That memory foam is also more sustainable than most, and our reviewer Jennifer found it slept cooler than similar options. She also enjoyed its soft, plump feel, saying, 'I found my head stayed nicely cradled in one place throughout the night. That meant that during my four-week testing period, I've been waking with a less stiff neck and shoulder.'

The only downside is that, unlike Simba and Emma's adjustable options, the Fine Bedding Adjustable HoneyFoam Pillow doesn't come with a sleep trial. If that's a dealbreaker for you, you'll find Simba and Emma's adjustable pillows in our also tested section below.

Our Fine Bedding Adjustable HoneyFoam Pillow tells more.

Best cooling pillow

If you're looking for the best cooling pillow, it's likely you're currently sleeping on a synthetic hollowfibre or microfibre pillow, or a memory foam pillow, that is making your head too hot at night.

The simplest solution is to opt for a feather and down pillow instead. This natural pillow filling has much better breathability, and in my experience, a feather and down pillow always offers the coolest sleep.

However, if you're vegan or prefer a firm pillow, feather and down won't be for you. So instead, I'll also suggest the best cooling pillow made from man-made fibres, which in my opinion is any of Tempur's SmartCool pillow collection.

These pillows are made from memory foam, so they feel firmer than any feather and down pillow, but as someone who usually overheats on memory foam, I can confirm the SmartCool covers are exactly that: smart enough to feel cool to the touch, whatever the weather, which is bliss to this hotheaded sleeper.

As a side sleeper, I prefer the firm ergonomic Tempur Original SmartCool Pillow that comes in three height options, but if you're a back sleeper, the lower and squishier TEMPUR Cloud SmartCool Pillow is also great. A 30-night sleep trial also makes their hefty price tag a little easier to swallow; at least you know you can return it if it isn't right for you.

Best firm pillow

If you're looking for a firm pillow, it doesn't get much firmer than the Simba's CustomFlex Pillow (previously known as the Simba Hybrid Firm Pillow). In fact, I have to admit this pillow is far *too* firm for my liking. I actually found it gave me an earache! But multiple of my firm-loving pillow testers say this is their very favourite pillow and sleep on it every night, so I'm going to bow to their opinions on this.

The reason this pillow is so much firmer than most is that it contains springs. Yep, it's the only pillow I know of that contains an actual spring layer, and that makes it almost like a mini mattress for your head.

The other plus point of this pillow is that its height is customisable. All in all, there are three layers stuffed into its outer case: the titanium alloy micro springs layer, and then two layers filled with recycled polyester to soften those springs a little.

That means you can play around adjusting the comfort and support layers, and alter the height of the pillow, which is particularly useful for side sleepers.

The downsides are that despite the cooling tech in its outer cover, I found it still slept a little warmer than I would have liked. And – the big one – its £159 price point is eyewatering. Plus, Simba no longer seems to offer a sleep trial on its pillows, which makes it a risky investment.

However, both our reviewer Richard and experienced bedding expert Zoe wouldn't be without it, so if nothing else is proving as firm as you like, this pillow may well be worth the investment for you.

See what my fellow pillow tester Richard thought in his Simba CustomFlex Pillow review.

Quick comparisons

Also tested

How we test pillows

Before creating this shortlist, I slept on each pillow for at least three nights (in most cases far longer) on my own bed to assess its comfort when side, back, and stomach sleeping.

I also noted how warm each pillow slept – i.e., if it caused my head to get hot during the night or if I stayed cool and fresh – after all, no one wants to wake up with a sweaty head! Plus, I considered how easy each pillow is to care for, whether it comes with a sleep trial, and its value for money.

This guide includes only those pillows that performed the very best during my tests. I regularly update this guide and remove any pillows that don't make the grade long-term, whether that's due to escaping feathers, not washing well, or flattening over time.

Where to buy the best pillows

Wondering where to shop? I've rounded up a quick list of the best places to buy a new pillow.

• Amazon: affordable synthetic pillows
• Argos: affordable pillows of all types
• Dunelm: affordable pillows of all types
• John Lewis: high-quality pillows of all types
• Kally Sleep: pillows for neck pain
• M&S: high-quality pillows of all types
• Panda: high-quality memory foam pillows
• scooms: high-quality feather and down pillows
• Simba: height-adjustable synthetic pillows
• Soak & Sleep: high-quality pillows of all types
• The White Company: high-quality feather and down pillows
• Woolroom: high-quality wool pillows

How to choose a pillow

As I've mentioned, finding the best pillow for your best night’s sleep isn't a one-size-fits-all affair, and it's important to get it right.

As Kora Habinakova, sleep and bedding expert from bedding specialist Sleepseeker, explains, ‘the purpose of a pillow is to support your head and align your neck and spine while you lie down’. But get it wrong, and misalignment between the neck and spine can create ‘discomfort, stiffness, and even pain in the neck, shoulders, and back,' says Kora. 'It can also exacerbate existing spinal conditions or lead to new ones over time.'

So, finding the right pillow for you will depend on a few key considerations. These include your regular sleep position – i.e. whether you’re a front, back, or side sleeper – your body frame, whether you prefer a firm or a soft pillow, and if you have any preferences about the materials your pillow contains.

You can find more detailed buying advice in our guide to how to choose a pillow, but here's a quick checklist of the four main considerations.

1. Sleeping position

Your usual sleeping position is key to your pillow choice, because this affects the pillow height (also known as loft) that you need.

As Dave Gibson registered osteopath, sleep expert, and founder of The Sleep Site explains, 'your pillow should hold your head in the same position as it would be if you were standing upright with good posture. Too low and your head falls back creating pressure in the neck. Too high and it tends to leave the neck muscles stiff'.

This means a side sleeper generally needs a high pillow, a back sleeper a low to medium-height pillow, and a stomach sleeper a very thin pillow.

2. Your body frame

One of the things that makes finding the perfect pillow so difficult is that all of us are built differently, and this often affects the height of pillow we need. This isn't quite such a factor for back or stomach sleepers, but it's a *big* consideration if you're a side sleeper.

This is because the ideal pillow for a side sleeper should fit snugly between the ear and the mattress when we're lying on our side, without the head dropping down or raised too far up, both of which can cause neck pain. Think of the neck and spine as one long tube, and we want to keep that tube as straight as possible with no kinks.

Where this can cause problems is that all of us have different shoulder widths. So those of us with wide shoulders will need a higher pillow for comfortable side sleeping than those of us with narrow shoulders. This means that one side sleeper's ideal pillow isn't necessarily going to be the dream for another side sleeper.

Adjustable height pillows, or those with multiple height options (such as the Levitex Sleep Posture Pillow), can be very useful here. You might also have to accept that it will take a little trial and error to find your perfect pillow height. And in this case, a pillow sleep trial is like gold; more on that in a minute.

3. Firm or soft?

Your sleeping position can also affect which pillow firmness is best for you.

A side sleeper needs a firm pillow that keeps the head lifted during the night. Whereas a back sleeper might prefer a medium-firm or soft pillow that cushions and cradles the back of the head. A front sleeper needs a far softer pillow that won't lift the neck too far from the mattress.

4. Filling type

Your choice of pillow filling may also be dictated by the type of support you need; for instance, memory foam is best for firm support, and feather and down, microfibre or hollowfibre can offer medium or soft support.

However, each filling also has its own pros and cons. For example, natural fillings such as wool or feather and down tend to sleep a lot cooler than synthetic fillings. Our guide to the best filling for a pillow has more information.

5. Sleep trial

My last tip is to try and make the most of a sleep trial when it comes to choosing a pillow.

A sleep trial generally means that you buy the pillow and then have a set number of nights to trial sleeping on the pillow on your own bed. Terms and conditions may apply, but if you don't like the pillow, you can usually then return it for a refund within the trial period, or swap it for an alternative pillow.

Not all pillow manufacturers offer this feature, but many – such as scooms, Panda, Tempur, and more – now do. Because choosing a pillow isn't one-size-fits-all, a sleep trial is a great way to avoid wasting money on a pillow that ends up not being the right fit for you.

FAQs

Finding the best pillow for your needs is a key component of how to sleep better. However, it isn't the only important piece of bedding you need to know about.

As well as a comfortable mattress, you'll also want to source the best duvet, and potentially the best mattress topper for your bed. Luckily, we've tested numerous options to help you find the best products for your sleep setup.

If you didn’t sleep that well last night, it could be your pillows to blame. Perhaps you’re finding them less comfortable than they used to be, in which case you might be wondering how often you should replace a pillow.

The answer might surprise you. I asked multiple sleep experts how often you should change your pillows and the unanimous response was; every two years. That’s way more frequently than I expected!

But, there are caveats. According to our bedding experts, the type of pillow you’re sleeping on affects how often it will need replacing.

As such, I’ve outlined how long each type of pillow lasts, how you can tell when a pillow needs changing, and how to prolong the lifespan of your pillow below. This way, once you’ve found the best pillow for your sleep needs, you can keep it in tip-top condition for longer.

How often should you replace your pillows?

‘As a general rule of thumb, we recommend replacing pillows at least every two years,’ says Fabio Perrotta, director of buying at bedding brand Dreams.

'We recommend changing your pillows with no more than two years of use, as they’re unlikely to be providing your spine with the necessary support for a good night’s sleep after that point,' agrees Jackie Shephard, head of homeware at bedding and furnishing specialists Terrys.

And good support and spinal alignment is vital for a good night's sleep, whether you're using one of the best pillows for side sleepers, or a pillow designed for front or back sleepers.

However, Fabio goes on to explain that ‘some styles of pillow have a shorter lifespan and will need replacing more often than others.’ So what are these types of pillow, and how long should each style of pillow last?

Sleep expert Martin Seeley from bedding retailer MattressNextDay gives the following guidelines on how long different types of pillows tend to last:

• Microfibre or hollowfibre pillows are likely to deteriorate fastest. The synthetic filling can become compressed over time and get lumpy. Expect a 1 to 2 year lifespan.
• Feather and down pillows tend to be at their best for around 2 years. It depends on the quality you buy, but the filling can still wear down over time.
• Memory foam pillows usually only need to be replaced every 3 to 5 years.
• Latex pillows can also hold their shape over time, resulting in a lengthy timespan of 3 to 5 years.

This said, your pillow’s longevity isn’t the only thing you should consider when it comes buying a pillow. The best filling for a pillow will depend on your sleep style - such as whether you’re a side, back, or front sleeper, and any additional needs you have, such as being a hot sleeper or suffering from allergies. Our guide to how to choose a pillow can help here.

How do I know when my pillow needs replacing?

So we have a rough gauge of how long a pillow should last, but how do you know when a pillow needs replacing?

‘There are many ways of knowing when it is time to replace your pillow,’ continues Chris Tattersall, sleep expert and managing director of wool bedding brand, Woolroom. ‘The first and most obvious one is when it starts to smell, turns yellow and there are noticeable, permanent stains from body sweat and oil. Aside from this, you might start to wake up with aches and pains, particularly in your neck or shoulders, or begin getting headaches.’

In a nutshell, the following are all signs that your pillow needs replacing:

• Your pillow feels lumpy or the filling has clumped together
• Your pillow is stained, discoloured or smells unpleasant
• Your pillow has lost height and feels flat and compressed

If this is all sounding familiar and you're realising your trusty old pillow might no longer be offering you the best nights sleep, these are three of our tried-and-tested favourite pillows for side, back and front sleepers.

How to prolong the lifespan of your pillow

Although no pillow is going to last forever – even the best memory foam pillows are going to give up the ghost at some point – there are two main ways to prolong the lifespan of your pillow.

Firstly, wash your pillow regularly following the instructions on its care label. If you’re wondering how often you should wash your pillow, that’s roughly every 3-6 months, although you might want to do it more often if you’re prone to sweating or have allergies.

Our guide to how to wash a pillow explains everything you need to know about caring for your pillow, but it’s worth noting not all pillows can be washed. You can generally wash feather pillows and synthetic microfibre and hollowfibre pillows (just check the care label first), but memory foam and latex pillows can’t usually be washed.

Secondly, you can use a pillow protector, like these pillow protectors from M&S, or these pillow protectors from Soak & Sleep.

If you’ve invested in the best mattress your budget allows, you would use one of the best mattress protectors to safeguard your purchase, and it’s the same with a pillow. A pillow protector goes underneath your pillowcase to provide an extra level of protection. This prevents pillows getting stained or allergens getting inside the pillow. So if you’re wondering if you should buy a pillow protector, the answer is yes.

When should you throw out a pillow?

Even though washing and protecting your pillow can increase its lifespan, it won’t make it last forever, and at some point you may need to accept your pillow is past its best.

Why is this important? Because your pillows are in direct contact with your face, head and hair, which means that they absorb sweat, oils, drool, dirt, and dead skin cells that can seep through pillowcases and are retained inside pillows. If this is then transferred back onto the skin, it can clog pores and trigger rashes and acne breakouts in anyone with sensitive skin.

In addition, old pillows can also accumulate allergens like dust mites, fungus, mould, and pet dander, which can cause allergic reactions such as a runny or stuffy nose, itchy skin, and irritated eyes that may then impact on sleep quality.

Aside from the cleanliness aspect, your pillow also plays an important role in maintaining proper spinal alignment while you sleep, so by replacing pillows regularly, you’ll get to keep on enjoying a restful night’s sleep and avoid waking up with aches and pains.

‘Sometimes you might also need to change your pillow for other reasons than its old age,’ adds Chris. ‘Other factors that can affect the longevity of your pillow might be if you’ve recently changed sleeping positions. For example, if you’ve switched from sleeping on your back to your side, you’ll need a new pillow with a different height.'

All of these are signs it's time to get rid of your pillow. But when you do, avoid throwing it in the dustbin or it will likely end up in landfill.

You may want to repurpose your pillow, including reusing old pillows in the garden! You can use them outdoors as floor cushions, bench pads or kneelers if you do lots of gardening. Or consider using old pillows to bolster pet bedding and make dogs or cats more comfortable.

If you can’t re-use or re-purpose your old pillows, then recycle your old pillow by finding a local textile recycling facility where the old pillow stuffing can be recycled and made into insulation or carpet padding.

If you're looking for the best memory foam pillow, it's likely that you're a sleeper who prefers firm support under your head.

If so, a memory foam pillow is a great choice, especially if you sleep on your side. That's because when lying down, the ideal pillow should keep our head, neck, and spine in the same position they would be in if we were standing perfectly upright.

Our heads are heavy, and memory foam's dense structure can provide the high loft and firm support that we need in this sleeping position, making it one of the best pillows for a side sleeper.

However, not all memory foam pillows are created equal. As Ideal Home's Sleep Editor, I've spent the last five years sleep-testing over 50 pillows to find the best pillows overall. Our review team has slept on each pillow in this round-up for at least two weeks (as well as plenty more pillows that didn't make the grade). This is my shortlist of the best memory foam pillows on the market.

The quick list

Short on time? This quick list is an overview of the very best memory foam pillows I've tested. You'll find more information on why I recommend each one if you keep on scrolling.

Best memory foam pillow overall

If you're a side sleeper, then as long as this pillow is the right height for you, (because it only comes in one height option), I think this is one of the best memory foam pillows on the market. It's also one of the best value memory foam pillows you can buy, yet the attention to detail in its design makes it feel far more premium than any comparable memory foam pillow at this price point.

Its memory foam core is medium-firm, so I found it had a nice amount of squish when I slept on it (none of the 'sleeping on a brick' feel that I encountered with other memory foam pillows at this price point), but it still offered enough height and density that it kept my head well supported in alignment with my neck when I slept on my side.

All memory foam pillows sleep warmer than a wool or feather-and-down filled pillow, especially if you're a hot sleeper like me, but I found this budget buy did sleep cooler than most, perhaps down to the removable and washable bamboo that zips neatly around the shaped inner core.

The final plus point is Panda's 30-night sleep trial. It can take a while to get used to a new pillow, and it's important to make sure it offers the right height and support for your needs. That sleep trial means there's plenty of time to test this option out before you commit to keeping it, and if you're a side sleeper, I highly recommend giving it a try.

Our Panda Memory Foam pillow review has more detail.

Best memory foam pillow for side sleepers

First things first, this pillow is expensive. Very expensive in my book. However, I have had some of my best nights' sleep on this pillow, and I think that's likely because it comes in three height options: a 10, 11.5, or 13cm height.

I'm 5'9", and as a side sleeper with wider shoulders, I need a higher pillow that can fill the gap between my ear and the mattress when I'm lying on my side. I tested the 11.5cm depth and found it just right for me; taller sleepers will appreciate the 13.5cm depth.

Another bonus is the pillow's ergonomic shape, which makes it suitable for both side and back sleepers. However, it's worth noting you'll need a lower height pillow for back sleeping than for side sleeping. I found the 11.5cm the perfect height when laid on my side, but it lifted my head a little too high for comfortable back sleeping. But as long as you choose the right height, its curved shape is very comfortable for back sleeping, supporting the head and neck to keep the airway open during the night (which should help to prevent snoring).

Its feel is denser and heavier than any other memory foam pillow in this round up, but it's still very cushioning and moulded to the contours of my head and neck whilst I slept, and its 'SmartCool' cover is exactly that. It feels cool to the touch and offers a much cooler sleep than any other memory foam pillow I've tested. A 30-night sleep trial also makes that high-ticket investment a lot less risky.

Best memory foam pillow for back sleepers

If you're a back sleeper, I think this is the best memory foam pillow for you. It has a squishier inner core than most other memory foam pillows I've tested, and that means a lower loft that suits back sleeping well.

It might also suit you if you're a side sleeper with narrower shoulders, although sadly, it only comes in one height, and I found it just a little too low to support my head at the correct height when lying on my side. That's a shame, because it's also the most luxurious memory foam pillow I've come across.

I've tested a lot of memory foam pillows that didn't make this shortlist because they felt very 'block' like under my head – fine for half an hour, but during the night, they became uncomfortably hard. In contrast, this pillow offers sink-in comfort that almost rivals a feather and down pillow.

That's largely down to its silky bamboo rayon cover and the quilting inside, which softens up the memory foam core and adds a more premium feel. That quilting also offers a little extra cooling. It's more expensive than Panda's other memory foam pillow at the top of this list, but I could immediately see why this pillow costs more. A 30-night sleep trial will help you decide whether you think it's worth the extra investment.

Get the full details in our Panda Hybrid Bamboo Pillow review.

Best cooling memory foam pillow

The main downside of any memory foam pillow is that this material can tend to sleep (sometimes very) warm. That's because memory foam is a very dense man-made material, and it lacks any natural breathability.

As a hot sleeper, I've slept on plenty of memory foam pillows that, despite initially feeling comfortable, soon warmed up and then started to become actively hot! That's because this synthetic material tends to reflect body heat back towards the sleeper, often resulting in a very sweaty head.

All of the pillows in this round-up include cooling technologies to combat overheating, but thanks to its (relatively) affordable price point and its cooling gel formula, I think the REM-Fit 500 Cool Gel Pillow is one of the best cooling memory foam pillows you can buy. I also highly rate TEMPUR's new SmartCool range, but they are a lot pricier than this more budget-friendly option.

Our tester, Rachel, 'a peri-menopausal mother-of-two who often wakes up in the night overheated, sweaty, and unable to get back to sleep' and her youngest son, who Rachel describes as 'possibly the sweatiest sleeper I’ve ever encountered', both found that this pillow stayed cool to the touch throughout the night.

'I didn’t wake up in the night hot and sweaty like I often do,' says Rachel, 'and my son loved the fact he didn't have to keep flipping the pillow over in the night to find the cool side.'

Rachel also liked the fact that this pillow 'wasn’t too rigid and "brick-like". My head sank into the pillow just the right amount to keep my spine in alignment, and it suited both back and side sleeping positions.' It's only downsides were that there's only one height option, and there's no sleep trial to test it out before you commit to keeping it.

Get the full details in Rachel's REM-Fit 500 Cool Gel Pillow review.

Best soft memory foam pillow

The Simba Hybrid Pillow is fairly unusual. It's denser than your average microfibre or hollowfibre pillow, but softer than most memory foam pillows. That's because instead of the inner core of the Hybrid Pillow being one large block like most memory foam pillows, it's made up of hundreds of small foam cubes, or 'nanocubes' as Simba calls them.

Not only do these small pieces of blue foam give the pillow a softer, lighter, and airier feel than most memory foam pillows, but you can also unzip the inner core of the pillow and remove them. This means that you can adjust the height of the pillow to the exact depth to suit your body frame. It's an ingenious concept, and one that has earned this pillow a lot of diehard fans since its launch.

Personally, I found this pillow a little hard to get used to as I found the cubes tended to bunch in areas I didn't particularly want them to under my head, and I found the 'cooling' cover a little bulky and uncomfortable. But I've given it to plenty of friends and family to test out, and a lot of them love it, especially those sleepers who prefer a softer feeling pillow but don't want to opt for feather and down for ethical reasons.

Luckily, Simba offers a 30 night sleep trial, so if you too prefer a softer feeling pillow and like the idea of being able ot adjust its heigth; this is defintiely a good option to test out for yourself at home.

Our Simba Hybrid Pillow review explains more.

Best classic memory foam pillow

In my opinion, the main downside of a memory foam pillow is that it doesn't look *that* great on the bed. Admittedly, this isn't the main reason most of us are investing in a pillow – we're generally looking for comfort instead – but most memory foam pillows are rectangular blocks, and if you're into your bedscaping, that means they can't compare to a feather and down pillow for aesthetics.

That is, unless it's the TEMPUR Cloud SmartCool pillow. This memory foam pillow is one-of-a-kind in that it emulates a classic pillow shape. That means it fits a pillowcase well, and it's far softer and more malleable than most memory foam pillows, which means you can scrunch it up into whatever shape you find most comfortable at night.

This malleability makes it versatile. It's fairly low loft, so it suits back sleepers best out of the box, but I found I could squish it up to make it a good height for side sleeping too. It also comes in two firmness options: soft and medium. I tested the medium, and I really enjoyed sleeping on it, although I wouldn't say it gave quite as much support when side sleeping as a firmer 'block-shaped' memory foam pillow, as it's less stable.

As a hot sleeper, I also found that 'SmartCool' pillow case did the trick, keeping me a lot cooler than most memory foam pillows.

The downside – beyond the fact that its name is a little misleading, as this pillow is *super* heavy and could do some actual damage in a pillow fight! – is its price. It's a definite investment. But, there's a 30-night sleep trial on offer, and after all, we could argue that a good night's sleep is priceless.

How I tested

Before creating this guide to the best memory foam pillows, I slept on each pillow for at least two weeks on my own bed, or enlisted one of our trusty review team to do the snoozing for me. I'm an active sleeper who tends to change position during the night, usually starting off on my back before switching to my side.

As well as noting how comfortable each pillow was in each sleep position, as a hot sleeper, I paid attention to how warm each pillow slept, and if it caused my head to get hot or stayed cool and fresh.

Plus, I considered whether each pillow comes in multiple height options, how easy it was to care for, whether it came with a sleep trial, and its value for money. This guide includes only those six memory foam pillows that performed the very best during my tests.

How to choose a memory foam pillow

Sleep position: The most important factor in how to choose a pillow is considering your sleeping position before you shop. If you're a side sleeper, you'll want a firmer, higher pillow that can keep your head and neck in alignment with your spine as you sleep. If you're a back sleeper, you'll want a lower and perhaps slightly more cushioned pillow that will cradle the back of your neck.

Height options: If you're a side sleeper, you may also want to consider opting for a memory foam pillow that's available in different height options. That's because you need a pillow that will fit the gap between your ear and the edge of your shoulder for your head, neck, and spine to be in their optimum sleep posture, and because all of our bodies are built differently, that means a one-size pillow doesn't fit all. You might be lucky and find one of the single height pillows on this list that fits your body frame, but if your shoulders are wider or narrower than 'average', a pillow that comes in multiple depths or heights is more likely to offer you the ideal pillow loft you need.

Cooling technology: 'Old school' memory foam was notorious for making sleepers very hot. That's because its dense structure didn't allow for airflow, and this lack of breathability meant body heat was reflected back towards the sleeper, resulting in a very hot and sweaty sleep. All of the options in my round-up employ some kind of cooling technology to combat this; whether that's open-cell memory foam that allows for improved air flow, graphite-infusions that draw heat away from the sleeper, 'phase-change' technology that promises the same, or cooling covers designed to wick away body heat before it reaches the pillow core. Memory foam pillows that feature some kind of cooling 'tech' are generally a little more expensive, but having tested plenty of alternatives, I think they're well worth a slightly higher price tag to not be turning your pillow over every 20 minutes to escape the heat.

Sleep trial: Whilst a pillow might seem like a simple purchase, because of our individual sleep needs, one size doesn't fit all. For this reason, opting for a pillow that comes with a sleep trial can save you a lot of money on 'wrong choices'. It's very hard to judge whether you'll like a pillow before you sleep on it, and a sleep trial allows you to do just that. Generally, a pillow sleep trial ranges from 14 nights to 30 nights; a month is a nice amount of time to work out if a pillow is right for you, but any sleep trial is far better than none, especially considering most memory foam pillows are a significant investment.

Washable covers: When it comes to how to wash a pillow, I haven't encountered any memory foam pillows that can come in contact with water; instead, many memory foam pillows have removable covers you can unzip and wash instead. Whether your chosen pillow comes with a removable cover may not be a deal breaker as you can add a pillow protector and pillowcase to any pillow to help keep it clean, but it's a nice extra feature to have.

Price: Your budget is, of course, also going to play into your choice of memory foam pillow. In general, memory foam does tend to be a more expensive filling than a polyester microfibre or hollowfibre pillow, and on a par with feather and down. Memory foam pillows tend to start at around £45 and go up to a staggering £150. Is an expensive pillow worth it? It can be, it tends to mean you get more choice in the memory foam pillow's height and feel, a sleep trial, and more cooling technology, which can all make a significant difference to how well you sleep.

FAQs