Best Pillows for Every Type of Sleeper UK (2026)

Stiff neck by Friday? The right pillow keeps your head, neck and spine aligned - that’s what improves sleep, not just hours on a tracker.

Finding the best pillow for you depends on your preferred sleeping position, loft (height), level of support you're after, and the type of fill, from memory foam and latex to down or synthetic fibres. Side sleepers usually need more height; back sleepers do best with medium loft; stomach sleepers need the flattest, softest option to avoid cranking the neck. If you’re regularly sleeping on planes or trains, a travel pillow can offer better neck support than a standard pillow. Cost of living still front of mind? We’ve included high-value buys alongside premium winners.

The NHS advises to use a low, firm pillow for neck pain and NICE guidelines add that a single, firm pillow that supports the hollow of your neck can help keep alignment overnight.

Below you’ll find the best pillows in the UK right now - chosen using Mumsnet users’ real-world feedback and editor research - plus quick tips to match fill and firmness to your needs. If you’re overhauling your whole setup, see our guides to the best mattress and best mattress toppers for extra support, and best duvets if temperature is the issue.

Jump to products

Best pillows at a glance

Best overall pillow: Soak & Sleep Soft as Down Microfibre Pillow
Best budget pillow: Silentnight Anti-Snore Pillow
Best memory foam pillow: Panda Bamboo Memory Foam Pillow
Best cooling pillow: Simba Hybrid Pillow
Best pillow for side sleepers: Soak & Sleep Soft as Down Microfibre Pillow
Best pillow for neck pain: Emma Adapt Pillow
Best travel pillow: Trtl Travel Pillow
Best pillow for camping: Decathlon Quechua Camping Pillow Ultim Comfort
Best hotel-style pillow: The White Company Canadian Goose Down Pillow
Best all-natural pillow: Ava Innes Luxury Wool & Organic Cotton Bed Pillow
Best silk pillow for hair and skin: Laura Ashley Mulberry Silk Pillow
Best pillow for back sleepers: The Original Groove® Pain Relief Pillow
Best pillow for stomach sleepers: Emma Original Memory Foam Firm Pillow
Best for hot sleepers: The Woolroom Deluxe Washable Wool Pillow

How did I choose the best pillows?

A pile of pillows balanced on Rebecca Roberts' crossed legs in her living room

Pillows are tested by MNHQ's own Rebecca Roberts alongside parent testers in their homes

We chose these pillows by combining hands-on home testing with long-term feedback from Mumsnet users, then narrowing things down to the options that offered the best mix of support, comfort, ease of care and value.

Support and alignment	Does it keep your head and neck in a neutral position for your main sleep position (side, back or front) and are you waking up stiff or comfortable?
Temperature and breathability	Does it trap heat or help you stall cool and dry, especially if you're a naturally hot sleeper or going through night sweats?
Shape and bounce-back	Does it spring back into shape each morning or does it flatten, clump or develop a permanent dip after a few nights?
Ease of care	Can you wash the whole pillow or at least the cover, how long does it take to dry and does it survive a spin in a standard UK washing machine?
Materials and build quality	Are the seams neat, does the filling feel evenly distributed and are the fabrics comfortable against bare skin?
Value for money	Does the performance justify the price once you've actually slept on it, or are you mainly paying for branding and buzz?

To make sure this guide works for as many people as possible, I also sense-checked every pillow recommendation against the kinds of posts we see on the Mumsnet forums – from parents dealing with neck pain and pregnancy insomnia to perimenopausal night sweats and partners who snore.

The result: a list that’s tried, tested and, most importantly, approved by real people who’ve actually slept on them – not just pressed them in a showroom.

💙 Why you can trust us

Mumsnet recommendations are built on real-life testing and honest feedback from parents and our team at MNHQ, not hype. We’re editorially independent, so we say what we actually think – even when a product’s a bit “meh”.

Find out more about how our content works

The best pillows of 2026

1

Best overall pillow

Soak and Sleep Soft as Down Pillow

Best Buy Top Tested

Check price at Soak and Sleep

Pros

Feels like premium down without triggering allergies
Maintains shape and plumpness
Machine washable at 40°C

Cons

Not quite as cooling as natural materials
Takes longer to dry after washing

Key specs

RRP at time of writing: £28 | Support: Medium-soft | Materials: Microfibre filling with cotton casing | Guarantee: Five years | Dimensions: 50cm x 75cm

What Mumsnet users say

TheVeryHungryTortoise · Recommended brand

I've had my soak and sleep soft as down pillows for about five years now and still love them! I can't do feather/down due to allergies, but these have a similar texture and feel very luxurious.

See Post

Tester, Rebecca Roberts · Tried & Tested

Across the three weeks, it’s stayed supportive and consistent, without flattening or developing that familiar hollow under my head. That reliability made it easier to relax and fall asleep, rather than lying there subtly annoyed.

See Post

My verdict

Tested by mum of two and Senior Content Editor, Rebecca Roberts: See our full Soak & Sleep Soft As Down pillow review.

These pillows deliver that gloriously plump, hotel-style “sink in and sigh” feeling, without the sneezing and wheezing that can come with real feathers. That’s why they’re our best overall pillow - they’re comfortable, supportive, and low-maintenance, with none of the constant fluffing or readjusting some pillows demand.

As Rebecca says, “It is a very full pillow, so if you like something low and squashy, this probably isn’t for you.” But that loft is exactly what makes it our top pick for side sleepers, keeping your head and neck properly supported (and saving you from the 3am pillow pile-up).

Across three weeks of testing, it stayed “supportive and consistent, without flattening or developing that familiar hollow under my head”. It’s not the cheapest, but Rebecca felt it was worth it: “a sensible, grown-up upgrade rather than a punt… I’d happily buy another.” Sleep hot? The Woolroom Deluxe breathes better - but for dependable, hotel-style comfort without feathers, this is a seriously convincing all-rounder, which is why we've positioned it as #1 in our roundup.

2

Best budget pillow

Silentnight Anti-Snore Pillow

Check price at Amazon Check price at Silentnight Check price at Argos

Pros

Genuinely works for snorers
Washable cover
Medium firmness suits most sleeping positions

Cons

Not as durable as premium options
Some users may find it initially too firm

Key specs

RRP at time of writing: £15| Support: Medium-firm | Materials: ergonomic foam core with hollowfibre surround, machine-washable cover | Guarantee: Two years | Dimensions: 70 x 40cm, weight 0.8kg

What Mumsnet users say

DemonicCaveMaggot · Recommended product

It cut the snoring drastically. It works if it is used on its own, not combined with any other pillows.

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My verdict

Nobody wants to admit they snore like a freight train, but this budget-friendly miracle worker has thousands of grateful partners singing its praises. At £15 for one, it's probably worth trying before spending hundreds on fancy alternatives or separate bedrooms.

The genius is in its simple design: an ergonomically shaped foam core surrounded by a hollowfibre filling creates the perfect head position to keep your airways open. Clinical tests show it reduces snoring by a whopping 50% – and Mumsnetters back this up with real-world results.

It's also firm enough to maintain its shape, but comfortable enough that you'll actually use it. Mainly a back sleeper? This beats stacking two soft pillows, but side sleepers will get better height from the Soak & Sleep microfibre pillow listed as our top choice.

3

Best memory foam pillow

Panda Bamboo Memory Foam Pillow

Top Tested

Check price at Amazon Check price at Argos Check price at Panda Check price at Dunelm

Pros

Exceptional support that relieves neck and shoulder tension
Bamboo cover stays cool all night
Remarkably durable – maintains shape for years without sagging

Cons

Initial firmness feels strange if you're used to softer pillows
Premium price point

Key specs

RRP at time of writing: £45 | Support: Medium-firm | Materials: Third-generation memory foam, bamboo fabric cover, removable/washable cover | Guarantee: 10 years | Dimensions: 40 x 60cm

What Mumsnet users say

loobylou10 · Recommended product

Panda bamboo pillow. Game changer for me - cured neck pain. Takes a bit of getting used to because it's like a block to start with, but persevere, and I'll bet you love it.

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My verdict

Tried and tested by Mumsnet editor, Poppy: Read her full review of the Panda Bamboo Memory Foam Pillow.

If you're a side sleeper who's tired of waking up feeling like you've been wrestling with your pillow all night, the Panda memory foam pillow is a favourite on Mumsnet among those battling morning neck stiffness – and for good reason.

This bamboo-covered pillow feels firm initially – there's a brief moment where it feels high before your head sinks in and settles. But that firmness is precisely why it works for side sleepers. Unlike traditional pillows where the stuffing gets scrumpled towards the back during the night, this solid memory foam block maintains its shape consistently, keeping your neck properly aligned even when you roll over.

The bamboo cover is practical too. It's soft without being slippery (so your pillowcase actually stays put), and the whole thing spot cleans easily after night sweats or spills. Our tester found it stayed at a fairly constant temperature throughout the night rather than getting progressively warmer, though it's not the cold-on-contact sensation you'd get from a gel cooling pillow. She still woke with damp hair on warm nights but never felt hot, which is a useful distinction if you're a sweaty sleeper.

Worth noting: there's zero adjustability here - it's a block that moulds to you and you have no agency over the pillow. But if you want firm, reliable support that behaves exactly the same every night with no maintenance beyond the occasional cover wash, this ticks all the boxes.

4

Best cooling pillow

Simba Hybrid Pillow

Check price at Simba Sleep Check price at Amazon Check price at Argos

Pros

Adjustable height and firmness
Supportive without feeling solid or blocky
Better airflow than traditional memory foam
Good temperature regulation
Holds its shape well overnight

Cons

Can feel fiddly to adjust at first
Nanocubes may need topping up over time
Pricier than standard memory foam pillows

Key specs

RRP at time of writing: £109 | Support: Medium–firm (adjustable) | Materials: Open-cell memory foam nanocubes, cotton cover with Stratos® cooling technology, mesh side panels | Guarantee: Two years| Dimensions: 70 x 45cm

What Mumsnet users say

Mimsykins · Recommended brand

Simba Hybrid. Worth every penny. I even take it on holiday with me.

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HateThese4Leggedbeasts · Recommended brand

I love my Simba pillow. It's small cubes a bit like a trampoline jump pit. You add however many is comfortable. I've had mine 5 -6 years (with 1 cube top up purchased as I like mine quite bouncy).

See Post

Our verdict

Memory foam is used in a number of pillows for a reason - it moulds to your head and neck, helping to spread weight evenly and keep your spine better aligned while you sleep. That can mean less pressure on the neck and shoulders, and fewer wake-ups from aching or stiffness. The downside, for some, is that traditional memory foam can feel dense, hot and a bit unforgiving.

The Simba Hybrid Pillow takes a different approach. Instead of one solid slab of foam, it’s filled with hundreds of tiny open-cell foam ‘nanocubes’. These move around more like a feather or down filling, giving the pillow a softer, more adaptable feel, but without losing the steady support memory foam is known for. It also means the pillow doesn’t flatten overnight or need constant plumping.

Adjustability is a big part of the appeal. You can unzip the cover and add or remove handfuls of nanocubes until the height and firmness feel right for you. It can take a bit of trial and error, but once you’ve nailed it, many people find it works across different sleep positions.

So why is it our best cooling pillow? Because it tackles heat from a few angles at once. The cotton cover is infused with Simba’s Stratos® technology, designed to draw heat away from your body, while the open mesh border improves airflow around the pillow. Combined with the breathable, open-cell foam, it sleeps noticeably cooler than old-school memory foam pillows - without sacrificing the support that makes foam a favourite in the first place.

We’ve previously tested the TEMPUR Cloud SmartCool™ (and rated it highly for cooling), but after more hands-on testing, the Simba Hybrid just edges it - cooler-feeling in real life, and easier to fine-tune if you’re fussy about height and firmness.

5

Best pillow for neck pain

Emma Adapt Pillow

Check price at Mattress Next Day Check price at Emma Check price at Mattress Online

What we like

Three-layer design you can mix, match and remove to get the height right
Supportive, medium-firm feel (less “sink-in” than some foam)
Cover is machine-washable at 40°C

What we don't like

Foam isn’t everyone’s cup of tea
You may need a bit of fiddling to find your perfect set-up

Key specs

RRP at time of writing: £55 | Pillow type: Memory foam | Fill: Gel memory foam, HRX foam and Visco memory foam | Loft/height: Adjustable (max 12 cm) | Firmness feel: Medium-Firm | Cover washable?: Yes, machine-washable at 40°C | Cooling features: Breathable fabric and open-cell foam | Hypoallergenic?: Yes | Trial/returns/warranty: 30-night trial and 2-year guarantee

Our verdict

Neck pain is often less about finding the “best” pillow material and more about getting the height right. If your pillow is even slightly too high or too flat, it’s easy to spend the night with your neck nudged out of line - then wake up stiff and grumpy.

That’s where the Emma Adapt Pillow earns its place. It uses three foam layers you can add, remove or reorder, so you can tweak the loft to suit how you actually sleep. Side sleeper and need more lift to fill that shoulder gap? Use all three. Mostly on your back? Two layers may feel more natural. Occasionally end up on your front? Drop it lower again. It’s not totally instant - expect a bit of trial and error - but once you’ve landed on the right combination, it’s the kind of “set it and forget it” support that can make mornings feel a lot kinder.

6

Best travel pillow

Trtl Travel Pillow

Check price at Trtl Check price at Amazon

What we like

Scarf-style wrap packs smaller and flatter than most U-shaped pillows
Internal support structure helps keep your head upright
Fleece wrap is machine-washable (once you remove the support)
Velcro fastening gives a snug, adjustable fit
Comes with a carry bag and carabiner

What we don't like

One-sided support won’t suit every sleeper
Some people find the wrap style too warm or too close-fitting
Pricier than many standard travel pillow

Key specs

RRP at time of writing: £50 | Type: Scarf-style structured travel pillow | Weight: 133g | Packed size: Folds flat, roughly half size 22 x 24 x 9cm | Fabric: Fleece wrap with internal plastic support | Washable?: Wrap yes, after removing support | Support style: Upright side or front support, depending on positioning | Carry method: Carry bag and carabiner

What Mumsnet users say

loopsngeorge · Recommended product

I invested in a Trtl neck pillow for a 14hr flight last year. It was £50 but pretty good, and I was definitely more comfortable than using the standard foam neck pillows.

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SnakesAndArrows · Recommended product

I have a Trtl, and it’s great.

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Our verdict

If you’re fed up with the classic airport neck pillow doing absolutely nothing the moment you nod off, the Trtl is worth a look. It’s designed less as a cushion and more as a prop: the internal support gives your head somewhere firm to lean, which can make a big difference on planes and trains where “sleeping” mostly means trying not to slump.

It is a bit marmite. The wraparound feel won’t be for everyone, and if you tend to run hot you might find the fleece a touch cosy. But it packs down far flatter than most foam options, and for people who get that annoying head-bob in upright seats, it’s one of the few travel pillows that approaches the problem differently. The price stings, yes — but if you’ve already bought a couple of useless U-shapes, it can work out cheaper in the long run.

7

Best pillow for camping

Decathlon Quechua Camping Pillow Ultim Comfort

Check price at Decathlon

Pros

Portable while maintaining proper support
Effective for chronic pain conditions
Outstanding value

Cons

Limited availability (often sells out during camping season)
Cover isn't as luxurious-feeling as premium pillows

Key specs

RRP at time of writing: £20 | Support: Medium-soft | Materials: compact foam filling, machine washable cover | Guarantee: Two years | Dimensions: 40cm x 30cm

What Mumsnet users say

Mudflaps · Recommended product

I've spent so much on pillows (there are at least five on each bed at this stage) and never found one I was comfortable with until I found these. I have [had] fibromyalgia for over 40 years, and it's left me a really poor sleeper who has to have a soft but supportive pillow, I bought one of these for camping, and it was so good I bought another, and I use them all the time, even keep one in my parents for visits and one in the car with a light blanket.

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My verdict

This unassuming little camping pillow has developed something of a cult following among Mumsnetters with chronic pain conditions. Originally designed for outdoorsy types who don't want to sacrifice sleep quality under canvas, it may have inadvertently become the solution for countless people who have spent small fortunes on specialist pillows without finding relief.

The surprisingly effective balance between portability and proper support is what many love about it. Unlike those inflatable neck pillows that leave you more uncomfortable than no pillow at all, this lightweight option manages to be genuinely comfortable while still packing down small enough to fit in your handbag.

At £20, it's a fraction of the price of specialist pillows, yet Mumsnetters report it outperforms options ten times the price. Worth buying even if you've never been camping in your life!

8

Best luxury hotel-style pillow

The White Company Canadian Goose Down Pillow

Check price at The White Company

What I like

Plush, cloud-like feel that mimics a luxury hotel bed
Choice of soft or medium support
High-quality goose down outer with feather/down core for loft and gentle support
383-thread-count cotton sateen casing feels smooth and breathable
Machine washable and tumble-dryable

What I don't like

Extremely expensive compared with other pillows
Not suitable if you’re allergic to feathers or prefer vegan / fully synthetic options
Soft, sink-in feel won’t suit side sleepers
Needs regular plumping to keep its loft
Professional laundering is recommended

Key specs

RRP at time of writing: from £250 | Support: Soft or Medium | Materials: 100% goose down (outer), 85% duck feather / 15% duck down (inner core), 383-thread-count cotton sateen casing | Guarantee: Two years | Dimensions: 50 x 75cm (standard), 50 x 90cm (super king)

What Mumsnet users say

Ineffable23 · Recommended brand

[...] I think I got my feather pillow from the white company when they had a sale on. It's the best compromise of holding my neck at the right height that I've found.

See Post

My verdict

This is a seriously plush pillow, with the goose down outer giving a deep, squishy feel and the feather-and-down core in the medium version adding a bit more backbone. On the bed it looks and feels like the sort of pillow you get in a high-end hotel – high loft, smooth cotton casing and that “ah, that’s better” moment when you lie down. The soft option works well for front sleepers who want their head quite low, while the medium version is better for back sleepers and lighter side sleepers who don’t need loads of height.

You do have to be realistic about the trade-offs. It’s very expensive, it needs regular plumping to keep its shape and proper laundering isn’t as simple or cheap as washing a synthetic pillow. It’s also not suitable if you’re allergic to feathers or want a vegan option. If you’re comfortable with feather and down and you’re specifically looking to upgrade your bed to that hotel-ish feel, it’s a strong contender – but it’s a considered purchase rather than an impulse buy.

9

Best all-natural pillow

Ava Innes Luxury Wool & Organic Cotton Bed Pillow

Top Tested

Check price at Ava Innes

What we like

Adjustable filling, so you can tweak the height and firmness
Made in the UK with traceable materials
Comfortable and supportive, with a breathable feel
Hypoallergenic

What we don't like

Noticeable wool smell at first (it fades)
Will settle over time, so you may need to top up/refill

Key specs

Our verdict

This is the pillow for anyone who’s officially done with buying “that’ll do” bedding on repeat. Everything about it is natural and UK-made, and it feels exactly like the kind of grown-up upgrade you notice the moment you lie down.

The big win is adjustability. You can remove or add wool filling to get the loft right, which is handy if you’re fussy about height or switch between side and back sleeping. In testing, it had enough support to keep the neck aligned on your side, without feeling rigid when you roll onto your back.

Worth a quick expectation-setting, though: while it’s breathable and didn’t feel clammy, it’s not being pitched as a “miracle cooling pillow”. That’s exactly why it sits in this guide as best all-natural pillow, not best for hot sleepers - if overheating/night sweats are your main issue, the Woolroom pick is still the one we’d point you towards first.

Two quirks to know about before you hit “buy”: there’s a definite wool smell when you first open it (it fades after about a week), and it will settle over time - but being able to top it up makes that feel reassuring rather than annoying.

10

Best silk pillow for hair and skin

Laura Ashley Mulberry Silk Pillow

Check price at Land of Beds Buy now from Next Check price at Very

Pros

Gentle on skin and hair
Naturally cool and breathable
Good option for allergy sufferers
Hygienic, long-lasting antibacterial treatment
Machine washable

Cons

Expensive compared to standard pillows
Less supportive than memory foam options

Key specs

RRP at time of writing: £89 | Support: Soft–medium | Materials: Mulberry silk topper, hollowfibre filling, 100% cotton percale cover | Care: Machine washable up to 40°C | Dimensions: 74 x 48cm

Our verdict

Silk pillows have become a bit of a beauty-sleep staple, and this Laura Ashley option shows why. Sleeping on silk can help reduce friction against the skin and hair, which may mean fewer sleep lines on your face, less tugging on delicate skin, and less frizz or breakage by morning. It also doesn’t absorb moisture in the same way cotton does, so your skin and hair keep more of their natural hydration overnight, a small change that can add up over time.

This pillow uses mulberry silk, which is considered the highest-quality type of silk. It’s made from long, smooth fibres produced by silkworms fed exclusively on mulberry leaves, resulting in a softer, more durable and more breathable finish than cheaper silk blends. That’s a big part of what pushes the price up, along with the fact that it stays cool to the touch and feels noticeably more luxurious than standard pillow materials.

Rather than being silk all the way through, the pillow combines a supportive hollowfibre core with a generous layer of mulberry silk on top, where it really matters. The hollowfibre keeps things light, bouncy and breathable, while still holding its shape, and the silk topper provides that smooth, cooling surface for your face and hair.

There’s also a practical side that makes the price easier to justify. The Micro-Fresh treatment helps protect against bacteria, allergens and dust mites for up to 50 washes, which is reassuring if you’re sensitive or prone to breakouts. Unlike many silk pillows, this one is machine washable, so you don’t have to baby it or pay for specialist cleaning.

If you’re spending £89 purely for neck support, this isn’t the one. But if you see your pillow as part of your skincare and haircare routine and you want something cool, hygienic and genuinely indulgent to sleep on, this feels like a considered, long-term upgrade rather than a gimmick.

11

Best pillow for back sleepers

The Original Groove® Pain Relief Pillow

Check price at Amazon Check price at Groove Pillows

Pros

Support specifically designed for cervical spine alignment
Memory foam maintains therapeutic
Promises to reduce chronic neck and shoulder pain

Cons

Initial adjustment period can be uncomfortable for 7-10 days
Unusual shape isn't aesthetically pleasing

Key specs

RRP at time of writing: from £33 (or two for £50) | Support: Firm | Materials: ergonomic memory foam | Guarantee: Returnable for 100 days | Dimensions: 55 x 35cm

What Mumsnet users say

youllneverknow · Recommended brand

I recommend the Groove pillows. I have had issues with my neck for years, and this has made such a difference to me. I take it with me whenever I go away in the UK.

See Post

My verdict

If you suffer from chronic neck pain, this peculiarly-shaped pillow might be the solution you've been desperately searching for along with a firm mattress. Unlike standard pillows that either prop your head too high or let it collapse too low, the Groove Easy Sleeper is scientifically designed with ergonomic contours that promise to properly support your cervical spine while you sleep.

It essentially forces proper neck alignment – something those of us with years of poor sleep habits desperately need. The memory foam construction manages to be both supportive and moldable, adapting to your exact shape without losing its therapeutic structure. Yes, there's an adjustment period (during which you'll wonder if you've made a terrible mistake), but stick with it for at least a week.

The fact that some Mumsnetters refuse to travel without it tells you everything you need to know about its effectiveness.

Prefer a firmer, flatter sleep surface all round? Our best firm mattress guide is a good next step for full-body alignment.

12

Best pillow for stomach sleepers

Emma Original Memory Foam Pillow

Check price at Argos Check price at Land of Beds

Pros

Adjustable height thanks to removable layers
Works for front, side and back sleepers
Supportive without being overly bulky
Good airflow for a memory foam pillow
Helpful for spinal alignment

Cons

May feel too firm for those who prefer a soft, squidgy pillow
Not everyone gets on with memory foam’s slower “sink-in” feel

Key specs

RRP at time of writing: from £65 | Support: Medium-firm | Materials: Visco-elastic memory foam and HRX foam, moisture-resistant cover | Guarantee: One year | Dimensions: 70 x 40cm

What Mumsnet users say

dontcomeatme · Recommended brand

We got the Emma Original pillows and love them. Thumps into place like you say 🤣

See Post

Our verdict

If you’re a front sleeper, you’ll know how tricky pillows can be, too high and your neck protests, too flat and you’re uncomfortable by morning. That’s where the Emma Original Memory Foam Firm Pillow really comes into its own. What makes it stand out is its clever, adjustable design: it’s made up of three removable foam layers, so you can strip it back to a lower profile that works far better for sleeping on your front (or even tuck it under your stomach if that’s your thing).

The mix of foams gives a nice balance of comfort and support. The top layer gently moulds around your head, while the firmer inner foam stops everything collapsing overnight, something Mumsnet users often complain about with cheaper memory foam pillows. It also holds its shape well, so you don’t wake up having to re-fluff or re-fold it halfway through the night.

Despite being memory foam, it doesn’t feel stifling. The breathable layers help with airflow, which is reassuring if you tend to run warm or wake up with a sweaty face pressed into your pillow (we’ve all been there). It’s not icy-cool, but it’s noticeably better than older-style foam pillows. Prefer something softer and squishier? You might be happier with a microfibre option instead.

13

Best for hot sleepers

The Woolroom Deluxe Washable Wool Pillow

Check price at Amazon Check price at the Woolroom

Pros

Fully adjustable firmness
Temperature regulating
Machine washable

Cons

Premium price point
Slight smell when new

Key specs

RRP at time of writing: £90 | Support: Medium-firm | Materials: 580g of 100% traceable British wool filling, cotton outer casing | Guarantee: Returnable for 14 days | Dimensions: 48cm x 74cm

What Mumsnet users say

WildWildWestCoast · Recommended product

[...] I'd highly recommend the Woolroom deluxe wool pillow that you can add filling to. I find it perfect, just as I bought it but you can adjust it to suit you. It's not cheap, but I'll never use another pillow again.

See Post

My verdict

This natural wool pillow is the sustainable sleep solution you've been dreaming of. Made with 100% British wool, it's a planet-friendly alternative to synthetic pillows that often contain petroleum-based materials and chemicals.

The locally sourced wool significantly reduces the carbon footprint compared to imported alternatives, while the natural, biodegradable materials mean you can sleep soundly knowing your comfort isn't harming the earth. The customisability is brilliant too – you can add or remove filling to create your perfect height, eliminating waste from buying multiple pillows that aren't quite right.

The natural temperature-regulating properties of wool are an added eco-bonus – no need for energy-hungry air conditioning when you're overheating at night. It's particularly brilliant for menopausal night sweats, with wool's natural moisture-wicking abilities keeping you comfortable without the need for synthetic cooling technologies.

Run hot? Pair this with a best cooling pillow alternative or switch to a lighter duvet from our best summer duvet picks.

How to choose the right pillow

The right pillow keeps your head, neck and spine aligned. Focus on fit (your sleeping position and pillow height), then pick a fill that matches how you like a pillow to feel—and how easy you want it to wash.

Sleeping position: Side sleepers usually need more height and support; back sleepers suit medium loft that supports the neck curve; front sleepers do best with a flatter, softer option to avoid neck crank.
Fill quick guide: Memory foam = shaped support (can feel warm). Latex = supportive with a bit of bounce, cooler than foam. Wool = breathable and adjustable. Down/feather = hotel-soft but not for allergies. Microfibre/hollowfibre = allergy-friendly, good value, easy to wash.
Adjustability: Removable fill (or size options) lets you tweak height at home.
Temperature: Hot sleeper? Prioritise breathable covers (cotton, bamboo) or ventilated/latex fills.
Care and hygiene: Check whether covers are machine-washable and how often the whole pillow can be cleaned. Use protectors to extend life.
Allergy control: Hypoallergenic fills help; encasement protectors and regular hot washes matter most.

Rule of thumb for pillow height (loft): side ~10 to 12 cm; back ~8 to 10 cm; front ~6 to 8 cm.

Compare the best pillows

Model	Sleeper type	Support	Fill	Trial/returns
TEMPUR Cloud SmartCool™	Side/back, warm sleepers	Medium-firm	TEMPUR foam and cooling cover	3-year guarantee
Silentnight Anti-Snore	Best for back	Medium-firm	Ergonomic foam core and hollowfibre	2-year guarantee
Panda Bamboo Memory Foam	Best for side	Medium-firm	Memory foam block and bamboo cover	10-year guarantee
Woolroom Deluxe Washable Wool	Hot/allergy-prone	Medium	British wool (adjustable)	14-day returns
Soak & Sleep Supremely Soft As Down	Allergy-friendly “down-like”	Medium-soft	Microfibre and cotton casing	5-year guarantee
Martian Dreams Hotel Bamboo Microfibre	Customisable/allergy-friendly	Medium (customisable)	Microfibre and bamboo cover	Returns per retailer
Decathlon Quechua Ultim Comfort	Travel/compact	Medium-soft	Compact foam	2-year guarantee
Original Groove® Pain Relief	Alignment focus	Firm	Ergonomic memory foam	100-day returns

Do I need one pillow or two?

Most people sleep best on one supportive pillow that keeps the head level with the spine. NICE specifically notes a single, firm pillow that supports the neck’s natural hollow. If you’re regularly stacking two soft pillows to feel anything, it’s a sign to upgrade to a higher-loft but supportive option.

When should you replace your pillow?

If you’re waking up with neck ache or you have to fold your pillow in half just to feel anything under your head, that’s your sign. Most pillows last about 18 to 24 months before they go sad and saggy.

A quick test: fold it in half. If it stays folded, it’s done. Time to say goodbye.

Washing the pillow cover regularly and using a protector can buy you some extra months, but there’s no magic trick to revive a dead pillow – no matter how much you punch it back into shape.

What’s the best pillow height (loft)?

As a rule: side sleepers ~10 to 12cm, back ~8 to 10cm, front ~6 to 8cm. Body shape and mattress firmness change this, so adjust or choose fill-you-can-remove.

What's the best type of pillow?

There isn't one magical pillow that suits everyone - which explains why most of us have a graveyard of rejects lurking under the bed.

"A single 'best' pillow does not exist because neck length, shoulder breadth, and mattress firmness all change the gap between the head and the bed,” explains Dr Mahwish Dildar Abbasi, dermatologist and aesthetics professional. “Trials that tried to compare fills found that shape and height influence comfort more than the material itself.

Your ideal pillow depends on your sleeping position:

Side sleepers: firmer, higher pillows to fill the gap between shoulder and neck.
Back sleepers: medium support to cradle the neck without pushing the head forward.
Front sleepers: slimmer, softer pillows to stop your spine arching.

Jonathan Warren, director at Time4Sleep, agrees: "When choosing the right pillows for you, consider the level of support you want and your preferred sleeping positions. For example, side sleepers might find that a firmer pillow is a more desirable option to maintain proper neck alignment. If you sleep on your front, a softer pillow will prevent your head from rising too high and arching your spine."

As for filling:

Memory foam = great support, can feel warm.
Latex = supportive without the heat.
Down/feather = luxury hotel feel, but not for allergy sufferers.
Microfibre/hollowfibre = hypoallergenic, budget-friendly and easy to wash.

The only real test? Sleep on it for two weeks. Your neck will let you know if it's 'the one'.

What type of pillow for my sleeping position?

Type of sleeper	Needs	Pillow type
For side sleepers	You'll want height and support.	A medium-firm pillow keeps your spine straight.
For back sleepers	You need a not-too-high, not-too-flat option that supports the curve of your neck.	Medium firmness usually does the trick.
For stomach sleepers	Prevent your neck twisting all night and be breathable.	The flattest, softest pillow you can find - or none at all.

What’s the difference between microfibre and hollowfibre?

Microfibre feels denser and more down-like whereas hollowfibre traps more air and feels springier. Both are hypoallergenic and machine-washable.

Are memory foam pillows good for hot sleepers?

They can be, but it depends on the build. Traditional solid foam can trap heat; vented or “open-cell” foam and cool-to-the-touch covers feel less clammy. If you regularly overheat, natural fills like wool or latex tend to breathe better and handle night sweats without feeling damp. Whatever you choose, pair it with a breathable cotton or bamboo cover and avoid stacking multiple pillows, which also traps heat.

What type of pillow you use hugely contributes to your sleep health

Can I wash a memory foam pillow?

Covers: yes (check the care label).
Foam core: no machine wash. The core should be spot-cleaned only, then air-dried flat and completely before use. Never tumble-dry foam (it can deform). If spills are likely, use a pillow protector you can launder with your sheets.

What pillow helps if my neck is sore?

If you’re dealing with neck pain, alignment is everything. The NHS advice is simple: use a low, firm pillow. For side sleepers, that usually means a medium-to-high loft that fills the shoulder gap; for back sleepers, a medium loft that supports the neck without tucking the chin. If symptoms persist or worsen, speak to a healthcare professional. The Chartered Society of Physiotherapy’s guidance also emphasises keeping the neck correctly aligned at night.

That's not all, if your mattress is too soft or too firm, a better bed can undo all a good pillow’s work - try our best mattress for back pain picks.

“When the neck is already sore, alignment becomes essential,” says Dr Ali. “The pillow needs to cradle the natural curve of the cervical spine so the head neither tips forward nor drifts back. Proper contour keeps the facet joints slightly open, eases pressure on the small nerves that thread through the neck, and lets surrounding muscles soften.”

Back sleepers do best with medium-loft, contoured memory foam pillows that follow the shape of the neck – the Tempur Cloud is often mentioned by Mumsnet users.

Side sleepers need firmer, higher options to fill that awkward shoulder gap - the Panda Bamboo Memory Foam is a forum favourite. Some members also swear by The Groove Pillow, designed specifically for cervical alignment.

“For neck pain, a contoured memory foam pillow offers targeted support that aligns the spine,” confirms Justin Nielsen, home improvement expert.

And yes, higher isn’t always better. Studies show lower pillows can sometimes reduce pressure. Give any new pillow a proper two-week trial - your body needs time to adjust to sleeping in a healthier position. It's worth considering your mattress, too - if you suffer from neck or back pain, your mattress makes a difference.

Which pillow helps with sleep apnoea or snoring?

A pillow can help position your head and neck, but it’s not a treatment. Snorers often do better with side sleeping and a pillow that keeps the airway more open (some find contoured/anti-snore shapes useful).

If you suspect sleep apnoea, speak to a healthcare professional; medical assessment and treatment make the real difference. Keep advice general, avoid self-diagnosing and treat pillows as comfort/positioning aids rather than cures.

What pillow is best for side sleepers?

Side sleepers have the trickiest job - that shoulder-to-ear gap needs just the right height to keep your spine straight.

"Side sleepers usually benefit from extra loft because the shoulder widens the gap between the mattress and jaw,” explains Dr Ali. “Filling that space aligns the cervical vertebrae with the rest of the spine and prevents the head from leaning toward the mattress.

A firm, medium-to-high pillow is ideal. Memory foam versions like the Panda Bamboo Pillow are popular because they support without feeling like a brick.

Verity Kick, Marketing Director at Oak Tree Mobility, says: "For side sleepers, it's important to choose a pillow that strikes the right balance between support and comfort to keep your spine aligned properly. A pillow with a medium to high loft (height) is ideal. This is because it helps fill the space between the head and shoulder, ensuring the neck stays straight and reduces strain on the spine."

Adjustable pillows - like the Woolroom Deluxe - are handy because you can tweak the filling until it feels just right. Natural latex versions also hold their height better over time. Emily and Jonathan Attwood, founders of scooms, add: "Side sleepers tend to benefit from a firmer pillow with more support, whilst stomach sleepers may prefer a pillow that is much softer."

Bottom line: your head should stay parallel to the mattress, not tilted up or down. That’s your alignment test sorted.

What should I look for when buying a pillow?

Shopping for pillows sounds easy until you’re five aisles deep, wondering why there are so many types of fluff. Focus on the stuff that actually matters:

The Attwoods suggest: "When it comes to choosing the right pillow for you, we believe that there are four important elements to consider: the filling and materials used, level of support for your sleep position, size and any standards that you consider important. It's ultimately about choosing what you feel is best for you."

Nielsen recommends: "When shopping, look for adjustability (removable filling), hypoallergenic materials, and breathable covers. You spend nearly a third of your life sleeping, so don't skimp on quality. Test pillows in person where possible, or buy from retailers with strong return policies."

Be realistic about your needs - if you run hot, sleep on your side, or have allergies, shop with that in mind. Premium pillows (£50 +) usually last longer, but there are brilliant mid-range options (£25–35) that balance comfort and cost.

Are cooling pillows worth it?

Yes, if you overheat a cooling pillow is definitely worth considering: look for breathable fills (wool, cotton, latex) or ventilated foam and washable, moisture-wicking covers.

How often should I wash pillows?

Covers every one to two weeks; pillow every three to six months if it is washable. Although, it's recommended that you use protectors to extend your pillow's life.

How long does a pillow last?

Most pillows give up the ghost after one to two years, though better-quality ones can last longer.

Dr Abbasi says: "Most pillows remain supportive for 12 to 24 months. Replace it sooner if you see permanent indentations deeper than 2 cm or if the folded foam does not unfold within five seconds. Down or polyester clumps fastest, while dense viscoelastic foam may last up to 36 months if it is aired weekly and kept dry."

Material makes a huge difference:

Cheap polyester flattens within months.
Memory foam lasts two to three years.
Down can survive five or more years if fluffed and cared for properly.

Justin Nielsen confirms: "Pillows generally last one to two years, depending on the material. If yours is lumpy or doesn't bounce back, it's time for a replacement."

Not sure? Try the fold test - fold it in half and see if it springs back. If it stays folded, bin it. And if you’re waking up with random neck aches or noticing mystery stains or smells - it’s officially pillow retirement time.

Are pillows recyclable?

Options vary by council. Most textile banks don’t accept used pillows for reuse, but some will take them for fibre recycling. A few animal shelters accept clean, odour-free pillows for bedding - check first. Otherwise, look for home textiles recycling at your local tip. If the fill is removable, you can repurpose clean fibres as packing, pet beds or craft stuffing.

About the experts

Jonathan Warren, director at Time4Sleep
Dr. Mahwish Dildar Abbasi, dermatologist and aesthetics professional at Era Organics
Justin Nielsen, home improvement expert at Wolf River Electric
Verity Kick, marketing director at specialist bed supplier Oak Tree Mobility
Emily and Jonathan Attwood, founders of scooms

About the authors

Caroline Preece is a seasoned journalist with years of experience testing and reviewing products that actually work for busy homes. As a lifelong side sleeper who's battled her fair share of neck pain, she's particularly passionate about helping others find the perfect pillow without wasting money on marketing gimmicks.

Caroline takes a no-nonsense approach to cutting through manufacturer claims, focusing instead on what really matters. She has personally tested numerous sleep products over the years and isn't afraid to call out those that don't deliver value for money.

Having written for publications including Ideal Home, Homes & Gardens, and The Independent, Caroline brings both rigorous testing methods and a real-world perspective to every recommendation. When she's not reviewing products, you'll find her researching the science of sleep and seeking the professional opinions of physiotherapists on proper spinal alignment.

Rebecca Roberts is a Senior Content Editor at Mumsnet. As a mum of two (plus two dogs), she spends her days testing products that promise to make family life easier - from bedding to beauty tech. When she’s not writing, you’ll find her at a PTA meeting, in a coffee shop or walking the dogs around the Yorkshire countryside.