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When it comes to comfort and support, choosing the best pillow is just as important as choosing the right mattress. Knowing when you should replace your pillows is essential. A pillow that no longer provides proper support can lead to neck and back pain, poor spinal alignment, and disrupted sleep patterns. In this guide, we’ll cover the different types of pillows, how to match one to your sleeping position, and what to consider when buying the right pillow for your needs.
Your sleeping position is the most important factor when choosing a pillow. Side, back, and stomach sleepers all benefit from different types of support. Picking the wrong pillow can strain the neck and spine.
The best pillow for side sleepers should keep your head and neck aligned with your spine. Here’s what to look for:
Firmness: Medium-firm to firm pillows provide support without sinking too deeply. Latex or buckwheat fillings work especially well.
Pillow loft (depth): A higher-loft pillow is essential to fill the gap between your head and shoulder, preventing strain and pressure points.
Back sleepers need a pillow that supports the natural curve of the neck while keeping the head from tilting too far forward.
Firmness: Medium-firm pillows are ideal — firm enough for support but not so firm that they cause stiffness.
Pillow loft (depth): A medium-depth pillow helps prevent both flattening and excessive elevation of the head. Memory foam is a popular option here as it moulds to your shape.
Stomach sleeping places the most strain on the neck. A softer, lower pillow can help reduce this pressure.
Firmness: Soft pillows, such as feather or lightly filled synthetic pillows, are most comfortable.
Pillow loft (depth): A thinner, low-profile pillow prevents overextension of the neck.
Beyond sleeping position, personal comfort preferences matter. Some people sleep best with one pillow, while others use multiple. Our guide to how many pillows you should sleep with can help you decide.
Some pillows allow you to adjust the filling to achieve your preferred firmness. Strong neck support is crucial — especially if you experience discomfort. See our best pillows for neck pain guide for tailored advice.
If sustainability matters to you, natural and organic fillings such as organic cotton, wool, or natural latex are excellent choices.
Hot sleepers or those experiencing night sweats (such as during menopause) may prefer a cooling pillow. Specialised cooling materials and breathable fillings can improve comfort.
If you suffer from allergies, choose a pillow made from hypoallergenic materials. Memory foam, latex, synthetic fillings, and buckwheat are naturally resistant to dust mites and allergens. Good pillow hygiene is equally important. Our guide on how to wash pillows explains the best methods for keeping pillows clean and fresh.
The filling determines firmness, loft, and durability. Here are the most common pillow fillings:
Down & Feather: Luxuriously soft but may flatten quickly and trigger allergies.
Synthetic: Affordable and hypoallergenic, though often less durable.
Memory Foam: Excellent for contouring support and pressure relief.
Latex: Naturally hypoallergenic, supportive, and durable.
Buckwheat: Customisable support, breathable, and ideal for allergy sufferers.
The right pillow can transform your sleep. By considering your sleeping position, firmness needs, allergy concerns, and preferred fillings, you can find a pillow that supports healthy spinal alignment and helps you wake up feeling refreshed. Investing in the best pillow for your needs is a simple but powerful step towards improving your overall wellbeing.
Most pillows should be replaced every 1–2 years. See our full guide on when to replace pillows.
Pillows that support natural alignment — such as memory foam or ergonomic designs — are best. Explore our guide to pillows for neck pain.
It depends on your sleeping style. Learn more in our guide to how many pillows you should sleep with.
Our Managing Director Brian's expertise in crafting comfortable sleep experiences makes him a reliable voice for all things bedding-related. Brian publishes advice and tips on mattresses, beds and the overall sleep experience based on extensive industry experience.
Author Profile: Brian McCann Bio
