11 Best Pillows UK (2023): Our Top Picks Reviewed

On average, we spend 26 years of our life sleeping and approximately 6 years trying to fall asleep. We can make certain that those 26 years are spent in a deep, quality sleep by carefully selecting the mattress and the pillow we rest our tired bodies on every night. Our article on the best pillows will help you choose the perfect pillow depending on your preferences, sleeping position, and budget.

At the end of the article, we have included a buying guide that will assist you in choosing the right pillow, in case you decide to do your own research or if you’re set on a certain brand.

12/08/2023 06:23 am GMT

Without further ado, let’s start with our best overall pick.

1. Panda Bamboo Pillow: Best Overall

We’re kicking off our best pillows guide with the Panda Bamboo Pillow – a sustainable yet luxurious memory foam pillow made of eco-friendly bamboo fibres.

Pros

• Hypoallergenic and free of harmful chemicals
• Environmentally-friendly
• Amazing temperature control
• 30-day free trial and a ten-year warranty

All the materials that make up the Panda Bamboo Pillow are hypoallergenic and free of any harmful chemicals. Bamboo, the main material used in this pillow, is naturally antibacterial, making it suitable for anyone who suffers from allergies, has sensitive skin, or is hay-fever-prone. Not only is it an amazing choice for the environment, but it’s also great for your body.

Panda Bamboo Pillow’s temperature control ensures that you remain sufficiently cool in the hot summer nights, and cosy during the winter. No more uncomfortable night sweats or freezing when the temperature drops.

Its soft and comfortable feel is due to the three-layer construction. At the same time, its firm core gives you all the support you’ll need for a good night’s rest.

The Panda Bamboo Pillow comes under £50, falling under most people’s budget.

If you’re not completely satisfied with your pillow, Panda gives you a 30-day free trial and a whopping ten-year warranty.

Cons

Some might find the smell of bamboo unpleasant at first. Luckily, with its 30-day free trial, you can return it at any point if it’s a big deal-breaker for you.

2. The Emma Pillow: Best Adjustable Pillow

Suitable for all sleepers and adjustable to your firmness and height preferences, The Emma Pillow is our choice for the best adjustable pillow on the market today.

Pros

• Highly customisable to your liking
• Keeps you supported thanks to the three layers of adjustable foam
• Vegan and hypoallergenic
• 200-night trial and a ten-year warranty

The Emma Pillow gives you plenty of freedom to adjust it to your sleeping preferences. Choosing a pillow that matches your sleeping style to a T is no easy task, considering how many variables there are. So purchasing a pillow that is as customisable as The Emma Pillow will save you from a lot of hassle. 

Since it’s designed for all sleepers, people who don’t have a favourite sleeping position and like to switch it up will find this feature particularly helpful. Regardless of what position you go for, comfort and ease are guaranteed.

It contains three layers of adjustable foam, which provides weightless support and keeps you cool throughout the night.

The pillow is completely vegan, non-toxic, and hypoallergenic, making it safe for people who suffer from allergies or practise a vegan lifestyle.

You will get free delivery when purchasing The Emma Pillow, on top of a 200-nights trial and a 10-year warranty – plenty of time to decide whether it’s a good match.

Cons

The Emma Pillow is aimed at those who prefer a hard pillow in terms of firmness, so if you like your pillows extra soft, you’re unlikely to get on with this one.

3. Simba Hybrid Pillow with Stratos: Best Cooling Pillow

Temperature regulation is a frequent problem when using low-quality pillows. Some pillows can make you feel scorching hot throughout the night, which will undoubtedly keep you up and make you feel discomfited. Luckily, the design of Simba Hybrid Pillow is such that it will keep you extra cool during the night, which is why we’ve selected it as our best cooling pillow.

Pros

• Has innovative fabric technology that regulates the temperature
• Adjustable to any sleeper
• Double-sided
• 200-day free trial and a one-year warranty

The Simba Hybrid Pillow has a space-inspired fabric technology that allows for temperature regulation, while the mesh border maximizes airflow throughout the night. This combination guarantees a great night’s sleep without any excessive sweating or discomfort.

Its innovative design extends to the nanocube technology, new to pillows, which make the pillow adjustable to any sleeper. If you love your pillows customisable, you will probably really appreciate this unique feature.

Simba Hybrid Pillow is a double-sided pillow – one side is designed to keep you cool when the temperatures are high, while the other feels luxurious and ultra-soft, ideal for when you need that extra comfort.

Cons

Some customers might find the price of Simba Hybrid Pillow too steep. If that’s the case, we’d recommend checking out our pick for the best budget-friendly pillow.

4. Soak and Sleep Hungarian Goose Down Pillows: Best Luxury Pick

Treat yourself to the Hungarian Goose Down Pillows and experience the ultimate luxurious night’s sleep. With adjustable firmness and supportive design, we’re certain that you’ll be hitting the snooze button more often than usual, just so you can have a couple of extra minutes of unsurpassable comfort.

Pros

• Environmentally-friendly
• Has a range of firmness
• Hypoallergenic 
• Extremely plush surface
• 60-night trial and a five-year warranty

Luxury doesn’t have to come at an environmental price. The Hungarian Goose Down Pillow is both ethically sourced and sustainable, allowing you to enjoy your luxury purchase guilt-free.

Since it comes in a range of firmness, you can completely customise the pillow to your specific firmness preferences. Do you like a softer surface? Opt for the super-soft version. Do you prefer something in between? Simply select the medium firmness set.

Not only is it environmentally-friendly, but the Hungarian Goose Down is marked as super clean and hypoallergenic, so anyone can use it regardless of their allergies.

The design is composed of 90% feathers, so expect a plush surface for all your cosy slumbers.

The Hungarian Goose Down Pillow comes with a five-year guarantee and a 60-night trial, so you will have approximately two months to decide whether you like the feel of your new luxury pillow.

Cons

While we believe that the Hungarian Goose Down Pillows is a worthwhile investment, we acknowledge that it won’t be in everyone’s budget.

5. Silentnight Just Like Down Pillow Pack of 2: Best Budget-Friendly Pillow

Silentnight Just Like Down Pillow Pack is the perfect choice for anyone who is on a tight budget, while also being on the lookout for a quality pillow that will serve them well for years on end. Apart from its affordability, we also love its design, about which you can read in-depth below.

Pros

• Extra support through the night
• Non-allergenic
• Comes in a pack of two
• 60-day free trial and a two-year warranty

The Silentnight Just Like Down Pillow Pack includes a premium microfibre cover and a super soft hollowfibre feeling, providing extra support and comfort throughout the night.

Its design makes it compatible with all sleeping positions, making it a hassle-free option for those who prefer more than one sleeping position.

With its non-allergenic nature, it’s a supreme match with anyone suffering from pesky allergies, as well as those who like to stay on the safe side and prefer a hypoallergenic design.

The Silentnight Just Like Down Pillow Pack comes in a pack of two for an incredibly affordable price. This is good news if you’re sharing a bed with your partner, or if you want a substitute pillow when the other one is in the wash.

You will get a two-year warranty for your pillow pack, as well as a 60-day free trial to test out your pillows.

Cons

A few customers find the Silentnight Just Like Down Pillow Pack a bit too thin, so if you like your pillows with a certain amount of thickness to them, you might want to go for another option.

6. EveSleep The Snuggle Pillow: Best Pillow for Back and Front Sleepers

If you’re a back or front sleeper in need of a soft pillow, you’re in luck! The EveSleep The Snuggle Pillow is a cuddly and affordable option that will make you feel as if you’re sleeping on a cloud.

Pros

• Affordable
• Soft and bouncy
• Three-year warranty and a 14-day free trial

Made of microfibre, the pillow is luxuriously soft and bouncy. Not only does it feel good on the skin, but it also springs back into shape easily, which is crucial for support and comfort.

What makes the EveSleep The Snuggle Pillow so snuggly is the high thread count casting, giving it an added layer of cosiness.

Another reason to opt for this pillow is its affordability. Costing £50, it’s one of the least costly pillows featured in our guide.

The pillow comes with a three-year guarantee. If any problem should arise, EveSleep are happy to exchange or repair it. On top of that, you’ll also get a 14-night free trial to ensure that you’re completely satisfied with your purchase.

Cons

This pillow is aimed at front and back sleepers, so if you prefer sleeping on your side, you might want to opt for another one of our recommendations.

7. John Lewis & Partners Quilted Top Hybrid Standard Pillow: Best Pillow for Side Sleepers

Now that we’ve covered the best pillow for back and front sleepers, it’s time to give some recommendations for side sleepers. The John Lewis & Partners Quilted Top Hybrid Standard Pillow is our pick for the best pillow for side sleepers – it’s made of quality materials, it supports your spine, and it doesn’t cost a fortune.

Pros

• Even weight distribution
• Supports your back and your spine
• Two-year warranty

This hybrid pillow contains the perfect balance between natural and synthetic materials that give it a luxuriously soft feel that is a real treat to your skin.

The topmost layer of the pillow contains 3D square boxes that are incredible for weight distribution.

Not only does it support your spine, but the pillow’s wall construction will give you additional neck support.

Moreover, the pillowcase is machine washable and really easy to maintain.

The John Lewis & Partners Quilted Top Hybrid Standard Pillow comes with a two-year guarantee.

Cons

Some people have found the pillow to be too soft for their liking, but it all comes down to personal preference.

8. Tempur Comfort Pillow Cloud: Best Memory Foam Pillow

For those of you who prefer your pillows to be on the extra soft side, the Tempur Comfort Pillow Cloud will provide the comfort and support of your dreams.

Pros

• Helps with neck pain
• Highly customisable
• Luxuriously soft feel
• 30-day free trial and a three-year warranty

Giving your neck the support it craves is a prerequisite for getting rid of that annoying pain and soreness that might occur in this area of the body. Thanks to Tempur’s micro-cushions, your neck will no longer give you any discomfort in the morning or during your sleep.

The visco-elastic cells mould to your specific shape, making the Tempur Comfort Pillow Cloud highly customisable. Additionally, the pillow is suitable for every sleeping position, so whether you’re a back sleeper or a side sleeper, your head and neck will be supported.

The feel of the Tempur Comfort Pillow Cloud is extremely luxurious without being so soft that your head sinks into your pillow. This is one of our favourite features.

Tempur is certain that you will find their product outstanding, but they still provide a 30-day free trial and a three-year guarantee.

Cons

A few people have reported that the Tempur Comfort Pillow Cloud is too high for them. When purchasing the pillow, make sure you keep in mind its height (74x50cm).

9. Silentnight Eco Comfort Pillow: Best Eco-Friendly Pillow

Living as sustainably as possible no longer entails compromising on the quality of your purchases with the Silentnight Eco Comfort Pillow – our pick for the best eco-friendly pillow. Made from 100% recyclable plastic bottles, it brings unimaginable comfort and support while also being environmentally-friendly.

Pros

• Eco-friendly
• Offers pain relief
• Hypoallergenic and chemical-free
• 60-night free trial and a two-year warranty

The Eco Comfort Fibres found in the pillow make it bouncy and soft, while also springing back to shape quite easily and quickly. This quality makes Silentnight Eco Comfort Pillow suitable for both back and front sleepers, as well as those who suffer from chronic back pain.

The attention to detail is outstanding – the pillow comes in a cloth bag as opposed to the usual plastic bag. Sustainable down to the smallest steps so that you can enjoy a good night’s sleep while also helping the planet.

Just like the other products from Silentnight, the Eco Comfort Pillow is hypoallergenic and free from any foam or chemicals.

Silentnight offers a two-year warranty in addition to a 60-night free trial, giving you plenty of time to decide whether you’ve made the right choice.

Cons

If you’re a side sleeper, you might find you need a bit extra support, so feel free to choose from our medium-firm picks in our guide for best pillows.

10. The Original Groove Pillow: Best for Neck Pain

If you suffer from chronic neck pain that gives you discomfort every morning, we have the perfect pillow recommendation for you! The Original Groove Pillow will not only prevent the existing pain from getting worse, but it will also prevent any pain in the future, allowing you to enjoy your mornings in peace.

Pros

• Prevents back pain
• Corrects posture
• Shoulder support
• 100-day free trial and a one-year warranty

On top of preventing any back pain, it promises to correct your posture while sleeping and will help you get rid of any stiffness. In this day and age, many of us suffer from bad posture, and having that extra help at night could make a world of a difference.

No more sleepless nights for side sleepers thanks to The Original Groove Pillow’s shoulder support, which prevents both numbness and pain in your shoulders.

The pillow is completely anti-bacterial, vegan, and cruelty-free. With each purchase, you will receive a one-year warranty and a 100-day free trial, giving you more than enough time to see how it works for you.

Cons

The pillow is designed for back and side sleepers, so it might not be a great match if you love sleeping on your front. 

11. SpineAlign Pillow: Best for Back Pain

The award-winning SpineAlign Pillow is one of the best pillows for back pain relief and proper spine alignment. If you’ve struggled with something similar in the past, prepare to be amazed by its effectiveness.

Pros

• Prevents and treats back pain
• Maximum breathability 
• Supports back and side sleepers
• 60-day free trial and a five-year warranty

Several design choices have resulted in the SpineAlign Pillow’s wonderful ability to prevent and treat back pain. Designed by a sports chiropractor, its innovative pillow technology will give you the best sleep of your life.

The mesh stripes and soft polyester fabric allow for maximum breathability while you sleep, while, at the same time, preventing any extra heat and sweat.

Another reason we love the SpineAlign Pillow is that it provides some much-needed support for side and back sleepers.

And if that wasn’t enough, SpineAlign Pillow comes with a five-year warranty and a 60-night trial.

Cons

If you’re a front sleeper, the SpineAlign Pillow won’t do much for you. Additionally, since its price exceeds £100, it might not be in everyone’s budget.

Buying Guide

Now that we’ve shared our top suggestions for the best pillows on the market, it’s time to give you a couple of pointers in case you decide to do independent research.

Know When It’s Time for a New Pillow

The first step for our buying guide is to recognize when it’s time for your old pillow to be replaced. Pillows can only last you for so many years, so if your current pillow is more than three years old, it’d be a good idea to get a replacement.

But let’s say your pillow is a couple of months old and it’s showing signs of wear. These could be anything from your pillow becoming saggy to not feeling right or causing you any kind of back or neck pain. These are sure signs that your old pillow needs replacing. If this is the case, then you can continue reading to find out what to look for in your new pillow.

Decide on the Material

There are so many pillows to choose from that you might get overwhelmed from the start. To help you narrow down your research, it’s a good idea to start with choosing the type of material you want your pillow to be composed of. The most common materials for pillows include latex, memory foam, feathers, and synthetic.

If you suffer from chronic back or neck pain, we’d highly recommend purchasing a memory foam pillow. Latex is a great option for those who prefer their pillows to be on the firmer side. Not everyone likes feather-stuffed pillows, but in case you do, there are quite a few options available. Lastly, synthetic pillows are the most affordable pillows on the market, all the while being rather comfortable and supportive.

Check the Firmness

We all have a firmness preference, whether we’ve noticed it or not. Typically, pillows come in three firmness ranges: soft, medium, and firm. The firmness level that’s best suited to you will depend on your favourite sleeping position.

Stomach sleepers should opt for soft pillows, firm pillows are usually best suited for side sleepers, while back sleepers and multi-position sleepers should seek a medium-firm pillow. By doing so, you will keep your back and neck supported throughout the night, preventing any pain and soreness in the morning.

Is It Hypoallergenic?

If you suffer from any allergies or have sensitive skin, it’s imperative that you check whether the pillow you have your eye on is clearly labelled as hypoallergenic. While it’s true that most pillows have a free trial period, you don’t want to risk a bad reaction or unnecessarily waste time with returns.

Think about Your Preferences

It’s important that you keep in mind what specific preferences you’d want your pillow to have. You’re the one who knows your body best, so think about what kind of potential problems you’d want to avoid or what kind of benefits you’d like to gain. 

For instance, if you’re prone to sweating throughout the night, you’d ideally look for a pillow that features temperature control. This feature will keep you cool throughout the night, as well as during hot summer nights.

Decide on a Budget

Lastly, work out your budget and do your best to stick to it. The pillows we’ve showcased today range from around £15 to £115, which is typically the price range for pillows. Decide how much you’re willing to invest in your pillow, but keep in mind that it’s an investment that will last you for years on end.

FAQs

Do I Need to Wash my Pillows?

Yes, pillows require frequent washing. Whether it’s fine to put them in the washing machine will depend on the type of pillow you have. Most pillows can be washed in a machine, but they may require a specific temperature in order to preserve the quality and delicacy of the pillow. Ideally, you need to wash your pillows every two to four weeks and change your pillowcases at least once a week to prevent any breakouts and bacteria. 

How Long Do Pillows Last?

The longevity of your pillow will depend on its quality. Generally speaking, higher quality pillows can last anywhere from one to two years, assuming you’re taking care of them properly. It’s not recommended to keep using your pillow for more than two years. Some signs that it’s due for a replacement include sagginess, lumpiness, and any tears.

What Are the Best Pillows for Side Sleepers?

The best pillows for side sleepers are usually those whose firmness level is either medium-firm or firm. This feature will keep your head and neck aligned when you’re sleeping, preventing bad posture, pain, and soreness.

Why Is My Pillow Dirty?

When you think about it, it’s no wonder our pillows get so dirty overtime. We spend anywhere from seven to nine hours a day lying our head against a pillow, while it soaks up dead skin cells, body oils, and dirt. Throw in some bacteria and dust from the surrounding environment and your pillow is doomed to be stained. It’s generally recommended that we use a pillowcase in order to prevent these factors from taking a toll on our pillows. Don’t forget to change your pillowcase at least once a week, and you will be minimizing your chances of pillow stains.   

What Are the Best Luxury Pillows?

Our recommendation for the best luxury pillow is the Hungarian Goose Down Pillow. It’s the perfect choice if you have a little extra money to splurge on a quality pillow that is so soft and comfortable, you will feel like you’re sleeping on a cloud.  

How Do I Get Rid of Old Pillows?

Getting rid of old pillows is no easy task. There are a couple of ways you can dispose of your old pillows. Some pillows can’t be thrown in a recycle bin, so it’s good to be informed when the time comes. Pillows can be reused in multiple ways, such as providing a bed for your pets. Donating your pillows to an animal shelter is also an option. If your pillow is made from natural ingredients, composting it is always an option.

What Kind of Pillows Do They Use in Five-Star Hotels?

While it’s hard to pinpoint exactly what kinds of pillows are used in five-star hotels, generally speaking, they opt for feather pillows for the luxurious feeling they provide. Some five-star hotels are known for having their own brand of mattresses and pillows, so if you’re really curious about a specific hotel, we’d recommend asking the staff what brand they use.

What Are the Best Pillows for Neck Pain?

Many people suffer from chronic neck pain due to low-quality pillows. If this is you and you’re on the lookout for a new neck-friendly pillow, look no further than the Original Groove Pillow. Its unique design will keep your neck supported throughout the night, preventing pain and soreness.

What Are the Best Affordable Pillows?

The Silentnight Just Like Down Pillow Pack is our recommendation for an affordable pillow that comes in a pack of two. The quality of the pillow is amazing in spite of its price – it contains a premium microfibre cover that will keep you comfortable and supported while sleeping. 

Conclusion

We truly hope you’ve found this article informative and have chosen the perfect pillow for your preferences.

If you want a hassle-free option that will deliver great results, look no further than the Panda Bamboo Pillow. If you’re on a tight budget, you might want to consider the Silentnight Just Like Down Pillow Pack. If the price isn’t an issue, we’d recommend treating yourself to the Hungarian Goose Down Pillow. 

For those who like their products to be organic, the Naturepedic Solid Latex Organic Pillow is an outstanding option. Similarly, if you have sustainability in mind when purchasing a new product, we believe you’ll love the Silentnight Eco Comfort Pillow. 

Those suffering from neck pain will hopefully find relief in the Original Groove Pillow, while those who have a problem with back pain should look into the award-winning SpineAlign Pillow. 

Which of these pillows have you taken a liking to?