The best pillows in the UK 2023

The pillow is an often underestimated bedding accessory. As important as the mattress, it helps to relieve neck pain as well as tension in the shoulders and back. With a good pillow, you can improve your deep sleep by about 24 minutes and say goodbye to feelings of fatigue as soon as you wake up. You will be more productive.

L’oreiller Ergonomique Eve
9/10

Best value for money

Eve ergonomic pillow

The best pillow in 2021

Comfort starts with your head. The Eve ergonomic pillow was designed with this in mind, no matter what your bedtime position is. The combination of the foam filling and the softness of its cover is nothing short of perfection.

55,20 £ on Evesleep

The Ergonomic Eve pillow is available in only one size, 50 x 75 cm. Both firm and soft, this model provides optimal support for your head, neck and shoulders. The core of the pillow is made of viscoelastic memory foam with a density of 45 kg/m3. It benefits from the UltraFresh treatment to prevent mold and bacteria.

Hypoallergenic, the removable cover in stretch fabric will make you benefit from its great breathability. The cleaning is even easier since it can be machine washed at 40°C. Thanks to its increased comfort level, you will not be able to do without it. With an OEKO-TEX Standard Class 1 certification, the Eve ergonomic pillow has a 14-day no obligation trial.

Sleepling Comfort 190020
7/10

Best value for money

Sleepling Comfort 190020

The best entry-level pillow

The Sleepling Comfort 190020 can be used as a pillow or sofa cushion. Available in various sizes, it features a polyester filling and cover, the ideal material for a soft and comfortable sleep.

See price

The stitched microfiber cover provides softness during your nights of sleep. This material is hypoallergenic, which makes the pillow suitable for allergy-sensitive people. In addition, the filling is made of polyester hollow fiber beads, guaranteeing an unparalleled feeling of comfort.

In accordance with the OEKO-TEX Standard 100, this pillow can be machine washed and dried at a maximum temperature of 60°C. The pillow can be adjusted to your liking with a zipper that allows you to remove the filling.

Technogel Anatomic Curve
8/10

Best value for money

Technogel Anatomic Curve

The best high-end pillow

This model is the ultimate in ergonomic cervical pillows. Molded in 3D, it will meet the needs of those who often sleep on their back or side. The level of support is incomparable.

See price

Innovative design, breathable material, foam composition... are among the many benefits of the Technogel Anatomic Curve. This cervical pillow is made of Technogels patented gel combined with a memory foam base. The whole thing fits perfectly with your body to make your nights peaceful and idyllic. It effectively relieves tension in your neck, spine and shoulders.

This 11 cm thick gel cushion is hypoallergenic, which makes it suitable for people with neck pain and allergies. Best of all, it contains no harmful substances and remains odorless and biocompatible. The pillowcase is of course washable and ironable.

L’incroyable oreiller Tediber
8/10

A great choice

L'incroyable oreiller Tediber

The best feather and down pillow

Produced by a French brand specialized in bedding, the incredible Tediber pillow promises long and wonderful nights of sleep. You'll definitely be won over by its plumpness and excellent support.

68 £ on Tediber
Buying guide • November 2023

Best pillow

Any specific needs?

The best pillow in 2021

The best entry-level pillow

The best high-end pillow

The best feather and down pillow

Your guide : Samuel

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Comparison table of the best pillows

TOP OF THE TOP CHEAP TOP OF THE LINE EXCELLENT
L’oreiller Ergonomique Eve
9/10
Sleepling Comfort 190020
7/10
Technogel Anatomic Curve
8/10
L’incroyable oreiller Tediber
8/10
OUR SELECTION
Eve ergonomic pillow
Sleepling Comfort 190020
Technogel Anatomic Curve
L'incroyable oreiller Tediber
Comfort starts with your head. The Eve ergonomic pillow was designed with this in mind, no matter what your bedtime position is. The combination of the foam filling and the softness of its cover is nothing short of perfection.
The Sleepling Comfort 190020 can be used as a pillow or sofa cushion. Available in various sizes, it features a polyester filling and cover, the ideal material for a soft and comfortable sleep.
This model is the ultimate in ergonomic cervical pillows. Molded in 3D, it will meet the needs of those who often sleep on their back or side. The level of support is incomparable.
Produced by a French brand specialized in bedding, the incredible Tediber pillow promises long and wonderful nights of sleep. You'll definitely be won over by its plumpness and excellent support.
Dimensions
50 x 75 cm
40 x 40 cm

66 x 40 x 11 cm
60 x 60 cm, 50 x 70 cm or 50 x 80 cm
Cover material
100% polyester
100% polyester
Inner cover : 100% Cotton
Outer cover : 53.5% Polyester, 45% Modal, 1.5% Elastane
100% cotton twill
Lining
Viscoelastic memory foam with a density of 45 kg/m³
100% polyester hollow fiber beads
Technogel patented Anatomic Curve, memory foam base
White duck feathers and down
Certification
OEKO-TEX Standard Class 1
Standard 100 by OEKO-TEX
Oeko-Tex
OEKO-TEX Standard 100
Machine washable
Yes, at 40 °C maximum
Yes, up to 60°C
Yes
Yes, at 40°C

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How to choose your pillow

#1 - Do the compression test

Just because a pillow's label says it's "firm" or that it's for side or back sleepers doesn't mean it's the right support for you. Go a step further and do your own firmness test. If you are in a store, place the pillow on a flat surface and compress it with your palm to about half its original thickness. The more pressure you have to apply, the firmer the pillow. At home, do the same test and try the pillow on your bed.

#2 - Buff the pants

Pillows with pieces of filling inside instead of, say, a single piece of foam can lose their shape and make sleeping uncomfortable. So after testing a pillow for firmness, fluff it up to see if it returns to its original shape and thickness. Make sure the filling is even throughout the pillow.

#3 - Consider how breathable they are

Most pillows allow air to circulate, but the denser the pillow, the less breathable it is. If you tend to sleep in the heat, look for a pillow with pieces of filling that allow air to circulate, such as polyester filling, feathers or foam pieces.

#4 - Check the cover

A

well-made cover helps a pillow last longer. Look for clean stitching, straight seams, and piping, which reduces edge wear. Some pillows may have zippers, making it easier to adjust the fill and clean the cover. A tightly woven cover protects the fill.

#5 - The size of the pillow

The size of your pillow will greatly affect the quality of your sleep. When the pillow complements the size of your bed, it looks great and provides support no matter how much you move while you sleep. The three most common pillow sizes are standard, queen and king.

Pillows are generally made to complement standard bed sizes. For example, a king size pillow measures 50.8 cm by 91 cm so that two king size pillows will fit the 183 cm width of your king size bed. Choose a pillow size by first determining the size of your bed.

Your sleeping position is important

Your preferred sleeping position says a lot about the type of pillow you need. If you sleep on your back, you need a different type of support than someone who sleeps on their side. Neck or back problems will also determine the type of support you need. The right pillow for your sleeping position can help relieve neck and back pain. Learn more about common sleeping positions and the pillows we recommend for them.

  • If you are used to sleeping on your back: If you sleep on your back, your head and neck need minimal support. A pillow that is too dense may push your head too far forward and possibly stretch your neck. Choose a low or medium density pillow or a contour pillow that supports the neck while keeping the body aligned.
  • If you are used to sleeping on your side: If you are used to sleeping on your side you will need extra support to keep your neck and head aligned with your body. Poor support can lead to shoulder pain. A medium density pillow supports the neck and relieves shoulder pressure without overextending the neck to the side.
  • If you are used to sleeping on your stomach: A soft, low-density pillow is ideal if you are used to sleeping on your stomach. When you sleep on your stomach, you lie flat with your head turned to the side. Soft, low-density pillows provide support and relief to the neck while keeping the body aligned.

How do you care for your pillows?

Most pillows are machine washable, usually on cold. But be sure to check the manufacturer's cleaning specifications on your pillow before washing it. Some materials, such as foam sheets, should not be machine washed.

Unless your pillow is made from a single piece of foam, fluffing it up daily will help it retain its shape. Check the label on the pillow - some manufacturers recommend putting a pillow in the dryer for a few minutes to help fluff the pillow as often as you need it.

AAFA recommends washing pillows once a month with hot water (if the manufacturer allows) to eliminate dust mites.

The secret of baking soda

Baking soda freshens foam pillows, just like it removes odors from a refrigerator. Sprinkle baking soda on the pillow and let it sit for about half an hour. To remove the baking soda, brush it into a trash can or vacuum it up. Turn the pillow over and repeat the process.

The different types of pillows

The pillows available on the market come in different shapes and sizes. But also with different fillings:

Polyester pillows

Polyester fiber filling is the most common type of pillow on the market. It is also the least expensive type of pillow. Polyester pillows usually have a filling that looks like cotton. Unfortunately, they don't hold their shape well. So you may end up replacing this type of pillow more often than other types.Pros:

  • Price: This is the most affordable pillow on the market. They cost about 10 to 15 euros.
  • Weight: This type of pillow is light, easy to maneuver and does not take up much space.
  • Softness: One of the main characteristics of polyester is that it mimics is the softness of cotton.In addition, it does not absorb body odor as much as other types of pillows.
  • Breathable: Polyester pillows ventilate very well, they do not retain body heat during sleep.

Disadvantages:

  • Durability: Polyester pillows tend to flatten out too quickly. They are not very durable, so you may need to change them after about six months when they start to lose their consistency.
  • Lumps: These pillows often lose their shape and become lumpy, which can cause neck and shoulder pain.
  • Dust mites: Even though polyester is a reputedly hypoallergenic material, it still tends to attract dust mites.

Who is it for?This type of pillow will work well if you are on a budget, or if you are not very concerned about durability. It will not be suitable if you need firm support.

Memory foam pillows

Memory foam is the same material (polyurethane) that many mattresses are made of. Memory foam pillows can be made of a solid layer of memory foam or cut pieces. Pillows with memory foam fillings are generally denser than polyester or shredded foam pillows, and they tend to conform to the shape of your head. This type of pillow tends to not be as breathable as other types of pillows, which means you may get a bit of a hot head at night.

Benefits:

  • Support: Memory foam pillows offer excellent support. which allows them to keep your head and neck in the ideal position for you.
  • Softness: This type of pillow is known for its softness, as the foam filling is smooth and tightly packed without lumps. Even as it ages and wears, memory foam remains very smooth.
  • Comfort: With this type of pillow, your comfort will last all night. Because of their firmness, a memory foam pillow does not compress as flat as a feather pillow, even over a longer period of time. This means there is less need to rearrange or flip pillows.
  • Durability: They last a very long time and are very durable

Disadvantages:

  • Ventilation: This type of pillow does not breathe as well as a feather pillow. Memory foam is not a particularly breathable material, which means it can retain heat. This can be potentially uncomfortable for you, especially if you live in a hot area.
  • Weight: Because of their initial firmness and compact construction, memory foam pillows tend to be much heavier than their down counterparts. They are more cumbersome and difficult to maneuver and store.
  • Sleeping position: Memory foam is generally considered best for back sleepers, as it provides the best back and neck support that way. The support may be too stiff for people who prefer to sleep on their side or stomach.

Who is it for?

This type of pillow will work well for you if you suffer from neck and back pain.

Feather pillows

Feather pillows are extremely soft. Down pillows and feather/down blends are firmer, but they also tend to be much more expensive. Feather and down pillows are very traditional, but have fallen out of favor somewhat in recent years. Some people find them too "old-fashioned"; others are concerned about the ethical implications of using animal products in pillows.

Benefits :

  • Volume: If you like larger, taller pillows, feather pillows will give you what you're looking for.. And if you choose a 100% down or down/feather filling, you're guaranteed a soft pillow with excellent support that will last over time.
  • Breathable: Feather pillows are highly breathable, which means that even in hot weather, they'll keep you from getting a hot flash while you sleep. Ensuring maximum comfort.
  • Durable: Feather pillows are durable, especially down/feather blends. In fact, once relieved of the compression of your head, the down that makes up the filling will quickly return to its original spherical shape. They will take longer to flatten out completely.

Disadvantages:

  • Ethics: The main disadvantage of this type of pillow is their origin: although a very strict regulation frames the use of this type of material to reduce animal suffering as much as possible, some countries are less careful than others. So if you are committed to the animal cause, do not choose a feather pillow.
  • Price: Because they tend to be softer, more breathable and as durable as other types of pillows, feather pillows (especially down pillows) tend to be much more expensive.
  • Sensitive to perspiration: This type of pillow does not tolerate moisture, let alone fat accumulation. If you tend to sweat a lot while you sleep, or if you have a habit of doing a styling routine involving greasy products before bed, this type of pillow is not for you.

Who is it for?

If you're looking for a soft but supportive pillow, and you don't tend to sweat profusely while you sleep, this type of pillow will suit you. However, we recommend that you choose a pillow made of both feathers and down, or 100% down, as they are much more durable.

Pillow or bolster?

Pillow

Sometimes you can't sleep without the right pillow. Its role is to provide optimal comfort and a better resting position. One of its advantages is that it can soothe neck pain, as the head is placed on an elevated area. It also helps relieve neck pain. In short, a pillow provides better body support to promote sleep.

However, this type of pillow does have its drawbacks. It can cause neck pain, which occurs when it is placed incorrectly. It is also the main source of wrinkles on the face. In addition, the location of the spine changes if you often sleep on a thick pillow.

Bolster

Using a bolster with your pillow can be a real benefit to getting to sleep. It is a long cylindrical pillow that helps most people find a good relaxing position, especially those who sleep on their side. There are many ways to position it for relief. You can place it under one side of the body or use it to hug and mold against you. This variety of pillows is especially beneficial for people with sciatica.

In fact, health and wellness practitioners also use a bolster as a means of relaxing and revitalizing the body. The downside is that it can be complicated for some people to sleep with a bolster, as it often seems too high. On the other hand, it is less comfortable than the pillow, since it is often used by two people.

Verdict

If you have trouble getting to sleep, the bolster will meet your needs. But for more comfort during sleep, opt for an individual pillow.

The benefits of using a good pillow

Comfort

One of the benefits of using a pillow is comfort. With a pillow, you have the ability to rest your head on an elevated area away from the rest of your body. If you have trouble falling asleep, you should look at the pillow you use. A good pillow should allow for an even distribution of your body weight while you sleep. With a good pillow, you can be sure that you will sleep comfortably. You don't have to worry about waking up tired or numb.

Relieves pain

A good pillow can help relieve your pain while you sleep. Some people have trouble sleeping because of neck pain. The reason neck pain persists is due to using the wrong pillow. Good neck pillows are supposed to relieve pressure on the neck, these pillows help relieve a sore neck. There are also pillows that promote good sleep for people with back pain and also during pregnancy.

Support

Poor body support is a cause of insomnia for many people. After a long day of work, you need proper body support to promote sleep. If the body is not properly supported, it affects the quality of your sleep. If you are one of those people who always have trouble getting to sleep at night, consider changing the pillow you use. A good pillow will give you the support your body needs.

Adapts to any sleeping position

Everyone has a unique sleeping position and it's important to choose a pillow that fits your sleeping position. If you sleep on your back, choose a pillow to support your back. However, if you sleep on your side, choose a pillow for that sleeping position.

Improves sleep

It helps you sleep peacefully, especially if you move around a lot, because it will return to its shape no matter what position you are in.

The best brands of pillows

In our opinion, the best brands of pillows in 2022 are :

ZenPur
BedStory
BLEUCÂLIN
DODO
Baldiflex

ZenPur is a brand that specializes in manufacturing high quality memory foam mattresses that has been around for 25 years. The brand is known for using mostly natural products in the design of their memory foam.

BedStory is an American brand that has specialized in manufacturing memory foam mattresses for 36 years. The brand's mission is to market memory foam that is able to relieve pressure points and provide a soft feeling during sleep.

BLEUCÂLIN is a brand of the French company Willefert that has been around since 1925. The brand enjoys an excellent reputation due to the quality and comfort of its pillows, duvets, quilts, as well as its quilted blankets.

And yet another French brand that shines with the quality of its products. DODO has been around for 80 years now, and it specializes in making innovative bedding items that are accessible to all households.

Baldiflex is an Italian brand that values family know-how to offer only excellent quality products at an affordable price. It offers a service that is as fast as it is reliable.

What is the price for a pillow

The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).

However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.

We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.

Entry-level
10 £ to 45 £
Mid-range
45 £ to 80 £
High-end
more than 80 £
Price range diagram

Tips

Try to match the firmness of your pillow to the firmness of your mattress.

If you have a firm mattress, you will need a firm, high pillow because your shoulder will not sink much into the mattress. So you'll need a firm pillow to effectively support your neck. If you have a memory foam mattress topper, you will need a softer pillow that is not too high, as your shoulder will sink into the bed.

2 pillows are enough.

Choose

the firmness and support of your pillows carefully. This way you won't need to pack a lot of pillows, two will be more than enough.

Wash your pillows regularly.

Over

time, your pillows will accumulate dust, sweat, and grease from hair products. Don't neglect the hygiene of your pillows, send them to the wash as often as necessary. This will give you pillows that last longer and limit the risk of illness and allergy.

Think about removing odors regularly...

To

keep your pillows as comfortable as possible, treat them with baking soda to remove strong odors (sweat, hair products, saliva...). Baking soda will help you freshen up foam pillows (just as it eliminates refrigerator odors). Sprinkle the baking soda on the pillow and let it set for about half an hour. To remove the baking soda, brush your pillow, or clean it with a vacuum cleaner.

... Or use a scented spray.

Instead of baking soda, you can also use a scented spray designed to freshen fabrics. A spray with restful fragrances, such as lavender can help you fall asleep or relax more quickly.

FAQ

What is the best pillow?

The best pillow depends on your needs and your budget. Read our buying guide to learn more.

What is the best pillow filling?

There

really is no "best" filling: what works for you depends on your needs and preferences. If you're not sure what you need, don't be afraid to experiment. When in doubt, hollow fiber pillows are generally versatile and affordable. However, they may not be right for everyone.

How often should you replace your pillow?

If

your pillows are stained or lumpy, or if you wake up with a sore back or neck, it's probably time for a new pillow. Even if you don't notice these problems, it's a good idea to replace hollow fiber pillows every six months to a year. High-quality memory foam pillows should be replaced every three to four years.

Should I get an antimicrobial pillow?

Anti-microbial pillows reduce the amount of bacteria and dust mites that may accumulate in your pillow. If you have a fragile immune system or are particularly concerned about bacteria, an antimicrobial pillow will give you some peace of mind.

Are there specific pillows to solve specific problems?

Yes

. If you have a particular problem or condition, certain pillows may be more suitable for you. For example, if you suffer from sleep apnea or acid reflux, you should opt for a very firm pillow to help you maintain a nearly upright position while sleeping. If you have chronic neck pain, you may want to consider an orthopedic pillow for neck support.

Sources

Note: Below are some of the sources we have consulted in writing this article. Links to other sites are not continuously updated. It is therefore possible that a link may not be found. Please use a search engine to find the desired information.
  1. Changing Bedding: a purchase you shouldn't make with your eyes closedPillow Buying Guide, 60millions-mag.com
  2. Home & Garden Fitness & Sports Technology Family & Pets Health & Beauty Kitchen The Best Pillows for a Quality Night's Sleep, consumerreports.org
  3. 4 Best Pillows July 2020, Consumersearch.com
  4. The Best Bed Pillows for 2020 - Reviews by Wirecutter, bestreviews.com
  5. How to Freshen Foam Bed Pillows, thewirecutter.com
  6. 8 Best Pillows for All Types of Sleepers, sfgate.com
  7. Best pillow 2020: Sleep well with these top-rated pillows, thespruce.com
  8. How do you choose the pillow that will best fit your needs?, toptenreviews.com
  9. Bedding Guide : Advice, guideliterie.com
  10. information and help to choose bedding, guideliterie.com
  11. Washing in feather pillow?, noctea.com
  12. How to choose your pillow, auchan.fr
  13. Pillow Buying Guide - How to choose your pillow, linenchest.com
  14. How to choose your pillow, dodo.fr
  15. Pillow : Ergonomic, Memory Foam - Bolster - IKEA, bienchoisirsaliterie.com
  16. Bedding: pillows for your home : Amazon.co.uk, ikea.com
  17. Pillow - Ergonomic, memory foam | La Redoute, amazon.co.uk
  18. Pillow - Buy Pillows Online | Maison de la Literie, laredoute.fr
  19. Pillows : Memory foam pillow, firm, soft ..., maisondelaliterie.fr
  20. Pillows : Cheap Bed Linen in Delivery and Drive, dodo.fr
  21. Best Pillows 2021 - Test and Compare, carrefour.fr
  22. Pillow - Cheap Bolster - Conforama, futura-sciences.com
  23. Find the perfect pillow made for you | Tempur, conforama.fr
  24. Pillow - Adult Bed Linen | alinea, fr.tempur.com
  25. DODO Pillows | DODO, alinea.com
  26. Pillow : Discover our Offers | La Compagnie du lit, dodo.fr
  27. Our Pillows | La Maison de l'Oreiller Paris, the specialist, lacompagniedulit.com
  28. Cheap pillows and bolsters at Auchan prices, lamaisondeloreiller.com
  29. Wopilo pillows - Ergonomic and comfort pillows, auchan.fr
  30. Buy Pillow Cotton Twill 100% made in the UK Tediber, wopilo.com
  31. Pillow : Ergonomic pillow, firm pillow | DROUAULT, tediber.com
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  33. Pillow and bolster | Becquet, fr.wikipedia.org
  34. Pillow : Comparison Ranking and Guide 2021, becquet.fr
  35. , sleeps.fr
See more

Updates

March 2022 : Translation of this buying guide from our partner meilleurtest.fr

See more
Our selection
L’oreiller Ergonomique Eve
Eve ergonomic pillow
Sleepling Comfort 190020
Sleepling Comfort 190020
Technogel Anatomic Curve
Technogel Anatomic Curve
L’incroyable oreiller Tediber
L'incroyable oreiller Tediber

Lecteurs

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