A Practical Guide to 22 Types of Pillows for Every Sleeper

Waking up feeling fully rested and pain-free can be incredibly satisfying. But if your pillow is the wrong type for your sleep style, you may never achieve that goal. The truth is, not all pillows are created equal. The pillow that helps a stomach sleeper snooze comfortably may be entirely unsuitable for your needs as a side sleeper. That's why understanding the different types of pillows is crucial to finding the right match for your sleep style. In this article, we’ll explore the various types of pillows, including their unique features and ideal uses, to help you find the perfect pillow that reduces discomfort and enables you to wake up feeling your best. If you’re also looking to improve overall bedding comfort, consider adding the Best Hypoallergenic Duvet Insert to your setup.

Yumerest’s cloud-like fluffy duvets can help you reach your sleep goals, too, by creating a breathable, cozy environment that keeps you comfortable throughout the night. 

22 Types of Pillows Compared for Every Sleeper

When it comes to creating a healthy sleep environment, hypoallergenic pillows can make a big difference. These types of pillows resist allergens like dust mites, mold, and pet dander, making them an excellent option for allergy sufferers.

Unlike traditional pillows, hypoallergenic pillows are typically made with synthetic materials that repel allergens or natural materials that resist allergens. If you’re looking to improve your sleep quality and reduce your allergies, hypoallergenic pillows may be able to help.

The Best Hypoallergenic Pillows

Choosing the right pillow can help improve your sleep quality and reduce your allergies. The following list ranks the best hypoallergenic pillows on the market based on our findings and the recommendations of medical professionals. 

1. Memory Foam Pillow

Memory foam, also known as viscoelastic foam, changes shape in response to heat and pressure. Because of this trait, a memory foam pillow molds to a sleeper’s head and neck for customized pressure relief and spinal support. Memory foam’s density and close hug often lead to heat retention, so many manufacturers include features designed for cooling, such as gel infusions. 

Understanding Memory Foam Pillow Fill Options

Many pillows that contain memory foam have an initial odor due to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) left over from the manufacturing process. This should air out within a few days, provided you leave the pillow in a well-ventilated room. 

Two types of memory foam pillow fill are widely available: 

• Block: Block memory foam pillows contour evenly for exceptional support, but they’re slow to regain their shape when the sleeper moves. They’re also more prone to heat retention.

• Shredded: Shredded memory foam pillows have a more traditional feel, allowing sleepers to scrunch and mold the pillow as needed. They’re also generally more breathable, and some have a zippered cover with removable fill for customizable loft and firmness. 

2. Down Pillow

Down is a natural fill material that consists of quill-less feather clusters from underneath a waterfowl’s rough exterior plumage. Down is extremely fluffy, making for light, plush pillows that compress beneath the head. 

Duck down tends to be more affordable, whereas goose down is usually softer and less likely to harbor odors. The fill power measures how many cubic inches of loft an ounce of down occupies. 

What to Look for in a Down Pillow: Fill Power, Ratio, and Ethics

This measurement reflects the size and quality of the down clusters, and higher numbers represent a higher loft. Down pillows are made from the soft fibers close to the skin of a goose, duck, or swan. Since these pillows are sometimes blended with feathers, be sure to look at the down-to-feather ratio when purchasing a down pillow. 

It’s also essential to find an ethically sourced down pillow. Since down is taken from animals, it’s necessary to ensure that down pillows are certified by the Responsible Down Standard, which guides the ethical treatment of ducks and geese. 

3. Down Alternative Pillow

Down alternative pillows are a synthetic version of the classic down pillow. Most down alternative pillows are filled with polyester that mimics the feel of down. Polyester makes down alternative pillows hypoallergenic and much more affordable. If you’re looking for a soft, down-like feel without using actual feathers, a down alternative pillow is a great option. 

4. Feather Pillow

Feather pillows are made from the outer plumage of ducks and geese. The structure of the feathers often lends more support than down. Many pillows combine down and feathers for a balance of softness and support. While durable, feather pillows need regular fluffing to: 

• Maintain their loft

• Redistribute their fill

• Prevent clumping

As is the case with down, feathers may trigger allergic reactions in some sleepers. New feather pillows also occasionally have an odor, and quills could poke through without a sturdy pillowcase. On the plus side, feather pillows offer many of the same benefits as down pillows, like moldability and softness, at a lower price point. 

5. Latex Pillow

Latex pillows are renowned for their responsive contouring, which provides cushioning and support for the sleeper’s head. Like memory foam models, latex pillows are available in shredded and block forms. 

Both are typically breathable and durable. Pillows with shredded fill are more moldable, whereas pillows with block fill excel in maintaining their shape. Some shredded latex pillows also feature zippers and removable fill, allowing for adjustable loft and firmness. 

Understanding Latex Pillow Types: Natural, Synthetic, and Blended

Natural latex, derived from rubber tree sap, is resistant to: 

• Mold

• Mildew

• Dust mites

Synthetic latex uses petrochemicals to mimic the feel of natural latex, making it more affordable but less durable than natural latex. Blended latex combines natural and artificial components to reduce costs while incorporating some natural materials. 

Two methods can be used to produce latex, leading to slightly different performance. 

• Dunlop latex tends to be denser and more durable. 

• Talalay latex is lighter and airier.
  
  

6. Cotton Pillow

Cotton can be used as the primary pillow fill or blended with other materials. It’s natural, breathable, widely available, and easy to clean. The organic version is also allergy-friendly. When used as the primary fill, cotton initially feels plush but flattens over time, resulting in a firmer feel. Regular fluffing is essential to maintaining the pillow’s loft. 

7. Wool Pillow

Though not widely available, sheep’s wool pillows offer durability and temperature regulation. Wool fill is simultaneously breathable, insulating, and moisture-wicking, helping sleepers stay warm in winter and cool in summer. Naturally allergy-friendly, wool can be used on its own or combined with other materials. 

When used as the sole filler, wool is often flat and dense, with little conformity. The fill may also clump over time. Adding cotton or polyester to wool fill: 

• Reduces clumping

• Improves moldability

• Often leads to a more affordable price point

8. Buckwheat Pillow

Buckwheat pillows contain the outer hulls of buckwheat seeds. These pillows are typically firm, heavy, and supportive. Many have adjustable fill so that you can select the loft that’s right for you. Gaps in the shells also allow for exceptional airflow, providing notable cooling. One of the most durable types of fill, buckwheat pillows can last 10 to 20 years with proper care and maintenance. 

Once the fill wears out, you can often replace it with new buckwheat hulls to refresh the pillow. Although buckwheat pillows conform well, their firmness may not be ideal for everyone. The hulls also make rustling noises with movement, which could disturb sleepers who are easily woken up by noise. 

9. Kapok Pillow

Kapok fiber is a natural material that comes from the tropical kapok tree. The silky fibers are light, soft, and bouncy. They provide plush cushioning. Harvesting the fiber has a minimal environmental impact, making kapok pillows popular with eco-conscious shoppers. 

While kapok’s fibers are often compared to cotton due to their appearance and fluffiness, the airy softness of the resulting pillow mimics down. Kapok pillows tend to be more expensive than cotton or down alternative models, and they require regular fluffing to maintain their shape.

10. Microbead Pillow

Made of small polystyrene beads, microbeads are synthetic plastic pellets that resemble the balls inside bean bags. Sometimes called snow beads, they range in size from 0.3 millimeters to 0.8 millimeters. Microbead fill conforms to the head and neck, easing pressure points and making it an option for individuals with sensitive areas. 

The little beads also encourage airflow to maintain a more neutral temperature. Due to its synthetic composition, this filler may emit chemical odors and pose a risk to the environment. Microbead pillows also tend to lose their shape over time and should be treated gently to avoid rips and leaking beads. 

11. Polyester Pillow

Polyester pillows, also known as synthetic or fiberfill pillows, are filled with polyester fibers. These pillows are widely available and tend to be more affordable than other types of pillows. Polyester pillows are lightweight and provide moderate support, making them suitable for a wide range of sleepers. 

One of the main benefits of polyester pillows is their affordability and ease of care. They can be machine-washed and dried, making them convenient for regular maintenance. Polyester pillows may not be as durable as other types of pillows and can lose their shape over time. They also tend to trap heat, which may not be ideal for hot sleepers. 

12. Gel Pillow

Gel pillows are designed to provide a cooling effect and enhance comfort during sleep. These pillows often incorporate gel-infused memory foam or gel layers to help dissipate heat and maintain a consistent temperature. Gel pillows can be an excellent choice for hot sleepers or those who experience night sweats. 

The primary advantage of gel pillows is their ability to stay cool throughout the night. This can help prevent overheating and improve sleep quality. Gel pillows also offer good support and pressure relief, similar to traditional memory foam pillows. But gel pillows can be on the heavier side and may be more expensive than standard memory foam pillows. 

13. Water Pillow

Water pillows are designed with a water-filled core, enabling you to customize the support and firmness to match your preferences. These pillows offer superb support, molding to the shape of your head and neck, which helps maintain proper alignment and minimizes the risk of discomfort. 

The main benefit of water pillows is their adjustable support. By adding or removing water, you can achieve the desired level of firmness. These pillows deliver consistent support throughout the night, regardless of your sleeping position. They can be heavy and may require regular maintenance to ensure they remain correctly filled and leak-free. 

14. Innerspring Pillow

An innerspring pillow is a type of pillow that features an inner layer of steel springs and an outer layer of memory foam. 

Pros: 

• It allows for good airflow to keep the sleeper cool. 

• It contours to the head, providing proper support. 

Cons: 

• The complex design of the pillow makes it expensive. 

Best For: 

• Stomach sleepers are looking for firm support. 

15. Shredded Memory Foam Pillow

Shredded memory foam pillows are a rising alternative to traditional memory foam. Since shredded memory foam pillow filling can be added or removed according to individual preference, shredded memory foam is a good fit for nearly every sleeping preference. 

Pros: 

• Doesn’t clump 

• Moldable 

• Customizable support

• Easy to clean 

Cons: 

• Chemical off-gassing 

• May arrive overstuffed 

• It can wear out over time 

Who this pillow is best for: 

Back and side sleepers. Some stomach sleepers may like shredded memory foam, but others report finding this pillow uncomfortable due to the firmer material. 

16. Bamboo Pillow

Bamboo pillows have been a growing trend in the sleep industry for some time, likely due to their antimicrobial properties and ability to absorb moisture. Most bamboo pillows are made of a shredded foam interior with a bamboo viscose shell, meaning you get the benefits of a shredded memory foam pillow with the cooling properties of bamboo. 

Pros: 

• Antimicrobial 

• Hypoallergenic 

• Cooling and moisture-wicking 

Cons: 

• Chemical off-gassing 

• Heavy pillow weight 

• Difficult to clean 

Who this pillow is best for: 

Back sleepers. Since bamboo pillows are made of dense, shredded memory foam, stomach and side sleepers may find these pillows too firm. 

17. Pregnancy Pillow

Pregnancy pillows are specially designed to provide support and comfort to pregnant women. These pillows come in various shapes and sizes, including U-shaped, C-shaped, and wedge pillows, to accommodate different needs and preferences. One of the main benefits of pregnancy pillows is their ability to alleviate pressure on the back, hips, and abdomen. 

They can help improve sleep quality by providing additional support and promoting proper alignment. Pregnancy pillows are also versatile and can be used in various positions to provide customized comfort. Their large size may not be suitable for all beds or sleeping arrangements. 

18. Travel Pillow

Travel pillows are designed to provide comfort and support during travel. They are available in various shapes, including U-shaped, inflatable, and memory foam, catering to a range of preferences and requirements. The foremost benefit of travel pillows lies in their portability. 

Compact and lightweight, they are effortless to transport while traveling. By providing support and encouraging proper alignment, travel pillows can mitigate neck pain and discomfort during extended trips. Nevertheless, they generally offer less support than traditional pillows and are typically smaller in size. 

19. Decorative Pillow

Decorative pillows, also known as throw pillows, are primarily used for aesthetic purposes rather than support. These pillows come in various shapes, sizes, and designs, adding a touch of style and personality to your bedroom decor. While decorative pillows may not provide significant support, they can enhance the overall comfort and visual appeal of your bed. 

They are often used to complement bedding sets and create a cohesive look. Decorative pillows may require regular cleaning to maintain their appearance and can occupy extra space on the bed.

20. Silk Pillow

Silk pillows are filled with natural silk fibers, offering a luxurious and soft sleeping experience. These pillows are renowned for their smooth texture and hypoallergenic properties, making them ideal for individuals with allergies or sensitive skin. One of the primary benefits of silk pillows is their ability to regulate temperature and absorb moisture. 

This can help keep you cool and comfortable throughout the night. Silk pillows also provide gentle support and are less likely to cause wrinkles or friction on the skin and hair. However, they can be more expensive than other types of pillows and may require specific care to maintain their quality. 

21. Adjustable Pillow

Adjustable pillows allow you to customize the level of support and firmness by adding or removing filling. These pillows often come with removable inserts or adjustable compartments, making them suitable for a wide range of sleepers. One of the main benefits of adjustable pillows is their versatility. 

They can be tailored to suit your specific needs and preferences, providing optimal support and comfort. Adjustable pillows are also easy to maintain, as you can adjust the filling as needed. They may be more expensive than standard pillows and require regular adjustments to maintain their desired level of support. 

22. Orthopedic Pillow

Orthopedic pillows are designed to correct body positioning in bed or while lying on any other surface. Their design conforms to orthopedic guidelines, ensuring the correct placement and support of one or more specific body parts to provide a safe and healthy rest for the sleeper. They are also crafted to alleviate specific types of strain or provide soothing relief for certain types of injuries. 

Pros: 

• Improves body alignment. 

• Reduces pain associated with poor sleeping positions. 

• It can aid in recovering from neck, back, or shoulder injuries. 

• Variety of shapes and sizes to suit different needs. 

Cons: 

• It may take time to get used to it. 

• It can be expensive. 

• It might not be suitable for everyone’s personal comfort preference. 

Who this pillow is best for: 

Back, side, and stomach sleepers with specific needs. Orthopedic pillows are often recommended for individuals who experience neck, back, or shoulder pain during sleep or those recovering from injuries.

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How Do You Choose the Right Type of Pillow for Yourself?

Before we delve into the specifics of different types of pillows, it's helpful to understand how to choose the right one for you. The perfect pillow depends on individual needs, such as: 

• Sleeping position

• Body type

• Health considerations

To make the right choice, consider your primary sleeping position and your preferences regarding firmness and material. Dr. Shelby suggests, “If you can, try before you buy,” and be sure to consider any specific needs, like allergies. 

The Personalized Approach to Pillow Selection

“Filling and materials determine a pillow’s comfort and support,” says Dr. Michael Breus, clinical sleep specialist at Sleep Doctor. “Each pillow type has its pros and cons, and some are better suited to certain body types and sleep styles than others.” 

This is such a personal decision; you’ll need to weigh up your options, taking into account your essential requirements and any preferences you may have. But there is something out there for everybody!

Pillow Sizes

Sleepers should select a pillow size that suits their preferred sleeping position, level of activity, and the size of their bed. Active sleepers may prefer a larger pillow to accommodate their movement, whereas others may opt for the standard size for added versatility. While some models have unique dimensions, five sizes are most common. 

Pillow Shapes

While most sleepers are familiar with a standard rectangular pillow, various shapes are available to cater to different needs. 

The best pillow shape for you depends on your: 

• Sleeping position

• Comfort preferences

• Medical conditions

• Others and their personal needs

Standard

The versatile standard pillow has a traditional rectangular shape. It is the most common option, readily available in various forms: 

• Sizes

• Lofts

• Fill materials

• Firmness levels

A standard pillow accommodates any sleep position. Sleepers can place them beneath their: 

• Heads

• Between their legs

• Under their knees

Contour

Contour pillows are usually made of firm memory foam with a curved surface to cradle the head and neck of side or back sleepers. Some knee pillows are also referred to as contour pillows. These models are designed to fit between the knees of side sleepers, promoting hip alignment. 

Wedge

With their signature triangular shape, wedge pillows are designed to support and elevate the upper or lower body. Typically made of memory foam or polyfoam, these mattresses are popular among sleepers who have conditions that may be exacerbated by lying flat, such as: 

• Acid reflux

• GERD

• Sleep apnea

Some back sleepers also use wedge pillows under their knees to reduce back strain and improve circulation. 

Body Pillow

A favorite among side sleepers and expectant mothers, body pillows are extra-long, typically measuring 20 inches by 54 inches. Sleepers can wrap their arms and legs around a body pillow or lean against it to prop themselves up. 

When placed between the legs, a body pillow can help promote spinal alignment and relieve pressure on the hips. Body pillows come in varying: 

• Shapes

• Weights

• Firmness levels

Cervical 

Also known as orthopedic pillows, cervical pillows are designed to provide ergonomic neck support. Often made of memory foam, they feature a raised area to support the natural curvature of the neck and a dip to cradle the head. Cervical pillows are available in various sizes to accommodate different body types and sleep positions. 

Roll or Bolster

The multifunctional roll or bolster pillow is shaped like a long cylinder, although some have a half-moon shape. Sleepers can use them like a body pillow or place them beneath their knees while lying on their backs. 

Bolster pillows are typically firm and can be filled with any standard fill material. They are often used for decorative purposes.

The Best Pillow for Each Sleep Position

Your sleep position significantly affects the level and type of support you need from a pillow. Whether you sleep on your side, back, or stomach, it’s critical to choose a pillow that promotes proper spinal alignment. If you switch positions during the night, you’ll probably prefer a pillow that fits your primary sleep style but is also compatible with your other sleep positions.

Due to these varying needs, some pillow types are inherently more suitable for specific sleep positions. That said, each model and each sleeper is unique, so it’s essential to consider variations when selecting a pillow. We’ll break down shared pillow preferences based on sleep position and suggest some pillow types that may suit your needs. 

What Each Sleep Position Needs

Side Sleepers

A pillow with a medium to high loft (3 to 5+ inches) and a mid-range firmness. When lying on your side, a significant gap often exists between your head and the mattress. A higher loft fills in the gap to keep the head and neck aligned with the body. The firmness level also makes a difference. Side sleepers usually prefer a medium-firm pillow for balanced support and cushioning.

Many side sleepers prefer a model with an adjustable loft and firmness, allowing them to fine-tune the pillow to their body shape and personal preference. 

Why Side Sleepers Need a High-Loft Pillow

“Side sleepers tend to need a high-loft pillow for support and to fill the space beneath the head and neck to promote proper spinal alignment. Keep your head and neck in alignment at around 30 degrees with the help of a good pillow so your airway stays open during the night, allowing air to flow from your nose to my lungs without obstruction.” – Sarah Silverman, Psy.D., a licensed psychologist and holistic sleep wellness consultant who treats patients in New York and Florida.

Back Sleepers

A pillow with a medium loft (3 to 5 inches) and a medium firmness. Back sleepers typically require a lower loft than side sleepers to prevent their heads from tilting too far forward, which can strain their necks. 

The ideal pillow keeps the neck in a neutral position, neither pushing the head forward nor letting it sag. Meanwhile, a medium firmness provides cushioning without collapsing under the weight of the head. 

Stomach Sleepers

A soft to a medium pillow with a low loft (under 3 inches). Lying on the stomach unintentionally puts extra pressure on the neck. A firmer pillow or a model with a higher loft tilts the head upwards, contributing to neck strain. 

For that reason, some stomach sleepers use no pillow. Stomach sleepers who use a pillow typically prefer a soft, thin, and moldable model that compresses easily.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Pillow

Now it’s time to choose your pillow wisely to ensure it provides the most comfortable sleep and support for your body that you can dream of.

Below are the key factors to consider before purchasing a pillow. 

• Your sleeping position: Based on whether you are a back sleeper, stomach sleeper, side sleeper, or combination sleeper, choose the right firmness and loft. 

• Your mattress size: Please consider the size of your mattress to ensure a proper fit. E.g., King-size pillows can’t fit a standard mattress. 

• Purpose of the pillow: What do you need it for? To decorate your bed or for travel purposes? For medical use or generic? 

• Pricing & quality: Consider your budget and pick the best available pillow under it. 

• Fabric & filling used: Consider the weather, allergies, preferred material, and firmness.

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