15 best pillows of 2025, according to experts
Picking one of the very best pillows to lay your head on is an essential first step for getting a good night's sleep each night. However — landing on the right one can feel a lot like Goldilocks’ quest for the perfect bed; first one's too firm, then the next is too soft, before you finally find one that's just right. But the good news is that there's something out there for everyone — whether you're a side sleeper, or searching for a pillow that will help with neck pain.
Temperature regulation is also key to a good night's kip. Breathable options like bamboo or wool pillows offer natural airflow and moisture-wicking properties, ideal for hot sleepers or anyone prone to overheating. Some brands even incorporate cooling gel to keep things fresh all night long. Plus, if you’re after something that's low-maintenance, many of today's pillows come with machine washable covers or are hypoallergenic, perfect for allergy sufferers.
Whether you're after a memory foam pillow that'll help lessen neck or back pain, an adjustable design that can be tailored to provide the perfect level of support, or something soft and luxurious with a squishy down and feather fill, you're guaranteed to find the right pillow to suit your sleeping preferences in this edit. Happy snoozing!
SKIP TO: Our full reviews | What type of pillow is right for you? | Why is it important to buy new pillows regularly? | Do I need to wash my pillows? | How do I wash my pillows? | What pillows do they use in five-star hotels? | What is the best pillow for my sleep position?
Meet the expert:
- James Higgins, sleep expert & CEO of Ethical Bedding.
How we test the best pillows: GLAMOUR's review process:
To pull together this selection of the best pillows you can buy in 2025, our testers have taken into account customer reviews, search data, and the types of materials used for each product. We’ve rifled through the good and bad comments, so you don’t have to, not to mention we – as a team of fashion, interiors and beauty experts – happen to know a thing or two about which brands have earned their respective places as the best in the business. Plus, with a team of 30+ here at GLAMOUR HQ, it should come as no surprise that we’ve tried our fair share of pillows — from anti-allergy buys, to luxurious goose down options. Our aim is to find you pieces which will last and, should anything about a product signal that that’s not the case, you’ll be the first to know.
Ahead, our full edit of the best pillows in 2025.
Specifications:
- Type: Memory foam + Aerocoil springs.
- Support level: Firm, but adjustable to your liking.
- Cover material: Cotton with body temperature-regulating Stratos technology.
- Machine washable? Yes.
- Sleep trial period? No, Simba's sleep trial doesn't apply to the brand's pillows.
- Hypoallergenic? Yes.
- Tested by: Denise Primbet, Commerce Writer.
Why we love it: Side sleepers, assemble! This is a really good pillow: a high-quality, firmer take on the classic original Simba Hybrid Pillow and the perfect choice for side sleepers. Inside the pillow cover, you’ll find two super-soft Simba Renew cushions, a breathable mesh layer that ensures proper air circulation, and — most importantly — a hybrid layer of Simba Pure foam and tiny, titanium Aerocoil springs, designed to keep your head and neck perfectly supported.
The most adjustable pillow that Simba has launched to date, it can also be configured in five different ways to become a firmer pillow, allowing you to tweak the firmness to suit your exact preferences. This makes it especially handy if you switch between sleeping positions or just want to experiment with different feels.
And let’s not forget Simba’s signature temperature-regulating 100% cotton cover, which is designed to be super breathable. It keeps you cool and comfortable, even during warmer nights. So if you’re after a pillow that combines firmness, customisation, and cooling features, the Simba Firm Hybrid Pillow could be the one for you.
Save money on pillows with great airflow with these Simba Sleep discount codes.
Specifications:
- Type: 50% recycled PET, BPA-free / 50% Oeko-Tex certified bamboo fill.
- Support level: Soft/medium or medium/firm.
- Cover material: 100% eucalyptus fibre.
- Suitable for the washing machine? Outer cover only.
- Sleep trial? No.
- Hypoallergenic? Yes.
- Tested by: Mayola Fernandes, Commerce Writer.
Why we love it: Designed by sleep scientists and recommended by osteopaths, this is a luxurious yet sustainable option for almost any sleeper. Available in three sizes and two firmness options, it’s versatile enough to suit a wide range of sleep preferences. The pillow is filled with a 50/50 blend of air-blown fibre from recycled plastic bottles and Oeko-Tex certified bamboo, which not only offers a plush feel but also supports sustainability.
One of the standout features is the naturally moisture-wicking eucalyptus silk cover, which gives the pillow a soft, indulgent touch while keeping things breathable and cool. If you struggle with allergies, you’ll appreciate its natural resistance to dust mites, dust, and mould, making it a cleaner, hypoallergenic option for sensitive sleepers.
With over 400 glowing reviews and the ability to purchase in singles, pairs, or sets of four, this pillow is clearly well-loved. Whether you’re after comfort, sustainability, or allergen protection, this pillow ticks multiple boxes and does so with style.
Specifications:
- Type: Memory foam and microfibre.
- Support level: Adjustable.
- Cover material: Bamboo viscose.
- Suitable for the washing machine? Only the cover.
- Sleep trial? Yes, 30 nights.
- Hypoallergenic? Yes.
- Tested by: Neamh Randall, Commerce Picture Editor.
Why we love it: The Aeyla Foamo Pillow stands out as one of the few fully adjustable pillows on the market. Filled with gel-infused shredded memory foam, it moulds to your head and neck for tailored support while keeping you cool through the night. You can easily customise the fill by adding or removing foam to match your comfort needs, making it ideal for all sleeping positions.
The bamboo viscose cover adds to the pillow's cooling properties, ensuring breathability and airflow, especially if you're prone to overheating. Plus, it's hypoallergenic, repelling common household allergens – which is a big win for sensitive sleepers like me.
At £89 for a pair, it's a solid deal for those seeking both comfort and customisation. Whether you need extra support or prefer a softer feel, the ability to adjust the foam ensures you get the best of both worlds, making this a smart, versatile choice for better sleep all round.
Dorma Pack of 2 Full Forever Back Sleeper Pillows
Specifications:
- Type: 100% polyester.
- Support level: Medium.
- Cover material: 100% cotton.
- Suitable for the washing machine? Yes.
- Sleep trial? No.
- Hypoallergenic? No.
Why we love it: Aside from the fact that they're actually really comfortable, there's a lot to love about these best-selling pillows. For starters, they're surprisingly affordable — but boast a plush and well-stuffed look that instantly makes any bed look seem that bit more luxurious.
This is all thanks to their premium spiral fibre filling — which not only gives the pillows their lasting plump and bouncy shape, but also provides a lovely level of support that's spot on for those who like to sleep on their backs. Need a non-allergenic version? They've got it. Looking for a pillow for a side or front sleeper that's been made with the same plush ‘Full Forever’ filling? They've got those, too.
And to top it all off, they're all also completely fine to go in the washing machine or tumble dryer — although it's worth noting that they'll require vigorous shaking and plumping if you want to avoid any unfortunate lumps and clumps. However, for the price, we're still very impressed.
TEMPUR Original Medium Firm/ Medium Support Pillow
Specifications:
- Type: Moduled TEMPUR® foam.
- Support level: Medium/firm.
- Cover material: Cotton.
- Suitable for the washing machine? Only the cover.
- Sleep trial? No.
- Hypoallergenic? Yes.
Why we love it: Capable of derailing the course of your whole day, waking up with neck pain is truly the worst. But thankfully, we can still rely on the pressure-relieving powers of the iconic TEMPUR® Original Pillow to make this common ailment a thing of the past.
Ergonomically designed to conform to the unique natural curvature of your head, neck, and shoulders, this iconic foam pillow provides tailored support exactly where it's needed. The result? Fully relaxed neck and shoulder muscles, a properly aligned spine, and considerably less pain and discomfort.
As you'd expect from a foam pillow, the major downside is that it's not a particularly breathable option. However, we do appreciate that while the pillow itself can't be properly washed, it's encased in a luxuriously soft cover that can helpfully be removed for washing at up to 60°C.
Scooms Hungarian Goose Down Pillow
Specifications:
- Type: Hungarian goose down & small white goose feather.
- Support level: Choice of soft-medium or medium-firm.
- Cover material: 100% sateen cotton, 300 thread count.
- Machine washable? Wash at 40° every 6-12 months.
- Sleep trial period? Yes, thirty nights.
- Hypoallergenic? Yes.
- Tested by: Mayola Fernandes, Commerce Writer.
Why we love it: This multi award-winning pillow is a luxurious choice for those seeking both support and softness. Its unique design features a firm inner core of small feathers, wrapped in a plush layer of goose down, providing the perfect balance for a restful night’s sleep. Encased in a high-thread-count cotton cover that’s dust-mite proof, it offers breathability and comfort, too, making it ideal for allergy sufferers.
The pillow is available in two sizes — standard and king — with the option of soft-medium or medium-firm support. It's crafted using eco-friendly technology and filled with responsibly sourced Hungarian goose down and feathers, ensuring sustainability without compromising on comfort. In fact, these features make it a popular choice for high-end hotels aiming to give guests the ultimate sleep experience.
Made in Hungary but designed in the UK, this award-winning pillow has gained recognition for its quality and sustainability. Whether you need firm support or a softer cushion, it's a versatile choice that combines luxury with an eco-conscious design, offering comfort for even the most discerning sleeper.
Specifications:
- Type: Levitex foam.
- Support level: Firm.
- Cover material: 100% Nylon.
- Machine washable? No.
- Sleep trial? 44 nights.
- Hypoallergenic? Yes.
- Tested by: Ali Howard, Freelance Writer.
Why we love it: The Levitex Sleep Posture Pillow is crafted with firm foam that promotes proper spinal alignment, making it a solid choice for anyone dealing with back or neck discomfort. Its unique Levitex foam is designed to relieve pressure while offering firm support, keeping your head and neck in an optimal position throughout the night. If you prefer a firmer feel, this pillow ticks the right boxes.
For me, being able to choose the right size pillow for my height and build made all the difference in keeping my head, neck and spine perfectly aligned. While this one's on the firmer side, it is incredibly comfortable, and the outer casing is ultra soft, so you still get that lovely sinking in feeling.
Priced at £80, it’s on the higher end, but the three-year guarantee and the brand’s commitment to sustainability, including their tree-planting initiative, add extra value. It’s a worthwhile investment if improving posture and reducing discomfort are your main goals. However, if you’re someone who leans toward softer, more cushion-like pillows, it may feel too firm for your liking.
Specifications:
- Type: Microfibre.
- Support level: Soft.
- Cover material: 100% polyester with a soft touch finish.
- Machine washable? Only the cover.
- Sleep trial? 30 nights.
- Hypoallergenic? Yes.
- Tested by: Emily Whitwam, GLAMOUR's Associate Social Media Manager.
Why we love it: With its high-quality Aerosoft microfiber filling that feels just as soft as down, and groundbreaking Outlast® technology that works to keep you consistently cool throughout the night, there's a lot to love about this squishy yet supportive pillow. Best of all, there's even a layer of thinner and individually removable layers of foam — so you can easily adjust the height and firmness to suit your specific sleeping needs.
The breathable and airy cover is helpfully removable, and works to wick away any excess sweat and moisture. But one major upgrade from the original Emma pillow is that this one has a fully washable design — so the whole thing can go in the washing machine.
Whether you sleep on your back, side, or stomach, the Emma Premium Microfibre Pillow is designed to offer maximum comfort with minimal fuss. Plus, if you have allergies — but love the feel of down pillows — we reckon this might be your next best bet.
Woolroom Deluxe Washable Wool Pillow
Specifications:
- Type: Wool.
- Support level: Adjustable – just rearrange the wool fibres to your liking.
- Cover material: Organic cotton.
- Machine washable? Yes, on a wool cycle.
- Sleep trial? No.
- Hypoallergenic? Yes.
- Tested by: Mayola Fernandes, Commerce Writer.
Why we love it: This one strikes a great balance between softness and support, thanks to its natural wool filling. You can adjust the firmness by simply manipulating the wool inside, making it perfect for those who prefer customisable comfort. It offers a cosy yet supportive feel, sitting neatly somewhere between down and firmer microfibre options.
One of the standout features is how easy it is to care for — yes, you can simply chuck the entire pillow in the washing machine, keeping it fresh with minimal fuss. The natural wool also makes this pillow hypoallergenic, helping to reduce allergies and promote a healthier sleep environment. In fact — rumour has it — it's the only pillow to hold the Allergy UK Seal of Approval.
This of it as an investment in both comfort and health, offering a natural, breathable option for a restful night. Whether you're after firm support or a softer feel, this pillow adapts to your needs while remaining eco-friendly and easy to maintain. Perfect for those seeking a long-lasting, hypoallergenic, and customisable sleep solution.
TEMPUR Cloud SmartCool™ Pillow
Specifications:
- Type: TEMPUR Adapt® Material.
- Support level: Choice of soft or medium.
- Cover material: TEMPUR SmartCool™ Technology.
- Machine washable? Yes, at 40 degrees.
- Sleep trial period? 30 nights.
- Hypoallergenic? N/A.
- Tested by: Mayola Fernandes, Commerce Writer.
Why we love it: This pillow scored highly in our tests for comfort, offering excellent cooling properties that promote a restful night's sleep. It's not just about keeping you cool through the night, though; the pillow adapts to your head and neck shape however you prefer to sleep — but its low loft and soft feel make it a particularly perfect pillow for stomach sleepers.
Tempur's pressure-relieving material is made of billions of visco-elastic open cells that adjust to your body temperature and weight, moulding to the contours of your body or, in the case of a pillow, your head, neck, and shoulders. So, it becomes softer in warmer areas where more contact is made and remains firmer in cooler areas, allowing for better blood flow, less tossing and turning, and ultimately a more restful night's sleep.
Basically, if you're looking for a pillow that combines performance, cooling comfort, and thoughtful design, the Tempur SmartCool™ pillows tick all the boxes.
Slumberdown Feels Like Down Medium Support Pillows
Specifications:
- Type: Hollowfibre.
- Support level: Medium.
- Cover material: 100% Polyester.
- Machine washable? Yes.
- Sleep trial? No.
- Hypoallergenic? Yes.
- Tested by: Neamh Randall, Commerce Picture Editor.
Why we love it: The Slumberdown Feels Like Down Pillow offers a budget-friendly solution for those seeking medium support, especially for back sleepers. Its synthetic filling cleverly mimics the softness of down, providing a gentle cradle for your head and neck without being too firm. The pillow strikes a good balance for those who prefer light, airy support rather than a dense, memory foam feel.
Its machine-washable feature adds convenience, especially for allergy sufferers who need to clean pillows frequently. The cover feels soft, though it might not have the luxurious finish of more expensive options. However, it’s hypoallergenic, so it's great for anyone sensitive to dust mites or allergens.
Essentially, this is an affordable option for those who want the comfort of down without the price tag. Though some may find it a bit too soft for side sleeping, for back sleepers, it offers a comfortable, easy-care solution at a very reasonable price point.
REM-Fit 400 Memory Foam Crumbed Pillow
Specifications:
- Type: Memory foam.
- Support level: Medium-firm.
- Cover material: Re-Ax mesh cover.
- Machine washable? Only the removable cover.
- Sleep trial period? 200 nights.
- Hypoallergenic? Yes.
- Tested by: Katie Liery, Senior Manager, Global SEO.
The REM-Fit 400 Memory Foam Crumbed Pillow strikes a fine balance between comfort and support, making it an ideal choice for those seeking relief from neck and shoulder tension. The pillow’s crumbed memory foam fill offers adaptive support, adjusting to your movements throughout the night for a more personalised feel. It’s designed to aid proper spinal alignment, too, which makes a noticeable difference for side sleepers.
Another highlight is the pillow’s Re-Ax fibres, which ensure you stay cool by wicking away moisture. This is especially handy if you’re a hot sleeper. The cover feels light and breathable, contributing to a fresh and comfortable sleep environment. And, the fact that it’s machine washable is a practical touch, adding convenience to its appeal.
Despite its thoughtful design, the pillow may not suit everyone — particularly those who favour a firmer feel — but with its generous 200-night sleep trial, and pretty generous price, it's certainly worth trying.
2pk Duck Feather & Down Medium Pillows
Specifications:
- Type: Feather & down.
- Support level: Medium or firm.
- Cover material: 100% cotton.
- Machine washable? Yes.
- Sleep trial? No.
- Hypoallergenic? No.
- Tested by: Katie Liery, Senior Manager, Global SEO.
Why we love it: Filled with a carefully calculated blend of 85% new white duck feathers, and 15% new white duck down, this pillow pair offers a comfortable blend of support and softness — while still providing enough structure for back and side sleepers.
Encased in a 100% cotton cover, they're breathable and naturally cool — helping to regulate temperature while you sleep. And they're the kind of pillows that can be easily smushed up or moulded to suit the position you’re sleeping in — which could be a pro or con depending on your preference!
These pillows strike a balance between luxury and practicality — making them ideal for everyday use. But with their universal appeal and reasonable price, they'd also certainly work well as spare bed pillows to suit occasional overnight guests.
Specifications:
- Type: Simba Renew Bio fibre.
- Support level: Medium.
- Cover material: Cotton with cool-touch tech.
- Machine washable? Yes.
- Sleep trial period? No.
- Hypoallergenic? Yes.
- Tested by: Mayola Fernandes, Commerce Writer.
The Simba Stratos Pillow is all about cooling comfort with its innovative ‘cool-touch’ tech, which genuinely makes a difference if you tend to overheat at night. The pillow’s down-like filling, made from Simba Renew Bio, feels soft yet supportive, adapting nicely to your head and neck without sinking too much. The cool-touch side keeps things fresh, even through a pillowcase, which is a subtle but handy feature.
Breathability is another win here – thanks to recycled plastic fibres combed into the filling, airflow is noticeably good. It's a pillow designed for those who value sustainability without compromising comfort. Plus, the cotton cover adds to the fresh feel and is easy to maintain with a machine-washable design. The cover itself isn't removable so using a pillowcase is essential to adding an extra layer of protection. Fortunately, though, the entire pillow is machine washable and suitable for tumble drying.
At £60, it's a solid option for those wanting a touch of the famous Simba tech — without breaking the bank. Its balanced softness and cooling tech make it especially appealing if you're a side sleeper or prone to hot nights. If you prefer firmer support, you might want to explore other Simba pillow options, but this one nails it for a plush, eco-friendly sleep.
Pure Silk Standard Pillow - Medium/Firm
Specifications:
- Type: 100% Tussah silk.
- Support level: Medium/firm.
- Cover material: 300TC cotton.
- Suitable for the washing machine? Yes — on a gentle cycle.
- Sleep trial? No.
- Hypoallergenic? Yes.
Why we love it: Boasting even more breathable and moisture-wicking benefits than your precious silk pillowcase, this pillow itself is filled with layers upon layers of hand-stretched Tussah silk. The result? A naturally temperature-regulating pillow that's lovely and cool to lay your head on — as well as being a great hypoallergenic option for allergy sufferers.
With its supportive and relatively firm feel — and rather flat profile — it's the kind of pillow that's guaranteed to go down well with people who sleep on their back or stomach. However, side sleepers will likely require something a little more soft and plump if they want to ensure proper head and neck alignment is maintained throughout the night.
Get particularly hot and sweaty while you sleep? The dense nature of the pure silk fill only further amplifies the impressively cool and breathable nature of the material — meaning you can expect a fully dry and fresh doze.
Pillow FAQs
What type of pillow is right for you?
Clearly, your preferred sleeping position plays a very important role in determining which type of pillow is right for you (more on that below) — but there are also some other pretty important factors worth considering, too:
Supportive and firm, memory foam pillows mould to the exact contours of your head, and are typically seen as some of the best pillows for neck pain. Meanwhile, pillows filled with feathers and down, wool, or fluffy microfibre are plump and squashy, and are the classic pick for anyone prioritising cloud-like softness and comfort. Promising the perfect blend of ergonomic support, and long-lasting comfort, pricey hybrid pillows sit somewhere in-between the two — with their cleverly constructed layers of foam, micro-springs, and down-like fibres.
You'll also definitely want to pick a hypoallergenic pillow if you suffer with asthma, allergies, or sensitive skin. Materials like wool, bamboo, and silk are naturally hypoallergenic and antibacterial — while synthetic fibres like microfibre and hollowfibre can make a great alternative to a sneeze-inducing down filling. If in doubt, there are a few certifications that could be worth looking out for — like the Nomite Standard Mark, Oeko-Tex Standard 100, and the Allergy UK Seal of Approval.
Often overheat at night? Opt for pillows with covers and fillings made from naturally breathable and moisture-wicking fibres like cotton, wool, linen, silk, and bamboo. Famous for trapping heat, memory foam isn't a recommended material for hot sleepers — but thankfully, many modern memory foam pillows are made with clever features like cooling gel technology, breathable mesh, and removable sweat-wicking covers to help prevent this.
Why is it important to buy new pillows regularly?
Over time, pillows lose their shape and support — and this can put unnecessary strain on your neck and back. Essentially, if your pillow feels lumpy, has a permanent odour, or no longer provides the comfort and support it once did, it's time for a new one.
But how regularly will you need to hit the shops? "Pillows should generally be replaced every one to two years, depending on several factors such as the type of pillow, its quality, and your personal preferences", explains James, sleep expert & CEO of Ethical Bedding.
Do I need to wash my pillows?
In short — yes. Pillows accumulate dust mites, dirt, and dead skin cells over time, so you should aim to wash them at least twice a year to keep them fresh and hygienic. But if you have allergies or asthma, you might even want to consider washing them on a quarterly basis.
Regular washing can certainly extend a pillow's lifespan— but replacement every year or so is still necessary for hygiene and support.
How do I wash my pillows?
For specific washing instructions, check the care label. Alternatively, consider this a general guide for each different pillow type and material:
- Feather and down pillows can generally go in the washing machine on a delicate spin cycle with cold water. You can also usually place them in the tumble dryer in a low heat — but consider using dryer balls to fluff them up, and periodically take them out and give them a shake to avoid any clumping.
- Wool pillows are also usually safe to go in the washing machine on a delicate spin cycle with cold water. Some wool pillows are fine to go in the tumble dryer, but air drying is still typically recommended — just gently squeeze out any excess water, and lay them flat.
- Microfibre and hollowfibre pillows can usually go in the washing machine on a gentle cycle with warm water, and tumble drying them on a low heat should also be okay. Consider using dryer balls, and remember to give them a proper shake to ensure the filling is well-distributed.
- Memory foam and latex pillows can't ever go in the washing machine, so spot cleaning with a damp cloth and mild detergent is your best bet. However, they also often come with a removable cover — so you should at least be able to put that part of the pillow in the washing machine.
What pillows do they use in five-star hotels?
Plush, squashy, and expensive, most top hotels use feather pillows. The most high-end ones are typically made with a mix of goose or duck feathers, as well as down feathers — which come from the fluffiest layer on the underneath of a bird’s coat.
Aside from the fact that they probably wont work for people with allergies, the major downside of these kinds of pillows is that they require proper plumping everyday to help them keep their high loft, and plush look. And clearly, they're not a viable option for most vegans.
What is the best pillow for my sleep position?
It's really important that you take your preferred sleep position into consideration when picking a pillow, as this will help you determine just how much height and support you'll need.
According to James, if you're a side sleeper, then keeping your neck in-line with the rest of your body has to be your pillow's main objective. “Side sleepers will need firm pillows with loft to maintain spinal alignment, so options like memory foam, latex, or shredded memory foam will work well”, he adds.
“Back sleepers will benefit most from medium to medium-firm pillows that support the neck’s natural curve and spinal alignment,” he explains. “So they will generally be best suited to bamboo, memory foam, latex, or contoured pillows.”
But what about the special few who like to sleep straight on their stomachs? Making up just 7-10% of the UK population, James says that front sleepers should apparently avoid excessive loft at all cost. “Those who sleep on their stomachs require thin, soft pillows to prevent neck strain. Down or low-loft memory foam pillows will likely be best,” he adds.
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