Pillows

Soft, medium-firm or two feels in one, in natural goose down and feather, hollowfibre, memory foam and pocket springs. How you sleep matters most, so our guide below helps you pick the right one.

Pillow Need-to-Knows

Firm or soft, feather or hollowfibre, memory foam or pocket springs - the right pillow comes down to how you sleep. Here's what's worth knowing, without the jargon.

Choosing by How You Sleep

How you sleep matters more than how soft you like it. Side and back sleepers are usually best with a medium-firm pillow that keeps the neck in line with the spine, while front sleepers need something soft so the neck isn't tilted up. If you change position through the night, a two-sided pillow gives you a firmer side and a softer side.

Natural, Synthetic or Memory Foam?

Feather and down pillows are soft and mouldable, so you can plump them into shape, and they breathe well. Hollowfibre and microfibre are lighter, easy to wash and a good choice if you have allergies. Memory foam holds its shape and cradles your neck, and pocket spring pillows add a little bounce and stay supportive.

Looking After Your Pillows

Give your pillows a good plump every morning to keep them lofty. Many hollowfibre and microfibre pillows can go in the washing machine, while feather and down need a gentle wash and a thorough dry - always check the care label. A pillow protector keeps them fresher for longer.