13 best pillows for all kinds of sleepers
Feel like you're sleeping on a cloud with our roundup of the best pillows - including this must-have latex pillow that shoppers say "improved the quality" of their sleep.
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Who doesn’t love a bit of pillow talk?
Whether you’re looking for a hypo-allergenic pillow that can help keep your allergies at bay, or a memory foam pillow to maintain good sleeping posture, there are plenty of options to choose from.
But if waking up with a sore neck has taught us anything, there’s no such thing as a one-size fits all sleep pillow. Some prefer high and firm, while others need something low and super soft to get a decent night’s rest.
That’s why we’ve narrowed down several highly recommended options and listed a few buying tips to help you find the right pillow. One of our favourites is the “very comfortable” Origin CoolMax Latex Pillow which shoppers say "improved their quality of sleep" and "makes a big difference".
We've also got our eye on the Koala Pillow which lets you adjust the firmness to suit you and is suitable for all types of sleepers.
OUR TOP PICKS
BEST PILLOW FOR NECK PAIN
Emma Foam Pillow, $119.40 (down from $199) at Emma Sleep
What You Need To Know
If you prefer to invest a little more for a good night’s sleep, then it’s worth considering Emma’s Foam Pillow. It features adjustable height and firmness levels, plus adapts to your head and neck to give you the usual customised fit memory foam pillows are known for.
For those who prefer to sleep on their stomach, you can stick to just using one layer. Back sleepers can alternatively choose between having two or three layers, while side sleepers are recommended to use all three layers for ultimate support and comfort.
“After having a bad experience with another pillow company that did not offer a trial period, I ordered an Emma pillow at 9.30pm at night, and had it the next day at 3.30pm! I was blown away at how quick the service was, and the pillow was everything I had hoped for,” praised a shopper on Product Review.
“It has amazing firm support and I love how you can customise the different heights to suit different sleeping positions. If you are after a pillow on the firmer side, but still with a lovely soft memory foam cushioning, then this the pillow for you!”
“I’m coming from a $25 Kmart pillow, so it was a big change for me. When I first got my pillow my first night's sleep wasn’t good and my head felt sore from how firm it is. I was determined to give it a good go, so I took out the middle layer of foam to make it thinner and slightly softer and I’ve slept amazingly since,” another wrote.
BEST MEMORY FOAM PILLOW
Eva The Eva Pillow, $120 at Eva
The Eva Pillow
What You Need To Know
Love an adjustable mattress? This award-winning bed-in-a-box brand also lets you switch up firmness levels with their The Eva Pillow. It features two adjustable firmness levels to cater to most types of sleeping positions, and can be changed by removing the outer cover for a firmer feel or leaving it on for something softer. The outer edges are additionally made to be firmer than the middle to help support your neck while you sleep, while the memory foam is made at a density that allows it to mould to your body and keep the shape without losing the ‘cloud-like’ feeling.
“I am one of those guys that is constantly flipping his pillow in the night searching for that untapped cooler spot so my head doesn’t overheat. In this pillow I have found something that really does keep my head at the perfect temp,” a shopper reviewed, rating it five stars.
“Somebody pinch me, is this a dream? Damn fine pillow!”
Another agreed, writing, “Love this pillow – it is our go-to pillow. (It’s) literally what dreams are made of. Great price point, great quality all ensure you get a great night's rest with this pillow.”
BEST HYPOALLERGENIC PILLOW
Tontine Good Night Allergy Sensitive Pillow, $33.57 (down from $55.95) at Myer
Tontine Good Night Allergy Sensitive Pillow
What You Need To Know
These pillows from trusted brand, Tontine, have been designed to help those with allergies and have been approved by the National Asthma Council of Australia’s Sensitive Choice Program. They feature premium polyester filling, treated with Tontine BIOGUARD, to inhibit the growth of common allergy triggers, such as mould, bacteria and dust mites and are covered with soft and breathable natural cotton. They offer medium height, support and feel and can be washed in the machine for added hygiene and peace of mind.
“I love these pillows, All our family are allergy sensitive, they give us a good night sleep,” a happy customer commented on the Tontine website.
“Best pillows ever. Soft, but firm. I would definitely buy again and recommend to others,” wrote another.
BEST LATEX PILLOW
Origin CoolMax Latex Pillow, $118.30 (down from $169) at Origin
Origin CoolMax Latex Pillow
What You Should Know
For hot sleepers looking for head and neck support, the Origin CoolMax Latex Pillow is a cool option. Similar to memory foam pillows, latex foam moulds to the shape of your head and can typically hold its shape for years. They also contain hypo-allergenic properties to minimise the amount of dust and bacteria in your pillows. The Origin latex pillow additionally features Tencel fabric, making it lightweight and ideal for hot water climates.
“I haven’t woken up with a stiff neck since using my Origin Latex pillow. I love it to bits,” a happy reviewer posted.
“I am usually disappointed with pillows as they squash and are then useless – this one just springs back and stays firm, but very comfortable … making it easier to get a good sleep,” another customer wrote.
Some reviewers on the Origin Malaysia site say it "made a big difference" to their sleep and "improved the quality".
BEST CUSTOMISABLE PILLOW
The Koala Pillow, $155 at Koala
The Koala Pillow
What You Should Know
From a brand aptly named after one of the cuddliest animals, The Koala Pillow is made from polyurethane gel foam that manages moisture and heat. It also has a flexible two-in-one design where you can flip this pillow to change the firmness level to suit you – one side is softer and one side is firmer.
“I was a bit skeptical when purchasing a foam pillow but The Koala Pillow turned out to be a great investment for a good night’s sleep. This adjustable pillow offers flippable firmness which is my favourite feature and is perfect for all sleepers,” praised a customer.
“Fantastic Pillow for a Perfect Night's Sleep! I've been using the Koala pillow for a few weeks now, and I can't believe the difference it's made. The pillow strikes the perfect balance between support and comfort, molding to my head and neck in a way that feels custom-made. I love how it stays cool throughout the night, which has significantly improved my sleep quality," another wrote.
"It's clear that a lot of thought has gone into its design and materials. Whether you sleep on your back, side, or stomach, the Koala pillow adapts beautifully. Highly recommended for anyone looking to upgrade their sleep experience.”
BEST SOFT PILLOW
What You Should Know
This premium pillow from Downia contains 85 per cent white goose Down and 15 per cent goose feather, all of which is encased in a 280-thread cotton cover for ultimate fluffiness. The pillowcase is additionally made from a downproof fabric to prevent feathers from seeping out.
“Snuggling into this soft pillow is like being comforted by a cloud. The pillow conforms to the perfect shape for you to have a blissful nights’ sleep,” posted an impressed customer.
“Definitely worth the money. This pillow is very high quality and soft,” a different shopper wrote.
BEST PILLOW FOR STOMACH AND BACK SLEEPERS
MiniJumbuk Breathe & Support Latex Pillow (Low/Medium Profile), $125 (down from $249.99) at Myer
What You Should Know
The MiniJumbuk Breathe & Support Latex Pillow helps avoid overheating thanks to the outer cushioned casing, which is designed to promote airflow around the face. Aside from keeping you cool, it’s also said to prevent puffy and pressure lines forming on the face.
The pillow also has a natural latex filling to give your head and neck added cushioning, as well as keep its shape and softness for as long as possible.
“Most favourite and most expensive pillow ever purchased, but I would never go back!!! Purchased a second. The most perfect low-profile pillow, for those of us who find less thickness most comfortable,” praised one shopper.
BEST PILLOW FOR SIDE SLEEPERS
Dentons Pillows Medi Rest Therapeutic Support Pillow, $101.97 (was $169.95) at Myer
Dentons Pillows Medi Rest Therapeutic Support Pillow
What You Should Know
Unlike most pillows, this option has a dual shoulder recess to offer better support for people who sleep on their side. The contour shape similarly provides better targeted neck support and maintains spinal alignment, while the waved surface encourages airflow and helps regulate temperature.
“The Medi Rest Therapeutic Support pillow is firm without being too hard and has great support for your neck. Very comfortable,” a customer reviewed.
“This is the only pillow we have used for the last 10 years. We change our pillows every few years once it becomes soft and out of shape. Highly recommend.”
BEST CONTOURED PILLOW
Dentons Pillows Contoured Support Pillow, $84.98 (down from $159.95) at Myer
Dentons Pillows Contoured Support Pillow
What You Should Know
Another side sleeper-friendly pillow is this Contour Support Pillow, also from Dentons Pillows. It offers dual height neck support, which can be adjusted depending on whether you place your head on the edge of the front or back of the pillow.
“Finally, we have perfect pillows! Very happy with the flexibility of the two profiles, and the comfort factor – and based on previous experience, they last and last,” a shopper posted.
BEST COOLING PILLOW
Emma Cloud Hybrid Pillow, $278 at Emma Sleep
Emma Cloud Hybrid Pillow
What You Need To Know
Good breathability is a must-have feature when buying a pillow, especially if you’re looking for something to keep you cool at night. That’s why the Emma Cloud Hybrid pillow is made with 100 per cent cotton in both the filling and cover. The inside also contains breathable microfibres to help promote airflow, plus a memory foam core for support.
“I had tried (and ditched) a few others before trying the Emma Cloud and damn if I didn’t find my unicorn! My head and neck feel supported by the memory foam insert and the soft outer filling puts in me the ‘sink into bed and into restful sleep’ space,” a customer posted on Product Review.
BEST VALUE PILLOW
Anko Memory Foam Pillow with Bamboo Blend Cover, $19 at Target Australia
What You Need To Know
Target offers a wide range of everyday pillows for excellent budget-friendly prices, such as this memory foam option in a two pack for less than $20. Perfect if you need to stock up on pillows for the family or guest room and you’re after a standard size memory foam pillow that offers moulded comfort without breaking the bank. Each pillow also comes with a removable and washable cover in soft cooling bamboo cotton for extra comfort, breathability and hygiene.
BEST NURSING PILLOW
My Brest Friend Deluxe Feeding Pillow, $109.99 at Baby Bunting
What You Need To Know
Need help with feeding and holding your little one? My Brest Friend’s Deluxe Feeding Pillow wraps around the body to support you and your baby. There’s a back rest to help you avoid getting a sore back and neck while nursing, plus arm and elbow rests to minimise shoulder pains.
The nursing pillow additionally features a firm and flat cushion to keep the bub in place, along with an adjustable silent-release strap and a convenient pocket to store a bottle, burp cloth, phone and other nursing accessories.
This feeding pillow is available a variety of colours, such as Soft Rose and Heather Grey.
“A must have item I never knew I needed until I had it! I love that it’s quite firm so baby lays at the perfect level for feeding and even has little head rests!” a happy parent reviewed.
“I prefer over traditional pillow as it offers back support for mum but also keeps baby from sinking in like they would with traditional pillow. Easy removable cover too, perfect for baby spit ups etc.”
THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING A PILLOW
There are a few factors to think about when choosing the right pillow for you – including the type of pillow you prefer and your usual sleeping position.
PILLOW TYPES
• Down pillows: Typically seen as the softest and most luxurious types of pillows, down pillows are made from the inner layer of feathers from ducks and geese. These are very plush, lightweight and durable. But it can get warm during the night.
• Feather pillows: Often filled with goose and duck feathers, feather pillows are lightweight and retain their shape well. On the downside, this type of pillow is hard to clean, needs to be fluffed regularly and not ideal for warm sleepers since they’re good at retaining heat.
• Cotton pillows: These are great at regulating temperature, so you won’t get too hot. But while they’re easy to maintain, they need to be cleaned fairly regularly.
• Latex pillows: These are breathable, durable and offer a good balance between soft and firm. But these may have a strong smell or irritate those with a latex allergy.
• Wool pillows: Wool is naturally hypo-allergenic and offers great breathability, which can help circulate air around your face and keep you cool.
• Memory foam pillows: Memory foam or foam pillows in general adapt to the contours of your head, neck and shoulders. But keep in mind they’re designed to maintain the shape, rather than fix bad posture. Not to mention, a memory foam pillow can also be warm to sleep on.
• Gel pillows: If you're a hot sleeper, this type of pillow is perfect for you. Gel pillows are hypo-allergenic and contain cooling properties that prevent you from overheating, which is why they're best for hot sleepers as well as those who prefer a firmer pillow feel. These are often mixed with other types of materials.
• European pillows: Although not necessarily a pillow you'd sleep on, a European pillow not only serves as decoration but it's actually a great addition to your bed spread for extra comfort and cushioning when sitting up in bed. You could even use it as cushioning for your joints when lounging around too!
SLEEPING POSITIONS
Choosing the right pillow helps maintain correct spinal alignment as well as reduce discomfort and minimise tossing and turning. If your pillow feels too high or low, it can strain your neck and other muscles as well as cause neck and back pain - that's why it's important to consider a pillow that suits your sleep position.
To kick off your search, here are some tips on what to look for. Don’t forget that the best pillow is ultimately a matter of individual preference, so take into account what’s previously worked for you.
• Back sleepers: An ideal pillow for a back sleeper has medium-firm or firm support and a medium loft. It’s a good idea to opt for a contour or curved pillow that can mould to your body, helping keep your head and neck aligned.
• Side sleepers: Those who sleep on their side may be likely to benefit from a firm pillow with a high profile. A thicker pillow will help reduce the space between your neck and mattress, and keep your spine in a neutral position. The wedge on a contour pillow is another way to fill the space.
• Stomach sleepers: If you're a stomach sleeper, a soft, thin and low profile is ideal.
HOW WE CHOOSE PRODUCTS
Our team of experienced writers spend hours researching products to include in articles. We find out what factors make a good product by talking to experts, reviewing test results and analysing thousands of customer reviews.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT IS THE SIZING DIFFERENCE BETWEEN STANDARD, QUEEN, AND KING-SIZE PILLOWS?
Aside from firmness and height levels, finding the right bed pillow also means choosing the right size pillow. We’ve listed the standard measurements below, but keep in mind that sizing can differ between brands and even countries. For example, a standard pillow from Eva is 38cm x 56cm while Tontine is more generously sized at 47cm x 73cm.
• Standard pillow size: 38cm x 56cm
• Queen pillow size: 51 x 76 cm
• King pillow size: 51cm x 92 cm
• Body pillow size: 135cn x 48cm
WHEN SHOULD YOU REPLACE YOUR PILLOW?
Experts generally recommend replacing pillows every one or two years to make sure what your sleeping on is still clean and supportive. Certain brands, such as Tontine, even have a date stamp on the pillow to let you know when it should be replaced.
There are also certain telltale signs that suggest you need to change your pillow, including:
• Regularly waking up with neck and back pain.
• Regularly waking up with allergy symptoms, such as water eyes, itchy nose or sneezing.
• Discolouration.
• Pillow is saggy, lumpy, misshapen or too flat.
• Pillow has a bad smell.
• Pillow needs to be constantly fluffed.
WHEN SHOULD YOU WASH YOUR PILLOW?
It’s important to clean your actual pillow (i.e. not just the pillow case) every four to six months to minimise the amount of contact between you and all the drool, sweat, dead skin, dust mites and fungi that inevitably build up.
But check the manufacturer’s instructions to make sure you’re cleaning the pillow correctly. Not all pillows can be placed in the washing machine and may need to be refreshed with a damp cloth, handwashed or dry cleaned instead.
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Dreaming of more bedding guides? Check out our roundups of the best mattresses, the best mattress toppers, and the best bamboo sheets for a good night’s sleep.
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