18 Best Pillows for All Kinds of Sleepers
A good pillow is essential for quality sleep, comfort, support, and breathability. And we’ve found the best of the best.
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If waking up with a sore neck has taught us anything, there’s no such thing as a one-size fits all pillow.
Some prefer high and firm, while others need something low and super soft to get a decent night’s rest. There’s also hypo-allergenic pillows that can help keep your allergies at bay, memory foam pillows to maintain good sleeping posture, and plenty more options to choose from.
Our favourite is the Emma Diamond Pillow which news.com.au Deputy Editor Melody Teh tried for herself. A few nights sleeping on this gave her “some of my best sleeps in recent memory” thanks to its customisable firmness and temperature regulation. She went as far as calling it “the perfect pillow for anybody and everybody,” and it’s currently selling for 50 per cent off.
There’s also the Ecosa Pillow, which is designed with removable memory foam pieces, allowing you to adjust the height and firmness for a personalised sleep experience. Or you can opt for the Macoda Pillow with its unique structure that helps circulate air so you’re always sleeping on the cool side.
Read on to learn more about all the best pillows on the market that’ll help you get your 40 winks.
OUR TOP PICKS
Best pillows
Emma Diamond Pillow, $129 (down from $258) at Emma Sleep
Tried and Tested by Melody Teh, news.com.au checkout Deputy Editor
I wasn’t expecting to like the Emma Diamond Pillow as much as I do. Although my initial impression was that the pillow would be too firm to be comfortable, I was proven wrong. While the pillow is firmer than say its feathered and synthetic counterparts, it’s supportive to sleep on and doesn’t sacrifice comfort, especially if you use the ‘soft side’. Plus, you can mix and match the three layers of foam to create the perfect pillow for your preferences.
But what really sets the Emma Diamond Pillow apart from other pillows, including the others in the Emma range, is its temperature regulation. We all know you sleep better when it’s not too hot or too cold and having used this pillow through some super humid nights, the pillow keeps you cool and therefore relaxed while sleeping. I’ve had some of my best sleeps in recent memory since switching to this pillow.
If you’re a hot sleeper or can never find the right pillow, then the Emma Diamond Pillow is for you. With its cooling features and adjustable layers that can be tailored to individual sleeping styles, I’m going to go so far as to say it’s the perfect pillow for anybody and everybody.
Read her full review here.
Ecosa Pillow, $120 (down from $150) at Ecosa
What You Need To Know
The Ecosa Pillow is an ergonomically designed memory foam pillow that provides optimal spinal support and comfort.
Its adjustable height feature allows users to customise their sleep experience by adding or removing memory foam pads. Designed with breathable materials, it also helps regulate temperature for a cooler sleep. It’s also an excellent choice for side and back sleepers, offering both support and comfort throughout the night.
“This pillow is not too hard but just firm enough. We went through so many pillows and finally my husband can sleep. He is an electrician and needs good rest, Ecosa helped us,” a reviewer praised.
“I have been using the new pillow for almost one month. My shoulder pain has gone. It is great so far,” another wrote.
Macoda Pillow
What You Need To Know
This pillow is the only pillow highly regarded sleeping brand Macoda sells. They have put all their energy into this memory foam cooling pillow to create “the perfect balance between comfort and support.”
Its open structure and design works alongside a cooling gel glaze for greater airflow consistently throughout the night, therefore preventing heat building up so you’re always sleeping on the cool side. It’s also infused with charcoal and bamboo to further reduce heat while absorbing moisture and it sits inside a bamboo pillow cover that is soft and eco-friendly – it’s a win-win.
“It’s always hard to find the right pillow for me. I decided to give the Macoda Pillow a try and it’s the best pillow I’ve ever had,” one shopper brags.
“I’m glad I bought two of them. Not too soft, not too hard. My preference is towards the harder ones, but this pillow feels fantastic. I mostly sleep on my back for beauty reasons and occasionally sleep on the sides. I wake up without neck discomfort. Highly recommend!”
A second reviewer called it “So good my wife stole it and gave me her shabby foam pillow instead. I might have to buy another!”
Best memory foam pillow
Eva The Eva Pillow, $109 (down from $149) at Eva
What You Need To Know
Love an adjustable mattress? Award-winning bed-in-a-box brand Eva also lets you switch up firmness levels with The Eva Pillow.
It features two adjustable firmness levels to cater to most sleeping positions, and it can be changed by removing the outer cover for a firmer feel or leaving it on for something softer. The outer edges are firmer than the middle to help support your neck as you sleep, while the memory foam is made at a density that can mould to your body and keep its 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!”
“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 nights rest with this pillow,” another agreed.
Best hypoallergenic pillow
Tontine Classic Allergy Sensitive Pillow, $24.99 (down from $55.95) at Amazon Australia
Tontine Classic Allergy Sensitive Pillow
What You Need To Know
This pillow from trusted brand Tontine has been designed to help those with allergies and has been approved by the National Asthma Council of Australia’s Sensitive Choice Program.
It features premium polyester filling and has been treated with Tontine BIOGUARD to inhibit the growth of common allergy triggers, such as mould, bacteria and dust mites. It’s also covered with soft and breathable natural cotton 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 pillows
Origin Coolmax Latex Pillow, $125.30 (down from $179) at Origin Mattress
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, the latex foam moulds to the shape of your head and can typically hold its shape for years. They also contain hypoallergenic 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 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.
Peace Lily Solid Latex Pillow, $119 at Peace Lily
Peace Lily Solid Latex Pillow
What You Should Know
The Peace Lily Solid Latex Pillow ticks all the boxes for comfort, support and materials.
It is made from natural and sustainably sourced latex from rubber trees and is surrounded by an organic cotton pillow cover that is non-toxic and OEKO-TEX certified. This means it has been officially tested by an independent body and proven to not contain substances that are deemed harmful to humans.
It’s also one of the longest sized standard pillows on the market and is available in either a plush pillow that feels soft yet supportive or the firm pillow which can aid in neck stability and body alignment.
“Absolute best pillow I have ever had,” raves one five-star reviewer, who adds “it feels like you are sleeping on a cloud! Will never go back to another one and definitely worth the price!”
A second shopper bought this pillow alongside the Peace Lily Latex Mattress and called the combination the “best thing I have ever done for a good night’s sleep”
Our Shopping Writer Rosalyn Fannin got to try the Peace Lily Latex Mattress for herself. You can read her review here.
Best feather and down pillow
Greenfirst 90/10 Goose Down Pillow, $599 at Pillow Talk
Greenfirst 90/10 Goose Down Pillow
What You Should Know
Resting your weary head on the Greenfirst 90/10 Goose Down Pillow is possibly the closet you’ll come to sleeping on a cloud.
Designed for both back and side sleepers, this luxury pillow uses goose down and feathers and a down proof cotton cover that is temperature regulating, OEKO-TEX certified and has “supreme loft.” It’s also a hygienic option thanks to its natural anti-dust mite treatment specifically designed for the brand.
“Unlike feather pillows this down pillow is silent, comfortable and shape hugging for your head and neck,” one shopper raves. Another agreed, saying “I wouldn’t sleep on anything but goose down,” calling it “soft, fluffy, and promises a good night.”
Best soft pillow
DreamRemedy Latex Classic Pillow, $70 (down from $159.95) at Myer
What You Should Know
The DreamRemedy Latex Classic Pillow is a high-quality natural latex pillow designed for durability, breathability, and support. It maintains its shape over time, offering consistent comfort while naturally resisting bacteria, mould, and dust mites. The pillow also comes with a removable, machine-washable cotton cover for easy maintenance.
“They provide good support and allow me to have a beautiful sleep every night. I would not be without mine,” raves one Myer shopper.
“I highly recommend this pillow to everyone if you want to get a good nights sleep. Quality, durability, luxurious feel second to none.”
Best customisable pillows
Downia Soft Side Up White Duck Down & Feather Pillow, $99.99 (down from $119.95) at Temple & Webster
Soft Side Up White Duck Down & Feather Pillow
What You Need To Know
The Downia Soft Side Up White Duck Down Feather Pillow is a dual-sided design that offers the best of both worlds. One side features a soft, down-rich layer for a plush, cloudlike feel, while the other provides firmer support with a feather blend. Made with a 100 per cent cotton cover, the pillow is both breathable and durable.
“I love this pillow, it’s super soft and comfy. Looks great on the bed as it holds a fuller shape and provides great head and neck support,” a five-star reviewer wrote.
“Best pillow, firm and gentle at the same time without sinking in. Superb quality, I wish I’d found this pillow earlier!”
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 the other is firmer.
“I was a bit sceptical 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, moulding 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 pillow for neck pain
Emma Foam Pillow, $199 at Emma Sleep
Emma Foam Pillow
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 the ultimate support and comfort.
Best pillow for stomach sleepers and back sleepers
MiniJumbuk Breathe and Support Pillow, $174.99 (down from $249.99) at Adairs
MiniJumbuk Breathe & Support Latex Pillow
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, $179.95 at Myer
Dentons Pillows Medi Rest Therapeutic Support Pillow
What You Should Know
Unlike most pillows, this one 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 said.
“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 travel pillow
Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Pillow, $39.99 (down from $65.99) at Amazon Australia
Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Pillow
Tried and Tested by Stephanie Yip, eCommerce Travel Writer
Loved by travel TikTokers, I simply couldn’t say no to putting the Cabeau to the test and recently took it with me on an eight-hour night-flight to Malaysia.
The first thing I noticed is that it’s quite chunky, with high sides and a squishy memory foam filling to support the neck and shoulders. Being a petite person, popping it on felt akin to a neck brace forcing my head upright.
However, it didn’t take long for the memory foam to soften and support my chin and neck, and for me to fall asleep as I flew across the ocean – something other pillows in my past haven’t come close to.
On top of how comfortable and soft it is, what stands out is that there’s no need to adjust, wrap or blow it up. You simply pull it out of the bag and pop it around your neck like a traditional travel pillow. I also love how easy it is to “stuff” into the included carry bag.
What I’m not a fan of is that it isn’t the best for petite-sized people like me. I eventually got used to bulk around my neck, but I do feel that slightly shorter sides would have been a better fit.
The strap at the back is designed to wrap around the headrest. For this to work properly, your head should sit against the seat’s headrest, but at 5’1, my head only barely reaches it. But for those tall enough it is a nice perk.
Best body pillow
Dream Science Adjustable Memory Foam Body Pillow, $62.95 (down from $89.95) at Pillow Talk
Dream Science Adjustable Memory Foam Body Pillow
What You Need To Know
Body pillows are great to sleep with during pregnancy or just as a something super soft and snugly to cuddle up to when you nod off in the evening. This one from Dream Science is one of the best thanks to its adjustability.
It predominantly uses shredded memory foam chips, but an additional 350g bag of extra polyester fill is included to adjust to your comfort level and make it thicker and more plush. It also comes with a bamboo blend cover to make it that extra bit softer.
Averaging a 4.8-star rating at Pillow Talk, one of the five-star reviews reads “It’s incredibly supportive and ideal for side sleeping. I love that you can adjust the filling to suit your comfort — plus, it holds its shape really well and fits most [body] pillowcases. Definitely worth the investment. I’m super happy with it!”
Another added “This body pillow is amazing. No more tossing and turning and so far no more back pain. So impressed my daughter has one also.”
Best nursing pillow
My Brest Friend Deluxe Feeding Pillow, $89.99 (down from $109.99) at Amazon Australia
My Brest Friend Deluxe Feeding Pillow
What You Need To Know
Need help with feeding and holding your little one? The My Brest Friend’s Deluxe Feeding Pillow wraps around your body to support you and your baby. There’s a backrest to help you avoid getting a sore back and neck, plus arm and elbow rests to minimise shoulder pains.
This 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 [it] over traditional pillows 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.”
Best value pillow
Anko Memory Foam Pillow with Bamboo Blend Cover, $20 at Target
Anko Memory Foam Pillow with Bamboo Blend Cover
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 just $20.
It’s a perfect option if you need to stock up on pillows for the guest room or if 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.
How we choose our 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.
What to consider before buying a pillow
Sleeping position: Not all pillows are made for every type of sleeper and some are best used by those with specific sleeping styles. A back sleeper should opt for a firmer pillow that can mould to their body. A stomach sleeper may sleep better on a soft and thin pillow and side sleepers may benefit from firm and high profile pillows that keep the head and spine in a neutral position.
Firmness: Aside from how you sleep, what you find most comfortable is also important. Softer pillows are typically more comfortable and cushioning whereas firmer pillows often provide greater support throughout the night so you don’t wake up sore and sorry.
Material: Pillows are made from a variety of fillings to tackle different support needs and comfort levels. You can choose from memory foam, latex, down and feather, hypoallergenic and cooling, among many others.
Trial and warranty: Many of the larger brands will offer a sleep trial to prove that their product is worth the splurge. This can be between 30 to 150 days. Many also have several year warranties. Pillows with larger sleep trial periods and warranties typically cost more, but are usually made with more premium materials.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF PILLOWS?
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 or 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, they can be hard to clean, need to be fluffed regularly and are 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. They also have resistance against mould, mildew and mites, and are a decent option for hot sleepers. However they may have a strong smell or irritate those with a latex allergy.
Wool pillows: Wool is naturally hypoallergenic and offers great breathability, which can help circulate air around your face and keep you cool.
Memory foam pillows: Memory foam adapts 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. Memory foam can also be warm to sleep on.
Gel pillows: Hypoallergenic and perfect for hot sleepers and those who prefer a firm feel, gel pillows are memory foam pillows infused with cooling gel to prevent you from overheating.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SOLID MEMORY FOAM AND SHREDDED MEMORY FOAM PILLOWS?
The main differences between shredded and solid memory foam include their structure, softness and firmness, supportiveness and adjustability.
A solid memory foam pillow is made from one single piece of memory foam that contours to your neck and head. It is designed to be maintain its firmness and shape over time and is ideal for those who need some added neck support in their sleep. However, they are more likely to retain heat, can’t be adjusted and may feel a bit too firm for those who prefer a softer pillow.
On the other hand, shredded memory foam pillows are made with smaller pieces of memory foam along with bamboo and microfibre fill. They are more manoeuverable, mouldable and adjustable and can be more breathable, so you’ll always sleep on the cool side of the pillow. The downside is that they can easily flatten and feel uneven after long term use. They’ll also need regular refluffing.
HOW DO I CHOOSE THE RIGHT PILLOW FOR MY SLEEPING POSITION?
Choosing the right pillow can help 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 and literally be a pain in the neck.
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 will likely 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 head, shoulders and spine in a neutral position. The wedge on a contour pillow is another way to fill the space.
- Front sleepers: If you sleep on your stomach, a soft, thin and low profile pillow is ideal as it can lessen pressure on your spine and neck.
WHAT IS THE SIZING DIFFERENCE BETWEEN STANDARD, QUEEN, AND KING-SIZE PILLOWS?
Aside from firmness and height levels, finding the right pillow also means choosing the right size. 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 you’re sleeping on is still clean and supportive and hasn’t endured too much wear and tear. 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 refluffed
WHEN SHOULD YOU WASH YOUR PILLOW?
It’s important to clean your actual pillow (and 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 builds up.
Always 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, hand washed or dry cleaned instead.
More Coverage
More pillow ocverage:
- Best hypo-allergenic pillows
- Best memory foam pillows
- Best cooling pillows
- Best pillows for side sleepers
- Best pregnancy pillows
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