The Best Pillows UK Sleepers Can Get (Reviewed & Compared)

Finding a Pillow in the Competitive UK Market Is No Longer an Issue

May 17, 2022

Buying the right pillow is not an easy decision, which is why our team has once again taken it upon ourselves to make things easier for you. We’ve tested the best pillows UK consumers love and ranked them according to comfort, price, buying perks, and longevity to determine just how high quality they are.

Hopefully, our top 12 list will help you narrow down your choice and find a pillow for the perfect night’s sleep.

Our buyer’s guide is here to give you more confidence in making the right choice and show you what you need to look for to buy the best pillow for your needs. 

The 12 Best Pillows to Buy in the UK

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Company
Features
Overall Score
Best Pillows UK - Brook and Wilde
Most Effective Temperature Regulation
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    Very comfy

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    Hollow fibre pockets

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    Easy-to-wash cover

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    Excellent temperature regulation

Panda London Review
Best Memory Foam Pillow
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    Soft bamboo cover

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    Perfect neck and shoulder support

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    Antibacterial

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    Excellent temperature regulation

Groove Logo
Best for Side Sleepers
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    Conforms to body contours

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    Relieves neck pain

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    Over 4,000 positive reviews on official website

Best Pillows UK - Eve
Best Pillow for Back Sleepers
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    Unique shape

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    All positions

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    Two-week trial

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    3-year guarantee

Best Pillows UK - Rem-Fit
Best Pillow for Neck Pain
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    Excellent neck support

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    Naturally cooling

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    Pocket sprung

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    5-year guarantee

Best Pillows UK - Otty
Best Pillow for Shoulder Pain
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    Good support for back and side sleepers

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    Hypoallergenic

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    Great temperature regulation

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    1-year guarantee

Best Pillows UK - Tempur
Best Travel Pillow
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    Ergonomic design for natural spine alignment

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    Luxury cotton pillow covers

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    Available in 3 sizes

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    3-year guarantee

Best Pillows UK - Simba
Most Adjustable Firmness/Height
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    Nanotube technology

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    Cooling effects

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    Hypoallergenic

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    3-year guarantee

Best Pillows UK - Silentnight
Best Firm Pillow
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    Better breathability and airflow

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    Hypoallergenic

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    UK-made

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    2-year guarantee

Best Pillows UK - Soak and Sleep
Best Down Pillow
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    Different firmness options

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    80% goose down

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    Anti-allergen

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    5-year guarantee

Best Pillows UK - Emma
Best Orthopedic Pillow
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    Adjustable layers

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    Supportive foam

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    Breathable cover

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    Money-back guarantee

Best Pillows UK - Woolroom
Best Wool Pillow
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    Completely machine washable

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    Adjustable firmness

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    Hand-crafted

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    Farm traceability

The 12 Top Pillow Reviews in the UK

Brook and Wilde Everdene Cooling Pillow Review

Best Pillows UK - Brook and Wilde Pillow Review
  • Cooling pillow

  • Free delivery

  • Price: £98

PROS :
  • Enough support

  • Good cooling properties

  • Easy-to-wash cover

CONS :
  • Delayed delivery is possible

The Brook and Wilde Everdene Pillow is exactly what you want if you get too hot or too cold during the night. Even just the surface cover will regulate your temperature properly and keep you just right, as it’s made of 100% Egyptian cotton.

When it comes to the inner chambers of the pillow, they’re filled with hollow fibre pockets. This means that airflow is maximised through the night, and you don’t have to worry about waking up in a sweat or chilled. This places the Everdene among the top-rated pillows in the UK for temperature regulation.

The cover comes with a zipper, allowing you to easily pop it off and clean it whenever you need. This is a standard-size pillow, meaning that it will easily fit on your bed and in any covers sized 50 x 70 cm.

Customer’s opinions on the brand are somewhat mixed, with the majority rating it as excellent. Even those who gave the company less than five stars said the products are high quality, but delivery delays posed a problem to them. However, quite a few verified customers said they simply contacted the pillow company and had their order at their doorstep shortly after.

Best Soft Mattresses UK - Brook and Wilde Review Code : WILDER55
  • 55% Off Everything

  • Valid from 18.10.22 to 31.10.22

Panda Luxury Memory Foam Bamboo Pillow Review

Best Pillows UK - Panda Pillow Review
  • Bamboo and memory foam pillow

  • 30-night trial

  • 10-year guarantee

  • Price: £44.95

Rating 9.8

Get the Best Deal
PROS :
  • Great customer service

  • Good for neck support

  • Soft bamboo cover

CONS :
  • Some pillows may come with small dents

Those who love the environment are going to adore this comfy bamboo pillow. The inside is made of Visco memory foam. We found it gives you optimal support during the night, which makes this one of the best pillows for neck pain you can buy. When it comes to the cover, you can forget about cotton and fall in love with this bamboo alternative as soon as you set your head down for the night.

Because bamboo grows faster than cotton, it’s one of the best sustainable resources out there. Furthermore, you need 70% less water to make it grow. Another benefit is that bamboo is antibacterial and hypoallergenic, making this pillow suitable for anyone with mite allergies, sensitive skin, or eczema.

The bamboo cover is also responsible for maximising airflow, allowing you to stay cool despite the natural tendency of memory foam to get hot. The three-layer construction makes the pillow comfy and soft to the touch, while still providing the support you need during the night thanks to the firm core.

After testing the Panda pillow, we have to agree with most customers who not only expressed love for the aesthetics of the pillow, but they also noted how comfortable and supportive it was. In fact, according to numerous bamboo pillow reviews, most said their neck pain completely disappeared. They also praised the company and said it was very accommodating to their wishes and needs. The only problem was that some customers received pillows with small dents in the memory foam. The company reaches out and actively tries to fix this issue when it comes up.

Panda Pillow

The Original Groove® Pillow

Groove Pillow Review
  • Memory foam pillow

  • 100-night trial

  • Price: £44.95

Rating 9.9

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PROS :
  • Conforms to body contours

  • Relieves neck pain

  • Over 4,000 positive reviews on official website

CONS :
  • Not suitable for stomach sleepers

The first thing we noticed about the Original Groove when we tested it was definitely its peculiar design. The shape of the pillow is meant to accommodate as many back and side sleepers as possible.

Firstly, there’s the central dip, which is suitable for back sleepers. The lowered height of the pillow in the middle section means the neck is fully embraced and properly supported, preventing soreness and excessive pressure. Another significant advantage of this characteristic is that it helps reduce snoring because your airways aren’t so obstructed.

The pillow also boasts a lateral raise. This feature is meant to provide sufficient support and correct your posture when you’re sleeping on your side.

The core of the Original Groove is made of bamboo charcoal memory foam—a comfortable, breathable, germ-resistant material which conforms to your body’s contours. On both sides of this layer, there is a protective thermogenic layer that maintains pleasant sleeping temperature and blocks dust from reaching the core.

Although the pillow itself can’t be washed, the White Scuba protector has a zipper, so you can easily remove it and toss it in the washing machine. 

Finally, we love the fact that the brand shows a great amount of eco-awareness as well. Not only is the pillow itself free of harmful chemicals and recyclable, but it was delivered to us in recycled carton packaging.

The Original Groove Pillow

Eve Sleep Microfibre Pillow Review

Best Pillows UK - Eve Sleep Pillow Review
  • Microfibre pillow

  • 14-night trial

  • 3-year guarantee

  • Free delivery

  • No-hassle returns

  • Price: £39

Rating 9.9

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PROS :
  • Fluffy and supportive at the same time

  • Washable cover

  • Suitable for front, back, and side sleepers

CONS :
  • Kind of bulky

What sets the Eve Sleep Microfibre Pillow apart from the rest is the unique balance between the soft filling on the outside and somewhat firm filling in the middle. The pillow gives you gentle head and neck support, too.

This pillow will give you the support you need, while also being more plush than firm. It’s square and can be positioned to accommodate any sleeping style. What makes this the perfect side sleeper pillow is the boxier edge. There’s also a tapered edge for back sleepers. Active sleepers may benefit from it, due to the pillow’s unique shape.

The Eve Sleep Microfibre Pillow consists of a 100% hollow fibre central chamber and outer chambers filled with 100% microfibre. Furthermore, a 100% cotton cover keeps the microfibre kept in place thanks to its high thread count. The pillow also features mesh panels, which prevent the build-up of mites and improve breathability. 

Customers seem to love this pillow, as the verified reviews are very positive. Some have gone from using two pillows to just this one while others never thought they could stop experiencing neck pain as they sleep. What almost every customer noted was the amazing value for the money, making this one of the best cheap pillows in the UK.

It’s a standard size of 46 x 67 centimetres and fits perfectly into a 50 x 75 cm pillowcase. To take care of the pillow, simply pop it in the washing machine at 40° and shake and plump it every morning to keep its freshness.

REM-Fit Hybrid Pocket Sprung Pillow Review

Best Pillows UK - Rem-Fit Pillow Review
  • Hybrid pocket sprung

  • 100-night trial period

  • 5-year guarantee

  • Free next-day delivery

  • Price: £79

Rating 9.8

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PROS :
  • Suitable for all sleeping positions

  • Cooling effects

  • Extra support with springs

CONS :
  • Not machine-washable

REM-Fit always strives to find new and better sleeping solutions, and this hybrid pocket-sprung pillow is a testimony to that. The pillow is made up of 60 foam-encased pocket springs that change the shape of the pillow depending on your weight and movement.

These adjustment properties mean you’ll get the support you need, regardless of what position you sleep in. On top of that, it makes for a great neck support pillow as it maintains your spinal alignment.

The outside of the pillow is covered with pure cotton, making it more comfortable and increasing its breathability. Cotton is naturally cool, so you’ll find this pillow comfy even on warm nights. The pillow also has 9 litres of air cushioning inside, so you’ll never have to worry about feeling hot during the night.

Some people were concerned with how breathable the pillow actually is since it has springs inside. The way it works is that air flows freely through the pillow while the springs expand and compress. Customers are generally satisfied with the pillow, with most of them saying it’s good value for the money and that they loved the cooling effects.

This pillow company also has a range of other pillows you can try out, including cool gel and snow pillows, which are perfect for hot sleepers.

The care instructions are pretty straightforward, as you only need to use a sponge to clean this pillow. To keep it fresh and ensure it lasts you a while, don’t iron, bleach, or dry-clean the pillow.

OTTY Deluxe Pillow Review

Best Pillows UK - Otty Pillow Review
  • Memory foam pillow

  • 14-day trial

  • Free standard delivery

  • 1-year guarantee

  • Price: £54.99

Rating 9.9

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PROS :
  • Great for sleeping on your side

  • Excellent temperature regulation

  • Durable memory foam

CONS :
  • Might be too firm for some sleepers

This OTTY pillow is just as deluxe as its name says. With the combination of cool blue gel and memory foam, there’s no way you won’t feel cool during the night. Because the memory foam conforms to the shape of your body, you’ll get optimal support, regardless of what position you sleep in.

If you sleep in more than one position, you might worry that your memory foam pillow will quickly lose shape. This simply isn’t the case when it comes to the best memory foam pillow in the UK. When you move, the pressure is released from the pillow, allowing it to revert to its original shape. You won’t need to plump it to keep it fresh – it does so by itself.

Well aware that memory foam tends to get too hot, OTTY added its cool blue gel to the mix. As far as the cover is concerned, you can simply pop it off and put it in the washing machine to keep your pillow clean. 

Because the depth of the pillow is 10 cm, it’s suitable for front, side, and back sleepers. Your spine will always be aligned with your neck without straining it.

Customers are very impressed with the aesthetics and feel of the pillow, although some note that it might be too futuristic for their bedrooms. Though some noted the pillow was too firm for their taste, others named it one of the best pillows for side sleepers.

TEMPUR Original Pillow Review

Best Pillows UK - Tempur Pillow Review
  • Ergonomic pillow

  • 30-night trial

  • Free delivery and returns

  • 3-year guarantee

  • Price: £99

Rating 9.7

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PROS :
  • Contours to body shape

  • Breathable and washable covers

  • Lots of positive experiences

CONS :
  • May not be as comfortable as you’d hope

The TEMPUR Original Pillow is made from TEMPUR’s own material, named after the brand. This material is similar to memory foam, but it does have some advantages. For example, the material offers more pressure relief and contours to the shape of your body perfectly, making this one of the most invaluable pillows for neck pain you’ll ever own.

What makes the pillow more breathable are its 100% cotton covers. They also make it softer and easier to wash. All you have to do is slip them off and pop them in the washing machine. TEMPUR also offers additional covers so you never have to go with anything but the original fabric.

Because people are different, this pillow has been made in three sizes and can accommodate more than one body shape. Thus, based on your needs, your neck, shoulders, and head will be aligned and receive full support. The shape of the pillow allows you to turn it around and gain optimal comfort, making it one of the top-rated pillows for stomach sleepers, side sleepers, and back sleepers.

Customers have noted that this also makes for a perfect travel pillow as it’s neither too heavy nor too large. They were also impressed with the value for money, saying that pillows of this quality and durability usually cost three times as much on the market. Since finding the perfect pillow is a very subjective thing, some customers still found the pillow uncomfortable. Thankfully, you have a 30-night trial to decide if this is the one for you.

Simba Hybrid Pillow Review

Best Pillows UK - Simba Pillow Review
  • Hybrid pillow

  • 3-year guarantee

  • Free returns for faulty goods

  • Price: £99

Rating 9.8

Get the Best Deal
PROS :
  • Adjustable firmness and height

  • Advanced technology

  • Hypoallergenic

CONS :
  • Cubes need additional distribution to avoid bumpiness

Simba’s Hybrid Pillow is one of the market’s top-rated pillows simply because you can adjust the height and firmness to your liking. This is possible due to their nanotube technology. Hundreds of nanotubes come with each pillow, allowing you to add or remove them.

This in no way affects the airflow and breathability. In fact, the pillow comes with a cooling effect. The temperature regulation is possible not only thanks to the air flowing freely through the pillow, but also thanks to Stratos technology. Stratos absorbs, releases, and stores heat when you need it. That makes the pillow perfect all year round.

Verified pillow reviews of this product say that it was better than customers expected, with quite a few noting they no longer experience back pain. Some were so impressed they came back for other Simba products, like the brand’s duvets and mattresses.

However, it should be noted that not all customers were so impressed. Some complained the pillow was lumpy or that it didn’t have enough support. A few even said the nanotubes and Stratos technology didn’t work. Customer support didn’t turn a blind eye to these claims, though, and instead made sure to resolve the issues.

SilentNight Active Geltex Pillow Review

Best Pillows UK - Silentnight Pillow Review
  • Active GelTex pillow

  • 60-night trial

  • Free delivery

  • 2-year guarantee

  • Price: £35

Rating 9.7

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PROS :
  • Perfect for side sleepers

  • Extra breathable

  • One of the best budget pillows in the UK

CONS :
  • May not be as durable as expected

This hypoallergenic SilentNight pillow is one of the best pillows for side sleepers in the UK due to its firmness. However, if you prefer sleeping on your front, you can get softer versions of the same pillow, as well as other types of pillows from the same brand.

What customers complained about the most is that the durability of the pillow isn’t as long as they had anticipated. However, you can always pay extra attention to the care instructions and contact customer service since you have a two-year guarantee.

The firmness means that this pillow has extra support. So you no longer have to worry about waking up with a stiff neck or sleeping with more than one pillow.

This is exactly what some customers noted, too. This being one of the best firm pillows out there meant they no longer had to sleep with two soft pillows just to get the right level of support when sleeping on the side.

The most interesting feature about this pillow is the Geltex. The gel is located in a ventilated comfort layer inside the pillow, thus giving it more breathability than thought possible. On top of that, you get more bounce, prolonging the life of the pillow and making it feel new for an extended period of time.

Soak and Sleep Goose Down Square Pillow Review

Best Pillows UK - Soak and Sleep Pillow Review
  • Goose down

  • 5-year guarantee

  • No-hassle return policy

  • Price: £50

Rating 9.6

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PROS :
  • Super clean standard

  • RDS certification

  • Suitable for all sleeping positions

CONS :
  • No trial period

Soak and Sleep offers a wide range of pillows, but here we tested one of the best feather pillows on the market. Made from 80% goose down, this is perfect for those looking for extra comfort during the night. The pillow is also available in a range of sizes – from standard to superking – allowing for maximum comfort.

This goose down Soak and Sleep pillow also comes in packs of two, which is great news for side sleepers looking for extra support. One of the main concerns with pillows with feather fill is that they flatten quickly. However, this one has a fill power of 600 CBI, ensuring it’ll regain its original shape after you fluff it.

We’re always concerned with how the feathers are acquired. But with Soak and Sleep, you don’t have to worry about this. Namely, this company practices responsible plucking and has an RDS certification. In other words, it places a high emphasis on the well-being of the geese. As a result, this is one of the top-rated goose down pillows on the market. 

Contrary to what you might expect, the goose down pillow offered by Soak and Sleep is super clean and breathable. Therefore, those with allergies will have no problem sleeping on it.

Though it’s made of down, the pillow is not as soft as you’d expect according to some customers. Unlike with other feather pillows, you won’t sink into it during the night, but you’ll still be comfy. Some have even noted this pillow pairs well with other Soak and Sleep pillows, which is good news for anyone who needs extra support.

Emma Pillow Review

Best Pillows UK - Emma Pillow Review
  • Memory foam pillow

  • 200-night trial

  • Money-back guarantee

  • No hassle returns

  • Price: £49

Rating 9.8

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PROS :
  • Suitable for all sleeping positions

  • Machine-washable cover

  • Highly adjustable

CONS :
  • Changing the layers can be tricky

Much like the Simba Hybrid, the Emma Pillow’s firmness and height can also be adjusted. However, this memory foam pillow review will show just how the approach is different. With the Emma, you have three layers which you can add or remove. The company promises optimal support regardless of how many layers you sleep on.

The optimal level of support is achieved thanks to the foam support inside the pillow, which stays intact no matter how many layers are added or removed. The cover of the pillow is made with special fibres that regulate temperature, thus maximising breathability and keeping you cool all night.

Because you get to customise the pillow, it’s suitable for any position. The adjustability and comfort make this the best pillow for back sleepers, front sleepers, and side sleepers. Your neck and spine will be properly aligned, regardless of how you lie down.

Emma also offers other products like mattresses, which pair perfectly with their Emma pillow. The money-back guarantee and other buying perks are applicable to these other products, too.

Customers are generally very satisfied with the Emma Pillow. They love the easy adjustability and have noted the pain in their neck and shoulders has simply vanished. Therefore, the Emma Pillow earned our title for the best pillow for shoulder pain.

Woolroom Deluxe Wool Pillow Review

Best Pillows UK - Woolroom Pillow Review
  • Wool pillow

  • A 30-day trial period

  • Price: £79.99

Rating 9.8

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PROS :
  • Natural temperature regulation

  • Strong animal welfare policy

  • Easy to clean

CONS :
  • No trial period for individual items

The woolroom pillow is truly one of the most unique pillows on the market. Sleeping on wool may sound uncomfortable and hot but is actually one of the best things you can do for yourself. First of all, wool has natural temperature regulation properties, thus cooling you down easily.

Another benefit of the wool pillow is that you’re handling one of the best washable pillows in the UK. You don’t have to worry about the pillow absorbing too much sweat, getting smelly, or losing its gusto. All you have to do is pop it in the washing machine to the wool or delicate setting and wash it at 30°. Make sure to use wool detergent and try it on a spin speed lower than 800 RPM.

What might concern some customers about woolroom is how ethical collecting wool for production actually is. The company is aware of this and wants to ensure everyone that the sheep they buy wool from are treated well and have happy lives on British farms. This is why you can easily trace the farms where the sheep come from, further demonstrating why this is one of the top-rated pillows on the market.

This company also offers wool bedding and mattresses. You’re eligible for a 30-day trial if you purchase a set (but not individual items). The company says this is because you only get to feel the full benefits of wool if you cocoon yourself in it.

How We Picked the Best Pillows for UK Shoppers

– Our Methodology –

Our table shows just how much thought we put into ranking our products. You can find the main criteria we used to rank the top 12 pillows below.

Adjustment Properties

Having an adjustable pillow means the world to anyone, especially those of us who are active sleepers. Most people don’t sleep in just one position during the night, and they definitely don’t sleep in one position for their whole lives.

Buying a new pillow every time you begin sleeping in a new position is simply a waste of money, which is why the best pillows in the UK that made our list also demonstrate high adjustability. Those that are adjustable can have layers and fillings added or removed, depending on your preference.

Hypoallergenic Properties

Choosing a pillow is tough for anyone who has allergies, but especially those who are allergic to mites. Some pillow fillings and types, like feathers, naturally build up dust and mites.

The perfect pillow is one that accommodates a person with allergies, too. We all deserve to wake up well-rested, and having a hypoallergenic pillow allows you to do just that. We’ve included only the best hypoallergenic pillows in the UK specifically so you don’t have to worry about your allergies waking you up.

Comfort Level

Your pillow is just as important as your mattress when it comes to comfort. Not only is it responsible for making you feel good and comfy, but it also has the very important job of supporting and aligning your spine, shoulders, and neck. This led us to conclude that we simply can’t leave the comfort level out of our ranking system.

The tricky part here is that not all pillows are comfortable for all sleepers. The trick is to find the perfect balance between the materials, height, and firmness to achieve the ideal level of comfort and support. That is exactly why our team of diverse sleepers tested the different pillows above in different positions.

Our best-rated pillows offer optimal support to the type of sleeper they’re meant for.

Buying Perks

Buying perks are definitely an important factor when it comes to purchasing your pillow. Since this is an important and personal decision, it’s essential to know what you’re getting and that you actually like it. This is exactly why most of the companies we included in our reviews offer a testing period. 

If these companies don’t offer trial periods for the pillows, you can test out their other products and get familiar with the brand before you make your final decision. These pillows and products may be among the top-rated pillows in the UK, but we understand that people are different and not everyone finds the same things comfortable. 

Furthermore, we strived to include companies that give you a guarantee, have free shipping, and offer discounts, all in the hopes of giving you even more value for the money you’re spending. These buying perks ensure you’ll be confident in your decision and happy with your purchase.

Price

Just because something is expensive doesn’t necessarily mean it’s high quality. That said, holding onto your money may not guarantee the quality you’re looking for, either. The trick is to find the best value pillows in the UK for the money you’re spending, which is exactly what we did.

We found different pillows with a range of prices so you can really get your money’s worth regardless of how tight your budget is.

Lifespan

Even though nobody expects their pillows to last a lifetime, it’s still a plus if they’re durable. Nobody wants to keep buying new pillows every few months. That’s why we paid special attention to the longevity of the products we reviewed.

A quality pillow should still be firm, remain supportive, and keep the same shape for at least a few years. We analyzed the materials used in the pillows on our list and did our research to determine how long they typically last and retain their original quality.

How to Choose the Best Pillows for Yourself

– Buyer’s Guide –

There are a few things that every buyer should know before making a pillow purchase. As this is a very personal decision, you need to consider your preferences. Our buyer’s guide will help you make an informed decision – you’ll learn all about pillow fillings, the different sizes available, and the most comfortable pillows according to your sleep position.

What Types of Filling Are There, and What Is the Best Filling for Pillows?

Feather

Though regular feathered pillows are considered a luxury, they aren’t as comfortable as they sound. For one, they’re a poor decision for side sleepers as they aren’t the right height to offer the kind of support side sleepers need.

Furthermore, they aren’t suitable for people who have allergies because of mite build-up. You may also find the noise distracting as they tend to ruffle during the night. The most uncomfortable thing about them is that they tend to escape the pillowcase and poke you in the face. Because regular feathers aren’t as soft as down, this may actually hurt.

Down

A pillow needs to be made up of at least 70% down feathers to be considered a down pillow. The other 30% or less is made up of regular feathers. The top-rated down pillows have an advantage over feathered pillows as they’re softer and retain heat better. This is because down is found under regular feathers and is responsible for regulating the bird’s temperature and keeping it warm.

Thanks to their durability, moldable nature, and softness, these pillows tend to be very expensive. Even if they flatten over time, a simple fluffing will bring them back to their original shape.

Those with allergies will want to avoid them, as they aren’t hypoallergenic. Those looking for maximum comfort should definitely look into pillows filled with down more closely.

Memory Foam

Because memory foam takes on the shape of the shoulders and neck, it tends to be very popular with still sleepers. Despite being able to conform to your shape, memory foam pillows offer very strong support, which those with neck pain will love.

Another thing that makes memory foam popular is the fact that it’s easy to care for and extremely durable. The height of the pillow isn’t adjustable, however, which means those sleeping on their side or back will benefit from it most.

Hot sleepers may want to choose a different material to sleep on, as memory foam has limited airflow, making it more uncomfortable during summer.

Microfibre

Microfibre is by far the cheapest type of pillow, but don’t write it off just yet – some of the best pillows in the UK are made from premium microfibre. They’re a good fit for almost anyone as they’re lightweight and available in many different heights and firmness levels.

Most microfibre pillows are hypoallergenic, too, allowing anyone with allergies to get a good night’s sleep, regardless of what position they sleep in. Some are made with cotton covers to make them more breathable and feature multiple edges for optimal comfort. Still, they aren’t as breathable as other materials and don’t have as long of a lifespan as other pillows.

When it comes to the best pillows in the UK, our reviews feature a quality microfibre pillow to give you an idea of what you’re getting for the money.

Latex

Latex is a common alternative to memory foam, but it isn’t as common on the market. These pillows are usually best for those who suffer from neck pain because of their durability and firmness. These qualities also make them very supportive.

Because latex pillows are hypoallergenic, no dust builds up in them. What makes them better than pillows filled with memory foam is their ability to regulate temperature and the fact that they’re more breathable.

What may put some people off is the distinctive scent a latex pillow carries (at least at first), as well as its weight and price.

Wool

Because wool is hypoallergenic and doesn’t allow dust to build up, it’s the perfect choice for those with stuffy noses. Though some people think wool pillows are just too hot, they’re actually perfect for regulating temperature. They have the power to keep you cool or warm when needed, and they absorb moisture at the same time.

Wool pillows are also eco-friendly, making them a great choice for those who want to help the environment while getting a good night’s sleep. Keep in mind, although these might be some of the most supportive and best firm pillows out there, they can flatten quickly.

They also tend to have a distinctive smell when you first buy them and can be too heavy for some customers’ liking.

Other

There are also other types of pillows on the market, but they’re considered niche pillows. These include buckwheat, micro-bead, and water pillows. What makes them unpopular is the specific smell they tend to have and the noisiness associated with them. This is especially true for water pillows, although they can be good pillows for neck pain relief due to their ability to perfectly conform to your body shape.

Cover Fabric

The fabric covering your pillow is just as important as the filling. You’re in near-direct contact with it for a long period of time, so it’s important that it can be cleaned easily and that it’s resistant to wear and tear. There are several popular cover fabrics for pillows:

  • Linen: Made from natural flax, this is a high-quality material that has a very unique feel. Only the best-rated pillows have linen covers. Linen is breathable and lightweight, can be cleaned easily, and is ideal for the summer months.
  • Nylon: Though it’s made to look like silk, nylon typically isn’t as breathable and absorbent. In fact, it can often cause you to sweat. However, it’s very easy to wash and dries fast.
  • Satin: This is one of the best, highest-quality fabrics you can lay your face upon. It’s soft, smooth, and good for the skin. Not only that, but it may help your hair become smoother, too.
  • Silk: This is a material similar to satin, but softer and more delicate. It needs to be handled with care and hand washed only. Though you may end up with the best-quality pillows in the UK, buying silk may end up costing you more than you intended to spend.
  • Cotton: Because it’s cool and absorbent, cotton is one of the most popular types of cover fabric. It’s also easy to wash and has different thread counts to choose from. The only downside you may experience from cotton is waking up with temporary creases on your face.
  • Bamboo: Often considered superior to cotton, bamboo fabrics make for the best soft pillows in the UK. They’re simply more breathable and comfortable due to the natural fibres, regardless of the filling. They’re also more eco-friendly and can be easily washed. However, they may flatten over time.

How to Choose Depending on Your Sleep Position

  • Front: The most important thing is for your head to be at a comfortable angle, so get a flat pillow. Microfibre is the perfect choice for you, but wool should do just fine if you prefer to have more support.
  • Back: Memory foam might be the most suitable if you sleep on your back, as it gives your neck and shoulders the support they need while still being the right height.
  • Side: The best pillow for side sleepers in the UK is a thick one – you need firm support so your spine and neck are aligned correctly. Memory foam is a good choice here, but you’ll need to make sure the height feels comfortable enough before you make your purchase. Sleeping with another pillow between your knees is also recommended because it aligns your hips and prevents lower back pain.
  • Multiple positions: Simply put, one pillow can’t always support every angle we lie in. For those who don’t have just one sleeping position, the best pillows are those of medium firmness and height. This will give you the best balance and provide comfort regardless of what position you sleep in. Another recommendation is to use two soft pillows, as this allows you to adjust them accordingly during the night and mould them to your shape.

Pillow Size Chart

  • Cot bed: 36 x 58 cm (14″ x 22″)
  • Standard: 50 x 75 cm (20″ x 30″)
  • Large Square: 65 x 65 cm (26″ x 26″)
  • Superking: 50 x 90 cm (20″ x 36″)

Wrapping Up

Hopefully, you’re now more familiar with the best pillows UK consumers should consider and why they earned their spots on our list. Remember to consider your sleep position and the potential problems you may have before making your final decision. Regardless of your budget, we’re confident you’ll be able to find the perfect pillow for your needs thanks to our comprehensive list and guide.

FAQs

What is the best pregnancy pillow?

There are plenty of different pregnancy pillows out there, and the best one for you depends on your preferences and sleeping positions. Wedge pillows are one popular option, as you can still use them after you give birth.

A total body pillow curves around the whole body and is by far the most supportive. This is especially important for pregnant women entering their third trimester. If you only need support on one side of your body, a full-length pillow may be a better option for you. Higher-quality, full-length pillows tend to easily take to your body’s shape and offer even more support.

A bean pillow is the best pillow for pregnancy for women looking to support only one part of their body. It’s very convenient for when you’re sitting or taking a nap, or if you need extra support between your knees during the night.

Finally, we have the inflatable pillow, which is the best pregnancy pillow for women who want to rest on their stomachs. No pressure will be put on your growing stomach, keeping your child safe.

What is the best pillow for neck pain?

If you’re experiencing neck pain, try using a pillow that has strong support. Feather-filled pillows are a good option because they easily mould to your shape. However, they aren’t a long-lasting solution as they tend to flatten quickly. A higher-quality feather pillow has a somewhat longer lifespan because you can fluff it.

You could also try using pillows filled with memory foam, as they should also offer the support you need. Pillows that are too stiff or too high only make neck pain worse in the morning. Horseshoe-shaped pillows are a good investment, too, as they’ll help keep your head from dropping when you’re travelling or even just relaxing in front of the TV.

What is the best pillow for side sleepers?

Side sleepers benefit most from firm pillows that offer a lot of support. Aside from that, they should pay close attention to the materials and loft. A side sleeper’s ideal pillow needs to be able to resist compression so it can easily support the neck, shoulders, and spine for a long period of time.

Another tip we can give side sleepers is to avoid pillows filled with feather and down. Though very comfortable, these pillows are soft and flatten easily. In addition, stay away from down alternatives. They’re also too soft, and you may end up sinking into the pillow instead of getting the support you need.

What are the best feather pillows to buy?

Feather-filled pillows are pretty high quality to begin with, but getting a top-notch feather pillow comes down to a few things. First of all, you need to pay attention to the filling. Is it made up of down or regular feathers, or a combination of the two? The softer the feathers are, the more comfortable you’ll be. Pillows filled with down are, therefore, the superior choice.

Another thing you should pay attention to is the fluff factor. If the bird whose down you’re sleeping on is mature, the fluff power will be higher. This also says a lot about the pillow’s durability and longevity.

The goose down pillows by Soak and Sleep and Scooms that we included on our list meet these criteria, making them some of the highest-quality feather options on the market.

What is the best pillow on the market?

Our top three picks for the best pillows on the UK market are:

  • Eve Sleep Microfibre Pillow
  • REM-Fit Hybrid Pocket Sprung Pillow
  • Soak and Sleep Goose Down Square Pillow

Sleep technology is a real thing that keeps advancing as more research is done on the best ways to improve the quality of our sleep. By carefully analyzing the market and considering all aspects which make these models more advanced, we compiled a list of the top 12 pillows on the market for 2022 – so now you won’t have to worry about sleeping on something less than perfect.