What Are The 6 Most Common Types Of Pillows In 2024?

Shopping for a pillow is no big deal, right? Just pop down to the local supermarket and pick up a pillow that feels right from the giant aisle of pillows, and you’re done. While this is a way to get a pillow fast and easy, you may want to put more thought into your pillow choice.

You might be wondering how many types of pillows are out there. It turns out you aren’t alone in wondering what pillow types you can choose from. Furniture Fair sells many comfortable pillow options, and the pillow type is just one of a few pillow options you should consider.

This article will look at the top 6 most common pillow filling types and show how the difference in the filling can affect the pillow’s comfort level, support level, quality, and longevity. If you are ready to replace that pillow you’ve had since college but don’t know which pillow style is the best purchase option, this article is for you.

Read on to learn more about the most common pillow filling materials and how they affect your sleep. After reading this article, you will be more prepared to buy the perfect pillow for your sleep setup.

Down pillows are filled with the natural fibers found underneath the feathers of ducks and geese. Think of a really soft, fluffy feather meant to insulate. Down pillows are filled with this softer feather material making for a super soft and comfy pillow.

Down pillows are durable and will last a long time, plus they are lighter weight and hold their shape well. They are not great for hot sleepers as they retain heat very easily, and some people may find out they are allergic to down.

Feather pillows use the feathers of ducks and geese in their stuffing. Feather pillows are much softer and more fluffy compared to some materials. A feather pillow will usually be a bit lighter than most pillows, and they retain their shape for much longer than most pillows.

Feather pillows are not the easiest to clean since they are made from real birds' feathers. If you don’t like your pillow getting warm, a feather pillow is also not a great idea since they retain heat. Make sure you are not allergic to feathers before purchasing a feather pillow.

Cotton is one of the most well-known pillow materials available and a classic material that has only recently been used less often thanks to the rise of synthetic pillow materials. Cotton pillows are a great natural alternative if you are allergic to down or feather pillows. 

Cotton stuffing is better at temperature regulation than some synthetic stuffing blends, but cotton pillows must also be dusted and cleaned regularly to keep them clean. Cotton pillows can also become lumpy as the pillow ages, so be sure to fluff your pillow and reshape it regularly.

Memory foam seems to be in everything nowadays, from mattresses that feature cooling memory foam to chairs, couches, and even pillows! Memory foam is more versatile for creating soft and supportive surfaces thanks to multiple density foam levels created during manufacturing.

Memory foam pillows can help provide better support for neck pain and other posture and joint issues, thanks to the way memory foam adapts to the weight of your body. A memory foam pillow may be a good option if you feel like you need more support when you sleep.

A downside of memory foam is that many memory foams can retain body heat and grow uncomfortable on hot nights. Some companies are starting to include cooling foam in their pillow designs to help counter the heat retention in foam for a cooler pillow.

Latex pillows are another innovation in the mattress and pillow world. Latex pillows use a honeycomb cell structure that provides comfort and support. Latex pillows are very durable and will last a lifetime.

A latex pillow is another pillow that will help with spine alignment and posture. Latex pillows offer cooling technology, and the latex material is also biodegradable. A latex pillow could help relieve some of these issues if you have improper spinal alignment or neck and joint pain.

Latex pillows will be one of the more pricey on the market due to their innovations and novelty. Some people can get an allergic reaction to latex foam pillows, so make sure you aren’t allergic before purchasing. Rubber pillows can also have a strong factory odor that may eventually subside but could keep you from falling asleep due to the funky smell.

The polyester pillow is the pillow that became the most popular style due to its affordability and soft fluffy feel. Polyester pillows are made with hundreds of polyester fibers, also known as poly fibers.

This is the quintessential pillow that most people are familiar with. The polyester pillow is excellent if you need that cotton pillow feel but need a cheaper option. Unlike cotton pillows, polyester pillows use synthetic fibers, which are inexpensive and make for a more affordable pillow.

Polyester pillows are great if you need a soft pillow for cheap. Due to the nature of the synthetic fibers, polyester pillows need regular fluffing and reshaping to keep them from getting lumpy. Polyester pillows are also more likely to lose shape and become flat with age.

Now that you know what types of pillows are out there, you might wonder which one is right for you. Here are a few things to remember when searching for your perfect bedroom pillow.

If you are prone to allergies, particular pillows may be better depending on your allergies. Getting tested to find out what allergies you have can go a long way in preventing a wrong purchase. You don’t want sneezing and sinus congestion keeping you from using your pillow.

If you are allergic to down or feathers, perhaps cotton, polyester, memory foam, or latex may be better for you. However, more organic materials may suit you if you have a latex allergy. Remember to keep your pillow clean to prevent allergens from sitting in your pillow fibers.

Regarding support, if you have spinal alignment issues or wake up with neck or joint pains, your pillow might need to be more supportive. Consult your doctor and find out if a firmer material such as memory foam or latex may suit you. You may also consider using a body pillow if you sleep on your side.

Alright, that’s enough pillow talk. Finding the perfect pillow may require more thought than anticipated, but with some information on what’s inside your pillow, you can find the ideal comfort and support level to help you sleep through the night.

Remember that there are six common types of pillow stuffing made from organic and synthetic materials. Remember that some pillow types may trigger allergies, and you should ensure you don’t have any reactions to the material.

Finally, don’t forget that the proper pillow support can help with joint pains and other posture issues depending on your sleep preferences. A new pillow with a mattress that supports you correctly is crucial to better mutual support and fewer aches and pains.

A new pillow could be the key to a perfectly relaxing night's sleep. If you are interested in picking up a pillow to compliment a new mattress purchase, or perhaps you need a completely new sleep setup, consider visiting the Sleep Center at Furniture Fair.

Schedule an appointment at one of our many locations in Cincinnati, Dayton, Northern Kentucky, Southern Indiana, and Louisville. Learn how our quick bedMATCH rest test can help you find the perfect mattress for your sleep needs.