11 Best Pillows: Tested For Side, Back, and Stomach Sleepers (2026)

As a veteranmattress tester andcertified sleep science coach, I've learned something surprising from my time in the industry: Your pillow can make or break your overallmattress experience.

In fact, I would go so far as to say that if you're having sleep issues, before replacing your mattress, you should first evaluate your pillow.

Many contemporary pillows out there boast all sorts of features, from cooling fabrics to neck support.

Unfortunately, not all of these claims turn out to be accurate, which is why we test each pillow in our own beds, in our own homes, for ideally a week but at minimum three days.

I've spent years researching different body types, sleeping positions, physical conditions, and pain points that affect sleepers, so this guide has been years in the making.

It's constantly evolving as we strive to keep up with the industry's latest, so if there's a brand you don't see that's worth a shout, let me know atjulia_forbes@wired.com.

But here are the ones we've tested and would choose time and time again.

Updated March 2026: We've added the Pluto Pillow as a new pick and pillows from Marshmalloo, Snorinator, Sijo, and Saatva as honorable mentions.

We've also ensured that links and prices are up to date.

Purple's lofty Freeform pillow is incredibly bouncy and supportive, and feels unlike any other I've tried thanks to the honeycomb-shaped gel layer that sits between the outer shell and the core.

It's made with a mixed fill of high-density memory foam and polyester fill that gives it a malleable center, and it's adjustable, allowing you to remove some of the fill to make it a little less lofty—which you might want, since this pillow comes stuffed to the brim!

But you can alsobuy more fill ($29)if you wish it to be loftier.

The pillow actually comes with a little lumbar pillowcase, so you can repurpose the fill you remove into an extra pillow around the house.

I thought this pillow would be seen as weird when I tested it with my panel, especially the gridlike gel layer, but the Freeform was the favorite of the night.

We also liked the similarPurple Harmony ($209), which has the same gel grid layer with a Talalay latex core.

(It’s nonadjustable, but you can choose from three different lofts.) All of my testers loved how supportive and bouncy it was, and one commented how she likes the gel layer texture, since it reminds her of quilted bedding she used as a child.

The gel grid layer and cooling cover also provide a cooling experience, keeping Purple's pillows nice and chilly as you sleep.

The only downside of the pillow was the off-gassing scent, which this model still had after a week of being unboxed.

It's been a few more weeks since then, and I haven't noticed the gassing scent any longer.

Amazon lists the king size as frequently returned, likely because people may not realizethe different sizes pillows can be.

The standard size doesn't have the same return issues.

The base price on this pillow recently went up, likely due to tariffs, but it's often on sale.

Coop's Cool+ Adjustable Pillow comes in three different shapes, and the cutout version has been my go-to pillow for months now.

It's designed to be cooling and has kept my head nice and chilly through two Southern California summers, but hasn't been so chilly that I can't enjoy it during the winter months.

As a side sleeper, I love the cutout shape that makes it easy to get plenty of head and neck support while keeping my shoulders on the bed—an impressive feat for my short frame.

The pillow's adjustable filling uses a blend of cooling gel and memory foam, and the cover is super chilly to the touch with a ventilated phase-change gel memory foam layer on one side to help keep heat out of your pillow.

I don't love the feel of the Cool+'s synthetic chilly cover on my face, so I always cover it with a pillowcase, but you could sleep right on the cover for the coolest experience.

Coop's pillows have two shell layers, so you can remove the outermost layer and wash it without needing to pull out all of the fill.

Coop also includes a bag of extra fill so that you can refresh your pillow, but in the year I've had it, I haven't needed to refill it yet.

The Honeydew Scrumptious is a nice, lower-loft, firmer pillow that's a great fit for back and stomach sleepers.

It's not too fluffy or high up, so it's easier to keep your spine aligned, and the firm feel is great for support too.

It's also adjustable, with a discreet zipper that lets you take out the copper-infused foam fill.

The copper-infused foam promises a cooler sleep, and though I wouldn't call it a cooling pillow by any means, it shouldn't retain heat like other foam models do.

I found it a little firm as a side sleeper, but my stomach-sleeping long-term tester has been happy with this pillow.

Honeydew overall makes pretty great pillows.

They also make the Scrumptious in a side sleeper shape, but my side-sleeper panelists and I preferred Honeydew'sEssence Side Sleeper Pillow ($130)over the Scrumptious side sleeper, since it's fluffier and has a higher loft, thanks to a fill of shredded gel foam.

Honeydew also makes theClassic Essence Pillow ($180), which has the classic shape to it but a more fluffy feel, which can be a nice choice for combination sleepers who want more fluff.

Both WIRED reviewer Nena Farrell and I have tested our fair share of Coop pillows, but the Original Crescent pillow is a side sleeper’s dream.

While a typical pillow design isn’t exactly uncomfortable for side sleepers, I love having some space for my shoulder to nestle into.

As a side sleeper, Nena really likes Coop’s Cool+ Adjustable Pillow (above), but the Original Crescent will allow combination sleepers to not feel as set in place.

True to its name, the Original Crescent has a curve to its bottom, allowing a full range of motion for flipping between sides or other sleeping positions.

The shredded memory foam and microfiber fill also cradle the head and neck to preserve cervical alignment.

The pillow is also adjustable and can be opened to add or remove fill, making it softer or firmer.

It comes with extra fill, so if I ever need a boost, I have it available.—Julia Forbes
Look, you're probably wondering why I didn't lead with a real down pillow before suggesting an alternative.

Let me explain: I think down pillows might be terrible.

Down pillows aren't nearly as supportive as other options, can't retain their shape on their own, and raise the question of ethical sourcing more than other pillow categories do.

My entire testing panel voted down pillows to be their least favorite, so I know it's not just me.

Instead, you could get a similar experience with better support and more thoughtful materials— namely, recycled water bottles.

That's right, Buffy's Cloud Pillow uses a fill made from recycled polyethylene terephthalate from plastic water bottles.

You'd never guess it's recycled, since it has such a supportive, bouncy feel that worked for a side sleeper.

(I tested the medium fill option, and you can choose the lower fill if you want a lower loft.) It has aTencel lyocellsateen shell that feels silky-soft like Buffy'sfantastic bedding.

I didn't miss down for a minute after switching from real down to this pillow.

★ A side sleeper version:WIRED reviewer Louryn Strampe loves the curve in theside-sleeper version ($59)of the Buffy Cloud Pillow.

Even while rotating a bunch in her sleep, she says she can always get comfortable.

She says it's stayed cool on 90-degree nights, too.

If you're sure you want real down, then Brooklinen's Down Pillow is the only one I'd consider out of the down pillows I've tried.

It uses Canadian down clusters and feathers, and I tested the firmest option, which is probably why I liked it more than other plush options that felt flat an hour later.

It'sDownmarkcertified, which certifies that it's authentic Canadian down, but Brooklinen does not have theResponsible Down Standardcertification, so we can't guarantee how ethical the sourcing is.

“Chaotic sleeper” can mean a lot of things.Former WIRED reviewer Eric Ravenscraftliked this pillow since it could balance his switching among being a side, back, and stomach sleeper.

My most chaotic test panelist loved this pillow since she says sometimes her pillows end up cradled in her arms, or even on top of her head, and the curved, breathable Flow Cuddle Curve pillow from Bedgear felt comfortable for her to sleep on no matter what position she was in.

The “curve” in the name is for the small curve it has to accommodate a shoulder; nothing as extreme as the Coop cutout shape above, but still a comfy addition for any side sleeper.

It has a washable, jersey cotton-feeling cover (though no cotton is used) and has air vents with breathable mesh to help it stay cool throughout the night.

Rather than typical pillow sizes, Bedgear uses a sizing system tailored to your gender, shirt size, and typical sleeping position, so be sure to check the size chart before choosing a size.

The Travelrest Nest Pillow is thebest travel pillowfor most people.

It's flat on the back and the 5-inch sides lend enough support to cradle your head, no matter how you like to sleep.

The memory foam body holds its shape for hours, and there's a hook-and-loop fastener near the chin that'll come in handy if you prefer to lean your head forward rather than back or to the side.

It also has a soft, removable, washable microfiber cover that helps you stay warm on drafty planes.

—Louryn Strampe
If the shape of this pillow doesn’t throw you off, the price will.

But let me explain!

If you frequently wake up with a stiff neck because you sleep on it wrong, Kanuda’s unique Primo Air pillow might be helpful.

It has firm contours designed to support your neck while you're lying on your back, holding your head in position.

What makes this pillow unique is that it also accommodates side sleepers, with extra contours designed to cradle the side of your face, while still nudging your head into proper alignment.

I was surprised how much I could roll over without moving the pillow and still feel supported.

However, if you don't think you can stick to sleeping on either your side or back, this might not be a great option for you.

Unlike other pillows, this one doesn't accommodate atypical sleeping positions—you won't want to clutch it in your arms or use it to support your legs, for example.—Eric Ravenscraft
Lagoon Sleep’s pillowsallow you to change their firmness and loft any time by opening up the outer cover to access an inner pouch and add or subtract fill.

Each comes with extra of the fill that's used in that specific pillow, and a drawstring bag to store it in.

You get a generous amount of fill—more than I’ve seen with other adjustable pillows.

If you choose to use all of it, the change in height and loft is dramatic.

My favorite in Lagoon’s lineup is the medium-soft Fox.

The Fox’s shredded memory foam fill contours around my head and neck to help with cervical alignment.

I’ve taken some fill out of my Fox pillow to achieve a lower loft for stomach sleeping, but I like that I can add it back whenever I want.

—Julia Forbes
If you remember taking those online quizzes to figure out what kind of cheese you would be, this is a much more practical approach to picking a pillow.

Pluto has an AI-driven sleep quiz that asks you about your current pillows, sleep style, and body type, and what you are looking for with your new pillow.

This quiz then delivers your answers to pillow makers based in Los Angeles who will make your customized pillow to order.

I wanted something that would support my primary sleeping positions: side sleeping when I fall asleep, and back sleeping when I wake up.

I love a softer feel from my pillow, and the memory foam core of my Pluto pillow delivers just that.

Neck support can be wishy-washy with softer pillows if you're not careful, but this pillow delivers cervical alignment for mycoat hanger pain.—Julia Forbes
There are far too many pillows on the market.

We've listed our favorites above, but even that doesn't cover the wide array of serviceable designs out there for a good night's sleep.

If, somehow, all of our picks above aren't to your tastes, here are a few others we have tested and what we thought about them.

Avocado Down Pillow for $119:This down model does have feathers sourced fromResponsible Down Standard(RDS)-certified farms, but it felt unimpressive and borderline flat to sleep on.

Avocado Green Pillow for $139:Avocado's fill is made fromGOLS-certified organic latex and GOTS-certifiedorganic kapok, and comes in both a standard shape and side-sleeper curved shape.

It felt much denser than others we tried, and my test panel and I preferred other latex pillows over this one.

Bedgear Storm Pillow for $200:This model from Bedgear is similar to the Bedgear Flow above but without the curve for side sleepers.

If you sleep on your back 100 percent of the time, this might be a better fit, but I prefer the versatility of having one curved side and one straight side.

–Eric Ravenscraft
Brooklinen Down Alternative Pillow for $59:I liked this better than Brooklinen's actual goose down feather pillow, since it had better spring and support.

(I chose the firm option for testing.) I prefer the Buffy Cloud for a down alternative, but this is a solid runner-up.

Casper Hybrid Pillow for $129:This hybrid uses a mix of thick foam and a core of shredded foam for its marshmallow-like, dense-yet-soft feel.

I liked sleeping on the Casper, especially the coolingSnow version ($179), and it did well in my panel tests, but both of my panelists who volunteered to long-term test it came back with disappointing results within a week.

My petite side sleeper found it too firm, and my taller, broader long-term tester found that the Casper wasn't bouncing back quite as much as it should be for the price after a week of sleeping on it.

If you like a firm-ish design, though, you could be happy with this one.

TheSnow versionis slightly cooling, but not super cooling; more of a good winter option for hot sleepers, as one of my panel testers said.

Eli & Elm Everyday Memory Foam Pillow for $104:Compared to the latex version below, the memory foam version feels lumpy.

Most of my panelists disliked it, including myself, but my chaotic sleeper was a fan of its malleable shape for her haphazard sleeping patterns.

Eli & Elm Everyday Latex Pillow for $110:This shredded latex-filled pillow is nice and springy, and it’s a solid runner-up to the Coop and Purple.

I found it comfortable to sleep on as a side sleeper, since it as a higher loft and nice support.

Eli & Elm Side Sleeper Pillow for $115:This pillow is almostshockinglyfirm out of the box.

You can customize the amount of fill inside to give it the right amount of support for you, but if you're the type of side sleeper who likes firm support, this might be the one for you.

It even comes with a separate removable cover for easy washing.

It's smaller than the Scrumptious one, so don't expect to do much cuddling on this one, but for one person it's a great choice.

—Eric Ravenscraft
GhostBed Memory Foam Pillow for $95:Former WIRED reviewerMedea Giordanohas been using the memory foam GhostBed pillow since 2020—she slept on it while visiting with a friend and immediately bought one after returning home.

It's medium-firm and works for her side-, back-, and stomach-sleeping rotation.

GhostBed's claim of it being the “Coolest Pillow in the World” is exaggerated, but Medea sleeps hot, and she says the gel-infused foamdoesstay cool all night.

Marlow Pillow for $65:This is another shredded memory foam model, though it was less lumpy and had better support than the Eli & Elm.

It was a little smaller than the rest, but it also has a slight adjustment option, letting you unzip side panels to make it bigger or smaller.

It was fine to sleep on; I found it a little firm for my liking, but my long-term tester says it's been supportive and cleared up her neck pain.

It's a good option for the price too.

Marshmalloo Pillow for $80:The name isn't kidding—after testing the soft version, this is like the pillow equivalent of Jet-Puffed Marshmallow Creme.

It's not the most supportive for neck pain, but it’s super fluffy if you like some sink or something to hug onto.

—Julia Forbes
Nest Easy Breather Pillow for $124:This is a popular model, but I found it too dense and too lofty for me.

It is adjustable, so you can easily make it less lofty, and it comes with a fill bag to store your extra fill.

The fill is a mix of foam and polyester fiber.

My panelist who liked the firmer Marlow also liked this pillow, while the rest of us preferred softer options.

No More Aches Neck Pillow for $80:There's no shortage of novelty pillows, but as someone who experiences a lot of neck pain, I'm intrigued by this odd little design.

It has a concave center for back, side, and stomach sleeping, plus an indented edge that perfectly fits your arm.

Its awkward shape makes it less than ideal for anything other than laying your head on it, but it's still a solid pick for neck pain.

—Eric Ravenscraft
Parallel High Profile Pillow for $135:Former WIRED reviewerEric Ravenscraftwas a fan of the Parallel's high profile for taller side sleepers.

It's a good option, but I think you'll be just as happy with a Purple or Coop cutout if you need a high loft and side sleeper support.

Pillow Cube Side Cube for $70:The Pillow Cube has a weird little rectangular design.

It seems strange at first, but once you take the quiz and get a recommendation for what size you need, you’ll be matched with the perfect cube for you.

I tested the Side Cube.

It is supportive and a bit squishy, and I think it'd be a good option if you sleep exclusively on your side—with your arms stretched in front of you or near your chest.

I usually sleep with my arm stretched under my pillow, so my head is resting on my shoulder (with a pillow in between), and I found the Cube was less supportive if I slept in my preferred position.

And on the nights when I rolled onto my back, I woke up with neck pain.

But if you only sleep in the ideal side sleeper formation, this model is much more supportive than others I’ve tried.

Make sure you pick up a case!

A normal case is too roomy and doesn’t fit the Cube well.

—Louryn Strampe
Purple DreamLayer Pillow for $209:If you find you switch between being a side sleeper and back sleeper, the Purple DreamLayer pillow provides an excellent middle ground.

Rather than using adjustable fill to customize its height, this model comes with two foam inserts so you can get exactly the level of support you need.

—Eric Ravenscraft
Purple GridCloud Pillow for $149:This pillow is a softer, squishier design with the grid layer we love from the Purple Freeform and Harmony, but it has only one side with the grid instead of two.

It's described as having a down-alternative core, and it does feel much softer, like a down alternative.

I preferred the support of Purple's other models, but if you want something softer with better support than just a down or down alternative filling, this is a great option.

Saatva Graphite Memory Foam Pillow for $165:This model is slightly cooling and has a fluffier feel compared to more sinkage-style memory foam.

Saatva Down Alternative Pillow for $115:I like this down alternative but not more than the much cheaper Buffy.

There are two loft height options, which is nice if you want something specific.

Saatva Latex Pillow for $165:These pillows were provided to Team USA Hockey and USA Figure Skating athletes who competed in theMilano Cortina Winter Olympic Games.

The standard loft was squishy and easily stackable, like what you would do with hotel pillows.

However, it wasn't the firmest for neck support.

Sijo FlexCool Memory Foam Pillow for $80: This pillow with a cooling nylon cover comes with a bag of shredded memory foam to adjust the loft to your liking.

A stomach sleeper, I tested it against the Nest Easy Breather pillow, above, which offers the same concept.

However, the foam that goes into the Easy Breather is of a slightly stiffer construction, which allows it to hold its shape better.

The FlexCool foam is super squishy; I felt like no matter how much fill I added, my head still sank too deeply.

A subsequent side-sleeping tester had the same experience.—Kat Merck
Sleep Number True Temp Adapt Ultimate Pillow for $150:I tested the Ultimate shape since it's a slight crescent-like style that's ideal for side sleepers like myself.

I like this as a side sleeper option, and it's nicely cooling as well.

It's a little smaller than the Coop, but still big enough for the average-sized person.

Slumber Cloud UltraCool Pillow for $109:This pillow is super chilly and super soft, similar to a down or down alternative model.

If you're looking for something extra cool and like the light, malleable support of a down pillow, this is a good choice.

Snorinator for $130:ThisShark Tankalum utilizes the“high Fowler” positionto help snorers sleep upright and open their airways.

I didn't like sleeping sitting up, but it did make a very comfortable reading pillow.—Julia Forbes
Snuggle-Pedic Adjustable Cooling Pillow for $60:This was our favorite pillow under $100, but it's out of stock everywhere right now.

If you can find it available, it's a great option filled with shredded memory foam that you can adjust to get your perfect height.

Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Adapt ProAdjust Pillow for $125:This adjustable-fill model from Tempur-Pedic has a compartment where you can add or remove foam filling to get the perfect amount of support for you.

This is an increasingly common feature, but what sets it apart is Tempur-Pedic's trademark cooling materials.

The company makes some of the best cooling materials on the market, and this one managed to stay cooler than most I tried.

—Eric Ravenscraft
Tempur Pedic Tempur Adapt ProHi for $175:Our previous memory foam pick did fine in my panel tests, but we all preferred shredded memory foam over a solid sheet.

Someone did volunteer to long-term test this as a knee support while they slept, though.

Tempur-Breeze ProHi Pillow for $229:is a wider, more spacious alternative to the Tempur-Adapt ProHi.

It has a similarly high loft, and the foam is firmer and more resistant to pressure than the Adapt.

It's a better fit if you prefer a firmer option, or if you want space to share it with your cuddling partner.

—Eric Ravenscraft
There are a couple different pillow sizes you might find when shopping.

Most of the time pillows come in a standard size and a king size, and you should buy a standard size unless you have a king-size bed.

But there are a few more size options.

All bed pillows are usually 20 inches wide, but the length can vary.

(That's why your pillowcases might seem too long—they're prepared for larger sizes!) If you're curious about more sizes or found a model that has more options to choose from than you know what to do with, here are the usual sizes you can find and what measurements they should have:
You'll want to double-check listings to see what size you're really working with if size is an issue for you.

Buffy, for example, lists a standard size for its pillows, but they're 28 inches long, making those pillows a super standard size.

You won't want to order king-size pillows without a king-sized bed, especially since you'll need king-size pillowcases with your sheets.

Body pillows are the longest of all, and we havea separate guide to those.

What Kind of Pillow Do You Need?

You might think a pillow is a pillow.

It just has to be soft and fit under your head, right?

Your head, neck, and back disagree.

Getting a good night’s sleep can depend heavily on your pillow, so when choosing one, here are a few key questions to ask.

What kind of sleeper are you?Do you sleep on your back, side, or stomach?

Do you stay relatively still, or do you toss and turn a lot?

Do you usually have one pillow under your head, or do you cocoon yourself into a pillow chrysalis?

This is probably the most important thing to keep in mind when deciding what type works best for you, and we've noted our picks below based on sleeping style.

What is the pillow made of?Pillows can be filled with all types of materials, from feathers to foam.

Down and synthetic down arefluffy clusters of fiberthat can feel soft and comfortable, whereas memory foam is designed to compress with the weight of your head but still return to its previous shape.

Organic latex can be heavy and spongey, holding a side-sleeper's head in place.

There are also hybrid pillows that use multiple layers of different materials for a more structured feel.

How are the materials sourced?Since some materials like down feathers come from animals, you might want to be aware of how manufacturers get their fill (literally).

Down filling typically comes from the belly feathers of either ducks or geese.

In order to ensure that down feathers are ethically sourced—such as by avoiding cruel practices like live plucking—programs like theResponsible Down Standardset criteria that manufacturers must adhere to.

Another option is to look for synthetic down alternatives, which use cotton, rayon, or polyester as a synthetic replacement.

The broaderMaterial Matters Standardis a recently overhauled system for examining the environmental impact and sustainability of bedding manufacturers.

How firm is it?However you sleep, you'll want a pillow that keeps your spine straight and your head aligned with your back.

That means you want something firm enough to support your head yet soft enough that it doesn't dig into your ear or face.

How lofty is it?“Loft” is a term often used to describe how high off the bed the pillow keeps your head.

If it's too tall, for example, you might end up with your neck tilted upward, straining it throughout the night.

Most models typically fall into one of three categories: Low loft, which is relatively short and ideal for back sleepers; high loft, which is better for side sleepers (since your head will be further off the bed than when you're on your back); and medium loft, which is somewhere in the middle and best if you're a combination sleeper who doesn't stick to one particular sleep style.

What is the warranty and return policy?You might not think the pillow you sleep (and sweat and drool) on would have a robust warranty, but many manufacturers offer generous policies.

For example, Purple offersa one-year warrantyand even a 100-night trial period.

Casper hasa similar warrantyand a 30-day trial.

If you're unsure whether your new pillow is right for you, check out the company's policies to see what leeway you have to try before you commit—and make sure you’re protected if something goes wrong.

What's the Best Pillow Fill for You?

A variety of filling materials are used, and the type of fill is a big part of how pillows are categorized.

You've heard of down pillows, for example, which means it's full of down undercoating or feathers, and hearing the words “memory foam” usually invokes the sinking sensation that good memory foam can give.

Here's a quick explainer of the main types of fill you'll find and how they differ.

Down:Down pillows, as I mentioned above, are filled with either down clusters (an undercoating on ducks) or down feathers, or a mix of both.

It's a fill that's been around for ages, and it feels similar to a comforter in the sense that it's soft and squishy, and very malleable to shape in any way you prefer.

(But it also doesn't retain its shape well.) Since these are filled with down clusters or feathers, you'll want to check for certifications, like theResponsible Down Standard(RDS), that confirm if the down was ethically sourced.

Down alternative:These pillows aren't a set type, but use other materials to replicate the down experience.

Buffy, for example, uses recycled plastic to create their fill, while Saatva uses a combination of memory foam and latex foam.

You'll have to take a look to see what makes up any down alternative design, since it isn't consistent.

But what is consistent is the different feel.

In my tests, I've found down alternative models are usually more supportive and do a better job holding their shape than a classic down.

Memory foam:Memory foam is popular since it can “remember” its original shape, letting it return to its previous form once your head is off the pillow.

Memory foam does have a sinking sensation to it, which you might like or dislike.

You'll also want to check if the memory foam is a solid sheet or shredded; I've found shredded and cut memory foam to have more bounce and support and less sinkage than a memory foam sheet.

Latex foam:Latex foam is made from rubber, giving it a much bouncier, supportive feel than other foam options.

Latex foam is becoming a popular option thanks to that nice support, and it is usually found with a shredded type of fill that gives plenty of airflow.

Latex is also effective at preventing allergens like dust mites from accumulating in the pillow.

Hybrid:Hybrid is another category gaining in popularity.

It can be a mix of any of the above fills, but I often find it's a sheet of foam combined with either shredded foam or some other kind of softer filling.

Casper, for example, uses both sheets of memory foam and then has a core of shredded foam at the center to give it its marshmallow-like feel.

Cotton, kapok, and wool:These fills are all natural fibers that take less processing than foam, and could be used in a blend with other materials above.

Kapok and cotton are supposed to be on the fluffy end, while wool is great for temperature regulation.

But none are as popular as foam or down options, though you might see these as ingredients in organic or hybrid options.

Are Standard and Queen the Same Pillow Size?

No, a standard size is a little smaller at only 26 inches wide, while a queen size should be 30 inches wide.

You might want to check the measurements in case it's mislabeled to be the same thing, but if you have the choice between the two, I prefer a few extra inches with the queen size.

Why Should You Spend So Much on a Pillow?

You might be surprised by some of the price tags on these pillows.

I remember spending bottom dollar on my pillows for years.

But those bottom-dollar pillows needed to be frequently replaced and didn't provide the long-term support (or even all-night support) my neck needed.

Higher-quality pillows cost more but will use better materials, last longer, and come with trial periods and warranties so that you can test out the pillow of your choice and get a guarantee it'll last.

Plus, while most of these aren't cheap, it's still an affordable investment when you break down how many hours you'll be lying on them.

How Should You Care for Your Pillow?

The best way to wash your pillow is going to depend on the pillow you have.

You can choose to hand wash, spot clean, or machine wash pillows, though you'll want to check the label and make sure it's safe to machine wash it.

If it's not, spot or hand cleaning is your best option.

The easiest pillows to clean are ones that come with removable covers, because you can remove said cover and wash it with other sheets and bedding.

Not all pillow fill should be washed, so that's important to check before throwing an entire pillow into your washing machine.

Our top five picks all have removable covers for easy washing, though for some (like the Honeydew Scrumptious) you'll have to manually remove the filling and store it in a bag, while others like the Purple have a separated cover and fill section.

How Does WIRED Choose Pillows to Review?

We research all pillows we test to make sure we test a variety of styles, fills, and shapes to find which are the most supportive over a night's sleep.

We test both expensive and affordably priced models to see how the quality stacks up, and usually look to test new designs and options to see what's coming next (and every other category we test for).

We also check out reviews and customer feedback when available to see if it's worth testing to compare against pillows we know we already like.

Every pillow in this guide is slept on for a minimum of three nights, with our top picks getting at least a week if not closer to a month of sleep testing from either us, other staffers, or long-term testers.

WIRED reviewer Nena Farrell also hosted a testing panel in March 2025 with six participants and 22 different models.

The panelists all had different sleep styles ranging from classic side and back sleepers to chaotic sleepers who end up underneath their pillows every night, and the panel judged which options they found most comfortable and would be most likely to buy for their sleep needs.

How Does WIRED Acquire Pillows?

What Happens to the Review Units After Testing?

Most of our pillows are provided as review samples by the manufacturer, with no promises made for coverage or type of coverage.

Other pillows are purchased and expensed.

After we test pillows, they're either placed with a long-term tester if the model is a pick, or they're donated.

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