Buying a pillow isn’t as easy as it sounds. In fact, your pillow purchase should take into consideration factors such as price, cover material, breathability, loft, fill, and much more. Pillow stuffing is similar to mattress styles - for instance, hybrid, memory foam and innerspring mattresses - in that it’s one of the most influential factors in how a pillow feels, who it’s appropriate for and how much it costs. In this article, you’ll learn about the different types of pillow stuffings available, who each is best for, and how to choose the right pillow stuffing for your body type and personal preferences. We also share our picks for the best pillows sold today. What Are The Different Types of Pillow Stuffing? The material a pillow is stuffed with directly affects how it feels, how much it costs and how it influences your health. Here are the most common types of pillow stuffing and the pros and cons of each.

Polyester stuffing, or poly-fil, consists of small, curled polyester fibers that are man-made. Sometimes referred to as down alternative, they’re designed to mimic the soft, lightweight qualities of down fill. This fill is among the most affordable stuffing types and can be used indoors and outdoors. Polyester pillows are also lightweight and easy-to-clean, but they flatten and lose their shape relatively quickly. More affordable than other types, including genuine down pillows. Suitable for people who experience allergies when exposed to true genuine down. Among the most affordable pillow stuffing types. Have poor durability and flatten or lose their shape with type. Filling clumps easily, requiring frequent adjustments to achieve a comfortable loft. Retains heat, so you may sleep warm. Memory foam pillows are either filled with shredded memory foam or have a solid block of memory foam inside that’s shaped for comfort. Made with polyurethane and other components, memory foam is notorious for its sinking, viscous feel that conforms to a sleeper’s head and then returns to its original shape within a few seconds.

However, it’s also known for emitting a strong odor, the off-gassing smell can be enough to make shoppers with sensitive noses want to avoid it altogether. Malleable, viscous feel for great pressure relief. Does not clump like polyester fiberfill. Supportive enough for sleepers of all styles, weights, and body types. May have off-gassing and a strong chemical odor. Shredded memory foam retains heat, though not as much solid memory foam blocks. High price point compared to other pillow fill types. A down pillow is filled with the plumage of ducks and geese. Sometimes confused with a feather pillow, Comfortable Sleep Pillow down pillows must have at least 75% down fill and no more than 25% feather fill. This high-quality pillow fian be found in organic and raw varieties or mixed with shredded polyester. Cotton is soft to the touch, making it easy to work with, and it’s also naturally hypoallergenic. It’s a little more firm than polyfill, making it a good choice for people who want a middle-of-the-road price point with more durability. When all-natural and organic, it’s free of potentially harmful materials found in synthetic foam pillows. Naturally breathable, helping sleepers stay cool. Universally comfortable feel that people find it easy to sleep on. Fibers of cotton may clump together over time. The filling may need to be replaced more frequently than other types.