Hotel bedding is synonymous with luxury. Since hotels need to accommodate a wide range of needs, preferences, and sleep positions, it should come as no surprise that most hotel pillows are as versatile as they are durable.
The quintessential hotel pillow has mid-range firmness and loft, is allergy-friendly, and resists wear and tear. However, variations on this gold standard are also available to fit different sleep styles. One thing that remains consistent across virtually all hotel pillows is their luxurious feel, which balances plushness and support.
Since hotel pillows are typically both comfortable and long-lasting, they can be an excellent choice for in-home use. Read on to learn more about how hotel pillows are constructed, where to buy them, and how to compare them.
Product Details
Best Overall
Saatva Down Alternative Pillow
Price: $105 - Queen
$125 - King
Fill: Down Alternative
Firmness: Medium
Who it's best for:
- Sleepers who enjoy the feel of down but are allergic to it
- Those who sleep hot
- Side and back sleepers
Highlights:
- Breathable organic cotton cover
- Medium firm feel
- Moldable design
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The Saatva Down Alternative Pillow uses high-quality materials that are designed to enhance breathability and comfort. Made from hypoallergenic down alternative fiber clusters, the pillow is suitable for people who appreciate a plush feel but are allergic to genuine down feathers. The Down Alternative Pillow also has the most accessible price-point of all Saatva pillows.
The pillow consists of microdenier down alternative fibers, which have a fineness similar to silk. The fibers are also porous, so the pillow is breathable in addition to being soft. Even though the fibers are lightweight, the cluster structure is more durable than standard types of fiber fill. The cover is made of cotton, a fabric that further enhances the pillow’s breathability. Satin piping on the cover adds a nice aesthetic touch.
With a medium firmness level, the Saatva Down Alternative Pillow can comfortably accommodate a range of sleep styles. Side and back sleepers under 230 pounds may especially enjoy the pillow’s mid-level loft. The pillow is very moldable, which might appeal to people who like to cuddle their pillows.
The Saatva Down Alternative Pillow is available in queen and king sizes. The pillow is not machine-washable and should only be spot-treated as needed.
Saatva offers free shipping and a 45-day return policy for the Down Alternative Pillow. The model includes a non-prorated 1-year warranty that covers defects in craftsmanship and materials.
Best Value
Brooklinen Down Pillow
Price: $69-$99 - Standard
$89-$119 - King
Fill: Canadian white down with feather core
Firmness: Plush, Mid-Plush, Firm
Who it's best for:
- Those who want a choice of firmness options
- Shoppers who are comforted by a generous return policy
- Stomach sleepers (the Plush option)
- Side sleepers (the Firm option)
Highlights:
- Available in three firmnesses for different position preferences and body types
- Mid-Plush and Firm options use a dual-core construction for plushness and support
- 365-day return window
New Brooklinen Customers can use code HOLIDAY15 to get 15% off their orders
Thanks to three firmness levels, most sleepers can find a Brooklinen Down Pillow that meets their needs and preferences.
The three firmness options are labeled as Plush, Mid-Plush, and Firm, which correspond to soft, medium, and firm respectively. Stomach sleepers can use the Plush option to add softness without a lot of loft. Side sleepers may prefer the extra support of the Firm pillow. Combination sleepers and those looking for a more versatile option might favor the Mid-Plush option.
Each firmness also has a distinct build. The Plush pillow is filled exclusively with down clusters for a fluffier feel. The Mid-Plush and the Firm use a dual-core design with supportive feathers in the center and soft down clusters in the outer layer. A higher ratio of feathers to down gives the Firm option its extra support. Each pillow is encased in a cotton sateen shell that feels soft-to-the-touch while preventing the feathers from escaping.
The pillows are treated with antimicrobial additives to reduce odors and keep them fresh. The Brooklinen Down Pillow can also be freshened up by using a dryer on the air fluff/no heat setting or leaving it outside on a dry day. Dry cleaning is also possible, but it may shorten the life of the pillow.
Standard and king sizes are available. Customers who aren’t satisfied with their Brooklinen Down Pillow can get a full refund of the purchase price through the company’s 365-day return policy.
Most Comfortable
Boll & Branch Down Alternative Pillow
Price: $80 - Standard
$95 - King
Fill: PrimaLoft synthetic microfibers
Firmness: Soft, Medium, Firm
Who it's best for:
- Side, back, and stomach sleepers
- Eco-conscious shoppers
- Sleepers who want a down-like feel
Highlights:
- PrimaLoft fill mimics real down
- Soft, medium, and firm options
- Organic cotton cover offers breathability
Use this SleepFoundation.org link for the most current discount on Boll & Branch pillows
Sleepers who like the feel of down but prefer a different material should find the Boll & Branch Down Alternative Pillow a comfortable choice. Filled with PrimaLoft, this pillow has a lightweight and plush feel that’s comparable to down. PrimLoft is a synthetic fiber that’s designed to wick moisture and regulate temperature. The fill also keeps its shape well, which may be beneficial for sleepers who like to mold their pillows.
Shoppers can choose between soft, medium, and firm options. Side sleepers will likely prefer the firmer, thicker pillow while stomach and back sleepers may find the soft and and medium levels are better suited to their needs.
A breathable 100% cotton cover wraps the pillow while piped edges and embroidery give it an elegant look. Boll & Branch focuses on sustainable manufacturing and high-quality materials. The company’s use of eco-friendly packaging and organic materials should appeal to ethically minded shoppers.
You can machine wash your pillow on the gentle cycle and tumble dry on low. Shoppers in the U.S. who purchase the Boll & Branch Down Alternative Pillow enjoy free ground shipping and a 30-night sleep trial.
Best Luxury
Cozy Earth Silk Pillow
Price: $279 - Standard
$329 - King
Fill: 100% long-strand mulberry silk
Firmness: Medium soft
Who it's best for:
- Hot sleepers
- People who prefer very soft surfaces for their head and neck
- Shoppers who want to invest in a long-lasting pillow
Highlights:
- Natural silk fill is both luxuriously plush and exceptionally durable
- Breathable shell composed of viscose derived from bamboo
- Excellent shape retention ensures minimal clumping over time
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Few bedding materials match the luxurious softness and natural longevity of mulberry silk. The Cozy Earth Silk Pillow’s fill is 100% mulberry, creating a plush yet supportive surface for the head and neck. The material holds a full shape, so you should notice little to no clumping or shifting even after continuous use. In fact, loss of shape is one of the structural defects covered under the pillow’s product warranty.
Silk is also naturally breathable and retains minimal heat. Another cooling component of the pillow is a cover made of viscose derived from bamboo, which has moisture-wicking properties to keep you dry in any weather condition. These qualities should appeal to hot sleepers and anyone who tends to sweat in their sleep.
Cozy Earth recommends spot cleaning or dry cleaning the pillow as needed. However, you may machine wash in a non-spin rinse cycle and tumble dry on delicate or low heat. Hanging the pillow to dry is also an option. Standard and king sizes are available.
The Silk Pillow’s expensive price-point reflects its high-quality materials and design, but Cozy Earth offers free ground delivery for U.S. orders. You may return the pillow within 100 days of the purchase date for a full refund, minus shipping charges. The pillow is also backed by a 10-year warranty.
Softest
Pacific Coast Luxury Goose Down Pillow
Price: $150 - Soft Support
$170 - Medium Support
$200 - Firm Support
Fill: 600 fill power white goose down
Firmness: Soft, Medium, Firm
Who it's best for:
- People who aren’t sure whether they’re allergic to real down
- Those who normally find down pillows too soft and prone to sinkage
- Hot sleepers
Highlights:
- Premium design consists of white goose down with a breathable organic cotton shell
- Three firmness options make the pillow compatible with different sleep positions
- All orders come with an “allergy-free” warranty
Free ground shipping on all domestic orders with code: PACIFIC
Pacific Coast offers an extensive selection of down and feather pillows. The Luxury Goose Down Pillow epitomizes hotel-caliber quality thanks to its premium materials and impeccable craftsmanship. The fill is composed of white goose down with a fill power of 600, resulting in an exceptionally plush surface for the head and neck, while the cover is made from smooth organic cotton. Sturdy double-stitching along the perimeter makes the pillow resistant to wear and tear, so you won’t need to worry about the fill escaping.
Three firmness levels are available for the pillow. While all versions offer a sumptuously lofty feel when you lay down your head, the medium support and firm support designs maintain a flatter surface and won’t sink as much. People who typically don’t use down pillows because they feel too soft should consider either the medium or firm support, while those who enjoy the telltale plushness of these pillows may prefer the soft support design instead.
The cover is removable and machine-washable, allowing you to keep the pillow clean without laundering the down. That said, you may also launder the pillow at home if you have a large washer without an agitator. Wash in cold water on a gentle cycle, then tumble dry on low heat. The pillow may also be dry cleaned if your washer is incompatible and you don’t have convenient access to a laundromat.
Pacific Coast backs the Luxury Goose Down Pillow with a 30-night sleep trial, as well as a 30-night “allergy-free” warranty. The latter makes the pillow a good option for people who don’t know if they are allergic to real down and want to take precautions before investing in a down pillow. A 3-year warranty against structural defects is also included with each purchase.
Best Cooling
Standard Textile Chamber Down Pillow
Fill: Polyester (Outer Chambers), Sterilized Natural Feathers (Inner Chamber)
Firmness: Medium
Who it's best for:
- Individuals looking for fully machine-washable pillows
- People who prefer the feel of down
- Those seeking hotel-quality pillows
Highlights:
- Hybrid down and polyester design balances plushness and support
- Three-chamber construction keeps fill evenly distributed
- Fully machine-washable for easy care
Use this SleepFoundation.org link for the most current discount on Standard Textile pillows
The Chamber Down Pillow by Standard Textile, also known as the Chamberloft pillow, is constructed with two outer chambers filled with hypoallergenic polyester surrounding an inner chamber filled with sterilized feathers. The cover is made from breathable 100 percent cotton and is double-stitched for durability.
Standard Textile is known for supplying luxury hotels around the world with quality bedding, and as a result, their pillows are built to withstand regular washing and drying without losing their loft. The three-chamber construction of the pillow ensures that the fill remains evenly distributed through the laundering process. The outer chambers of polyester provide plushness, while the inner chamber of natural feathers provides support to help keep the sleeper’s neck properly aligned.
The pillows are sold as a set of two and are available in standard and king size. Standard Textile offers a 90-day return window, during which unsatisfied customers can receive a full refund, minus any applicable shipping and handling fees.
Best for Side Sleepers
The Company Store Legends Hotel Supreme Down Pillow
Price: $159+ - Standard
$179+ - Queen
$199+ - King
Fill: 100% 600-fill power white goose down
Firmness: Soft, Medium, Medium Firm, Firm
Who it's best for:
- Those who prefer the exceptional softness of real down
- Hot sleepers
- Value seekers
Highlights:
- Fill consists of plush, lofty 600 fill power goose down
- Four firmness options to suit different sleep positions
- Excellent breathability from cotton sateen shell
Use this SleepFoundation.org link for the most current discount on The Company Store pillows
The Legends Hotel Supreme Down Pillow from The Company Store is packed with premium white goose down, one of the softest natural materials used in bedding today. A fill power of 600 ensures an exceptionally lofty feel, allowing your head and neck to sink into the down. Many people liken this sensation to lying on a cloud. The shell is made of smooth cotton sateen that promotes airflow and won’t rub harshly against the skin.
Four density levels are available. The soft option offers the lowest profile, making it ideal for stomach sleepers who feel most comfortable on thin pillows that don’t elevate the head too much. Back sleepers may prefer the medium density pillow for its mid-range profile and balanced support. Side sleepers can choose between the firm and extra firm densities, both of which create a thick, full profile to fill the gap between your neck and shoulders. Cushioning this area can promote spinal alignment and reduce pressure in the neck and shoulders.
Standard, queen, and king sizes are available. The Company Store recommends dry cleaning the pillow, as machine washing can permanently damage its structural integrity. An approachable price-point makes the Legends Hotel Supreme Down Pillow a good option for shoppers on a budget, though how much you pay depends on which density level you choose. Shipping is free within the contiguous U.S. for all orders of $75 or more, a range that covers all options for the pillow, and returns are permitted within 90 days of the purchase date.
Best Support Options
Down & Feather Hotel Collection Feather Pillow
Fill: 100% Hungarian goose feather
Firmness: Soft, Medium, Medium Firm, Firm
Who it's best for:
- People who prefer very lofty pillows
- Eco-conscious shoppers
- Value seekers
Highlights:
- Goose feather fill offers above-average support
- 4 density/firmness options
- Eco-friendly design
Use this SleepFoundation.org link for the most current discount on Down & Feather Company pillows
The Hotel Collection Feather Pillow from Down & Feather is another pillow with multiple density options to serve different sleep positions. The lowest-density “thinner” pillow also has a thin profile that is conducive to stomach sleeping, the “thin” pillow offers mid-range thickness well-suited to back sleeping, and the “thick” and “thickest” pillows provide plenty of loft for side sleeping.
The fill consists of Hungarian goose feathers, which provide decent support for the head and neck compared to down. The feathers are washed using recycled water and eco-friendly soap, so the pillow should appeal to customers with environmental concerns. Pure Egyptian cotton is used to construct the shell, resulting in a luxuriously crisp and breathable feel. The pillow does not contain any chambers or inner baffles, so the perimeter is held together with double-stitching and cording.
The Feather Pillow is quite affordable, especially compared to pillows that contain down. Shipping is also free for orders of $150 or more within the contiguous U.S. Down & Feather Co. backs the pillow with a 30-night comfort guarantee and a 10-year warranty.
How to Choose a Good Hotel Pillow
When buying a hotel pillow, there are certain criteria to take into account. Assessing your priorities and taking a close look at a pillow’s features can help you get the best hotel pillow for your needs and budget.
What to Consider When Purchasing a Hotel Pillow
“Universal comfort” or “for all sleep positions” are common buzzwords for hotel pillows. This typically means that the pillow has a mid-range firmness and loft, so it can accommodate most body types and position preferences. While these pillows may be comfortable for most individuals, that doesn’t necessarily mean they’ll feel ideal to you.
Paying attention to specific criteria is the most effective way to judge whether a pillow will meet your unique needs and preferences.
Size: Shoppers often select a pillow size that corresponds to their mattress size for a tidy look and convenient fit. However, some individuals may choose a smaller or larger option based on their personal preferences.
Loft: Pillow loft affects how far the pillow lifts the head. For ideal spinal alignment, stomach sleepers usually need a low-loft pillow or no pillow, back sleepers typically require a medium-loft option, and side sleepers generally need a medium- or high-loft pillow. However, these general guidelines can also be affected by firmness. For instance, a soft high-loft pillow may not support the head and neck any more than a firm low-loft option.
Since hotel pillows are typically designed to accommodate as many sleepers as possible, they often have a medium loft.
Shape: Pillows vary in shape based on their intended use. There are u-shaped pillows for travel, wedge-shaped pillows to elevate the head or legs, curved pillows for back support, and so many more options. Hotel pillows are designed for use in bed, so they tend to have the standard rectangular shape.
Weight: The sleeper’s weight often affects how firm of a pillow they need. Heavier individuals often rely on a firmer pillow for support, while lighter people may prefer a softer pillow for more cushioning. Weight also affects how firm a pillow feels, so a firm pillow may feel soft or medium to someone who weighs more, and a soft pillow could feel medium or firm to someone who weighs less.
Firmness Level: A pillow’s firmness influences its supportiveness and plushness. Softer pillows may be ideal for stomach sleepers who don’t need much support, while firmer options are typically better for side sleepers who need to keep their necks aligned. Most standard hotel pillows have a medium to firm feel, but some manufacturers also produce soft hotel-style pillows.
Fill: The fill of a pillow is responsible for its pressure relief, support, and overall comfort. Hotel pillow fill varies, with some using real feathers and/or down and others using polyester or microfiber down alternative. Any type of high-quality material can make a pillow feel luxurious and supportive. While down and feathers often have a stronger association with luxury, they may not be ideal for some allergy sufferers or people concerned with animal welfare. Down alternative pillows are often more affordable and easier to clean.
Cover Material: Most hotel pillows use cotton covers in either a percale or a sateen weave. Cotton is popular for its smooth feel and breathability. Some hotel pillows may use lyocell, polyester, rayon, and/or other materials in their covers, all of which can be comfortable depending on their quality and composition.
Pressure Relief: Hotel pillows are often built for pressure relief, balancing conforming and support to spread out the weight of the head and neck while promoting proper spinal alignment.
Price: Pillow prices vary dramatically, starting at less than $10 and reaching upwards of $1,000. Hotel pillows usually fall closer to the middle of the range, averaging between $60 and $150.
Temperature Regulation: Most hotel pillows use breathable materials so that they do not retain excessive heat during the night. Down alternative models typically allow the most cooling airflow thanks to their breathable fill. Selecting a pillow with strong temperature regulation may be especially important for those who tend to sleep hot.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Hotel Pillows?
Hotel pillows are popular for a reason. They’re typically suitable for sleepers of different body types and position preferences. However, there are a few potential drawbacks. For many shoppers, the most significant downside may be the price, which is usually higher than standard pillow models on the market.
| Pros |
Cons |
- Accommodates different body types and position preferences
- Usually more durable than other pillow types
- Frequently use high-quality materials
- Generally allergy-friendly
- Comfortable balance of support and softness
|
- Higher price tag than some models
- Firmness level may not be ideal for some sleepers
- Lower-quality options may be less durable
|
Which Hotel Pillow Sizes Are Available?
Pillow size options vary between manufacturers, but standard, queen, and king sizes are typically most common.
Standard: Standard size pillows usually measure around 20 inches by 26 inches. This size is commonly used with twin and standard size mattresses, and it can fit into a standard or queen pillowcase.
Super Standard: Super standard pillows are less common than other sizes, measuring 20 by 28 inches. This slightly longer pillow may be a good option for those who do not want to leave much of a gap between the end of the pillow and the edge of the bed. They are especially popular for twin size beds, including bunk beds. Most standard and queen size pillowcases should accommodate them.
Queen: Queen size pillows typically measure approximately 20 inches by 30 inches. This extra length better fills the head end of a queen size bed and provides more room for the sleeper to move around and change position. Most queen size pillows should fit into either a standard or a queen pillowcase.
King: Most king size pillows measure 20 inches by 36 inches, making them the largest standard bed pillow size. This pillow size typically makes a king size bed look more polished, but it may also be beneficial for sleepers with broader shoulders.
Specialty: In addition to standard pillow options, there is a wide range of specialty shapes and sizes. While these are seldom labeled “hotel pillows,” they may provide the same luxurious feel customers want from a hotel pillow. Other common pillow types include body pillows, travel pillows, wedge pillows, and neckroll pillows.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hotel-Quality Pillow
What kind of pillows do hotels use?
Hotels use different types of pillows depending on their goals and budgets. While there is no universal hotel standard, most hotel pillows contain down and/or feathers or a down alternative. Most hotel pillows have a mid-range loft and firmness so that guests can enjoy some support and cushioning regardless of their body type and sleep position.
How much do hotel pillows cost?
Hotel pillows typically cost between $60 and $150, but you can also find lower- and higher-priced options.
How do I clean a hotel pillow?
Always clean your hotel pillow according to the manufacturer’s care instructions. If the manufacturer did not provide care instructions, contact them for more information. Following the best care standards for your pillow can help extend its lifespan. Some pillows are machine washable, and others can be dry cleaned.
Where can I buy a hotel pillow?
Hotel pillows are sold through manufacturer websites, department stores, housewares stores, and hotel chains.
How long do hotel pillows last?
Most pillows last for one to two years but hotel pillows tend to be more durable, typically lasting around two to three years.
Are hotel pillows adjustable?
Hotel pillows are not traditionally adjustable, but you may find some adjustable models labeled as “hotel pillows.”
Do hotel pillows have an odor?
A pillow’s odor will depend on its materials. Down and feather pillows are typically more likely to have an odor than down alternative options. However, the manufacturer may provide instructions on how to clean the pillow to reduce odors.
