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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.

In-Depth Reviews

  • Pros

    1. Breathable organic cotton cover

    2. Medium firm feel

    3. Moldable design

  • Cons

    1. Too thick for stomach sleepers

    2. Not machine-washable

Price Range

$105 – $125

Fill

Down Alternative

Firmness

Medium

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.

  • Pros

    1. Available in three firmnesses for different position preferences and body types

    2. Mid-Plush and Firm options use a dual-core construction for plushness and support

    3. 365-day return window

  • Cons

    1. Down fill may trigger allergies in some sleepers

    2. Returns incur a $9.95 fee

Price Range

$109 – $149

Fill

Canadian white down clusters or down/feather blend

Firmness

Plush, Mid-Plush, Firm

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.

  • Pros

    1. Chambered design features a supportive core and plush surface

    2. Lyocell fibers in outer chamber have moisture-wicking properties

    3. Each order backed by an “Allergy Free” warranty

  • Cons

    1. Not suitable for sleepers with severe allergic reactions to down or feathers

    2. Customers must pay $12.95 for return shipping

Price Range

$79 – $89

Fill

550 Fill power Hyperclean down and Resilia feather

Firmness

Medium Firm

For all of their positive qualities, many hotel-style down and feather pillows sink excessively, and neck pain often follows Pacific Coast’s Hotel Down Surround Pillow features a core chamber with supportive feathers, and an outer chamber with a blend of real down and lyocell fibers. This creates inviting plushness on the surface without excessive sinkage, resulting in optimal neck support.

Lyocell has moisture-wicking properties, so the pillow is a good option for anyone who tends to sweat in their sleep. Another cooling element is the cover, which is made from naturally breathable cotton. A tight weave helps the shell resist wear and keep the fill intact. Standard and king sizes are available.

The down and feathers are washed multiple times to remove dust, dander, and other allergens. Even so, the pillow may be problematic for people with allergies to these materials. Pacific Coast’s “Allergy Free” warranty allows you to return the pillow free of charge within 30 days and receive a refund if you notice any symptoms.

The Hotel Down Surround Pillow is affordably priced compared to other similarly constructed models on the market today. If you reside in the contiguous U.S., you’ll also receive free delivery if you order a king size, and qualify for reasonable flat-rate shipping if you order a standard size.

  • Pros

    1. Natural silk fill is both luxuriously plush and exceptionally durable

    2. Breathable shell composed of viscose derived from bamboo

    3. Excellent shape retention ensures minimal clumping over time

  • Cons

    1. May be too expensive for shoppers on a strict budget

    2. Returns incur a shipping fee

Price Range

$279 – $329

Fill

Long-Strand Mulberry Silk

Firmness

Medium Soft

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.

  • Pros

    1. Luxurious design pairs lofty goose down with smooth cotton sateen

    2. Available in two density levels

    3. Year-long sleep trial included with each purchase

  • Cons

    1. Sleepers with allergies may be sensitive to down fill

    2. Requires frequent fluffing

Price Range

$120 – $159

Fill

100% European white goose down

Firmness

Medium Soft, Medium Firm, Firm

Pure goose down is one of the softest pillow fill materials used today. As such, goose down pillows tend to be on the pricier side. The Quince Luxe Goose Down Pillow offers exceptional quality and comfort without the expensive sticker price. Lofty goose down creates a gentle cradle for your head and neck, and two density levels are available to accommodate different sleep positions.

The shell is composed of cotton sateen for a soft, gliding feel that won’t irritate the skin. A double-stitch perimeter with subtle piping protects the fabric from wear and tear that can lead to fill escaping. You may wash and dry your pillow in household machines. Alternatively, the pillow may be dry cleaned. Certification from the Responsible Down Standard indicates no geese are harmed to acquire the down, and that the animals are treated humanely throughout their life cycle.

You can choose between two density levels for your pillow. The soft/medium design is best suited to stomach sleepers because it won’t elevate the head or strain the neck too much. Back sleepers who prefer thinner pillows may also prefer this option. If you sleep on your side or are a back sleeper who prefers a thicker pillow profile, the medium/firm design should provide enough loft to keep your head upright and your spine properly aligned.

The Luxe Goose Down Pillow’s sticker price is reasonable, and Quince offers free ground delivery for U.S. orders. The company’s 365-night trial period is one of the longest in the online bedding industry. If you aren’t satisfied with the pillow, you’ll receive a full refund — even if the pillow has been used and laundered — and return shipping is also free of charge.

  • Pros

    1. Plant-derived fill mimics the softness of down

    2. Dual-chambered design ensures balance of support and cushioning

    3. Machine-washable

  • Cons

    1. Stomach sleepers may prefer a thinner pillow

    2. Customer is responsible for return shipping fee

Price Range

$135 – $150

Fill

Plant-based down alternative fibers

Firmness

Medium

The Sweet Zzz Plant-Based Pillow has an exceptionally soft design that mimics the feel of down but is derived from plants. The down alternative fill makes the pillow a great option for sleepers who are allergic to down or who prefer products that are not sourced from animals.

The pillow is designed with two chambers. The outer chamber contains a lower-density fill that creates a plush, fluffy surface. The inner chamber has a denser fill that generates support. The balance of plushness and support is ideal for many sleep positions, but we especially recommend it for side and back sleepers. The pillow contours closely to the head and neck thanks to the plush outer layer, but it doesn’t compromise on support due to the supportive inner layer.

The entire pillow is encased in a breathable cotton cover. Our testers found the pillow does not retain excessive heat, so we recommend it for sleepers who run hot. You can machine wash the pillow in cold water on a gentle cycle then tumble dry on a low setting.

Sweet Zzz offers a 50-night return policy, so you can try the pillow at home. If you decide to keep the pillow, it’s also backed by a 1-year warranty. Shipping is free to addresses in the contiguous U.S.

  • Pros

    1. 600 fill power down ensures luxurious cushioning

    2. Four firmness options

    3. 245 thread count cotton shell

  • Cons

    1. Pillow is not machine-washable

    2. Down may trigger allergies in some sleepers

Price Range

$119 – $149

Fill

600 fill power down

Firmness

Soft, Medium, Firm, Extra Firm

Hotel-quality pillows typically meet certain standards of luxury, but The Company Store Legends Hotel Best Down Pillow takes it up a notch with luxurious 600 fill power down and an array of options that can accommodate a broad range of sleepers.

The pillow comes in four firmness levels — soft, medium, firm, and extra firm. All models are filled with high-quality down and encased in a 245 thread count cotton shell. The firm and extra firm are most beneficial to side sleepers, who need substantial loft and firmness to fill the space between their neck and bed surface. The medium model may also feel comfortable for side sleepers, in particular those who prefer a plusher pillow, but the soft model lacks the support needed to keep your neck comfortable in the side sleeping position. 

The Legends Hotel Best Down Pillow carries Responsible Down Standard (RDS) certification to show it has met certain standards for ethical sourcing. You can choose between a standard, queen, or king size. Dry cleaning is recommended to ensure the pillow’s longevity.

The pillow qualifies for free shipping within the contiguous U.S. Customers receive a 30-day trial and lifetime guarantee with their pillow purchase.

  • Pros

    1. Three firmness options available

    2. Down and feather composition compresses deeply for pressure relief

    3. Machine-washable

  • Cons

    1. Above-average price-point

    2. May feel too plush for sleepers who prefer responsive pillows

Price Range

$158 – $228

Fill

Down, down-feather core

Firmness

Soft, Medium Firm, Firm

The Boll & Branch Down Chamber Pillow has a luxuriously plush design that offers the best of both worlds when it comes to support and cushioning. You can also choose between three different firmness options to ensure a good match with your sleep position and personal preferences.

The pillow is available in a soft, medium, or firm model, all designed with three chambers. The soft model contains down in all three chambers, resulting in an exceptionally plush feel that compresses deeply. The medium and firm options feature supportive feathers in the core and down in the outer two chambers, offering a more even balance of softness and support. The pillow is machine-washable for easy care.

We found the firm model was best suited for side sleepers, who need a lot of support and loft to keep the head and neck aligned. The medium model felt comfortable for either back or side sleepers, offering just enough firmness to keep the head elevated without cranking it too high. The soft option was most ideal for stomach sleepers, who typically experience neck strain if a pillow is too firm and thick.

Shipping within the contiguous U.S. is free, and you’ll receive a 30-day sleep trial to test out the pillow at home.

  • Pros

    1. Chambered design features a plush down surface and supportive feather core

    2. Cotton cambric shell is soft, smooth, and breathable

    3. RDS certification indicates humane and ethical animal treatment

  • Cons

    1. Cannot be returned

    2. Not suitable for sleepers with allergic reactions to down or feathers

Price Range

$120 – $136

Fill

550 fill power white duck down, feather fill

Firmness

Medium

The best pillow for any given person largely depends on their preferred sleep position. If you’re a side sleeper, chances are you’ll feel most comfortable with a thick, densely constructed pillow that fills the space between your head and shoulder without compressing too deeply — this promotes even alignment and reduces pressure buildup along the spine. PlushBeds’ Hotel Chamber Down & Feather Pillow checks all of these boxes and earns bonus points for its luxurious, cruelty-free construction.

The pillow’s outer chamber contains pure white duck down with 550 fill power, ensuring plenty of loft and a plush, cloud-like surface for your head and neck. An inner chamber with feathers creates a supportive core and prevents the pillow from sinking too much beneath your weight. These chambers also distribute the fill nicely, so you shouldn’t need to fluff the pillow too often in order to maintain a full shape.

A smooth cotton cambric shell encases the fill. This material glides gently and is ideal for people with sensitive skin. Double-stitched edges with thin piping help the fabric withstand wear and tear. You may wash and dry the pillow in your household machines as long as they provide adequate space. Alternatively, you can opt for dry cleaning if stains or smudges occur. Standard and king sizes are available.

The Hotel Chamber Down & Feather Pillow is fully biodegradable, and a certification from the Responsible Down Standard ensures PlushBeds adheres to the highest standard for ethical and humane animal treatment. Standard ground shipping is free throughout the contiguous U.S. Returns are not permitted at any point after you place your order, but the pillow is covered under a two-year warranty against manufacturing defects.

  • Pros

    1. Goose feather fill offers above-average support

    2. 4 density/firmness options

    3. Eco-friendly design

  • Cons

    1. Customer must pay $11 for return shipping if shipping was free for initial order

    2. May require frequent fluffing

Price

$99

Fill

100% Hungarian goose feather

Firmness

Soft, Medium, Firm, Extra Firm

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.

Best Hotel Pillows Video

Watch the video below to learn more about our top picks for best hotel pillows.

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.

ProsCons
  • 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.

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.

Still have questions?

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Send an email to [email protected] with your questions and we’ll help you find exactly what you’re looking for.

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