What should you consider when buying a pillow?

In this article you’ll read about 7 factors to consider when buying a pillow. Think of it as a checklist that helps you find your ideal pillow. Whether you sleep on your side, back or stomach, together we’ll find the perfect pillow for your sleeping position. 😴

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I’m buying a pillow: what should I look for?

#1 | Sleeping position

Your sleeping position is one of the most important factors when choosing a pillow. Do you usually sleep on your side, back or stomach? There is a specific type of pillow for each position that supports your neck and spine in the best possible way. See below which pillow suits your sleeping position:

• Side sleepers benefit from a firmer and higher pillow because it fills the space between your head and mattress. This helps keep your neck aligned with your spine in a natural posture. That can prevent a lot of tension and pain. Learn more about pillows for side sleepers.
• Back sleepers are best off with a medium thickness pillow that supports the head without overstretching the neck. Be sure the pillow is not too thick as that may tilt your head forward, leading to neck or back discomfort. Learn more about pillows for back sleepers.
• Stomach sleepers usually need a soft and thin pillow so your neck stays in a neutral position and there’s not too much pressure on your face. Learn more about pillows for stomach sleepers.

#2 | Firmness and filling type

Do you prefer a firm pillow or one that you can cosy up to? Your preference determines which type of filling suits you best. The filling is the main factor that defines firmness and comfort.

• Soft pillows are ideal for those who prefer a cuddly, plush feel. These pillows are usually thin and don’t offer much support. They are primarily suitable for stomach sleepers with a firm mattress. Common fillings include: down, feathers and synthetic fibres.
• Medium pillows strike the perfect balance between softness and support. They feel like a cloud while providing proper head and neck support. Ideal for back and side sleepers. Fillings include memory foam and latex blended with softer materials.
• Firm pillows (also called hard pillows) offer maximum support and are ideal for side sleepers. Such pillows help keep your neck aligned with your spine, reducing strain. Common fillings include memory foam, latex and stuffed micro or synthetic fibres.

#3 | Size, shape and thickness

The standard pillow size (50 by 70 cm) suits most people. But the ideal height differs per person. That is why at Cloudpillo we developed adjustable pillows so you can create the perfect shape and size by adding or removing filling. For example, the Cloudpillo Original is filled with memory foam pieces that adapt fully to your sleeping position. If the pillow is too high or too low, simply adjust the filling. Et voilà: your perfect fit! The Cloudpillo Recharge is also adjustable: you can easily remove one or two segments to customise comfort.

If you sleep on your side and want optimal neck and spine support, consider the Cloudpillo Plus. It includes a contour for your shoulder so it doesn’t need to compress your shoulder into the pillow. You can also customise it fully by adding or removing filling.

#4 | Breathability and temperature balance

If you get hot at night, you need a breathable pillow with good temperature control. A pillow that absorbs moisture and dissipates heat keeps you cool and comfortable all night long. At Cloudpillo, we’ve thoughtfully incorporated cooling technologies into the outer covers of all our pillows. That way you sleep well in summer and winter. Here are some of our most breathable pillows:

• Cloudpillo Air is our lightest pillow (what’s in the name, right?). Its memory foam has hundreds of air channels, ensuring breathability and durability.
• Cloudpillo Dynamic is our most innovative pillow yet, thanks to a structure of air channels that keeps it feeling fresh and breathable no matter how clammy the nights get.
• Cloudpillo Original has a cool side coated with Ice Silk technology to keep you cool in summer—while the other side keeps you warm on cold nights.
• Cloudpillo Recharge offers real hotel-grade comfort with a temperature sensitive fabric that adapts to your room temperature so you are never too hot or too cold.

#5 | Allergies

If you suffer from dust mites or another allergy, go for hypoallergenic pillows. Look for materials like cotton, bamboo, memory foam or synthetic fillings, which are less prone to mites, mould or skin flakes. Tip: choose a pillow with a washable cover that you can pop in the wash regularly. All our pillows meet those criteria: they are supportive and hypoallergenic!

#6 | Care and durability

When buying a new pillow, you want it to last. Check whether the entire pillow can be machine washed or only the cover. Also look into the filling: does it clump, or does it stay supportive? Want to know more? Read our blog: When should you replace your pillow?

#7 | Price

Last but not least: cost. Do your research on pillow types and price ranges to set a personal budget. Keep in mind a pillow typically lasts 3 to 6 years—you may want to invest a little more for better long term comfort. Sleep quality matters for a vibrant life. Bonus tip: check our sale page for great deals.

Which pillow will you choose? Take the quiz

Overwhelmed by choice? We can help. Take the quiz and find out which pillow fits you best. Need personal advice from our Dream Team? Just reach out—we’ll match you with your perfect pillow. 🧡

Take the quiz!

Overview: all Cloudpillo pillows

Here’s a summary of all our pillows:

100 night trial

Now that you know which pillow to choose, does it really live up to expectations? Try it out—enjoy a 100 night trial with Cloudpillo, or test it in person at one of our partner locations. Want personalised advice? Feel free to get in touch.