Pillows for Side, Back & Front Sleepers
You fluff, you fold, you turn the pillow over to the cool side, but you just can’t quite get comfortable. Finding the perfect pillow can sometimes feel a little tricky, one is too hard, one is too soft, and it takes a bit of trial and error to find the one that is just right.
While your duvet keeps you warm and your sheets feel lovely against your skin, it is your pillow that supports your head and neck, ensuring you wake up feeling refreshed rather than stiff. The secret to finding your match isn’t just about luxury fillings or thread counts, but it’s actually all about how you sleep. Whether you curl up on your side, snooze on your back, or sprawl on your front, your sleeping position dictates exactly what kind of support you need.
Pillows for Side Sleepers
If you naturally curl up on your side to sleep, you are in good company, as this is the most common sleeping position. However, it is also the position that requires the most specific support to keep everything in line. When you lie on your side, your shoulder creates a gap between your head and the mattress. If your pillow is too soft or too thin, your head drops down, putting a strain on your neck.
So, what is the best pillow for side sleepers? You need a pillow that is firm enough and deep enough to bridge that gap, keeping your head elevated and your spine in a nice, straight, neutral line. We generally recommend a firm or medium-firm rating for side sleepers. When considering what firmness is best for side sleepers, look for fillings that hold their shape well, ensuring that your head stays supported throughout the night.
You can explore our collection of pillows for side sleepers to find your perfect fit.
The Perfect Pillow for Back Sleepers
For those who sleep on their back, the requirements are a little different. You don't have the shoulder gap to worry about, but you do need to ensure your chin isn't being pushed onto your chest, which happens if the pillow is too high, or that your head isn't tilting too far back.
You are looking for medium support that gently cradles the head and supports the natural curvature of the neck. A pillow with a medium loft will keep your spine aligned without propping you up too high.
If you find yourself in this category, take a look at our curated range of pillows for back sleepers to find a comfortable balance.
Find Pillows for the Front Sleepers
Sleeping on your stomach is the least common position, and it can be a bit tricky for your neck alignment. If your pillow is too high or firm, it forces your head backwards at an uncomfortable angle, which can lead to aches and pains in the morning.
If you are wondering what pillow for front sleepers, or what pillow for stomach sleepers is best, the golden rule is to keep it low. You need a soft, shallow pillow that provides a layer of cushioning comfort without lifting your head too much. Look for soft feather and down options or low-profile synthetic pillows that compress easily.
Our collection of pillows for front sleepers is designed to offer just the right amount of softness for a peaceful night.
The Mixed Sleeper
Of course, many of us don't stick to just one position. You might start on your back and wake up on your side. If you are a mixed sleeper, a medium-firm pillow is often the safest bet, offering a good balance of comfort and support, however you happen to land.
For those who need a little extra versatility, or perhaps some support while reading in bed, our V-shaped pillows are a brilliant addition to your bedding repertoire. They offer excellent support for sitting up and can be used to provide extra cushioning where you need it most.
How to Find the Perfect Pillow
Once you have an idea of your sleeping style, you might still have questions about fillings or sizing. Our duvets, pillows and toppers advice page is full of helpful information to guide you further. We also have a handy size guide to ensure you get the perfect fit for your bed linen, so you don't end up with a pillow that is swimming in its case or bursting at the seams.
Caring for Your Pillow
Once you have found 'the one', you will want to keep it fresh and supportive for as long as possible. We recommend washing your pillows every six months or so to keep them hygienic and plump. Most of our pillows can be machine-washed, but it is vital to dry them thoroughly to prevent the filling from clumping.
You can find all our tips on keeping them in tip-top condition in our guide on how to wash bedding.
If you are looking to refresh your whole bed, you can browse our combined duvets and pillows collection. For a more detailed breakdown on fillings and feel, our guide on how to choose your pillow is always there to help.