The Best Pillows

Finding your fave type is entirely subjective; our testing for top quality is not. We compressed, washed, and inspected 66 pillows stuffed with fiberfill, down, foam, wool, and combo materials. Here are the ones we found most snooze-worthy.

Photo: Philip Friedman/Studio D

Fiberfill Pillows

It's no dream: Top pick Aller-Ease Washable Allergy Protection ($11 to $14) is a super deal; allergy protection, a nice bonus. For lovers of down who can't use it, try The Company Store PrimaLoft Deluxe ($40 to $60), which feels almost like the real thing.

Down & Feather Pillows

Down & Feather Pillows

The washable Lands' End Essential Goose Down ($79.50; shown) didn't quack, er, crack—under stress, retaining its smooth seams and soft texture after many launderings. If you prefer firm support, the Pacific Coast Affirm Pillow ($80) will hold your head high.

Foam Pillows

Foam Pillows

Leggett & Platt Home Collection Brisa ($69 to $79) bounced right back after a night under 30 pounds of weight. Budget buy Cannon Ventilated Contour ($22) also handled the pressure. Both have a washable cover, but because foam can't be laundered, top with an extra zippered pillow protector.

Wool-Filled Pillows

Wool-Filled Pillows

An all-natural alternative to down, the surprisingly plush All-Season Wool Pillow ($69 to $89) is made of 100 percent wool batting covered with unbleached cotton. It can't be laundered, so cover with two zip-close protectors. Toss in a no-heat dryer for five minutes to freshen the pillow itself.

Down/Foam Combo Pillows

Can't decide between fluffy down and firm foam? Stearns & Foster Down Caress ($100) puts that debate to rest with its latex core surrounded by down clusters—and covered in a luxe cotton/silk fabric. All that fanciness makes it dry-clean-only (so yes, you should double-bag this one, too).

Did you know?
A pillow can be "broken."
To test: Fold it in half, put a book on top, and let go. Stays folded? Replace.

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