If you're in the market for a new pillow, down pillows are a smart choice because of their softness and comfort. But with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. Because of this, we've compiled a list of the top 5 down pillows on the market to help you make an informed decision and get the best sleep possible.
​Best overall: Continental Bedding Goose Down Pillow |
​Best down pillow for side sleepers: East Coast Bedding Goose Down Pillow |
Best down pillow for back sleepers: Royal Hotel Down Pillow |
Best down pillow for stomach sleepers: Basic Beyond Goose Down Feather Pillow |
Best down pillow for combination sleepers: puredown Goose Down Feather Pillows |
The best down alternative pillow: AmazonBasics Down Alternative Bed Pillows |
Best down pillow premium option: ZSEDP Down Pillow |
Best overall: Continental Bedding Goose Down Pillow
The Continental Bedding Goose Down Pillow offers a balance between softness and support, making it suitable for various sleep preferences. With a goose-down filling, this pillow provides a comfortable feel without excessive sinkage.
Available in soft and firm options, as well as standard, queen, and king sizes, the Continental Bedding Down Pillow caters to individual needs. The pillow also comes in single and double packs. As an RDS-certified product, this down pillow ensures the filling is sourced responsibly and ethically.
The pillow features an Egyptian cotton shell for added quality. Made in the USA, it is backed by a long-standing reputation for excellence in the bedding industry.
Prices vary from pillow to pillow but the double-pack king-sized, soft pillow (one of the most popular options) is available for $219.99 ($110 each).
Pros
550 fill power goose down provides a comfortable balance between softness and support
Soft and firm options accommodate different preferences
Various sizes (standard, queen, king) and pack options (single or double) are available
RDS-certified, ensuring ethically sourced down
Egyptian cotton shell adds to the quality
Made in the USA (which assures no exploitation of workers in the production)
Cons
Might require regular fluffing to maintain its shape
Could be more expensive compared to other down pillow options
Best down pillow for side sleepers: East Coast Bedding Goose Down Pillow
The East Coast Bedding Goose Down Pillow is designed with genuine goose feathers, aiming to provide a balance between softness and support. Specializing in luxurious and natural bedding products, East Coast Bedding uses premium materials and Egyptian textiles to ensure the highest quality.
Available in king, queen, and standard sizes, the pillow can also be used for neck, lumbar, or back support due to its design. It is also available in double and single packs for each size, making there more alternatives to choose from.
Although prices depend on the size and the pack, the double-pack king-sized pillow is available for $259.99 (each one costs approximately $130).
Pros
High-quality goose feathers are used for softness and support
Multi-use design for neck, lumbar, and back support
Available in king, queen, and standard sizes
Premium materials and Egyptian textiles for quality
Retains no moisture, ensuring a comfortable sleep experience
Cons
Requires regular fluffing to maintain shape and comfort
Dry clean only, which might be less convenient for some users
Best down pillow for back sleepers: Royal Hotel Down Pillow
The Royal Hotel Down Pillow offers luxury and comfort for back sleepers, featuring a 500 thread count cotton cover and 700 fill power white down filling. With medium firmness, this pillow provides the necessary support and softness for a comfortable night's sleep.
These down pillows come in a set of two and are allergy-free. They are factory sealed and finished with double silky piping for a clean appearance. Upon receiving the pillows, it is recommended to fluff them gently and allow a few hours for them to regain their full loft.
The king-sized pillow is available for $189.99 and the queen/standard-sized can be found for $179.99 (at the time of publication).
Note: we only recommend the medium-firm options for back sleepers, but feel free to buy whichever you prefer.
Pros
500 thread count cotton cover for added luxury
700 fill power white down filling for medium firmness
Allergy-free design suitable for sensitive sleepers
Comes in a set of two pillows
Double silky piping for a clean finish
Cons
Requires time for the pillows to recover their full loft after unpacking
Dry clean only, which may make the cleaning process harder
Best down pillow for stomach sleepers: Basic Beyond Goose Down Feather Pillow
The Basic Beyond Goose Down Feather Pillow is a pillow option that is suitable for stomach sleepers. It contains a filling of 90% goose feathers and 10% down, providing a balance between firmness and softness. This composition aims to support the head and neck without causing discomfort.
The cover is made of 100% cotton and features a jacquard square pattern. A double-layer fabric on the pillow insert surface helps to prevent feather leakage.
At the time of publication, there are 3 options to choose from when talking about these pillows: double-pack king size, double-pack queen size, and single-pack queen size, with prices varying from $40 to $45. You can also choose from white and classic white as colors (shown below, white first and classic white second 👇)
Pros
90% goose feathers and 10% down filling for optimal support and softness
The gusseted design caters to various sleep positions and preferences
Luxurious 100% cotton cover with high-quality zippers and jacquard square pattern
Double-layer fabric on the pillow insert surface for enhanced durability and protection against feather leakage
Machine washable for easy and convenient care
Cons
Some users may find the pillow too firm or too soft depending on their individual preferences
Potential allergies due to the use of goose feathers and down filling
Best down pillow for combination sleepers: puredown Goose Down Feather Pillows
The puredown Premium Goose Down Feather Pillow offers a luxurious and comfortable sleep experience. Available in two sizes, Standard/Queen (20 x 28 inches) and King (20 x 36 inches), these pillows cater to various needs and preferences. Filled with 90% grey goose feathers and 10% grey goose down, they strike the perfect balance between support and comfort. The pillows feature 100% cotton covers with a breathable and soft texture, and high-density down-proof lining fabric to prevent leakage of the inner filling. The down and feathers used in these pillows are ethically-sourced and adhere to the Responsible Down Standard (RDS).
On Amazon, coming in packs of two, these pillows are available for $411.99 (each one costs half of this price, therefore each one costs approximately $205).
Pros
Available in multiple sizes for various needs
Breathable, soft, and durable 100% cotton covers
Ethically sourced and premium-quality down and feathers
High-density down-proof lining fabric for added protection
Effective loft retention, maintaining support and comfort over time
Hypoallergenic properties make it a great choice for allergy sufferers
Easy care and maintenance with machine washable instructions
Cons
Higher price point compared to budget options (but offers excellent value for a premium pillow)
May not cater to specific requirements (e.g., severe neck pain or unique sleep positions)
The best down alternative pillow: AmazonBasics Down Alternative Bed Pillows
The AmazonBasics Down Alternative Bed Pillows is a set of two pillows made with a 100% polyester microfiber cover and a down alternative fill, making it a Climate Pledge Friendly option too. The pillow is available in standard and king sizes and features a medium-firm support level, making it ideal for both stomach and back sleepers.
On Amazon, they can be found for $32.65 in the case of the standard size and for $36.38 in the case of the king size. Take into account that it comes in sets of two, as I mentioned before.
Pros
Affordable: The AmazonBasics Down Alternative Bed Pillows are priced affordably, making them a great choice for those on a budget.
Easy to clean: The pillows are machine washable and dryable, making them easy to clean and maintain.
Soft and supportive: The pillows provide a soft and supportive feel that conforms to the contours of the head and neck.
Lightweight: The pillows are lightweight and easy to move, making them a good choice for those who like to switch positions while sleeping.
Easy to pack: For those who like to travel (or need to do so), their pillow mustn't be heavy, and as this one is lightweight, it can easily be packed, making it a suitable alternative.
No feathers: The pillows are made without feathers, making them a good choice for people who prefer to avoid animal products or have ethical concerns about feather harvesting.
Availability: As it is an Amazon Basic, various discounts are offered throughout the year.
Cons
Not as durable: The pillows may not be as durable as down pillows, and may need to be replaced more frequently.
May flatten over time: Some users have reported that the pillows may flatten over time and lose their loft and support.
May not be as breathable: The pillows may not be as breathable as down pillows, which may cause some users to feel too warm while sleeping.
Best down pillow premium option: ZSEDP Down Pillow
The ZSEDP Down Pillow is a luxurious pillow designed for those seeking comfort and support while they sleep. This pillow features a unique fine quilting design that divides it into multiple mini pillows, ensuring balanced support and a fluffy feel. Crafted to prioritize comfort and softness, the ZSEDP Down Pillow aims to provide a healthy and comfortable sleeping experience.
Crafted in China and available on Amazon for $1,767, these pillows are filled with down and cotton. Lastly, the ZSEDO Diwn Pillow can be both hand-washed and machine washed.
Pros
Innovative quilting design provides balanced support and enhanced fluffiness
Focus on comfort and softness for a better night's sleep
Easy care, with options for hand washing or machine washing
Suitable for various sleep positions
Cons
Limited information available on materials used and certifications
Price may be higher than other down pillow options
FAQs
Q: Which down pillow should I buy?
A: When choosing a down pillow, consider factors such as your sleeping position, allergies, sensitivities, and personal preferences. We have already listed the best down pillows for every type of sleeper above 👆
Q: Are down pillows good for neck pain?
A: Down pillows can be beneficial for neck pain as they conform to the shape of your head and neck, providing support without being too firm. However, choosing the right firmness level is essential based on your sleeping position and personal preferences.
Q: Can down pillows be washed?
A: Many down pillows can be machine washed, but following the manufacturer's care instructions is crucial to avoid damaging the pillow. Some down pillows may require professional dry cleaning.
Q: Where does down for pillows come from?
A: Down is the soft layer of fine feathers found beneath the tougher exterior feathers of birds, typically geese or ducks. Ethical down pillows use responsibly sourced down, ensuring that the feathers are not live-plucked and come from suppliers who follow animal welfare standards.
Q: How often should I replace my down pillow?
A: The lifespan of a down pillow can vary depending on the quality and care, but generally, it should be replaced every 5 to 10 years. Signs that it's time to replace your pillow include loss of support, flattened or uneven filling, and persistent odors.
Q: Are down pillows hypoallergenic?
A: Down pillows can be hypoallergenic if they are properly cleaned and treated during manufacturing to remove allergens. Look for pillows with a tight weave cover and those labeled as hypoallergenic or allergy-free.
Q: How do I fluff my down pillow?
To fluff your down pillow, hold it at opposite corners and push the corners in and out. You can also place the pillow in a dryer with a few clean tennis balls on low heat for a few minutes. Fluffing your pillow regularly helps maintain its loft and support.
Q: What is the difference between down and feather pillows?
A: Down pillows are filled with the soft under-feathers of birds, while feather pillows contain a mix of down and larger, firmer feathers. Down pillows are generally softer and more expensive, while feather pillows provide more support and are more budget-friendly.
Q: How do I choose the right firmness for my down pillow?
A: The ideal firmness for a down pillow depends on your sleeping position. Side sleepers typically need firmer pillows, back sleepers need medium-firm pillows, and stomach sleepers need softer pillows. Some down pillows come in various firmness options to cater to different sleepers.
Q: Are there any ethical concerns with down pillows?
A: Ethical concerns with down pillows include live-plucking and inhumane treatment of birds. Look for pillows with certifications like Responsible Down Standard (RDS) or Downpass, which ensure the down is responsibly sourced and adheres to animal welfare standards.
Feel free to check out our website if you want to learn more about pillows. From educational posts, to top lists and product reviews. Touch here to learn everything you need to know!
Conclusion
In conclusion, finding the perfect down pillow for a luxurious night's sleep involves considering factors like sleeping position, personal preferences, and allergies. It's essential to research brands, materials, and certifications to ensure you invest in a high-quality, ethically sourced pillow. This guide provided insights into the best down pillows for different sleepers, premium and affordable options, and answered frequently asked questions. By choosing the right down pillow, you can significantly enhance your sleep quality, overall health, and well-being.