As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
If you wake up with a stiff neck, overheat at 3 a.m., or toss all night looking for a comfortable spot, your pillow may be part of the problem. Here are four options for different sleepers and budgets, with the downsides included.
Click on the pillow name below to take you to its product page :
1. DreamyBlue Signature Adjustable Shredded Memory Foam Pillow: best for adjustable support
The fill is shredded memory foam, so you can add or remove filling to get the height and firmness you want. It’s CertiPUR-US certified, which means the foam is made without certain harmful chemicals. It suits people who haven’t found the right loft in a standard pillow. One thing to know: some reviewers say the foam shifts around inside the pillow, so you may need to fluff and redistribute it from time to time.
2. Ultra Pain Relief Cooling Pillow: best for neck support
This is an ergonomic contour pillow with an adjustable cervical design, and it’s listed for side, back, and stomach sleepers. It’s worth a look if neck stiffness is your main complaint. Two things to know: a few reviewers find it a bit high, so it may not suit you if you prefer a flatter pillow. And it may have a slight odor when new.
3. QUTOOL Cooling Pillow Set of 2: best for hot sleepers
These are CertiPUR-US certified shredded memory foam pillows made for sleepers who run hot, and the set comes with two. The firmness is adjustable, which helps if you share a bed or want one for guests. One thing to know: it has an odor when first received, so give it time to air out.
4. Amazon Basics Down-Alternative Pillows (2-Pack): best budget pick
These are soft and machine washable, and they’re meant for back and stomach sleepers. If you want something simple and inexpensive, this is a good starting point.
A tip for new memory foam pillows
Memory foam can have a slight odor when new. Take the pillow out of the plastic packaging and air it out in a well-ventilated spot for about 48 hours before sleeping on it.
How to choose
Side sleepers usually need a thicker, firmer pillow to keep the neck aligned.
Back and stomach sleepers generally do better with a softer, flatter pillow.
Hot sleepers should look for cooling fills and breathable covers.
Check current prices and reviews on Amazon before you buy, since both change often.