The Best Feather Pillows for Comfortable Sleep

Feather pillows have been around since the days of ancient Rome—replacing stones as pillows! With their cloud-like feel and malleable shape, it is no wonder they have withstood the test of time. Feather pillows have evolved along with modern technology to accommodate all sleepers who prefer a softer base. If you are contemplating the switch, take a look at our favorite feather pillows and learn more about whether or not they are right for you.

The Best Feather Pillows

What is Inside a Feather Pillow?

Ironically, feather pillows are rarely stuffed with 100% feathers. Feather pillows are usually a combination of duck or goose feathers and down filling. In order to be considered a feather pillow it must contain at least 30% feathers. The more feathers in the pillow, the firmer it becomes. The down material is typically placed on the edges while the middle fills with feathers. This combination is then cased in a fabric material (usually cotton or polyester) which is stitched tight to prevent the feathers from escaping. The higher the thread count, the less chance for escape.

Why You Need a Feather Pillow

Feather pillows are among the softest-feeling pillows and are an investment because they tend to be more durable and long-lasting. Feather pillows also tend to be more insulating which means they are cooling during every season. Packed with material, feather pillows are usually thick, making it one of the best support pillows. Overall, feather pillows have a luxurious feel backed up by great support.

Things to Consider Before Purchasing A Feather Pillow

All of the feather pillows on the market have something different about them, which can make it hard to choose the best one for you. Here is a list of things that should factor into your decision of which feather pillow to invest in.

Sleep Position

As previously mentioned, feather pillows tend to be thick: perfect for side and back sleepers. They offer the support these sleeping positions need to avoid neck pain. However, this thickness can actually cause neck pain for stomach sleepers through misalignment. But, there are brands of feather pillows made for all sleep positions, so stomach sleepers can experience the softness too.

Size

When searching for a feather pillow, consider which size pillow fits into your sleep space. Standard sizes are the shortest pillow sizes, but the most common: about the size of your everyday pillow. Super Standard is about 2 inches longer than standard pillows for people who want something slightly longer. Queen is meant for those who toss and turn throughout the night; it is 4 inches longer than standard. King sizes are a whopping 10 inches longer than standard-size pillows. This size is for people who are restless sleepers or those who want a backrest in bed. Euro the name for square pillows that come in a variety of dimensions. Finally, body-sized pillows are what they sound: pillows as wide as a body, used to cuddle with at night.

Shape

Feather pillows are usually malleable and easily shaped, but the volume of feathers can determine the thickness. Thicker pillows are better for back and side sleepers, and less thick pillows are better for stomach sleepers. Regardless of the thickness these pillows will be 100% snuggle-friendly.

Firmness

Though these pillows are soft and can be easily shaped, how they are stuffed can determine the firmness level. If you prefer a more firm pillow, look for a pillow with a higher volume of feathers. If you like it less firm, look for less feather volume. But beware if you are a light sleeper that higher volumes tend to be more noisy.

Feather Type

Feather pillows are stuffed with one of two feather types: goose or duck. The goose feathers that are inside feather pillows are from the wing and back and are naturally white. They are typically considered higher quality and more resilient. Because of this, they are more expensive. Duck feathers are considered lower quality, but are more affordable. Beware of duck feathers dyed white to emulate the look of white feathers. This type of duck feather is lower quality.

Down-to-Feather Ratio

The interior of feather pillows will either be a combination of feather and down filling or all feather. Down filling is the under layer of the feather on the bird. The down filling is soft, sustaining, and insulating. Feather is heavy and supportive while down is soft and protective. Because down gives the pillow a softer feel, the more down the more expensive the pillow. Pillows with primarily down filling are referred to down pillows. Check out our best down pillows guide for more information.

Allergies

Just because you are allergic to bird feathers or have asthma, does not mean feather pillows are a no-go for you. Many feather pillows create their covers or clean the feathers to the point where they are hypoallergenic. Just make sure to check the notes from the manufacturer to be certain.

Cleaning

Because feather pillows can be delicate, most are typically dry-clean only. However, some brands crafted them so that they are machine washable. When washing at home, make sure to balance the washing machine by putting two pillows in the wash at the same time. Use any water temperature, detergent, and cycle that the instructions say. Make sure the cleaning instructions are compatible with want you want before purchase, or it could turn into a feathery mess.

Cost

The price point of feather pillows varies from $25 to $100. Knowing your budget first is the easiest way to choose a feather pillow your bank account will not regret. After that, search of the aspects you would like in a pillow: firmness, feather type, down level, size, etc.

Durability

On average, feather pillows last 2-3 years. Some high-quality feather pillows, like the Down & Feather Co. pillow we mentioned earlier, are built to last even longer. Splurging on a luxury feather pillow is an investment depending on your budget.

Temperature

Feather pillows sleep cooler than other types of pillows because they do not retain the heat your body gives off—ideal for hot sleepers. Pairing it with a cooling comforter or cooling sheets will be sure to keep sleep temperature down.

Return Policy

Return policies and warranties vary by company. The best way to determine if the feather pillow of your choice has a return policy you are comfortable with is to read the fine print before purchase.

Rating

Reading reviews and looking at rating from previous customers is the best way to gauge how the pillow or pillow set ships, delivers, packages, and sleeps. Websites like Amazon have vast amounts of these reviews readily available.

Summary

For a pillow that is both comfortable and supportive, look no further than feather-stuffed pillows. These pillows are filled with goose, duck, or down feathers, creating a soft, cool sleeping experience. Feather pillows are built to last and are easy to care for. For a comfortable cuddle-friendly sleep, consider making feather your alternative pillow.