Best Adjustable Pillow 🏅 Emma Premium Microfibre Pillow Price Range: £115 4.5 /10 Exclusive Get 5% OFF the Emma Premium Microfibre Pillow £115
Show discount code Extra 5% off Get 5% off when you buy any size mattress from Emma. Some items excluded, see the Emma UK website for terms.
Valid until 28 July 2023
Combine the above discount code + the discount on the Emma Premium Microfibre Pillow website .
Best for: Highlights: In terms of construction, the Emma Microfibre Pillow boasts a durable and lightweight design. Its conjugated fibres, which weirdly resemble 3D spirals, ensure that the pillow maintains its shape and fluffiness over time.
When comparing the Emma Microfibre Pillow to the Nectar A Whole Night’s Sleep pillow, one noticeable difference is the filling material – while the Nectar pillow uses memory foam, the Emma pillow offers the squishy and plush feel of microfibre. This makes the Emma pillow more suitable for sleepers who prefer a softer and more adaptable surface to rest their heads. It’s basically a softer version of the Nectar, if that’s your thing.
And with four layers, including two removable ones, the Emma pillow provides ample flexibility to find your ideal height and firmness.
Considering the overall package, it’s no surprise that the Premium Microfibre Pillow is regarded as the “Best Adjustable Pillow ” here on WhatMattress – and has been for a few years now.
While it may come with a slightly higher price tag (around £115) compared to its competitors, it still offers decent value for money. Additionally, the 30-night trial period ensures that you have ample time to test it out and decide if it meets your expectations.
So what’s the difference between hollow fibre and microfibre? Allow me to dig deeper into their characteristics and weigh the pros and cons to help you make an informed decision:
Microfibre, typically made from polyester, has gained popularity for its softness, lightweight feel, and durability. It provides a plush and luxurious sleeping experience, gently cradling your head and neck. Microfibre pillows also tend to maintain their shape well , offering consistent support. They are often marketed as hypoallergenic , making them suitable for those with allergies or sensitivities.
Hollow fibre (sometimes spelled hollowfibre ), on the other hand, features tubular fibres that trap air, creating a lightweight and breathable filling. This allows for better air circulation, preventing excessive heat build-up during the night. Hollowfibre pillows strike a balance between softness and support, providing a comfortable surface for your head.
The latter are often more budget-friendly , making them a practical choice for those seeking affordability. However, it’s worth mentioning that the quality of hollow fibre can vary, with some lower-quality pillows losing their loft over time and requiring regular fluffing to maintain their shape and support.
So which is best? Ultimately, the choice between microfibre and hollowfibre should come down to the following:
If you prefer a softer, more luxurious feel and don’t mind sacrificing a bit of breathability, microfibre might be worth considering. However, if breathability and a lightweight feel are important factors for you, hollowfibre could be a better fit. We're completely independent from any mattress company. We've spent countless hours curating and reviewing mattresses that anyone can buy in the UK, and have been doing so since 2018. Mattresses tested: 82 Total hours testing: 602 Pillows tested: 24 Total hours testing: 183 Duvets tested: 35+ Funds spent on testing: £7,500+
Comfy pillow, healthy mind How do I know what pillow to look for? Like with mattresses, there is – sadly – no agreed industry standard scale of comfiness or softness for pillows either. So, you will likely just have to rely on reviews and hands-on experiences to decide if a new pillow is going to be too soft or too hard.
I’ll keep updating this page with more reviews and guidance – unlike most other websites I try to actually test out everything myself before writing a review.
Of course, the perfect pillow loft differs for each person, depending on various factors such as sleep position, head size, body weight, and even mattress firmness.
When it comes to sleep position, stomach sleepers generally prefer less-deep or ‘low loft’ pillows to avoid straining their necks by elevating their heads too much. Back sleepers tend to opt for low to medium depth pillows. On the other hand, side sleepers often find much deeper pillows more suitable as they help maintain proper spinal alignment by supporting the head, neck, and shoulders.
Head size is another consideration – if you have a larger head then you’ll fin dthat you tend to sink deeper into pillows, so individuals with larger heads usually prefer thick pillows. Conversely, those with smaller heads often find lower loft pillows more comfortable.
Body weight also plays a role. Heavier individuals generally benefit from higher loft pillows to provide sufficient support, while lightweight sleepers tend to prefer pillows with lower lofts. However, it’s important to consider other factors such as sleep position and pillow firmness when choosing the right pillow, as body weight alone shouldn’t be the sole determining factor.
The firmness of your mattress is also relevant, surprisingly. Softer mattresses allow for more sinkage, requiring less depth in the pillow to maintain comfort and support. On the other hand, firmer mattresses may necessitate deeper pillows to compensate for less sinkage and provide adequate support to the head and neck.
Read Next If you like a softer pillow that’s all snuggly and plush, options like down, down alternative, or shredded foam are great choices. They give you that cozy, sink-in feeling that some sleepers love. On the other hand, if you prefer a firmer pillow that provides more support, solid foam, latex , or buckwheat pillows might be right up your alley.
Now, if you’re all about that close contouring action, foam or latex pillows are your go-to. They really adapt and mold to your head and neck, giving you that personalised fit. And for those who want the freedom to adjust the fill of their pillow, shredded foam, shredded latex, or buckwheat pillows are the way to go. You can add or remove fill to get it just right for you.
Not always.
Adjustable height pillows stuffed with foam cubes are of course a good option if you prefer to customise the height and stiffness of your pillow(s) – this adjustability is usually done via the addition, or removal, of small foam cubes or “clusters”.
Adjustable-height pillows are advantageous because of the flexibility they provide: they easily let you try out various setups to discover the one that best suits your needs in terms of head and neck comfort and support. And let’s be honest, most people don’t know what type of pillow they need, according to research .
But with one of these, you can alter the height of your pillow to suit your personal preference, whether that’s via a flatter or deeper feel. Here’s a photo of the Simba ‘nanocubes’ which are basically the same thing:
Pillows stuffed with these foam cubes also have the added benefit of being breathable and allowing for (adequate) air circulation. The air that circulates depends on each pillow / each brand, and can vary quite a lot.
Do be aware that an adjustable foam-cube-height pillow won’t be right for everyone . When compared to other fillings, the texture and feel of foam cubes may not be ideal for some sleepers and they take some getting used to, particularly for harder cubes.
Annoyingly, the cubes may also move or settle over time, necessitating periodic readjustment – or fluffing up – to keep everything at the right comfort level.
Considering the below factors will help you find a pillow that aligns with your sleep preferences and provides the necessary comfort and support for a restful night’s sleep:
Firmness Level: Pillows come in varying firmness levels. The desired firmness depends on personal preference and sleep position. Softer pillows may be preferred by those who enjoy sinking into their pillow, while firmer pillows offer more support.Sleep Position: Your preferred sleep position greatly influences the type of pillow that will provide optimal comfort and support. Stomach sleepers tend to prefer softer, flatter pillows, while side sleepers often need thicker pillows for proper neck alignment. Back sleepers typically find medium-depth pillows suitable.Price: Pillows are available in a wide price range. While price doesn’t necessarily indicate quality, it’s important to consider your budget and find a pillow that offers good value for money. There are plenty of decent pillows available at affordable prices.Pressure Relief: Pressure relief is an important consideration for those who experience discomfort or neck pain. The pillow’s materials, loft, firmness, and your sleep position all affect its ability to alleviate pressure points and promote a comfortable sleep surface.Breathability: Opting for a pillow with good breathability and airflow can prevent excessive heat buildup during the night, keeping you cool and comfortable. Look for pillows with breathable covers or materials that promote air circulation.Durability: While it’s difficult to predict exactly how long a pillow will last, considering the quality of the materials and construction can give you an indication of its durability. High-quality materials and sturdy stitching tend to contribute to a longer-lasting pillow.Allergies/Sensitivities: If you have known allergies or sensitivities, check the pillow’s composition to ensure it is hypoallergenic and.or it’s made with materials that won’t trigger any adverse reactions.Pillow Size: Consider the size of the pillow in relation to your body and bed. In the UK, these are mostly standard, but some specialists have larger or smaller pillows.Maintenance and Care: It’s important to consider how easy it is to clean and maintain the pillow. Some pillows come with removable and machine-washable covers, while others may require spot cleaning or professional cleaning. Additionally, check if the pillow retains its shape and quality after washing or prolonged use. When it comes to picking the perfect pillow to ease back pain and get a good night’s sleep, it’s all about promoting that sweet spinal alignment. You will want a pillow that cushions your head, neck, and shoulders just right, giving you the support you need…
If you’re a stomach sleeper dealing with back pain, go for a shallow or low-depth pillow. It won’t prop your head up too high and keeps things nice and level. Back sleepers can also go for a low-depth option, but they might need a smidge more height to stop their heads from tilting back too far.
Now, side sleepers with back pain, listen up. You’ll want a medium- to deep pillow to make sure your head, neck, and shoulders are cozily cushioned; that extra loft helps with proper alignment and gives you the support you need to snooze away.
More from WhatMattress... Methodology: How I decided on the best pillows Research and Selection: I conducted extensive research on various pillow brands and models available in the UK market. I considered factors like material, construction, firmness, and customer reviews. After careful consideration, I selected a diverse range of pillows to test for this review. Criteria Definition: I established specific criteria to evaluate the pillows. These criteria included comfort, support, durability, breathability, pressure relief, and value for money. They formed the basis for my assessment of each pillow’s performance. Testing Process: I dedicated significant time to testing each pillow individually, where possible, following a consistent and standardised approach. I used the pillows for at least a week to thoroughly assess their performance over time. I paid close attention to factors such as initial comfort, sleep quality, and any noticeable improvements or drawbacks. Sleep Positions and Scenarios: I tested the pillows in various sleep positions thta align with common preferences, including back, side, and stomach sleeping . I evaluated how each pillow catered to different sleeping styles and whether they provided adequate support and alignment. Performance Evaluation: Each pillow was evaluated against the predefined criteria. I used a rating scale and scoring system to provide an objective assessment of each pillow’s performance. I considered aspects such as pillow loft, firmness, pressure relief, breathability, and overall comfort. Comparison and Analysis: I compared the performance of each pillow, taking into account the established criteria. I identified strengths and weaknesses for each model and analysed how well they met different sleep preferences and needs. I looked for standout features and benefits that set certain pillows apart from the rest. Gathering Feedback: In addition to my own testing, I sought feedback from other individuals who also tested the pillows. This allowed me to incorporate different perspectives and insights into the review, enhancing its credibility. Here at WhatMattress we take mattress research seriously - all our product tests are done as fairly and honestly as possible.
That's quite a bold claim, but we're proud of the attention to detail that you're hopefully seeing within our reviews. Our methodology sets us apart from many other review websites. I like to think this is because WhatMattress is only run by two people - Carrie and Anthony. Over the years we've hand-tested multiple mattresses, pillow and other bedding products - so that you don't have to!
Every single mattress is put through its paces using the following tests:
We make sure to live with the mattress for at least a week. We always sleep on the mattress we're testing - every single night. We will always be 100% honest when we weigh up the pros and the cons of each mattress. And in most cases, we've bought the mattress ourselves and haven't been given a free one. Read Next And there we have it.
Choosing the best pillow in the UK in 2023 is a highly personal decision that depends on various factors such as sleep position, firmness level, and budget. Though it’s a minefield, by understanding your preferred sleep position, whether you’re a stomach, side, or back sleeper, you can select a pillow that provides the right support and alignment for a comfortable night’s sleep.
Stomach sleepers may benefit from softer, flatter pillows, while side sleepers often find thicker pillows more suitable. Back sleepers generally prefer medium-depth options.
Firmness level is another crucial consideration. Some individuals prefer the plush feel of a softer pillow, while others seek firmer support.
Finding the perfect pillow requires taking into account your own personal tastes, sleeping habits, and financial situation. Make an educated decision and purchase a pillow that offers ideal comfort and support by prioritising aspects like sleep position and hardness level. Always keep in mind that purchasing a high-quality pillow is an investment in your health and happiness. So, be picky, and get the revitalising sleep you deserve.
And let me know in the comments below what you think!
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Are down pillows suitable for people with allergies? Down pillows may not be suitable for individuals with allergies as they can harbor dust mites and allergens. However, there are hypoallergenic down alternative pillows available that offer similar softness and comfort without triggering allergies.
What is the best pillow for side sleepers? The best pillow for side sleepers is typically one that offers adequate loft (height) and firmness to keep the head and neck properly aligned. Memory foam pillows or adjustable pillows with customisable depth/filling options are often recommended for side sleepers as they provide excellent support and contouring.
How do I clean and maintain my pillow? Most pillows come with care instructions, but generally, it is recommended to regularly fluff and rotate the pillow to maintain its shape & also prevent clumping. Some pillows have removable covers that can be machine washed, while others may require spot cleaning.
How we reviewed this article: Our experts continually monitor the mattress & sleep tech space, and we update our reviews & articles when new information becomes available.
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