7 Best Polyester Pillows – Soft and Smooth

This article will help you choose a perfect polyester pillow depending on your needs and supply you with tips and tricks on how to take care of it.
By
Romeo Vitelli
Romeo Vitelli
Expert Writer
Received his doctorate in Psychology in 1987, spent fifteen years as a staff psychologist in Millbrook Correctional Centre. In 2003 went into full-time private practice. read more
reviewed
Reviewed By
Medical Advisory Team
Medical Advisory Team
Includes well-known professionals, who together provide decades of sleep medicine experience that enables Talk About Sleep to fulfill its mission of creating access to high- read more
Last updated: September 05, 2023
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Sleeping pillows are perhaps the most important comfort materials in a bed set. What makes polyester pillows so special is that they are affordable, soft, and are ideal for people suffering from allergens as they are odor-free, and are easy to maintain. Polyester pillows adapt perfectly to the shape of the head and neck. Pillows with polyester fillings and/or covers are breathable and prevent unpleasant sweating at night.

From ordinary polyester fiber to polyester microfiber, and polyester down alternative fillings, we pick the year’s best polyester pillow, compared and reviewed them.

Quick Summary

  • Editor’s Choice: Utopia Bedding Gusseted Pillow
    "The Gusseted Pillow Set from Utopia Bedding is filled with fluffy polyester hollow fibers. It’s available in King and Queen sizes with a cotton blend fabric and a medium density."
  • "Covered with a soft, breathable, cool, and organic bamboo fiber cover, the ComforTime Pillows consist of high-quality polyester fiber filling in a soft density firmness for plush and cocooning comfort."
  • Best Microfiber Pillow: Amazon Basics Down-Alternative Pillow
    "The Amazon Basics product is a two-piece pillow product that is made from polyester microfiber, for an extra swelling result and a touch very close to down."
  • "Skin-friendly, cooling, and breathable, the Cozy Dream Series Pillows are hotel-grade and are one of the most sold polyester pillows on Amazon."
  • "This is a single pillow of a soft firmness. The pillow has a filling made of polyester fibers that are considered down alternatives."
  • Best Polyester Pillow for Side Sleeper: Bedsure Queen Pillows for Sleeping
    "This has a soft version that is very breathable while the firm version is ideal for side sleepers. The soft model can be chosen by those who sleep on their back."
  • "Soft, fluffy, breathable, and comfortable, this is made of polyester microfibers that are durable and keep their shape even after several washes."

Top 7 Polyester Pillows Review 2021

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Editor’s Choice

Utopia Bedding Gusseted Pillow

Features
  • Cover: cotton blend
  • Filling: polyester
  • Available sizes: Queen and King
  • Density: medium
  • Maintenance: spot clean the pillow or hand wash the fabric with mild detergent
  • Warranty: not specified

More features: pack of two, for side and back sleepers, available in different colors

The Gusseted Pillow Set from Utopia Bedding is filled with fluffy polyester hollow fibers. These absorb moisture and release it again just as quickly, which results in good climatic conditions inside the pillow. A warm, humid climate provides an ideal breeding ground for bacteria, germs, and mites, which is why a pillow should always be breathable and ideally suitable for the washing machine. This gusseted pillow from Utopia Bedding fulfills both conditions.

Available in King and Queen sizes with a cotton blend fabric and a medium density, this is ideal for all types of sleepers, but most especially, back and side sleepers.

    Why are we impressed?
  • The polyester hollow fibers are soft, but still dimensionally stable. In this way, the pillow should optimally support your posture and sleeping comfort - without your head sinking into the material. We recommend this model with a polycotton fiber cover for all types of sleep, but especially for those who sleep on their backs and sides.
    What negatives must you be aware of?
  • We liked that these pillows are ideal for virtually all types of sleepers. However, a certification from OEKO-TEX or CERTIPUR US could have made it a complete product. Without these certifications, it could mean the product had undergone harsh chemical treatments and may not be suitable for people with allergies.
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Features
  • Cover: bamboo fiber
  • Filling: polyester
  • Available sizes: 28 x 18 inches
  • Density: soft
  • Maintenance: machine washable
  • Warranty: not specified

More features: pack of two, ultra-soft, hypoallergenic, organic, breathable, ultra-bouncy, stain-resistant

Covered with a soft, breathable, cool, and organic bamboo fiber cover, the ComforTime Pillows consist of high-quality polyester fiber filling in a soft density firmness for plush and cocooning comfort. It feels soft and ultra-bouncy.

Its excellent quality fibers will guarantee exceptional longevity to this pillow, which you can keep for several years. Its softness is ideal for people with a fairly thin or classic build. It will be a good choice for people who are allergic to down pillows.

    Why did it make our list?
  • This is one of the best polyester fiber pillows for an excellent sleeping experience. It's made of bamboo and polyester for maximum comfort and we liked its exterior, which is a luxurious super soft fabric. It is breathable, antibacterial, hypoallergenic and machine washable in cold water. Its design guarantees excellent head and neck support and spinal alignment while relieving you of uncomfortable pressure points.
    What is not ideal about it?
  • It's too soft for heavy sleepers. We also wish that there is a firmness option for those who want a medium or firm density pillow.
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9.2
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9.6
3
Best Microfiber Pillow

Amazon Basics Down-Alternative Pillow

Features
  • Cover: microfiber
  • Filling: polyester microfiber
  • Available sizes: Standard and King
  • Density: soft and medium
  • Maintenance: not specified
  • Warranty: not specified

More features: for stomach and back sleepers, imported, piping along the edge, OEKO-TEX Standard certified

The Amazon Basics Pillows which are made from polyester microfiber are a great option for those who like the feel and quality of down pillows but can’t put up with their allergens. It’s a pillow set that is designed in two sizes: King and Standard. Pollutant-free and certified, this pillow has been tested by various independent laboratories for its durability, environmental, health, and safety properties as well as possibly harmful substances, and has passed all tests. This is guaranteed by its OEKO-Tex certification seal.

The Amazon Basics product is a two-piece pillow product that is made from polyester microfiber, for an extra swelling result and a touch very close to down. You have a choice between a soft or medium-firm density. Side sleepers can choose the medium firmness while stomach sleepers can choose the soft version.

    Why did it make our list?
  • We liked that this pillow set is composed of perfectly homogeneous and very high-end fibers. The pillow will not clump over washes and use. It will keep a nice volume and can be used for several years.
    What is not ideal about it?
  • The pillow comes with a strong off-gassing smell which a couple of users don't like. It's also not a good choice for people with allergens. Asides from these, it's a top-quality pillow set.
Also Product Ranking:
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Chosen by 9278 people in the past 30 days
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9.3
9.5
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Features
  • Cover: microfiber
  • Filling: polyester
  • Available sizes: Standard, Queen and King
  • Density: soft
  • Maintenance: machine washable at 30°C
  • Warranty: 30-nights trial

More features: pack of two, breathable, cooling, skin-friendly

This is without a doubt one of the most comfortable and easy-to-use polyester/microfiber pillows on the market. Skin-friendly, cooling, and breathable, the Cozy Dream Series Pillows are hotel-grade and are one of the most sold polyester pillows on Amazon. Using this pillow feels like sleeping on a cloud, according to sleepers who have given this a try.

Unlike other types that lose their goodness and comfort after washing, this one will remain the same. It’s skin-friendly and recommended for people with sensitive skin and those who sleep hot at night. COZSINOOR recommends this pillow set for all sleeping positions.

    What are our favorite features?
  • We love its exterior that feels so soft and warm on the skin. It also adapts very well to the head, neck, shoulders, and back and ensures that the user feels very comfortable. The 100% washable microfiber cover provides better air circulation. With a washable pillowcase, it stays cool, dissipates heat, and adapts to head temperatures.
    What could be better?
  • A medium-density version could have been made especially for those who like sleeping on their sides.
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9.3
Features
  • Cover: polyester blend
  • Filling: polyester down alternative
  • Available sizes: Queen
  • Density: soft
  • Maintenance: machine washable
  • Warranty: not specified

More features: vacuum packing

This is a single pillow of a soft firmness. The pillow has a filling made of polyester fibers that are considered down alternatives. Its hollow fiber filling and down touch offers all the necessary comfort to sleep on your side or your back. The pillow has a soft touch to guarantee maximum comfort during all hours of rest.

Fluffy and soft, this is a pillow product designed for home and hotel use. Made of 100 percent polyester fiber and covered with a polyester blend cover, this product is ideal for use in spring, summer, autumn, and winter.

    Why are we impressed?
  • We liked how soft and comfortable the pillow is. In addition, the cover is completely machine washable, to further ensure hygiene. In summary, it can be washed; it is soft and comfortable, and has good fluff.
    What negatives must you be aware of?
  • The product is vacuum-packed and you should therefore not be surprised if you're greeted by some off-gassing smell which should dissipate within the first day. Some users advise that new buyers wait for three days before using it so it can be properly aerated.
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 3413 people in the past 30 days
9.0
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.5
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.9
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.6
9.0
6
Best Polyester Pillow for Side Sleeper

Bedsure Queen Pillows for Sleeping

Features
  • Cover: brushed microfiber
  • Filling: polyester down alternative
  • Available sizes: Standard, Queen and King
  • Density: soft and firm
  • Maintenance: machine washable with tumble dry low
  • Warranty: not specified

More features: pack of two, hypoallergenic, for side and back sleepers, no-shift construction

The Bedsure Queen Pillows are the firmest in our review. Asides from the firm pillow version, the Bedsure product also has a soft version and you can choose from three sizes: Standard, Queen, and King. The pillow is OEKO-Tex certified. This means it meets all quality requirements and is guaranteed to be free of harmful substances such as mercury, lead, and other heavy metals and free of formaldehyde, which is often used to kill germs in the manufacture of pillows.

The soft version is very breathable while the firm pillow is ideal for side sleepers. The very firm support of the pillow is also greatly appreciated when reading or watching TV in bed. The soft model can be chosen by those who sleep on their back.

    Why did it make our list?
  • As you can see from the product images, this pillow offers an exceptional loft and you will no longer need to stack your pillows to have good support for your neck. We think it's the best polyester fiber pillow for side sleepers. Those who like sleeping on their back will also like the soft version.
    What is not ideal about it?
  • While two density versions are great for those who sleep on their backs and sides, we think it would be great if a version for stomach sleepers was also made.
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 7318 people in the past 30 days
8.8
Customer Feedback
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Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.3
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.4
8.8
Features
  • Cover: polyester
  • Filling: polyester microfiber
  • Available sizes: 20 x 54 inches
  • Density: soft
  • Maintenance: machine washable
  • Warranty: not specified

More features: breathable, keeps its shape, hypoallergenic, suitable for all sleepers

DOWNCOOL Premium Pillow is a large rectangular pillow type that is machine washable. Soft, fluffy, breathable, and comfortable, this is made of polyester microfibers that are durable and keep their shape even after several washes. It’s a large pillow that measures 20 by 54 inches. It comes at a fantastic price and is extremely comfortable.

This is a pillow that has a soft fiber filling, which recovers quickly, returning to its initial shape. It’s suitable for all types of sleepers. People with large body build will find this very comfortable. It’s most suitable for side and back sleepers. Pregnant sleepers will also find it most comfortable due to its weight retention. It’s a good option for snorers and those who wake with pains.

    What makes it stand out?
  • We liked the durability of the pillow. It has a polyester cover, is durable, and will keep its shape even after several washes. The pillow inserts can be removed and air dried while the polyester case can be washed in the washing machine.
    Which disadvantages must you keep in mind?
  • The pillow is not ideal for those looking for a hard pillow. It can get extremely flat depending on the weight of the user.

Things to Consider

Did you know that choosing the right pillow has a significant impact on your wellbeing? If the pillow is too soft or too hard, too high or too flat, and does not correspond to your sleeping habits, this leads to an unnaturally curved posture and the associated tension, headaches, and other orthopedic problems. The other way around, choosing the right pillow can reduce the symptoms just mentioned.
You get pillows in different sizes, heights, and with different fillings. Each of them has different properties and is better or worse suited for back, stomach, side, or mixed sleepers. In this section, we’ll tell you how to choose a polyester pillow and tell you, its advantages.

Advantages of Polyester Pillows

You can find polyester pillows in different versions. However, in general, polyester fibers are inexpensive synthetic fillers that are nonetheless equipped with good properties. However, this only applies to siliconized polyester balls. They are easy to maintain and you will notice they will retain their quality even after several cleaning in the washing machine.

Due to the cavities between the balls of the polyester, these are particularly breathable, and are suitable for the washing machine and usually also for the dryer at higher temperatures.

This makes pillows of this type particularly great for allergy sufferers since dust mites and bacteria usually cannot survive temperatures above 60 degrees Celsius. The polyester fiber is cheap and easy to care for, dimensionally stable, and ideal for side sleepers who always have to and can drape the pillow accordingly.

However, it can become a real mite nest because it does not ventilate well and retains moisture. Finally, it keeps you very warm and retains the odors of perspiration, which is why it is recommended to wash it regularly. Below are the pros and cons of polyester pillows you should consider before going ahead.

Pros

  • Available for a low purchase price
  • Soft and fluffy
  • Particularly breathable
  • Easy to care for
  • Hygienic, as it is usually machine-washable at high temperatures
  • Mostly suitable for the dryer
  • Ideal for allergy sufferers as they are mostly mite-resistant
  • The filling quantity can be individually adjusted in many models
  • Suitable for every type of sleep

Cons

  • Cheap models usually do not have a long service life
  • They are not natural fibers
  • Can make you sleep warm

Important Features

7 Best Polyester Pillows - Soft and Smooth

From the cover to the filling, sizes, density, maintenance, among other criteria, we will see what features make a polyester fiber good or bad quality.

Cover

The cover of a pillow plays a role in sleeping comfort, although it does not affect the support provided by the pillow itself. There are three fibers used to make a covering: cotton, bamboo, and polyester/microfiber.

  1. Cotton covers: These are pleasantly breathable and are cool. Cotton is a natural material and will be great for people that are prone to allergens. Like polyester, they are easy to wash in the machine.
  2. Polyester covers: It is very popular for its low cost and the natural hypoallergenic of this synthetic material, but the other side of the coin is a much lower breathability than natural fabrics, therefore a greater sensation of warmth during sleep. However, they are machine washable and like the DOWNCOOL Premium Pillow, you can machine-wash them.
  3. Bamboo covers: The use of bamboo fiber for the realization of the covering of a cushion deserves a separate mention. This type of fabric is recently introduced and has all the advantages of natural yarns (breathability and comfort) combined with the natural antibacterial property characteristic of bamboo. The ComforTime Pillows have bamboo covers and they are highly appreciated for their breathability, coolness, and hypoallergenicity.

Tip for allergy sufferers: If you suffer from allergies, please make sure that your new pillow has been tested for harmful substances and has the Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certificate or the CERTIPUR US certification seal. The pillow should also be washable at around 40 to 60 degrees Celsius, as should the cover.

Filling

Composed of polyester fibers or microfibers, the fillings should be hypoallergenic. Polyester fillings are the most present in the market for synthetic pillows. This pillow filling is particularly appreciated for the lightness it offers. Several types of polyester fillings exist:

  • Low-end polyester pillows: They are made of classic polyester fibers which flatten out quite quickly, and form a fairly heterogeneous filling. The comfort level of these pillows is rather low.
  • Mid-range polyester pillows: They are made of hollow fibers to allow air to pass through the filling.
  • High-end polyester pillows: They are formed from silicone hollow fibers. The fibers slide over each other to form a homogeneous pillow filling and offer you a very high level of comfort.

The silicone hollow fiber pillows are breathable and are therefore perfectly suited to those who suffer from night sweats. Besides, it is essential to note that this pillow filling can offer you light and soft comfort. But don’t panic: it can also offer semi-firm or even firm comfort! Whatever level of firmness you are looking for, then these pillows have the solution.

Available sizes and shapes

7 Best Polyester Pillows - Soft and Smooth

Before you start thinking about getting a pillow, you need to make sure it’s the right size. If it’s too big for the bed, the edges will hang over the side of the mattress or bed. Due to the added stress and pressure, they are very likely to wear out faster on the side edges. It is always crucial that you first determine the correct size before purchasing.

You can also base your decision on the current pillows you are using. However, you’ll have to choose from King, Queen, and Standard sizes. The COZSINOOR Cozy Dream Series and Bedsure Queen Pillows have all these common sizes.

You have many options regarding the shape. The most common standard shape is square and measures 80 x 80 centimeters. However, with this size, your shoulders are usually also on the pillow, which can impair a healthy and natural posture. This is why narrower pillows measuring 40 x 80 centimeters are now becoming popular.

If you like to crumple your pillow as a side sleeper, a pillow measuring 80 x 80 centimeters is perfectly fine. It just shouldn’t be too hard. As a back sleeper, a pillow measuring 40 x 80 centimeters would be more recommendable.

Density

There is no universal rating scale for the hardness or support offered by a pillow, but manufacturers almost always use a descriptive scale of three grades: firm, medium, and soft support or high, medium, or low hardness. The filling of a pillow affects the hardness. If you like to sleep on your back, a soft pillow-like the DOWNCOOL Premium or Edow Luxury Pillow will be suitable for you. Side sleepers will like medium to firm density pillows.

Maintenance

For a healthy and hygienic sleep, your pillow requires a little attention at regular intervals. Regular cleaning of the pillow and covers is essential, especially if you are prone to allergies. So, change your pillowcases preferably once a week, and wash them at around 40 to 60 degrees celsius. If the pillow itself is suitable for the washing machine, wash it about every 3 to 4 months. The pillow must be completely dry before the next use, if possible, in the tumble dryer.

Maintenance tip: Add some clean tennis balls when you tumble dry. These puff up the fibers nicely when drying, bring them back to their original volume, and make the pillow fluffy and soft again.

Warranty

Many brands like to give users a way of reassuring them that their products are of good quality and that they are as advertised. Protecting against manufacturing defects, some pillows come with a 1 to 5 years warranty while some will only come with a 100% satisfaction guarantee in the form of a sleep trial which can range from 30 to 180 nights.

What type of sleeper are you?

7 Best Polyester Pillows - Soft and Smooth

Some manufacturers state that their pillows are suitable for side sleepers, stomach sleepers, or back sleepers Trusted Source Choosing the Best Sleep Position | Johns Hopkins Medicine Could one sleep position be better than another? A Johns Hopkins expert explains when and why position matters. www.hopkinsmedicine.org . Let’s see what’s best for you.

  • Side sleeper

Most people prefer to sleep on the right or left side of their bodies. This sleeping position creates a gap between your shoulder and your neck, which the pillow has to fill to support a straight posture. Your spine, cervical spine, and head should be in a straight line. If your head bends or you overextend it, it can lead to unpleasant complaints in the medium and long term – including tension, headaches, and other orthopedic complaints.

As a side sleeper, you have various options. A popular variant Trusted Source Sleep positions and nocturnal body movements based on free-living accelerometer recordings: association with demographics, lifestyle, and insomnia symptoms www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov is the so-called side sleeper pillow. This is a pillow that is up to 190 centimeters long and not only placed under your head but also between your legs. Because when you sleep on your side, not only does your cervical spine buckle but your pelvis or hips as well. Therefore, many people like to put the duvet or pillow between their knees for stabilization. The side sleeper pillow fulfills both. It’s a pillow and you can put it between your knees at the same time.

The pillow should not be too soft, as it then does not offer sufficient support. It is best to have a second person help you measure the height of the gap or triangle between your head and shoulder while you are lying down.

  • Back sleeper

If you sleep on your back, the pillow must support and relieve the bend between the back of your head and the shoulder area. Flat pillows or special neck support pillows are best for this. The pillow must not be too high as it can cause your cervical spine to overstretch. If you sleep on your stomach, turn your head to the side while lying down, which is already a strain on your spine. Ensure your pillow is not too high. This would further increase the load and cause further tension. Your pillow should be particularly flat, which is why soft polyester pillows and those made from visco or gel foam are best suited.

  • Mixed sleepers

Mixed sleepers should base their choice of pillow on all of the above. Make sure that the choice of pillow is based on the firmness of your mattress. The harder it is, the higher your pillow should be. As an allergy sufferer, you have to pay attention to a few points when buying a pillow. The cover of the pillow and the pillow itself should be suitable for the washing machine at least 40 degrees Celsius, or even better at 60 degrees Celsius. Bacteria and mites are destroyed from a temperature of 60 degrees Celsius. Pillows with a hollow fiber filling can usually be put completely in the washing machine and are therefore particularly recommended.

FAQ

Are polyester pillows hypoallergenic?

Polyester pillows have hypoallergenic polyester fillings, according to Tuck Sleep. And when combined with an organic 100% cotton or bamboo cover, they are more hypoallergenic. However, even though they are mostly hypoallergenic, the material can attract dust mites which can be irritating for people with allergens or sensitive skin.

Can you dry clean polyester pillows?

Polyester pillows can be easily washed in the washing machine up to around 40 degrees Celsius. However, they should be air-dried on the line.

Are polyester pillows safe for asthma sufferers?

Studies have shown that synthetic pillows such as polyester pillows harbor more dust mites than feather pillows.  So, they may be a risk factor for severe asthma patients.

Our verdict

Our Editor’s Choice is the Utopia Bedding Gusseted Pillow. Rated 9.9 by our experts, we liked the product as it is filled with fluffy polyester hollow fibers. It’s available in King and Queen sizes with a cotton blend fabric and a medium density.

Those looking for a Premium Pick will like the ComforTime Bamboo Pillows. Rated 9.8/10, it is covered with a soft, breathable, cool, and organic bamboo fiber cover. The ComforTime Pillows consist of high-quality polyester fiber filling in a soft density firmness for plush and cocooning comfort. It feels soft and ultra-bouncy.

The best microfiber pillows are the Amazon Basics Pillows. The set is a two-piece pillow product that is made from polyester microfiber, for an extra swelling result and a touch very close to down. You have a choice between a soft or medium firm density.

References

1.
Choosing the Best Sleep Position | Johns Hopkins Medicine
Could one sleep position be better than another? A Johns Hopkins expert explains when and why position matters.
2.
Sleep positions and nocturnal body movements based on free-living accelerometer recordings: association with demographics, lifestyle, and insomnia symptoms
9,9
Total Score
Utopia Bedding Gusseted Pillow - Editor’s Choice
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