Best Down Alternative Pillows | Hypoallergenic & Luxurious

If you love the fluffy soft feel of a conventional down pillow but are not fond of those skin allergies, you should consider going for down alternative pillows. There is a range of different down alternative options that you can consider. 

So, if you are looking for the best down alternative pillows, we have reviewed some of the top products available. 

What’s the Best Down Alternative Pillow

The Softest and Most Comfortable Down Alternative Pillows

Get the feel of the sinking softness of real down with this vegan alternative. 

Plushbeds brings you a vegan down alternative that feels luxurious and comfortable. This is the best option if you have an ethical concern and don’t want to use any animal-based products on your sleep surfaces. 

These pillows feature ultra-fine filing that doesn’t have down but mimics the airy loft of down. This makes it the best option if you are looking for a down alternative. 

PlushBeds have used microfiber instead of goose down, the lightest down alternative available. These fibers are three times lighter than a strand of hair. 

Microfiber does a pretty fine job in making the pillows much lighter and fluffier. And to add to that, these pillows come with cotton steen covers that are double stitched and have corded piping to make them more durable and long-lasting.

Moreover, you can choose the firmness level between medium and firm. It allows you to stack your bed with the variety you prefer and experience a good night’s sleep. 

But there are other options available on the market that come with adjustable firmness levels. These include the likes of Fern & Willow down alternative pillows and Pillow-Fight Knockout down alternatives pillows, and we will talk about them in just a bit. 

Furthermore, it is available in three sizes, standard, queen, and the king, just like Fern & Willow down alternative pillows. 

Coming at a pretty comfortable price, these pillows will let you sleep on a cloud. 

These bed pillows are available in three different sizes, just like the PlushBeds pillows we have just reviewed and the Bedsure pillows we will discuss in a while. But you can find standard, queen, and king sizes in these pillows. 

However, these pillows only once in a single firmness level which is medium. Therefore, there is no what you can make adjustments to their firmness levels as you can do in the pillows by Fern & Willow and Pillow-Fight. But it also doesn’t come in different firmness options like PlushBeds Cotton Sateen Pillows. 

However, these pillows are certainly budget-friendly if you compare them with the three brands we have just mentioned. Viewstar pillows are closer to the pillows by Bedsure that also fall in the same price category. Therefore, they are much more comparable to Bedsure pillows. 

These pillows are hypoallergenic, and they are OEKO-TEX certified, just like Bedure pillows, and they are of plush fiber that does feel pretty comfortable to sleep on (also check 10 mattresses with great comfort). 

These pillows are ideally suitable for back and side sleepers. But they are not suitable for neck pillows, as is the case with Pillow-Fight Knockout pillows.

They provide you with supportive comfort, and they also have that hotel quality. It means that they won’t lose their shape any time soon.  

 

These pillows are 100 percent breathable and feature premium hotel quality performance. 

Available in three different sizes, including standard, queen, and king, just like PlushBeds, Veiwstar, and Bedsure, Downluxe down alternative pillows have a filling that is a blend of bamboo and polyester. It means that it is highly breathable and lofty. 

The covers are 100 percent cotton, as in the case of PlushBeds and Pillow-Fight Knockout pillows. These pillows are hypoallergenic and are OEKO-TEX certified, just like Viewstar and Bedsure pillows. And it also falls in the same price category. 

These pillows do offer pretty decent support, and they feel pretty soft and comfortable. The bamboo + polyester filling does a pretty fine job when it comes to maintaining the shape and offers good breathability. 

The shape and design of this pillow make it an ideal option for all back, stomach, and side sleepers, as in the case of Your Moon, Fern & Willow, and Pillow-Fight Knockout pillows. So, if you are a combination sleeper, these pillows will work well. 

These pillows are machine washable, and you can easily maintain them to ensure they always look new and clean, just like Fern & Willow and Your Moon down alternative pillows. 

It also means that you can conveniently use them as your regular pillow set in any room you want. And of course, they are great for combination sleepers, so anyone in your family can use them.

These bed pillows are relaxing, breathable, and low price; the perfect combination. 

These bed pillows might be pretty low priced, but you won’t have to compromise on quality, which is why they appear so high on our list. 

These hotel-quality pillows are available in three different sizes, including the king, queen, and standard, just like Downluxe, Your Moon, and others. 

These pillows are suitable for side, back, and stomach sleepers, similar to Your Moon, Bedsure, and Viewstar pillows. These pillows have microfiber filling like PillowFight Knout pillows and Bedsure down alternative pillows. 

One of the best features of these pillows is that they deliver pretty good performance regarding loftiness and breathability. You will be amazed it is close to the original down material, and you won’t have to break your wallet to get it. 

These pillows are machine washable like Downluxe, and you can significantly extend their lifespan if you take proper care of them. It also means you can conveniently use them in your guest room and can also use them in your bedroom. 

These pillows are soft and are great for stomach and back sleepers. 

The down alternative pillows by AmazonBasics are ideally suitable for back and stomach sleepers, unlike the ones by Cozsinoor that are suitable for combination sleepers. 

These pillows are available only in standard and king size, unlike Cozsinoor, Downluxe, and others that are also available in queen size. But these pillows do come in two different firmness options like PlushBeds. Nevertheless. The firmness options available here are soft and medium, unlike the medium and firm that PlushBeds offer. 

These pillows come in a square shape, unlike any other ones on our list. They are mostly rectangular, so if you are looking for a squared one, AmazonBasics is the brand you need to choose for your down-alternative pillows. 

These pillows come with polyester microfiber, and just like Bedsure and others, we will review them in just a bit. And it is also OEKO-TEX certified, just like Downluxe and others on this list. 

But you need to remember that these pillows are pretty plush and soft. So, if you are looking for a firm or medium-firm feel, you need to look elsewhere. 

Cooling, supportive, adjustable filling for back, side, and stomach sleeper 

Now there is no need to use old flat pillows. Choose the Fern & Willow adjustable pillows. These pillows stay supportive and firm, so you don’t need to hit your head with a mattress when you get up in the morning (also check 10 great mattresses). 

Additionally, these pillows are filled with microfiber and covered with pure cotton, just like PlushBed Sateen Down Alternative pillows. And this premium filling makes them super breathable due to poly gel infusion and gives a cooling and comfortable sleep. 

Choose the best one according to your sleeping position. And, PlushBed Sateen Down Alternative pillows are only available in firm and medium firmness. 

You can adjust its filling according to your comfort, and the zippered removable design makes it easy to adjust. All types of sleepers require different support, and these pillows are suitable for the stomach, back, and side sleepers.      

Another advantage of your purchase is that these pillows are machine washable, making cleaning easy. But remember to air dry after washing these pillows. These adjustable pillows are great for occasional gifts. 

Furthermore, these pillows are accessible in three sizes: queen, standard, and queen. Therefore, you can pick according to your bed size. However, Pillow-Fight Alternative pillow is only available in standard and king sizes.

Thus, Fern & Willow pillow is accessible in the most popular size queens. The plush support conforms to your neck and shoulder for comfortable and supportive good night’s sleep. 

Lightweight, cool, supportive, adjustable pillows, especially for neck pain

Your bedding is essential for maximizing your wellness and rest. And the pillows give you a supportive and more comfortable sleep. The Pillow-Fight pillows are filled with signature polyester material, making them airy and lightweight. 

These airy and lightweight pillows keep you calm and cool. Additionally, the synthetic filling is humane and designed for those who prefer light support pillows. These Pillow-Fight pillows are the best option if you are facing neck pain (also check 10 amazing mattresses for scoliosis) because they give incredible support and light bounce.

These alternative pillows are adjustable and suitable for front, side, and back sleepers. It is also available in standard and king sizes. So, you can pick the right size for your comfort. It comes with a zippered design from where you can fill and remove its polyester filling according to your sleeping position.   

The company uses high-quality down-alternative filling that is higher density than standard down-alternative and undergoes pillows. These Pillow-Fight premium pillows give you a silky-smooth feeling when lying on the pillow.  

However, the queen size is the most famous in bedding accessories, and the Pillow-fight is not offering the queen size. If you want queen-size down-alternative pillows, you can pick one of the PlushBed Sateen Down Alternative, Viewstar Bed Pillows, and Fern & Willow. Both are available in three sizes standard, queen, and king. 

 Additionally, the cover of these pillows comes with cotton sateen, and double-stitched piping increases its beauty like the PlushBed Sateen Down Alternative pillows.

Premium fibre-filled pillow available in firm and soft, suitable for side and back sleepers

The Bedsure down alternative pillows are made from 100% fiber polyester that presents soft and airy pillows. This pillow gives you a comfortable sleep, like sleeping on a cloud. 

These pillows are certified by OEKO–TEX like Viewstar Down Alternative pillows that make them harmless to humans. So, you can confidently use it for your children’s room. These pillows are available in three sizes: standard, queen, and king, just like the Viewstar Down Alternative pillows.   

You can purchase the Bedsure down alternative pillows only in soft and firmness according to your comfort. However, if you want a medium firmness in down alternative pillows, you can pick Viewstar pillows. 

Furthermore, these Bedsure pillows are suitable only for back and side sleepers due to their softness and firmness. Consequently, if you are a combination sleeper, you can purchase any from the Fern & Willow pillows and Pillow-Fight Knockout pillows. 

Both give you an adjustable design in the pillow, so you can adjust the firmness according to your sleeping position (also check 10 great mattresses for adjustable bed).  

Apart from all features, Bedsure and Cozsinoor down alternative pillows are the best budget-efficient compared to all the above pillows. These pillows give you a comfortable and supportive sleep throughout the night.

 

Fiber filling, fluffy soft, highly-breathable, suitable for all sleeping positions  

This is one of the best luxurious pillows covered with pure Egyptian cotton. It is expertly tailored for enhancing comfort. Additionally, these pillows are suitable for all types of sleepers, including side, back, and stomach sleepers (also check 10 amazing mattresses for stomach sleepers), just like Cozsinoor bed pillows, Viewstar pillows, and Fern & Willow pillows. 

YOUR MOON soft pillows are made from the plant down 100% fiber. This material is also certified by Oeko–Tex, so it is guaranteed not to be harmful to humans, just like the Downluxe and Bedsure alternative pillows. Both are comfortable, supportive, and safe for children (also check 10 great mattresses fir kids). 

However, YOUR MOON is only available in queen-sized down alternative pillows in white and black colors. So, you can opt according to your wish. And, if you want other sizes in down alternative pillows, you have plenty of options available. 

Those opinions include Fern & Willow, Vewstar, Downluxe, and Bedsure down alternative pillows. All the most popular brands manufacture comfortable and support pillows in 3 sizes. 

Hypoallergenic, cooling, combination sleepers, and perfect for shoulder and headache  

The cover of the Feel & Sense bed pillow is highly breathable due to microfiber stuffing to ensure a cool and comfy night’s sleep. These are made for premium 3D fiber, offering brilliant support for your shoulder, neck, and head. 

Additionally, the filling of each pillow comes with 1000+g microfiber that ensures its durability and bouncy. Finally, it comes with a side band design that ensures the Feel & Sense pillow holds its shape and doesn’t flatten so easily.

The best advantage of using the Feel & Sense down alternative pillows is that the pillowcase comprises 3 layers. The 3 layers include skin-friendly 150gsm fabric, fiber air 100gsm layer, and spunlace 50gsm nonwoven. 

These layers make the pillowcase more breathable, so it is suitable if you sleep hot and sweat while sleeping (also check the best selling cooling mattresses for hot sleepers). On the other hand, it is also suitable for all types of sleeping positions, like  Cozsinoor bed pillows, Fern & Willow pillows, and Viewstar down alternative pillows.

The pillows are also available in all standard, queen, and king sizes, so you can opt as you want. However, many other brands also offer pillows in all sizes, including Dawnluxe, Cozsinoor, Viewstar, Bedsure, Fern & Willow down alternative pillows.  

What is the Best Alternative to Feather Pillows?

Feather pillows feel nice and comfortable but cause some skin allergies. This is especially the case if you have sensitive skin and using animal products causes reactions. 

Feathers pillows adapt pretty well according to your body shape and are highly breathable and lightweight. But aside from allergic reactions, if you have ethical concerns associated with using these products, you can also go for some feather alternatives. 

Here are some feather alternatives that you can go for:

• Kapok: This material looks and feels like cotton and is an organic filling made of seed pods sourced from rainforest trees. 
• Buckwheat hull: Features an outer casing that comes from buckwheat seeds. They conform pretty well according to your body shape, and they also provide exceptional support. 
• Natural rubber latex: Also known as natural shredded rubber or latex, it is a by-product of rubber trees and offers high support and conformance. 
• Thinsulate: Its synthetic fiber is developed by 3M and provides exceptional thermal insulation. 
• Primaloft: It is another quality-down alternative that is made of polyester fiber. 

Are Down Alternative Pillows Worth It?

Of course, not everyone can tolerate feathers or down as this material can cause allergic reactions. You can go for hypoallergenic down choices. 

These alternative options are safer to ensure maximum comfort. And another advantage that they have to offer is that they are pretty economical as well. Furthermore, they are more durable than those cheap quality polyfill pillows. 

So, these alternative options are highly functional and worth it. The difference between the feel of down and down alternatives is not that much. 

Conventional down material tends to feel fluffier, but the budget-friendly down alternative is pretty close to it and is light on your pocket too. 

So, they are pretty close in terms of feel and comfort and are much lighter on your pocket; they are worth your hard-earned money. 

Which is Better, Down or Down Alternative Pillows?

If you are looking for that fluffier feel and comfort in your highest priority, and of course, you don’t have any ethical concerns or allergic reactions, then down is the best option. 

On the other hand, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option and have ethical concerns. Of course, if you don’t want any allergic reactions to using animal products, then down alternatives are the right way to go. 

Down also has the advantage of its alternative options. It’s much loftier compared to its alternatives. And the best thing is that it will not lose its loft over time. Down is also much better in breathability and doesn’t develop any smells over time. 

Down alternatives might not match the original materials 100 percent. Still, it does provide a decent loft and breathability. But it does tend to get slightly mustier and start to smell stale over time. 

However, the down alternative is much softer and plushier than polyesters and is much cheaper than the original down materials. 

What is the Softest Down Alternative?

Wool, cotton, and polyester are all pretty good down alternatives. But you can also go for kapok, buckwheat hulls, and rubber latex. All these down alternatives are pretty good and feel pretty soft.

Some options, such as the Fern & Willow Down Alternative Pillows, also come with a cotton cover. There are some polyester options available like Pillow-Fight Knockout down alternative pillow. Most of these alternatives are pretty affordable than the original down material. 

And, of course, they are not derived from animals, so they don’t cause allergic reactions. Furthermore, these materials are highly breathable and offer decent loft and support. 

Is Down or Down Alternative Better for Hot Sleepers?

If you sleep hot or sweat during your sleep, then you should go for down material. It is highly breathable and is much fluffier. It means that you will feel much more comfortable with it. Down-alternative can trap air and doesn’t need much fiber to provide its fluffiness and warmth. 

It makes the bedding materials lighter and more breathable compared to down alternatives. Of course, down alternatives are also pretty good options for hot sleepers. But down alternatives are much better, provided you don’t have to deal with skin allergies caused by animal products.

Is Down Pillow Filling Toxic?

Not all down pillows fillings are toxic. However, you have to be careful as a potential toxic pillow filling goes down filling if they are derived from non-organic sources. These features might be sprayed with toxic pesticides to keep them clean. 

Moreover, any oil used to hold them together can also be chemical-based. But in some cases, antimicrobial pillows can be toxic too. But in most cases, down is anti-allergic and doesn’t attract bacteria, microbes, or fungi on its own. So on its own, it is a far healthier option. 

What are the pros and cons of down alternative pillows?

Down alternative pillows are a great option for those with allergies to natural down or feathers. The pros of down alternative pillows include:

• Hypoallergenic – good for those with allergies
• More affordable than down pillows
• Easy to maintain and clean
• Long lasting if cared for properly

Some cons to consider:

• May not feel as soft or fluffy as real down
• Can lose loft and flatten over time
• May sleep hotter than down pillows
• Not as durable as high quality down pillows

How do I clean a down alternative pillow?

Most down alternative pillows can be machine washed and dried. Check the care instructions, but generally you can wash in cold water on a gentle cycle. Use a mild detergent and avoid fabric softener. Tumble dry on low and remove promptly to maintain the fluffiness. Avoid high heat in both washing and drying.

You may need to re-fluff the pillows by placing in the dryer with a couple clean tennis balls periodically. Some pillows recommend spot cleaning only, so check the manufacturer’s instructions. Proper care will help down alternative pillows last longer.

Our Recommendation

There are different brands you can consider going for PlushBeds, Fern & Willow, and Pillow-Fight if you are looking for premium quality options. 

But if you want to go for budget-friendly options, you can opt for Bedsure, Downluxe, Viewstar, and AmazonBasics. They are good for regular use, and you can pick suitable options based on your sleep preferences.