If you've ever wondered about the secret behind those dreamy hotel pillows that make you feel like you're sleeping on a cloud, look no further.

From the fluffiest down to the perfect firmness of memory foam, we'll explore the pillows that hotels trust to provide their guests with unparalleled comfort.

Get ready to discover the insider tips on what pillows hotels use to transform your sleep experience - because why shouldn't every night feel like a five-star stay?

What materials are luxury hotel pillows made from?

There are four main types of pillow fillings on the market: down, synthetic, duck or goose feather, and memory foam fillings. They each have their own unique advantages, so you will want to check out our filling guide below to know which is right for you.

  1. Down pillows

Down is generally seen as the luxurious filling choice for pillows, which is why luxury hotels will tend to supply down hotel pillows. 

The most common type is goose down pillows, although duck down pillows are also a potentially cheaper alternative.

Down pillows will trap heat within them, making them an excellent option for use during the colder months. They're also usually paired up with a cotton cover to offer sleepers decent levels of temperature regulation!

Down pillows are usually the best option to bring that luxury hotel feel into your home. However, if you tend to suffer from allergies, you should steer clear of down-filled pillows. 

  1. Synthetic pillows

An excellent down alternative pillow will use synthetic materials, such as hollowfibre and microfibre. One of the most significant advantages of a synthetic pillow, when compared to most pillow fillings, is its versatility. Hollowfibre and microfibre pillows can offer varying levels of support, meaning you aren't stuck to a single filling type if you prefer a softer pillow.

They’re also slightly more affordable than most down options, so they are an excellent choice if you are on a budget. Generally, if you want versatile pillows like those found in hotels, you should check out synthetic pillows.

  1. Feather pillows

Feather pillows are one of the most traditional types of pillows used in the UK. They're reasonably affordable and can offer excellent levels of comfort. A large percentage of luxury hotel pillows will combine both down and feather fillings.

Most feather-filled pillows are incredibly soft and plump, offering you a cloud-like feel to your pillow. They're not the option for you if you prefer support when resting, but if you're looking for a top pillow or just want comfort, goose or duck feather filling is an excellent choice!

Sleepseeker offers duck feather pillows and goose feather pillows for that sumptuously soft premium hotel feel.

  1. Memory foam pillows

Memory foam pillows are rarely used as hotel pillows because they are designed for long-term use. As memory foam will adapt to suit your sleeping style, it’s best used for private use, where only one person will use that pillow.

Many memory foam pillows provide a hotel-quality feel, so don't count memory foam out if you are looking for a top-quality pillow!

What pillows do popular hotel chains actually use?

So, exactly what pillows do hotels use? Across the UK, the top hotel chains use a wide selection of pillows to offer their guests a one-of-a-kind experience. Here are a few of the top hotel chains in the UK and the type of pillow they use in their rooms!

Premier Inn - Synthetic down

Most Premier Inn hotels in the UK opt to use synthetic down hotel pillows. Synthetic down is quickly becoming a popular option in hotel chains across the UK as synthetic down pillows are incredibly soft and hypoallergenic.

Hilton Hotels - Down and synthetic down

Hilton Hotels pillows in the UK will typically use a combination of a down and synthetic down alternative filling. This is the perfect middle ground between the comfort provided by down hotel pillows and the affordability of synthetic down.

Marriott Hotels - Duck feather and down

Duck feather and down pillows have always been the luxurious option, which is why Marriott Hotels use them in all their locations. Feather and down pillows are best suited for anyone who can appreciate a soft hotel pillow that offers decent levels of temperature regulation.

Radisson Hotels - Down

Down is a luxury pillow filling that is the best option for anyone seeking high-quality pillows for their home.

Goose down pillows will almost always offer a great night's sleep and are perfect for hotels wanting to offer softer pillows than synthetic options.

The best hotel pillows to use at home

  1. Snuggledown Ultimate Luxury

The Snuggledown Ultimate Luxury pillow lives up to its name. This hollowfibre pillow offers incredible levels of comfort that are most commonly associated with pillows found in the top luxury hotel chains.

It provides medium support, which is the perfect middle ground for anyone who wants a softer pillow while maintaining a decent firmness level and support. This Ultimate Luxury pillow is also breathable, providing you with high levels of temperature regulation.

If you're in the market for a hotel-style pillow, then the Snuggledown Ultimate Luxury pillow should be on your wishlist!

  1. Slumberdown Duck Feather Pillow

Duck feathers are one of the most premium pillow fillings on the market, and this Slumberdown duck feather pillow is a prime example of why. It offers hotel levels of comfort that will help to prevent sleepless nights.

Perfect for back sleepers due to their medium support level, this pack of two duck feather pillows is sure to impress. The 100% cotton cover is machine washable, so you don't need to worry about hand-washing your pillows when it's time to wash your bedding. The feathers used are also 100% ethically sourced.

  1. Slumberdown Box Edge Firm Support Side Sleeper

The Slumberdown Box Edge Firm Support Pillow is a hollowfibre pillow with firm support that ensures your head and neck stay in just the right position when sleeping.

It’s perfect for side sleepers, as you’ll benefit from the correct alignment of your upper body, which in turn encourages the spine to straighten, helping to reduce everyday aches and pains associated with a pillow that’s not firm enough for side sleeping.

The box-side construction also provides extra layers of support for your shoulders and neck, reducing the chances of aches and pains when waking. And if that isn’t enough, the pillow’s cover is made from 100% breathable cotton that’s soft, cosy and will help you to have a peaceful night’s sleep every night.

  1. Snuggledown Hungarian Goose Down

When it comes to premium pillows, few can compete with the Snuggledown Hungarian Goose Down pillow. This exquisite pillow features a unique 80% goose down 20% goose feather filling to provide nighttime comfort on a whole new level.

The pillow is crafted from all-natural materials, similar to those in the top hotel chains. The filling is encapsulated in a luxurious jacquard cotton cover that is both soft and breathable. This prevents you from overheating during the summer and keeps you warm during the cold winter months.

  1. Slumberdown Feels Like Down

Finding a high-quality down pillow when shopping on a budget can be challenging, as down is usually saved for premium products. Fortunately, the 'Feels Like Down' set of pillows was created for those looking for hotel-like pillows at a very reasonable price.

The 100% hollowfibre filling truly feels like down, so you don't need to worry about spending a fortune for a premium pillow.

As it doesn't use genuine duck or goose feathers, this Slumberdown pillow is also completely hypoallergenic. Allergy sufferers can rejoice as this means no more waking up with a sniffly nose! Bring hotel-quality pillows home without the hefty price tag.

FAQs about UK hotel pillows

What type of pillows do 5-star hotels use?

5-star hotels often opt for a mix of down and feather pillows, providing a perfect balance of forgiving softness and support. The pillow covers are made of premium materials like Egyptian cotton, known for its softness and durability. Some hotels also offer hypoallergenic options to cater to a wider range of preferences. The goal is to create a luxurious sleep experience that ensures guests wake up feeling rested and pampered.

Why do hotel pillows feel so good?

Hotel pillows often feel exceptionally good due to the high-quality materials used in their construction. Many hotels invest in pillows with a mix of down and feathers, providing a soft yet supportive feel.

The pillowcases are typically made of premium cotton, contributing to a smooth and luxurious sensation. Hotels also frequently replace pillows to maintain freshness and cleanliness, ensuring guests experience the utmost comfort.

Where can I find the best hotel pillows in the UK?

Our online store offers a range of high-quality hotel pillows that will provide you with a great night's sleep. You can find a selection of pillow types, from down to feather, so finding one that suits your taste is incredibly easy!