Skip to Content

10 Best Pillows for a Heavy Head

Tired of buying pillows from Amazon and returning them back after using them for a couple of nights? Are you struggling to find the perfect fit for your heavy head?

My husband had the same issue for quite a long time. Finally, he agreed to let me do research, and since I know a thing or two about pillows I promised that he won't be dissapointed.

Below is a list of 10 pillows that work for people who seem to squish any pillow into a flat pancake.

But, first here are my top picks:

Top Picks

BEST OVERALL

PLX Shredded Memory Foam Bed Pillow

PLX Shredded Memory
Foam Bed Pillow

Brand PLX
Fill Material Memory Foam
Fabric Type 60% Polyester / 40% Bamboo Rayon

BUDGET OPTION

Amazon Basics Down Alternative Pillow

Amazon Basics
Down Alternative Pillow

Brand Amazon Basics
Fill Material Microfiber
Fabric
Type
100% Polyester

10 Best Pillows For A Heavy Head

PLX Pillows Shredded Memory Foam Bed

PLX Pillows Shredded Memory Foam Bed

PLX pillows have been designed as the best memory foam for sleeping.

It is made from shredded memory foam technology to keep you cool throughout the night. The breathable cover keeps your pillow dry and provide maximum comfort.

They are also a great alternative to down and latex pillows. Good thing, the covers are washable, wherein each pillow is made from 60% polyester and 40% viscous that is made from bamboo.

These pillows are also medicinal since they can provide relief from several sleeping issues like snoring, insomnia, migraines, back pain, allergies, and the likes.

They are also ideal for different sleeping styles such as side sleepers, back sleepers, and stomach sleepers.

This memory foam conforms to the shape of your head and body that keeps the spinal column in your neck and back aligned properly.

These cooling pillows never go flat, once they are fully expanded, each pillow can measure around 28 x 17 x 8. They are great for those who like soft or firm pillows.

The cases are equipped with moisture-wicking to keep the pillow dry and fresh while you are sleeping. They are also completely breathable that helps you stay cool throughout the night.

Memory foam pillows are great for those who love soft or firm pillows. They come with a FULL 10-year warranty.

Pros:

  • Comfortable and can keep its shape
  • Covers are machine washable
  • Comes with a 10-year full warranty

Cons:

  • A bit on a high end (expected for memory foam pillows)

Amazon Basics Down Alternative Bed Pillow

Amazon Basics Down Alternative Bed Pillow

To get the most of your money, you can snag this set of two pillows from Amazon's own brand for a portion of the cost of other individual pillows.

The polyester down-alternative fill washed well, making it a solid choice for people with allergies, which are constantly needed to clean their bedding.

This variation comes with a soft density, so it feels plush, making it ideal for almost every type of sleeper. This pillow is also perfect for kids who need a lower pillow to match their frames.

These pillows are made from a 100% microfiber shell that provides a smooth finish and softness.

The pillow's shell comes with an extremely soft hand feel with piping around the outer edge for added reinforcement. It also comes in a vacuum-sealed pack that allows 24 hours to decompress.

Unlike other pillows made from down feathers that can trigger allergies and are difficult to clean. The pillow is also available in down-alternative fill to give you a more comfy feel.

Besides, the pillow is made in OEKO-TEX Standard certified factory, an independent certification system that ensures textiles meet high safety and environmental standards.

If you are not satisfied with the quality of the pillows, no worries you are backed by Amazon with a limited one-year warranty.

Pros:

  • Promotes proper head, neck, shoulder, and spine alignment
  • Perfectly made for sleepers that love to move around
  • Edge-o-edge neck support
  • Good value for the money

Cons:

  • Not stated if pillow can be machine washed

Dream Rite Shredded Hypoallergenic Memory Foam

Dream Rite Shredded Hypoallergenic Memory Foam

Made from 80% shredded memory foam and 20% polyester fiber, this pillow provides a much more sensual and personal night of deep sleep.

It gives users the ability to sleep for a prolonged period of time without even worrying about aches and pains. It provides support for the neck, back, head, and shoulder.

You can now adjust the filling depending on your comfort level, wherein you can remove or add filling to allow users for a more custom and unique sleeping experience.

You can take as much foam filling you need and enjoy a softer pillow. Whether you prefer a soft or firm pillow, this pillow is for you.

The pillow is made from premium fabrics where you can stay cool and breathable throughout the night. The soft material and memory foam will mold to your body, giving you the necessary support and level of firmness you need.

This pillow is also naturally hypoallergenic, providing its users a high-quality and safe night of sleep.

Both the zipper cover and the pillow itself are machine washable, thus making cleaning easy and less hassle. They offer a one year warranty to protect their consumers against product defects.

Pros:

  • You can customize the firmness
  • Affordable compared to other models
  • Offers one-year warranty

Cons:

  • May have an odor from shipping

DreamNorth Premium Gel Pillow Loft

DreamNorth Premium Gel Pillow Loft

This luxurious pillow from DreamNorth is made from poly gel-filled fiber to ensure it can deliver maximum comfort to its users regardless of sleeping position.

The cover is made from 100% cotton fabric material so that it stays soft, breathable, and dry. The pillow is also machine-washable to maintain its reusability and fresh appearance.

This pillow is also great for individuals with allergies, asthma, and other respiratory difficulties because it is naturally hypoallergenic.

Although it does not look like the typical pillow, all back sleepers love this pillow for being supportive and its ability to retain its shape after use.

The pillow also features a polymer grid that is heavy to lift but can cradle your head and shoulder when sleeping on your back.

The pillow is available in three different sizes: Standard, Queen, and King.

It has a striped design to give a clean and polished look. It also offers excellent neck support to keep your head and neck aligned with your spine for the most comfortable sleeping position.

On top of this, the manufacturer offers one year warranty period to protect the buyers from product defects. Make sure to contact their customer support team for assistance.

Pros:

  • Offers the best value for the money
  • Supportive yet plushy to give the ultimate comfort
  • Ideal for multiple sleeping positions

Cons:

  • Some users said that they felt warm after sleeping on it

Oubonun Premium Adjustable Loft Quilted Pillow

Oubonun Premium Adjustable Loft Quilted Pillow

This pillow is fully adjustable wherein you can adjust the loft of the adjustable pillow to the best support and comfort level that suits your needs.

It promotes an aligned spine for any sleeper whether you are a back sleeper, side sleeper, or a stomach sleeper that needs more or less loft.

Also, the pillow comes with 100% cotton that is breathable and hypoallergenic, giving you an extra comfy sleeping experience. Moreover, these pillows are easy to maintain and clean.

These pillows are best for adults that provide support for the neck, knee, shoulder, and legs.

It will give you a hug-like feeling as it reduces restlessness while turning and tossing. Even pregnant women can find comfort and relief from this pillow because it can reduce strain on the back and abdomen while it can also help in nursing.

When you open the vacuum bag, the pillow will go back to its shape in a matter of seconds, then you can press, squeeze, and fold it to get it back to its normal full fluffy shape.

Please allow up to 48 hours for the pillow to expand to its full shape. The pillow is also equipped with a hidden zipper wherein you can adjust the firmness to the best level of support and comfort for you.

The body pillow is stuffed with hypoallergenic polyester fiber to protect your family from dust and pollen.

Pros:

  • Soft and plushy
  • It is machine washable
  • Adjustable firmness

Cons:

  • Some users wished it was a bit firmer

Clara Clark Shredded Memory Foam Pillow

Clara Clark Shredded Memory Foam Pillow

If you want to treat yourself to a relaxing and refreshing good night's sleep, then sleep on the most comfortable bamboo shredded memory foam pillow of Clara Clark.

This pillow is designed for your maximum comfort since it is made from 100% shredded memory foam that aims to support your neck, head, and shoulders, offering you a comfortable experience.

Its soothing shape can provide relief and helps you get a night of deep sleep.

This ergonomic memory foam is ideal in preventing migraines, neck pain, back pain, and even snoring because it enhances your posture and keeps every part of your upper body perfectly aligned.

Indulge yourself in the luxurious feel of sleeping in a soft, breathable, and therapeutic memory foam pillow. It comes with a bamboo zippered cover and innovative air-flow technology that can allow you to sleep like an angel.

If you notice it has a rectangular shape design to promote a healthy sleeping pattern, wherein it fits itself smoothly to every curve of your head and neck while providing unparalleled support and protection.

Once you open the bag, the pillows will immediately go back to their original shape and volume without any hassle. So if you are looking for a great gift for your family and friends, then this is the perfect gift.

Pros:

  • Comfortable to sleep on
  • Comes with a hassle-free 100% refund guarantee
  • Keeps its shapes well

Cons:

  • A bit on a high end

COZSINOOR Hotel Collection Pillow

COZSINOOR Hotel Collection Pillow

This pillow is made from 100% hypoallergenic cotton with ultra-plush down alternative filling.

It mimics the feel of real goose down. The pillow provides perfectly balanced comfort and support to keep your spine aligned and to improve the quality of sleep.

The pillow is encased in soft, luxurious organic sateen cotton with a high thread count to protect the pillow.

The soft, breathable cover can wick moisture and allow you to sleep cool, providing you a comfortable sleeping experience throughout the night.

The pillow is all-natural, wherein you can wake up fresh. It comes from import down alternative hollow fiberfill that allows air to circulate naturally within the pillow.

And this provides a fluffy, cloud-like feeling. It maintains the neck and head between the natural curve without causing too much pressure from the neck and alleviating stiffness on the shoulder.

Furthermore, it is machine-washable and always stay fluffy. It has an ideal balance between soft and comfortable and steady support to get the most restful sleep you ever experience.

This pillow is constructed in a controlled environment to ensure premium quality products that are guaranteed safe for you and your loved ones.

Pros:

  • The cover is removable and machine washable
  • The firmness level is customizable
  • Great for most sleeping positions

Cons:

  • Might emit a slight odor during the first week of use

UTTU Sandwich Pillow Queen Size

UTTU Sandwich Adjustable Memory Foam Pillow

No one wants to experience waking up with heavy head, shoulder pain, and neck pain.

But with this pillow from UTTU, can help you set aside the pain and catch enough Zzzs.

No matter what kind of sleeping position you like, this pillow's adjustable height design allows you to customize firmness levels depending on your preference.

You can remove the middle layer and add more to get the comfort you need on your back, neck, or stomach.

The top of this pillow has a bamboo cover made from 60% polyester and 40% bamboo-made cover, providing a cool night's sleep. It is constructed with UTTU DYNAMIC FOAM that aims to provide great relief.

It will not lose its shape and conform to the natural curve of your body for optimal support. Thus, it is very good in minimizing neck pain, decrease shoulder stiffness, and increase proper spine alignment.

If you have allergies, the pillow works great for your sleeping needs. It is made from hypoallergenic materials so you will not suffer from congestion while you are sleeping.

The pillow meets compliance regulations for CertiPUR-US and OEKO-TEX, meaning it does not contain formaldehyde or heavy materials.

The pillow has a spot for easy cleaning, just remove the cover and you can place it in the wash for hassle-free laundering.

Pros:

  • Perfect for most sleeping positions
  • Memory foam alleviates pain and provides support in the spine
  • Comes with a five-year warranty for quality-related issues

Cons:

  • A bit on a high end

Beckham Hotel Collection Gel Pillow

Beckham Hotel Collection Gel Pillow

If you're a Goldilocks type of pillow-searcher, aiming for not too soft, or not too firm, kind of pillow is quite challenging – just searching somewhere right in the middle.

Then, Beckham Hotel Collection Gel Pillow is a safe choice.

This pillow guarantees you medium-level support, so you'll avoid any strain and pressure while enjoying the cushion and comfort for a good night's sleep.

Well, thanks to the poly-gel fiber blend filling. Moreover, you'll be getting two pillows at an affordable price, so whether it's a pillow for your partner, your pet, or just an extra pillow yourself, your bed will be set.

Unlike other kinds of pillows, the Beckham Hotel Collection's gel design ensures a flexible and comfy level of support, without resulting in any weird or deformed forms that often start to change in shape after just a couple of weeks of laying your head down on the pillow.

Also, it features dust mite and mildew resistant materials that are allergen and chemical-free, suitable for those with sensitivities since they can now breathe easier.

When spills happen or it's time to get them cleaned, you can toss them in the washer since they're safely machine washable.

The manufacturer offers a 30-day satisfaction guarantee, so if you are unsatisfied with the pillow, contact their customer support team to get a full refund.

Pros:

  • Easy to clean
  • Keeps its shape and form
  • Ideal for most types of sleeping positions
  • Offer great value for the money

Cons:

  • Requires fluffing up after being compressed in the shipping

FIESAND Shredded Memory Foam Pillow

FIESAND Shredded Memory Foam Pillow

This pillow is designed to be firm to fill the space and allow you to sleep more comfortably at night.

It can help you achieve the right individual balance between comfort and support, perfect for the neck and shoulder. The bed pillow can stay fluffy and firm since it would go back to the original shape after sleep.

With the activated charcoal in the pillow, ensure that the pillow will remain deodorized throughout the night.

It does not only mean your pillow won't get odorous, but it has a cooling memory foam to keep you from overheating.

Besides, the double layer soft pillow is made from breathable polyester on the inside for ventilation and a bamboo silky rayon that is blended on the outside for softness to keep you cool from feeling sweaty.

All bed pillows come with a 10-year warranty period and a free 100-day trial to ensure that customers love the quality of the pillow.

Pros:

  • Comes with a 100-night trial
  • Contains activated charcoal to keep its odor
  • Easy to clean

Cons:

  • Might not be firm enough for certain people

How To Pick Perfect Pillow for Heavy Head

Let's start from square one, at the end of the day, your pillow's major function is to support you in different sleeping position throughout the day.

When I say support, it does not end with soft and cozy. The right pillow should keep your head, neck, and spine in neutral alignment, and must support the natural curvature of the spine.

Keeping the spine in a neutral position does not only alleviate neck pain but also relieves pressure throughout the body.

Now here is the tricky part, each sleeping position needs a different type of pillow to maintain a healthy posture. There's a lot more to consider when you are on the hunt for the perfect pillow.

For Back Sleepers

To maintain a healthy posture, back sleepers need a pillow that has a medium loft and a medium firmness. Besides, back sleepers might find pillows with materials that conform to the pressure of heavy head are beneficial.

You might be wondering why do back sleepers need a pillow with medium loft and firmness? Well, here is the rationale behind it.

Medium Loft

A medium loft helps in relieving pressure in the neck and shoulders by providing a nice, cushy buffer between you and the mattress. If the pillow is too lofty, your head will be tilted upward. If it is not lofty enough, you are pretty much lying flat on the mattress.

Medium firmness

A medium firmness will keep the head supported enough to be aligned with the spine and make sure that the pillow will not be flattened easily over the course of the night. If the pillow is too soft, it is likely to lose its shape under the weight of your head.

Conform to pressure

Materials that are designed to conform to pressure can serve in keeping the head feeling comfortably cradled, holding in neutral alignment with the neck.

Also, pillows that feature a tufted top can provide extra cushion where you can rest your temple

Now that we have the ideal construction of the pillow, here are some special features that might help to narrow down your choices. Keep in mind that these features are not mandatory, but the more you know about the world, the better you'll get find the perfect fit.

Customizable support

Bedding designs are increasingly upgrading to allow sleepers to meet their specific needs.

For example, many pillows come with an adjustable fill, meaning you can unzip the cover fabric and then manipulate the internal stuffing until you found the feel and support that suits your body.

This perfect for combination sleepers who are still figuring out what their perfect sleep style is.

Cooling qualities

Hot sleepers should prefer pillows with cooling properties.

On the other hand, sleepers who want their whole pillow to feel icy-crisp should aim for pillows made from cool yarn or phase change material woven into the fabric.

This kind of material is designed to make the pillow feel like it is been put in the refrigerator, which is very cool to touch.

Bouncy support

Another thing to think about is the kind of support you want to feel from the pillow.

So, if you are looking for a lighter feel and a bouncy response to pressure; look for pillows filled with Dunlop or Talalay Latex. These materials provide springy support.

For Side Sleepers

To maintain a neutral spine and healthy posture, side sleepers need a pillow that has a high loft and firmer support. Side sleepers may also find fluffy materials like Kapok or shapeable materials like down are known useful for their lateral position. Here are the reasons why:

High Loft

A pillow with a taller profile is going to prop your head so that is in line with your spine. In addition, a lofty pillow will relieve pressure in your shoulder and ensures that it is not bearing the brunt of your body's weight.

If you feel like your shoulder is deeply digging into the mattress, your pillow might not be lofty enough.

Firm support

Pillows with a medium-firm level of support will serve to keep the head and neck in line with the spine throughout the night.

If the pillow is too soft, your pillow will gradually sink over the course of your 40 winks, throwing the spine out of neutral alignment.

Fluffy and shapeable

Firmer pillows can take some time to get used to it. Therefore, look for fluffy materials like Kapok, down, or down-alternatives.

These materials are pretty soft on their own, so make sure your pillow is amply stuffed, and the loft is high.

But looking for a pillow that can be fluffed into a higher loft is beneficial for side sleepers with broader shoulders.

Moreover, pillows can be shaped, allowing you to reach one arm beneath the pillow in a cozy embrace is loved by many side sleepers.

So, if you want to check out a wide range of pillow options, here are some other features you might want to check out.

Moisture-wicking

Just because a pillow is designed to be cooling does not necessarily mean it is designed to be moisture-wicking.

Therefore, if you are going through menopausal or prone to night sweats, look for naturally absorbent fabrics.

Here are the great examples of materials that are not designed to feel cool to the touch, but can wick away moisture while you sleep: Tencel, bamboo, and Polyester.

Natural and Organic

If you have sensitive skin or are prone to breakouts, sticking with pillows made from all-natural materials might be the best way to go.

Organic cotton, natural latex, and cellulosic fibers are all good options for sleepers who look for hypoallergenic and organic materials.

Remember, you don't have to choose between the cover fabric and the internal fill. Many bedding brands exclusively use natural materials to create such quality pillows.

Breathable foam

There are a lot of reasons why memory foam pillow is so popular. Many sleepers cannot get enough of that deep sink and slow response to pressure.

However, the sad thing about memory foam is they tend to trap body heat.

Therefore, look for pillows filled with shredded memory foam instead of one solid piece of foam.

The individual, popcorn-sized shreds can be moved freely within the pillow's cover, allowing much better breathability. This way the pillow can dissipate the body heat, while you are enjoying the classic memory foam feel.

Now you know the features you should look for a pillow both for back and side sleepers, many sleepers switch back and forth between these positions or some sleep on their stomach.

For Stomach Sleepers

When it comes to stomach sleeping, looking for the perfect pillow can be challenging.

In fact, some experts suggest avoiding this position since it tends to position the upper cervical spine at the end-range rotation or extension.

This means you are at greater risk of straining your neck and putting pressure on your stomach or lower back.

Hence, here are some features you should look for stomach sleepers:

Low loft

To maintain a neutral spine alignment, stomach sleepers need a pillow with a low loft.

So, if your pillow's loft is even slightly too high, your head will be craned upward and your whole posture will be out of whack. Remember, your pillow should support the natural curve of your spine.

Soft support

Pillows with soft support provide a cushy buffer between you and the mattress but make sure that your head is not too propped up.

The firmer the pillow, the more likely it will be lifted out of alignment with your spine. This is where soreness begins.

Compressible fill

Pillows that are filled with feathers or down alternatives are ideal for stomach sleepers.

Why?

Well, these materials are easily compressed into a super low loft. Therefore, they are very shapeable that can help stomach sleepers who like to embrace the underside of the pillow instead of lying with their arms at their side.

Looking for a pillow with an adjustable fill is also a bonus since you can decrease the loft as much as you want.

If you are a stomach sleeper and you are unsure you are getting proper support, here are other features, you should consider:

Pillowcase priority

To support certain positions or body types, pillows can come in obtuse shapes or feature deep contours.

Unfortunately, this is not ideal for sleepers who want to dress the pillows with pillowcases. If you got some silky, decorative shams that you've been eager to use, aim for a pillow that advertises a traditional shape.

Conversely, if you don't want to bother with a pillowcase, look for cover fabrics that are known for their hypoallergenic and smooth nature, similar to Tencel or organic cotton.

No animal products

Down is ideal for stomach sleepers because they are shapeable and can be compressed into a very low loft. However, not everybody wants to sleep on materials made from animal products.

So, what to do?

Well, down alternatives like poly gel fiber or feathery like down are made with no animal products involved. This is a bonus for people who prioritize easy wash care since down alternative pillows are usually machine washable.

Conclusion:

In the end of the day, I was able to find the best pillow for my husband's heavy head. He's quite happy with PLX Shredded Memory Foam Bed Pillow.

However, as stated above, if the price is a concern, then an Amazon Basics Pillow can be a good alternative.