Pillows are typically made of a fabric cover or shell that encloses a filler material. The most common materials used for pillow stuffing are:

• Polyester: This is a synthetic material that is the least expensive to manufacture, although it is the most durable, easily washed, and causes few allergic reactions. Polyester pillows can be filled with continuous solid filament polyester or a better grade of polyester called hollofill, which has a hollow core that gives the pillow more loft for a greater period of time than cheaper grade polyester.

• Feathers and Down: Feathers are a moderately priced stuffing, while down is the most expensive. Higher-end pillows may be filled with a combination of goose feathers and down, and that ratio may be varied extensively according to price point (the more down, the more expensive) .

• Memory Foam: This is a type of polyurethane foam that conforms to the shape of the head and helps keep the spine aligned with the rest of the body. Memory foam pillows can be either solid or in clusters, with solid pillows giving more structure and cluster pillows being adjustable. They are one of the latest technologies in pillow stuffing.

• Latex: This is a natural foam obtained from a specific rubber tree sap. Latex foam is very hard to extract and hence is expensive. Latex pillows are known for their responsive contouring, which cushions and supports the sleeper’s head. They can be either solid or in clusters, with solid pillows giving more structure and cluster pillows being adjustable.

• Wool: This is a traditional stuffing that offers great breathability, temperature-regulation, and softness, but it does not provide much support. Over time, pillows filled with wool may flatten out or clump.

• Buckwheat: This is a natural material that is hypoallergenic and breathable. Buckwheat pillows are filled with buckwheat hulls, which can be adjusted to provide the desired level of support. They are a good fit for people with allergies and can provide great comfort.

• Microbeads: These are tiny styrofoam-like beads that contour to the shape of the head, giving firm support. They are not commonly found in traditional sleeping pillows but are popular for travel pillows.

In addition to the above materials, there are also many different types of pillows, including sleeping pillows, special needs pillows, contour pillows, wedge pillows, body pillows, and cervical pillows.