A Guide to Buying Your Perfect Pillow & Pillowcases

How To Choose The Best Pillow For You

The best pillow is the one that suits the way you sleep. Your sleep position, preferred level of support and body temperature can all affect how comfortable a pillow feels night after night. A pillow that is too high, too firm or too soft can place unnecessary strain on your neck and shoulders, while the right pillow should help keep your head, neck and spine comfortably aligned.

What Are The Best Pillow Options? 

1. Down Pillow

Renowned for being light and soft, letting your head sink into the pillow at night. Typically made from the duck or goose fibres rather than the feathers. Like the feather pillow, it might not be right for allergy sufferers.

It's important to bear in mind that allergies are usually caused by low-quality down filling that wasn’t cleaned properly. So if you prefer down, check for down that has been properly washed, like our recycled down pillows, which are de-dusted, sterilised & washed using the latest technologies.

 2. Wool Pillow

Wool is a naturally hypoallergenic option which is resistant to mould and dust mites. Wool is also naturally temperature-regulating, wicking moisture away as you sleep, so you stay cool in summer and warm in winter. 

Wool pillows are typically firmer than down, so if you need more neck support, this a great option.

3. Feather Pillow 

A super comfy, malleable and lightweight option. A great choice for combination sleepers, but with the downside of potential allergies for some people. You might also catch a spike from the tips of the feathers. 

4. Memory Foam Pillow

Memory foam distributes weight more evenly across your head and neck, which is why it is often chosen by people with head or neck pain. They also retain heat, which some find uncomfortable, especially if you're a hot sleeper. Be sure to check for a high-quality memory foam pillow, as some can give off an unpleasant chemical smell. Make sure to do your research before buying. 

5. Polyester Pillow

Polyester might be your preference if you are an allergy sufferer. They are typically much more affordable than natural cotton or down pillows. They can also be treated with harsh chemicals, which can cause other allergies.

How To Choose The Right Pillow Firmness and Height 

Pillow filling is only part of the decision. The height and firmness of your pillow will have a big impact on how supported you feel.

A low-loft pillow is thinner and flatter, making it a better option for stomach sleepers or anyone who prefers a softer, lower feel. A medium-loft pillow offers a more balanced level of support and is often a good choice for back sleepers. A high-loft pillow is thicker and more supportive, which can suit side sleepers who need to fill the gap between their shoulders and heads.

Firmness matters too. Softer pillows are easier to shape and can feel more comfortable if you move around during the night. Firmer pillows offer more structure and support, which can be helpful if you sleep mainly on your side or prefer your head and neck to feel more lifted.

The right pillow should feel comfortable from the moment you lie down. Your neck should not feel tilted upward, dropped too low, or pulled to one side.

Why Your Pillowcase Matters Too

Once you have chosen the right pillow filling, firmness and height, your pillowcase shapes the final feel. It is the part of your bedding that sits closest to your skin, so the fabric, weave and finish can make a real difference to your comfort.

A good pillowcase should feel soft against the face, be breathable throughout the night, and be durable enough to be washed regularly. It should also fit your pillow properly, helping it stay smooth, comfortable, and well-protected.

This is where your pillow becomes part of your wider bedding set. The right pillowcase can tie your bed together visually while making your pillow feel even more comfortable to sleep on.

Choosing The Right Pillowcase

The best pillowcase fabric depends on how you like your bedding to feel. Natural fabrics such as cotton and linen are popular because they are breathable, comfortable and well-suited to regular washing.

• Cotton percale pillowcases from our Crisp & Cool bedding collection are made from 400-thread count GOTS-certified organic cotton. The one-up/one-down weave creates a breathable finish that is ideal for hot sleepers or anyone who prefers that just-laundered feel. In fact, percale pillowcases are known to stay cool, crisp and fresh while being incredibly gentle on your skin. Available in a range of beautiful colours. 

•  Cotton sateen pillowcases from our Soft & Smooth bedding collection are highly breathable but have a softer drape and a more indulgent finish. Made from organic cotton and woven with a silky finish, these pillowcases offer a beautifully smooth finish.

• Another standout option comes from our linen bedding collection. Made exclusively from 100% European flax™ these linen pillowcases are naturally breathable and offer a more textured look and handfeel, softening beautifully over time. They are a great option if you want pillowcases that feel effortless, lived-in and long-lasting. Manufactured with 99% recycled and reused water, they are as good for the environment as they are for you. Our linen pillowcases are also pre-washed to help maintain their colour, softness and shape, making them a solid long-term investment. 

• Silk can feel very smooth and gentle, particularly for hair and skin, but it is usually more delicate and can require more careful washing. Polyester pillowcases are often cheaper, but they are usually less breathable than natural fabrics and may not offer the same level of comfort.

Standard vs. Oxford Pillowcases

Both pillowcases serve the same functionality and they are equally comfortable to sleep on so you won’t notice a difference during the night. Deciding whether you should opt for a standard or an oxford pillowcase will come down to your personal style and preferred bedroom aesthetic.

What is a Standard Pillowcase?

These pillowcases were originally named after the Housewives Co-operative in Bolton, which reinvented the standard pillowcase in the 1880's. At the time, pillows frequently fell out of their cases. To resolve this issue, a flap at the open end was added to tuck in and secure the pillow. We have now grown accustomed to this simple style.

The housewife pillowcase has a simple style. It appears modern, minimalist and functional, with a plain sewn edge that gives a neat, pared-back, minimalist look. They are often referred to as the ‘standard pillowcase’ and are a popular choice because they can be effortlessly combined with other types of bedding. This is why they often form an essential part of a duvet set. 

What is an Oxford Pillowcase?

The Oxford pillowcase is a statement of style. Whether you have a minimalist décor or a more luxurious style, these pillowcases can stand out as a focal point. Their versatility allows them to complement various bedding sets and room designs, being particularly effective on bigger beds, such as a Super King where they help to fill out the space a little more. They are typically placed on top of Housewife pillowcase, their tailored look giving the illusion of a wider, more luxurious pillow. In turn, this makes a bedroom look more elegant and sophisticated. They are, therefore, a popular choice for those who appreciate both form and function.

What to find out more, learn about the benefits of an Oxford pillowcase.

Decorative Pillows For Your Bed

As an extra touch you can place a few decorative pillows on top of your bed. At Rise & Fall, we have a lumbarcushion covers, available in velvet, linen and organic cotton muslin. We also sell individual lumbar cushion inserts. 

The Real Difference

Both styles of pillowcases will be equally comfortable for sleeping, but opting for a well-made pillowcase with premium fabrics significantly enhances comfort and ensures a peaceful night's sleep. For the most comfortable night’s sleep, you want natural fabrics like cotton or linen. Unlike synthetic fabrics, they are naturally breathable and can help regulate your body temperature while you’re sleeping.

Although they measure up differently, the pillow casing itself is the same size for both.  Here at Rise & Fall, we sell standard and king-size pillowcases:

Pillowcase Closures

If you tend to be a restless sleeper who moves around a lot during the night, a pillowcase with a zipper or button could be a good option to ensure your pillow stays in place throughout the night. This is particularly beneficial for silk pillowcases, which are naturally more slippery than cotton. 

The ease of removing and replacing the pillowcase also makes zipper closures a good choice for those who prioritise convenience. However, you may find the zipper uncomfortable, especially if you happen to rest your face directly on the closure area. If you opt for a zipper pillowcase, it’s important to choose a high-quality zipper to avoid potential snagging or damage to delicate fabrics like silk. When washing your pillowcase, remember to close the zipper beforehand to prevent any issues. Broken zips can happen over time.  

The Choose is Yours

Explore our entire collection of high-quality luxury pillowcases, available in high-grade cotton or hypoallergenic flax linen and a palette of signature colours. We recommend prioritising superior fabrics for your bed linen to help to transform your bedroom into a relaxing sanctuary. If you want a clean, understated look opt for a Housewife pillowcase. If you prefer a more decorative, sophisticated look then choose the Oxford pillowcase.

Pillow Buying FAQs

1. What size is a standard pillowcase in the UK?

A standard UK pillowcase is usually 75cm x 50cm, or around 29.5in x 19.5in. A king-size pillowcase is usually 90cm x 50cm, or around 35.4in x 19.5in.

2. Are down pillows good for allergies?

Down pillows may not suit everyone with allergies, but high-quality down that has been properly cleaned, de-dusted and sterilised can be a better option than lower-quality filling. If you are sensitive to down, wool or another naturally hypoallergenic option may be more suitable.

3. How often should you wash your pillowcase?

You should usually wash your pillowcase once a week. If you have sensitive skin, allergies, oily skin, or use hair and skincare products overnight, washing it more often can help keep your bedding fresher.

4. Why do some pillows turn yellow?

Pillows can turn yellow over time because they absorb moisture while you sleep. Sweat, natural oils from your skin and hair, skincare products and damp hair can all gradually build up on the pillow, causing yellow staining.

Using a pillowcase and a pillow protector can help reduce this, as they create an extra layer between you and the pillow itself. Washing your pillowcase regularly also helps keep your pillow fresher for longer.

5. What is a Continental Pillowcase?

A continental pillowcase is a square pillowcase, usually 65cm x 65cm (25.6in x 25.6in), which can come in both Housewife or Oxford designs. Continental pillows are usually used as back pillows set against the headboard or as decorative pillows to dress a bed.

6. What Are Zipper Pillowcases?

Zipper pillowcases help keep your pillow neatly in place throughout the night — particularly useful for silk pillowcases, which are naturally smoother and more slippery than cotton. They also create a cleaner, more streamlined finish with no loose fabric.

For comfort and durability, it’s important to choose a high-quality concealed zip and fasten it before washing to help protect delicate fabrics like silk. When washing your pillowcase, remember to close the zipper beforehand to prevent any zips from being broken.