Pillows are all about your own tastes. Decide on the size of pillow you'd like and the fill material you prefer and from there, select the thickness and firmness you prefer.
Natural-fill pillows include those stuffed with down and other types of feathers are the longest lasting, most comfortable pillows. Unless you're allergic to feathers, these are the best choice. Down provides more softness and support than any other fill (though all feather pillows are good choices). While they cost more, high quality natural fill pillows can last as long as a decade.
Rubber Foam Pillows
There are also combination feather/down pillows with one on one side, one on the other divided by fabric.
Pillows with a down/feather mixture are also available. These pillows are soft and resilient, but slightly less so than pure down; but they are also more affordable.
Polyester and other synthetic fill pillows may be shaped or textured for added support and comfort. These are the least expensive type of pillows, but do not last as long as natural fill pillows. These should be replaced every few years or as needed.
Latex is another economical fill. These pillows are inhospitable to dust mites and resistant to mildew, but are also not as comfortable as other pillows.
Buckwheat hulls are a very comfortable choice of fills. These are starting to become more popular in the US. These are hypoallergenic and comfortable, but some people dislike them; it's best to try them out before purchasing or inquire about the return policy.
Foam rubber is also hypoallergenic and can offer a good level of comfort and support, but quickly wears out, needing replacement annually. These are also on the firmer side, so if you're a fan of down pillows, you may not enjoy foam rubber fill.
When shopping for new pillows, try putting the pillow on the floor and then folding it in half. Press out the air in the pillow (if it's down or feather filled) The pillow should quickly return to its original shape once released. You can test synthetic fill pillows by placing a sneaker on the pillow. The pillow should force the shoe off and quickly return to its original shape.
Caring For Your Pillows
Feather-filled pillows (including down) should be dry cleaned twice annually. There are cleaners who offer pillow cleaning services, so take note of these. Synthetic fill pillow are usually machine washable (check the label first). If you use pillow protectors, then you'll only need to wash synthetic fill pillows once a year.
Common Pillow Sizes:
Standard (20 x 26 inches)
Queen (20 x 30inches)
King (20 x 36 inches)
European Square (26 x 26 inches)
Decorative Bed Pillows
These pillows are made more for decorative purposes than for comfort. They can add a softer touch to a metal or wooden headboard and be used to hide less attractive sleeping pillows. These pillows are available in a variety of shapes and may range between 12" and 18" in diameter.
Pillow shams are made to fit standard sizes of pillows and are strictly decorative; being used only to hide the sleeping pillows when not in use.
European pillows are large (usually 26") square pillows which can be used for sleeping or as decorative accents along with shams or pillow covers.
Boudoir pillows are generally used decoratively, but can be used as travel pillows as well.
Bolsters or neck rolls are tubular in shape and are made to provide neck and head support while reading in bed or resting. You can find these in any size and thickness needed and can have then custom made to your specifications.
Accent pillows are strictly decorative and are usually made of luxurious fabrics and decorated with trim or beading. They are available in a variety of shapes and styles.