Best pillows for Airbnb and Vrbo vacation homes

Fluffy or flat, side sleepers or back sleepers. No matter your guests’ sleep preferences, they all want the same thing—a sleep that’s plush and luxurious. An upgrade to their nights spent at home.

Many hotels and resorts understand this. They know that a five-star bed can be unforgettable, making guests dream about it for months after they check out. So while a pillow may seem like a trivial and humble purchase, it’s quite important for elevating your guest experience.

Here’s how to decide which pillows will give your guests a good night’s sleep (while also increasing your chances of a 5-star review).

Types of pillows

No more tossing and turning over how to give your guests a cozy sleep experience. First step: Learn about the different pillow fillings on the market.

Memory foam pillows

These pillows are known for their contouring support and pressure relief. They can be great for guests who prefer firmer support. However, they can retain heat, making them uncomfortable for hot sleepers.

Down pillows

Down pillows are made from the soft inner plumage of ducks or geese. They offer a luxurious feel and are often used in high-end vacation rentals.

The downside to down? They may trigger allergies in some guests who are sensitive to feathers. Plus, they require fluffing to maintain their loft and shape.

Latex pillows

Latex pillows are a top hypoallergenic option. They’re resistant to dust mites and mold, making them a good choice for guests with allergies. However, they tend to be heavy and less moldable than other pillows. They also have a distinct odor, especially when new.

Synthetic pillows

Synthetic pillows are typically made from polyester fibers and are generally affordable and easy to clean. Though, they’re less breathable, making them feel hot and uncomfortable. Another disadvantage: they can flatten or lose shape faster than natural fillings.

Feather pillows

Feather pillows are soft and plush, providing a comfortable sleeping surface. However, they may flatten over time, require frequent fluffing, and may not provide enough support for some guests. Reviews often mention that the feathers can poke through the cover, causing discomfort and irritation.

Adjustable pillows

These pillows allow guests to customize the firmness and loft by adding or removing filling. They can accommodate a wide range of sleeping preferences. However, some guests could find the process of adjusting the pillow to their liking inconvenient and cumbersome.

What to consider

There’s more to pillows than comfort. See what other qualities you should consider.

Allergies

Guests can come with allergies and your pillows could leave them tossing, turning, sniffing, and sneezing all night. Choose pillows that are hypoallergenic or have allergen-resistant properties. Good options include synthetic pillows or those with special hypoallergenic fillings.

Durability and easy cleaning

Look for pillows that are both long-lasting and easy to clean. Pillows with machine-washable covers or those that can be spot-cleaned are ideal for Airbnb and Vrbo properties.

Price

Resist simply buying the cheapest option. It’s essential to consider the overall value of the pillows. Investing in higher-quality pillows that are durable and comfortable can lead to higher guest satisfaction and fewer replacements over time.

Style

Pillows (and your pillowcases) should work with your Airbnb’s overall design aesthetic. Choose pillows that complement your decor and add to the overall ambiance of the space.

Expert pillow tips for Vrbo and Airbnb hosts

Vacasa manages 44,000+ vacation rentals across North America, so we know what makes a great stay versus a mediocre one. Here are some expert tips for making your sleep experience even better for guests.

1. Offer a variety of pillow options

Sleep preferences differ from guest to guest. If your budget allows, consider providing a variety of firmness levels and materials, from memory foam to synthetic.

2. Invest in high-quality pillow covers and protectors

These will help keep your pillows clean and extend the life of each pillow. Make sure to look for covers that are easy to remove and toss into the washer.

3. Fluff often

No one likes a flat pillow. No matter what the fill, fluff the pillows after every stay for maximum comfort and to help retain its shape.

Best vacation rental pillows

We scouted out the top pillow options for Airbnb and Vrbo hosts, rated on guest comfort and sleep satisfaction.

1. Coop Home Goods Premium Adjustable Loft Pillow

Filled with shredded memory foam, this popular pillow allows guests to customize the loft and firmness to their liking. It's hypoallergenic, dust mite resistant, and machine washable, making it a durable and hygienic choice.

2. Beckham Hotel Collection Gel Pillow

Make guests feel like they’re waking up in a 5-star resort. These pillows are designed to provide a cool and comfortable sleeping experience. The gel-filled fibers help regulate temperature and provide support, while the microfiber cover is soft to the touch. They are also fade and stain-resistant, ensuring they look fresh for every guest.

3. Snuggle-Pedic Ultra-Luxury Bamboo Pillow

This pillow is made with a blend of shredded memory foam and bamboo-derived viscose rayon for a soft and supportive feel. The bamboo cover is breathable and helps regulate temperature, making it ideal for guests who tend to sleep hot. Another plus: they’re hypoallergenic and dust mite resistant.

4. AmazonBasics Down Alternative Bed Pillows

These pillows are filled with a down alternative fiber fill, providing plush comfort and support. The microfiber cover is soft and breathable, and the pillows are machine washable for easy care. They’re also hypoallergenic, making them suitable for guests with allergies.

5. Digital Decor Premium Gold Hotel Pillows

These pillows are designed to provide the luxurious feel of a hotel pillow. Filled with a down alternative fiber fill that provides plush comfort and support, these pillows are hypoallergenic and machine washable, making them easy to clean between guests.