POLYESTER

Synthetic pillows – “spun fibre”,“microfibre” or “hollowfibre” – are the most common type on offer in bedding stores. Dr  Jeremy Goldin at Pillow Science stresses that polyester pillows need to be replaced every three to six months and recommends other fills when substantial support for the head and neck is required.

Advantages Inexpensive; good for “dressing” a bed; machine-washable.

Disadvantages Flattens easily; offers medium support at best; harbours dust mites; doesn’t last long.

Price range $10 to $90.

Bestsellers Dentons “Comforel” Deluxe, $36.95; Sleep Right 4-Zone Pillow, $89.95; Tontine Comfort, $23.95.

LATEX

Latex quality varies greatly, says Dick Harold of Dentons Pillows. While latex is firm and provides excellent support, not  everyone likes the “bounciness”. The dense structure tends to draw in heat, so it can feel clammy.

Advantages Lasts 15-20 years; dust-mite resistant; offers significant support for heads and necks.

Disadvantages Relatively expensive; doesn’t breathe as well as other fills.

Price range $80 to $140.

Bestsellers Dunlopillo Classic, $94.95; Dentons “Talalay”, $94.95; Naturelle Latex, $79.