I Tested the Brooklinen Down Alternative Pillow − I Liked It So Much, I'm Still Using It Five Months Later

Side sleepers rejoice; the Brooklinen Down Alternative Pillow is the perfect fit for keeping your neck and spine aligned for comfortable rest all night long. Since I started testing it over five months ago, I've slept with nothing else − I even took it on a four-night camping trip.

As the fill is hypoallergenic, it's a breathable pick that's suitable for sensitive sleepers and those who prefer to avoid any animal-derived products. It's also easier to care for than traditional down, as it's machine washable, OEKO-TEX-certified, and available in a range of support options.

It's quickly become my best pillow, and I don't see it being knocked off that pedestal anytime soon.

Brooklinen Down Alternative Pillow: Specifications

Who Would the Brooklinen Down Alternative Pillow Suit?

The Brooklinen Down Alternative Pillow will suit all sleepers and sleep positions, provided you choose the right level of support. As mentioned, I sleep on my side, so the soft support option keeps my neck and spine aligned without lifting my head too high.

I also prefer a pillow that’s as flat as possible, although it’s worth noting that the soft option is exceptionally soft and flat. That’s perfectly suited to my preferences, but it may feel too low-profile for some sleepers. It’s also the best choice for stomach sleepers, as a flatter pillow helps prevent the neck from being pushed into an uncomfortable position.

Back sleepers, meanwhile, will likely benefit from the medium or firm support options, which provide more of the structure needed to keep the head and neck comfortably supported. If you fall somewhere between the two, the medium option offers a useful middle ground.

What is the Brooklinen Down Alternative Pillow Like to Sleep On?

Perfectly soft and squishy, the Brooklinen Down Alternative Pillow keeps me comfortable all night long, and I've not once woken up with neck or back pain since I started using it.

I'm not a particularly hot sleeper, but the hypoallergenic fill hasn't caused any overheating, either. This is particularly impressive as, while down is naturally temperature-regulating, synthetic alternatives often trap heat. I'd put this down to the fact that this pillow uses a fluffy, fibrous filling which enhances breathability, rather than a solid block of foam or something similar.

Either way, it's not marketed as a cooling pillow pick, and I certainly wouldn't go so far as to say it's actively cooling. That being said, the cotton sateen shell also works to wick away moisture as you rest. If, unlike me, you are a hot sleeper, I'd suggest something like the Sleep Number TrueTemp Plush Pillow instead.

How does the Brooklinen Down Alternative Pillow Rate Online?

The Brooklinen Down Alternative Pillow boasts an average rating of 4.4 stars across 1,664 reviews on the Brooklinen site, with shoppers praising its comfort, support, and quality.

'A nice upgrade for everyday comfort,' reads one recent five-star review, left by Kristiina. 'I've always preferred the feel of down pillows, so I wasn't sure how a down alternative would compare, but this one completely exceeded my expectations. It's incredibly plush and has that soft, cloud-like feel I love, while still providing enough support to keep its shape throughout the night.

'The biggest difference I've noticed is that I no longer wake up needing to fluff or adjust my pillow to get comfortable. It stays supportive from the moment I fall asleep until I wake up.'

Another, from Natali, even goes as far as to call it the 'perfect pillow,' adding, 'Love the pillow − super comfortable and just like down. An actual down alternative for once. Love it!'

As with anything, there are a couple of more negative reviews, which mainly refer to the pillow being too flat, too squishy, and too thin. Of course, each sleeper's perfect pillow is entirely subjective − what works for me may not work for you, and vice versa. Besides, it is available in three different supports, so there should be something suitable for everyone.

Others also mention that they were expecting more from a pillow at this price point, but I disagree. For a hypoallergenic pillow from a premium, well-rated brand like Brooklinen, I think $59 is more than fair.

If you're hesitant about investing, my best advice would be to always go into a store to see and feel them in person before purchasing. That way, you'll know exactly what you're getting to avoid any disappointment.

The Brooklinen Down Alternative Pillow: Final Verdict

For sensitive sleepers and those looking to avoid animal-derived materials, you really can't go wrong with the Brooklinen Down Alternative Pillow. The fill perfectly mimics the feel of traditional down, and the sateen cover is certified to meet the OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100, too. While that doesn't make it organic bedding, the fill is certified to the Global Recycled Standard (GRS), to ensure it's ethically sourced and produced, and the whole pillow is certified free of any harmful substances.

I also appreciate how easy it is to wash, dry, and care for this pillow: Simply machine wash cold and tumble-dry low. Considering you should be washing your pillows every three to six months, this kind of convenience is particularly important.

I'd also be more than happy to pay full price for this pillow, though I have frequently seen it reduced in the bedding sales.

If I lost mine, or anything happened to it, I would be on the Brooklinen site ordering a new one the very next day, which speaks for itself. For that reason, my final verdict is nothing but positive − it's my perfect pillow for comfortable side sleeping.

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All prices were correct at the time of publication.

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