I am very particular about pillows. And for as long as I can remember I have stuck to a tried-and-tested combination of two soft down-filled pillows for sleeping plus a large square one for sitting up and reading – all from The White Company, as it happens. Medium or firm iterations have always, for me, been associated with sleepless nights in sub-par accommodation with sub-par pillow provision.
That being said, fellow bedding connoisseurs have often recommended I try a slightly firmer option as my bottom pillow, arguing that it would give more support, height and overall comfort. And so I turned to The White Company and found its ‘Perfect Everyday Duck Down Pillow’ in medium (it also comes in firm). The website claims, ‘It’s ideal for side sleepers and for those who like a firmer pillow, or as a bottom pillow under a softer style.’ As two of those applied to me (I usually sleep on my side), it seemed like the right choice for this experiment.
The White Company's ‘Perfect Everyday Duck Down Pillow’: is it worth buying?
Never judge a pillow by its weight, it turns out. When I first lifted my new ‘Perfect Everyday Duck Down Pillow’ from the box, I was worried. It was considerably weightier than my usual soft, cloud-like favourites and I feared this would translate into an unyielding, uncomfortable experience. But as soon as I laid my head on it, I felt that familiar feather and down cocoon and plenty of give as I moved from side to side.
Underneath a soft top pillow, it performed even better, providing additional support and slightly more structure without sacrificing any of the comfort I’m used to. Crucially, I have not woken with the aching head or neck that usually follows a night’s sleep on a too-firm pillow. I suspect this is thanks to the perfectly balanced filling of lightweight duck down and fine duck feather. As for the casing, the 233-thread-count cotton percale provides a beautifully breathable, cool and smooth feel. And for bonus points, all The White Company’s down and feather fillings are sourced from cruelty-free suppliers as a by-product of the food industry.
Fact file
- Material: Medium outer fill: 60% lightweight duck down and 40% fine duck feather. Medium inner core: 15% lightweight duck down and 85% fine duck feather. Casing: 233-thread-count cotton percale cover and piped edge
- Machine washable? Machine wash and tumble dry, but for best results, professional laundering is recommended
- Country of manufacture: UK
- Sizes available: Standard (50 x 75cm) and Super King (50 x 90cm)
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How much does The White Company's ‘Perfect Everyday Duck Down Pillow’ cost?
The ‘Perfect Everyday Duck Down Pillow’ costs £50 for one in the standard size.
Delivery
Delivery was efficient and straightforward. A pair of pillows arrived in an easily recyclable cardboard box, with each pillow in its own plastic and fabric carry case – very useful if, like me, you are often tempted to travel with your own pillow. There was no excess packaging.
The White Company's ‘Perfect Everyday Duck Down Pillow’ verdict
If you are in search of a medium-support pillow that offers the comfort of a softer design with additional structure, this is definitely worth investing in. It is ideal as a second pillow, but would also work very well on its own with the feather and down offering plenty of give and reassuring softness. I am definitely a convert.
