Thinking about getting a new pillow? You might have heard about Brooklinen pillows, and honestly, they get a lot of buzz. But are they actually worth the hype? In this brooklinen pillows review, we’re going to break down what makes these pillows tick, who they’re good for, and if they’ll really improve your sleep. We’ll look at everything from how they’re made to how they feel, and whether they’re a good deal for your money.
Key Takeaways
- The Brooklinen Down Pillow offers a blend of softness and support, available in Plush, Mid-Plush, and Firm options to suit various sleeping styles.
- Made with down clusters and a cotton sateen shell, the pillow aims for loft and comfort, though some users find even the firmest option still quite plush.
- It generally holds its shape well and offers decent breathability, but it’s not the best choice for very hot sleepers due to down’s insulating properties.
- Brooklinen provides a generous 365-night sleep trial and a 2-year warranty, making it a low-risk purchase.
- While priced reasonably for a down pillow, potential buyers should consider the natural down scent and the possibility of it being too soft if they prefer very firm support.
Brooklinen Down Pillow: An Overview
What Is The Brooklinen Down Pillow?
So, you’ve heard the buzz about Brooklinen pillows and are wondering what all the fuss is about? Well, let’s get down to it. The Brooklinen Down Pillow is basically their take on a classic down pillow, but with a few modern twists. It’s designed to give you that fluffy, cloud-like feeling that many people love about down, but with a bit more structure and support than you might expect. They use down clusters, which are softer and rounder than regular feathers, helping the pillow keep its shape and loft. It’s not just a one-size-fits-all kind of deal either; they offer different firmness levels, which is pretty important because, let’s be honest, we all sleep differently.
Key Product Details
Here’s a quick rundown of what you need to know about the Brooklinen Down Pillow:
- Fill: Certified down clusters
- Shell: Cotton sateen
- Sizes: Standard, King
- Firmness Options: Plush, Mid-Plush, Firm
- Trial Period: 365 nights
- Warranty: 2 years
- Shipping: Free within the US
Company Background
Brooklinen isn’t some ancient bedding company; they’re relatively new on the scene, launching in 2014. Their whole thing is about making high-quality bedding and sleep products accessible without all the fancy markups you often see. They focus on simple designs and good materials, and they’re pretty open about how they make their stuff. They’ve expanded beyond just sheets to include things like comforters, blankets, and, of course, these popular pillows. They’ve built a reputation for being a straightforward brand that cares about sleep quality.
Comfort And Support For Every Sleeper
Evaluating The Loft And Firmness Levels
Brooklinen really tries to cover all the bases when it comes to how firm or soft you like your pillow. They offer three main options: Soft, Medium, and Firm. It’s not just a marketing thing either; they actually use different fill combinations and constructions to achieve these levels. The Soft pillow is all about plush down clusters, aiming for that sink-in feeling, which they say is great for stomach sleepers. The Medium option is their best-seller, using a mix of down clusters and feathers for a balance that should work for most people, especially back sleepers. Then there’s the Firm pillow, which also uses down and feathers but is built to be more supportive, ideal for side sleepers who need that extra lift to keep their spine aligned.
How It Feels To Sleep On The Brooklinen Pillow
So, how does it actually feel? Well, it depends on which firmness level you pick, of course. The Soft one is like sleeping on a cloud, really squishy and you can definitely feel your head sink in. It’s nice if you like that feeling of being cradled. The Medium pillow is more of a middle ground. It’s not too hard, not too soft, and it feels pretty adaptable. I found it gave a decent amount of support without feeling stiff. The Firm pillow offers a noticeable difference in support. It holds its shape well and keeps your head from sinking too much, which is good if you need your neck to stay in a specific position.
Suitability For Different Sleeping Positions
This is where those firmness levels really come into play. If you’re a stomach sleeper, you’ll probably want to go for the Soft pillow. It’s thin enough that it won’t push your head up at an awkward angle, which is key to avoiding neck pain. For back sleepers, the Medium pillow is often the sweet spot. It offers enough loft to support the natural curve of your neck without pushing your head too far forward. And if you sleep on your side, the Firm pillow is likely your best bet. It provides the necessary height and support to fill the gap between your shoulder and head, keeping your spine straight.
Here’s a quick rundown:
- Stomach Sleepers: Aim for the Soft pillow. It’s designed to be less lofty, preventing neck strain.
- Back Sleepers: The Medium pillow is usually the go-to. It offers a good balance of comfort and support for neutral spinal alignment.
- Side Sleepers: Consider the Firm pillow. It provides the height and firmness needed to keep your head and neck level.
It’s important to remember that these are general guidelines. Personal preference plays a huge role in what feels comfortable. What one person finds supportive, another might find too hard. Brooklinen’s return policy is pretty generous, so don’t be afraid to try one out if you’re unsure.
Key Product Details
| Feature | Soft Pillow | Medium Pillow | Firm Pillow |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ideal For | Stomach Sleepers | Most Sleepers, Back Sleepers | Side Sleepers |
| Fill Composition | Down Clusters Only | Down Clusters & Feathers | Down Clusters & Feathers |
| Construction | Plush | Dual-Core, Balanced | Dual-Core, Firmer |
Construction And Materials
Down Clusters Versus Feathers
When you’re looking at down pillows, it’s good to know what’s actually inside. The Brooklinen pillow uses down clusters, which are the soft, fluffy bits found closest to a bird’s skin. These are different from feathers, which have a quill. Down clusters are lighter and provide more loft, meaning they make the pillow feel fluffier and more luxurious. Feathers, on the other hand, can sometimes poke through the fabric and feel a bit pokey. The Responsible Down Standard (RDS) certification means the down used in these pillows comes from ducks and geese that have been treated humanely. This is a pretty important detail for a lot of people.
The Cotton Sateen Shell
The outer cover of the Brooklinen pillow is made from 100% cotton sateen. Sateen is a type of weave that gives the fabric a smooth, slightly lustrous finish. It feels really nice against your skin, and it’s also quite breathable. This helps prevent the pillow from getting too hot while you sleep. The 100% cotton sateen weave is a common choice for bedding because it’s durable and comfortable. It’s also a material that tends to get softer with each wash, which is a nice bonus.
Hypoallergenic Properties
People often worry about down pillows triggering allergies, but Brooklinen addresses this. The down used is treated to be hypoallergenic, meaning it’s processed to remove dust and allergens. Plus, the OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 certification means the entire pillow has been tested for harmful substances. This certification assures that the materials meet strict global safety standards, which is good news if you’re sensitive to chemicals or just want to be sure about what you’re sleeping on. It’s a nice layer of reassurance.
Performance And Durability
So, how does the Brooklinen Down Pillow hold up over time? That’s a big question when you’re spending your hard-earned cash on bedding. Let’s break down how it performs day-to-day and how long you can expect it to last.
Maintaining Shape And Loft
One of the main worries with down pillows is whether they’ll go flat after a few weeks. The Brooklinen Down Pillow seems to do a pretty good job here. When you first get it, it’s usually compressed, but a good fluffing brings it back to life. Over time, it does settle a bit, which is pretty normal for down. However, it doesn’t seem to get completely pancake-flat. You’ll likely need to give it a good shake each morning to keep it plump, especially if you’re a side sleeper who needs more loft.
Breathability And Temperature Regulation
This is where down often shines, and the Brooklinen pillow is no exception. The natural down fill is inherently breathable, meaning air can move through it. This helps prevent heat from getting trapped. The cotton sateen shell also contributes to this. If you tend to sleep hot, you’ll probably find this pillow much better than, say, a solid memory foam one that can sometimes feel like a personal heater.
- Breathable Fill: Down clusters allow for good airflow.
- Cotton Shell: The sateen weave is light and lets heat escape.
- Temperature Neutral: Generally stays cool, avoiding that stuffy feeling.
Long-Term Wear And Tear
Down pillows can last a long time if you take care of them. The Brooklinen pillow uses quality materials, which helps. The stitching on the shell seems solid, and the down itself, if kept dry and fluffed regularly, shouldn’t break down too quickly. However, like any natural material, it will eventually show signs of wear. You might notice a slight decrease in loft after a year or two of consistent use, and the fill might start to clump a little if it gets damp or isn’t fluffed properly.
Proper care is key. Regular fluffing and airing out the pillow can make a big difference in its lifespan. Avoid washing it too often, as this can strip the natural oils from the down and make it clump.
Key Certifications:
- OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100: This means the fabric has been tested for harmful substances, which is good for peace of mind.
- Responsible Down Standard (RDS): This certification confirms that the down used comes from ducks and geese that were treated humanely. It’s a nice touch if you care about ethical sourcing.
Addressing Common Concerns
The Natural Down Scent
So, you’ve unboxed your new Brooklinen pillow, and there’s a bit of a smell. Don’t panic! This is pretty common with down-filled products. It’s usually just the natural scent of the down and feathers, sometimes mixed with a bit of the processing materials. It’s not harmful and typically fades away after a few days. To speed things up, you can air out the pillow in a well-ventilated room or even give it a gentle tumble dry on a low setting (check the care instructions first, though!). Some people find a light spritz of fabric refresher helps, but I usually just let mine air out.
Pillowcase Fit And Aesthetics
Finding the right pillowcase for your Brooklinen pillow shouldn’t be too much of a headache. They generally come in standard sizes, so most regular pillowcases should fit. If you’re using one of their own pillowcases, like the cool sateen ones, you’ll find they’re designed to fit snugly without being too tight. The aesthetic is pretty classic; it’s a pillow, after all. The cotton sateen shell gives it a nice, smooth finish that looks good even without a pillowcase, though I always recommend using one for protection and comfort.
Firmness Expectations
This is where things can get a little subjective. Brooklinen offers different firmness levels – Soft, Medium, and Firm – and they’re designed to cater to various sleeping styles. For instance, the Soft pillow is often recommended for stomach sleepers, the Medium for back sleepers, and the Firm for side sleepers. However, what feels ‘firm’ to one person might feel ‘medium’ to another. The Mid-Plush option, which is made with 80% feathers and 20% down, can feel firmer than a pillow that’s 100% down. It’s important to read the descriptions for each pillow type carefully and consider your own preferences. If you’re unsure, starting with a medium option is often a safe bet, and remember that Brooklinen’s return policy is quite generous, giving you a full year to decide if it’s the right fit.
Brooklinen Pillow Policies And Value
When you’re thinking about dropping some cash on a new pillow, it’s not just about how it feels right out of the box. You gotta consider what happens if it’s not quite right, or how long it’s actually going to last. Brooklinen actually makes this pretty easy with their policies.
Sleep Trial and Return Policy
This is where Brooklinen really shines. They give you a full 365 nights to try out their down pillow. That’s a whole year! So, you can really get a feel for it in your own bed, with your own sheets, and see if it works for your sleep style over time. If it doesn’t, no sweat. They offer free returns within that year, and they’ll give you a full refund. It’s basically a year-long sleep trial, no questions asked. They even accept returns in any condition, which is pretty generous.
Warranty Information
Beyond the generous trial period, Brooklinen backs their down pillow with a solid warranty. You get a two-year protection plan on the pillow. This covers any manufacturing defects that might pop up after you’ve had it for a while. It’s good to know they stand behind their product like that.
Pricing and Affordability
Let’s talk about the cost. Down pillows can get pretty pricey, but Brooklinen keeps things relatively reasonable. While it’s definitely an investment compared to a basic synthetic pillow, the quality you get for the price is pretty good. They also offer financing options, which can make it easier to manage the cost if you need to.
Here’s a quick look at what you can expect:
- Trial Period: 365 nights
- Warranty: 2 years
- Shipping: Free within the US
- Returns: Free within the trial period
- Financing: Available
Considering the long trial period, the warranty, and the overall quality of a down pillow, the price point feels justified. It’s not the cheapest pillow out there, but you’re getting a lot of value for your money, especially with the peace of mind that comes with their return policy.
Brooklinen Down Pillow Versus Alternatives
So, you’re wondering how the Brooklinen Down Pillow stacks up against other options out there? It’s a fair question. While the Brooklinen pillow offers a nice balance of softness and support, not every pillow is created equal, and your personal needs are going to be the biggest factor.
Comparison With Other Down Pillows
When you look at other down pillows, you’ll find a range of fill qualities and constructions. Some might use a mix of down and feathers, which can sometimes lead to pokey quills poking through the fabric. Brooklinen uses down clusters, which are generally softer and provide more loft. This means you get that fluffy look and feel without the discomfort. However, other brands might offer more specialized down fills, like Hungarian goose down, which is often considered the premium choice, but usually comes with a much higher price tag. The key difference often comes down to the fill power and the ratio of down to feather.
Here’s a quick look at how Brooklinen compares:
| Feature | Brooklinen Down Pillow | Typical Down Pillow | Premium Down Pillow |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fill Type | Down Clusters | Down/Feather Mix | Goose Down |
| Loft | Good | Variable | High |
| Support | Moderate | Variable | Moderate to High |
| Price | Mid-Range | Lower to Mid-Range | High |
Considering Down Alternative Options
If down isn’t your thing, maybe because of allergies or ethical reasons, down alternative pillows are a popular choice. These are typically filled with synthetic materials, like polyester microfiber. They can mimic the feel of down pretty well and are often more budget-friendly. A good example is the Original Casper pillow, which uses a pillow-within-a-pillow design for customizable loft. It’s also designed to be breathable and moisture-wicking, which can be a plus if you tend to sleep hot. However, down alternatives might not offer the same natural breathability or long-term loft retention as genuine down clusters. They can also sometimes feel a bit
So, Are Brooklinen Pillows Worth It?
After spending some time with the Brooklinen Down Pillow, I can see why people are talking about it. It really does offer that fluffy, cloud-like feel that down is known for, but with a bit more structure than you might expect. It held its shape well during my testing, which is a big plus for someone who tosses and turns. While the price is a bit higher than your average pillow, the quality of the materials and the 365-night trial make it a pretty solid deal. Just be aware that even the firmest option might still be softer than some people prefer, and if you’re sensitive to smells, you might want to air it out well or use a pillowcase. Overall, if you’re looking for a comfortable, well-made down pillow and don’t mind the investment, Brooklinen is definitely worth considering.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Brooklinen Down Pillow special?
This pillow is known for its soft, fluffy feel, like sleeping on a cloud. It uses down clusters, which give it a nice shape and loft, making it look great on your bed. It also comes in different firmness levels to suit various sleepers.
Who is the Brooklinen Down Pillow best for?
It’s a great choice for people who love a soft and moldable pillow. Depending on the firmness you choose, it can work well for stomach, back, and side sleepers. If you like a pillow that cradles your head and neck, you’ll probably enjoy this one.
Can people with allergies use this pillow?
While it’s made with down, the Brooklinen Down Pillow is treated to be hypoallergenic and has an antimicrobial cover. However, if you have severe allergies to down or feathers, you might want to consider a down-alternative pillow instead.
How do I care for my Brooklinen Down Pillow?
Brooklinen suggests spot cleaning your pillow when possible. While it can technically be machine washed on a gentle cycle and tumble dried on low, washing it too often might affect its loft. Some users notice a slight scent after drying, so washing only when necessary is best.
What is the return policy for the Brooklinen Down Pillow?
Brooklinen offers a generous 365-night sleep trial. This means you can try the pillow for a full year and return it for a full refund if you’re not happy with it. They even cover the shipping costs for domestic returns.
Is the Brooklinen Down Pillow worth the price?
Many customers find the Brooklinen Down Pillow to be a good value for its quality and comfort. While it might cost more than a basic pillow, the materials and the 365-night trial make it a worthwhile investment for many who prioritize a good night’s sleep.
