The debate over whether Brits prefer a soft or hard pillow has been settled, with a poll of 2,000 adults finding that the majority prefer a firmer option. Some 49% said they enjoy resting their head on something harder, compared to just 29% who prefer soft pillows.
Majority prefer fuller cushions and multiple pillows
The research, commissioned by Premier Inn, found that the majority also prefer a fuller cushion (69%) over a thin or flat option (7%). Most respondents (41%) like to have two pillows on their bed, with 13% opting for one and 42% opting for three or more.
Seven in 10 said their entire night's sleep can be ruined by bad quality head support, and some even make the effort through the night to ensure the temperature is perfect, with 58% preferring the cooler side.
Rylan Clark speaks to Londoners about pillow preferences
Rylan Clark was in London speaking to the public about their preferences as Premier Inn launched new pillows across all its hotels. The presenter was enlisted to check them out for himself.
“With all my early starts, I know what really matters when it comes to getting a good night’s sleep,” he said. “It’s been so fun getting the nation’s ‘pillowpinions’ and up close and personal to the new pillows and make sure they are as dreamy as they look. Spoiler alert! They are.”
Additional pillow habits and replacement patterns
The research also found that 35% of adults like an extra pillow to slot between their legs, while 87% would notice right away if their regular bedding favourite was swapped out.
Top qualities cited were comfort (69%), plumpness (44%) and firmness (39%), according to the OnePoll.com stats. One in 10 are particularly keen on making sure it supports a binge watch in bed.
However, 43% haven’t replaced their pillows for at least two years, with 13% admitting they can’t even remember when they last got themselves a new one.
Sarah Simpson, who heads up sleep experience at Premier Inn, said: “The nation has spoken – pillow quality is key to a perfect night’s sleep and when it comes to preference, Brits overwhelmingly prefer a firm over a soft pillow. As Rylan says, transforming more than 377,000 pillows across our hotels has been an incredible operation, but it’s been so worthwhile and is making a real difference to the sleep experience. And best of all our guests can choose between firm or soft pillows in every room so no matter what your preference, we’ve got you.”
