The Best Pillows for Airbnb Hosts: Boost Guest Comfort & 5-Star Reviews

Marifil Limpahan
Aug 3
3 min read

Pillow Talk for Hosts: The Best Pillows for Your Airbnb

When it comes to Airbnb hosting, little details make a big difference and guest comfort is everything.

We’ve seen it time and time again at BNB Guardians: a clean home, great location, and fast replies are essential, but if your guest doesn’t sleep well, expect it to show up in your reviews. That’s why investing in the best pillows for Airbnb hosts isn’t just a nice touch, it’s smart Airbnb strategy.

In this post, we’re diving into the top pillow types for short-term rentals, how to choose the right ones for your guests, and how this one small decision can help you optimize your Airbnb listing, increase 5-star reviews, and stand out in a crowded market.

Why the Right Pillow = Better Reviews

Think about it: your guests spend roughly 1/3 of their stay with their head on a pillow. That’s not just furniture, it’s part of the experience.

The right pillow supports better sleep, reduces neck pain, and shows your guests that you care about their comfort. And when guests feel cared for, they write glowing reviews, and book again.

“This is the kind of detail we teach inside our Airbnb coaching program: small touches, big impact.”

Memory Foam Pillows: Support Meets Satisfaction

Why we love them:

Conforms to head and neck for pressure relief
Ideal for all sleeping positions

Best for: Guests who prefer support and structure while they sleep

Price range: $30–$80 each

Pro tip: Some memory foam pillows feel too firm, so keep a few medium-loft options on hand for flexibility.

We recommend shredded memory foam for Airbnb hosts, it’s adjustable, breathable, and feels luxurious without breaking the bank.

Bamboo Pillows: A Cool, Eco-Friendly Choice

Why guests love them:

Naturally hypoallergenic and breathable
Great for sensitive skin and warm climates

Best for: Eco-conscious travelers and allergy sufferers

Price range: $40–$100

These pillows stay cool throughout the night, which guests will appreciate—especially in summer months or warmer markets. Make sure they come with removable, washable covers to maintain cleanliness between stays.

Down and Down-Alternative Pillows: Luxury on Any Budget

Down pillows offer unmatched plush comfort, but they’re not for everyone. Allergies or ethical concerns can be a factor, so down-alternatives are a safe (and soft) bet.

Why they work:

Soft, moldable feel
Easy to fluff to preferred firmness

Price range:

Down: $50–$150
Down-alternative: $30–$70

Hosting tip: Want to be known for amazing sleep setups? Offer both types in a labeled pillow menu. It’s a simple Airbnb optimization tactic that feels five-star.

Hypoallergenic Pillows: A Must for Sensitive Sleepers

Why they matter:

Blocks dust mites and allergens
Great for guests with asthma or allergies

Best for: Every listing. Seriously.

Price range: $20–$60

Adding hypoallergenic pillows shows guests you care about their health and cleanliness. Just make sure you wash them (and the protectors) regularly to maintain their effectiveness.

Don’t Skip This: Pillow Protectors

If you’re not using pillow protectors, you’re making a costly mistake. Protectors:

Prevent stains, sweat, and odors
Block allergens and dust
Extend the life of your pillows

Price range: $10–$25 per set

Recommendation: Use waterproof protectors for high-turnover listings. It’s one of those hidden tools in smart Airbnb property management that pays off long-term.

Firm Pillows for Stronger Support

Some guests want structure. That’s where firm pillows come in.

Why they work:

Ideal for back or side sleepers
Helps maintain proper spinal alignment

Price range: $30–$80

We suggest having a mix of firmness levels available in your unit. Label them clearly or mention the options in your welcome book, it’s a great way to reduce unnecessary guest questions.

Extra Options for Next-Level Hospitality

Want to stand out from your competition? Offer specialty pillows:

Body pillows for pregnant guests or those who love to cuddle
Wedge pillows for guests with acid reflux or snoring concerns
Neck roll pillows for added ergonomic support

Price range: $20–$100

Use guest feedback to determine which ones to keep stocked or rotate them in based on your Airbnb guest communication trends and booking demographics.

Final Thoughts: Pillows Matter More Than You Think

Choosing the best pillows for your Airbnb isn’t just about sleep, it’s about standing out, earning great reviews, and getting rebooked again and again.

To recap:

Offer a mix of firmness and materials (memory foam, bamboo, down-alt)
Use protectors to keep pillows fresh and clean
Go the extra mile with hypoallergenic or specialty options
Always think about your guest’s comfort and communicate clearly

Want More Hosting Tips That Actually Work?

At BNB Guardians, we help hosts like you set up systems that scale, build 5-star guest experiences, and grow profitable short-term rental businesses without burning out.

👉 Join our Airbnb Super Host Academy 👉 Or book a call with us to get personalized help with your Airbnb listing creation, guest experience strategy, and property setup