Emma pillow firmness
When it comes to firmness, the Emma pillow stands out among the crowd. 💪
Unlike Tempur pillow material, which provides a soft, sinking sensation, the foams in the Emma pillow are less adaptable.
The three foam layers that make up the Emma pillow include a gel memory foam layer, a visco memory foam layer, and an HRX foam layer.
When these layers are combined, the Emma pillow is one of the firmest options we've put to the test.
If you prefer to stay on top of your pillow instead of sinking into it, the Emma Original pillow might be the perfect fit for you.
It's also a strong choice for side sleepers who require a lofty pillow to keep their heads elevated, aligning the spine and neck just right.
What's special about the Emma pillow is its duality.
You have a firm gel foam layer on one side and a softer HRX foam layer on the other.
Depending on your firmness preference, you can choose to sleep on either of the Emma foam pillow layers. 🔄
However, we found the Emma pillow to be a tad too firm for our liking, even when lying on the softer side.
We prefer memory foam pillows that cradle the head more snugly.
If you share this preference, you might want to consider the Panda Hybrid pillow.
While still offering excellent support, it provides a more contouring feel around the head and shoulders. 🐼
Take a look below:
-
![Panda Hybrid Pillow]()
![Panda Hybrid Pillow]()
Panda London![Panda London]()
Hybrid Bamboo PillowPrice from £ 76.46 £ (89.95 )The Panda Hybrid pillow is a Sleep Hero favourite made from orthopaedic grade, adaptive CharcoCell foam."Perfect combination of memory support and breathability."The Panda Hybrid pillow is a Sleep Hero favourite made from orthopaedic grade, adaptive CharcoCell foam."Perfect combination of memory support and breathability."Price from £ 76.46 (£ 89.95 )
Emma pillow instructions
The pillow's design allows you to select the foam layer that best suits your comfort needs.
You can remove any of the foam layers and arrange them in a way that feels most comfortable.
However, we found removing and rearranging the layers quite challenging, as they are tightly packed into the Emma cover with an opening that only unzips partially. 👎
As a result, it isn't the most practical adjustable pillow, and once you find a suitable arrangement, it's best to stick with it.
We suggest removing all the layers and trying different arrangements before you put them back into the cover.
You should remove the layers as gently as possible, as too much force can tear the material. 😯
If you'd prefer an easy-to-use alternative, we recommend the Brightr Eclipse pillow.
The foams in this customisable memory foam pillow are much easier to remove and adjust.
Check it out below:
-
![Brightr Eclipse Firm Memory Foam Pillow]()
![Brightr Eclipse Firm Memory Foam Pillow]()
Brightr![Brightr]()
Eclipse Firm Memory Foam PillowPrice from £ 99.90The Brightr Eclipse is a firm memory foam pillow designed for orthopaedic support.The Brightr Eclipse is a firm memory foam pillow designed for orthopaedic support.Price from £ 99.90
How do I adjust the Emma pillow to suit my sleeping position?
How do you know if you need a low-loft or a high-loft pillow?
Of course, your personal preferences play a part.
Luckily, the Emma Original pillow is made with three removable foam layers that can be adjusted to your needs.
Side sleepers
Side sleepers generally do better on high-loft pillows. ⛰
If you sleep on your side, you should keep all three foam layers of the Emma Original pillow.
This allows the distance between the head and shoulders to be filled and guarantees that you have enough support for a good night's sleep.
But you can still choose which side of the pillow you want to rest your head on, the firm gel foam side or the softer HRX foam side.
We found the Emma Sleep pillow comfortable in the side sleeping position, although it took a few days to adjust to the firmer feel.
Our head had minimal sinkage compared to other memory foam pillows we've tested, such as the Panda or Simba Hybrid pillow.
Stomach sleepers
We wouldn't recommend you sleep on your stomach.
This is the worst position for your neck as you'll have to be turned to one side all night long in order to breathe.
This will undoubtedly cause pain and tension. 😩
However, you can reduce tension on the spine by choosing a soft, low-loft pillow that aligns the neck neutrally with the spine.
Take a look at the images below:
In the second image, our tester uses just one layer, which keeps the neck in a neutral position aligning with the spine.
Therefore, we'd recommend front sleepers use one layer for optimal support in this position.
Back sleepers
Sleeping on your back is the healthiest of all. 😁
For this position, you'd need a medium-loft pillow.
If your pillow is too low or too high, your neck will bend up or down, creating unnecessary tension.
During testing, we found using two Emma layers provided the best support in the back sleeping position.
We recommend combining the middle Visco foam layer with the HRX foam layer.
However, the pillow still felt a little firm and didn't provide as much sinkage as we'd have liked.
This depends on your preference and whether you prefer to sleep on or in the pillow.
Emma pillow UK composition
The Emma pillow is designed with layers of foam and a high-quality cover.
These layers include:
- Gel foam layer
- Memory foam layer
- HRX foam layer
You can adjust the Emma foam pillow layers to your preferences by removing one or two layers.
There isn't a fixed way to sleep on the pillow - you can sleep on whichever layer provides the most comfort and support for your body. 💪
Gel memory foam layer
The gel memory foam layer (previously known as the Airgocell foam layer) offers a supportive, comfortable surface for your head while allowing it to sink into the foam.
The gel foam contours to your neck and maintains a comfortable temperature throughout the night. 🌡️
Visco memory foam layer
The visco memory foam layer evenly distributes pressure and weight, supporting your head and shoulders.
The viscoelastic memory foam [1] responds to warmth and pressure, adapting to your upper body's unique shape.
HRX foam layer
The HRX foam (High Resiliency Extra) layer is the softest, providing ideal support for your head and neck.
If you prefer a softer feel, try flipping your pillow to sleep on this layer and sink more deeply.
Emma pillow cover
The hypoallergenic Emma pillow cover consists of 98% polyester and 2% elastane.
This soft and thick cover is comfortable and highly breathable.
The Emma Original pillow cover is also removable and machine-washable at 40℃. 🛀
Our cover remained in excellent condition after a wash without pilling or changes to the material.
This is great for people concerned about hygiene or those prone to allergies since washes at high temperatures kill bacteria and dust mites.
As previously noted, the cover only unzips partially, making it challenging to remove when it's time for washing or adjusting the layers.
You cannot wash the actual Emma pillow.
So, it's a good idea to invest in a good quality pillowcase.
Grab an Emma pillowcase:
-
![Emma 100% cotton percale pillowcases]()
![Emma 100% cotton percale pillowcases]()
Emma![Emma]()
100% Cotton Percale PillowcasesPrice from £ 30.40 £ (37.99 )These lightweight 100% cotton percale pillowcases wick away moisture and keep you cool."Get 5% off with our exclusive 'SLEEPHEROUK5' discount code."These lightweight 100% cotton percale pillowcases wick away moisture and keep you cool."Get 5% off with our exclusive 'SLEEPHEROUK5' discount code."Price from £ 30.40 (£ 37.99 )
Does the Emma pillow sleep cool?
Memory foam is known for responding to body heat and retaining warmth, making it slightly warmer than standard pillows.
This means you might experience a warmer sleep on memory foam pillows than others.
However, during our time using the Emma pillow, we didn't feel excessively hot but more cosy and comfortable.
To better understand how the Emma pillow reacts to heat, we employed a thermal camera and compared the Emma Original pillow with the Emma Premium Microfibre pillow. 📷
Take a look at our results:
After lying on the pillow for several minutes, the Emma Original pillow had an average temperature of 29.5°C compared with the Emma Premium Microfibre pillow at 24.4°C.
The thermal map revealed orange areas, indicating where heat was retained in the pillow. 🔥
These results suggest that this Emma Sleep pillow is not the best option for hot sleepers.
That said, it's essential to remember that your mattress and duvet play a more significant role in determining your sleep temperature.
About 80% of the overall temperature in bed is determined by the duvet. If you overheat or freeze in bed, you should reconsider your choice of duvet. Depending on which duvet you use, it may not be suitable for your new mattress.
Walter Braun
Sleep Expert
If you feel too warm while sleeping, we recommend a cool mattress and a lightweight duvet to ensure a comfortable and refreshing night's rest. 💤
Our article on the best cool mattresses for hot sleepers has some excellent recommendations.
Our favourite cool mattresses:
-
![Panda Hybrid Bamboo Mattress]()
![Panda Hybrid Bamboo Mattress]()
Panda London![Panda London]()
Hybrid Bamboo Mattress ProPrice from £ 712.50 £ (950 )The Panda Hybrid Bamboo Mattress Pro is the world's most advanced bamboo mattress.The Panda Hybrid Bamboo Mattress Pro is the world's most advanced bamboo mattress.Price from £ 712.50 (£ 950 ) -
![Simba Hybrid Luxe]()
![Simba Hybrid Luxe]()
Simba![Simba]()
Hybrid LuxePrice from £ 1,199The Simba Hybrid Luxe is Simba's most advanced mattress with 11 premium layers.The Simba Hybrid Luxe is Simba's most advanced mattress with 11 premium layers.Price from £ 1,199
Emma pillow sizes
The Emma memory foam pillow is available in one standard size of 40 x 70 cm (15.7 x 27.5 inches).
Pillow height is adjustable, but it will have a maximum height of 12 cm (4.7 inches).
The dimensions are on par with most pillows, and we didn't have trouble using our regular pillowcase with this pillow. 🎉
Why not check out some of our favourites?
Our top pillowcase recommendations:
-
![Emma 100% cotton percale pillowcases]()
![Emma 100% cotton percale pillowcases]()
Emma![Emma]()
100% Cotton Percale PillowcasesPrice from £ 30.40 £ (37.99 )These lightweight 100% cotton percale pillowcases wick away moisture and keep you cool."Get 5% off with our exclusive 'SLEEPHEROUK5' discount code."These lightweight 100% cotton percale pillowcases wick away moisture and keep you cool."Get 5% off with our exclusive 'SLEEPHEROUK5' discount code."Price from £ 30.40 (£ 37.99 ) -
![Night Owl Pillowcase Pair]()
![Night Owl Pillowcase Pair]()
The Fine Bedding Company![The Fine Bedding Company]()
Night Owl Herringbone Pillowcase PairPrice from £ 15The Night Owl pillowcase pair is made with soft-touch microfibre."Get 15% off with our exclusive 'SLEEP15' discount code."The Night Owl pillowcase pair is made with soft-touch microfibre."Get 15% off with our exclusive 'SLEEP15' discount code."Price from £ 15
Emma pillow price
The Emma pillow is quite expensive.
While customisable memory foam pillows are usually a bit more pricey, the Emma is still more expensive than comparable pillows.
But remember - you get what you pay for.
The Emma Original pillow is made from advanced, customisable foam layers and is made to last a minimum of two years.
Therefore, it's actually more cost-effective than a cheap, hollowfibre pillow that goes flat after a few months of use.
But if you're looking for a more budget-friendly adjustable pillow, we have some excellent alternatives.
Our favourite budget-friendly adjustable pillow:
-
![Kally Adjustable Pillow]()
![Kally Adjustable Pillow]()
Kally Sleep![Kally Sleep]()
Adjustable PillowPrice from £ 49.99The Kally Sleep Adjustable Pillow has 4 easy-to-remove sleep pads for unique customisation.The Kally Sleep Adjustable Pillow has 4 easy-to-remove sleep pads for unique customisation.Price from £ 49.99
Emma pillow discount codes
Even though the Emma Original pillow is quite pricey, you'll likely be able to get a great deal during an Emma pillow sale. 🥳
Emma UK regularly offers discounts, promotions, and sales, which can give you anything from 10% to 50% off.
These discount codes often apply to Emma accessories, including the Emma pillow.
And if there are any Emma pillow sales currently running, we'll also display the details on this page:
You don't have to browse the internet for Emma pillow discount codes. 🙆
We also collect all the best discounts for you on our discounts page.
Alternatively, sign up for our newsletter to get all the best deals straight to your inbox. 👇
Emma pillow UK delivery conditions
The Emma pillow UK is quick and easy to order online.
It comes with free delivery and is generally dispatched within 1 - 3 business days. 🚛
Your pillow will arrive at your doorstep, vacuum-sealed in a recyclable cardboard box.
The Emma pillow is easy to unbox: Simply remove it from the box and cut away the plastic.
How long does the Emma pillow take to expand?
The Emma pillow takes longer to expand than other pillows we've tested.
Our Emma pillow was a little misshapen when we initially unwrapped it from its plastic packaging:
The pillow took around 24 hours to return to its regular shape.
Do Emma pillows smell?
The Emma Original pillow is a memory foam product, and you'll likely experience off-gassing.
This is a chemical smell that is commonly emitted by memory foam products when first unpacked. 📦
The smell isn't toxic, but it can be unpleasant.
We experienced minimal off-gassing during our Emma Original pillow test, and the smell disappeared after a few hours.
We'd always recommend unpacking new items in a well-ventilated room. 🏡
You may also want to let the pillow air out for a bit before sleeping on it.
Does the Emma pillow come with a trial period?
The Emma memory foam pillow comes with a 30-night risk-free trial period.
This is a key feature of the Emma Original pillow. 🔑
A lengthy trial period means you have ample time to test the pillow in the comfort of your own home.
Like new mattresses, it may take a few nights to get used to a new pillow.
This is particularly true if you're moving from a more traditional pillow to a memory foam pillow.
Emma pillow returns
If you're not completely satisfied, you can return Emma pillows and receive a full refund. 🚚
To return a product, you need to contact customer service via the online return portal.
This will take you through step-by-step instructions on how to return your product.
Returns are free of charge.
What are the other UK Emma pillows?
There's more to Emma's pillow range than just the Emma Original pillow.
Other Emma pillows include:
- Emma Premium pillow
- Emma Microfibre pillow
- Emma Premium Microfibre pillow
So, which Emma pillow is best?
Emma Microfibre pillow
The Emma Microfibre pillow is made from soft fibres that give it a feel as soft as down, all encapsulated within a 100% polyester cover.
It has breathable and hypoallergenic properties, making it a reliable choice for those with allergies.
The pillow offers a cooling and temperature-regulating effect, providing a refreshing sleep experience. 🌡️
The entire pillow can be washed at a maximum of 40°C, and it's also suitable for tumble drying on a low setting.
It's also one of the most budget-friendly pillows in the Emma range.
Emma Premium Microfibre pillow
The Emma Premium Microfibre pillow is another excellent customisable option. 🛠️
Like its Original counterpart, the Premium Microfibre pillow offers full adjustability with two interchangeable microfibre layers.
It's also much easier to remove the layers from the cover compared to the Emma Original pillow.
If you're after something softer, reminiscent of the plush comfort of down or feather pillows, then the Emma Premium Microfibre pillow could be your ideal match.
We recommend this pillow to:
- Stomach & back sleepers
- Those looking for a soft pillow or down-alternative
- Allergy sufferers looking for a fully washable pillow
Unlike the firmer Emma Original pillow, this pillow has a fluffy feel that allows your head to sink more deeply for a 'sleeping on a cloud' sensation. ☁️
Emma Original Pillow vs Emma Premium Microfibre Pillow
Ultimately, the 'better' pillow is subjective and depends on your preference.
Favour a pillow with firmness and sturdiness? The Emma Original pillow might be your sleep companion.
On the other hand, if soft, fluffy pillows are your cup of tea, the Emma Premium Microfibre pillow would be a worthy contender.
The table below breaks down the basics of each pillow:
| Emma Original Pillow | Emma Premium Microfibre Pillow | |
| Material | Gel foam, memory foam, HRX foam | 2 microfibre layers |
| Feel | Firm | Soft |
| Washing | Cover only | Fully washable |
| Height | Up to 12 cm (4.7 inches) | 7 cm (2.7 inches) |
| Size | 40 x 70 cm (15.7 x 27.5 inches) | 50 x 70 cm (19.6 x 27.5 inches) |
| Purchase | EXTRA 5% OFF WITH SLEEPHEROUK5Click to copy code |
EXTRA 5% OFF WITH SLEEPHEROUK5Click to copy code |
No matter which pillow you choose, you can rest assured that these are high-quality products.
Buy the Emma Premium Microfibre pillow:
-
![Emma Cloud Pillow]()
![Emma Cloud Pillow]()
Emma![Emma]()
Premium Microfibre PillowPrice from £ 109The Emma Premium Microfibre pillow is a soft & fluffy down-alternative pillow."Get 5% off with our exclusive 'SLEEPHEROUK5' discount code."The Emma Premium Microfibre pillow is a soft & fluffy down-alternative pillow."Get 5% off with our exclusive 'SLEEPHEROUK5' discount code."Price from £ 109
Should you buy the Emma pillow?
The Emma Original pillow is one of the best pillows on the market.
Finding the right pillow height for your preferences and sleeping position is essential.
With adjustable layers, the Emma pillow is perfect for that. 👌
That said, the pillow's standout firmness may not be everyone's cup of tea.
It's an excellent choice for those who appreciate a solid, supportive pillow, particularly side sleepers needing higher loft.
However, hot sleepers and those who prefer a softer feel should consider other alternatives.
We suggest:
- The Emma Premium Microfibre pillow for a cooler sleep
- The Panda Hybrid pillow for more value for money
- The Simba Hybrid pillow for better adjustability
Alternatively, try the Emma pillow first and use the 30-night trial to see if it's right for you. 🤞
Rating
Contact Emma UK
Customer service: To contact Emma UK directly for complaints, support, or queries, please e-mail them at support@emma-mattress.co.uk, visit their live online chat, or complete their online contact form [2].
Registered office: Emma Matratzen GmbH, Wilhelm-Leuschner-Str. 78, 60329 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
Frequently asked questions
-
Are Emma pillows any good?
The Emma pillows reviews are generally quite favourable.
These are very high-quality pillows.
But, they won't be for everyone.
- The Emma memory foam pillow is the most supportive, but it's not a very snuggly pillow. Memory foam pillows often feel firmer and sturdier. 🧱
- The Emma Premium Microfibre pillow (previously: Emma Cloud pillow) is a good alternative, offering a softer feel. On the downside, this one isn't made of memory foam, so you'll miss some of the support. 🧐
Most Emma pillow customer reviews are quite favourable, but you'll find some Emma pillow reviews on TrustPilot that complain about how firm the pillow is.
There are also some complaints about customer service, but this is very much 50/50.
-
Where is the Emma pillow made?
Emma pillows, along with other Emma products, are made right here in the UK. 🇬🇧
-
Does the Emma pillow come with a guarantee?
The Emma pillow comes with a 2-year guarantee.
-
Can I buy the Emma pillow on Amazon?
Yes, the Emma pillow is available on Amazon UK.
-
Can you tell me more about the Emma brand?
Emma Sleep is a German start-up company first established in 2015.
The company's idea was to make the mattress market as transparent and consumer-oriented as the market in the United States.
According to its founder, Max Laarmann, consumers should not have to buy mattresses at extravagant prices from local stores.
Instead, they should be able to buy a reasonably priced mattress online and benefit from a long and risk-free trial period.
Today, the Emma mattress is one of the most popular bed-in-a-box mattresses, selling all over Europe, the USA, the UK, Australia, and even India.
The brand has also expanded and now sells a selection of mattresses, pillows, duvets, toppers, and more.
All Emma mattresses sold in the UK are also manufactured in the UK.
-
Is a layered pillow right for you?
Even though you can customise the height and feel of the Emma memory foam pillow, it won't feel like your traditional pillow.
Memory foam and layered pillows tend to feel a bit more rigid.
This is necessary as it ensures you get the orthopaedic support you need for tension-free sleep.
If you're struggling with neck pain, choosing a product like the Emma pillow is an excellent idea.
But not everyone likes the feel of these types of pillows.
If you like snuggling with your pillow or enjoy the feel of more traditional feather or down pillows, then the Emma memory foam pillow is not the right choice.
It won't give you that soft and snuggly sensation, and you won't be able to squish it up under your head.
While you will get the support you need, you need to balance support with the pillow feel you enjoy.👍
A shredded memory foam pillow like the Simba Hybrid Pillow is a good compromise.
These offer more support than a traditional pillow but less of that rigidness associated with standard memory foam pillows.
-
What mattresses does Emma UK offer?
If you're investing in a new pillow from Emma, you might also want to purchase a new mattress.
Emma memory foam mattresses are very popular and amongst some of the best mattresses in the UK. 🏆
The Emma UK range includes the following:
- Emma Original, a bed-in-a-box memory foam mattress
- Emma Hybrid, a pocket-sprung memory foam hybrid mattress
- Emma Premium, the latest and most advanced mattress in the Emma range.
The Emma Original mattress is an all-foam mattress, while the Emma Hybrid and Emma Premium combine memory foam and pocket springs for additional support and breathability.
-
References
Alternatively, message us directly via the Contact Us page.