The fill of the pillow you choose is one of the most important aspects, next to the construction. Different fills provide different advantages depending on the user.
Husk and seed pillows are a centuries old fill brought back to life with man's renewed interest in all things natural. They work well for those people looking for a pillow that offers both firm support and the ability to shape their pillow depending on the moment. Husk and seed pillows will mold to the conformity of your head or head and shoulders and keep the shape until you move. They do have a small disadvantage that no other pillow has, and that is their noise factor. Some people claim that they make a small rustling noise that can be unsettling. The noise is slight, and for many, the comfort they offer far outweighs any small sounds the pillows may emit when in use.
Down and feather filled pillows are as old a choice as the husk and seed. What has changed through the years is that many now come in hypoallergenic choices. If your pillow has any chance of becoming damp, such as in an extremely humid area, or if it may be used in a camper or boat, I would not recommend either, as they can develop an odor under those conditions.
Memory foam pillows often fall under the same category as orthopedic. Known for how well they retain their shape, they are often shaped unconventionally in comparison to what most would consider a normal pillow shape. If you are a chronic sufferer of shoulder, neck, or back pain, memory foam pillows may be your answer to a good night of rest.
Cotton filled pillows are available in a range of thicknesses and comfort levels. If you can pinpoint the proper combination you require, a cotton-filled pillow is an ideal choice. They also have the added benefit of working well for people that have allergies.
Foam filled pillows are inexpensive. They are also often of lower quality than your average pillow. They come in a range of fills from solid, to shredded, and pellets.