- Filling type: memory foam
- Cover material: bamboo
- Firmness level: medium
- Available sizes: slightly shorter than standard (60 cm)
Recommended by Abigail Buchanan
I enjoyed sleeping on this pillow much more than I thought I would based on first impressions alone, as it’s flat and, to be honest, looks a bit odd. It’s 60cm long, so a bit shorter than the standard 70cm, which means it looks a bit sad and small in my pillowcase. However, I quickly changed my mind once I laid down on it. It’s incredibly supportive and comfortable once you get down, and the hypoallergenic bamboo pillowcase is very soft to the touch.
A balance between good support and comfort is another element that Bastine outlines in her explanation of what makes a good pillow: “Sometimes you fall asleep on your side and wake up on your back. A good pillow should move according to the way you lie.
“Comfort and support for your spine and the natural curvature of your spine and eliminating pressure points in your body is really crucial to creating a sense of weightlessness. The less pain you have, the less discomfort you have, the more likely you are to be able to sit still, and sitting still is crucial to good quality sleep.”
The Panda pillow is lighter and softer than other memory foam models, which I like because it feels more like a pillow and less like a medical headrest. You still get personalized support from the memory foam core of the pillow, which conforms to the shape of your head and neck. Another criticism often leveled at memory foam is that it traps too much heat, but this pillow felt super breathable – perhaps because of the bamboo cover.
If you have sensitive skin, this pillow might be for you. It is OEKO-TEX certified and free from irritants and chemicals. Plus, the soft, smooth bamboo cover is naturally antimicrobial.
Panda London is rightly proud of its sustainability efforts: it uses organic, sustainably sourced, pesticide-free bamboo; and as well as using recycled and recyclable packaging, it offers a recycling programme and will collect your old Panda cushions for free. It also offers a 30-night trial period and a 10-year guarantee as standard.