11 Best Neck Roll Pillows, Physical Therapist-Reviewed & Buying Guide 2024

check_icon Research-backed

The right neck roll pillow can help you maintain a good posture and give the back and neck adequate support for optimal comfort when sleeping on your bed or traveling on a bus or a flight. So, we have created a list of the best neck roll pillows to help you choose the right option. These expert-recommended sleep and travel neck roll pillows are soft, breathable, and made of skin-friendly materials. Some of them are also machine-washable for easy maintenance. So, explore our list and take your pick.

Top Picks

In This Article

11 Best Neck Roll Pillows

1. Best Contouring:Everlasting Comfort Bolster Pillow

4.3
Everlasting Comfort Bolster Pillow Image: Everlasting Comfort

Made from high-quality and safe materials, this durable bolster pillow by Everlasting Comfort is suitable for use at home, in the office, or on the go. Its multifunctional design allows you to use it in different ways. Whether you need extra support for your legs, back, neck, or more, this pillow has you covered. Its firm yet plush construction provides comfort and support, making it suitable for anyone looking to improve their posture or alleviate aches and pains.

Product Dimensions: 9.49 x 8.58 x 7.6 inches | Item Weight: 720 Grams | Material: Memory Foam | Shape: Cylindrical | Fill Material: Memory Foam | Color: White

Pros

  • Contours to the shape of your body
  • Removable and washable cover
  • Compact size
  • Tested and certified by Oeko-Tex

Cons

  • May have an unpleasant chemical smell when opened
  • May not be firm enough

Our Reviewer's Experience

"This pillow's design prevents it from rolling around, allowing me to sleep peacefully. When I am at my desk, I use it as a lumbar pillow to correct my posture and keep back pain at bay. It took me a while to get used to its firmness, but overall, my experience has been great."


2. Best Low-Density Foam:OPTP Original McKenzie Cervical Roll Pillow

This cylindrical pillow roll is a good pick if you have neck or back pain, as it provides the required cervical support. It is specifically designed to reduce pressure on the spine and neck and alleviate pain or ache during sleeping. Its 20×3.5 inch diameter easily fits most pillowcases from standard to king sizes. If you want to know more about the benefits of this product, check out this video on YouTube.

Item Weight: ‎0.02 Pounds | Material: ‎Foam | Shape: ‎Cylindrical | Fill Material: ‎Foam | Color: ‎Blue

Pros

  • Washable and removable cover
  • Low-density foam
  • Helps maintain upper spine curve and alignment
  • Helps develop better sleeping habits

Cons

  • May lose firmness over time

Our Reviewer's Experience

"This pillow is not too stiff and has the right resilience to keep it from flattening under my weight. It does not fit my pillow cover to the T, with a section of its side jutting out. Nevertheless, the immense comfort it offers me is commendable."


protip_icon Quick fact
The round form of the pillow helps breathe easily and lowers brain temperature by enabling dry heat to escape from the head to the pillow, thus preventing perspiration (2).

3. Best Hypoallergenic:AllSett Health Cervical Neck Roll Memory Foam Pillow

4.2
AllSett Health Cervical Neck Roll Memory Foam Pillow Image: All Sett Health

AllSett Health’s round cervical neck roll pillow is suitable for relaxation, pain relief, and all-night support. Its ergonomic shape and design allows you to align your vertebrae to your natural curve, relieving or preventing neck, back, and shoulder pain caused by poor spinal alignment. The bolster-shaped pillow measures 17x4x4 inches and is made from premium-quality foam. Soft yet firm, it does not flatten or lose its form. Moreover, the pillow is tested for more than 1000 harmful chemicals and is certified as safe to use by Oeko-Tex.

Item Weight: 10.5 ounces | Product Dimensions: 17 x 4 x 4 inches | Material: Memory Foam | Shape: Round | Fill Material: Foam, Memory Foam | Color: Grey

Pros

  • Removable, machine-washable pillow cover
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Multipurpose
  • Helps relieve pressure on joints

Cons

  • May be stiff

Our Reviewer's Experience

"I found this pillow to be sufficiently supportive without being too firm. I wish the cover was more breathable to prevent it from being overheated with prolonged use. Despite this, I approve of its posture-correcting benefits and easy maintenance."


Why We Think It's Worth Buying

About 5,033 reviewers on Amazon have given their seal of approval to the product.

Everlasting Comfort Bolster Pillow
Best Contouring
OPTP Original McKenzie Cervical Roll Pillow
Best Low-Density Foam
AllSett Health Cervical Neck Roll Memory Foam Pillow
Best Hypoallergenic
Dimensions 9.49 x 8.58 x 7.6 inches- 17 x 4 x 4 inches
Weight 720 Grams ‎0.02 Pounds 10.5 ounces
Material Memory Foam ‎Foam Memory Foam
Shape Cylindrical ‎Cylindrical Round
Fill Material Memory Foam ‎Foam Foam, Memory Foam
Color White ‎Blue Grey
Rating
Reviews9803,7115,033
Price$38.15$24.98$18.95
Buy NowBuy NowBuy Now

4. Best Travel-Friendly:Cushy Form Thera Health Neck Roll pillow

4.1
Cushy Form Thera Health Neck Roll pillow Image: Cushy Form

The neck roll pillow is made of high-quality memory foam and has a breathable structure for comfort and relief. This durable and soft travel pillow provides multipurpose support for proper spine alignment, muscle and joint stability, while reducing stress on the knees and hips. It is suitable for people with neck or back problems, pregnant women, and those who have had surgery or injuries.

Shape: Round | Color: White | Product Dimensions: 17.17 x 4.45 x 4.41 inches | Weight: 1.15 Pounds

Pros

  • Machine-washable cover
  • Travel-friendly
  • Odor-free fabric
  • Zippered cover

Cons

  • Might be too firm

Our Reviewer's Experience

"Its high-density foam construction provides ample support and helps me maintain a correct sleeping posture. Besides, the washable cover makes maintenance hassle-free."


Why We Think It's Worth Buying

Join the 3,965 satisfied buyers on Amazon who have said the product meets their needs and expectations.

5. Best Machine-Washable:Newpoint Neck Roll Pillow

Newpoint’s pillow with neck roll has polyester fiber filling and is supportive and comfortable as a leg raiser or a body-support pillow. It makes a comfy and trendy travel neck roll pillow and is available in a pack of two.

Item Weight: ‎1.5 Pounds | Material: ‎Cotton | Shape: ‎Cylindrical | Fill Material: ‎Polyester

Pros

  • 100% cotton
  • Machine-washable
  • Sufficient loft
  • Hypoallergenic

Cons

  • May not include pillowcase

Our Reviewer's Experience

"This pillow's adequately firm filling and soft outer shell allow me to enjoy ample neck support and comfort. Thanks to the cotton material, I don't have to worry about allergies and irritation. Plus, it can be vacuum-sealed, which helps me save space."


6. Best Multipurpose:LitoTree Comfort Memory Foam Neck Roll And Cervical Bolster Round Pillow

4.3
LitoTree Comfort Memory Foam Neck Roll And Cervical Bolster Round Pillow Image: Lito Tree

The high-resilience memory foam neck roll pillow conforms to your position and offers optimal firmness. The cervical bolster pillow also provides strong support to your pressure points to relieve tension from the neck and back. You can use it as lumbar support to sit comfortably on a chair or couch.

Product Dimensions: 18 x 3.5 x 0.01 inches | Item Weight: 0.91 Pounds | Material: Memory Foam | Shape: Cylindrical | Fill Material: Polyester, Foam | Color: White

Pros

  • No chemical smell or odor
  • Multipurpose
  • Can retain its shape
  • Travel-friendly
  • Machine-washable cover

Cons

  • May not be long-lasting

Our Reviewer's Experience

"After spending hours at a stretch on my laptop, this neck pillow alleviates my fatigue effectively. The memory foam conforms to my posture, giving my neck cushiony support. Although the cover gets dirty quickly, I can easily clean it in the machine."


Why We Think It's Worth Buying

More than 2,055 independent reviewers on Amazon have acknowledged the product's durability and functionality.

7. Best With Organic Filler:Sachi Organics Buckwheat Cylinder Neck Pillow

4.4
Sachi Organics Buckwheat Cylinder Neck Pillow Image: Sachi Organics

The time-tested neck pillow by Sachi Organics is handmade with a washable organic cotton canvas cover and buckwheat hull fillings. The pillow is shaped cylindrically with a zipper opening for easy adjustment, allowing you to add or remove extra hulls to customize the firmness of the pillow to your needs. Further, this pillow with an adjustable design provides firm, comfortable support to your neck as you rest your head on it.

Product Dimensions: 14"L x 6"W x 6"H | Item Weight: 2.25 Pounds | Material: Cotton | Shape: Round, Cylindrical | Color: Natural, Off White

Pros

  • Does not sink deep
  • Contours the neck shape
  • Travel-friendly
  • Breathable material for sweat-free sleep

Cons

  • May be a bit heavy

Our Reviewer's Experience

"Having been accustomed to polyester-filled pillows throughout my life, it took some time to get used to this pillow's textured effect. However, what I like the most about this option is that it allows me to alter the filling quantity. Also, the material and support work well for me."


8. Best Bendable:Dot&Dot Twist Memory Foam Roll Pillow

4.1
Dot&Dot Twist Memory Foam Roll Pillow Image: Dot&dot

Whether you want to relax on a recliner or nap in bed, the flexible Dot&Dot roll pillow can be bent to contour your shape and keep you comfortable. You can use this pillow to support your neck, back, cervical spine, or shoulder. It is also suitable to carry while traveling and can be used on flights. With a memory foam filling, the travel pillow relieves pressure on pain points and cushions your body for comfortable rest.

Item Weight: 1 Pounds | Material: Memory Foam with Cotton Cover | Shape: Semicircular | Fill Material: Memory Foam | Color: Gray

Pros

  • Includes a snap closure type to attach to travel bags
  • Machine washable cotton cover
  • Breathable fabric
  • Available in multiple colors

Cons

  • May be firmer than expected

Our Reviewer's Experience

"Despite being flexible, it keeps my shoulders and neck from aching during long flights. Its malleability makes it possible to use it in multiple ways.While I do wish it were a bit softer, I still like carrying it with me everywhere"


protip_icon Point to consider
Neck roll pillows help avoid neck discomfort and disorders associated with circulation and breathing, such as sleep apnea (3).

9. Best Cooling:Gentle Living Cervical Roll Pillow

4
Gentle Living Cervical Roll Pillow Image: Gentle Living

The compatible pillow by Gentle Living can be used in the office, a car, and at home. The cooling neck roll pillow regulates temperature as you sleep, keeping you sweat-free and comfortable. The supportive pillow has been designed meticulously and tested for durability and comfort. The moisture-wicking, soft cover of this bamboo neck roll pillow is also removable and machine-washable. You can use the Gentle Living versatile roll pillow as a neck, back, or knee support to relieve pain.

Product Dimensions: 18.7 x 4.5 x 4.5 inches | Item Weight: 0.65 Pounds | Material: Memory Foam | Shape: Cylindrical | Fill Material: Memory Foam | Color: White, Smooth Cover

Pros

  • Ergonomic cylindrical design
  • Hypoallergenic cover
  • Zipper opening
  • Improves sleep position
  • Travel-friendly design

Cons

  • May be smaller than expected

Our Reviewer's Experience

"Besides boosting my sleep quality, this pillow has also helped improve my sitting posture. Thanks to its convenient travel bag, I carry it to my office, where I use it for lumbar support all day. It is a bit bulky, but that does not reduce its effectiveness. All in all, I'm quite satisfied with it!"


10. Best Height-Adjustable:Edomi Cervical Neck Roll Buckwheat Pillow

Edomi’s neck roll pillow is 100% handcrafted with good-quality buckwheat husks to provide you with the necessary support. This round pillow is strong, malleable, and offers firm support. Its ergonomic design offers classic comfort and can help with your sleep problems. The inner lining and the cover have zippers that you can take off and clean.

Product Dimensions: 16 x 4 x 4 inches | Item Weight: 1.1 Pounds | Material: Cotton | Shape: Cylindrical | Fill Material: Buckwheat | Color: Yellow

Pros

  • Breathable
  • Helps target pressure points
  • Height-adjustable neck roll pillow
  • Multipurpose

Cons

  • Pillow cover may shrink

Our Reviewer's Experience

"Incorporating this cervical pillow into my nightly routine allows me to sleep more comfortably. Adjusting to its firmness initially took some time, but it has consistently kept neck pain at bay. Plus, the option to customize its fill is a boon."


11. Best Pain-Relieving: C Cushion Lab Neck Roll Pillow For Neck Relief

4.1
C Cushion Lab Neck Roll Pillow For Neck Relief Image: Cushion Lab

The C Cushion Lab cylindrical bolster pillow for neck pain is designed to relieve cervical pain by providing essential support to your neck. This firm neck roll pillow has gel-infused memory foam that offers even support, enhancing cervical alignment and offering comfort and pain relief. The outer cover fabric of the pillow is made from breathable, moisture-wicking material that helps regulate temperature, improving sleep quality.

Product Dimensions: 18 x 4 x 4 inches | Item Weight: 0.81 Pounds | Material: Premium Extra Dense Memory Foam | Shape: Cylindrical | Fill Material: Memory Foam | Color: Light Grey

Pros

  • Offers better air circulation
  • Releases neck tension
  • Comes with a zippered travel bag
  • Removable and washable outer cover
  • Hypoallergenic and Oeko-Tex-certified

Cons

  • May compress easily

Our Reviewer's Experience

"Although I am a side sleeper, I found this cylindrical pillow comfortable. Fitting it into its travel pouch is a bit cumbersome, but it's worth the hassle for the support it provides my neck while working or on the go. Also, I like how it doubles as a knee pillow for additional comfort."


*The prices provided in this article are based on the latest available information. However, they may vary due to changes in pricing by the seller and/or promotional offers.

How To Choose The Right Neck Roll Pillows?

Consider the following factors when choosing the right neck roll pillows.

  1. Sleeping style: Choose pillows that cater to your sleeping position. Your pillow may need more thickness if you’re a side sleeper. Also, consider other factors such as length and cushioning for the right fit.
  1. Alignment: Ensure your neck and head is adequately supported by the pillow. Your shoulders should not rest on the pillow. Dr. Dave Candy, a physical therapist and certified specialist in orthopedic physical therapy, says, “The pillow should fill the entire space between your neck and shoulder if lying on your side–no more, no less. If you sleep on your back, the roll should fill the space between your neck and mattress without forcing it up farther. This will help you maintain a neutral position of your neck.”
  1. Material: Choose a firm pillow with soft and breathable material for optimal comfort. It should retain its shape and be hypoallergenic and easy to maintain. Opt for a neck pillow whose outer shell is made with expert-approved and hypoallergenic materials.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How should I sleep on a neck roll pillow?

Sleep on your side or back and place the pillow under the neck. Remember that your shoulders should be slightly under the pillow, and your head and neck should be at the top. Also, ensure your head is parallel to the mattress and not at an angle.

2. Do neck pillows work on airplanes?

Yes, neck pillows come in handy when traveling on planes, especially long-distance flights. Due to cramped spaces, your neck can experience soreness if you don’t use a proper neck pillow on long flights. Carrying a neck pillow may help avoid any stiffness or pain caused by improper posture.

3. Is it good to sleep on a neck roll pillow?

Yes, it is good to sleep on a neck roll pillow of the right height because it can support your neck, promote deep sleep, facilitate restriction-free breathing, and distribute the weight between the cervical discs more evenly (1) (2). However, it is recommended to opt for a healthcare expert-approved neck roll pillow.

4. How long should I lay on a cervical pillow?

You can use a cervical pillow all night long. However, it may take a few nights to get used to it. If you have a particular neck condition, consult an orthopedic doctor before using the pillow.

Why Trust MomJunction?

After considering user reviews, quality, benefits, and safety, our writers and reviewers compiled this list of the best neck roll pillows. Each product includes the pros and cons to help you make an informed choice. These neck roll pillows provide adequate support to your neck and back and are compact. You can maintain them easily, and they are made of high-quality materials. We have also included a buying guide to help you purchase easily.

Neck roll pillows are worth considering if you need extra neck and back support and suffer from frequent neck aches and backaches. Moreover, they come in handy when you’re traveling, allowing you a comfortable sleep. Most premium neck roll pillows are made of memory foam and breathable material so that the pillow does not make you sweat. For optimal comfort, look for a neck roll pillow that is firm but is made from soft, skin-friendly material. Also, ensure it is hypoallergenic, machine-washable, and odor-free for long-lasting use.

Infographic: What Are The Various Kinds Of Neck Roll Pillows?

Neck roll pillows offer targeted support and comfort for the neck and upper spine, relieving tension. Understanding the different categories can aid in assessing their features for your specific needs. Explore the infographic below to discover variant forms of neck roll pillows to help smoothen your selection process.

Different Types Of Neck Roll Pillows (infographic)

Illustration: Momjunction Design Team


References

MomJunction's articles are written after analyzing the research works of expert authors and institutions. Our references consist of resources established by authorities in their respective fields. You can learn more about the authenticity of the information we present in our editorial policy.
  1. Neck Support Pillows: A Comparative Study
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9608378/
  2. Effectiveness Of A New Cervical Pillow On Pain And Sleep Quality In Recreational Athletes With Chronic Mechanical Neck Pain: A Preliminary Comparative Study
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27607589/
  3. Cervical pillow
    https://recover.centre.uq.edu.au/treatment/cervical-pillow

Recommended Articles

Was this article helpful?
thumbsupthumbsdown
The following two tabs change content below.