Hug pillow, cuddle pillow, body pillow, hugging pillow: you'll see all these names when you shop for a pillow to hold at night. Some mean the same thing, some don't. Here's a simple guide to what each one is, who it suits, and how to choose the right one for you.
The quick answer
- Want something long to hug with your arms and knees? Choose a cuddle pillow, also called a body pillow.
- Want a soft, squishy pillow to hold, rest your head on or prop yourself up with? Choose a regular-size hug pillow.
What's the difference?
| Cuddle pillow / body pillow | Hug pillow | |
|---|---|---|
| Shape | Long and straight | Bed-pillow size |
| Seevo size | 20 x 54 inches / 50 x 137 cm (about 4.5 feet) | 16 x 24, 17 x 27 or 20 x 30 inches / 50 x 76 cm |
| How you use it | Hug it along your body, with a knee over it | Hold it in your arms, rest your head, prop yourself up |
| Best for | Side sleepers, anyone who wants full-body support | Anyone who loves a very soft pillow to hold |
| Space in bed | Takes one side of the bed | Takes the space of a normal pillow |
Cuddle pillow and body pillow are the same thing: a long pillow about as tall as your body. "Hugging pillow" is another name people use for either type.
Why adults love hugging pillows
Hugging pillows aren't just for children. Many adults sleep better holding something:
- More comfortable side sleeping: with a long pillow between your knees and in your arms, your hips, back and shoulders rest in a more natural position.
- Feeling settled: holding something soft is calming and helps you stay in one position instead of tossing and turning.
- Support beyond sleep: use it as a backrest for reading, a prop when watching TV, or a cushion for your legs.
Which one should you choose?
Choose a cuddle pillow (body pillow) if you:
- Sleep on your side and like something between your knees.
- Want one pillow that supports your arms, chest and legs at the same time.
- Want extra support during pregnancy (see our cuddle pillow vs pregnancy pillow guide).
- Want a long backrest for sitting up in bed.
Choose a hug pillow if you:
- Want something soft to hold without taking up half the bed.
- Like a plush, squishy pillow to rest your head or arm on.
- Want a pillow you can easily move from bed to sofa.
Our two options
Cuddle Pillow / Body Pillow: our bestseller. 20 x 54 inches / 50 x 137 cm, filled with 100% microfiber that is soft to hug yet holds its shape. The cover is sold separately: a smooth satin cuddle pillow cover or a breathable cotton cuddle pillow cover.
Hug Pillow (Super Soft): a plush, cloud-like pillow filled with 100% microfiber that resists lumps, in 16 x 24, 17 x 27 or 20 x 30 inches / 50 x 76 cm. Dress it in a satin pillow cover.
Tips for getting the most from your hugging pillow
- Use a removable cover so you can wash it regularly and keep the pillow fresh.
- Fluff it now and then to keep the filling evenly spread.
- Try different positions: between the knees, behind your back, or under your arm, until you find what feels best.
Frequently asked questions
Is a cuddle pillow the same as a body pillow?
Yes. Both names describe a long pillow, roughly as tall as your body, that you hug or rest against.
Are hugging pillows good for adults?
Yes. Many adults, especially side sleepers, find a hugging pillow makes sleep more comfortable and settled.
What size is a cuddle pillow?
Ours is 20 x 54 inches / 50 x 137 cm, about 4.5 feet long. Most cuddle pillow covers are made to fit this size.
Can couples use a cuddle pillow?
Yes. It takes up one side of the bed, so many couples use one each, or one partner uses it on their side.