Ours are down, and are washed periodically. We'd tried to replace them before and didn't like it - so went back to our favorites. I have neck problems and sometimes I have to sleep with a different set up. The last time I hurt my neck I was on pain meds and muscle relaxers and slept on a rolled up towel placed underneath my neck. Wow, that felt great! Occasionally will still sleep that way as it makes my neck feel so good. I can sleep that way even when laying on my side.