Threshold Pillows

Finding Your Perfect Sleep Companion at Target’s Signature Brand

In the quest for a perfect night’s sleep, few things matter more than the humble pillow that cradles your head. Among the sea of options available today, Threshold pillows have emerged as a popular choice for budget-conscious shoppers who refuse to compromise on quality. As Target’s signature home brand, Threshold has developed a reputation for delivering comfort, style, and durability at price points that won’t keep you up at night.

Let’s dive deep into everything you need to know about these popular pillows—from materials and support levels to price comparisons and customer experiences. Whether you’re a side sleeper seeking firm support or someone looking to upgrade your decorative pillow game, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the world of Threshold pillows with confidence.

What Exactly Are Threshold Pillows?

Threshold is Target’s signature home brand that offers a wide range of household items, including bedding, bath products, décor, and—you guessed it—pillows. Launched in 2012, Threshold was designed to provide customers with stylish yet affordable home goods that blend quality craftsmanship with contemporary design.

The Threshold pillow line encompasses various options for different sleep preferences and decorative needs. From standard sleeping pillows to decorative throw pillows, the brand has expanded its offerings to cater to diverse customer needs while maintaining its core promise of accessible luxury.

What sets Threshold pillows apart in the crowded marketplace is their thoughtful balance between affordability and quality. Unlike luxury pillow brands that might cost upwards of $100 per pillow, Threshold offers competitive comfort at a fraction of the price, making quality sleep accessible to more people.

Where to Purchase Threshold Pillows

As a Target exclusive brand, Threshold pillows are primarily available through Target’s retail channels. This exclusivity has its advantages—you won’t need to hunt across multiple retailers to compare prices, and you can trust that you’re getting an authentic product.

The most convenient way to browse the full selection is through Target’s website, where you can filter by firmness level, fill material, size, and special features like cooling technology or hypoallergenic properties. The online shopping experience also provides the benefit of customer reviews, which can be invaluable when making your selection.

If you prefer to test the feel of your pillows before purchasing, Target’s brick-and-mortar stores typically have bedding sections where you can examine Threshold pillows firsthand. This tactile experience can help you gauge firmness and texture more accurately than online descriptions alone.

Target frequently runs promotions on its home goods, including the Threshold line, so keeping an eye on their weekly advertisements or signing up for Target Circle (their free loyalty program) might score you additional savings on your pillow purchase.

Price Points: Affordable Luxury for Every Budget

One of Threshold’s greatest strengths is its commitment to accessible pricing without sacrificing quality. Threshold pillows typically range from $15 to $40 per pillow, with specialty options like memory foam or cooling pillows sitting at the higher end of that spectrum.

Standard sleeping pillows often start around $15-20 for basic polyester fill options, while premium versions with down alternative or memory foam materials generally cost between $25-40. Decorative pillows vary widely based on size and design complexity, with prices typically ranging from $15 for simple solid-colored options to $35 for larger or more intricately designed pieces.

Target frequently offers bundle deals, particularly for decorative pillows, allowing you to purchase coordinating sets at a discount. During major sales events like Black Friday, After-Christmas clearance, or Target’s semi-annual home sales, you can often find Threshold pillows at even more attractive price points.

Compared to competitors like Casper ($65-89), MyPillow ($40-90), or Brooklinen ($60-80), Threshold pillows represent a significant value proposition. While they may lack some of the specialized technologies of premium brands, many customers find that Threshold pillows deliver comparable comfort at a fraction of the cost.

Quality and Materials: What’s Inside Matters

The quality of a pillow ultimately comes down to its construction and materials. Threshold pillows utilize a range of fill materials to accommodate different sleep preferences and price points:

Polyester Fill

Many standard Threshold pillows use polyester fiberfill, a synthetic material that provides a plush feel at an affordable price point. These pillows tend to be lightweight, hypoallergenic, and maintain their shape reasonably well. They’re an excellent entry-level option for guest rooms or budget-conscious shoppers.

Down Alternative

Threshold’s mid-range pillows often feature down alternative fill, which mimics the soft, fluffy feel of natural down without using animal products. These pillows provide a luxurious sleeping experience while remaining hypoallergenic and machine washable. The premium down alternative fills used in Threshold pillows are designed to resist clumping and maintain loft over time.

Memory Foam

At the premium end of the Threshold line, you’ll find memory foam pillows that contour to your head and neck. These pillows offer excellent support and pressure relief, which can be particularly beneficial for those with neck pain or tension. Threshold’s memory foam formulations typically include cooling technologies to address the heat retention common in traditional memory foam.

Cotton and Specialty Covers

Threshold pillow covers are predominantly made from cotton or cotton blends, offering breathability and softness against the skin. Higher-end models may feature specialty fabrics like cooling Tencel or bamboo-derived materials that enhance temperature regulation and moisture control.

Hypoallergenic Options: Sleeping Easy for Allergy Sufferers

For the estimated 20% of Americans who suffer from allergies, finding bedding that won’t trigger symptoms is crucial. Thankfully, most Threshold pillows are designed with hypoallergenic properties in mind, making them suitable for allergy sufferers.

The polyester fill and down alternative options are inherently resistant to dust mites and other common allergens. Many models also feature tightly woven covers that create an additional barrier against potential irritants. For those with more severe allergies, Threshold offers several pillows specifically marketed as hypoallergenic, with specialized treatments to inhibit the growth of bacteria, mold, and mildew.

It’s worth noting that while memory foam is generally considered hypoallergenic, some individuals may be sensitive to the off-gassing that can occur with new foam products. This odor typically dissipates within a few days and can be minimized by allowing the pillow to air out before use.

Size Options: Finding the Perfect Fit

Threshold pillows come in all standard sizes to accommodate different bed dimensions and sleeping preferences:

• Standard (20″ x 26″): The most common size, suitable for twin and full beds.
• Queen (20″ x 30″): Slightly longer than standard, ideal for queen beds.
• King (20″ x 36″): The largest size, perfect for king beds or those who prefer extra pillow real estate.

In addition to these traditional sleeping pillow sizes, Threshold offers a variety of dimensions for their decorative pillows, typically ranging from small 12″ x 12″ accent pillows to larger 24″ x 24″ floor cushions or lumbar support pillows in rectangular shapes.

When selecting pillow sizes, consider both your bed dimensions and your sleeping style. Side sleepers typically benefit from larger pillows that provide ample support for the head and neck, while back or stomach sleepers might prefer standard-sized pillows that don’t create an uncomfortable angle for the neck.

Support Levels: Firm, Medium, or Soft?

Sleep preferences are highly individual, which is why Threshold offers pillows across the firmness spectrum. Understanding the support level that best suits your sleeping position is key to selecting the right Threshold pillow:

Firm Support

Threshold’s firm pillows provide robust support that maintains its shape throughout the night. These pillows are ideal for side sleepers who need to fill the gap between their shoulder and head to maintain proper spinal alignment. The firm options typically utilize denser memory foam or tightly packed polyester fill to achieve their supportive structure.

Medium Support

The middle ground in the Threshold line, medium support pillows offer a balance of comfort and structure. These versatile pillows work well for combination sleepers who change positions throughout the night or back sleepers who need moderate support to maintain the natural curve of the neck. Medium support is achieved through carefully calibrated fill densities that respond to pressure while still providing cushioning.

Soft Support

For those who prefer a plush, cloud-like sleeping experience, Threshold’s soft pillows offer gentle cushioning that you can sink into. These pillows are particularly suitable for stomach sleepers who need minimal elevation to avoid neck strain. Soft pillows typically use looser fill arrangements or specially designed memory foam formulations that provide pressure relief without resistance.

Many Threshold pillows feature clear labeling regarding their firmness level, making it easier to select the appropriate option for your needs. Some specialty models even offer adjustable firmness through removable fill or multi-chamber designs that allow you to customize your support level.

Neck and Head Support: Ergonomic Considerations

Beyond general comfort, proper support for your head and neck is crucial for preventing pain and ensuring restorative sleep. Threshold designs many of their pillows with ergonomic considerations in mind, particularly their memory foam and contoured options.

The memory foam pillows in the Threshold line often feature contoured designs that cradle the head while providing enhanced support for the neck. These ergonomic shapes help maintain proper spinal alignment by filling the gap between the shoulder and head for side sleepers or supporting the natural curve of the neck for back sleepers.

For those with specific neck pain issues, Threshold offers cervical support pillows with distinctive shapes featuring a depression for the head and raised edges for neck support. These specialized designs can help alleviate existing neck pain and prevent future discomfort by promoting optimal sleeping posture.

Even Threshold’s standard fiberfill pillows offer respectable support when selected in the appropriate firmness for your sleeping style. Their premium down alternative options are designed to maintain their loft and supportiveness throughout the night, preventing the midnight pillow “pancake” effect that can lead to poor alignment and discomfort.

Care and Maintenance: Keeping Your Pillows Fresh

One of the practical advantages of Threshold pillows is their generally user-friendly care requirements. Most Threshold pillows are designed with ease of maintenance in mind, though specific care instructions vary by model.

Machine Washability

The majority of Threshold’s polyester fill and down alternative pillows are fully machine washable. This convenient feature allows you to refresh your pillows periodically, removing dust, skin cells, and other allergens that naturally accumulate over time. For best results, follow the specific washing instructions on the pillow’s care label, which typically recommend using cold water on a gentle cycle and low-heat tumble drying with clean tennis balls to restore fluffiness.

Removable Covers

Many of Threshold’s premium pillows, especially memory foam models, feature removable and washable covers. This design allows you to maintain hygiene without subjecting the entire pillow to washing, which can be particularly beneficial for foam pillows that shouldn’t be fully immersed in water. The zippered covers are typically made from cotton or specialty fabrics that stand up well to regular laundering.

Spot Cleaning Recommendations

For pillows that aren’t fully washable, such as certain foam models, Threshold typically provides spot cleaning guidance. This usually involves using a mild detergent solution and a clean cloth to address specific stains without saturating the pillow. Allow the pillow to fully air dry before replacing any covers or pillowcases.

Pillow Protectors

To extend the life of your Threshold pillows and reduce the frequency of deep cleaning, consider using pillow protectors in addition to standard pillowcases. These zippered covers create an additional barrier against moisture, oils, and allergens, keeping your pillow fresher for longer.

Suitability for Different Sleeping Positions

Your preferred sleeping position plays a crucial role in determining which Threshold pillow will provide optimal comfort and support. Here’s a breakdown of the best Threshold options for each sleeping style:

Side Sleepers

Side sleeping is the most common position and requires substantial support to keep the spine properly aligned. Threshold’s firm or medium-firm pillows, particularly their memory foam or dense down alternative options, provide the necessary height and stability to fill the gap between the shoulder and head. Look for their contoured side sleeper models or those specifically labeled for side sleeping support.

Back Sleepers

Back sleepers benefit from medium support that cradles the head while supporting the natural curve of the neck. Threshold’s medium-loft down alternative pillows or their flatter memory foam options typically work well for this position. The ideal pillow will keep your head from tilting too far backward or forward, maintaining the neutral alignment of your cervical spine.

Stomach Sleepers

This position requires the thinnest, softest pillows to prevent neck strain from excessive elevation. Threshold’s soft, low-profile pillows are designed to provide just enough cushioning without pushing the head up at an uncomfortable angle. Their softest down alternative options or specially designed stomach sleeper pillows offer appropriate support for this position.

Combination Sleepers

If you tend to change positions throughout the night, Threshold’s medium-support, responsive pillows provide versatile comfort that adapts to movement. Look for their medium-firm down alternative options or shredded memory foam pillows that offer a balance of support and adaptability.

Decorative Options: Style Meets Function

Beyond functional sleeping pillows, Threshold has developed a reputation for its stylish decorative pillow options that add personality and comfort to living spaces. These decorative pillows come in a wide array of colors, patterns, textures, and sizes to complement any interior design aesthetic.

Seasonal Collections

Threshold regularly refreshes its decorative pillow offerings with seasonal collections that reflect current design trends. From summer-inspired coastal themes to cozy autumnal textures, these rotating collections allow you to update your home’s look affordably throughout the year.

Texture Variety

The decorative line features diverse textural elements—from smooth velvet and crisp linen to nubby bouclé and tactile macramé details. These textural variations add visual interest and dimension to sofas, beds, and chairs while providing comfortable support for lounging.

Coordinated Sets

For those who appreciate cohesive design but lack confidence in mixing and matching, Threshold offers coordinated pillow sets that take the guesswork out of styling. These curated collections typically include complementary colors, patterns, and textures that work harmoniously together while providing visual variety.

Indoor/Outdoor Options

Threshold also offers weather-resistant decorative pillows designed for outdoor spaces like patios and porches. These specialized pillows feature water-resistant fabrics and quick-drying fills that stand up to environmental exposure while maintaining aesthetic appeal.

Customer Reviews and Satisfaction

The true test of any product lies in customer experiences, and Threshold pillows have amassed substantial feedback across Target’s platforms. The general consensus among reviewers paints a picture of solid value and reliable performance.

Positive Feedback Themes

Many positive reviews highlight the impressive comfort-to-price ratio of Threshold pillows, with customers frequently expressing surprise at the quality relative to the affordable price point. The down alternative options receive particularly enthusiastic praise for their cloud-like feel without the allergen concerns or ethical considerations of real down.

Durability is another commonly cited strength, with numerous reviewers noting that their Threshold pillows have maintained their shape and support for years, defying expectations for budget-friendly options. The washability of most models also earns appreciation from hygiene-conscious customers.

Critical Feedback Considerations

On the critical side, some reviewers note that the memory foam options can sleep warm, though this is a common concern with most memory foam products regardless of brand. Others mention that the firmest pillows may take a brief adjustment period, feeling initially too rigid before breaking in to a more comfortable support level.

A small percentage of reviews indicate inconsistency between pillows of the same model, suggesting some quality control variations. However, Target’s generous return policy mitigates this concern for most shoppers.

Overall Satisfaction Metrics

Across the Threshold pillow line, customer satisfaction ratings typically average between 4.0 and 4.7 out of 5 stars, with the premium down alternative and memory foam options generally scoring at the higher end of that range. This places them competitively against much more expensive brands in terms of customer satisfaction.

Comparing Threshold to Competitor Brands

To truly understand Threshold’s value proposition, it’s helpful to compare these pillows against other popular brands in the market:

Threshold vs. Casper

Casper pillows, which retail between $65 and $89, utilize a “pillow-in-pillow” design with a firm inner core and soft outer layer. While this innovative structure receives praise for its adaptability, many customers find that Threshold’s premium down alternative pillows ($25-35) provide comparable comfort at less than half the price. Where Casper may edge ahead is in cooling technology and longer warranty periods.

Threshold vs. MyPillow

MyPillow’s heavily marketed options ($40-90) feature a patented interlocking fill system designed to maintain adjustable support. In comparison, Threshold’s polyester fill pillows are simpler in construction but significantly more affordable. Customer reviews suggest that while MyPillow has devoted fans, many find Threshold options provide similar or better comfort, particularly in the down alternative category.

Threshold vs. Store Brands (Mainstays, Amazon Basics)

When compared to other budget-friendly options like Walmart’s Mainstays or Amazon Basics, Threshold pillows generally demonstrate superior quality control and durability. The slight price premium over these ultra-budget options is typically justified by better materials, more consistent fill distribution, and longer-lasting support.

Threshold vs. Premium Brands (Brooklinen, Parachute)

Premium bedding brands charge significantly more ($60-120 per pillow) for their offerings, which often include luxury materials like real down or organic cotton covers. While these high-end options may offer incremental improvements in breathability or hand feel, many customers find that Threshold’s best pillows deliver 80-90% of the premium experience at 30-50% of the cost.

Durability and Longevity: How Long Will They Last?

A pillow’s value proposition extends beyond its initial comfort to how well it maintains that comfort over time. Threshold pillows generally demonstrate respectable longevity, particularly when compared to other options in their price range.

Expected Lifespan

With proper care, Threshold’s standard polyester fill pillows typically maintain their supportive properties for 1-2 years before beginning to flatten or lose resilience. Their premium down alternative options tend to last longer, with many customers reporting 2-3 years of consistent performance before noticeable degradation. The memory foam models generally offer the longest lifespan, often remaining supportive for 3-5 years, though they may soften somewhat over time.

Shape Retention

One of the strengths of Threshold’s pillow design is its resistance to the permanent deformation that plagues many budget pillows. The down alternative options, in particular, are engineered with resilient fibers that spring back after compression, helping the pillows maintain their loft even with regular use. Memory foam models may develop slight impressions over time but generally maintain their supportive structure well beyond what their price point would suggest.

Addressing Common Wear Issues

If your Threshold pillow begins to flatten, regular fluffing can help redistribute the fill and restore some loft. For down alternative pillows, running them through the dryer with clean tennis balls can reinvigorate the fibers. Memory foam pillows benefit from rotating regularly to distribute wear evenly.

It’s worth noting that all pillows, regardless of brand or price, have finite lifespans. The National Sleep Foundation recommends replacing pillows every 1-2 years for optimal hygiene and support, though higher-quality pillows like Threshold’s premium options may remain serviceable somewhat longer.

Sustainability and Environmental Considerations

As environmental consciousness continues to grow among consumers, pillow materials and manufacturing processes merit consideration. Threshold has made incremental progress in addressing sustainability concerns, though this remains an area with room for further development.

Material Choices

Many Threshold pillows use conventional polyester fill, which is derived from petroleum products and not biodegradable. However, some of their newer offerings incorporate recycled polyester fill made from reclaimed plastic bottles, representing a step toward more sustainable practices. Their cotton covers are increasingly sourced from more sustainable supply chains, though not yet predominantly organic.

Manufacturing Standards

Target has established corporate responsibility standards for all their owned brands, including Threshold. These standards address issues like chemical safety, ethical labor practices, and emissions reduction goals. While not industry-leading in all categories, these baseline standards ensure that Threshold products meet acceptable environmental and social responsibility criteria.

Packaging Considerations

Threshold has been gradually reducing excessive packaging across their product lines, with many pillows now shipped in minimal plastic wrapping rather than box-in-box configurations. Target’s in-store purchasing option also eliminates the carbon footprint associated with individual shipping.

For those prioritizing environmental impact above all else, Threshold may not match the credentials of specialty eco-friendly brands that use organic, biodegradable materials exclusively. However, within their accessible price category, they represent a reasonable middle ground between conventional manufacturing and sustainability efforts.

Are Threshold Pillows Sold in Sets or Individually?

Threshold offers flexibility in purchasing options to accommodate different customer needs:

Sleeping Pillows

Standard sleeping pillows are typically available both individually and in sets of two, with modest bundle discounts applied to the sets. This approach allows customers to either replace a single pillow or update their entire bed at once. King-sized pillows are more commonly sold individually due to their larger dimensions and higher unit cost.

Decorative Pillows

Decorative pillows follow a more varied approach. Solid-colored basics are usually available individually and in coordinating sets, while more distinctive designs or seasonal patterns might be sold exclusively as standalone pieces or as part of curated collections. During home décor promotions, Target often offers mix-and-match deals on Threshold decorative pillows (such as “buy 2, get 1 free”), encouraging customers to create personalized combinations.

Value Packs

For budget-conscious shoppers furnishing a new home or refreshing multiple bedrooms, Threshold occasionally offers larger value packs containing four or more standard pillows at further reduced per-unit pricing. These larger bundles typically feature basic polyester fill pillows rather than premium options.

The flexibility to purchase either individual pillows or coordinated sets represents an advantage over some competitor brands that only offer pillows in pairs or sets, forcing customers to buy more than they might need.

The Sleep Health Connection: Pain Relief and Better Rest

Beyond basic comfort, the right pillow can significantly impact overall sleep quality and physical well-being. Threshold has developed several specialized pillows designed to address common sleep-related discomforts.

Back and Shoulder Pain Relief

For those suffering from upper back and shoulder tension, Threshold offers contoured support pillows designed to promote proper spinal alignment during sleep. These ergonomic designs help distribute weight more evenly, reducing pressure points that can exacerbate existing pain or create new tension areas.

Their medium-firm support options with consistent loft help maintain neutral positioning throughout the night, preventing the head from dropping too far back or tilting too far forward—both positions that can strain the cervical spine and surrounding muscles.

Temperature Regulation and Sleep Quality

Sleep researchers have established that maintaining a slightly cool body temperature promotes deeper, more restorative sleep. Recognizing this connection, Threshold has incorporated cooling technologies into several of their premium pillow options. These cooling features include gel-infused memory foam, breathable cover materials like Tencel or bamboo derivatives, and ventilated designs that promote air circulation.

Stress Reduction Through Comfort

The psychological comfort provided by a supportive, pleasant-feeling pillow shouldn’t be underestimated. Many Threshold customers report that upgrading from worn-out pillows to fresh, supportive options improves their ability to relax at bedtime and reduces anxiety about sleep quality. This psychological benefit complements the physical advantages of proper support.

Conclusion: Are Threshold Pillows Worth Buying?

After examining Threshold pillows from every angle—materials, support, durability, price, and customer satisfaction—a clear value proposition emerges. These Target-exclusive pillows offer an impressive balance of quality, comfort, and affordability that makes them worthy of consideration for most shoppers.

For budget-conscious consumers seeking to upgrade their sleep without investing hundreds in premium bedding, Threshold pillows represent an excellent middle ground. Their down alternative options, in particular, deliver a luxurious feel that rivals much more expensive alternatives, while their memory foam offerings provide targeted support at accessible price points.

The brand’s greatest strength lies in delivering 80-90% of the performance of high-end brands at 30-50% of the cost, making quality sleep more democratically available. While they may lack some of the cutting-edge technologies or exotic materials of luxury brands, the practical comfort and durability they provide satisfy the needs of most sleepers.

Whether you’re outfitting a guest room, refreshing your master bedroom, or adding decorative accents to your living space, Threshold pillows offer reliable performance that exceeds expectations for their price category. In the world of affordable home goods, they stand as a testament to the fact that comfortable, restful sleep doesn’t have to come with a luxury price tag.