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Reading up on Domino’s shopping guides is like having your own personal product concierge. We do the tedious part—deep-dive research, hands-on testing, and tapping experts for advice—so all you have to do is hit “add to cart.” That’s why we call them Simply the Best.

The difference between a subpar soak and a moment of self-care in the bath comes down to building a truly relaxing environment. An essential for your most soothing dip? A bath pillow. Without a comfy, sturdy surface to lean on, bubbles and a calming candle and a great book only go so far. There are a ton of options out there, and the search can feel a bit like picking bed pillows: What level of support should the pillow have? Do you need one that massages? (An easy yes from us.) We’ve scoured the market and put together a list based on material, support, and maintenance. Grab one of the best bath pillows below, turn on the tap, and enjoy. 

Our Favorites

Best Overall: Monsuri Bath Pillow

monsuri
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Water-resistant: Yes  | Quick drying: Yes |  Product care: Machine washable

What we like:

  • Nonslip
  • Thick mesh cushioning
  • Attached hook for easy drying

Worth noting:

  • Limited color palette
  • A bit narrow

Why we chose it: It is comfy, stays put, and dries quickly—the bath pillow trifecta. 

When you envision a classic bath pillow, this one is it. It’s simple and understated, and the extra-thick padding offers ample support for your back and shoulders, and cradles your head and neck—a more comfy option than some of the thinner pillows on the market. You’re not relying on your back to keep it in place either—six suction cups on the backside keep you from slipping around when you’re trying to sit back. 

Best Inflatable: Formentera Inflatable Head Cushion 

Formentera
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Water-resistant: Yes | Quick drying: Yes |  Product care: N/A 

What we like:

  • Bright, colorful pattern
  • Can double as a poolside/beach pillow

Worth noting:

  • Nothing on the cushion to keep from slipping
  • It mainly supports the head (rather than the shoulders and neck, too)

Why we chose it: Adds fun color to your tub—and it’s pool bag–ready.

It’s all about the aesthetics of this inflatable cushion—ideal for carefully curated bathtub content. And since this one is inflatable, it’s easy to take on the go. Throw it in your beach or pool tote; you could even pack one in a suitcase for a getaway weekend. Something to consider: The inflatable offers mainly head support, so the cushion may be best suited for shorter soaks. 

Best Headrest: Victoria & Albert Napoli Headrest

VA Napoli
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Water-resistant: Yes | Quick drying: Yes |  Product care: Clean with soap and water

What we like:

  • Sturdy
  • Installed over a tub side, so stays in place

Worth noting:

  • Made of plastic

Why we chose it: It Lets you focus on the task at hand (total zen) without your head slipping. 

For some, having a soft, thick pillow is less important than always having a reliable, sturdy spot to relax in the bath. This headrest is for those people. It requires installation, which means that the black plastic finish will be a constant in your tub—but in the right bathroom, it would look modern and intentional. 

Best Over-the-Side: Decor Walther Bath Pillow 

tattahome
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Water-resistant: Repellant | Quick drying: No |  Product care: Machine washable

What we like:

  • Elevated enough to leave on display
  • Available in chic neutrals
  • Suction support

Worth noting:

  • Not supersoft material
  • It may take longer to dry

Why we chose it: Elevates your surroundings for a spalike feel. 

Some over-the-side bath pillows rely on just straps to keep them in place. This one works double duty, with over-the-side straps and two suction cups, so the nylon pillow stays put. The colors (mocha brown, gray, black, cream) and simple design lend a more spa-esque feel than other bulkier options.

Best Mini Massager: Beurer MG13 Massage Spa Pillow

Beurer
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Water-resistant: Yes | Quick drying: N/A  |  Product care: Machine washable 

What we like:

  • Vibrating massage targets the neck and shoulders
  • One-touch start
  • Strong suction holds it in place

Worth noting:

  • Battery operated (2 are included)
  • Suctions are not great on tile, marble, or travertine

Why we chose it: Next-level relaxation without too much fuss. 

This simple massage pillow adds an entirely new layer of zen to your routine, without any over-the-top details. The small white number is battery operated with two suctions that hold it in place, and comes with a one-touch button for easy operation. Just lean back and enjoy the good vibes—on your neck and shoulders. 

Best Exfoliating:  Mer-Sea & Co. Exfoliating Bath Pillow

Mer Sea and Co
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Water-resistant: Yes | Quick drying: N/A |  Product care: N/A

What we like:

  • Dual-sided for exfoliation and relaxation
  • Gentle scrub

Worth noting:

  • No suction cups
  • Fairly small (mainly used as a headrest)

Why we chose it: A double addition to your bath self-care.

If exfoliation is a regular part of your bath/shower routine, this pillow belongs in your hands (and behind your head!). One side is your standard soft bath pillow, and the other acts as a gentle exfoliator. The light lilac and muslin colors will blend seamlessly with bathroom linens neutral to bright, and it’s small enough to easily tuck away in storage when you’re not using it. 

Best Backrest: Victoria & Albert Anthracite Luxury Backrest

VA Anthracite
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Water-resistant: Yes | Quick drying: Yes |  Product care: Clean with soap and water

What we like:

  • Polished look
  • Supports full back

Worth noting:

  • Heavy (10 pounds)
  • Shouldn’t leave in the tub overnight

Why we chose it: Supports your entire back and is sleek enough to leave on display. 

This modern backrest can double as an accent in the right bathroom. Unlike many others on the market, it skips the traditional cushion and padding for a structured, luxe feel. Another plus? The surface offers enough room to lean your entire back against, so you’re able to sit upright comfortably without having to attempt a balancing act. Since this piece sits against the side of the tub, it’s important to check your bath’s height and length before investing—to make sure it will fit and put you at the right angle. Be mindful to remove this backrest after each use and let it (and the tub!) dry completely before placing it back in. 

How We Chose These Products

The best bath pillows are a balance of form and function (plus cushy to recline on). We scoured the market for pillows, and other surfaces, with an eye toward level of support, multipurpose use (exfoliating, massaging), and no-slip measures. The design also played a premium in deciding what to include—Domino’s style editors weighed in on options that would likely fit in well in many bathrooms. We tapped spa directors at renowned resorts to give us the what, why, and how of support and relaxation—it’s an art, people!

Our Shopping Checklist

Material 

Ideally, your bath pillow or headrest/backrest should be made of a material that is waterproof, to avoid any yellowing or tarnishing from water. It’s important to consider whether the material of the pillow is quick drying as well—so you’re not stuck with a sopping-wet sack the next time you want to get in the tub. Irisha Steele, spa director at Sonoma, California’s Farmhouse Inn, recommends opting for soft, loose, and breathable fabrics in the bathroom, and neutral colors such as white, beige, and soft grays to optimize your leisurely dip.

Support 

When choosing a bath pillow, consider the type of support that makes the most sense for your body. There’s a wide variety of options, ranging from full-back support to a more targeted headrest. Having proper support for your neck and back in the tub is important, Steele says, as it helps reduce tension in your upper back and shoulders. It also lets you maintain the correct posture in the bath and avoid any pain after getting out. 

Cleaning and Maintenance

Many bath pillows are machine washable, but pay attention to whether the entire pillow can be washed or if you need to remove a cover. If yours is made from a hard material, remember to wipe it down after each use. It’s helpful to look for pillows that have some type of hooks attached, so that when you’re finished in the bath, you can hang them for a quicker drying prior to your next soak. 

Ask Domino

Q: So why do I need a bath pillow?

A bath pillow is a waterproof/water-resistant cushion or surface that can be used in your tub to provide support for your back, shoulders, neck, and head—depending on the size and cushioning. Patti Harlan, the lead massage therapist at Four Seasons Oahu, says that “if your tub is not comfortable or in the right position, you may experience soreness—especially if you have problems with your neck and back.” If that’s the case, Harlan recommends choosing a supportive neck pillow and also a cushion to place under your knees for additional support.  

Q: Okay, now that I’ve chosen my bath pillow, what else do I need for a self-care soak?

Add a wood bathtub tray, says Steele: “Your bathroom will instantly feel like a spa, and you will have a place to hold a glass of wine, tea, book, and/or bath accessories.” Some other ideas for bath-time additions: body scrubs, bath salts, and sheet masks. 

Q: How can I prep my bathroom so it becomes a relaxing atmosphere?

“Make a space for you,” advises Four Seasons Oahu spa director Hope Olson. “Which scents do you enjoy? Do you enjoy listening to relaxing music? Create a room that is built for you by listening to your body.” Additionally, you might clear your space of clutter, add some greenery with one of the best hanging plants, and have a warm robe ready, she suggests.  

The Last Word

When you’re choosing a bath pillow, think about the type of support you want (head, neck, shoulders, and more) and consider how your pick will add to a relaxing experience. Choose one that will accommodate your bath-time needs—whether that be a soothing massage or a sturdy headrest.