You wake up in the morning, and instead of feeling refreshed, you’re groggy and congested. You’re not sick, but you are allergic to something lurking in your bedding, specifically, your pillow. Allergens like dust mites, mold, and mildew thrive in traditional pillows, and when you sleep, they can trigger allergy symptoms that rob you of restful slumber. Hypoallergenic pillows can help you breathe easier and sleep better by reducing your exposure to these allergens. But what are hypoallergenic pillows made of? This article will answer that question and reveal how choosing a pillow with allergy-resistant materials can help you wake up without irritation.
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What are Hypoallergenic Pillows?
About 5% of the U.S. population tests positive for one or more allergens. That’s 50 million Americans who suffer from symptoms that can range from annoying to life-threatening. Allergies are such a pain in America’s ass that the allergy treatment and management market generates annual revenues of over 6 billion dollars.
Pillow manufacturers want a share of that wonderful revenue, so they frequently market their products as hypoallergenic. These claims resonate with consumers. If you’ve experienced any inconvenience related to allergies, a hypoallergenic pillow may sound like a smart purchase, as it can help prevent potential allergic reactions.
There are so Many Hypoallergenic Pillow Choices
Currently, 10% of the bed pillows available on Amazon.com include the term "hypoallergenic" in their descriptions. Every popular type of pillow claims to be hypoallergenic, including:
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Down pillow
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Memory foam pillows
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Poly foam pillows
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Buckwheat pillows
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Microbead pillows
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Latex pillows
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Water pillows
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Kapok pillows
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Millet hull pillows
The fact that all these different pillows claim to have hypoallergenic qualities suggests that there’s a little bullshit in the air.
What Is a Hypoallergenic Pillow Anyway?
Unfortunately, calling any product hypoallergenic is a relatively hollow claim. That’s because no regulation in the United States defines or governs the use of the term. Consequently, hypoallergenic pillows can be advertised with impunity.
The Truth Behind "Hypoallergenic" Labels
Pillows that are no better or worse at resisting allergens are labeled hypoallergenic without consequence. A medical dictionary provides a somewhat vague definition:
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“Hypoallergenic” – Adjective
A term applied to a preparation in which every possible care has been taken in formulation and production to ensure a minimum instance of allergic reactions. – Blakiston’s Medical Dictionary
Are Hypoallergenic Pillow Claims Just Marketing?
Has “every possible care been taken” to prevent allergic reactions in these hypoallergenic products? Some descriptions of hypoallergenic pillows are rather cryptic and vague. On the other hand, some explain in detail the supposed hypoallergenic benefits and how they are achieved.
They cite specific manufacturing techniques or have detailed scientific explanations that can be rather convincing. For example, down pillow filling (often unfairly characterized as allergen-prone) is sometimes described as having been washed to remove the goose dander.
Studies Cast Doubt on Hypoallergenic Pillow Claims
Unfortunately, no comprehensive study exists that shows any single type of pillow being more (or less) effective at preventing allergic reactions. The scientific studies comparing hypoallergenic bedding products yield contradictory and inconclusive results.
Get this, allergists at Ohio State University found that some so-called hypoallergenic pillows might be less effective than traditional feather pillows.
Why “Anti-Allergy” Pillows Might Backfire
“… side-by-side tests of pillow types show that so-called “anti-allergy” pillows can cause more allergic reactions than feather pillows. It is a widely held belief that feather pillows cause allergic reactions, but studies show that the porous materials used in some synthetic pillows can actually retain more mold and dust mites than feather pillows.” – LiveScience.com
A lack of consistent evidence makes it challenging to determine the most suitable type of hypoallergenic pillow. In that case, I recommend you tune out the confusing hypoallergenic noise.
Dust Mites Are the True Allergy Menace
Dust mites are one of the top five most common allergens. The effects of dust mite allergy are very similar to those of a pollen allergy, except that the symptoms occur year-round instead of just during certain seasons.
Dust mites are microscopic creatures, about 0.4 millimeters in length, that feast on flakes of human skin. Their feces contain a substance called DerP1, a very potent allergen. “People who are allergic to dust mites may have asthma-like symptoms, eczema, or chronic sinus problems.” – NYTimes.com
Is It the Pillow or Dust Mites?
If you’re experiencing an allergic reaction to a pillow that you’ve been using for a while, chances are you’re allergic to dust mites, not the pillow itself. That said, while dust mite allergies are common, it’s not always obvious. This ambiguity benefits hypoallergenic pillow manufacturers.
Consumers’ uncertainty about allergen facts makes their broad claims of hypoallergenic benefits look very appealing. You might be allergic to dust mites if you experience any of the following symptoms:
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Headaches
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Congestion
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Scratchy eyes
Allergy Test or Marketing Trap?
To be sure, you can take an allergy test. Most insurers will cover the cost, and the procedure typically takes only about an hour to complete.
Hypoallergenic pillows are not immune to dust mites. All pillows, with use, will accumulate particles of organic material from your body that dust mites crave. Every night you sleep on your pillow, you leave behind delicious dead skin for dust mites and their families!
What Can You Do to Avoid Dust Mites?
Lower the humidity in your home. Dust mites only appear in humid environments. You’re not likely to have dust mites if your home is kept with a relative humidity of less than 50%.
The Pros and Cons of Dust Mite Covers
Use dust mite covers. These are generally vinyl or plastic covers that prevent foreign materials from getting inside your pillow. While most experts recommend them, they are still somewhat controversial.
An unfortunate drawback to dust mite covers is that they will prevent air from moving freely through your pillow. This can result in it retaining heat and being uncomfortable. Take extra care to keep your pillows clean and fresh. Wash your pillowcase frequently, and if possible, your pillow as well.
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What are Hypoallergenic Pillows Made of?
Hypoallergenic pillows resist allergens by using specific materials in their fill. Popular types of fill include latex, memory foam, down alternative, wool, polyester, and microfiber.
Latex
Natural latex is derived from the sap of rubber trees. It has become a popular bedding material due to its durability, breathability, bounciness, and resistance to microbes. People who are allergic to latex should avoid using a latex pillow, even if it’s marketed as hypoallergenic.
Latex pillows typically offer a springy feel, excellent temperature regulation, and moderate contouring to the head and neck. Products made with natural or organic latex tend to lack the off-gassing odors that are common with other types of foam, which can be a significant selling point for people with sensitivities to chemical smells.
Memory Foam
Memory foam pillows consist of shredded or solid foam that provides exceptional contouring to cushion the head and neck. While memory foam can resist specific allergens, it can attract dust, so it’s helpful to take care to prevent the buildup of dust mites and dirt. Foam pillows often emit odors when first unpackaged. Although the smell usually fades within a few days, people who are sensitive to smells may be bothered by this aspect of memory foam pillows.
Memory foam’s contouring nature tends to lead to more heat retention, so many companies infuse the foam with gel designed to create a cooling pillow for hot sleepers. Since memory foam is generally not machine-washable, a pillow protector is recommended to keep it clean and maintain its quality.
Down Alternative
As its name suggests, down alternative is designed to mimic the light, fluffy texture of down feathers by using synthetic fibers. Common down alternative materials include polyester and microfiber. Down alternative is a popular choice for individuals who are allergic to down and those who prefer a pillow that is easy to maintain.
Down alternative pillows are typically machine-washable and offer an affordable, comfortable alternative to more expensive options, such as latex and natural down. Down alternative is unlikely to trigger allergic reactions, but its loose fill may harbor dust mites. Regular washing and using a pillow protector can help prevent dust mites from accumulating.
Wool
Wool is a durable fiber sourced from sheep that is naturally resistant to dust mites and bacteria. It’s an effective insulator for all seasons thanks to its moisture-wicking capabilities that also limit the development of mold and mildew. Wool’s ability to absorb moisture without feeling damp may benefit people who perspire at night.
Polyester
Polyester pillows appeal to many people because they are usually plush, affordable, and versatile. Synthetic fibers resist allergens and can create a light and fluffy feel, although they tend to compress over time, becoming less supportive. Polyester’s loose texture can attract dust mites, so it is recommended to wash it regularly.
You may need to replace a polyester pillow more frequently than other types of pillows because polyester isn’t as durable as materials like latex, foam, and wool. On a positive note, polyester generally stays cooler than memory foam and rarely has any off-gassing odors. Additionally, some polyester pillows can be customized by adding or removing fill.
Microfiber
Microfiber is a lightweight, synthetic material composed of fine, synthetic fibers. It’s a relatively new bedding fabric that has gained popularity for its soft feel, affordability, and ease of care. Microfiber is most often made using polyester as its base material, though nylon is also used in some varieties.
Although lightweight, it lacks the breathability of natural materials. In a hypoallergenic pillow, microfiber offers a plush surface that dries quickly. Microfiber pillows typically withstand regular laundering in a washing machine, making them relatively easy to keep clean, requiring minimal time and effort.
Do Hypoallergenic Pillows Reduce Allergies?
Hypoallergenic pillows can minimize allergic reactions for some people, though they don’t eradicate allergies themselves. These pillows are designed to reduce the buildup of allergens by using specific materials in the fill or cover.
That said, the effectiveness of hypoallergenic pillows depends on factors like regular care, the cleanliness of your bedroom, and your specific sensitivities. With multiple materials to choose from, one type of hypoallergenic pillow works better for you than another.
How to Choose the Best Hypoallergenic Pillow for You
When choosing a pillow, several essential factors to consider include loft, firmness, temperature regulation, material quality, and ease of care. We’ll discuss each of these in more detail to help you make an informed decision.
Firmness
A pillow’s firmness affects how your head will sink into it and is linked with the overall support a pillow provides. Optimal firmness is subjective, though side sleepers tend to enjoy firmer pillows, while stomach sleepers typically opt for softer models, and back sleepers often prefer a mid-range firmness level.
Hypoallergenic pillows are available in various levels of firmness. Firm pillows may be less likely to trap allergens and bacteria because they don’t fold and crease as much as plusher versions. With regular cleaning and maintenance, any hypoallergenic pillow can be kept clean to help eliminate allergens.
Fill Material
The type of fill material directly impacts a pillow’s feel, performance, and price. For example, some materials provide better temperature regulation, more cushioning, or a lower price tag.
Although they can be hypoallergenic in general, certain fill materials, such as latex, may still trigger allergic reactions in some individuals. For this reason, it’s essential to examine the fill material and the fabric of the pillow cover closely to find a pillow that is safe for you.
Cover Material
In addition to the fill, you should look closely at how the cover or shell of the pillow is constructed. The cover may be tightly woven to keep dust and allergens out, or it may have a more open weave to permit airflow. Some cover materials are more breathable or add softness, which may factor into the overall performance of the pillow. In some cases, you may use an encasement or pillow protector that goes over the entire pillow.
Size
Choosing an appropriately sized pillow is crucial for optimal comfort and support, and it can also significantly impact the effectiveness of a hypoallergenic pillow. An overly large pillow has more surface area that can accumulate dust, and it may be more work to clean. You should also consider the size of your bed and make sure your pillows are a good fit.
Loft
Loft is another word for a pillow’s thickness or height. Your primary sleep position will largely determine the appropriate loft. Side sleepers usually need a high-loft pillow. Back sleepers typically prefer a medium loft, while stomach sleepers generally require a low-loft option.
A pillow’s firmness level also relates to the loft. For instance, a high-loft pillow that is soft will compress when being used, reducing its height and affecting the amount of neck support it provides.
Ease of Care
Hypoallergenic pillows require regular cleaning, so it’s advisable to purchase one that fits seamlessly into your lifestyle. If you skip washing your pillow because of the inconvenience, it will accumulate dirt and allergens. Many hypoallergenic pillows are machine washable, but some materials require spot cleaning to avoid damaging the pillow.
Quality Materials
A hypoallergenic pillow made with high-end materials may help prevent allergens from building up inside the pillow. Most shells or covers are constructed with a tight weave that acts as a barrier against dust mites and other contaminants. Quality materials are also more comfortable and durable.
Temperature Regulation
A pillow that effectively regulates temperature can minimize perspiration and keep you cool and comfortable. Materials like memory foam are more prone to retaining heat than latex or wool.
Besides offering temperature regulation, some cooling materials can wick away moisture, which may prevent the growth of mold or mildew that can irritate breathing conditions or trigger allergies.
Price
Hypoallergenic pillows have varying price points depending on their materials and construction. To shop effectively, be sure to consider your budget and determine the most suitable price range. This will narrow your options and help you find the best pillow for you. In general, we recommend buying the highest-quality pillow you can afford to get the most return on your investment.
Sleeping Position
Your primary sleep position influences the amount of support you need and the type of pillow that is most comfortable. Side sleepers typically require the most support because of the increased distance between their head and the sleep surface. With this in mind, side sleepers may prefer a hypoallergenic pillow with more loft, made with latex or memory foam.
Back sleepers and particularly stomach sleepers want to avoid excessive pillow height that can strain their necks, so that they may benefit from a lower-loft model with a softer material, such as:
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Down alternative
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Polyester
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Microfiber
Pressure Relief
Besides minimizing allergens, a hypoallergenic pillow should also provide adequate pressure relief by cushioning sensitive areas of the head and neck. Pain and discomfort can disrupt sleep, and poor sleep may impair the immune system that guards against illness.
When shopping, look for a hypoallergenic pillow that can both protect against allergens and support your body, allowing you to get healthy rest.
Related Reading
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- How Do Dust Mite Covers Work
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11 Best Hypoallergenic Pillows to Help You Breathe Easier
1. Brooklyn Bedding Talalay Pillow
With the ideal amount of comfortable, durable support and an affordable cost, the Brooklyn Bedding Talalay Latex Pillow was an easy choice for the best overall hypoallergenic pillow based on our testing.
It’s made with Talalay latex, which Shelby Harris, PsyD, clinical associate professor of neurology and psychiatry at Albert Einstein College of Medicine and director of sleep health at Sleepopolis, says is a naturally hypoallergenic material that’s resistant to dust mites and mold.
Soft, Supportive, but Not Adjustable
In testing, the Brooklyn pillow performed well in terms of durability and support, bouncing back into place quickly. We also appreciated the pillow’s overall softness, as well as the removable cover for easy washing, which helps further reduce allergens.
The only downside is that it’s not adjustable, and we would have preferred it to be a little thicker. If you’re a stomach or back sleeper, it might be perfect for you, but it could be too thin for some side sleepers. Still, for $89 (far less than the most expensive pillow on this list), we think it’s an excellent option for most people.
It’s Worth Noting
When we tested this as a side sleeper, it lacked a little loft and padding. The ability to add extra filling to this pillow would make it a more comprehensive choice for all types of sleepers seeking a latex pillow for nighttime allergies.
Product Details:
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Sizes: Queen, King
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Filling material: Latex
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Firmness: Medium
2. Saatva Latex Pillow
The Saatva Latex Pillow is the most expensive option on our list, priced at $165. Still, for notoriously picky side sleepers, the option to choose a pillow with a lower or higher loft, based on your body size, makes the Saatva worth considering. We tested this pillow at a loft of six to seven inches, which Saatva recommends for side and combination sleepers, or anyone who prefers a plush feel.
Plush, Supportive, and Built to Last
We felt the pillow’s plushness during testing, as it conformed closely to our head and neck, providing all-around support and comfort. We did very little tossing and turning with this pillow, thanks to how breathable it is and how well it maintained its loft during the night with no need for refluffing or repositioning.
It’s plump and heavy, almost like a weighted pillow, but it bounced back into place quickly and held its shape exceptionally well. Yes, it’s a splurge, but if you’re a side sleeper who’s never been happy with your pillow before, the Saatva Latex Pillow might finally help you sleep comfortably.
It’s Worth Noting
This pillow wasn’t the easiest to wash; the instructions stated that you could dry the pillowcase on low, but ours shrank when we followed this method in testing, and it was moderately difficult to put the pillowcase back on afterward. If you plan to wash your pillowcase frequently to reduce allergens, it can be cumbersome.
Product Details:
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Sizes: Standard/queen, king
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Filling material: Latex and polyester fibers
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Firmness: Medium
3. Birch by Helix Organic Pillow
The Birch by Helix Organic Pillow, crafted from organic cotton, latex, and wool, is free from allergy-inducing chemicals and dyes, according to Dr. Harris, and offers a medium-firm feel that is ideal for most sleepers.
Moldable, Springy, and Luxuriously Built
In testing, we appreciated this pillow’s unique features, such as its loose, shredded latex fill, which differs from the solid piece of latex found in similar pillows, and its surprising ability to compress under pressure or bend in half before returning to its original shape.
Because of the springy, loose fill, the Birch could be molded into virtually any shape and suit a variety of sleepers. Overall, the organic materials give it a luxury hotel feeling. Though it’s not exactly priced for a low budget at $149, we thought it was worth the investment for the quality of construction.
It’s Worth Noting
The combination of the cotton pillow cover and the inner wool made this pillow run pretty warm, and it wasn’t the softest surface to sleep on, either. The materials also come with “spot clean only” instructions for both the pillow and cover, limiting your ability to launder away allergen buildup.
Product Details:
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Sizes: Standard, king
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Filling material: Latex and wool
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Firmness: Soft, medium, firm, etc.
4. Plush Beds Shredded Latex Pillow
In testing, the Plush Beds Shredded Latex Pillow wasn’t perfect. Still, it excelled in specific areas: it molded snugly around our head, providing comfortable, cradled support, and remained relatively calm with use.
It’s also adjustable; you can add or remove the shredded latex filling to fit your sleeping position. When we tested it as a hard-to-please stomach sleeper, we were pleasantly surprised to find that we could achieve the ideal thickness by removing approximately one-fifth of the filling that came with it.
It’s Worth Noting
The adjustability process is messy: the shredded fill gets everywhere and sticks to surfaces. For $99, we would buy this pillow for ourselves at this price or on sale, but probably wouldn’t spend any more on it.
Unlike the loose fill of the Birch by Helix Organic Pillow, the Plush Beds Shredded Latex Pillow does not bounce back into place after compression. We could easily fluff it into shape again, but if you hate re-fluffing and reshaping your pillow during the night, this might not be the pillow for you.
Product Details:
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Sizes: Standard, queen, king
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Filling material: Latex
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Firmness: Medium
5. The Company Store Contour Support Latex Pillow
In addition to a contoured edge that provides extra comfort for side sleepers, the Company Store Contour Support Latex Pillow features a breathable, quilted cover, enhancing the pillow’s overall comfort for sleep. At $119, it’s a mid-priced option, but its specialized design and high-quality construction make it worth a bit more, especially since our durability testing suggested it would likely last a long time.
Compression and reshaping had little to no effect on this pillow; it held its own against our weight testing and returned to its original shape immediately after being bent in half vertically and horizontally.
It’s Worth Noting
The best sleeping position for this pillow is on your side. Although it may be too thick for stomach sleepers and too firm for back sleepers, its contoured shape is specifically designed to make side sleeping more comfortable and ergonomic.
Product Details:
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Sizes: One size
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Filling material: Latex
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Firmness: Medium
6. Elite Rest Slim Sleeper Thin Latex Pillow
At less than three inches thick, the Elite Rest Slim Sleeper pillow is designed for people who sleep on their stomachs and need proper spinal alignment. Pillows with a high loft can tilt the upper back, neck, and shoulders too far up off the mattress, causing pain for stomach sleepers. The Slim Sleeper provides stable support without excessive loft.
Budget-Friendly Pillow Best for Back Sleepers
In testing, our experience was somewhat mixed; we preferred this pillow for back sleeping over stomach sleeping. Although that preference may vary from person to person, the lack of adjustability limits the number of people who’ll find this pillow comfortable to sleep on.
Still, it held up well when compressed and bent in multiple ways, showing no signs of wear. At just $44, it’s the most affordable option on our list, making it suitable for many budgets.
It’s Worth Noting
At this thickness and without any adjustability, it’s only suitable for stomach and back sleepers; side sleepers wouldn’t be supported enough during the night.
Product Details:
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Sizes: One size
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Filling material: Latex
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Firmness: Soft
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Machine-washable: Cover only
7. Turmerry Molded Solid Latex Pillow
At first glance, it doesn’t seem like the Turmerry Molded Solid Latex Pillow would have a significant effect on sleeping temperature, but Dr. Harris notes that it’s perforated to allow for extra airflow, giving it the potential to help keep hot sleepers cooler and more comfortable throughout the night.
Cool, Supportive, and Budget-Friendly
In testing, we observed that the cooling effect was in action; it didn’t appear to retain our body heat, with the center of the pillow maintaining the same temperature as the edges, even when we rested our head on it for several minutes.
The Turmerry also proved resilient and supportive, being firm yet not too firm, and flexible enough for multiple sleeping positions. For less than $100, it’s a good choice for hot sleepers who want the durability and comfort of a latex pillow.
It’s Worth Noting
The cover was difficult to put on and take off, and a few small pieces of latex fell out when we removed the pillow from its case. It also had a slight latex odor, which was noticeable when we tested it on our skin, particularly on our sides and stomach.
Product Details:
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Sizes: Standard, queen, king
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Filling material: Latex
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Firmness: Soft, medium, or firm
8. Organic Textiles Natural Latex Pillow
It can be challenging to find a pillow that accommodates changes in sleeping position during the night. Still, the Organic Textiles Natural Latex Pillow with Organic Cotton Outer Covering is flexible enough to suit stomach, side, and back sleepers. It adapted to weight with minimal sinking or compression, and its extra-springy construction allowed it to pop right back into shape after being bent and folded.
Its overall size and shape are pretty standard, but that’s another reason it adapts so easily to different sleep positions; it’s not designed to prioritize one position over another, like a slim stomach pillow or a contoured pillow. It’s not adjustable, but we were able to mold and manipulate it sufficiently during testing to adjust its firmness, which allowed us to become more comfortable in various positions.
It’s Worth Noting
In testing, we found this pillow to be a little too springy, as it did not always provide sufficient firm or stiff support when we changed sleep positions. But that’s largely personal preference; some sleepers, especially side sleepers, may appreciate the added bounce in their pillow.
Product Details:
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Sizes: Standard, queen, king, travel
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Filling material: Latex
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Firmness: Medium
9. Buffy Cloud Pillow
The Buffy Cloud Pillow is made from recycled and sustainably sourced materials, making it an excellent choice for eco-minded shoppers on a budget. You can also choose from three firmness levels, which made it a standout option among our testers.
How It Performed
The Buffy Cloud Pillow is available in soft, medium, and firm options, which appealed to our testers across various sleeping positions. The softest model earned its highest ratings from our stomach sleepers under 230 pounds who prefer their heads to sink deeper into the pillow.
Our side and back sleepers under 230 pounds found the medium model’s balanced feel the most comfortable. Meanwhile, the firm model provided excellent support to side sleepers, helping them maintain healthy sleep postures.
Moldable Comfort and Cooling for Snug Sleepers
Thanks to the fiberfill, the pillow is quite moldable. This makes it great for sleepers who prefer to snuggle a pillow at night or move the fill around for extra support.
The fiberfill and breathable cover also help regulate the pillow’s internal and surface temperatures. Hot sleepers on our team reported minimal heat buildup when sleeping with this pillow.
What It’s Made Of
The pillow’s interior features PET fibers made from recycled water bottles. The fibers give the pillow a lofty feel that contours to the neck, offering a down-like feel without triggering allergy symptoms. A breathable Tencel lyocell shell in a silky sateen weave encases the pillow.
The material is also naturally moisture-wicking, so people who sweat at night or live in humid climates should feel comfortable and dry throughout the night. The pillow can only be spot cleaned or dry cleaned, so Buffy recommends using a washable pillowcase.
Moisture-Wicking with a Risk-Free Trial
Buffy offers free shipping for customers living in the contiguous U.S. You have seven days to test the pillow before you’re charged. After the trial period, the Cloud Pillow is backed by a 50-night return period.
10. Quince Premium Down Alternative Pillow
The Quince Premium Down Alternative Pillow offers excellent contouring for the neck without causing the head to sink too deeply. Our testers singled out the pillow for its affordable price point, which is significantly lower than that of some competing pillows we’ve tried.
How It Performed
The pillow comes in two firmness options, soft/medium and medium/firm. The smooth to medium setting was popular with our back sleepers, as it deeply cradled the head while maintaining just enough support to ensure proper elevation. Some stomach sleepers also found this option comfortable.
The firmer option appealed to side sleepers, who appreciated the extra support to keep the head, neck, and spine in alignment. The pillow performed exceptionally well in our temperature regulation tests. The down alternative stays cool, and the breathable cotton cover helps reduce heat buildup on the surface.
What It’s Made Of
Down alternative microfiber fill makes up the pillow’s core. The fill mimics the cloud-like feel of down but is not sourced from animals. The cotton cover features a sateen weave, producing a silky-soft feel.
You may machine wash the pillow in cold water on a gentle cycle, then machine dry on a low heat setting. The pillow is available in standard or king-size options. Quince offers free shipping throughout all 50 states. You’ll also receive a generous 365-night sleep trial.
11. Avocado Green Pillow
Sleepers willing to spend a bit more on a hypoallergenic pillow made with certified organic materials will appreciate the Avocado Green Pillow. The pillow boasts Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) and Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS) certifications, ensuring the materials were responsibly sourced and produced.
How It Performed
The Green Pillow’s adjustable loft and medium firmness level felt comfortable for many of our testers. Our side and back sleepers appreciated the generous cushioning for the neck, and the adjustable loft allowed them to pick a height that best supported the neck and shoulders. Some stomach sleepers may also enjoy the pillow, but those over 230 pounds may find that the latex’s density causes the neck to crane into an uncomfortable position.
Temperature regulation was one of the pillow’s major strengths. Hot sleepers on our team found the shredded fill materials encouraged internal airflow, while the breathable cover kept the surface cool to the touch. Our heat guns also detected minimal heat retention on the surface.
Pressure Relief with a Hint of Latex Odor
Those with aches and pains in their necks should also appreciate the pillow’s contouring, which helps alleviate pressure buildup. We found the latex had a slight odor after unboxing, but it shouldn’t trigger allergies. If you are especially sensitive to smells, leaving the pillow in a well-ventilated room for a few hours should help odors dissipate quickly.
What It’s Made Of
The Green Pillow is made from a blend of 70% shredded latex and 30% kapok fibers. Together, these materials offer a plush surface for the head and neck without sacrificing responsive support. The fill materials are encased in an organic jersey cotton inner liner.
The pillow’s outer cover is made from quilted organic cotton and is machine washable for easy care. Wash the cover in cold water and hang it to dry. Avocado recommends spot-cleaning the pillow insert.
Free Shipping and 100-Night Trial
Shipping is free to customers in all 50 states. Avocado offers a 100-night sleep trial, during which you can test the pillow and return it for a full refund. If you decide to keep the Green Pillow, the brand backs it with a one-year manufacturer’s warranty.
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