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Are you tired of tossing and turning at night, struggling to find the perfect organic pillow that offers both comfort and support without compromising your health?
Look no further! Our sleep experts have tested dozens of pillows from some of the best organic bedding brands out there. They’ve evaluated comfort, material quality, durability, and value to bring you the 11 best organic pillows for your best night’s sleep yet.
Best Best Organic Pillows, in a nutshell…
You’re lying in bed, your head resting on a soft, fluffy pillow, ready to drift off into a peaceful slumber. But little do you know, that seemingly innocent pillow you’ve been snuggling up to night after night may be harboring some toxic chemicals that could be slowly eroding your health.
It’s a startling reality that many are unaware of. A lot of pillows out there are often filled with synthetic materials and treated with harsh chemicals. Over time they can release harmful substances like flame retardants, pesticide residues, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air you breathe for hours on end.
These invisible toxins have been linked to a host of health concerns, from allergies and respiratory issues to hormonal imbalances and even cancer. It’s a little bit scary, but it’s better to know what the risks are and to know that there are better options out there.
So whether you like to sleep on your side, your back, your stomach, or maybe all of the above, we’ve got an all-organic option that will keep you comfortable all night long.
What are organic pillows?
Organic pillows are pillows made with certified organic materials like natural latex, organic cotton, or wool. They prioritize eco-friendly production methods and avoid harmful chemicals, to reduce allergies and health concerns. These pillows are also known for their breathability and comfort, making them a good choice for a healthy, deep sleep.
What are the benefits of sleeping on an organic pillow?
Free from Harmful Chemicals
One of the most significant advantages of organic pillows is that they are made without toxic chemicals. You may not have known it, but conventional pillows can contain flame retardants, pesticide residues, formaldehyde, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Since organic pillows are made from only all-natural materials this means you can drift off to sleep knowing you’re not inhaling anything harmful.
Hypoallergenic
If you have sensitive skin or are prone to allergies, organic pillows can be a total game-changer for your skin. Natural materials are gentler on the skin and less likely to cause irritation and breakouts unline synthetic materials like polyester or polyurethane that are known to irritate sensitive skin.
Plus, most organic materials naturally repel dust mites and mildew, which can make all the difference for allergy sufferers. No more sneezing fits or watery, itchy eyes.
Naturally Breathable and Temperature-Regulating
No one likes waking up in a pool of sweat. And when you sleep on an organic pillow, you don’t have to!
Since natural materials are inherently more breathable they allow for better airflow. This helps to regulate your body temperature, keeping you cool and dry throughout the night. Whether you’re a hot sleeper or just appreciate the cool side of a pillow, an organic pillow will help to prevent overheating so you can sleep more deeply.
Antimicrobial Properties
Organic pillows, particularly those made from natural latex are naturally resistant to bacteria, microbes, and other nasties that can cause skin irritation or respiratory issues. With an organic pillow, the air you breathe every night will be cleaner and help to promote better quality sleep.
What are the potential dangers of sleeping on a conventional pillow?
- Flame retardants like polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are commonly used in pillows, especially those made with polyurethane foam. These persistent chemicals can accumulate in your body over time, leading to hormonal disruptions, fertility issues, neurodevelopmental problems, and even cancer.
- Pesticide residues are another concern, as conventional cotton and other natural fibers used in pillows are often grown with synthetic pesticides. Traces of these chemicals can linger in the finished product, exposing you to substances linked to hormone disruption and increased cancer risk.
- Formaldehyde, a known carcinogen used in textile production, can off-gas from pillows, causing respiratory irritation and eye and throat issues. Synthetic fragrances, added to mask chemical odors, can trigger headaches and other symptoms in sensitive individuals.
- Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like ethylene glycol from polyester fibers can also emanate from pillows, causing skin and eye irritation, respiratory problems, and damage to the nervous system and kidneys when inhaled.
Some pillows even contain antimicrobial treatments like triclosan, which can lead to hormone disruption and antibiotic resistance when absorbed through the skin.
Health Risks Associated with Chronic Exposure to These Chemicals
The real danger lies in the chronic, long-term exposure to these toxic substances, especially considering that we spend roughly one-third of our lives with our faces pressed against our pillows. Inhaling these chemicals night after night can take a serious toll on our health.
Respiratory problems, hormone imbalances, fertility issues, neurological effects, and increased cancer risk are just some of the potential consequences of sleeping on a conventional pillow laden with harmful substances.
Children and individuals with pre-existing health conditions or sensitivities may be even more vulnerable to the negative impacts of these chemicals.
Your pillow should be a haven of comfort and rest, not a source of potential harm. The good news is that you don’t have to sacrifice your health for a good night’s sleep.
By opting for certified organic pillows made from natural materials like organic cotton, wool, or latex, you can significantly reduce your exposure to toxic chemicals.
Now’s the perfect time to share our favorite organic pillows. After rigorous testing of over 50 pillows, evaluating factors such as comfort, high-quality natural materials, value, and longevity, the THC team of experts has curated a list of the best organic pillows on the market.
Top Organic Pillow Recommendations for 2024:
These top picks will ensure you get the healthiest and most rejuvenating night’s sleep possible, so you can wake up feeling refreshed and ready to take on the day.
Best Organic Pillows for Side Sleepers
If you’re a side sleeper, you’ll need a supportive and lofty pillow to keep your head and neck aligned with your spine. Organic latex pillows are an excellent choice since they provide firm, contouring support while remaining breathable and holding their shape.
Look for solid or shredded latex fills to find the perfect balance of comfort and support. These materials will mold to your head and neck while allowing for ample airflow. The adjustable loft of these pillows makes it easy to make your pillow just right.
For a softer, cradling feel, consider shredded organic memory foam or ethically-sourced, hypoallergenic down pillows. These materials will gently support your head and neck while providing a plush, cloud-like sensation.
The Happsy Organic Pillow features a customizable, FSC or GOLS-certified latex core covered in a soft, certified organic cotton cover. The adjustable core offers medium-firm support that you can customize to your firmness preferences. Simply add or remove fill to get just the right height.
This pillow caters to various sleep styles but is especially good for side sleepers. Plus, the breathable, organic cotton cover is hypoallergenic, removable, and machine-washable to minimize allergy triggers.
Materials
Soft FSC or GOLS-certified latex core wrapped in organic cotton fabric
Location/Shipping
United States
Living up to its 2023 Good Housekeeping “Best Overall Organic Pillow” title, Naturepedic’s Organic Adjustable Latex Pillow offers a winning combination of comfort and eco-friendliness.
GOTS-certified organic cotton surrounds a GOLS/FSC-certified latex core. The responsive latex filling conforms to your body shape while the adjustable loft is great for those of you who prefer to sleep on their side. The conforming latex promotes proper neck alignment and pressure relief. No stiff necks here!
Plus, the breathable, organic cotton cover with a convenient zipper allows for easy cleaning and further customization of the fill level.
Materials
GOTS-certified organic cotton and GOLS/FSC-certified latex
Location/Shipping
United States
Obasan’s Organic Latex Rubber Pillow is a dream come true for eco-conscious sleepers. Made with 100% organic, hypoallergenic latex, this pillow offers a chemical-free place to rest your head each night. It’s easy to use the zippered cover allows you to adjust the loft and firmness for your perfect fit.
When sleeping on your side this pillow will keep you comfortable and your neck and back supported. Plus, the breathable and temperature-regulating latex keeps you cool and comfortable all night long.
Materials
100% organic shredded rubber (latex) fill
Location/Shipping
Canada, ships worldwide
Craving a comfortable and pressure-free sleep experience? The Crush Organic Shredded Rubber Pillow is exactly what you’re looking for. This luxuriously comfortable pillow boasts 100% GOLS, GOTS, and OEKO-TEX-certified organic materials.
The shredded rubber perfectly conforms to your body shape, offering responsive pressure relief and support throughout the night. You’ll feel like you’re sleeping on a cloud.
Materials
100% organic shredded rubber latex fill and an organic cotton cover
Location/Shipping
United States, ships to the US and Canada.
Side sleepers, you’re going to love this pillow! Essentia’s Comfort Latex Pillow offers the perfect blend of natural comfort and pressure relief so you won’t wake up with a stiff neck or wrenched back.
The all-natural memory foam is made from vegan-friendly hevea milk (rubber tree sap), known for providing top-of-the-line pressure relief. It also happens to be hypoallergenic so you can breathe deeply without having to worry about congestion.
Materials
Natural memory foam made from hevea milk (rubber tree sap) and an organic cotton cover
Location/Shipping
United States, ships to US and Canada.
Best Organic Pillows for Back Sleepers
If you’re a back sleeper you require balanced support and comfort to maintain a neutral spinal alignment. Pillows with organic cotton fill are a fantastic choice, as they provide cushioning with a responsive feel.
Adjustable loft pillows are another excellent option if you are a back sleeper, allowing you to customize the height of your pillow for optimal neck support.
Organic memory foam and kapok pillows are also worth considering, as they relieve pressure points while gently cradling your head and neck. Kapok, a silky, lightweight plant fiber, offers a luxurious and supportive sleep experience.
SavvyRest’s Organic Kapok Pillow cradles your head in pillowy softness. This pillow is filled with naturally soft and breathable organic kapok fibers. If you’re not familiar, Kapok fibers are made from the seed pods of the Kapok tree. They are a luxuriously soft alternative to traditional down. If you have an allergy to down, this pillow is a great alternative.
GOTS and GOLS0certified, you can sleep peacefully knowing you’re resting your head on the highest quality organic and non-toxic materials. This pillow also has adjustable fill so you can make it softer or firmer depending on whether you sleep on your side, back, or stomach.
Materials
Organic kapok fiber fill and organic cotton cover
Location/Shipping
United States
Say goodbye to restless nights with My Green Mattress’s Charcoal Infused Latex Pillow.
Charcoal may not be the first material you’d think of for creating a comfortable pillow, but this innovative material combines the natural, supportive comfort of GOLS and GOTS-certified latex with the purifying power of charcoal.
The charcoal helps absorb moisture and control odors. This means a cooler, fresher sleep experience all night long.
Materials
Natural latex infused with charcoal and an organic cotton cover
Location/Shipping
United States
Avocado’s Organic Luxury Plush Pillow is just as great as Avocado’s incredibly comfortable mattresses.
Each organic pillow is lovingly handcrafted from GOLS-certified organic latex wrapped in a breathable GOTS-certified organic cotton cover. The combination perfectly conforms to your head for the best night’s sleep ever.
This pillow is ideal for side and back sleepers since the latex filling conforms to your body shape. This creates exceptional pressure relief and proper head and neck support.
Plus, the natural breathability of the organic latex promotes a cool and comfortable sleep experience throughout the night.
Materials
GOLS organic certified latex rubber fill and GOTS organic certified cotton cover
Location/Shipping
United States, ships to US and Canada
Best Organic Pillows For Stomach Sleepers
If you’re a stomach sleeper, you’ll need a low-profile pillow to prevent neck strain. Flatter, denser pillows made of organic cotton are ideal as they provide breathable, cooling comfort without excessive lift.
For stomach sleepers who prefer a slight elevation, thin latex pillows offer a bit of supportive lift while still maintaining a low profile.
Experience a blissful sleep with the GOTS Organic Cotton Sleep Pillow from White Lotus. Filled with 100% USDA-certified organic cotton grown without pesticides, these pillows cradle you in natural softness and provide breathable support for comfortable sleep in any position. But the profile of this pillow is low enough for stomach sleepers.
Since organic cotton is hypoallergenic and dust mite-resistant this pillow is ideal for allergy sufferers. Plus, finding your ideal comfort is easy with a variety of available sizes to suit your needs and firmness preferences.
Materials
100% USDA-certified organic cotton fill and cover
Location/Shipping
United States, ships products worldwide
Craving a luxurious and eco-friendly sleep experience? Look no further than Lifekind’s Certified Organic Spiral Wool Pillow.
This USA-made pillow is made from 100% GOTS-certified organic wool fill, which is surprisingly comfortable and responsive. And if you sleep hot, the wool will help you to keep cool with its natural temperature-regulating properties.
Wool is also naturally flame-retardant and dust-mite-resistant. Perfect if you suffer from asthma or allergies.
You can choose from light, medium, or full loft options to find your perfect level of support. The breathable organic cotton cover is removable for easy cleaning.
Materials
100% GOTS-certified organic wool fill and organic cotton cover
Location/Shipping
United States
Best Organic Pillows for Combination Sleepers
Combination sleepers, who change positions frequently throughout the night, will benefit from adjustable pillows with a variety of density options. Pillows with removable fill allow you to customize the height and firmness to suit your changing needs.
Having both a low and high-loft organic pillow on hand can provide the versatility needed for combination sleepers.
Organic latex or kapok pillows are also excellent choices for combination sleepers, thanks to their responsive yet supportive feel, which will adapt to your movements throughout the night.
Drift off to dreamland on Saatva’s Organic Quilted Pillow. The quilted organic cotton cover gives this pillow just the right amount of softness while the shredded latex foam keeps the pillow supportive and comfortable.
Saatva makes their pillows using GOTS and OEKO-TEX-certified organic cotton for a chemical-free and hypoallergenic night’s rest.
Materials
Organic cotton cover filled with shredded latex foam
Location/Shipping
United States
- Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS): The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) is the gold standard when it comes to certifying organic textiles. If you see a pillow with a GOTS certification, you can rest assured that the organic cotton or wool used in the pillow cover and filling has met stringent environmental and social criteria throughout the entire production process. From the harvesting of raw materials to the final packaging, GOTS ensures that your pillow is truly organic and ethically produced.
- Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS): For pillows that incorporate natural latex in their filling, the Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS) is a must-have certification. GOLS guarantees that the latex used is 100% organic and has been produced in an environmentally and socially responsible manner. This means that you can enjoy the supportive and responsive properties of latex without worrying about any harmful chemicals or unethical production practices.
- MADE SAFE Certification: This rigorous screening process verifies that the pillow and its materials have been thoroughly vetted for known toxins, carcinogens, behavioral toxins, and other harmful substances. When you see the MADE SAFE seal, you can have peace of mind knowing that your pillow is free from dangerous chemicals that could negatively impact your health.
- OEKO-TEX Standard 100: Although not specific to organic materials, the OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certification is still a valuable indicator of a pillow’s safety. This label ensures that the textiles used in the pillow cover, such as cotton or wool, are free from harmful levels of chemicals. While it doesn’t guarantee organic status, it does provide an extra layer of reassurance that your pillow is safe to sleep on.
- Forest Stewardship Council (FSC): For pillows that use natural rubber latex in their filling, keep an eye out for the FSC certification. This seal of approval guarentees that the latex has been sourced from responsibly managed forests, promoting sustainable practices and protecting the environment.
In addition to these specific certifications, look for pillows that are labeled as “certified organic” by reputable organizations like the USDA or other certifying bodies in your country or region. Transparent and trustworthy brands will proudly display their certifications on product descriptions and websites, making it easy for you to make an informed decision.
Are organic pillows more expensive?
Organic pillows are typically more expensive than conventional pillows due to the higher costs of organic materials and certification processes. However, they offer several long-term benefits that justify the investment:
- Hypoallergenic and less likely to trigger allergies or skin irritation
- Excellent breathability and temperature regulation for a cool, comfortable sleep
- Durability, lasting longer than synthetic alternatives with proper care
While the upfront cost may be higher and style options more limited, organic pillows provide a healthier, more sustainable, and ultimately cost-effective choice for a good night’s sleep.
Are organic pillows better for allergies?
Organic pillows can potentially be better for allergies since they are made without chemical additives that some people are sensitive to. However, materials like down and wool may still trigger allergies. Hypoallergenic options like latex or kopak fiber may be better for severe allergies.
How long do organic pillows last?
With proper care, a high-quality organic pillow can last 3-5 years on average. Natural materials like latex and buckwheat tend to be more durable than down or cotton fills. Fluffing and rotating the pillow regularly can also extend its lifespan.
Do organic pillows sleep cooler?
Many organic pillow materials like cotton, wool, and kopak fiber are naturally breathable and can help wick away moisture, allowing for cooler sleep compared to synthetic foam pillows. However, this can vary based on the specific fill type and construction.
How to care for your organic pillow?
Organic Cotton Pillows
- Use a pillow protector or pillowcase to keep the pillow clean and prevent staining.
- Wash the pillow cover regularly, but avoid washing the pillow itself too frequently as it can break down the cotton fibers.
- Spot clean the pillow as needed using a mild detergent and water solution.
- Fluff and rotate the pillow daily to maintain its shape and loft.
Organic Wool Pillows
- Wool pillows are naturally resistant to dust mites and odors, so they don’t need frequent washing.
- Spot clean with a mild detergent solution or baking soda and water when needed.
- Air out wool pillows regularly by placing them in direct sunlight, which will help refresh and deodorize them.
- Fluff and rotate the pillow to redistribute the wool fill and maintain its shape.
Natural Latex Pillows
- Use a pillow protector and pillowcase to keep the latex pillow clean.
- Spot clean the pillow cover when needed, but avoid getting the latex fill wet as it can cause deterioration.
- Latex pillows don’t need fluffing, but you can knead them occasionally to reshape if needed.
- Avoid direct sunlight exposure, which can cause yellowing of the latex over time
This has been your complete guide to the best organic pillows for 2024!
A good night’s sleep is the foundation for a happy, healthy life. Investing in an organic pillow is one of the best ways to improve your quality of sleep.
By choosing a pillow made from natural, organic materials, you’re not only treating yourself to a luxuriously comfortable sleep experience but also taking proactive steps to protect your health.
So, whether you’re a side sleeper, a back sleeper, or a little both there is an organic pillow out there that will help you fall asleep with peace of mind.
