We tried the latex pillows which proved to be the most comfortable, supportive, and good breathable.
There is no doubt that pillows help or hinder getting a good night’s sleep. Latex pillows are all-natural, conforming, and more rigid than down pillows, positioning them to be the supportive kind of pillows. If your pillow doesn’t provide the needed support, you can have poor quality sleep, wake up feeling uncomfortable with neck pain or stiffness in the morning.
Your pillow should support your sleep position, whether you are a back, side or stomach sleeper, to keep head and neck in proper alignment during your sleep. You are probably familiar with down, down-alternative or memory foam pillows. However, more advancements in the pillow type have been observed in recent times and these are evident in the latex pillows which provide extra support.
Latex foam pillows have gained most popularity in recent years, and provide a bouncy feel on the head and neck. Some well-known features of the Latex include the compatibility with and ability to mold to your head and neck thus alleviating neck pains. Also, it can offer great support and retain the shape it is supposed to have during a night’s sleep.
Latex pillows “provide much more neck and head support than a down or down alternative pillow. Latex pillows replace the softness of a filled pillow with the firmness and stability of foam,” which is why people, who require more support during the night, like it so much.
Our Top Picks for the Best Latex Pillows
1
Best Overall Latex Pillow
Purple Harmony Pillow | The Greatest Pillow
PROS
- Cooling cover
- Innovative polymer grid
- Open air channels throughout latex core
CONS
- Pricey
To our knowledge, we can assert that there’s no other latex pillow with the same qualitites as this one from Purple. It comes with a talalay latex that is enclosed by the elastic lattice material by the firm, but not too firm, not too soft either. The cover is also moisture-wicking and the latex core has vents in it so it would be a great choice for hot sleepers as well.
It comes in three size variants to adapt to the sleeping position and the shape of the body. The cover cleaned up easily during our wash test, and the latex core didn’t compress during our weighted pressure tests. Further, the consumer testers pointed out that it was very comfortable due to its supportive feel and breathability.
One of the testers said, “During the night, I did not experience any excessive sweating and the feel of the pillow was soft and beneficial.” Some of the chronic neck pain sufferers noted that the product helped support their neck, preventing morning stiffness.
Product Details: Sizes: Standard and King | Sleeping position: Side and back | Care instructions: Machine washable (cover only); lay flat to dry.
2
Best Talalay Latex Pillow
Malouf Natural Talalay Latex Zoned Pillow
PROS
- Available in a variety of sizes, lofts, and densities.
- Naturally mildew proof, dust mite resistant and hypoallergenic.
- Super soft, removable and washable cover.
- Supportive but not overly firm (high loft, plush density).
CONS
- Significant off-gassing upon unpackaging.
- Ideal only for side and back sleepers.
- Pricey; may be out of some budgets.
Talalay latex is organic latex which is further characterized by breathability, softness, and spring-like features. So, based on our testing, our top pick for a Talalay latex pillow is the Malouf Z 100% Natural Talalay Latex Zoned Pillow. It’s comfortable, light and it’s tailored to be hypoallergenic from natural materials. It is also anti-mould, anti-mildew and anti-dust mite.
The main feature that sets this pillow apart from the rest of the Talalay latex pillows on this list is its zoned technology. This pillow has different areas of concentration or support, with the middle of the pillow having more support and the sides having less support.
We bought it for the house and took it on a trial spin for half a year. On the whole, the first impression that we had about this pillow was quite favourable. The shape retention and support that it offered for the first three months of testing impressed us so much that we swapped out our traditional memory foam pillow for it. This honeycomb design offered efficient insulation and had a cool and comfortable feel to it even in the middle of the night.
As for sleep quality, it was also upgraded during this period, and it became possible to easily choose the right position for comfortable sleep. This aspect proved convenient when we tried the pillow during the CPAP user test since the device makes it more complicated to adjust the position without disrupting the mask.
Our interest faded beyond the preparatory three months leading to the conduct of the tests. We would still stress that while we managed to find the pillow comfortable, it gradually began deforming and losing its springiness after half a year. We continued using the pillow daily when sleeping but wanted to include several other types of pillows to ensure that we had enough support at night.
Because of this, we recommend this pillow for those who do not mind frequently washing it or rotating it with other pillows to ensure optimal support.
In the lab we discovered that the pillow contained springs or some material that made it easily spring back into its normal shape when force was applied in the form of folding or even when applying force as seen when throwing the medicine ball at the pillow. Remember, this made the pillow we tested uncomfortably hard, though, indicating that side sleepers would not be as comfortable on this pillow.
This pillow is available in queen or king size, and it comes in four loft options: It is mainly available in four types, namely, high loft firm, low loft firm, low loft plush, and high loft plush. This makes it possible to design based on the sleeping position and the user preferences.
Product Details: Sizes: Queen, king | Fill Material: Talalay latex | Cover Material: Cotton | Firmness: High or low loft (firm or plus) | Care instructions: Cover is dry clean only, spot clean insert.
3
Best Organic Latex Pillow
Naturepedic Organic Adjustable Latex Pillow
PROS
- Adjustable fill and two distinct side choices
- Natural organic latex fill and organic cotton cover
- Testers appreciated its comfort, its soft cushioning and the support that it offered to the body.
CONS
- Messy when trying to change the fill
From the latex pillows that we tested, this latex pillow was outstanding, scoring highly in our tests due to the versatility and comfort it offered. This is because it has an organic cotton cover that is GOTS certified and organic latex fill that is GOLS certified.
The padded side of the mattress has quilted PLA batting, which is an organic fiber derived from sugarcane, whereas the other side has shredded latex that can be reinflated to desired height. It excelled in our tests and Consumer Studies to put it across that one does not have to make a compromise to get an eco-friendly product.
Comfort and support were also rated highly for this pick, and the testers noted the value of the two-sides design. For instance, one went to the extent of saying: “This is quite simply the best pillow that anyone could possibly use to sleep on.” However, it was also noted that the removal of some of the shredded latex fill was slightly complicated and made the pillow look messy.
Product Details: Sizes: Standard, Queen and King | Sleeping position: All | Fill Material: Rubber | Care instructions: Machine washable (cover only).
4
Best for Side Sleepers Latex Pillow
Saatva Latex Pillow with Shredded Latex Core
PROS
- It has a plush and soft feel
- held its shape well
- has a smooth organic cotton cover.
CONS
- Fill is not adjustable.
Latex pillows can only be good or bad depending on their height; side sleepers require a taller pillow to support their necks and align the spine appropriately efficiently. This was one of the most liked options from Saatva; at approximately 6” to 7” thick, it was considered ideal for side sleeping among the tested samples for the Tall height.
In addition to the shredded latex core, it has an organic cotton sateen cover with a thin layer of down-alternative fill, which one tester described as very plush and soft.
As for the shape and size, it stayed symmetrical and standard pillow-size after we fluffed it up for testing. However, it is important to remember that the cotton cover is organic but the latex fill is not, and that you cannot alter the firmness of the shredded latex to your preference.
Product Details: Sizes: Queen and King | Sleeping position: Back and side | Fill Material: Latex | Care instructions: Cover only machine washable.
5
Best Adjustable Latex Pillow
Avocado Organic Bed Pillow, Organic Latex
PROS
- Organic cotton cover,
- Fill is mix of shredded latex and kapok,
- High marks for keeping its proper shape.
CONS
- Very heavy.
With less loft but solid support, this Avocado Organic Bed Pillow is just right for back sleepers. The filling consists of GOLS organic-certified shredded latex and GOTS organic-certified kapok (a natural fluffy fiber), and it features an organic cotton cover.
In our tests, it performed satisfactorily, holding its form even after we set weights on it for eight hours. While it is somewhat heavier than other latex pillows we’ve tested, our testers enjoyed how supportive and comfortable it was.
One had this to say, “This is by far the best pillow I have ever slept on! We highly regard the brand’s design advancements; when we initially tested this pillow, it did not have a machine-washable cover, but now it includes one.
Product Details: Sizes: Standard, Queen and King | Sleeping position: All | Fill Material: Organic Latex & Kapok | Care instructions: Machine washable (cover only); hang dry.
6
Best Cooling Latex Pillow
Sijo Clima Latex Pillow, 100% Talalay Latex
PROS
- Light, breathable fill
- Temperature-regulating
- Maintains firmness and shape over time.
CONS
- Texture can require an adjustment period
Although latex is known for its breathability, not all latex pillows are made alike–and not everyone is appropriate for sleepers who tend to get hot. If your main aim is to remain cool, you should pick a pillow that effectively uses the proper technology. We advise choosing Sijo’s Clima Latex Pillow, since it proceeds beyond simply relying on latex for cooling.
Apart from its breathable latex design, this pillow additionally contains moisture-wicking lyocell fibers and plant-derived paraffin, which together serve to control heat. As a result, the latex pillow acts as a heat dissipator, which we confirmed in our tests; we did not need to turn over to the “cooler” side of the pillow at any point.
In addition to providing cooling benefits, this pillow has also shown durability during six months of home use. It’s so resilient that while the latex didn’t sag over time, it actually had the opposite problem: It took a while to become accustomed to its lively quality. Ultimately, we observed that this pillow kept its loft, form, and breathable, light, and no-fluffing-required fill, which consistently provided top-tier support.
Product Details: Sizes: King | Sleeping position: All | Fill Material: Latex | Care instructions: Machine washable cover.
7
Best for Stomach Sleepers
Organic Textiles Natural Latex Pillow
PROS
- 4 firmness options
- Maintains temperature well
- Natural latex and organic cotton cover.
CONS
- Slight lasting latex scent.
When we tested the Organic Textiles Natural Latex Pillow, we appreciated its bouncy, reactive nature and welcoming feel, which we loved for sleepers who prefer to sleep on their stomachs. The Talalay latex fill is 100% pure, with no synthetic latex or memory foams included. The certified organic cotton is labelled with GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard), giving you confidence in its authentic organic nature.
During our testing, we did find that the pillow had a slight latex scent which remained after removal from the packaging, which we would rank at a two out of five (being very mild). The cooling effectiveness of the fabric was considerable; it kept a regular temperature after being rested upon. When we subjected it to the weight of a medicine ball, it resiliently came back to life quickly.
We appreciate that four different firmness choices are available to choose from; this lets you select how bouncy and supportive you’d like to be, based on your preferred sleep position. As we liked the pillow in our testing for stomach sleepers, you can choose any level of firmness should you be a back, side, or combination sleeper. Thanks to the assortment of options, this latex pillow should have the capacity to meet everyone’s needs.
Coming from personal experience with this pillow for six months, we found it does, in fact, supply enough sensitivity to be comfy in any sleep position. Furthermore, it has demonstrated great durability with continued use, which we consider a strong indication of the quality of the latex core.
Product Details: Sizes: Standard, queen and king | Sleeping position: All | Fill Material: 100% Natural Latex | Care instructions: Machine washable cover.
What to Know for when buying for a latex pillow
Type of Latex: When we refer to latex pillows there are basically two types and they are the natural and the synthetic types. The material known as natural latex is a sustainable product, sourced from the rubber tree sap. The certification for Global Organic Latex will assure that your foam pillow is no less than 95% natural latex.
A range of latex pillows is constructed using synthetic latex, which consists of materials derived from petroleum. Generally speaking, it’s cheaper, but is not sustainable and might not be hypoallergenic. The Organic Textiles Natural Latex Pillow with Organic Cotton Outer Covering became our top choice for organic latex pillows following testing. Tested and proven, it’s Global Organic Latex Certified and can bounce right back after you remove the 6-pound medicine ball.
Sleeping Position: Side sleepers can find latex pillows very beneficial, since they fill the void that exists between your head and shoulder when you lay your head down, resulting in proper alignment for the neck and spine. Wang suggests that both back and side sleepers benefit from latex pillows because they are sturdy enough to maintain correct spine position while sleeping.
If you move around in your bed while sleeping, there’s a pillow designed for your needs. According to one professional, stomach sleepers must avoid latex pillows. “The foam will elevate and move the head away from alignment with the neck and spine.”
Firmness and Loft: How firm or lofty (or height) your pillow is typically depends on your sleeping position, according to our tests. Those who sleep on their backs should choose pillows that are 5 inches or under, as these “provide proper support to the head, neck, and spine.” The Beckham Hotel Collection Bed Pillow is the number one choice for back sleepers.
Those who sleep on their sides should find pillows made of thick latex that are ideally 5’’ to 8 inches in height. “The pillow can fill the space above your head due to your shoulder thanks to this. For anyone who sleeps on their side, we consider the Buffy Breeze Pillow to be the best option. For those who move around as they slumber, 3’’ to 5 inches is the correct loft level.
Adjustability: In many cases, latex pillows have either a solid piece or bits of shredded latex for their filling. Removing or adding the filling provides the user with the ability to change the loft of their pillow, thanks to shredded latex. To select the best adjustable latex pillow, we chose the Plush Beds Shredded Latex Pillow, which became easy to adjust as we removed the filling.
FAQs about latex pillows
Who are the latex pillows best for?
- Side and back sleepers: Back sleepers are best served with a medium-height pillow, but side sleepers need to have the highest loft pillows. These sleep positions tend to work well with latex pillows, which contour and support your neck to eliminate morning soreness.
- Hot sleepers: Although memory foam is famous for its ability to capture heat, latex provides better breathability and won’t feel as warm at night.
Conversely, here’s who shouldn’t buy a latex pillow.
- Stomach sleepers: Latex pillows usually pose problems for people who sleep on their stomachs. If you want to test a latex pillow and sometimes relax on your stomach, keep an eye out for shredded adjustable designs to lower the height.
- Latex allergies: If you have an allergy to latex and have never used latex pillows, we think it’s best to stay away from any latex pillow no matter what the cover is, because it isn’t a good idea to risk an allergic reaction. While some latex allergy sufferers may not show an allergic response to a latex pillow, we still recommend a chat with your allergist before trying one out.
Are the latex pillows better than memory foam?
Not necessarily. It all comes back to what you prefer. Initially, memory foam pillows feel firm, subsequently they adjust to fit your head and neck, making it feel as though you’re sinking into the pillow itself. While memory foam gives outstanding cushioning, it will settle to its original shape much slower than latex.
You will generally find that latex pillows stay cooler than memory foam pillows, and they quickly revert to their original shape following use. Similar to memory foam, latex shapes to your head configuration, delivering excellent neck support.
How thick should a latex pillow be?
In order to purchase a latex pillow, you need to think about your sleeping position. Wang indicates that a back sleeper requires a thinner pillow, no larger than 5 inches thick, side sleepers benefit from pillows that are between 5” and 8 inches thick, and those who change positions at night should find a pillow that is 3” to 5 inches thick.
Is latex a natural material?
It depends! Latex is, essentially, a rubber product that shows some variety in manufacturing across the industry. Latex derived from natural sources is gathered from fully grown rubber trees and processed into the soft latex that makes up pillows. There is additionally synthetic latex that comes from chemicals based on petroleum.
All of our recommended picks are made from natural latex: either an organic alternative, or one made with the Dunlop or Talalay processes. We advise that if you prefer organic bedding, you should look for organic latex certified by the Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS) to prevent falling for synthetic latex impostors.
