Organic pillows that are comfortable to use and safe for your health and the environment.

You spend quite a lot of close time with your pillow, so you need to ensure that the pillow you use is safe for your health. One way to ensure this is to use organic pillows. Organic pillows are eco-friendly and have health benefits, and also these pillows are typically very good at breathing and are extremely long lasting.
Most firms involved in the production of organic products have a strong connection with their suppliers which may involve supporting the local communities or being environmentally conscious. Organic wool and down are produced with enhanced animal welfare relative to conventional methods of production. Organic pillows are a better choice for you and the environment regardless of the fact that it is manufactured from buckwheat, latex, wool, cotton or any other natural material.
Organic bedding can be quite costly, particularly if you don’t want to sacrifice comfort or durability. A variety of organic choices are available on the market. We’ll clarify about the differences between various types of organic pillows to make you understand when it is actually an organic pillow. We will also introduce the list of the best organic pillows currently available on the market.
Here are our preferred choices of certified organic pillows that are suitable for different sleeping positions. As a matter of fact, in the previous years, you are very lucky if you have gotten excellent discounts on your bedding including your pillows during the Holidays.
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The Best Organic Pillows
1
Best Overall Organic Pillow
Naturepedic Organic Latex Pillow
PROS
- Adjustable height
- Suitable for any sleeping positions
- One quilted side and one smooth knit side
CONS
- Slightly larger than standard size
A best performer in our pillow tests, this model comes with organic cotton cover and organic latex filling for added comfort. One part of the pillows is made of a special material called quilted PLA batting which stems from the sugarcane fiber, another part is latex shreds that can be adjusted to personal firmness and height preference.
In our tests, we noticed that the pillow was relatively small since it lacked proper dimensions to fit into a standard size pillowcase, but our sleep testers found it to be very comfy.
Another combiner sleeper said, “This pillow provides support regardless of the side I sleep on.” Testers also like the reversible sides and the fact that it can be adjusted to corresponding sizes, this is suitable for a person who has not a clue about the type of the pillow they require.
Fill material | Shredded latex and PLA batting |
Firmness | Adjustable |
2
Best Value Organic Pillow
Avocado Organic Bed Pillow
PROS
- Good fluffing qualities,
- GOTS and GOLS certified
- Has an adjustable fill bag for the height of the pillow
CONS
- Too heavy
This adjustable Organic Bed Pillow is certified by the Global Organic Textile Standard that guarantees that all aspects of the product are organic, from the cotton or kapok used in the product to the process of production. The fill is a blend of bouncy, GOLS certified shredded latex and the soft, organic kapok, which is silky to the touch, and everything is wrapped in a cotton outer cover.
Despite the heavy weight compared to some of our other choices, the pillow provided good support and retained shape during our pressure tests. It is equally suitable for all classes of sleepers because of the highly flexible design and adjustable fill.
It’s such a fantastic pillow that I can now state confidently that it is the best pillow I have ever slept on, one consumer tester remarked. “This pillow maintained its shape and was cooler.’ “I slept with my head in all directions, and this pillow was satisfactory in every position; side, back and front.”
Fill material | Shredded latex and kapok |
Firmness | Adjustable |
3
Best Organic Pillow For Side Sleepers
Saatva Latex Pillow-Organic Cotton Cover
PROS
- It has supportive latex fill
- Denser or softer support options
- Available in a higher version for side sleepers
CONS
- Not completely organic certified
- Testers gave lower comfort ratings than what other choices
Saatva’s latex pillow is comfortable and comes with an organic cotton cover with two different fill layers; a down-alternative insulating layer on top and a shredded latex core inside for extra support. It has a gusset for the added support and is also available in two different heights; including a tall 6–7-inch option that side sleepers can use.
It can also be made somewhat thinner by taking out the latex core if a softer and a little lower pillow is preferred. This pillow would comfortably fit into a standard-size pillow cover and it retained its form even when weights were placed on it. The cover is reusable and can be washed in a washing machine, However the cover frayed a little after many washes were made on it.
Testers felt that the pillow was comfortable but it did not receive as much praise for its comfort level like some of our other pillows. One tester expressed, “I appreciate the texture. It’s very plush and soft.”
Fill material | Shredded latex and microfiber |
Firmness | Medium |
4
Best Organic Down Pillow
Boll & Branch Down Alternative Pillow
PROS
- Evenly dispersed fill
- Multiple firmness levels
- Cruelty free down that is IDS certified
CONS
- Initial down smell upon opening
Although down can not be certified organic, this down pillow does come with an organic cotton cover and has a three-chamber structure, meant to keep the down fill separate and balanced. We mention that this pillow uses the down that has been verified by the International Down Standard, which means that the down has been sourced responsibly.
This Boll & Branch Down Alternative Pillow comes in three firmness levels; soft, medium and firm for every type of sleeper. This model is still under review, we appreciate that it has not changed much after being washed and it is quite suitable to be placed in a standard-size pillowcase. For the olfactory sensitive individuals, our analysts experienced a down scent at first which gradually faded after some time.
Fill material | Down |
Firmness | Soft, medium and firm options |
5
Best Organic Cotton Toddler Pillows
Organic Cotton Toddler Pillows for Sleeping
PROS
- Comes with organic cotton pillowcase
- The case comes in almost thirty different prints
- Both the case and the pillows are machine-washable
CONS
- Not recommended for those older than five years
This pillow comes with its own pillowcase, which is great because you do not have to go out to buy one separately, and it has a nice design. At KeaBabies, there is a variety of pillowcases that can be used delivering a certain degree of choice to the parents. My daughter liked the pillow and most of all the outer cover that has different animals with each alphabet. It is also soft and fluffy, although not so much that your child’s head will sink into it like in marshmallow.
The Dreamy is also Specialist-recommended—DeBear’s own children have utilized and adored this pillow for years (yes, years—he says they have “withstood time”), and Amin appreciates “the ability of the pillow to Continue to conform” given the fill of flexible fiber balls.
I personally really liked that both the pillow and the pillowcase are washable with a washing machine. I don’t need to take it to the laundry for washing. Both could be easily cleaned up by simply washing them together with the rest of my clothes, after which cleaning was very easy. It also comes with a one-year warranty as well as 30 day money back guarantee although we probably will not need either.
Fill material | High-quality fiber Fillings |
Firmness | Plushy, soft to medium firmness |
What to consider when shopping for the best organic pillows
Buying a perfect pillow isn’t an easy task due to the various types of pillows that are available today. Locating a high-quality organic pillow might seem more difficult than anticipated. Below are some valuable suggestions to remember during your shopping experience.
✔️ Cover: most of the organic covers are likely to be made of cotton but can also be made of wool or any other fabric. A cover made of polyester or viscose such as those that have labels stating they are made from “bamboo,” “rayon from bamboo” or “eucalyptus Lyocell” cannot be organic. When choosing an organic pillow, the GOTS certification should be sought to guarantee that the cover is 100% organic, meeting set standards.
✔️ Fill: Down, down-alternative and memory foam filling materials, which are most often used in pillows, cannot be organic according to the USDA criteria; therefore, if you prefer such a type of pillows, choose a pillow case organically.
For those who like organic fill, the most used shredded or solid natural latex has the GOLS certification, and it is primarily combined with the silky kapok fiber to get a luxurious sensation. Extra fills include wool and buckwheat hulls, both of which are natural, breathable materials but that have not fared well in our test in the past.
✔️ Sleep position: The best pillow for buying depends on what kind of sleeper the person is, what position he/she uses during a night’s sleep. When you spend a long night, a good pillow will most definitely provide you with spine alignment and minimize pressure on the neck according to your sleeping position.
The side sleepers should use a thick and firm pillow while the stomach sleepers should use a thin and soft pillow. Back sleepers should go for moderate firmness; and for those who shift between the two positions, a pillow with a fill that can be rearranged or divided is perfect.
✔️ Temperature regulation: Not all pillows have the capacity of regulating your body temperature. Down and foam pillows tend to readily trap air and body heat, while latex, kapok, buckwheat and wool pillows differ, and are therefore less suitable for people who sleep hot.
✔️ Certifications: Search for products that are GOTS certified for organic textiles and GOLS for organic latex. Further information about certifications for pillows is provided below.
✔️ Care label: whether you can wash your pillows in a washing machine basically depends on the fill. The majority of down and down-alternative pillows are washable in a washing machine, and some of them are differentiated by the kind of washer needed. Memory foam, latex or buckwheat pillows should be cleaned only with a spot-cleaning method. Make sure these pillows have a cover that can be washed.
✔️ Price: Down and latex pillows are the most costly type of pillows albeit are among the best ones in most tests.
What types of organic pillows are available?
✔️ Cotton: Cotton is used in most of the pillowcase fabrics. While choosing an organic pillow that uses cotton ensure that the over and the inner fill are both organic. Not all cotton is organic, but you might find some GOTS, which means that cotton is being grown and processed according to organic rules. Attached and removable cotton covers will generally be washable on a washing machine.
✔️ Down: Down is derived from the soft, fine clusters that lie beneath the stronger protective feathers of birds, including ducks and geese. Down feels very warm, gentle to touch and has a fluffy feel due to the nature of its fibers. It is an excellent insulator, but can also be relatively costly.
Down and feathers are normally combined with each other in pillows for soft touch having a cheaper price as compared to that of fully down. Like other cushions, down pillows can also be washed in a washing machine but some may need to be washed in a front-loading washing machine.
Even when it is impossible to use down that is certified organic; the down pillows can have certified organic covers. Additionally, it is possible to choose ethically sourced products by confirming the Responsible Down Standard certification, which ensures the protection of ducks and geese in the down production.
✔️ Latex: Natural latex is obtained from the rubber tree and is quite firm and bouncy. It is available in two kinds: shredded foam and solid foam. Shredded foam pieces provide a softer feel and can usually be increased or decreased in height; while solid foams for some people seem to be more firm. Latex is also preferable for hot climate enthusiasts because it retains little air or body heat. Organic latex is accredited by the Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS) and is usually very costly.
✔️ Kapok: The natural material is derived from the kapok tree and is a silky cotton like material, which is soft and feels luxurious. Kapok fill is combined with the shredded latex for extra softness and is ideal for someone who is seeking a plant-based down substitute. Search for GOTS certifications to ensure that the kapok used complied with the required standards in its cultivation and processing.
✔️ Wool: Wool includes the coats of sheeps, goats and other animals which are used as pillows, cover or fill. Wool isn’t as supportive as memory foam, down or down-alternative, or latex pillow, but it provides breathability and softness. Our testers in general don’t like wool pillows due to their specific feel and smell, but several hot sleepers reported that wool keeps them cool.
✔️ Buckwheat: These pillows contain dried buckwheat hulls to provide a firm, easily customizable pillow that resembles a bean bag. Buckwheat provide excellent support and are better with breathability issues but they can be noisy and quite heavy. Some testers experienced skin sensitivity problems with these pillows, and that they can be unforgettably firm in comparison with other pillows.
What organic certifications are available?
What can make you feel more confident is some of the organic certifications that must be considered to ensure that the pillow is genuinely organic.
✔️ Global Organic Textiles Standard (GOTS): This third-party certification authenticates the fact that the whole product is completely organic, sustainably produced, biologically and socially tested and sound throughout the entire process of forming the product. At least 70% of the products, including all product components, must be organic fiber.
✔️ Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS): If latex is advertised as organic, then it should have a GOLS certification which points to that the product consists of not less than 95% organic natural rubber latex.
That is why you may see other certifications on the product, but they may not necessarily relate to the authenticity of the organic materials. Some of the natural materials including down and memory foam cannot be described as organic.The subsequent certifications are frequently associated with bedding products:
✔️OEKO-TEX guarantees that the product is free from a certain quantity of hazardous chemicals.
✔️GreenGuard certifications imply that the product has low chemical emissions in order to enhance the quality of air.
✔️Responsible Down Standard is only applicable when 100% of the down and feathers used are traceable and free from abuse of animal rights. Another similar standard is referred to as the International Down Standard.
✔️CertiPUR-US means foam that was produced without some toxic contents such as flame retardants and heavy metals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are organic pillows really worth it?
Of course, organic pillows are beneficial and worth the investment. It has been found to be more environmentally friendly as well as safer for you in that it would minimize your chances of coming into contact with chemicals used in non-organic pillows.
They might also help you sleep better since they are naturally breathable and comfortable to sleep on. They are costly though, but most of them are long lasting, this a worthy investment in the long run.
What kind of pillows are the most beneficial for health?
The most recommended healthy types of pillows are those made of natural and organic materials. Some examples of nice pillows are organic latex, wool, and cotton pillows. Pesticides and other synthetic chemicals are not used which is safer for your health and the earth’s air, water and soil.
These materials also provide good support and a breathability that help to create a comfortable and a healthy sleeping environment. Ensure you are aware of your personal comfort level and whether or not you are allergic to any particular fabric or filling used in the healthiest pillows.
Which is the best pillow filling as in the least toxic?
Organic latex is the least toxic pillow filler that is closest to organic cotton and wool. These materials aren’t produced from synthetic chemicals and pesticides hence safe for human health and the environment.
Organic latex is prized for its high level of purity, its ability to repel dust mites, and the fact that it does not require toxic chemicals during its production and thus causes no toxic emissions into the bedroom.
Should the pillows be organic?
Yes, of course, pillows should be made from organic materials. This is especially relevant if you are most concerned with health, environmental friendly, and natural fabrics in your bedding materials.
How can I know whether my pillow is organic?
To determine whether your pillow is organic, look at the product label or the manufacturer’s website and look for labels like GOTS, GOLS, or USDA Organic labels. Such certifications guarantee that the products used are grown organically and no pesticide was used during the process, they also protect the environment and society.
Which is the best organic pillow for side sleepers?
side sleepers require a thick pillow with more height to suit their gap beneath the head and help maintain the orientation of the neck and spine. Saatva Latex Pillow – Organic Cotton Cover proved perfect for side sleepers and was our top pick when put through various tests.
Should you need to use a pillow cover?
Yes. To ensure that the life of the pillow is as long as possible we suggest you use a pillowcase /or an organic pillow protector.
How do you clean an organic pillow & bedding?
To clean and care for organic pillows, start by taking off the pillow case and then address the stains because once it seeps into the filling it will be hard to clean.
If your pillow has a cover and it seems to be machine washable then it should be washed at a low temperature. That garment should not be tumbled dried even if the label does not say it should be hung to dry. Avoid doing anything that may harm your bedding since this information is indicated on the care label.
Does an organic pillow smell when you first use it?
No – natural and organic pillows, which are non-toxic, should not have any smell at all. However, some organic latex, depending on the type of protective layer used, might have a slight smell right out the wrapper.
It is recommended that you just leave the item – be it cloth or room – to air for a few hours, and the odor should clear.
How long does an organic pillow last?
Organic pillows normally have a lifespan of anything between several years up to ten years depending on the material and how it was used. For instance, the organic latex used on pillows is renowned for its ability to last at least 8 years or more.
Any organic cotton and wool pillows may not be as durable as the synthetic ones, but they can serve you for a number of years if well maintained. To increase the useful life of the pillows, keep to the user instructions like using pillow cases on the pillows and washing the pillows in the prescribed way.