Early to bed, early to wake, makes a girl smart, pretty, and great- Blossom, The PowerPuff Girls.
While Blossom may have been encouraging her sisters to get into bed early, it was unspoken that adequate sleep is achieved in the right sleeping conditions.
The facilities on which we sleep play a huge role in how well-rested we are by morning. Since rest is such a crucial part of our existence, it is only fair that we invest in quality above all else.
Organic pillows are gaining traction as far as quality sleep equipment is concerned. They are made from 100% natural/ organic material. ‘Organic’ implies that the material used to make the pillows is naturally occurring and that its production did not involve any chemical fertilizers, pesticides, or any other chemical element.
In reality, it will be difficult for any product to achieve 100% organic status. Latex, for instance, requires a small amount of chemical for curing. Instead, manufacturers aim to get as close to complete organic production as possible.
Different sleepers have varying needs. A side sleeper will be better suited with a thick, firm pillow, while a stomach sleeper would probably do better with a thinner pad. Either way, investing in an organic pillow will make their sleeping experience better as the material is hypoallergenic and environmentally friendly.
Are organic pillows available?
Yes, there are numerous brands in the market today. The best organic pillow choice will depend on the material composition, the needs, the budget, and so forth.
We have put together a list of our favorite organic pillows and why they are so great.
Our Top 7 Picks for Organic Pillows
1. Editor’s Pick: Coop Home Goods Premium Adjustable Loft Pillow
This high-quality pillow takes the cake because it ranks highly in terms of organic material content. It is GreenGuard Gold certified, implying that it has almost zero Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) emissions.
It is Certi-PUR-US certified, therefore safe from toxins and harmful chemicals.
The pillow is made from shredded memory foam that is adjustable and contours with your head for superior comfort. You can remove or add the foam to your liking based on your size, the desired shape, and sleeping position. Any sleeper, back, side, or stomach, will be snug on this pillow.
The cover is so soft and plush to your skin as it is made from a blend of bamboo-derived rayon and polyester. It is hypoallergenic and will be dust mite resistant. The cover is removable and machine-washable for easy cleaning.
As a guarantee, the Coop Home Goods pillow comes with a 5-year warranty.
Key features:
- GreenGuard Gold certified
- Certi-PUR-US certified
- Made from adjustable shredded memory foam
- Cover made from a hypoallergenic blend of bamboo-derived rayon and polyester
- Removable and machine-washable cover
- 5-year warranty
2. Runner’s Up- AllerEase Organic Cotton Allergy Protection Pillow
Allergies can be uncomfortable and sometimes irritating challenges to suffer. Continuous itching or sneezing, for example, is bound to be frustrating after a while.
Any person susceptible to allergies will testify for free that it is better to take all measures possible to keep the triggers at bay. Getting this organic pillow is a fantastic strategy.
AllerEase designed a pillow that forms a barricade against dust mites and any common household allergens. Has 100% organic cotton that contains no harsh chemicals, bleach, or dyes. The hypoallergenic, polyester fiberfill adds to the pillow’s plush texture and support.
The pillow is machine-washable using hot water to kill germs and bacteria and sterilize it making the pillow continuously safe for use.
Undoubtedly, AllerEase is the go-to option for a luxurious, dander-free rest.
Key features:
- Protects from dust-mites and other household allergens
- Made from 100% organic cotton
- Hypoallergenic polyester fiberfill
- Hot water machine-washable for sterilization
3. Also Great- AmazonBasics Down Alternative Bed Pillows
This fantastic pillow is designed to be more luxurious than firm and is ideal for stomach and back sleepers.
It is made from a down fill alternative that is so delightfully plush; it will feel as though your head lies upon a wispy cloud.
The covering is 100% micro-fiber that adds to the softness and overall comfort. The pillow’s edge is done in a piping finish that gives it an elegant and well-done appearance.
The AmazonBasics Store is so thoughtful with this pillow that their packaging comes not in one pillow but two. If you were looking to change up the bedroom for you and your partner, this here would be a fantastic deal.
The pillows are standard-size that will be adequate for your sleeping needs. They have a one-year warranty.
Key features:
- Ideal for stomach and back sleepers
- Made from down fill alternative
- 100% micro-fiber makes the Covering
- Well-done appearance due to the pillow edge piping finish
- Come as a two-pack
- One year warranty
4. Best Firm Organic Pillow- Tempur-Pedic Neck Pillow
Every sleeper prefers a unique style of comfort. Some prefer a soft pillow to sink into, while others prefer a firm pillow that steadily supports their head throughout the night.
If you are the latter sleeper that wants to lie on something firm, try the Tempur-Pedic Neck Pillow. This pillow is ergonomically designed to keep a back or side sleeper’s spine aligned for restful and healthy shut-eye.
Has a solid memory foam material, contoured to fit the curve around your head, neck, and shoulders. While the pillow is firm, it is not so high that you will wake up with a stiff neck. Instead, it is just adequately profiled to offer support and comfort in harmony. The hypoallergenic polyester cover is supple, removable, and machine-washable for easy maintenance.
With good maintenance, this pillow should offer fantastic sleep for great, many nights. There is no doubt that the Tempur-Pedic Neck Pillow is a fantastic deal.
Key features:
- Ergonomically designed
- Made from solid memory foam
- Hypoallergenic, removable, and machine-washable polyester cover
- Durable
5. Best Organic Buckwheat Pillow- Beans72 Pillow
Buckwheat has been used extensively for years by Japan to make pillow fill. Beans72 go miles to design their pillow from organically grown buckwheat that is chemical and toxin-free. This fill is then covered with 100% unbleached cotton cover soft to the touch and even snugger to lie on.
Buckwheat hulls are incredibly breathable and will allow for air circulation in the pillow, making it a winner with hot sleepers. It is adjustable, meaning you can purchase more buckwheat hull to add to the pad or remove some of it until you have found your sweet spot.
The Beans 72 pillow has USDA Organic Buckwheat Hulls certification, indicating that it is chemical-free.
All these superb qualities of the Beans72 pillow come at a surprisingly affordable price that is relatively lower than other such pillows.
Key features:
- Made from organic buckwheat and unbleached cotton cover
- Breathable
- Adjustable loft
- USDA Organic Buckwheat Hulls certification
- Reasonably priced
6. Best for Kids- Sweet Dreams Toddler Pillow
Children are susceptible to all manner of things. Their skin is easily irritable and reactive to foreign objects that may not even be noticeable by adults. For this reason, it is imperative that the pillow they sleep on be as hypoallergenic as possible.
My Little North Star designed their Sweet Dreams Toddler Pillow to offer kids a safe, healthy, and well-rested night. Has hypoallergenic poly cluster fiber filling wrapped in a 100% certified, organic cotton encasing for the pillow design. This material is chemical-free and devoid of toxins, dyes, synthetic fragrances, and anything else that would be harsh.
The pillow is mold, mildew, and dust-mite resistant. The cover is removable and machine-washable, which is crucial for a baby’s well-being and overall health.
It is ergonomically designed to keep your little one’s head, neck, and spine well-aligned while at the same time promising sound sleep. This pillow is so unique that chiropractors and pediatricians recommend it.
This pillow’s size is convenient for travel and will easily fit in your luggage. It will be great for your toddler to have a bit of home even while away.
Key features:
- Made from hypoallergenic poly cluster fiber filling
- 100% certified, organic cotton cover that is removable and machine-washable
- Mold, mildew, and dust-mite resistant
- Ergonomically designed
- A convenient size for portability
7. Best for Pain Relief- PLX Pillows for Sleeping
Sometimes some challenges keep us awake at night. Insomnia, migraines, neck and back pain, snoring, among others, can be cause for sleepless nights and hence unproductive days. To ease this discomfort, designed their pillow for sleeping that keeps the neck and spine aligned while you sleep.
The pillow is made from shredded memory foam that contours with your head and body to keep you adequately supported. The foam is covered by a hypoallergenic pillowcase made from 60% polyester and 40% bamboo. The pillow will be adjustable, allowing you to customize the loft and mold the shape to your liking and optimal rest.
The pillow uses a cooling, shredded foam technology to regulate the temperature and keep you cool throughout the night. The breathable cover will absorb the moisture to keep you dry and supremely comfortable. It will be great even for a hot sleeper.
This pillow is the right choice for all sleepers- stomach, back, and side. The packaging is a queen size 2-pack at an unbelievably affordable price to cap all of these fantastic qualities.
Key features:
- Made from shredded memory foam
- Breathable, hypoallergenic cover made from 60% polyester and 40% bamboo
- Adjustable loft
- Cooling shredded foam technology
- Great for all sleepers
- Queen-size 2-pack for great value
Types of Organic Pillows
The type of organic pillow will depend on the main material component. Types of pillows include:
a) Organic cotton pillow
Every step in the production of cotton is organic and free of chemicals. Even the ginning and weaving of the cover will be chemical-free. The fiber will be left intact, breathable, hypoallergenic, and comfortable.
The cotton pillow will stay cool in the hot season and warm up during the winter. It is exceptionally absorbent and will keep you dry even through night sweats that would otherwise be very uncomfortable.
b) Organic wool pillow
Wool is naturally resistant to dust mites, mold, and mildew. It is also fire-resistive and will not pose a hazard even if you sleep on it near a fireplace.
This type of wool is also referred to as eco-wool, implying that every process is meticulously done to ensure high quality. The sheep from which it is sourced are reared under a strict organic treatment. The wool is thoroughly scoured and washed for ultimate cleanliness and to do away with shrinking.
c) Organic kapok pillow
Kapok is a tree that produces pods with cotton-like fiber. The fibers are silkier than cotton and are separated from the seeds to fill mattresses and pillows. Kapok fiber is mixed with latex fiber for fuller pillows.
A kapok pillow will feel like a down pillow as it will be extra soft and luxurious.
d) Organic latex pillow
Not all natural latex will be organic. For the pillow to be certified organic, farming and harvesting sap from the rubber tree must meet organic standards.
These pillows will be made from 97% pure latex and offer amazing support and comfort. They are breathable and will keep you cool throughout the night for great sleep.
Shredded latex will contour to your neck and head for a boost of coziness. Some pillows will come with a zipper and adjustable loft to allow you to add or remove the material to your liking.
e) Organic buckwheat pillow
Buckwheat is a naturally durable grain that has been used in Asia for eons. The seeds are removed, and the hulls are cleaned and dried to make the pillow. Such a pillow tends to be more firm than one made from wool, kapok, or latex.
It is an excellent alternative to other organic or inorganic materials you may be allergic to. This pillow will contour to your head for extra comfort and will not flatten over time like other materials. The hull is breathable to promote air circulation.
What to Consider when Choosing an Organic Pillow
i) Material
An organic pillow will be made from naturally-grown components such as cotton, buckwheat, wool, latex, etc. Organic materials are a step above traditional inorganic elements in their hypoallergenic nature. An organic pillow will be ideal even for a user with sensitive skin or allergies.
Even where the ad claims that it is organic, always check what the pillow is made from and see if it agrees with you.
ii) Organic certification
The certification is what will indicate whether the material used to make the pillow is genuinely organic. Given that some manufacturers may want to take advantage of higher revenues by exaggerating the ‘organicness’ to increase the price, you must conduct your due diligence before purchasing.
iii) Firmness
A pillow’s firmness determines the level of support it offers. If it is too firm, it may leave you with a stiff neck. On the other hand, if it is too soft, it may fail to offer the necessary reinforcement.
iv) Loft
A pillow ought to fill in the space between the head, neck, and mattress. A side-sleeper will need a higher pillow to allow room for the shoulders’ breadth. On the other hand, a stomach sleeper will need a flat pillow to avoid twisting of the neck.
Aim to find the correct loft for you. If you are unsure, find an adjustable pillow that will allow you to either add or remove the inner material to your liking.
Loft and firmness are intertwined. A big but soft pillow will allow the head to sink in further, which will reduce the loft.
v) Moldability
Sometimes we want to mold the pillow we lie on to fit the most comfortable shape or just to hug it while we sleep. If this is you, consider the material making the pillow. A cotton pillow will be moldable, while one made from latex may not be so.
vi) Breathability
A good sleep accessory will regulate the temperature so that you are neither too hot nor too cold. To achieve this, the material should be breathable, allowing for air circulation. Most organic materials are breathable, making these pillows all the more favorable.
vii) Price
The budget will play a massive role in the pillow you ultimately settle for. Organic pillows tend to be more expensive than regular pillows because their production process is quite different and arguably costlier. Nonetheless, it is possible to get a good quality organic pillow without falling into financial ruin. Consider more affordable material such as cotton if more expensive latex or buckwheat is outside your budget.
viii) Durable
Good quality organic material, such as cotton, wool, or latex, is durable. Of course, the durability of the pillow will be determined by more than the material composition. How you use and take care of the pillow will go a long way in ensuring that it lasts you a good long while.
What are the Benefits of using an Organic Pillow?
- They are environmentally-friendly
Perhaps the most significant differentiating factor for organic pillows is that they are environmentally friendly. They are made from materials that are chemical-free and biodegradable and will not pollute the environment.
- They are healthy and hypoallergenic
Organic pillows will be made using non-carcinogenic materials that are chemical-free. They are safe for use even by a person with sensitive skin and sensitive to the odor that sometimes comes with synthetic material. The pillow material will also be resistant to dust mites and mildew, keeping you guarded even after a long period of use.
- They are breathable
A pillow that allows air circulation makes your sleeping experience that much better. An organic pillow is breathable and will facilitate just this. It will regulate the temperature, cooling you in hot seasons, and warming you up in cold seasons.
This breathable quality makes an organic pillow ideal for hot sleepers who suffer night sweats.
- They are durable
Organic material such as wool tends to be quite durable, especially with good care. While an organic pillow may be slightly more expensive than its conventional counterpart, its durability will make the investment well worth it.
- They boost the local economy
Often, organic products are sourced from an area’s local farmers. In this way, they can earn an income and improve their livelihoods, which will enhance the overall economy of their community.
Organic Certifications to Help with Due Diligence
Not every manufacturer claiming that their product is organic is genuine. Some ride on that label simply to rake in more profit. To help customers be more vigilant and help them know what to look out for, certifications are indicated on a genuinely organic pillow.
Certifications for organic products include:
Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS)
Organic latex pillows ought to be certified by GOLS, which confirms that the latex has been sourced and processed into an end product that is at least 95% organic. Organic latex is hardly ever 100% organic because it requires a small amount of chemicals for processing.
Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS)
GOTS verifies that a finished product contains at least 70% organic fiber. It also confirms that the pillow is free from toxic dyes and other substances and regulates the wastewater treatment from production.
GreenGuard
This certification guarantees that the pillow has low Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) emissions, also known as off-gassing. The GreenGurad certification aims to minimize indoor pollution by emphasizing safe VOC levels for each product.
The GreenGuard Gold is more strict and enforces extremely low or zero VOC emissions.
Eco-Institut
The Eco-Institut is an internationally accredited organization based in Germany that texts for emissions and toxins in mattresses and other beddings such as pillows.
USDA Organic
The National Organic Program (NOP) works hand in hand with USDA to ensure organic-labeled material consistency. They provide that for a crop or animal product to be certified organic, its production must be devoid of antibiotics, chemical fertilizers, genetic engineering, and other disallowed substances.
Moreover, animals must be reared under humane conditions and ought to consume organic feed.
The USDA does not directly provide certification for non-food products. Instead, it encourages manufacturers to comply and seek the GOTS tag.
OEKO-TEX Standard 100
OEKO-TEX is an alliance of numerous research and testing institutes in Europe and Japan. The OEKO-TEX standard 100 tag is internationally accredited and will be granted to products that contain chemical levels that are judged to be harmless to human health.
The OEKO-TEX also awards the Made in Green marker that assures ethical work conditions and sustainability.
Final Say
There is no doubt that the best organic pillows are a sure winner as far as health is concerned. They are made from chemical-free and, therefore, hypoallergenic material that will be healthy not just for you but for your whole family, including those with sensitive skin.
The market is flooded with countless options that promise 100% organic harnessing and processing. However, not every brand will be genuine. Conduct your due diligence and look out for certification labels such as GOTS and GreenGuard to assure you that what you are buying is legit.
Besides the certification, keep in mind your other needs such as loft and firmness, the type of pillow you prefer, and the price. Remember that an organic pillow is slightly more expensive than regular pillows. However, its natural quality and durability will more than makeup for the investment.
With your ideal choice of organic pillow, you will be well on your way to healthy, nourishing rest.
FAQ Section
- How can I tell that my pillow is really organic?
A genuinely organic pillow brand will be certified by organizations such as GOTS, GOLS, the Eco-Institut, among others. Look out for the certification label and the material composition to guide you in the pillow’s organic quality before you make your purchase.
- How long do organic pillows last?
The durability of any product largely depends on the care given to it and the material. Organic components, such as wool and latex, are naturally strong and make durable pillows.
To enhance the longevity of your organic pillow, care for it well. Most come with a removable cover that eases the cleaning. Check the instructions for whether to machine or hand wash the cover and clean it periodically.
- Are organic pillows expensive?
In comparison to regular pillows, organic pillows are slightly steeper in price. This, however, isn’t to mean that they are beyond reach. With good research, it is possible to find the right quality pillow within your intended budget.
Check that the quality matches the price before making the purchase. You do not want to fall into the vicious cycle of ‘cheap is expensive.’