The quality of your pillows determines how well you sleep, and most people tend to use more than one pillow to get comfortable in their beds. That said, do you know how many toxins and stain-resistant chemicals are in an average pillow? You can easily find comfortable pillows to use, but if you want something that is better for your health and the environment, consider one of the eco-friendly options available on the market. In this guide, we’ll look at some of the top eco-friendly pillow options and help you decide which ones are right for your needs.
1. Natural Rubber Pillows
Natural rubber pillows are similar to memory foam pillows because they provide a good amount of neck and back support. These pillows are durable options that resist dust mites, so you will not have to worry about excess dust if you have allergies or asthma. In addition, the material is naturally anti-fungal and mildew resistant.
Also known as a latex pillow, this type holds its natural shape, which makes it a soft and comfortable option, even when it’s no longer new. The material will provide years of comfort, and to top it off, the material is breathable, which makes sleeping with these pillows a more comfortable option in humid conditions.
2. Kapok Pillows
Kapok pillows are made from the threads of the flowers that bloom on kapok trees. The material is soft but harder than a wool or down option, which gives some durability to the pillow. The material is hypoallergenic, and it has a natural design that repels moisture, so mold and mildew can’t form in your pillows.
Kapok gives you a firmer pillow that molds to your head as you sleep, and it’s breathable to provide added comfort on hot days. Using this type of pillow will support your neck and spine alignment as well. Since the material is biodegradable, there will be less waste in the environment when you have finished using the pillow.
3. Buckwheat Pillows
Buckwheat pillows are another eco-friendly alternative to consider that has a ton of benefits compared to traditional pillows. These pillows are filled with buckwheat hulls, and most have a zipper so that you can remove or add more hulls to make yourself comfortable. The pillow molds to your head, which is great for supporting your neck and back.
These pillows are 100% organic, so no toxins are present in them. You can also cool the hulls off in the freezer to better control the temperature of your pillow at night. You can also microwave the hulls to keep your head warm on a night when there is a chill in the air. The buckwheat hulls have a natural smell that is fresh but subtle. The hulls are also very durable, so the pillow will last for several years before you’ll need a new one.
4. Organic Cotton Pillows
Organic cotton pillows are breathable, which helps them sleep cooler than most pillows. Cotton is soft on your face, so most pillow covers are also made out of this material. If you have sensitive skin, these hypoallergenic materials are a great option for reducing irritation and allergic reactions while you sleep.
Organic cotton is produced in a responsible way that doesn’t damage the environment in any way. It’s a biodegradable option that’s also durable, so you can use the pillow for a long time. In fact, you can easily wash these pillows, which will cause them to fluff up and create a more comfortable sleeping experience.
5. Down Pillows
If you enjoy a fluffy pillow, down will provide you with the soft comfort that you are looking for. It adapts to the weight of your head, and though it may not be as firm as other options, it offers enough neck and back support to let you sleep in any position.
The material is warm in the winter to keep you toasty at night, and in the summer, it’s breathable material is cool and comfortable. The durable pillows can be vacuumed and washed to keep them clean.
When looking for a down pillow, try to find pillows that take the well-being of the birds into consideration. That said, there are pillows that are certified with a Responsible Down Standard (RDS) that ensures that the birds did not experience any cruelty during the pillow-making process. If you are concerned about having bird feathers in your pillow, there are down alternatives that could provide a vegan option for you.
6. Organic Wool Pillows
Wool is naturally resistant to dust and dust mites, so this nonallergenic pillow will provide you with the comfort you need all year. It’s durable and easy to adjust, especially since the wool fibers can be removed and added back to the pillow to accommodate your changing needs for comfort.
This durable option is less likely to flatten than traditional pillows. Whether you sleep on your side, back, or stomach, this type of pillow offers comfort above most other types. Organic wool also makes great cooling pillows, so if you sleep hot, consider this as an eco-friendly option.
Finding the Right Eco-Friendly Pillow
Boosting the comfort that your pillow provides you is a great way to improve your sleep. Some pillows that you purchase are not made organically, so the inside of the pillow may have been treated with something that will not be great for your body. Toxins and chemicals are not present in eco-friendly pillows. With this guide, you can find a pillow that fits your sleeping habits and provides you with comfort throughout the night.
