When shopping for a pillow, it’s important to not only think about the comfort level but also the materials used. As always, we recommend steering clear of synthetic materials due to the increased risk of off-gassing harmful chemicals into your indoor air environment.
If you’re considering a memory foam pillow, or even a memory foam mattress, check out this video that explains our thoughts about why we never choose this particular man-made foam.
So if we don’t recommend memory foam pillows, then what pillow stuffing materials do we depend on?
We will explore our top 5 pillow stuffing options (one of which feels very similar to memory foam).
1. Organic Kapok
Kapok is a plant-based alternative to down. This is perfect for those who like the soft feel of feathers but want a cruelty free pillow alternative.
Kapok filling is sourced from the ceiba tree in tropical climates. When you look at the fiber, it has a fluffy appearance, similar to cotton candy or wool.
Kapok pillow stuffing is eco-friendly and you can find kapok pillows that are GOTS-certified organic as a finished product, making them a sustainable pillow option.
Best For: Those who like a soft pillow without feathers. Appropriate for all sleep positions if the pillow is adjustable.
2. Organic Wool
Wool is an incredibly versatile fiber because you can use it all year round regardless of the climate. It is a natural temperature regulator, so it will keep you cool in the summer but warm in the winter.
Wool is used in mattress toppers, duvet inserts, mattress pads, and of course, in pillows.
Wool pillow stuffing is our top choice for those who tend to “sleep hot.” It also has a medium-firm feel, so if kapok is too soft for your liking, wool may be the more appropriate choice.
If you are interested in wool for more than just your pillows, check out this wool bedding bundle.
Best For: Those who sleep hot or like a medium-firm pillow.
3. Natural Talalay Latex
If you love the feel of memory foam but want a more natural alternative, we highly recommend trying a Natural Talalay Latex pillow.
Talalay is very responsive and has that slight “bouncy” feel while still offering stable support for the neck.
Talalay’s open cell structure also makes it breathable and airy, unlike memory foam pillows that can trap your body heat.
We love natural latex in general because it is not derived from petrochemicals. Instead, sap is harvested from rubber trees and baked into cozy layers of comfy perfection. To learn more about Talalay latex, check out this article.
Best For: Side sleepers who miss the feel of a memory foam pillow.
4. Organic Dunlop Latex
Dunlop latex is an organic latex that is also derived from tree sap. It has an overall denser feel when compared to Talalay latex, so if you prefer a firmer feel to your pillow, Dunlop is an excellent choice.
We love this Dunlop latex pillow in particular because it offers plenty of support with a touch of “give.”
Best For: Side sleepers who like the feel of a foam pillow but also want firmer support than memory foam.
5. Shredded Natural Latex
Shredded latex, while still natural latex, has a totally different feel compared to a formed latex pillow.
A shredded latex pillow is much more movable as it conforms to your neck and shoulder. The latex pillow stuffing has a similar feel to a plush bean bag chair.
Also, unlike a formed latex pillow, a shredded latex pillow is typically adjustable, meaning you can remove as much of the latex pillow fill as you’d like to customize the pillow’s height and feel.
Best For: Those who want a subtly soft pillow that moves with you.
How to Choose A Pillow Fill
Check out this video which describes how to choose the best Savvy Rest adjustable pillow for you.
If you are specifically in need of a pillow that can help alleviate neck and shoulder pain, we recommend reading this blog post.
If you have issues with snoring and need a pillow that will keep you elevated, read this.
We hope this article has helped you learn about the types of pillow stuffing available. Wishing you comfortable, healthy sleep.