The 8 Best Organic Pillows for Every Type of Sleeper
Updated: Feb. 01, 2024
An organic pillow lets you rest easy without worrying about inhaling toxic chemicals or pesticides as you sleep.
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If the thought of toxic chemicals keeps you from getting a good night’s sleep, it’s definitely time to upgrade to an organic pillow. (And maybe a non-toxic mattress, too!) And if you weren’t aware of the toxic chemicals lurking in your pillows, listen up! Many styles are treated with chemical flame retardants, which potentially release harmful toxins over time. Some foam pillows contain formaldehyde or volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can cause respiratory problems. Cotton is one of the most heavily sprayed crops, meaning your cotton pillows might contain traces of pesticides.
While shopping for organic pillows, it’s important to note that if a product is labeled as hypoallergenic, that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s organic. (Hypoallergenic simply means it won’t trigger an allergic reaction.) The good news is, we read the fine print so you don’t have to, and rounded up eight hotel-quality pillows that are actually organic and perfect for every type of sleeper.
These best organic pillows are available in a variety of styles (including some odd shapes that provide extra support) to fit practically every need and budget. There are even naturally cooling pillows for hot sleepers! The best pillow is both safe and comfortable, and the key to getting a better night’s sleep. Keep reading to find the best organic pillow to calmly cast you off to dreamland.
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Best overall organic pillow
Saatva Latex Pillow
This Saatva organic pillow earns our best overall award for its three-layer design that’s made to fit a variety of needs. It’s suitable for all types of sleepers, no matter if you snooze on your back, stomach or side. The first layer is an organic cotton sateen pillow cover that’s breathable and naturally cooling, making it ideal for hot sleepers. (It’s machine-washable, too!)
The pillow is filled with organic cotton and a hypoallergenic down alternative, meaning it’s free of chemicals and most allergens. What sets this organic latex pillow apart is its third layer that Saatva refers to as “the core.” It’s made of shredded natural latex—a responsive foam that provides outstanding support for your head and neck. One of the many happy reviewers writes: “best sleep I’ve had in a long time,” adding she was “blown away surprised” by the quality.
Pros
- Ideal for all types of sleepers
- Naturally cooling
- Washable organic pillow cover
- Resistant to dust mites and mildew
- 45-day free returns
Cons
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Only available in two sizes
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Best budget organic pillow
Adjustable Organic Cotton Pillow
It’s no secret that pillows can be rather expensive, especially when you’re shopping for more than one. Luckily, we found a budget-friendly organic pillow that allows you to customize how much filling you want! The organic cotton shell arrives fully packed with hypoallergenic poly cluster fiber filling. It offers ample amounts of support as-is. Prefer less fluff? Remove some filling to make it lay flat, which is typically preferred for stomach sleepers.
This organic pillow is available in five sizes, making it perfect for kids and adults alike. Among the many glowing reviews on Amazon, verified purchaser Ron calls it the “perfect pillow for traveling” since it’s “compact enough to put in the carry-on.” Psst—this ear pillow is a dream come true for anyone who likes to go to sleep with their earphones plugged in.
Pros
- Budget-friendly price
- Adjustable design fit for kids and adults
- Hypoallergenic filling
- Entire pillow is machine-washable
- Not bleached for color
Cons
- Free pillowcase only available in off-white
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Best organic latex pillow
Coyuchi Organic Shredded Latex Pillow
If both the shape and substance of your pillow are important factors, then opt for this Coyuchi organic latex pillow. Just peep its clean contents: The removable pillow protector is organic cotton sateen, the inner cover is organic cotton jersey knit and the filling is organic shredded latex. Choose from three sizes to fit your favorite mattress.
This best organic pillow contours to your head, molding itself into practically any shape or position to provide comfort and support all night long. The shredded latex filling is naturally more breathable than polyester and other synthetic materials. The pillow protector is also incredibly soft. Want an extra-luxurious feel? Pair it with a silk pillowcase.
Pros
- Filled with organic latex
- Naturally hypoallergenic
- Removable filling
- Includes a contoured insert
- Molds to your ideal shape
Cons
- Unique design might require an adjustment period
- Outer cover requires spot cleaning
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Best organic down pillow
L.L.Bean Cotton Down Pillow
Although down is known for being extremely warm, it’s actually the perfect all-season material for pillows. Organic down pillows are typically lightweight and absorb body heat, but when the surrounding air is warm, the pillow becomes cooler. Down filling is known for being extra-cushy and luxurious-feeling, which is a huge bonus when you’re looking to upgrade your bedding.
This L.L.Bean organic down pillow uses responsibly-sourced hypoallergenic white down with an organic cotton cover that’s machine-washable. It has a medium-fill weight that’s ideal for back sleepers. And, it’s easy to “fluff back to fullness without effort,” according to one satisfied shopper. Other reviewers say they love this pillow so much, they plan to buy more in the future–and we can’t blame them!
Pros
- Responsibly-sourced hypoallergenic down
- Perfect for back sleepers
- Easy to fluff back into shape
Cons
- Only available in two sizes
- Doesn’t ship to California
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Best organic body pillow
Coyuchi Organic Latex Body Pillow
Instead of buying an ordinary body pillow that’ll likely fall flat after a few weeks, consider this Coyuchi body pillow. It’s made of durable, hypoallergenic latex and the curved U-shaped design provides extra support while you sleep. This type of pillow relieves stress on your shoulders and hip joints, which is especially helpful for side sleepers. It might be a little more expensive, but ensuring a pain-free night’s sleep is worth the investment.
Coyuchi’s organic body pillow has a cotton sateen pillow cover and is filled with a molded organic latex insert. It comes packaged in a reusable cloth bag with a handle making it a fantastic travel pillow. One shopper points out it works well as a straight body pillow and is “highly recommended” for taller people who don’t want a “funny-shaped pregnancy pillow.”
Pros
- Offers extra support for the body
- Ideal for side sleepers
- Made with biodegradable foam
- Resistant to dust mites and mildew
- Comes in a reusable cloth bag
Cons
- Pricey
- Limited choices for pillowcases
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Best organic pregnancy pillow
Organic Maternity Pillow
Getting quality sleep during pregnancy is no easy feat. Luckily, an organic pregnancy pillow makes the journey a little easier on your mind and body. This best-selling PharMeDoc pillow features a unique shape that offers support in both the front and back. Its wrap-around design relieves pain and pressure on your entire upper and lower body. Made with a super-soft organic cotton cover and a recycled polyester filling, it also provides comfort for anyone recovering from surgery or those with regular joint pain.
Just take it from the 58,000+ five-star reviews on Amazon. One happy shopper, Ashley Andrews, calls it the “best invention for pregnancy ever made.” She adds: “My only regret is that I didn’t order it sooner in my pregnancy. Sleeping is so much easier, it’s so comfortable. I was worried that it wouldn’t hold its shape, but believe me, it’s stayed as thick as the day I got it. Don’t hesitate or wait any longer, you won’t regret getting this pillow.”
Pros
- Large, full-body design
- Offers support for everyone—not just pregnant people!
- Available in 10 colors
- Affordable price compared to other pregnancy pillows
- Backed by more than 58,000 five-star ratings
Cons
- Limited choices for pillowcases
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Best organic pillow for toddlers
My Little Dreamy Organic Pillow
Did you know there are organic pillows specifically made for toddlers? If not, now’s the time to grab this KeaBabies pick so your little one can start reaping the benefits right away. They’ll love the soft, organic cotton that’s breathable and gentle on their skin. These pillows are smaller in size to fit twin mattresses, and are ergonomically designed for kids aged two to five, ensuring their growing bodies have adequate spinal support while remaining comfortable.
Kids are messy, which is why we made sure to select an organic toddler pillow that’s easy to clean. Both the pillowcase and the pillow itself can be tossed in a washing machine. Among the 25,000+ five-star reviews, one happy parent says this is the “perfect pillow for transitioning from a no-pillow crib to a pillow big boys’ bed.”
Pros
- Ergonomically designed for toddlers
- Available in 25 colors
- Small enough for travel
- Entire pillow is machine-washable
Cons
- Not ideal for kids over five years old
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Best organic wedge pillow
Avocado Organic Latex Wedge Pillow
Anyone struggling with sinus issues or acid reflux should consider purchasing an organic wedge pillow—like this stellar pick from Avocado—since it props your body at an angle while you sleep. These multi-purpose loungers are useful outside of the bedroom, too. Use them for everyday activities like reading, working from home and elevating your legs after a long day to improve circulation.
Just like the Avocado mattress, this pillow features a breathable cotton fabric and organic latex fill. It is ultra-soft, durable and crazy comfortable, no matter your position. Still not sold? Avocado offers a 100-night trial to help you make a decision. Choose between a 7-inch and 10-inch pillow, and don’t forget to add the specially-designed pillowcase to your cart to make it extra cozy.
Pros
- Unique shape offers a variety of practical uses
- All materials are certified organic and free of chemicals–even the stitching
- Offers a 100-night sleep trial
Cons
- Pillowcase sold separately
What to Consider When Buying an Organic Pillow
Choosing the best sleep products for your needs largely comes down to personal preferences. To narrow down your best options, start with a budget. Then consider your preferred fabrics and materials. Some pillows have organic cotton covers with polyester filling, while others have both an organic cover and organic or natural filling.
Next, figure out your sleeping position. Some styles are made to support all types, while others are specific to stomach, back or side sleepers. When in doubt, we suggest looking for an organic pillow with adjustable filling that allows you to customize how much support it provides.
How We Chose the Best Organic Pillows
As shopping experts, our only job is to help you find a winning product. We start with the research and reporting basics—what products are made of, what they look like and how much they cost—to ensure that we’re only recommending the buys that are worth your time and money. Then, we research the features that speak to the product’s quality, taking advice from industry insiders and subject matter experts on what makes a product a smart value (or worthy of a splurge). Finally, we do the work of combing through user reviews to see how real people interact with the product, and if it stands up to the test.
FAQ
What makes a pillow organic?
Organic pillows are made from natural materials that are grown and processed without the use of harmful chemicals, making them a safer and healthier option. If something is certified as organic, it means its materials are grown without prohibited substances like synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The organic pillows on our list are made with organic cotton, cotton down and latex covers that are free of chemicals and safe for sensitive skin.
Are organic pillows worth it?
Organic pillows can be more expensive than traditional versions, but you can’t really put a price on quality sleep. If you’re looking to use products made with clean ingredients wherever possible, it’s worth the splurge. After all, you spend about a third of your life in bed, so it’s smart to make sure you’re resting your head next to something that won’t harm you.
How often should pillows be replaced?
You probably already wash your pillowcases with your bedding, but don’t forget to clean the pillows themselves, too. Some experts say you should be washing them every three to six months to keep them in good condition, which helps them last longer. Ultimately, though, it’s recommended to replace your bed pillows all together at least every one to two years.
Originally Published: February 16, 2023
