A good pillow is essential for getting a good night’s sleep and maintaining proper neck and spine alignment. With so many options available on the market, choosing the right pillow can be overwhelming. Also, if you’re like us, you probably want your pillow to be made in a way that doesn’t harm the environment or bring excess chemicals and toxins into your life. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you find the perfect, eco-friendly pillow for you and your loved ones.
Sleep Position
What position do you most like to sleep in?
- Back sleepers: Opt for a medium-firm pillow that supports the natural curve of your neck.
- Side sleepers: Choose a firmer pillow with enough loft to keep your head and neck aligned.
- Stomach sleepers: Look for a soft and thin pillow to prevent excessive neck strain.
Eco-Friendly Pillow Materials
Look for pillows made from organic and natural materials such as:
- Organic Cotton: Grown without synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, making it a safer and more sustainable choice.
- Organic Wool: Sourced from sheep raised with humane practices and without exposure to harsh chemicals.
- Kapok: A natural fiber extracted from the seeds of the kapok tree, providing a cruelty-free alternative to down.
- Natural Latex: Derived from the sap of rubber trees, it is biodegradable and offers excellent support.
- Organic Buckwheat Hulls: Allows for adjustable loft and provides good air circulation.
Certifications
Check for third-party certifications that validate the eco-friendliness of the pillow, such as:
- Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS): Ensures the organic status of textiles and environmentally responsible manufacturing.
- OEKO-TEX Standard 100: Ensures the absence of harmful substances in the pillow’s materials.
- Rainforest Alliance Certified: Ensures sustainable farming practices for materials like latex and kapok.
Pillow Loft/Height
The pillow loft refers to the height of the pillow when laid flat. The ideal loft depends on your sleep position and shoulder width.
- Side sleepers typically need a higher loft pillow (4 to 6 inches) to keep the head and neck aligned.
- Back sleepers generally require a medium loft pillow (3 to 5 inches) for proper support.
- Stomach sleepers benefit from a low loft pillow (less than 3 inches) to prevent strain on the neck.
Pillow Firmness
The firmness of the pillow is linked to its support level. However, personal preference plays a significant role:
- Soft pillows offer more sinkage and are suitable for people who prefer a cloud-like feel.
- Medium pillows balance softness and support, accommodating various sleep positions.
- Firm pillows provide solid support and are better for those who require extra support for their neck and head.
Allergies and Breathability
If you have allergies, consider hypoallergenic pillow options like natural latex, as it resists dust mites and mold. For breathability, materials like buckwheat allow better air circulation, reducing heat buildup.
Pillow Cover
Choose a pillow with a high-quality, organic cotton, removable, and washable cover. It will keep your pillow clean and fresh for a more extended period.
Trial Period and Warranty
If possible, opt for pillows with a trial period, so you can test its comfort and support. Additionally, look for pillows with warranties to ensure you’re covered against manufacturing defects.
Budget
Pillows come in a wide price range. Set a budget that aligns with your preferences and requirements. Keep in mind that investing in a high-quality pillow can significantly impact your sleep quality.
Replace Regularly
Pillows wear out over time and lose their support. Replace your pillow every 1-2 years, or when you notice signs of deterioration such as lumps, sagging, or decreased support. Washable pillow covers can help extend the life of your pillow.
The My Green Mattress Pillow
My Green Mattress makes a well-loved and eco-friendly pillow. Our My Green Mattress pillow has offered so many people a great place to rest their head. Our pillow is made from natural, organic dunlop latex and infused with charcoal. Why charcoal? Charcoal is a great, natural substance to use in a pillow – it provides temperature regulation, prevents mold, dissipates odors, prevents moisture build-up and reduces allergens. Our pillow also has a sewn-on, GOTS-certified organic cotton cover. It is designed with a medium firmness to specifically cater to back and side sleepers. You can try the pillow for 30-days, risk-free. Learn more here.
