If you’re on the hunt for a pillow that’s durable, cooling and buoyant, you may want to try a latex pillow—though the best latex pillow for you depends on your personal sleep style. According to George Cyril, MD, FAAPMR, physiatrist at the Hospital for Special Surgery, all types of sleepers may find a latex pillow comfortable. In general, stomach sleepers tend to prefer a plush latex pillow, while back and side sleepers might find that a medium-firm to firm latex pillow suits them better. Cyril also says latex pillows offer several benefits, such as being hypoallergenic, antibacterial and resistant to dust mites.
Our team of editors selected the best latex pillows that offer support and comfort.
Illustration: Forbes / Photo: Retailer
Navigating the choices for latex pillows can be confusing due to the different types of latex and various fill choices that may be blended with the latex. We’ve sifted through dozens of latex pillows to find ones that suit various needs—all while using our textiles expertise and knowledge from years of testing sleep products. The Avocado Green Pillow earned its spot as the best overall thanks to its top notch materials and versatility, but we found several great latex options for different sleep preferences. Below are our picks and what you need to know about the best latex pillows.
The Avocado Green Pillow stood out as our top pick for its use of organic latex, kapok (a silky fiber that comes from the seed pods of a kapok tree) and cotton. The pillow is crafted with Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS) certified latex, which means it’s independently certified organic to the GOLS standards. The soft, quilted cotton cover and organic kapok fill are Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certified, so they meet GOTS standards from harvesting to manufacturing, taking into account factors like responsible environment and social manufacturing.
Not only does this pillow prioritize environmental and social responsibility, but it also has thoughtful features to make it more comfortable. According to Avocado, the pillow has a medium-plush feel, but fill can be added or removed. This allows you to customize the amount of support, whether you need a stuffed or flatter pillow. Side, back, stomach and combination sleepers can find their specific pillow height to maximize their sleeping position. The pillow also comes with a pillow refill package in case you need more volume or need some fresh fill later on.
What the reviews say: One customer writes, “I don’t usually give five stars because I have very high standards, but this pillow is five stars... It's peace of mind meets luxurious comfort.” Another reviewer writes, “This is, hands down, the best pillow I’ve ever had. I don’t wake up with neck pain anymore. It has the right amount of softness and firmness. Avocado is also a company that aligns with my ethics in sustainability and choice of a nontoxic and chemical-free lifestyle, making the experience all the better.”
Best Value Latex Pillow
A Lower-Priced Pillow That Doesn't Sacrifice Quality
Amazon
Rejuvenite American Talalay Latex Pillow
Size: Standard, queen| Trial: No trial period but returns accepted | Cover material: 100% Cotton | Fill: 100% Talalay latex
Latex pillows can get pricey, which is why we appreciate the Rejuvenite American Talalay Latex Pillow. Even though it’s more budget-friendly than other latex pillows, it doesn’t compromise on a restful sleep experience. The pillow is supportive yet soft, with enough loft to accommodate a variety of sleep positions. The brand didn’t skimp on the outer cover material, either. It’s a 100% cotton sateen weave with a 400 thread-count—so it should be soft, smooth and durable. In addition, the cover is machine washable, so you can throw it in the wash when it gets dirty.
We love that the latex is perforated for excellent breathability, allowing heat and moisture to escape to keep you cool all night. According to the brand, the latex material is harvested from the sustainable and renewable Hevea tree. You also won’t need to worry about petroleum, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) or off-gassing since the pillow is OEKO-TEX Standard 100. Rejuvenite says its pillows are manufactured in the U.S. and are designed to maintain their shape.
What the reviews say: One customer writes, “I was looking for a decently priced latex pillow and this is it. [It’s] so comfy and durable.” Another, who’s a self-described side and stomach sleeper, says, “I needed a pillow with a little firmness and not so much give that my head would sink in, but enough so that when I turn on my stomach I’m not arching my back. This pillow was the one. It is springy, not like other foam pillows I’ve tried and much lighter weight than other foam pillows. It also is much more supportive than down alternatives and doesn’t require constant fluffing like some pillows.”
Best Latex Pillow For Side Sleepers
Finally, A Pillow Designed Specifically For Side Sleeping
Eli & Elm’s Cooling Side Sleeper Pillow is created with side sleepers in mind. With a focus on side sleeper ergonomics, it has a specialized contour design that allows your head and neck to be supported without your shoulder or the pillow getting in the way. I’ve personally tested over a dozen pillows for side sleepers, and this is the one I continuously reach for because it keeps me comfortable when I sleep on my side. Thanks to the blend of 75% latex and 25% polyester fill, it’s firm enough for great neck support but soft enough that it doesn’t feel hard underneath my head.
When I first received the pillow, I had to remove some of the fill because I like a flatter, softer pillow. But that’s the beauty of it: The pillow can be customized for the firmness level you prefer. The outer cover is machine washable. I’ve washed it multiple times over the last year and it’s held up well. Due to its unique shape, you may want to invest in an Eli & Elm custom pillowcase. However, I’ve used a regular pillowcase and find that it works well enough for me, though it does slightly get in the way at times. The brand also states the pillow is OEKO-TEX certified, so you can rest assured every component has been tested for harmful substances.
What the reviews say: “After a lot of research on pillows suitable for a side sleeper, I took a chance on this rather expensive model,” begins one customer. “It was the right decision. This pillow is high quality and well designed. Not only do I sleep more comfortably and get to sleep more quickly, but years of neck pain were gone overnight.” Another customer writes that it’s a “super comfortable pillow to sleep on” and is “very weighty.”
Size: Standard, queen, king, side sleeper | Trial: 30 days | Cover material: 67% polyester, 32% organic cotton and 1% Spandex | Fill: 75% shredded latex, 25% polyester
This expertly crafted pillow strikes just the right balance between plush comfort and firm support, catering to the needs of back sleepers. The pillow is customizable, so you can add or remove fill until you find the desired amount of loft and support to keep your neck and spine aligned while sleeping on your back.
The fill is a blend of 75% shredded latex and 25% polyester. The shredded latex provides support with some bounce, and the polyester makes the pillow light and feel more plush. Another advantage of shredded fill is it allows for more breathability than a solid piece of latex, making it an ideal option for those who sleep hot. I’ve tested this pillow, and it’s one of my favorite adjustable fill pillows for back sleeping. The side gusset helps ensure it doesn’t lose its height so you won’t wake up with a cramped neck. The cover also feels sleek and smooth, with a slight cool-to-the-touch feel—something hot sleepers should appreciate. It also comes in a side sleeper version and the brand says that no animal products, fire-retardant materials or chemicals are used in this pillow.
What our editors and the reviews say: Forbes Vetted senior mattress and sleep editor Bridget Chapman says this pillow brings a stellar blend of comfort, support and softness. “I really like how you can adjust the pillow firmness to your liking with the removable fill. Along with being super comfortable for back and side sleeping, I also appreciate how cooling this pillow is.” One customer, who’s a self-described back and side sleeper, writes, “I don't know how Nest does it, but this [pillow] provides the exact amount of support and moldability that I need.”
Best Latex Pillow For Spinal Alignment
Head And Ear Cutouts For Optimal Support
Coyuchi
Coyuchi Turiya Organic Latex Pillow
Size: Standard | Trial: 30 days | Cover material: 100% organic cotton | Fill: 100% organic Dunlop latex
The Coyuchi Turiya Organic Latex Pillow distinguishes itself from other pillows with specialized cutouts for your head and ears, optimizing the correct position to cradle your head and neck. Whether you’re sleeping on your back or side, this design helps ensure your spine is properly aligned for a restorative and pain-free sleeping experience. The pillow is made with organic Dunlop latex, which is a firmer type of latex than Talalay, making it great for those who like a firmer pillow or need firmer support. A series of small holes throughout the pillow promote airflow and prevent heat retention, keeping your head cool while you slumber. Coyuchi says the pillow is GOLS-certified, and it comes with an inner pillow cover that has a 400-thread count sateen weave and organic cotton.
What the reviews say: One customer writes, “The moment I first placed my head on the pillow it felt like a warm welcoming cloud and every night since, my entire body says ‘ahhhh’ and deeply relaxes when my head touches the pillow. The cut-out for the head and ears fits really comfortably.” Another adds, “I love it. The ear holes are magic. My ear and jaw pain began to subside immediately [after using the pillow].”
Best Soft Latex Pillow
Sink Right Into This Soft Pillow That Still Offers Support
Saatva
Saatva Latex Pillow
Size: Standard/queen, king | Trial: 45 days | Cover material: 100% organic cotton | Fill: 100% shredded latex
Some latex pillows can feel a little too firm for some people’s liking, which is why we have a soft spot for the Saatva Latex Pillow. This luxurious pillow is the ultimate choice for those who want the support of latex but the softness of a traditional pillow. The core of this pillow is shredded latex wrapped in a cotton cover that’s filled with ultra-fine synthetic fibers to mimic the feeling of down. The cover is machine washable, making care a breeze. The combination of latex and microfibers creates a cushioned yet highly supportive feel.
We love that it’s available in two loft heights: 4 to 5 inches and 6 to 7 inches. Saatva recommends the lower height for back and stomach sleepers, those who prefer a lower pillow or smaller body frames that don’t need as much head elevation. The higher loft fill pillow caters to side and combination sleepers, those who prefer a higher pillow or larger body frames that need more thickness to keep their head propped up.
What the reviews say: “This is the best pillow I have ever purchased,” begins one customer. “The minute I touched the Saatva, I knew it was special. So far, I have not woken up with a headache or sore neck and shoulder pain... I purchased the high loft. I start out sleeping on my side and usually wake up on my back. [The pillow’s] comfortable in both positions.” Another customer writes the pillow is “just right,” adding, “I no longer wake up with headaches and a stiff neck.”
Engineered with advanced cooling technology, Sijo says this pillow actively regulates temperature, preventing heat buildup and promoting a consistently cool and soothing sleep environment throughout the night. The outer removable cover is made with Tencel lyocell and Sijo’s proprietary CLIMA blend, and the fibers are designed to absorb and distribute excess body heat and regulate temperature—so they keep you cool when you’re hot and warm when you’re cold. It also wicks away moisture, making it a good choice for sweaty sleepers. On top of all of that, the cover is quilted to give a slight cushioning effect. We also appreciate how the latex core pillow has holes throughout to let heat and moisture escape. The core uses Talalay latex, so it has a slightly softer feel compared to Dunlop latex pillows.
What the reviews say: “I had the best night’s rest in a while the first day I received this pillow,” one customer writes. “It supports your neck perfectly and keeps cool. So glad I made this purchase, it’s definitely worth the price.” Another reviewer says, “I have tried every pillow out there no matter the price. This is the perfect pillow for a side sleeper: supportive but soft—oh, and refreshingly cool.”
If you want to splurge on a pillow, look no further than the Purple Harmony Pillow. Purple is known for its honeycomb-patterned mattresses and pillows that feel like squishy rubber, making the brand stand out in the bedding market. The Harmony pillow uses the brand’s signature Purple Hex Grid cushioning technology for the outer material, surrounding a supportive inner core of latex.
I’ve slept on this pillow and was impressed with its breathability due to the honeycomb construction that doesn’t trap heat. This is a great choice for people who sleep hot to prevent any heat fluctuation. The cover fabric is made with moisture-wicking mesh fabric to keep you cool and dry. Unlike some other pillows I’ve tested, this pillow bounces back to its original shape almost instantly and keeps its shape over time. You won’t find yourself buying another pillow in a few months because it fell flat. It also comes in three different heights: low, medium and high—ensuring you get the right height for your needs.
What the reviews say: “This pillow is fantastic,” writes one customer. “It holds support a year later just as it was when it arrived. I sleep on my side and this has great neck support. They are flexible, breathable and supportive all in one. I have no stiff necks or sleeping problems. I love it.” Another customer writes that he’s never had a pillow like the Purple Harmony and that its “cooling effect in addition to the sturdiness make this pillow second to none.”
Here at Forbes Vetted, we spend a lot of time reviewing, researching and testing products that help provide the highest quality sleep. After all, we spend about a third of our lives in bed, so a restful slumber is essential. We work to find the very best in everything sleep-related, from the best mattresses to the best cooling sheets.
Jamie Ueda, the author of this story, is a regular contributor who has vast experience with sleep, fabric and material, in particular. In order to pull together this list of the best latex pillows, she used her experience testing dozens upon dozens of pillows over the years, her educational knowledge from degrees in textile design and mechanical engineering and her experience working in product development and quality assurance at a home textiles company as well as at Nike. We also spoke with George Cyril, MD FAAPMR, physiatrist at HSS.
How We Chose The Best Latex Pillows
When choosing the best latex pillows, I sorted through dozens of latex pillows online. I looked at popular latex pillows, options from well-known brands and researched choices on Amazon. As noted above, I tapped into my knowledge from previous product testing (including multiple pillows that made this list), my educational and professional textile background and my previous work experience in textile product development and quality engineering to ensure products met the highest quality standards.
The latex pillows featured in this list are highly rated and reviewed by customers like you. Additionally, I’ve personally tried several products from brands featured on this list and included pillows from companies that have performed consistently well over the years of testing apparel and textile products.
What To Look For When Shopping For A Latex Pillow
Let’s go over some key factors to keep in mind on your shopping journey.
Certifications
When looking for latex pillows, you may encounter various certifications, including Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS), Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) and OEKO-TEX certifications. When a brand’s product carries these certifications, it means it successfully passed the test criteria set by these independent organizations. While there are similarities among the different groups, each certification has its own set of criteria. Some certifications place a greater emphasis on testing for chemicals, while others focus on responsible environmental and social manufacturing practices. Here’s a general overview of the most common certifications you may see when shopping for latex pillows, but if you want to know the specific criteria, be sure to explore their respective websites.
Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS). This certification is specific to latex, guaranteeing that at least 95% of the raw materials used to make the latex are organic. They have set criteria for organic certification of raw materials, restrictions on pesticides and chemicals used on the land and guidelines for waste management in the latex manufacturing process. Additionally, the certification includes guidelines for social responsibility, covering aspects such as working hours, living wages and the prevention of child labor, among other considerations.
Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS). This certification applies to any organic fiber, ensuring the textiles meet specific environmental and social criteria. The assessment of these guidelines extends from the harvesting of raw materials to the manufacturing process. This includes chemical restrictions (flame retardants, formaldehyde and more) and waste management. The GOTS standard also addresses social responsibility, such as child labor, gender equality, safe working conditions and more.
OEKO-TEXhas various certifications, with the most common one being OEKO-TEX Standard 100. This certification means the item has undergone testing for a wide range of harmful substances, both regulated and non-regulated.
Type of Latex
When shopping for the best latex pillows you encounter two main types: Dunlop and Talalay latex. The major difference is Dunlop feels more dense and firm, while Talalay is softer and lighter. The choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preferences. Those who favor firm support may prefer Dunlop latex and those who like a softer feel may find Talalay latex suits them better. There’s also natural and synthetic latex. Natural latex is made from rubber tree sap, while synthetic latex is derived from petroleum.
Do Latex Pillows Flatten Over Time?
Latex pillows show faster recovery to their original shape compared to other pillow types, so they won’t flatten out immediately after use. According to Cyril, latex pillows have a higher durability than others. While this suggests they will maintain their shape over time, it’s important to note that, like any pillow, they will eventually degrade, but it may occur at a slower rate than other types of pillows, such as polyfill or down. Keep in mind a number of factors determine if a pillow will flatten out, such as if the latex is one piece or shredded. Check the brand’s return policy and warranties if that’s a concern.
Can Bed Bugs Live In Latex Pillows?
If the pillow is one solid, dense piece of latex, it’s unlikely bed bugs can make their way inside. However, pillows with holes or shredded fill may leave space open for bed bugs to crawl into, although they are typically found in places like piping, seams and tags. If you’re concerned about bed bugs, we recommend investing in a bed bug pillow protector.
What Is The Lifespan Of A Latex Pillow?
Some brands say a latex pillow can last 5 to 7 years, but there isn’t a consensus on the lifespan of a latex pillow. Several factors, such as frequency of use, the use of a pillowcase protector and overall care, can influence its longevity. Although latex as a material tends to be more durable than other fill types, that doesn’t take into account variables like if the latex has perforations or if it’s shredded and blended with another fill. It’s best to check the brand’s return policy and any warranties if you’re worried about the longevity of your pillow.
Does Latex Off-Gas?
Some latex pillows do not give off an odor, while others may emit a faint smell when they are first opened. Typically, this dissipates over time—generally a few days. You may want to consider airing out your pillow in a well-ventilated room for a few days to help reduce any initial off-gassing.
