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7 Best Organic Pillow Picks [2023]

Looking for the best organic pillow? Here are the 7 top picks for organic pillows – no matter what kind of sleeper you are! Click here to skip to the list!

Everyone needs a good night’s sleep. It is essential for our overall health and well-being. Whether you know it or not, the quality of your sleep is directly tied to the quality of your bed and bedding. And a huge part of this is how comfortable your pillow is alongside the materials it’s made with. 

Therefore, you need your pillow to be as comfortable as possible if you want to sleep comfortably every night. But with so many different types of pillows on the market today, choosing the right one for your needs can be overwhelming. That’s where we come in. 

I’ve previously discussed the best organic nursing pillows and the best organic pillows for toddlers.

This article will focus on organic pillows and what makes them special. It shall highlight the benefits of using them and provide a comprehensive list of the 7 best organic pillow picks for 2023. In the end, you should be able to easily pick out the best choice for your needs. 

Let’s dive right in, shall we? 

Overview Of The 7 Best Organic Pillow Picks for 2023

In creating this article, we have considered various factors such as comfort, support, materials, and certifications to bring you a comprehensive list of the 7 best organic pillows for 2023.

Here is a summary of the pillows that will be covered: 

7 Best Organic Pillows List

Because organic pillows come in all sorts of shapes, sizes, and materials, picking the best one for you can be tough.

That’s why we decided to round up some of the best organic pillows on the market to help make that choice a little easier for you.

Here are the best options for an organic pillow:

Natural Talalay Pillow from Savvy Rest

Top Pick
Natural Talalay Pillow
$149

The Natural Talalay Pillow is made from Cradle to Cradle Gold-certified natural Talalay latex. It is designed to be responsive, providing a soft and supportive sleeping surface. You’ll love that this pillow is both comfortable and durable and the perfect choice for people who suffer from allergies or sensitivities.

Of all of the organic pillows I have tried, this one is my favorite. It is extremely comfortable and I am having significantly less neck pain as a side sleeper. I am very, very pleased with my Talalay pillow! I have the standard size.

Pros:

  • Soft and supportive
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Dust mite and mold resistant
  • Very durable

Cons:

  • May be too soft for some (they have other options for different sleeping positions)
  • Higher price point compared to other pillows (use code GEN20 to save 20% off all Savvy Rest products!)
savvy rest pillow

Avocado Green Pillow

Avocado Green Pillow
$109

The Avocado Green Pillow is a non-toxic organic pillow that comes with an adjustable fill. It is made using GOLS-certified organic latex and GOTS-certified organic kapok. It is designed to provide a super comfortable sleeping surface that is also healthy and non-toxic. Its medium-firm support is perfect for side, back, and stomach sleepers.

Pros:

  • Provides medium-firm support
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Made using GOLS-certified latex and GOTS-certified kapok
  • Durable

Cons:

  • Some may find the smell of latex off-putting
  • May be too firm for some

Naturepedic PLA Pillow with Organic Cotton Fabric

Cheapest
Naturepedic PLA Pillow
$79

The Naturepedic PLA Pillow with Organic Cotton Fabric is a luxurious fiber-based pillow that is derived almost entirely from sugarcane. The outer cover is made using 100% certified organic cotton. This pillow is designed to be soft, supportive, and hypoallergenic. 

Pros:

  • Its design  is a simple yet innovative concept
  • Derived almost entirely from sugarcane
  • More affordable than other options on this list
  • Dust mite and mold resistant

Cons:

  • May be too soft for some
  • May not be as supportive as other pillows

Naturepedic Solid Organic Latex Pillow

Naturepedic Solid Organic Latex Pillow
$99

The Naturepedic Solid Organic Latex Pillow is made from 100% pure organic latex. It is designed to offer unmatched support for your neck and spine. It is also hypoallergenic and dust mite and mold resistant, making it perfect for people with allergies. 

Pros:

  • Comes with a solid latex core
  • Sleeps cool
  • Never goes flat
  • Highly supportive

Cons

  • May be too firm for some people
  • Some people may find the latex smell off-putting
  • Provides good neck support

Natural latex pillows are very comfortable and a good choice if you don’t like a soft pillow.

Saatva Latex Pillow

Saatva Latex Pillow
$165

The Saatva Latex Pillow is designed to give you hotel-quality comfort with responsive and ultra-breathable support. It is a luxurious and eco-friendly option that is made using shredded natural latex to give it responsive head and neck supporting abilities. The cotton cover is soft, breathable, and hypoallergenic, making it a great choice for allergy sufferers.

Pros:

  • Shredded natural latex core provides customized support and comfort
  • The cotton cover is soft, breathable, and hypoallergenic
  • Comfortable and supportive
  • Highly durable

Cons:

  • May be too firm for some people
  • Higher price point compared to other organic pillows

Boll and Branch Pillow

Boll and Branch Pillow Insert
$88

The Boll and Branch Pillow is a unique entry to this list for many reasons. The pillow is available in 3 different densities to guarantee that there is something for every type of sleeper. Depending on your sleep style, you can go for the soft density if you are a stomach sleeper, the medium density if you are a side sleeper, or the firm density if you are a back sleeper. No matter what option you go for, you can be sure that you’ll be getting a soft and luxurious pillow that is also sustainable and environmentally friendly. 

Pros:

  • More options for different types of sleepers
  • Made using eco-friendly materials
  • Hypoallergenic and dust mite resistant
  • Fill can be adjusted for personalized comfort

Cons:

  • With so many options available, it can be difficult to pick the right choice for you as you may end up having a pillow that is either too soft or too hard.

EcoterraBeds 100% Natural Latex Pillow

100% Natural Latex Pillow
$59

The cheapest entry on this list, the EcoterraBeds 100% Natural Latex Pillow is a supportive and eco-friendly option that provides a very comfortable sleep surface. This pillow is made with 100% natural latex that gives it a light and fluffy feel. However, you still get cradling support for your head as you sleep. It also comes with a high-quality organic cotton cover that is breathable, comfortable, and moisture-wicking. 

Pros:

  • Made using 100% natural latex to provide customized support and comfort
  • The cotton cover is soft, breathable, and hypoallergenic, a great choice for people with allergies
  • Very affordable, making it the perfect choice if you are on a tight budget
  • 3-year warranty

Cons:

  • May not be as long-lasting as other options on this list

Why should you sleep with a comfortable, organic pillow? 

As we have seen, sleep is a crucial part of your daily routine. The quality of sleep that you get will greatly impact your energy levels for the rest of the day. 

A comfortable pillow will help provide proper support for your neck and head. This will reduce aches and pains in the morning.

Additionally, when you have a great pillow, you will be able to sleep better, which will help you feel well-rested and refreshed when you wake up.

What is an organic pillow?

An organic pillow is a pillow that has been made using natural materials. This includes materials that are grown and processed without the use of harmful chemicals and avoiding the use of synthetic materials. 

Picking a non-toxic pillow made of natural fibers is better for your health.

Common materials used in organic pillows include organic cotton, organic latex, organic wool, buckwheat hulls, and kapok.

In most cases, these materials are grown using sustainable methods. They are also free from pesticides and processed without using any harmful chemicals.

When it comes to organic cotton pillows, your pillow could be made of completely organic cotton materials (the best pillows are this way) or just have an organic cotton cover.

Pros of Organic Pillows

Like any product, organic pillows have both pros and cons. Here are some of their advantages: 

  • They are chemical-free and safer for your health
  • Very environmentally friendly
  • Made entirely using all-natural materials for a comfortable and breathable sleeping surface
  • They are hypoallergenic, coming with the ability to reduce allergens
  • They last longer and are more durable than other pillows

Cons of Organic Pillows

And here is a look at some of the not-so-great things that you can expect from them: 

  • They may be more expensive than synthetic pillows
  • They may not have the same level of firmness or support as synthetic pillows
  • Some materials, such as buckwheat hulls, may have a distinct odor

What Types of Organic Pillows Exist

When it comes to organic pillows, there are a variety of materials to choose from. Each of these materials offers unique benefits and drawbacks.

Therefore, it is important to choose the one that best suits your individual needs.

Here is a look at the various types of organic pillows that you can buy right now: 

  • Organic Cotton: This is one of the most popular materials for organic pillows. It is soft, hypoallergenic, and provides a comfortable sleeping surface. You will also love that it is a very breathable material. 
  • Organic Latex: Another popular option, organic latex is known for its supportive and durable qualities. It provides a comfortable and responsive sleeping surface. It is a great choice for people who prefer a firmer pillow.
  • Organic Wool: Organic wool is a natural insulator. This makes it the perfect choice for regulating temperature throughout the night. It is also hypoallergenic and dust mite-resistant. An organic wool makes it a great choice if you have allergies or have had an allergic reaction to other materials in the past.
  • Buckwheat Hulls: This is another unique material that is often used in organic pillows. Buckwheat hulls are perfect for creating a supportive and adaptable sleeping surface. They are also great for temperature regulation.
  • Kapok: Kapok is a fine, fibrous substance like cotton that grows around the seeds of the ceiba tree. Kapok fibers are a natural lightweight material that provides a comfortable and supportive sleeping surface. It is also hypoallergenic.

What about silk and down? 

Well, these two materials are not recommended for use in organic pillows for several reasons.

First, they are often treated with chemicals to preserve them. This is unfortunate because silk is nice for keeping your hair in good confident. Down is also typically a nice insulator – a down pillow is not a good choice if you are a hot sleeper.

Secondly, you may also want to avoid them because they are harvested from animals, and the process of harvesting them often results in the death of the animal.

This goes against the principles of organic and sustainable living but it depends on how they are harvested as well as your personal values.

Certifications To Look For

When shopping for an organic pillow, keep an eye out for certifications that verify the quality and sustainability of the product.

Note that not all organic pillows will have every certification listed here. However, the presence of one or more of these certifications can give you added confidence in the product.

Here is a list of some of the certifications to look for before making your purchase: 

  • GOLS (Global Organic Latex Standard): GOLS is a certification specifically for organic latex products. GOLS Certified products are made using 100% organic latex that is free from synthetic additives. The latex is also responsibly sourced. If your pillow has this certification, you can be sure that all the materials used to make it have been sustainably harvested and processed without harmful chemicals.
  • GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard): GOTS is a well-respected certification for organic textiles, including pillows, bed sheets, and other bedding products. It verifies that the product is made from organic fibers and that strict environmental and social criteria have been met throughout the production process.
  • USDA Organic: The USDA Organic certification indicates that a product has been produced according to the USDA’s strict organic production and labeling standards. These standards will vary depending on the specific material. 
  • Greenguard: Greenguard is a certification that verifies that a product meets strict chemical emissions standards. This makes it a good certification to look out for if you have chemical sensitivities or if you want to create a healthier indoor environment.
  • OKEO-TEX Standard 100: OKEO-TEX Standard 100 is a certification that tests for harmful substances in textiles and other consumer goods. On your pillow, this certification verifies that it has been tested for harmful chemicals and is free from substances that can harm your health or the environment.
  • Eco-Institute: Eco-Institute is a certification for eco-friendly and sustainable products. It verifies that the product meets strict environmental and sustainability criteria. It also guarantees that the production process used to make it had a minimal impact on the environment.
  • Made Safe: This is a certification for products that are free from harmful chemicals and toxins. If your pillow is Made Safe certified, it means that it was created using safe materials and does not have any toxic substances that may be harmful to your health. 
  • Climate Neutral: This certification is reserved for products that have had their carbon footprint assessed and offset through a range of sustainable practices and renewable energy investments. For a pillow, it means that the brand has worked to reduce greenhouse emissions from making and delivering the product and compensates for the emissions that it does produce. 
  • Vegan: For those who prefer cruelty-free and animal-free products, the Vegan certification is a good choice. This certification verifies that the organic pillow is free from animal products and that no animal testing has been involved in the production process.
  • B-Corp Companies: B-Corp is a certification for companies that meet high standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. B-Corp-certified companies are committed to using business as a force for good. 

Looking for these certifications in your pillow or organic cotton shell can help limit the number of VOCs (volatile organic compounds) you are exposed to while you sleep!

Why should you choose an organic pillow?

Well, choosing an organic pillow is simply the better option because it is healthier for you and better for the environment. Conventional pillows are full of toxic chemicals, including flame retardants, that are damaging to your health.

As we have seen before, organic pillows are made using materials that are natural and therefore better for your health.

They also reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals. Organic materials also provide a safer, more natural sleeping surface, reducing the risk of allergens. 

Additionally, the production process of organic pillows is more environmentally friendly. This reduces the impact that they have on the planet.

What To Consider When Choosing an Organic Pillow

When looking for the perfect organic pillow, there are several important factors to consider. Here are some of them: 

What type of sleeper you are (side, back, stomach)

The kind of sleeper you are will play a significant role in determining the right pillow for you.

For example, side sleepers usually need a firmer pillow to keep their neck and spine in alignment.

Back sleepers, on the other hand, will be more comfortable with a softer pillow. Stomach sleepers should go for very soft pillows to minimize neck and back strain.

Firmness

The firmness of a pillow directly affects the level of support it provides.

A firmer pillow provides more support for your neck and head.

A softer pillow, on the other hand, is more comfortable for cuddling.

Try to find the right balance of comfort and support that best suits your sleeping needs. 

Shape

Organic pillows come in various shapes. There are rectangular, cylindrical, and even contoured options. Some people prefer rectangular pillows because they are easy to adjust and fluff.

Others prefer cylindrical or contoured pillows for the added neck and head support that they provide.

Materials

Organic pillows can be made of a variety of different materials. Natural pillows are better at keeping dust mites away, too.

Consider the feel of each material and how it will affect your sleep.

For example, some people may find buckwheat pillows noisy while others love the support they provide.

Price

Organic pillows can range in price from relatively inexpensive to quite costly.

The price will depend on the brand, the manufacturing process, and the materials that have been used to make the pillow.

While it may be tempting to go for the cheaper option, sometimes, it is wise to invest in quality if you want to enjoy better sleep and improve your overall health. 

Support

Support is yet another important factor to consider when choosing an organic pillow.

Ideally, you want to get one that provides enough support to keep your neck and spine in alignment, regardless of your sleeping position.

Temperature Regulation

Lastly, you should also consider the temperature regulation of the organic pillow.

Some materials are more breathable than others, coming with the ability to wick away moisture.

This will keep you cool and comfortable throughout the night. Other materials are great at providing more insulation, which is exactly what you need if you want to keep warm at night. 

best organic pillow

Organic Pillow FAQ

How to tell if a pillow is organic?

One of the best ways to determine if a pillow is organic is to look at its certifications. If it has one or more of the certifications listed above, it is likely organic. It is also always a good idea to check the product label or packaging for details on the materials used.

What is the cost of an organic pillow?

The cost of an organic pillow will vary greatly depending on the brand, materials used, and the certifications it comes with.

On average, an organic pillow can cost anywhere from $50 to $200 or more. While they may cost slightly more than your average pillow, you get more value for your money because they come with better-quality materials.

They also lead to improved sleep and a reduction in exposure to harmful chemicals and toxins.

How do you clean organic pillows?

Clean your organic pillows just as you would traditional pillows. You can either spot-clean the pillow or wash it in a machine.

For spot cleaning, simply use a clean cloth and a mild soap and water solution. For machine washing, you want to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Generally, though, it is a good idea to consider washing them in cold water. Also, avoid using bleach or other harsh chemicals to clean them. 

How long do they last?

The lifespan of an organic pillow depends on several factors, including the materials used, the frequency of use, and how well the pillow is cared for.

On average, an organic pillow can last anywhere from 1 to 5 years, although some may last even longer with proper care.

Do organic pillows have a smell to them?

Some organic pillows may have a slight smell the first time you open them. However, this should mostly dissipate within a few days.

If the smell persists, it’s a good idea to air out the pillow. Alternatively, you can simply wash it following the manufacturer’s instructions. 

Final Thoughts

Sleeping on a comfortable and supportive pillow is one of the simplest ways to get better sleep.

If you have been trying to find a way to improve the quality of your sleep while also reducing your exposure to harmful toxins, investing in a good quality organic pillow is a great way to start.

All you have to do is choose one of the 7 recommendations outlined above. Good luck! 

About the Author

Nicole Booz is the founder of GenTwenty and GenThirty. She is an entrepreneur, author of The Kidult Handbook, and most importantly, Mama to two beautiful little boys. She loves reading, organizing her home, and living a simple, less toxic lifestyle. You've seen her in The New York Times, TIME, Insider, Inside Edition, New York Post, NextAdvisor, Forbes, Yahoo, HuffPost, and U.S. News & World Report.

Website: www.genthirty.com