The Best Cooling Pillows, Tested and Researched
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Our top pick is the Eden Pillow from Coop Home Goods
The Spruce / Rachel Marek
Fact checked by Richard Scherr
A cooling bed pillow can help regulate your body temperature while wicking away sweat and keeping you comfortable in whatever position you sleep. However, it's important to note that pillows can't actively cool you.
"Instead, think of them as temperature-regulating pillows [that] won't absorb heat like others on the market," says Logan Foley, managing editor at SleepFoundation.org. "When we're talking about cooling pillows, the marketing can be slightly misleading."
With that in mind, we tested and researched the best cooling pillows available online, evaluating each on quality and skin-feel of shell, cooling properties of fill, how easy it is to keep clean, and the type of support it provides sleepers.
Ahead, find the best cooling pillows to stay supported and cool at night.
Best Overall: Coop Sleep Goods The Eden Pillow
The supremely plush blend of gel-infused memory foam and microfiber keep you cool throughout the night.
Full Review: Coop Sleep Goods Memory Foam Pillow Review
What We Like
Luxurious shell
Adjustable fill
CertiPUR-US certified
What We Don't Like
Expensive
If we could only recommend one pillow for hot sleepers, we'd have to go with the Eden Pillow from Coop Home Goods. Earning an almost-perfect score during our lab tests, we love the luxuriously thick and stretchy shell and adjustable fill. It's easy to add and remove the filling, as needed, and it comes with extra foam for those who prefer a firmer bed pillow.
The individual pieces of foam inside this pillow are larger and softer than others we tested, making them easier to remove or adjust without making a mess. The foam has a fluffy feel—similar to a down-filled pillow—and it even comes with a bag of extra foam for those who prefer a denser cushion.
Inside is a supremely plush blend of gel-infused, CertiPUR-US certified, shredded memory foam and ultra-fine microfiber pieces that mimic the natural loft of real down. The unique mix promises to deliver a cooling effect while you doze. What's more, the bamboo-derived viscose rayon shell ensures breathability and draws sweat away from your body.
We noticed a slight odor upon unboxing the Eden Pillow, but it was gone once we washed the cover. Though it's on the pricier side for a single pillow, the high-quality design and fill of this option make it well worth the initial investment.
Price at time of publish: $96
Sizes: Queen, king | Fill Material: Gel-infused shredded memory foam, microfiber | Shell Material: Viscose rayon and polyester | Care: Machine-wash cold, tumble-dry low
Best Budget : Himoon Bed Pillows
This soft and breathable pillow also comes in at an affordable price-point.
What We Like
Affordable
CertiPUR-US certified
Easy to clean
What We Don't Like
Not cool to the touch
For folks on a budget, we recommend the HIMOON pillow. It's filled with CertiPUR-US-certified microfibre, which mimics the feel of a down pillow. While this pick didn't necessarily feel cool to the touch, it had temperature-regulating properties that can help prevent overheating.
The best part of this pick is how little it changes after washing. The brand recommends popping the pillow into the dryer to puff it up, which made the pillow look brand new. This pick proves to be durable and maintains its shape after multiple laundry loads. We loved that it didn't lose much of its loft over a week's worth of time, allowing it to stay fluffy and lifted. This can provide valuable and long-term support for side and stomach sleepers—which we especially loved.
Price at time of publish: $23
Sizes: Standard, queen, king | Fill Material: Down-like microfibre | Shell Material: 100% Microfiber fabric material | Care: Machine washable
Best Foam: Tuft & Needle Original Foam Pillow
This exceptionally supportive option adapts to the shape of your neck while wicking away heat.
What We Like
Supportive
Breathable
Conforms to shape
Pulls heat from body for cooling effect
What We Don't Like
No queen size
Not adjustable
Core is not machine washable
Tuft & Needle's Original Foam Pillow is made of a special adaptive foam, graphite, and cooling gel to support your head and neck. This design is ideal for back sleepers who crave support as well as a pillow that can draw heat away from your skin and regulate body temperature. We noticed an immediate cooling sensation that didn't subside with repeated use. The gel beads also stack up when you apply pressure and become more supportive.
The material is dense but lightweight and plush, and it conforms to your shape and preferred sleeping position. This pillow isn't adjustable, and the foam core shouldn't be washed in a washing machine. However, the soft, stretchy case is removable and machine-washable. The pillow appears durable as it remained both supportive and comfortable even after multiple nights. This is a universally comfortable and supportive option for every type of sleeper.
Price at time of publish: $100
Sizes: Standard, king | Fill Material: Adaptive foam, graphite, cooling gel | Shell Material: Micro-polyamide, polyester | Care: Machine-washable cover
Best Down Alternative : Slumber Cloud Core Down Alternative Pillow
This down alternative pillow has cooling technology tested by NASA for an out of this world effect.
What We Like
Two firmness levels
Cooling technology
Maintains shape and fluffiness after wash
What We Don't Like
No queen size
With cooling technology approved by NASA, you'll never have to flip over to the cool side of the Slumber Cloud Core Down Alternative Pillow. The 300-thread count cotton cover allows for soft, breathable comfort that releases heat and regulates your temperature through the night. We noticed that the cover felt cool to the touch and kept cool all night long. It seemed to allow for plenty of air circulation throughout the night as well.
What's more, the down alternative filling remained comfortable and supportive even after washing. While it appears thin, it supports the neck and shoulders, even for combination sleepers. There are two firmness levels to choose from so you can find the perfect fit for you. Plus, the website offers tons of helpful information for finding the best fit for your sleep style.
Price at time of publish: $64
Sizes: Standard, king | Fill Material: 100% down alternative fiber-fill | Shell Material: Cotton | Care: Machine-wash
The 11 Best Cooling Sheets of 2023, Tested and Reviewed
Best for Side Sleepers : Purple Harmony Pillow
This multi-layered pillow features a jello-like core for optimal comfort and cooling.
What We Like
Supports head and neck
Three thicknesses available
Maintains shape well
What We Don't Like
Expensive
Though the Purple Harmony Pillow is one of the more expensive options out there—side sleepers swear by its construction. The brand uses the same cushioning technology seen in their mattresses to create a supportive base with a breathable mesh cover for a cool and comfortable night's sleep.
Made from honeycombed GelFlex layer and Talalay latex core that almost feels like jello, this pillow maintains its shape through the night and after repeated washes. The pillow feels heavy out of the package, adding to its high-quality construction and heavy-duty support. The moisture-wicking comfort will keep you cool through the night, regulating your body temperature while sleeping. Plus, the pillow stays lofted even after long-term use—no fluffing required. For side and stomach sleepers, you'll have optimal comfort, maximized by the three different height options suitable for every sleeping position.
Price at time of publish: $179
Sizes: Standard, king | Fill Material: Hypoallergenic ventilated latex | Shell Material: 92% Nylon Fiber, 8% Spandex Fiber | Care: Machine wash cover on cold, Air dry
The Best Pillows for Side Sleepers to Rest Easy
Best Machine Washable : Saatva Latex Pillow
This pillow has an organic cotton cover and a responsive, natural latex core that supports the head and neck.
What We Like
Naturally antimicrobial
Breathable
Removable core
Easy to clean
What We Don't Like
Filling not completely removable
If you're open to splurging on a top-tier pillow that actually delivers on its promises, Saatva's Latex Pillow is definitely worth considering. It's filled with shredded latex, a plant-sourced material with inherent temperature-regulating abilities. Latex is also naturally antimicrobial, so it won't harbor odor-causing bacteria from night sweats. This also contributed to the pillow having no smell when opening, which we thought added to its premium appearance.
Within the shredded latex is another small pillow filled with down-like microdenier fibers (a finer version of microfiber fill). Though you can't add or remove the latex pieces, you can take out the inner core to adjust the thickness and support. We also liked that it has a removable and machine-washable organic cotton cover, ensuring breathability, softness, and easy cleaning. The pillow returned to its original fluffy size after washing, but it takes a few cycles to get fully dry.
Price at time of publish: $165
Sizes: Queen, king | Fill Material: Shredded latex, micro-denier fiber | Shell Material: Organic cotton | Care: Machine-washable cover
The 11 Best Pillows of 2023, Tested and Reviewed
Best Silk : Cozy Earth Silk Pillow
Opt for a silk pillow for an undeniable luxurious softness.
What We Like
Soft and breathable fabric
10 year warranty
Stays cool all night
What We Don't Like
Not very firm
Enjoy the luxury and benefits of silk with Cozy Earth's silk pillows made from 100 percent viscose from bamboo. Right off the bat, we were impressed with the high-quality appearance and feel of this pillow. The cloud-like silk provides undeniable softness along with cooling benefits. During testing, we stayed cool all night long even on the hottest summer days with this pick. While the filling stays consistent throughout, be warned this is not an extremely firm option.
We love that the brand provides very detailed instructions for caring for your silk pillow at home. After drying on low, the pillow maintained its shape and softness.
Price at time of publish: $279
Sizes: Standard, king | Fill Material: 100% Mulberry Silk | Shell Material: Premium 100% viscose from bamboo fabric | Care: Rinse-cycle only, do not spin, machine dry on low heat
Get Sweet Dreams with the Best Silk Pillowcases of 2023
Best Firm: Marlow The Pillow
The mess-free design makes it easy to add or remove the chopped memory foam fill.
What We Like
Mess-free adjustability
Breathable
Two-year warranty
What We Don't Like
No queen size
Not machine-washable
If adjustability is a priority, Marlow might be your best bet. This design is a bit more clever than other pillows that require you to add and remove handfuls of the fill material. You can customize the firmness, support, and loftiness using the hidden zipper—no mess and no need to store a bag of extra fibers. After a bit of trial and error, we found the perfect firmness for them, eliminating overnight neck pain. Plus, the zippers and other materials feel durable and long-lasting.
Marlow stuffs its pillows with 80 percent gel-infused, chopped memory foam and 20 percent down-alternative polyester fibers. This ratio was thoughtfully gauged to provide the perfect level of plushness for all types of sleepers. Combination sleepers will love the comfort the pillow provides after adjustment. Coupled with a sateen cotton shell and airy mesh gussets, the proprietary fill blend adds supplementary cooling properties. Though this pillow isn't machine-washable, we appreciate the reasonable price point and two-year warranty.
Price at time of publish: $65
Sizes: Standard, king | Fill Material: Gel-infused chopped memory foam, poly fiber | Shell Material: Sateen cotton, polyester mesh | Care: Spot-clean
The 17 Best Pillows for Combination Sleepers of 2023
Best for Stomach Sleepers: Pillow Guy Down Alternative Soft Stomach Sleeper Pillow
The vegan-friendly fill mimics the fluffiness of down, and it's machine-washable for easy maintenance.
What We Like
Plush yet fluffy
Breathable
Machine-washable
What We Don't Like
Expensive
Not adjustable
If you sleep most comfortably on your stomach, the Pillow Guy can ensure a restful night's sleep, while keeping you cool. The brand's Stomach Sleeper Pillow is filled with gel-infused polyester fibers. Designed to draw heat away from your body throughout the night, the down-alternative material offers the perfect amount of plushness and loft without squishing your face.
This pillow has a soft, naturally breathable percale cotton case with a 280 thread count to encourage airflow. Between the fill and the case is a waterproof microfiber shell that prevents sweat and body oils from getting trapped inside. We also like that you can wash both the case and the entire pillow. The Stomach Sleeper is somewhat pricey, and it's not adjustable, but it's an all-around excellent lightweight choice, especially if you favor a fluffy pillow.
Price at time of publish: $249
Sizes: Standard/queen, king | Fill Material: Gel-infused poly fibers | Shell Material: Percale cotton | Care: Machine-wash cold, tumble-dry low
Best Gusseted: Sealy All Night Cooling Pillow
The plush design supports your neck while cooling technology keeps you climate-controlled.
What We Like
Reasonably priced
Temperature-regulating
Lifetime warranty
Machine-washable
What We Don't Like
Not ideal for stomach sleepers
The All Night Cooling Pillow is a simple yet supportive cooling pillow from the heritage mattress and sleeper brand, Sealy. Featuring 2-inch gussets on all four sides, it provides head and neck support for folks who prefer sleeping on their backs or sides. The brand's proprietary bio-based HeiQ Smart Temp cooling technology is designed to adjust to your body temperature to keep you cool throughout the night.
Bear in mind this pillow isn't adjustable, and the shell doesn't come off. However, the entire thing is machine-washable for your convenience. Not only that, but Sealy backs this product with an almost unheard-of lifetime warranty.
Price at time of publish: $29
Sizes: Queen, king | Fill Material: Poly fiber | Shell Material: Microfiber | Care: Machine-wash cold, tumble-dry
Best Moisture-Wicking: The Company Store Cool Zzz Deluxe Pillow
The unique fiber fill relieves pressure points while the cotton shell draws sweat away from your body.
What We Like
Draws sweat away from skin
Temperature-regulating
Machine-washable
What We Don't Like
Expensive
While the Cool Zzz Deluxe might look like your average bed pillow, it flaunts a range of impressive features and cutting-edge technologies. The sateen cotton outer shell is smooth to the touch, naturally breathable, and moisture-wicking, helping draw sweat away from your skin while you sleep. Just below the shell is a heat-absorbing liner to help you maintain a comfortable temperature.
Inside, you've got a special poly-fiber fill designed to mimic the loftiness and temperature-regulating abilities of real down. It's made to provide ample cushioning while conforming to your shape and alleviating your pressure points. Whether you sleep hot, are prone to night sweats, or like to switch between different positions, this pillow won't disappoint.
Price at time of publish: $99
Sizes: Standard, queen, king | Fill Material: Poly fiber | Shell Material: Sateen cotton | Care: Machine-wash cold, tumble-dry low
Read Next: The 11 Best Cooling Sheets of 2023, Tested and Reviewed
Final Verdict
Our top choice is the Coop Home Goods Eden Pillow, which earned a 4.8 overall score on account of its adjustable gel-infused cooling fill and luxuriously thick and stretchy shell. However, if you're looking for something more wallet-friendly, the HIMOON Bed Pillow is an excellent choice, and comes in a set of two.
Rachel Marek
How We Tested
We researched the best and highest rated cooling pillows on the market. Then, we put our top picks to the test at The Lab in Des Moines, Iowa. Our product testers evaluated each option's quality, durability, comfort, cooling properties, and overall value. Our long-term testers then took each of our original 28 picks home to sleep on them, wash them, and evaluate them for weeks. We combined our writer's research with our tester's insights to compile this list.
What to Look for in a Cooling Pillow
Material
In addition to the cooling technology within the fill of the pillow, you'll want to pay special attention to the materials used in the outer covering. There are a couple of materials to source for cooling properties. "The best cooling pillows are usually made out of gel or latex and feature a cotton or bamboo fabric cover," says Foley. While she notes that memory foam can trap heat, shredded options are usually a bit more breathable as they allow for more airflow. Additionally, Foley explains that pillows infused with cooling materials, such as gel, copper, or graphite, can provide a temperature-regulating effect, like our top pick from Coop Home.
Real goose or duck down and vegan-friendly down-alternative fill fibers also tend to be relatively breathable. For those with allergies or ones who prefer a vegan lifestyle, the Slumber Cloud down alternative is meant to mimic the natural material.
Foley notes the cover also helps keep you cool, so look for lightweight (preferably natural) bedding fabrics with relatively low thread counts to ensure adequate airflow. A great cover also contributes to the pillow's softness. For example, our tester loved the feel of Cozy Earth's silk pillow.
Cooling Technology
Specific cooling technology includes temperature-regulating gel beads, heat-absorbing liners, moisture-wicking fabrics, or a proprietary material with a unique ability to keep you at a comfortable temp throughout the night.
Some brands use fancier language than others, but our tester was definitely impressed with Slumber Cloud's NASA-approved technology.
Care Instructions
It's important to check the care requirements before buying any type of bedding or insert. Some cooling pillows can be safely laundered in a standard washing machine and tumble-dried in a dryer. Some come with removable, machine-washable covers, and others are meant to be spot-cleaned only. When in doubt, follow the brand's recommended cleaning instructions.
Luckily, most brands include detailed instructions on their website for the best results. Some, like The Pillow from Marlow, are completely non-machine washable, which contributed to our tester's ratings.
If you get night sweats or just prefer cleaning your pillow on a regular basis, you may want to find one that can easily be tossed in the washer and drier for added convenience.
Support
While staying cool is the primary goal, you’ll also want to choose a pillow that offers the right amount of support for your sleep position. For example, according to Foley, side sleepers need a thicker pillow that supports the head and neck, while back sleepers need a lower pillow that supports the head, neck, and shoulders.
You'll want to not only pay attention to the loft of the pillow upon arrival but whether or not the pillow will maintain its support throughout consistent, long-term use. For many pillows, you'll likely have to fluff them rather regularly, but thicker and denser pillows will likely keep their shape without much upkeep.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are cooling pillows good for?
Cooling pillows can be a great purchase for just about everyone, but especially for those who tend to overheat while sleeping or suffer from night sweats. Your sleep quality can be highly affected by temperature, and sleeping in a room that's too hot or cold can make it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep. Cooling pillows can help your body remain at a comfortable temperature by pulling heat away from your body as you sleep.
How do cooling pillows work?
Cooling pillows work by using materials that enable airflow and draw heat away from your body. While the cooling technology of each pillow can vary from brand to brand, they all have materials and fillings that can be temperature-regulating and moisture-wicking.
What type of pillowcase should you use with cooling pillows?
To get the most out of a cooling pillow, choose a pillowcase that’s moisture-wicking and temperature-regulating. Some good options include bamboo, cotton, silk, and satin.
Are cooling pillows safe?
To ensure the safety of your cooling pillows, look for certifications from CertiPUR-US or OEKO-Tex. These organizations certify that foam products infused with gel, copper, or graphite are safe and free of harmful chemicals.
Why Trust The Spruce?
Theresa Holland is a freelance commerce writer specializing in textiles and sleep products. She analyzed first-hand reviews from our home testers and referenced several peer-reviewed articles on the breathability and moisture-wicking properties of various fabrics, foams, and fill fibers. All of Theresa's final picks are well-designed, easy to care for, effective in regulating body temperature, and ultimately a good value. Theresa has personally tested bedding products from many brands on this list, including Coop Home Goods, Marlow, Tuft & Needle, Saatva, and The Company Store. But as a side sleeper, her go-to is the Pillow Cube.
Logan Foley, managing editor at SleepFoundation.org provided additional information for this story, including insight into materials and cooling technologies. Helen Sullivan, APR, Fellow PRSA and Communications Counsel of the CertiPUR-US program, provided guidance on the toxicity regulations of cooling pillows.
What Is Spruce Approved?
Here at The Spruce we want to ensure we fully stand behind every product we recommend, and that when we say something is the best, we mean it. You might have noticed The Spruce Approved badge next to the products on this list. Every product with this badge has been rigorously tested in person and carefully selected by our expert team of lab testers and editors. In most cases, we buy all these products ourselves, though occasionally we get samples provided to us directly by companies. No matter how we procure products, they all go through the same tests and must meet the same strict criteria to make the best-of cut. We also pride ourselves on transparency and will always let you know if we received a product for free.
