Sleep can be elusive for those who run on the warmer side through the night. Hot sleepers know the struggle of flipping the pillow to find a cool spot, often disrupting their sleep cycle. This is where cooling pillows come into play. These innovative sleep accessories are designed to maintain a cooler temperature throughout the night, providing comfort and improving sleep quality.
Understanding Cooling Pillows
Cooling pillows are specially designed to regulate temperature and keep you cool as you sleep. They come in various types, featuring different materials and technologies aimed at dissipating heat. Some use gel-infused memory foam or latex, while others may have a phase change material (PCM) layer.
Types of Cooling Pillows
- Gel-Infused Pillows: These pillows have a cooling gel that helps draw heat away from the body.
- Breathable Pillows: Made with materials that promote airflow, such as bamboo or microfiber, these pillows prevent heat retention.
- Water Pillows: Pillows that you can fill with water typically offer customizable support and can stay cool throughout the night.
- Phase Change Material Pillows: PCMs are substances that absorb and release heat to maintain a constant temperature.
Choosing the Best Cooling Pillow for Hot Sleepers
Selecting the best cooling pillow depends on personal preference, sleeping position, and specific needs for comfort and support. Here are some factors to consider.
Material
Consider the material which directly corresponds with cooling properties. Memory foam is praised for comfort but notorious for heat retention, so a gel-infused or PCM memory foam would be a cooler alternative.
Loft and Firmness
The height (loft) and firmness may affect airflow around your head and neck. A loftier, less dense pillow might offer better breathability.
Hypoallergenic Properties
For allergy sufferers, choosing a pillow that is hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites and mold will improve sleep quality.
Cover
A cooling pillow with a removable and washable cover ensures that the pillow stays clean and hygienic over time.
Top Picks for Cooling Pillows
Researching pillows can be daunting, but we’ve compiled a list of top-performing cooling pillows that have received accolades from both consumers and sleep experts. Here are some of the best on the market.
Coop Home Goods – Eden Adjustable Pillow
Filled with a mix of cooling gel-infused memory foam and microfiber, this pillow is adjustable, allowing you to add or remove filling to suit your comfort.
TEMPUR-Cloud Breeze Dual Cooling Pillow
This pillow from Tempur-Pedic features a cooling gel layer on both sides, perfect for sleepers who enjoy a firmer feel with the reputed Tempur material.
The Purple Pillow
Purple’s innovative grid design offers no-compromise support and is made with a hyper-elastic polymer that stays cool throughout the night.
GhostPillow – Memory Foam
The GhostPillow has a phase change material layer to regulate temperature and is made with aerated gel memory foam for extra cooling.
Classic Brands Reversible Cool Gel and Memory Foam Pillow
With a cool gel pad on one side and memory foam on the other, this reversible pillow lets you choose your sleeping experience.
Caring for Your Cooling Pillow
To keep your cooling pillow effective, you should take proper care of it. Most will come with specific instructions from the manufacturer. Generally, you should consider the following:
- Use a pillow protector to shield it from body oils and sweat.
- Spot clean your pillow if it gets dirty, but make sure to check if the material is water-safe.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals that may break down the cooling materials or cover fabric.
- Replace your pillow every 18 to 36 months, as suggested for most pillows to maintain hygiene and performance.
Common Questions About Cooling Pillows
Do cooling pillows really work?
Yes, many users find that cooling pillows help reduce night sweats and keep them comfortable. However, their effectiveness can vary based on the type of cooling pillow and the individual’s sleep environment.
Top 5 Pillows Recommended By GoodSleepHub.com
Beckham Hotel Collection Bed Pillows Standard / Queen Size Set of 2 - Original Down Alternative Pillow for Sleeping - Bedding fo...
(as of September 7, 2024 23:30 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Utopia Bedding Bed Pillows for Sleeping Queen Size (White), Set of 2, Cooling Hotel Quality, Gusseted Pillow for Back, Stomach o...
14% Off (as of September 7, 2024 20:46 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Coop Home Goods Eden Bed Pillow Queen Size for Sleeping on Back, Stomach and Side Sleeper- Medium Soft Memory Foam Cooling Gel -...
20% Off (as of September 7, 2024 20:46 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
QUTOOL Cooling Pillows for Sleeping 2 Pack, Shredded Memory Foam Bed Pillows Queen Size Set of 2, Gel Pillow for Hot Sleepers Co...
16% Off (as of September 7, 2024 23:30 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
HIMOON Bed Pillows for Sleeping 2 Pack,Standard Size Cooling Pillows Set of 2,Top-end Microfiber Cover for Side Stomach Back Sle...
33% Off (as of September 7, 2024 23:30 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Can I use a pillowcase with my cooling pillow?
Yes, but it’s best to use a breathable fabric like bamboo or cotton to maintain the pillow’s cooling properties.
Are there cooling pillows suitable for side sleepers?
Definitely. Side sleepers need a pillow with higher loft for alignment, and many cooling pillows cater to this need. Look for adjustable or ergonomically shaped cooling pillows.
Finishing Thoughts
For hot sleepers, a cooling pillow isn’t merely a comfort product, it’s a necessity for quality rest. By considering your personal preferences, sleep position, and desired pillow material, you can find a cooling pillow that helps you stay comfortable and cool throughout the night. While choosing your pillow is a matter of personal need, any of the selections on our list may be a great start to achieving cooler, more comfortable sleep. Remember to take proper care of your pillow, and sweet dreams are sure to follow.
