Organic Pillows: How to Choose One that Meets Your Needs

While many have heard of organic foods, you may not realize that other everyday products come in organic forms as well. Organic pillows are made from organic materials like cotton, latex, and wool. Like other organic products, they help to protect the environment and support human health. In this article, we'll dive into the pros and cons of organic pillows and help you pick the right one for your needs.

What is an organic pillow?

As the name suggests, organic pillows are pillows crafted from organic materials. Typically, organic pillows are filled with all-natural materials like latex, cotton, wool, kapok fibers, or buckwheat hulls. To be considered 100% organic, they should also have an organic cover.

Organic products are cultivated and processed using no synthetic fertilizers or pesticides. According to a survey by the Organic Trade Association, organic sales have more than doubled in the last ten years in the United States.

One of the main reasons organic products are so popular is that they bring together two important concerns: promoting human health and being environmentally friendly.

Benefits of sleeping with an organic pillow

Sleeping with an organic pillow can be highly beneficial, especially for those who want to enjoy a more restful sleep without worrying about harming the environment. Some of the main pros of organic pillows include:

• Environmentally friendly. Organic pillows are seen as a greener choice compared to regular pillows. That’s because they’re made from natural materials grown sustainably without the use of harmful chemicals. Organic products are often grown using techniques that help conserve water and valuable resources.
• Ethical production. Since organic pillows are made without harsh chemicals, they’re safer for farm workers and everyone involved in the production process.
• Skin friendly. Organic pillows are made from natural materials like cotton, latex, and wool. Compared to regular pillows, which usually incorporate synthetic materials like polyester, organic pillows are gentler on the skin and less likely to cause irritation.
• Hypoallergenic. Most organic materials naturally repel dust mites and mildew. Studies show that synthetic bedding, like pillows and comforters, tends to hoard more dust mite allergens than feather-based alternatives.
• Breathable. Organic pillows are made from breathable materials, allowing for better airflow than regular pillows. This helps your body stay cool and release sweat, keeping you comfortable throughout the night.
• Durable. How long a pillow lasts depends on various factors, including the material’s quality and how you take care of it. Organic materials in particular are known for their durability and can stand up to regular use, often lasting for several years.

Cons of organic pillows

While organic pillows have many benefits, they might not be the perfect fit for everyone. Different people have different needs and preferences when it comes to pillows. Organic pillows can also have their drawbacks.

Oerganic pillows can be expensive. That's because organic materials must meet rigorous regulations and obtain certifications, which adds to their production expenses. These additional costs often translate into a higher price tag for the consumer.

Another downside of organic pillows is that you might have a harder time finding them in local stores. Additionally, they often come in fewer styles compared to conventional pillows.

Different types of organic pillows

Organic pillows are made entirely from organic materials, including the cover and the filling. The most common materials you'll find in organic pillows are:

• Cotton. Organic cotton is breathable, making it an ideal choice for those who tend to get hot while sleeping. Organic cotton production uses less water than regular cotton. Plus, it skips the use of dyes and bleach.
• Latex. Natural latex is typically sourced from the milky white liquid of the rubber tree and processed using two methods: Talalay or Dunlop. Of the two, Dunlop is generally considered the more environmentally sustainable option. If you prefer pillows that offer extra support and a moderate level of contouring, you'll like this type of pillow.
• Wool. Wool is a remarkable material that can be sourced from animals like goats, sheep, and lambs. Its wavy fibers provide a springy and supportive feel for pillows. They also absorb moisture effectively, keeping you warm in the winter and cool in the summer. While ethical concerns can arise in wool production, there are organizations dedicated to promoting proper animal welfare during the shearing process.
• Silk. Almost everyone loves the luxurious feel of silk. This naturally occurring material comes from silkworms and can be used in the filling and cover of high-end pillows.
• Responsible down. Goose and duck feathers make for incredibly soft pillow stuffing. However, there are ethical issues with how down is obtained, often involving the live plucking of birds. Responsible down are produced under stricter rules to ensure these animals are treated humanely. This involves rules against live plucking, force-feeding, and other brutal practices.
• Buckwheat hulls. Pillows filled with the outer hulls of buckwheat seeds are naturally firm. Depending on the level of support you want, you can add or remove hulls. They’re also breathable as the small, rigid hulls allow ample airflow. Some people may find buckwheat pillows a bit too firm and noisy. Plus, they can be pricey and heavy to move around at night.
• Kapok fibers. Kapok fibers have that airy, down-like feel, but they're sourced from the kapok tree. Kapok is considered a more sustainable option than other crops because it needs minimal irrigation.

What to consider when buying an organic pillow

There’s a wide variety of organic pillows on the market. Each material has its benefits. Despite what you may hear, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution for organic pillows. You’ll have to find one that best suits your needs and lifestyle. The ideal characteristics may vary with body type and preferred sleep position. Here are a few factors you should keep in mind when shopping for an organic pillow:

• Loft. Loft refers to the pillow’s height or thickness. Higher pillows work better if you’re a side sleeper because they support your shoulder height. But if you prefer sleeping on your stomach, a flatter pillow would be best to avoid twisting of the neck. If you’re unsure what loft is best for you, choose a pillow with adjustable fill.
• Support. The ideal pillow should keep your head and neck aligned with your spine. Stay away from pillows that are too soft, thin, or thick, as they won't give you the proper support and might make you uncomfortable.
• Firmness level. A soft pillow is a suitable choice for stomach sleepers as it can be shaped to prevent the spine from arching backward. On the other hand, if you're a side sleeper, you might lean towards a firm pillow. Firm pillows maintain their shape and provide a stable foundation to ensure your spine remains in a neutral alignment while you sleep.
• Pressure relief. Pillows can reduce pressure at contact points and prevent pressure build-up in unsupported areas. Some of the best materials that play this role include plush latex, kapok fibers, and cotton.
• Quality of materials. An organic label doesn’t guarantee a pillow’s quality. Ensure the pillow is made from 100% organic materials and not blended with other materials. It is essential to understand the pillow’s composition and whether it aligns with your needs.
• Temperature regulation. Some materials used in organic pillows have properties that help prevent heat build-up and keep a cooler sleeping surface at night. Such materials include latex, buckwheat, kapok, cotton, and wool.
• Organic certification. When buying an organic pillow, verify if it has certification. Certification from a reputable third-party organization can give you confidence that the product is genuinely organic.

Organic pillows are an excellent choice for people prioritizing sustainability and social responsibility. They are also great for those seeking a high-quality product. However, organic pillows can cost more and may not suit all pockets, although they may last longer than synthetic pillows. Choosing an organic pillow can be a bit overwhelming given all the options out there. Just go for the one that best matches your sleep preferences and needs.