Introduction to the Importance of Cooling Pillows for Summer
As summer approaches, many of us dread the hot, sleepless nights that come with it. But what if there was a way to stay cool and comfortable all night long? Enter cooling pillows – the perfect solution for those sweaty summer nights.
Understanding the Science Behind Cooling Pillows
When we sleep, our body temperature naturally decreases. This drop in temperature signals the brain that it’s time for bed. But, when the surrounding temperature is too high, it interferes with this natural process, making it harder to fall asleep or maintain deep sleep. This is where cooling pillows step in.
A cooling pillow, as the name suggests, is designed to keep your head and neck cool as you sleep. It works by using certain materials, like gel-infused memory foam, that absorb, store, and then dissipate heat. Some pillows also use natural materials like bamboo or cotton, known for their breathability and moisture-wicking properties. The goal is to prevent heat accumulation and promote air circulation, thereby helping you maintain a comfortable temperature throughout the night.
Benefits of Using Cooling Pillows During Summer
Apart from helping you sleep comfortably during the hot summer months, cooling pillows offer several other benefits:
- Improved Sleep Quality: A cooler head promotes a lower body temperature, signaling your brain that it’s time for sleep. This can help you fall asleep faster and enjoy more restorative, deep sleep.
- Reduced Sweating: No one likes waking up in the middle of the night drenched in sweat. With a cooling pillow, you can keep the sweat at bay and your pillowcase dry.
- Aids in Reducing Migraines: For those prone to migraines, heat can often be a trigger. By maintaining a cooler temperature, cooling pillows may help reduce the frequency and intensity of migraines.
- Comfort for Skin Conditions: Certain skin conditions like eczema can flare up due to heat and sweating. Cooling pillows can provide a more comfortable sleep environment for people dealing with such issues.
A Buying Guide for Choosing the Best Cooling Pillow
Choosing the right cooling pillow involves considering several factors:
- Material: Look for materials known for their cooling properties, like gel-infused memory foam or latex. Bamboo, cotton, or other breathable fabrics are good choices for pillow covers.
- Loft: The loft or height of the pillow should match your sleeping position to ensure proper spinal alignment.
- Comfort and Firmness: These depend on personal preference. Some people prefer a firmer pillow for support, while others like a softer one for comfort.
- Care Instructions: Consider how easy it is to clean and care for the pillow. A removable and machine-washable cover is always a plus.
- Budget: Cooling pillows can range from affordable to premium. Decide on a budget based on your needs and preferences.
Detailed Review of the Best 16 Cooling Pillows for Summer
1. Sealy DuoChill Cooling Memory Foam Pillow
The Sealy DuoChill Cooling Memory Foam Pillow is an exceptional product, known for revolutionizing sleeping comfort. It combines the adjustability of memory foam with Sealy’s cutting-edge DuoChill cooling technology, thereby providing the perfect balance of support and coolness.
This pillow’s unique selling point is its dual-sided cooling gel. Catering to all types of sleepers, regardless of whether they prefer sleeping on their stomach, side, or back, this cooling gel ensures that the pillow remains fresh throughout the night, effectively addressing the issue of overheating.
Complementing the gel technology, the pillow comes with a cover made from a superior-quality breathable knit fabric. This material amplifies the cooling effect while also keeping the pillow hygienic. As it can be removed and washed, the cover is incredibly easy to maintain and clean.
Users frequently mention the pillow’s ability to retain its shape over time. Unlike many pillows that flatten with use, the Sealy DuoChill Pillow maintains its form even after prolonged usage. This feature is critical for preventing neck or back pains that could potentially develop due to inadequate support.
Pros
- Outstanding cooling technology
- Adjustable memory foam
- Suitable for all types of sleepers
Cons
- Some users find it too firm
- Higher price point compared to other brands on the market
2. NTCOCO Removable Bamboo Cooling Hypoallergenic Sleep Pillow for Back and Side Sleeper
The NTCOCO Removable Bamboo Cooling Hypoallergenic Sleep Pillow is a standout in the market for cooling pillows. Designed specifically for back and side sleepers, it provides the perfect combination of comfort and cooling.
Made with a unique blend of bamboo-derived rayon and shredded memory foam, the pillow effortlessly adapts to the sleeper’s shape, providing a comfortable and supportive sleeping surface. What truly sets this pillow apart is the moisture-wicking property of the bamboo rayon fabric, which actively aids in maintaining a dry and cool pillow surface all night long.
The NTCOCO pillow is also an excellent choice for allergy sufferers. Its hypoallergenic properties help to prevent the buildup of allergens such as dust mites and mold, ensuring a cleaner and healthier sleeping environment. Furthermore, the pillow’s cover is easily removable and machine washable, making maintenance a breeze.
The pillow’s durability and shape retention have received much praise from users. Despite extended use, it holds its shape and continues to provide the same level of support and cooling, making it a sound long-term investment.
Pros
- Cooling properties of bamboo rayon fabric
- Shredded memory foam for adaptive support
- Hypoallergenic
Cons
- Some users find it too soft
- Slightly higher price point
3. Pharmedoc Cooling Pillow Memory Foam Pillows
The Pharmedoc Cooling Pillow is another highly-rated product that provides a cooler and more comfortable sleeping experience. It’s a great choice for those who are looking for a cooling pillow with the additional benefit of orthopedic support.
The pillow is made of high-quality memory foam and features a proprietary cooling gel technology on one side. This gel layer effectively dissipates heat, helping to maintain a cool pillow surface throughout the night.
Designed with an ergonomic shape, the Pharmedoc Cooling Pillow aims to provide optimal spinal alignment. This not only ensures a comfortable sleeping posture but can also help alleviate common sleep-related issues such as neck and shoulder pain.
One of the key features of the Pharmedoc Cooling Pillow is its removable, machine-washable cover. The cover is made of a special blend of spandex and polyester, known for its breathability and moisture-wicking abilities.
Users often appreciate the cooling gel technology and the ergonomic design of the pillow, citing improved sleep quality and reduced neck discomfort. However, some users have noted that the pillow may be a bit firm for their preference.
Pros
- Cooling gel technology
- Ergonomic design for spinal alignment
- Breathable, machine-washable cover
Cons
- Some users find it too firm
- May not be suitable for stomach sleepers
4. Comfyt Cervical Pillow – Cooling Orthopedic Memory Foam Pillow
The Comfyt Cervical Pillow provides an optimal solution for individuals seeking cooling comfort along with orthopedic benefits. Crafted with high-quality memory foam, this pillow provides a soft yet supportive surface that adapts to the shape of your head and neck, offering ideal pressure distribution.
One side of the pillow features a unique cooling gel pad. This cooling technology aids in maintaining a consistently cool temperature throughout the night, helping you achieve a more peaceful and comfortable sleep. Users report that the cooling effect is quite pronounced and it significantly reduces overheating during the night.
The pillow’s ergonomic design, which includes a special contour shape, aims to promote optimal spinal alignment. This can be particularly beneficial for back and side sleepers, helping to alleviate common issues like neck pain, shoulder discomfort, and sleep-related headaches.
The Comfyt Cervical Pillow comes with a soft, breathable cover that can be easily removed and machine washed, allowing for easy maintenance and long-term use. Despite these advantages, some users have reported that the pillow’s height might not be comfortable for all, particularly for stomach sleepers.
Pros
- Cooling gel pad for optimal temperature control
- Orthopedic design supports neck and spine
- Soft, washable, and breathable cover
Cons
- Height might not be suitable for all, particularly stomach sleepers
- Some users have reported it being too firm
5. WishSmile Body Bamboo Cooling Pillowcases
The WishSmile Body Bamboo Cooling Pillowcases are designed to provide cooling relief during the hot summer months. These pillowcases are made from 100% natural bamboo-derived rayon fabric which is known for its exceptional breathability and moisture-wicking properties.
A key feature of the WishSmile pillowcases is their cool to the touch feel. The bamboo fabric naturally dissipates heat, allowing the surface of the pillowcase to stay cool, regardless of the room temperature. Users have reported a significant improvement in their sleep quality due to the cooling effect of these pillowcases, especially during warmer nights.
These pillowcases are hypoallergenic and resist mites and allergens, making them a great choice for people with allergies. Moreover, the fabric’s soft and silky feel offers a luxurious touch, adding to the overall sleep experience.
The WishSmile Bamboo Cooling Pillowcases come in a set of two and are available in a variety of colors to match any bedroom decor. While these pillowcases are generally well-received, some users have noted that they wrinkle easily and may require frequent ironing.
Pros
- Made of 100% bamboo-derived rayon fabric for cooling comfort
- Hypoallergenic and resistant to mites and allergens
- Soft and silky texture
Cons
- Tend to wrinkle easily
- May require frequent ironing for optimal appearance
6. Vaverto Gel Memory Foam Pillow
The Vaverto Gel Memory Foam Pillow is a popular choice among those who suffer from sleep issues like insomnia, snoring, neck, and back pain. Designed with an innovative cooling gel pad, this pillow ensures a comfortable sleep experience throughout the night.
The unique gel pad not only provides excellent cooling effects but also gives optimum support to the neck and head, thereby reducing pressure points. The high-density memory foam used in this pillow effectively contours to the shape of your head and neck, providing exceptional support and comfort.
The Vaverto Gel Memory Foam Pillow also comes with a washable bamboo cover that’s hypoallergenic and dust mite resistant, ensuring a safe and healthy sleeping environment. The breathable cover, combined with the cooling gel, allows for excellent ventilation, keeping you cool throughout the night.
Though most users have reported a significant improvement in their sleep quality, some have noted that the pillow might be too firm for those who prefer a softer pillow.
Pros
- Cooling gel pad provides excellent cooling effects
- High-density memory foam for great support and comfort
- Comes with a washable, hypoallergenic bamboo cover
Cons
- Might be too firm for some users’ preference
- The cooling effect might decrease over time
7. UUTOUU Contour Memory Foam Pillow
The UUTOUU Contour Memory Foam Pillow offers a revolutionary cooling experience, designed to keep sleepers cool and comfortable throughout the night. The pillow incorporates a cooling gel layer that effectively draws away heat from your body, helping you maintain a refreshing sleep environment.
Constructed with high-quality memory foam, the UUTOUU Contour Pillow contours perfectly to the unique shape of your head, neck, and shoulders. This ergonomic design provides superior support and pressure relief, making it an excellent choice for side, back, and stomach sleepers. Moreover, the memory foam is CertiPUR-US certified, ensuring it is free of harmful substances.
A standout feature of this pillow is its ventilated design, which boosts the pillow’s breathability and promotes air circulation. It comes with a washable and hypoallergenic bamboo cover that further enhances its cooling and breathable properties.
Despite its many merits, some customers have reported that the pillow might be too high for some, particularly those who are not accustomed to contour pillows.
Pros
- Cooling gel layer for superior temperature regulation
- High-quality, CertiPUR-US certified memory foam provides excellent support
- Ventilated design for improved breathability
Cons
- May be too high for some users
- Takes time to adjust to the contour design
8. KHHMNB Side Sleeper Pillow for Neck and Shoulder Pain
The KHHMNB Side Sleeper Pillow is specifically designed to offer superior comfort and support for side sleepers. This pillow stands out for its ergonomic design, helping to align the head, neck, and spine, reducing discomfort and promoting a restful night’s sleep.
The pillow’s filling is composed of 100% premium shredded memory foam that’s both soft and supportive. It responds to body heat and molds to your shape, ensuring personalized comfort throughout the night.
The KHHMNB pillow comes with a unique dual fabric cover. One side is made of ice silk material for a cool sleeping surface during warmer nights, while the other side is made of bamboo fiber for a cozy and warm feeling during colder seasons.
Although the KHHMNB pillow provides numerous benefits, a few users have mentioned that it might be a bit firm for some people, especially those who prefer a softer pillow. Moreover, it may take a few days to get used to the pillow’s unique design and firmness level.
Pros
- Ergonomic design to cater to side sleepers
- Dual fabric cover for all-season comfort
- Shredded memory foam filling for personalized comfort
Cons
- Might be too firm for some users
- Takes time to adjust to the pillow’s unique design
9. Utopia Bedding Bed Pillows for Sleeping
Utopia Bedding Bed Pillows are an excellent choice for individuals seeking a hotel-quality sleeping experience. These pillows are filled with plush hollow fiber fill which maintains its shape and fluffiness even after continued use, giving you a luxurious feeling every time you lay your head on them.
One of the significant attributes of these pillows is their breathable cotton covers that help to keep you cool throughout the night. This cooling effect combined with the soft and supportive filling makes for a comfortable and restful night’s sleep.
These pillows are designed to cater to all types of sleepers – whether you are a back, side, or stomach sleeper, the medium-firm feel provides adequate support to your head, neck, and shoulders, promoting proper spinal alignment and reducing the chances of waking up with aches and pains.
However, some users have reported that the pillows can be a bit too fluffy initially, requiring some time to adjust to the desired comfort level. Additionally, they might not be as cooling as some other specialized cooling pillows on the market.
Pros
- Hotel-quality experience
- Breathable cotton covers for cooling effect
- Adequate support for all types of sleepers
Cons
- Initially too fluffy for some users
- Not as cooling as other specialized cooling pillows
10. Coop Home Goods Eden Bed Pillow Queen
The Coop Home Goods Eden Bed Pillow is another excellent option for those looking for a cooling pillow for summer nights. Designed with a blend of microfiber and gel-infused memory foam fill, it delivers a unique balance of softness and support that ensures a comfortable night’s sleep.
The standout feature of this pillow is the adjustable fill. The pillow comes with an extra bag of fill, allowing you to customize the loft and firmness to suit your unique sleeping preferences. This feature, coupled with the pillow’s cross-cut design, promotes better airflow and prevents clumping.
Moreover, the pillow’s cover is made from a proprietary Lulltra fabric, a blend of bamboo-derived viscose rayon and polyester. This material is naturally cooling, hypoallergenic, and dust mite resistant, ensuring you not only sleep cooler but also healthier.
On the downside, some users might find the pillow’s initial off-gassing smell off-putting. However, this smell usually dissipates after a few days of airing out.
Pros
- Adjustable fill for custom loft and firmness
- Cooling, hypoallergenic, and dust mite resistant cover
- Balanced softness and support
Cons
- May have an initial off-gassing smell
11. Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Cloud Breeze Dual Cooling Pillow
The Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Cloud Breeze Dual Cooling Pillow is a perfect addition to a summer bedroom. Crafted with Tempur-Pedic’s proprietary TEMPUR material, this pillow offers adaptive support, contouring to the head and neck to relieve pressure and ensure maximum comfort.
One of the unique features of this pillow is its dual-sided cooling gel design. The two gel pads on either side of the pillow help maintain a consistently cool sleeping surface throughout the night, ensuring that you can enjoy uninterrupted, comfortable sleep.
In addition to its cooling abilities, the TEMPUR material is also highly durable. It maintains its shape over time, providing consistent support without the need for constant fluffing or readjusting. The removable, washable cover adds to the overall convenience, allowing for easy care and maintenance.
However, the pillow’s higher price point may be a drawback for some buyers. It’s a premium product, and its cost reflects this. The pillow’s firmness may also not suit all sleepers, particularly those who prefer a softer pillow.
Pros
- Dual-sided cooling gel for consistent cooling
- Durable, adaptive TEMPUR material
- Washable cover
Cons
- Higher price point
- Might be too firm for some sleepers
12. Snuggle-Pedic Shredded Memory Foam Pillow – The Original Cool Pillows for Side/Stomach/Back Sleepers
The Snuggle-Pedic Shredded Memory Foam Pillow is another top contender in the cooling pillow market. It is specifically designed to cater to all types of sleepers, be it side, stomach, or back sleepers, making it a versatile choice.
The Snuggle-Pedic pillow is filled with a proprietary blend of shredded memory foam that can be adjusted for custom comfort. This foam blend is breathable, promoting airflow and preventing the build-up of heat to keep the sleeping surface cool.
One significant feature of the Snuggle-Pedic pillow is its Kool-Flow technology. This unique micro-vented bamboo cover ensures excellent ventilation, further enhancing the cooling effect of the pillow. It’s also hypoallergenic and dust mite resistant, making it ideal for allergy sufferers.
Despite its many positives, there are a few points to consider. Some users may find the process of adjusting the fill a bit cumbersome. Plus, the pillow’s initial off-gassing smell may be a turn-off for some users, although it typically dissipates after a few days.
Pros
- Shredded memory foam fill for adjustable comfort
- Kool-Flow technology for enhanced cooling
- Hypoallergenic and dust mite resistant
Cons
- Adjusting the fill may be cumbersome
- Initial off-gassing smell
13. Purple Harmony Pillow – No Pressure Support/Stays Cool/Good Housekeeping Award Winning Pillow
The Purple Harmony Pillow is an innovative cooling pillow that brings together proprietary Purple Grid Hex technology with hypoallergenic Talalay Latex. This pillow is recognized for its excellent temperature regulation and pressure relief, making it an excellent choice for hot sleepers seeking comfort and support.
The Purple Grid Hex technology used in the design of the pillow’s core provides for excellent air circulation, enabling it to stay cool throughout the night. Moreover, the responsive Talalay latex core of the pillow provides a balance of softness and support that adapts to your head and neck.
The cover of the Purple Harmony pillow is made of a breathable, moisture-wicking mesh that further aids in keeping you cool while you sleep. It’s also machine washable, adding to the ease of care.
However, the Purple Harmony Pillow may not be everyone’s cup of tea. Its higher price point can be a drawback for some, and the firmness level, which is on the medium side, may not be suitable for those who prefer a very soft or very firm pillow.
Pros
- Proprietary Purple Grid Hex technology for excellent air circulation
- Responsive Talalay latex core provides softness and support
- Breathable, moisture-wicking cover that’s machine washable
Cons
- Higher price point
- Medium firmness may not suit everyone
14. Xtreme Comforts Pillows for Sleeping – Removable Cooling Zipper Cover
Xtreme Comforts Pillows for Sleeping is a worthy mention in the list of cooling pillows for hot summer nights. Its unique design includes a shredded memory foam interior that allows for excellent airflow and a bamboo cover that is breathable and helps wick away moisture, offering a cool surface to sleep on.
The adjustable fill of this pillow means that you can tailor it to your desired height and firmness by simply adding or removing foam, making it suitable for all types of sleepers – back, side, and stomach. It’s also hypoallergenic and dust mite resistant, an added advantage for sensitive sleepers.
The Xtreme Comforts Pillow is machine washable, providing convenience and promoting hygienic sleeping conditions. It has been designed to maintain its shape and firmness over time, making it a long-lasting investment.
However, some users have reported an initial off-gassing smell upon opening the product, which may be off-putting to some, although this smell usually dissipates after a few days. Additionally, adjusting the fill to find the perfect level of comfort might take some time and experimenting.
Pros
- Adjustable shredded memory foam fill for personalized comfort
- Breathable bamboo cover helps in heat dissipation
- Hypoallergenic and dust mite resistant
Cons
- Initial off-gassing smell
- Takes time to adjust to the perfect level of comfort
15. Beckham Hotel Collection Bed Pillows – Alternative Bedding Gel Cooling Pillow for Back/Stomach/Side Sleepers
The Beckham Hotel Collection Bed Pillows are not just pillows, they are the epitome of luxury coupled with comfort and cooling technology. Designed with a gel-filled fiber that ensures the utmost comfort, these pillows also offer exceptional cooling properties, ideal for hot sleepers during the summer nights.
What stands out about these pillows is their high-quality construction. They are made with super plush gel fiber that guarantees optimum comfort. Also, they are allergen and chemical-free and resistant to mold, dust mites, and mildew, ensuring they are entirely safe for individuals with allergies or asthma.
The no-shift construction means the pillow maintains its shape and provides consistent support for your neck and head, regardless of your sleeping position. Furthermore, they are machine-washable, allowing for easy maintenance and freshness.
Despite their numerous benefits, these pillows may be too soft for some users who prefer a firmer support. Plus, the gel-filled fiber may not be as cool as expected for some hot sleepers.
Pros
- Super plush gel fiber for comfort
- Allergen and chemical-free
- No-shift construction maintains shape and support
Cons
- May be too soft for those who prefer firm support
- Cooling effect might not be sufficient for some
16. SUPA MODERN Cooling Bed Pillows for Sleeping – Shredded Memory Foam Pillows Adjustable Cool BAMBOO Pillow
The SUPA MODERN Cooling Bed Pillows stand out for their adjustable and customizability features. Made from shredded memory foam, these pillows are designed to cater to the unique needs and preferences of each sleeper. What makes them more appealing is their cooling bamboo pillow cover, which offers excellent breathability and temperature control, making it an excellent choice for summer.
The use of shredded memory foam allows users to add or remove filling to achieve the desired level of firmness and loft. This attribute makes the pillow suitable for back, stomach, and side sleepers alike. Moreover, the bamboo cover is not just cooling but also hypoallergenic and dust-mite resistant, enhancing the pillow’s overall safety and hygiene.
It’s worth noting that these pillows are CertiPUR-US certified, meaning they are free from harmful chemicals and safe for use. The pillow also comes with a washable cover, making it easy to clean and maintain.
However, it’s essential to mention that some users have reported the pillow being too firm, even when some of the shredded memory foam is removed. Additionally, the cooling feature might not be sufficient for people who sweat excessively during sleep.
Pros
- Adjustable shredded memory foam filling
- Cooling, hypoallergenic bamboo cover
- CertiPUR-US certified for safety
- Comes with a washable cover
Cons
- Can be too firm for some, even with reduced filling
- Cooling feature might not be sufficient for extreme hot sleepers
Conclusion: Sleep Cool, Sleep Well
Investing in a good cooling pillow can make a significant difference in your sleep quality, especially during the hot summer months. A cooler, more comfortable night’s sleep could also lead to better health and wellbeing overall. Why sweat your nights away when you could be sleeping comfortably cool?
FAQs
Cooling pillows work by using materials that either absorb and dissipate heat or promote airflow. Examples include gel-infused memory foam, latex, or breathable fabrics like bamboo or cotton.
While they’re not a cure, cooling pillows can provide comfort and improved sleep for people with certain conditions. These include night sweats, migraines, and certain skin conditions.
If you often find yourself waking up hot and sweaty, or if you live in a warm climate, a cooling pillow can be a worthwhile investment for a more comfortable sleep.
It depends on the specific pillow. Some cooling pillows have removable covers that are machine washable, while others may need to be spot cleaned. Always check the care instructions.
Some pillows are better at this than others. The best cooling pillows will have heat absorption and dissipation properties that help them stay cool throughout the night.
While a cooling pillow isn’t specifically designed to alleviate snoring, it can indirectly help by encouraging a more comfortable and uninterrupted sleep, which can lead to fewer snoring episodes.
Yes, you can, but the effectiveness of the cooling feature may be slightly reduced. For maximum cooling, it’s best to use breathable fabric like cotton or bamboo for your pillowcase.
It depends on the type of pillow and how frequently it’s used. Generally, cooling pillows can last between one to three years. It’s recommended to replace it when it no longer provides adequate support or its cooling features diminish.
Some cooling pillows that contain gel or other liquid materials might make slight noises when moved. However, most high-quality cooling pillows are designed to be noiseless for a peaceful sleep.
Yes, cooling pillows are generally safe. However, for young children and pets, it’s best to avoid cooling pillows that contain small beads or gel packs that could pose a choking hazard if the pillow gets damaged.
Leave a Reply