Keeping cool while sleeping is crucial to our sleep quality. Feeling too warm can lead to discomfort, night sweats, and difficulty falling asleep. Luckily, the trend of flipping your pillow to the cool side has given rise to cooling pillows that provide a consistently comfortable sleep experience. Unlike regular pillows that can attract heat due to their polyester or feather filling, cooling pillows are designed with advanced technology.
A cooling pillow is a type of pillow designed to keep you cool and comfortable while you sleep. It’s made from materials that dissipate heat and allow for better air circulation, helping to regulate your body temperature and prevent overheating.
They are filled with a gel that disperses heat from your body and encased in materials like bamboo or fine cotton that promote airflow. Some models even feature ventilation holes and better contouring to maximize airflow, ensuring you get the best possible sleep.
Bluewave Bedding Ultra Slim CarbonBlue Max Cool Gel Memory Foam Pillow
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- EXTRA COOL VERSION OF OUR BEST SELLING MODEL: Only 2.75 inches high, the Bluewave Bedding Ultra Slim Memory Foam Pillow features an ideal low profile for stomach, back, and even small-framed side sleepers. Also available in 2.25 and 3.25 inch heights.
- CARBONBLUE MAX COOLING: CarbonBlue coating provides instant cooling relief with infused carbon graphite particles to regulate heat throughout the night. Unlike a hard gel layer, CarbonBlue is breathable, light weight, and it is made in the USA!
What to Consider When Choosing Cooling Pillows?
Cooling Pillow Materials
Cooling pillows are made with a variety of materials that can help regulate temperature and provide a comfortable sleeping experience. Some of the most common materials used in cooling pillows include:
- Gel: Gel-infused pillows are designed to absorb and dissipate heat, keeping the pillow and sleeper cool throughout the night.
- Memory foam: Memory foam is a popular material for cooling pillows because it conforms to the shape of the head and neck while providing support and pressure relief. Many memory foam cooling pillows are infused with gel beads or other materials to enhance their cooling properties.
- Latex: Latex is a naturally breathable material that can help keep pillows cool. Latex pillows are often used by people who prefer a firmer pillow that provides support for the head and neck.
- Down alternative: Down alternative pillows are made from synthetic materials that mimic the softness and loft of down feathers. These pillows are often used by people who prefer a softer, more plush sleeping surface.
- Buckwheat: Buckwheat pillows are filled with buckwheat hulls, which provide a firm and supportive sleeping surface. The hulls are naturally breathable, which helps to regulate temperature and prevent overheating.
- Bamboo: Bamboo is a naturally breathable material that wicks away moisture and helps to regulate temperature. Bamboo pillows are often infused with other cooling materials, such as gel, to enhance their cooling properties.
Ultimately, the best cooling pillow material for you will depend on your personal preferences and sleeping habits. It’s important to choose a pillow that provides the right level of support and comfort, while also helping to regulate temperature and prevent overheating.
Cooling Pillow Types
There are several types of cooling pillows available, including:
Gel-infused pillows
These pillows have gel beads infused into the memory foam or other materials used to create the pillow. The gel beads help to regulate temperature and keep the pillow cool, without adding bulk or weight to the pillow.
These pillows combine different cooling technologies, such as gel and ventilation holes, to create a more comprehensive cooling experience. They may also have multiple layers of different materials, such as memory foam, latex, or down alternative, for a customized sleeping experience.
Memory foam pillows
These pillows are made from memory foam that has been infused with cooling gel, graphite, or other cooling materials. The foam is designed to conform to your head and neck while providing a cool, comfortable sleeping surface.
Memory foam cooling pillows are designed to provide the comfort and support of traditional memory foam pillows while also regulating temperature to prevent overheating. These pillows are typically infused with cooling materials, such as gel beads or phase change materials, to help dissipate heat and keep sleepers cool throughout the night.
Memory foam cooling pillows can be found in a variety of shapes and sizes to accommodate different sleeping preferences. Some popular shapes include traditional rectangular pillows, contoured pillows that cradle the head and neck, and wedge pillows that provide support for reading or watching TV in bed.
One of the benefits of memory foam cooling pillows is that they can help alleviate pressure points and reduce pain in the neck, shoulders, and back. This is because memory foam conforms to the shape of the body, distributing weight evenly and providing support where it’s needed most.
When shopping for a memory foam cooling pillow, it’s important to consider factors like firmness level, shape, and the cooling technology used. Some pillows may be too firm or too soft for certain sleepers, while others may not provide enough support for specific sleep positions. It’s also a good idea to read reviews and compare different brands to find a pillow that meets your needs and budget.
Water-based pillows
These pillows have a water-filled core that helps to regulate temperature and provide a cool, supportive sleeping surface.
Additionally, these pillows can often be adjusted to your preferred level of firmness by adding or removing water. Some water-based pillows also come with a layer of cushioning material, such as foam or fiber, to enhance comfort and support.
Natural fiber pillows
These pillows are made from natural fibers such as bamboo or cotton, which are naturally breathable and moisture-wicking, helping to keep you cool and comfortable.
Cooling pillows are especially beneficial for people who tend to overheat during the night, such as those who experience hot flashes, night sweats, or who live in hot and humid climates. They can also be helpful for people who suffer from allergies or asthma, as they are often made from hypoallergenic materials.
Sizes
Cooling pillows are available in a variety of sizes to accommodate different sleeping preferences and bed sizes. Some common sizes include:
- Standard: Standard-size pillows measure 20 inches by 26 inches and are suitable for twin and full-size beds.
- Queen: Queen-size pillows measure 20 inches by 30 inches and are suitable for queen-size beds.
- King: King-size pillows measure 20 inches by 36 inches and are suitable for king-size beds.
- Body: Body pillows are long, cylindrical pillows that are typically 48 to 54 inches in length. These pillows provide support for the entire body and are often used by side sleepers or pregnant women.
- Euro: Euro pillows are large square pillows that measure 26 inches by 26 inches. These pillows are often used as decorative accents on the bed, but can also be used for support while sitting up in bed.
When selecting a cooling pillow size, it’s important to consider the size of your bed, as well as your sleeping habits and preferences. Some people prefer a larger pillow for extra support, while others prefer a smaller, more compact pillow. It’s also a good idea to choose a pillow size that fits comfortably on your bed without overcrowding the space.
Shape
Cooling pillows are available in a variety of shapes to accommodate different sleeping preferences and provide targeted support. Some common shapes include:
- Traditional: Traditional cooling pillows are rectangular in shape and are designed to support the head and neck in a neutral position.
- Contour: Contour cooling pillows have a curved shape that conforms to the natural shape of the head and neck. These pillows are designed to provide targeted support and alleviate pressure points.
- Wedge: Wedge cooling pillows have a triangular shape and are designed to elevate the head and upper body. These pillows are often used for reading, watching TV, or alleviating snoring and acid reflux.
- Cervical: Cervical cooling pillows have a unique shape that is designed to support the natural curve of the neck. These pillows are often recommended for people with neck pain or stiffness.
- Body: Body cooling pillows are long and cylindrical in shape and are designed to provide full-body support. These pillows are often used by side sleepers or people who prefer to hug a pillow while they sleep.
When selecting a cooling pillow shape, it’s important to consider your sleeping habits and any specific areas of pain or discomfort. For example, if you suffer from neck pain, a cervical pillow may be a good choice, while if you like to read in bed, a wedge pillow may be more suitable. It’s also important to choose a shape that feels comfortable and supportive for you.
Firmness
Cooling pillows come in a range of firmness levels, which can have a significant impact on your sleeping experience. Here are some common firmness levels for cooling pillows:
- Soft: Soft cooling pillows are typically made of materials like down, feathers, or microfiber. These pillows offer a plush, sink-in feeling and are ideal for people who sleep on their stomachs or prefer a softer sleep surface.
- Medium: Medium firmness cooling pillows are a good all-purpose option that provides a balance of support and comfort. These pillows are often made of materials like memory foam or latex.
- Firm: Firm cooling pillows are ideal for people who sleep on their backs or side sleepers who need extra support. These pillows are often made of high-density memory foam or latex and offer a more structured sleeping surface.
It’s important to choose a cooling pillow firmness level that provides the right amount of support and comfort for your sleeping position and preferences. If you’re unsure what firmness level is right for you, consider trying out a medium-firm pillow, which is a good all-purpose option.
Hypoallergenic
Hypoallergenic cooling pillows are designed to help reduce allergy symptoms and improve air quality while you sleep. By using materials that are resistant to dust, mold, and other allergens, these pillows can help you breathe easier and sleep more comfortably. In addition, many hypoallergenic cooling pillows are made without latex or harsh chemicals, which can further reduce the risk of allergic reactions. If you suffer from allergies, a hypoallergenic cooling pillow may be a good investment to help improve your sleep quality and overall health.
Who Can Use A Cooling Pillow? Who Shouldn’t Use A Cooling Pillow?
Anyone can use a cooling pillow, but it may be especially beneficial for certain groups of people.
People who tend to sleep hot or live in warm climates may find a cooling pillow particularly helpful in regulating their body temperature and keeping them comfortable throughout the night.
Additionally, people who experience night sweats or hot flashes due to menopause may benefit from using a cooling pillow to help alleviate their symptoms.
However, not everyone may benefit from using a cooling pillow. For example, some people may find that a cooling pillow is too cold or uncomfortable for them, or they may be sensitive to the materials used in the pillow.
Furthermore, people with certain health conditions such as Raynaud’s syndrome or other conditions that cause poor circulation may find that a cooling pillow exacerbates their symptoms and should avoid using them.
If you’re considering a cooling pillow, it’s important to take your individual needs and preferences into account and speak with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns about using a cooling pillow.
Can I Machine-Wash A Cooling Pillow?
Whether or not you can machine-wash a cooling pillow will depend on the specific pillow you have. Some cooling pillows can be machine-washed, while others require special care or can only be spot-cleaned.
Generally speaking, pillows with a removable cover or case can be machine-washed, as long as the care instructions allow for it. It’s important to check the care instructions carefully before washing your cooling pillow to ensure that you do not damage the materials or affect their cooling properties.
In some cases, it may be necessary to hand-wash or spot-clean your cooling pillow to avoid damaging the materials or affecting its cooling properties. Always follow the manufacturer’s care instructions for the best results. If you are unsure about whether or not your cooling pillow can be machine-washed, consult the care instructions or contact the manufacturer for guidance.
Can I Put A Cooling Pillow In the Dryer?
It depends on the specific pillow you have and the care instructions provided by the manufacturer.
It’s important to check the care instructions carefully before drying your cooling pillow to ensure that you do not damage the materials or affect their cooling properties.
In general, pillows with a memory foam or gel core should not be put in the dryer, as the heat can damage the materials and affect their shape and support. Pillows with a removable cover or case can typically be dried in the dryer in a low-heat setting, but it’s important to check the care instructions to be sure.
If you are unsure about whether or not your cooling pillow can be dried in the dryer, consult the care instructions or contact the manufacturer for guidance.
How Long Can A Cooling Pillow Last?
The lifespan of a cooling pillow can vary depending on factors such as the quality of the materials, frequency of use, and maintenance.
Generally speaking, a well-made cooling pillow can last anywhere from 1-3 years with proper care. However, some high-end models made with premium materials can last even longer.
To ensure that your cooling pillow lasts as long as possible, it’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s care instructions. Typically, this includes washing the cover regularly, avoiding exposing the pillow to extreme temperatures or sunlight, and using a pillowcase to protect it from stains and oils from your skin.
In addition, if your cooling pillow is losing its cooling effect or is no longer as comfortable as it used to be, it may be time to replace it. A good rule of thumb is to replace your pillow every 1-2 years, regardless of the type or material, to ensure that you’re getting the best support for your head and neck.
