The Best Latex Pillows We Have Tested So Far

Best Overall

The Birch Organic Pillow by Helix is one of the most adaptable pillows we tested. The company assures that it suits all types of sleepers, and after testing it ourselves, we can confirm it lives up to the claim. Whether you're a side, back, or stomach sleeper, this pillow comfortably molds to your body position.

This pillow proved to be incredibly versatile during testing, easily adjusting to all of our sleep preferences. Its flexible design allowed us to compress it when we desired a flatter surface and puff it back up when we wanted additional support—without permanently altering its shape. Even after six months of nightly use, it remains just as plush and comfortable as it was on the first day.

Crafted from a combination of supportive natural Talalay latex and soft, moisture-wicking birch wool, the fill offers a light, bouncy feel. The pillow also stands out for its soft cotton cover and eco-conscious materials, all sourced in an ethical and sustainable manner, including Fair Trade-certified cotton. While the cover tends to retain body heat and can warm up quickly, the pillow still provides a breathable, cozy sleep experience that justifies its higher-than-average price.

Fill Material: Talalay latex, wool, organic cotton | Cover Material: Organic cotton | Certifications: GOTS, Greenguard Gold, eco-INSTITUT | Care: Machine wash cover, spot clean pillow

Top Cooling Choice

We were truly impressed by how cool the Purple Harmony Pillow stayed. Its core consists of solid latex, topped with a honeycomb Gel Flex layer designed for breathability, and wrapped in a moisture-wicking mesh layer that enhances airflow.

We found the inner fill to be like a memory foam Jell-O, giving us the sensation of floating on a cloud. The cover was just as soft and breathable. After six months of use, we can confidently say this pillow is one of the best we’ve ever tried. It has noticeably improved our sleep, and we’ve never needed to flip it to the cool side.

Along with its excellent cooling capabilities, we were also impressed by this pillow’s durability. It maintained its shape throughout the entire testing period. The pillow’s customizability is another plus—it’s available in three different heights (low, medium, and high), making it adaptable for various sleep positions. Although it is one of the more expensive options, we believe its cooling features and resilience justify the price.

Fill Material: Talalay latex, Purple Grid (Hyper-Elastic Polymer) | Cover Material: Nylon and spandex | Certifications: CleanAir Gold and CertiPUR-US | Care: Machine wash cover; spot clean pillow

Best for Side Sleepers

If you’re a side sleeper, you need a pillow that provides both support and softness. This pillow cradles your head and neck, aiding spinal alignment, and we found it to be supportive in all sleep positions, though it was particularly comfortable when sleeping on our side.

It retained its shape well, even as we shifted positions, making it ideal for combination sleepers who move throughout the night. It’s also quite light and features a super soft organic cotton stretch-knit cover. Plus, it’s eco-friendly—this pillow is GOLS-certified, meaning it’s made with 100% certified organic latex for sustainability.

However, the pillow isn’t as breathable as some other options, and it tends to get a bit warm during the night. We also noticed the latex scent initially, though it dissipated over time. After six months of use, the pillow has deflated just slightly but still offers ample comfort and support.

Fill Material: Organic latex | Cover Material: Organic cotton | Certifications: GOLS, GOTS, Greenguard Gold, Made Safe | Care: Machine wash cover, spot clean pillow

Perfect for Back Sleepers

Though this pillow provides great support for all types of sleepers, we found it to be particularly beneficial for back sleepers. Its full and lofty design helped keep our neck elevated while molding comfortably to our head as we slept.

Six months in, the pillow shows no signs of sagging or deterioration and still offers the perfect loft for maintaining proper neck and spine alignment. Our overall sleep quality has improved significantly since we started using it.

Regarding breathability, we never felt overheated while using this pillow. The 300-thread-count cotton cover feels silky and cool, fitting snugly around the pillow. However, it’s not adjustable and may be too lofty for stomach sleepers, so it’s worth considering if you change positions throughout the night.

Fill Material: Talalay latex foam | Cover Material: Cotton | Certifications: Not listed | Care: Machine wash cover, spot clean pillow

Top Choice for Shredded Foam

For those who favor a soft, breathable pillow, shredded latex like this Plush Beds option is an excellent choice. It provides a plush, airy feel that’s gentler than typical latex, making it ideal for those who tend to overheat at night.

Noteworthy for its luxurious softness and long-lasting durability, this pillow quickly returns to its original shape after being pressed. We were especially pleased with the adjustable filling, which allows for fine-tuning to achieve your ideal comfort level.

After six months of use, this pillow remains as plush and fluffy as ever. Its malleability allows you to easily adjust its shape, whether you need to compress or fluff it up. We've especially enjoyed using it to support ourselves while watching TV or relaxing in bed.

The pillow also stays pleasantly cool throughout the night, thanks to its breathable cotton cover, and it doesn’t emit a strong latex smell. The only minor inconvenience is that removing the fill can be a bit messy, so keep a trash can handy. However, these are small issues considering its overall excellence.

Fill Material: Organic latex Cover Material: Organic cotton Certifications: GOLS, GOTS Care: Machine wash cover, spot clean pillow

Ideal for Firm Support

If you’re after strong neck support from a firm pillow, this Turmerry option is perfect. Available in three firmness levels – soft, medium, and firm – we tested the medium version, which was noticeably firmer than many other latex pillows but still comfortable. It provides ample support for back and side sleepers without compromising sleep quality.

We really appreciate the pillow’s breathability and cooling properties, as it didn’t trap heat during testing. It’s not only durable but highly responsive, bouncing back to its original shape after months of use. Made with certified organic latex, it also comes with a thin, protective cotton cover made from certified organic fabric.

While removing the protector, small bits of latex may come loose, and reattaching the protector can be tricky. Nonetheless, we highly recommend this reasonably priced pillow, especially for back and side sleepers.

Fill Material: Latex | Cover Material: Cotton | Certifications: Oeko-Tex | Care: Spot clean pillow

Best Contour

Contour pillows, featuring their signature wave-shaped designs, are built to adapt to your body, ensuring spine support no matter your sleep position. This exceptional option from The Company Store excels in that aspect, with a textured surface providing comfort whether you're lying on your back, side, or stomach.

The contoured design may require some adjustment, but this pillow is perfect for those who typically prefer a firm, memory foam pillow. We found it particularly useful for supporting our head while reading at night. It quickly returned to its original shape after being compressed, didn’t retain excessive heat, and felt remarkably durable. After six months of use, we’ve seen no decline in its quality.

This pillow comes with a quilted, moisture-wicking Coolmax fiber cover that’s easy to remove, though if you prefer something softer, a lightweight polyester knit cover is available. We did notice a slight latex scent, and its firm feel might not be ideal for everyone. Nevertheless, we find this pillow to be a worthwhile investment despite its slightly higher-than-average price.

Fill Material: Latex | Cover Material: Polyester | Certifications: Not listed | Care: Machine wash, hand wash, or spot clean pillow

Final Thoughts

Our top choice is the Birch by Helix Organic Pillow, which offers great flexibility in adjusting to your preferred sleeping position. After six months of use, it maintained its shape and buoyancy without flattening. For a more budget-friendly option, we also recommend the Elite Rest Slim Sleeper, which stays cool throughout the night while providing solid neck and back support.

Our Testing Procedure

To determine the best latex pillows, we tested 17 popular models in our lab, assessing factors such as quality, comfort, breathability, support, durability, and overall value.

In our lab evaluations, we began by examining each pillow’s construction and materials, taking into account the cover, shape, slope, and loft (height). We also measured the loft using rulers. Afterward, we unzipped the cover to assess its zipper functionality and checked for any noticeable latex odor. Replacing the cover, we noted whether it was difficult to reinsert.

We also tested the pillows' flexibility by folding them 'hamburger style' and 'hotdog style' to observe how easily they bent and how quickly they regained their original shape.

To assess the level of support, we placed a 6-pound medicine ball at the center of each pillow and measured how far it sank in. We observed whether the latex conformed to the ball’s shape. After leaving the ball on the pillow for 15 minutes, we timed how long it took for the pillow to return to its original form once removed.

Next, we tested each pillow in various sleeping positions—side, back, and stomach. We evaluated comfort in each of these positions and documented the results. For adjustable-fill pillows, we tested the ease and messiness of adding or removing fill to achieve a comfortable fit.

We also evaluated each pillow’s breathability, noting whether it stayed cool after five minutes of use or if it trapped body heat. After completing lab tests, we took the best performers home and monitored their performance over the course of three and six months.

How to Shop for Latex Pillows Like a Pro

Firmness & Loft

Latex pillows are available in a variety of firmness options, commonly including soft, medium, and firm.

Winnel explains that soft latex pillows provide a plush and gentle support, making them perfect for stomach sleepers or anyone seeking a softer feel. In contrast, medium-firm pillows offer a well-rounded support level, ideal for back and combination sleepers. For side sleepers or individuals needing extra neck and head support, Winnel recommends firm latex pillows for their more substantial support.

The loft, or height of the pillow at its fullest point, is another crucial factor. Latex pillows generally come in low, medium, and high loft options. According to Winnel, low loft pillows are thinner and offer a flatter surface, making them best for stomach sleepers. Medium loft pillows provide a moderate thickness, suitable for back sleepers, while high loft pillows are thicker, designed to fill the gap between the shoulder and neck for side sleepers.

Materials

There are two main types of materials used in latex pillows: natural and synthetic latex.

"Natural latex is harvested from the sap of rubber trees and processed through the Dunlop or Talalay method to create the latex foam used in pillows," Winnel states. “It is known for being eco-friendly, hypoallergenic, and offers a supportive yet responsive feel.”

Synthetic latex (also known as man-made or blended latex) is produced using petroleum-based materials and mimics the characteristics of natural latex. While it's typically more affordable, Winnel notes that it may not offer the same eco-friendly or hypoallergenic benefits as natural latex.

Winnel explains that some latex pillows combine both natural and synthetic latex to strike a balance between cost and desirable properties. Most latex pillows come with protective covers, which are generally made from soft, machine-washable cotton.

Solid vs. Shredded

When browsing for pillows, you’ll likely encounter two types of latex: slab and shredded. Shredded latex is softer, lighter, and more pliable, making it easy to compress or fluff depending on your preferences.

Due to its smaller components, shredded latex allows for enhanced airflow, which can be particularly helpful for hot sleepers. On the other hand, solid latex pillows are denser and more supportive, maintaining their shape while cradling your neck throughout the night.

Care

The lifespan of your latex pillow is greatly influenced by how well you care for it. Winnel provides several recommendations for maintaining your pillow's durability, as outlined below: 

“Start by using a pillow protector or a pillowcase to shield it from stains and dust,” she advises. “Wash the pillowcases regularly to ensure a clean sleep environment. Avoid exposing the latex pillow to moisture, as it can lead to mold. Fluff and rotate the pillow periodically to maintain its shape and evenly distribute wear.”

You can't clean a latex pillow the same way as other pillows. If it becomes soiled, Winnel suggests spot cleaning the area with mild detergent and a damp cloth. She also recommends against machine washing or drying, as excess moisture can damage the latex foam.

To prevent any potential damage, she suggests occasionally airing the pillow out in a well-ventilated area to refresh it. Additionally, using a pillowcase with a zipper closure can help ensure the pillow stays securely covered.

Certifications

Certain latex pillows come with a Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS) certification, indicating that the pillow is made with at least 95% certified organic materials. Another common certification is the OEKO-TEX Standard 100, which ensures the latex is free from harmful chemicals. If sustainability is a priority for you, look for these certifications when shopping.

Return Policy

Latex pillows can be a significant investment, so it's wise to review the return policy before purchasing. For example, Buffy offers returns with full refunds within 50 days of purchase, while Birch provides a 100-night sleep trial, allowing customers to return the pillow at no extra cost during this period.

More Latex Pillows to Consider

Brooklyn Bedding Talalay Pillow: A sturdy option that initially offered a lot of bounce and resistance. However, over extended use, it lost some of its loft, resulting in some neck discomfort for us.

Eco Terra Natural Latex Pillow: A comfortable, cooling pillow that is reasonably priced. Unfortunately, its filling is not adjustable without making a mess, and it has a noticeable latex odor.

Organic Textiles Natural Latex Pillow: This pillow comes in four firmness options, making it a good choice for those particular about pillow height. We found it to be a bit too bouncy, but that might not be an issue for everyone.

Questions You Might Ask

What are the benefits of a latex pillow?

Latex pillows offer a range of benefits, starting with their durability. Winnel notes that their natural responsiveness and supportive qualities promote proper head and neck alignment, helping alleviate neck pain and fostering better sleep posture.

In addition to being hypoallergenic, latex pillows resist dust mites and mold, making them a great choice for allergy sufferers. "Their lasting durability provides ongoing support, and the open-cell structure encourages airflow, keeping the pillow cool and comfortable all night long," she adds. Furthermore, they are made from renewable resources, making them an eco-friendly option for those who prioritize sustainability.

Are latex pillows better than memory foam?

Latex pillows and memory foam pillows both share some characteristics, but they stand apart in terms of feel and support. There’s no definitive ‘better’ pillow — the choice ultimately depends on personal preference.

"Latex pillows are responsive and supportive, adapting to the head and neck’s contours," Winnel explains. "They offer a balanced level of support and rebound quickly." Latex pillows also tend to be more breathable than their memory foam counterparts, making them ideal for hot sleepers. They are also known for their durability, often lasting up to a decade.

On the flip side, memory foam pillows provide a more contouring feel, molding to the shape of the head and neck. According to Winnel, memory foam responds more slowly and conforms more deeply than latex. While they are excellent at relieving pressure points, they may trap more heat compared to latex pillows.

Not sure which pillow is best for you? Think about the level of support, responsiveness, and contouring you need. If you seek a breathable, long-lasting pillow that quickly regains its shape, latex might be the perfect fit. However, if you prefer a firmer pillow for back pain relief and are less concerned with ventilation, memory foam could be the better option.

Are latex pillows supportive?

Latex pillows are widely recognized for their excellent support. They offer a firm yet adaptive feel that molds to the shape of your neck and shoulders as you sleep. Their density and remarkable ability to bounce back allow them to move with you as you shift positions during the night.

However, some latex pillows provide more support than others. Winnel explains that firmer latex pillows offer greater support than softer options, making them perfect for those in need of additional neck and back support. Solid latex pillows are generally firmer than shredded latex pillows, as they maintain a more consistent shape due to their reduced malleability.

How often should you replace a latex pillow?

The longevity of a latex pillow can differ, but Winnel typically recommends replacing them every five to ten years. "High-quality latex pillows can retain their shape and provide support over an extended period, but eventually, they may lose their resilience and ability to support the neck and head properly," she notes.

To determine when it’s time to replace your pillow, Winnel advises inspecting for visible damage, changes in shape and support, and any noticeable odors. She suggests that regular care and rotating the pillow can help extend its life, but ultimately, replacing it guarantees ongoing sleep comfort and proper spinal alignment.

Take Our Word for It

This article was authored by Rachel Simon, a contributing writer for Mytour, Better Homes & Gardens, The New York Times, and several other renowned publications; and later updated by Jamie Fischer, a shopping writer for Mytour. We thoroughly tested 17 latex pillows over six months, both in lab conditions and at home, examining their breathability, comfort, value, and more. To gain expert perspectives, we consulted Elina Winnel, a renowned sleep expert and master sleep coach at The Sleep Expert.