7 Best Organic Pillows (100% Non-Toxic) for Natural Sleep

Organic pillows are the perfect solution if you're concerned about breathing in toxic chemicals while you sleep.

The fact is that most regular pillows are made from synthetic materials such as polyurethane foam, which is terrible for the environment and contains toxins and flame retardants that have been linked to serious health issues.

If you're like me, you won't want these harmful chemicals right next to your head for 8 hours a day!

I've spent the last 12 months testing and researching the best organic pillows on the market, during which time I've learned which brands and products are trustworthy (and which to avoid).

Today I'll show you some amazing options made from natural materials like organic latex, organic wool, or down feathers. They're super comfy, offer incredible head and neck support, and (crucially) are 100% non-toxic!

My 7 Favorite Organic Pillows

We Say: PlushBeds is the brand we use the most in our bedrooms at home. And now they’ve knocked it out of the park again with this organic shredded latex pillow.

In the past, I've sometimes found solid latex pillows a little too hard for my liking, but this shredded offering feels just right! It’s rated as a medium-firm pillow and offers the perfect level of support and comfort for side sleepers like me.

The adjustable design means it's also the perfect choice for combination sleepers who like to change position during the night. This, combined with the excellent support and spinal alignment, is why I also picked it as my top organic pillow for neck pain relief.

The Standard size has a 4” loft. The Queen and King sizes have a loft of 5”. In my experience, both should suit the majority of sleep styles.

I found that the GOTS-certified organic cotton cover made the pillow breathable, cool, and silky soft to the touch, which means it's a great option for hot sleepers like me.

You'll also benefit from a three-year warranty and free shipping within the United States.

It's worth noting that from time to time, PlushBeds offers free pillows and bedding when you buy a mattress. So if you are in the market for a new sustainable mattress as well, I'd recommend getting the bundle together as you'll save a few hundred bucks.

Returns are not accepted due to sanitary reasons. However, if your pillow develops a fault in the first three years, PlushBeds will replace it for free and ask you to dispose of the faulty one responsibly.

Not that I expect you to have an issue. We’ve had these pillows for a long time, and they’re still as comfortable now as the day they arrived.

We Say: There was nothing much between this pillow and my overall winner from PlushBeds. It all came down to firmness preference.

This pillow is noticeably softer than the PlushBeds one. I prefer a firmer feel, so this one didn't work quite as well for my needs. But if you prefer a soft pillow, or you normally sleep on your front, then this is a great option for you.

This Naturepedic pillow offers a certified organic latex core, and the cover is made with certified organic cotton. It’s also certified non-toxic by MADE SAFE.

The stretch-knit fabric cover feels so soft you might find yourself slowly stroking it as you drift off to sleep.

I also love that Naturepedic is a member of 1% For The Planet and is also Rain Forest Alliance and GREENGUARD certified.

You only get a one-year warranty with this pillow (compared with three years with PlushBeds), but you do get free returns and a 30-night sleep trial (something that PlushBeds doesn’t offer).

There are no shipping costs to pay if you live within the contiguous United States.

We Say: Avocado organic sleep products have always been amongst my favorites, and this GOLS-certified organic latex pillow is no exception.

The Avocado Green Pillow is, hands down, the best kapok pillow option I tested. The rest felt stiff and uncomfortable. But the Avocado Green Pillow was different. The hybrid mix of latex and kapok gives a softer, fluffier finish that feels exactly like down while still maintaining excellent levels of support.

That's why I've rated it as a great down alternative pillow. But I also found that it sleeps incredibly cool. So if you're a hot sleeper, this is going to be a great option for you!

I also love the customizability of this pillow. You can add or remove filling to get the perfect loft for your sleep style. I find the standard medium-plush version to be ideal for side and stomach sleepers.

The pillow is GREENGUARD Gold certified, vegan, and handmade in Los Angeles.

You get 100 nights to try this pillow in the comfort of your own home, and a one-year warranty covers your purchase.

In terms of shipping, not only is it free of cost…it’s also free of any carbon emissions.

The 100% long-strand mulberry silk filling of this pillow gave a luxurious softness and natural breathability that none of the other silk pillows I tested could match.

From the first night of the test, the Cozy Earth Silk Pillow improved my sleep quality. Its soft, plush feel cradled my head gently while still offering a high level of support.

Unlike other pillows I tested that flattened over time, this one maintained its loft and shape. It just needed a quick daily fluffing to keep it in tip-top condition.

As someone with mild allergies, I also appreciated the hypoallergenic benefits of this pillow. No waking up with a stuffy nose!

The ethical production practices of Cozy Earth also add to the appeal of this pillow. You can sleep soundly knowing that your cloud-soft pillow doesn't come at the expense of the planet or human rights.

We Say: Latex for Less offers you the choice of fillings for the same affordable price.

You can choose from two options: a solid latex core, which offers responsive support in any sleep position, or a shredded latex core which is softer, fluffier, and great for back sleepers. I found it allowed my head to sink in but still provided enough support to create the perfect shape.

Both versions come wrapped in an organic cotton shell for comfort and breathability.

The pillow is made from 100% organic textiles (GOLS and GOTS Certified) and is backed up by a generous 5-year warranty.

With genuine 5-star customer ratings, and my own personal seal of approval (I can vouch for the fact that it's extremely comfortable) you're sure to get a good night's sleep in any sleeping position.

We Say: Mrs. M suffered terribly from backache when pregnant with both of our daughters. A body pillow helped manage the pain at night and eventually stop it altogether.

We tested a handful of body pillows and eventually decided that The Futon Shop organic cotton pillows performed better than the rest.

Sleeping with a body pillow took some getting used to for me. But once I got the technique right (with a bit of help from Mrs. M), I started to see the appeal.

The $20 shipping fee is a little on the steep side. However, if you live close to a store, you can order for free in-store pick-up.

We Say: The Saatva Quilted Pillow is new on the market. It stands out as a very high-quality product, but with a price tag to match.

Sleeping on an organic pillow is always an upgrade due to the high-quality materials, but this really takes it to the next level. It boasts a soft shredded latex fill, and the pillow slip is removable and machine washable for ease of use.

What sets it apart from similar products is that the GOTS organic cotton cover is also quilted with a layer of New Zealand wool. It feels so incredibly soft you'll just want to doze off as soon as your head touches it.

The 7" loft makes the Saatva Quilted Pillow thicker than most of its rivals, which you'll particularly appreciate if you're a side sleeper who finds standard pillows too thin.

At a little over $250 for a Queen size, these natural latex pillows do come with a premium price tag (although they also offer a standard Saatva Latex Pillow which is around $100 cheaper). But if your budget allows, this is the ultimate in luxury sleep.

What Makes a Pillow Organic?

An organic pillow must be made from materials that have been grown and processed according to specific standards, without the use of synthetic pesticides or fertilizers.

Similarly, an organic wool pillow must be made from wool taken from sheep that have been raised on organic farms that do not use chemicals to control parasites.

Bodies such as the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) or the Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS) provide guidelines for how materials should be grown, harvested, and processed to be considered organic.

TIP: Beware of greenwashing! Some less ethical pillow manufacturers have been known to market their product as an  organic pillow, when in reality it's really an organic cover over a synthetic filling.

Don't fall for these claims! Both the cover AND fill need to be organic. Synthetic fill material will still off-gas chemicals even if they're wrapped in an organic cover, and they are still bad for the environment.

Why You Need Organic Pillows: Pros and Cons

Organic Pillow Pros

• Better For Your Health: You avoid exposure to harmful chemicals and toxins.
• Better For The Planet: Organic materials do not use harmful pesticides, and use up fewer precious natural resources.
• Breathable: While synthetic fabrics trap body heat, natural fibers allow air to pass through, giving a cooling effect that helps regulate your body temperature while you sleep.
• Sustainability: Synthetic materials such as nylon and polyester are petroleum-based, and therefore contribute to climate change.

Organic Pillow Cons

• Expensive: The high cost of certifications, materials, and labor means that organic products can be pricey.
• Reduced Options: There are fewer truly organic and natural pillows on the market than synthetic ones.
• Less In-person Options: Many brick-and-mortar retailers do not stock genuinely organic products. However, they can be bought online (often with free delivery).

Overall, I feel that the pros far outweigh the cons and I would advise anyone to buy pillows made from 100% organic material if your budget allows.

What's Wrong With Traditional Pillows? (Common Toxins You'll Want to Avoid)

VOCs

You’ll find Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) in the synthetic materials used to make most bedding products, including pillows.

When these VOCs break down, they can break down into harmful toxins. These toxins can off-gas and cause indoor air pollution. When they are inhaled they can cause serious health problems such as:

• Headaches
• Difficulty breathing
• Skin irritation
• Endocrine Disruption
• Cancer

Formaldehyde

One of the most toxic chemicals found in conventional pillows is formaldehyde. This chemical is used to treat the fill material and cover material and can be released into the air over time.

Synthetic Fibers

Another concern with conventional pillows is the synthetic fibers they are made with. These fibers can irritate the skin and cause allergies.

Synthetic fibers are also more damaging to the environment than natural fibers and sustainable fabrics.

Ethylene Glycol

Ethylene glycol is a potentially toxic chemical found in most polyester pillows. It’s inhaled during sleep and has been linked with kidney damage.

PVC

PVC is a type of plastic used to construct some of the cheaper conventional pillows.

PVC is made from petroleum and is not eco-friendly at all. It can also off-gas petroleum-based chemicals while you sleep.

Fire Retardants

Many conventional pillows are treated with fire retardants. These chemicals can be released into the air and reduce air quality.

Memory foam pillows made with CertiPUR-US certified foam are guaranteed not to contain the following toxic flame retardants:

• Pentabromodiphenyl ether
• Antimony
• Chlorinated phenols (PCP, TeCP)
• Tri-(2,3-dibromo-propyl)-phosphate (TRIS)
• Octabromodiphenyl ether
• Decabromodiphenyl ether
• Nitrites
• Dimethyl Methylphosphonate (DMMP)
• Tris-(aziridinyl)-phosphinoxide (TEPA)
• Polybrominated Biphenyls (PBB)
• Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCB)
• Tris-(1,3-dichloro-2-propyl)-phosphate (TDCPP)
• Tris-(2-chloroethyl)-phosphate (TCEP)
• Polychlorinated Terphenyls (PCT)

There is no fire retardant regulation in uncertified foam.

What to Look for When Shopping for an Organic Pillow

If you were thinking of shopping for organic pillows in stores such as Target or Walmart - beware!

Many manufacturers label cushions and pillows as organic, but in reality, they only use an organic encasement over a synthetic fill.

Do not fall for this greenwashing. Only 100 percent organic pillows are environmentally friendly and safe for you and your family.

Here are the criteria I used to decide on the best organic pillows to recommend as my top picks.

Fill Material

The fill material is a crucial factor when choosing organic pillows. The main types you'll come across are:

• Latex: Made from natural latex (a sap from rubber trees), a latex pillow is bouncy and supportive. A good choice for people with allergies, as it’s naturally hypoallergenic. Natural rubber is also mold and mildew-resistant. There are three types of latex pillows, shredded, molded, or solid. Shredded is usually the softest, molded the middle ground, and solid the firmest. Latex is a good all-round material for side and combination sleepers.
• Organic Wool: Another good option for people with allergies, as it's naturally hypoallergenic (and also naturally fire-resistant). It also comes with the added bonus of being temperature regulating, keeping you cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
• Down Feathers: Down pillows are filled with the soft, fluffy feathers of birds such as ducks or geese. They’re the lightest and most luxurious pillow filling. They’re also very good at regulating temperature. However, down feathers may not be suitable for people with allergies, and are not suitable for vegans. Always look for down obtained sustainably and ethically.
• Kapok Fibers: Kapok is a tree fiber often used as a natural alternative to down feathers. It’s a lighter and softer fill material than wool, making it a good choice for stomach sleepers who need a flat, soft pillow.
• Buckwheat: Buckwheat pillows are filled with buckwheat hulls (the seeds’ hard outer shell). They’re very supportive and are good for back sleepers and people who suffer from migraines, as they can help relieve pressure on the head and neck.
• Polylactide (PLA): Made from plant-based fibers such as non-GMO sugarcane fiber (also known as sugarcane bagasse) that can be used as pillow fill or batting. Plant-based PLA is non-toxic, biodegradable, and eco-friendly.
• Water/Air: Water and air-filled pillows are often considered a good option for camping. They also give variable support options because you can inflate or fill to your desired level. However, the problem with them is that most are made from PVC, hence not recommended for permanent use inside your home.
• Foam: Memory foam pillows are popular, but they’re not fully organic and I don't recommend them.

Cover Material

Your pillow cover is the part that is going to come into direct contact with your skin. Therefore, it is vital to choose sustainable textiles that have been produced without the use of chemical pesticides or fertilizers.

Most people prefer breathable materials that will wick away moisture, such as the following:

• Organic Cotton: Soft, durable, and breathable.
• Linen: Similar to cotton but often more expensive. Linen is also softer and more absorbent than cotton.
• Hemp: Robust, durable and breathable. Hemp is also naturally resistant to mold, mildew, and bacteria.
• Bamboo: Natural bamboo is hypoallergenic and resistant to bacteria. Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification verifies that the bamboo has been grown sustainably. However, be aware that some bamboo viscose or rayon fabrics may have been processed using toxic chemicals - especially those marketed as "soft" or "silky". It may not be as eco-friendly or healthy as you think.
• Silk: A natural protein fiber spun by silkworms that’s soft and smooth. Silk is a luxury fabric, so it’s often more expensive than other options.
• Eucalyptus: A plant-based organic fiber that’s similar to bamboo but softer. Eucalyptus makes luxurious pillows but usually comes with a high price tag.

Certifications

When choosing organic pillows, look for third-party certifications from respected and well-known organizations. This will give you valuable assurance that you’re buying a genuine product.

Some key certifications to look out for include:

• Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS): GOLS certifies that the latex in pillows is organic, from its raw material stage to the finished product, ensuring sustainable manufacturing processes.
• Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS): GOTS certification means the textiles used in the pillows, from the outer fabric to the sewing thread, meet ecological and social criteria.
• Organic Content Standard (OCS): OCS tracks and verifies the content of organically grown materials in pillows throughout the production chain.
• USDA Organic: While not commonly applied to textiles, a USDA Organic certification for pillows would indicate that any plant-based materials used meet the strict organic farming standards set by the USDA.
• GreenGuard® GOLD: This certification ensures that pillows meet rigorous chemical emissions standards, contributing to healthier indoor air quality.
• OEKO-TEX: OEKO-TEX certified pillows have been tested for harmful substances and are deemed safe for direct skin contact.
• MADE SAFE: Pillows with MADE SAFE certification contain ingredients that have been thoroughly screened for human health safety.

Support for Your Sleeping Position

Your sleep position determines the type of pillow that will provide you with the best support.

• Stomach Sleepers will benefit from a flatter pillow. This will help keep your spine in alignment.
• Back Sleepers need a pillow that’s firm and supportive. This will help keep your neck in line with your spine.
• Side Sleepers need a thicker, but soft pillow that will help fill the space between your ear and shoulder.

Price

Organic and sustainable products are sometimes more expensive.

This is because it costs more to produce the raw materials and pay everyone a fair wage in the supply chain.

However, the pillows on the list above are affordable and offer excellent value for money. They'll last longer than cheap synthetic pillows, and you really can't put a price on your family's health.

Are organic pillows worth it?

Yes, organic pillows are worth it. They're better for the environment and can be healthier for you, reducing exposure to chemicals found in non-organic pillows.

They might also improve your sleep quality, thanks to natural breathability and comfort. They do cost more, but are often more durable, making them a good investment in the long run.

What is the healthiest pillow to use?

The healthiest pillow to use is one made from natural and organic materials.

Organic latex, wool, and cotton pillows are great choices. They are free from synthetic chemicals and toxins, which is better for both your health and the environment.

These materials also offer good support and breathability, contributing to a comfortable and healthy sleep environment. Consider your personal comfort preferences and any allergies when choosing the healthiest pillow for you.

What is the least toxic pillow filling?

The least toxic pillow filling is organic latex, followed closely by organic cotton and wool. These materials are free from synthetic chemicals and pesticides, making them safer for your health and the environment.

Organic latex, in particular, is highly regarded for its purity, resistance to dust mites, and lack of toxic off-gassing, making it an excellent choice for a non-toxic sleep environment.

Should pillows be organic?

Yes, ideally pillows should be organic. This is particularly important if you prioritize health, environmental sustainability, and natural materials in your bedding.

How do I know my pillow is organic?

To know if your pillow is actually organic, check the product label or manufacturer's website for certifications such as GOTS, GOLS, or USDA Organic. These certifications ensure that the materials used are grown without the use of pesticides, and that the production process meets strict environmental and social criteria.

What's the best organic pillow for side sleepers?

Side sleepers need a thicker pillow with a higher loft, to properly fill the gap under their head and keep the neck and spine in alignment.

The PlushBeds Organic Shredded Latex Pillow is a great choice for side sleepers and came out top in my tests.

Do I need to use a pillow cover?

Yes. To help prolong the life of your pillow, I recommend using a pillowcase and/or an organic pillow protector.

How do I clean an organic pillow & bedding?

To clean and care for organic pillows, first remove the pillow case and spot clean spills immediately to prevent them from soaking into the filling.

If the pillow has a removable machine washable cover, I’d recommend washing it at a low temperature. Do not tumble dry unless the label specifically says you can. Most are line dry only.

Always check the care label to ensure you don’t do anything that will damage your bedding.

Does an organic pillow have an odor?

No - pillows that are free from harmful chemicals and toxins shouldn’t have any odors.

However, some organic latex might have a slight smell straight out of the wrapper. Simply leave it in a well-ventilated room for a few hours, and the smell should disappear.

How long do organic pillows last?

Organic pillows can last between several years to a decade, depending on the material and how well they are cared for. For example, organic latex pillows are known for their durability and can last up to 8 years or more.

Organic cotton and wool pillows might have a slightly shorter lifespan but can still last for many years with proper care. To maximize longevity, follow the manufacturer's care instructions, such as using pillow protectors and washing the pillows as recommended.

The Final Word

We spend around 33 years of our lives in bed, so it’s crucial to ensure that our sleeping environment is as comfortable, relaxing, and healthy as possible.

Sadly, many people sleep on and under synthetic fibers which potentially off-gas VOCs all night while they sleep.

Changing your pillow is an important first step, but don't forget to add organic sheets and bedding too!

This article has revealed my top picks for the best organic pillows of 2024, and I'm confident that at least one of them will be perfect for your needs and budget. Until next time, sleep well...