Top 7 Organic Pillows for Neck Pain Relief & Contour Support

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James Miller
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James is an environmentalist, sustainability expert and senior editor at TheRoundup, specializing in testing non-toxic, organic and eco-friendly products. James, his wife and two daughters believe in chemical-free and zero-waste living. They aim to leave the planet in a better state than we found it, for future generations to enjoy.
James Miller
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Updated: April 15, 2024

If you regularly wake up with a sore neck and shoulders, you'll probably know that your pillow can be the cause of - and solution to - the problem.

The best pillows offer ergonomic contoured support that can reduce or even eliminate neck pain.

However, many traditional pillows are made from synthetic latex or polyurethane foam that can release harmful chemicals into the air. If you buy these, you're simply swapping one health problem for another.

Using my 12+ years of sleep testing experience, I've researched and reviewed the best organic neck pillows of 2024. These natural pillows offer unbeatable support for your head and neck, using 100% non-toxic and organic materials.

With my detailed reviews and buyer's guide, I'll help you find the perfect supportive pillow for any sleep position.

Best Organic Pillows for Neck and Shoulder Pain Relief

Size: Standard, Queen, King
Loft: Adjustable
Firmness: Moderate to firm
Shape: Traditional
Temperature Regulating: Yes
Breathable: Yes
Hypoallergenic: Yes
Certifications: GOLS (Global Organic Latex Standard) and GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) certified
Materials: Organic shredded natural latex fill; organic cotton cover
Warranty: 3 Years
Returns: Not returnable due to safety and sanitary regulations

I've found the PlushBeds Shredded Latex Pillow to be a standout choice for neck pain relief. 

I'm making it my top pick overall because the adjustable and flexible design makes it a great option for all types of sleepers, and it comes in at a very competitive price point.

The shredded latex core can be shifted around, and you can even remove some of the fill or add more. This allows for personalization in terms of getting the optimum height and firmness for your personal preferences.

It maintains a perfect balance between softness and support. Unlike memory foam pillows, where the head can sink uncomfortably, this pillow offers a "bounce back" effect, cradling the head without excessive sinking. 

It's also great for temperature regulation, as the materials do not retain excessive heat. I'm usually a hot sleeper, and this pillow has significantly reduced the amount I toss and turn.

The absence of any unpleasant smells is another plus, and of course, like most PlushBeds products, it's fully certified organic. That means it's made with sustainable materials, with no toxic chemicals. 

I genuinely believe this pillow can be a game-changer for those with neck issues, and the 5-star customer feedback shows that most other people agree.

Size: Standard, Queen, King
Loft: 5" designed for side and back sleepers
Firmness: Firm neck support
Shape: Traditional
Temperature Regulating: Yes
Breathable: Yes
Hypoallergenic: Yes
Certifications: GOTS, GREENGUARD Gold, Formaldehyde-Free Verified by UL Environment, Climate Neutral Certified, PETA-Approved Vegan
Materials: FSC-certified latex infused with charcoal, Organic cotton cover
Warranty: 1-year limited
Returns: 100 Night Trial

The Avocado Molded Latex Pillow has a rather unique texture. It feels almost jelly-like texture and also quite heavy, which gave me the initial impression of being too firm. However, it quickly proved to be a revelation in terms of comfort and support, especially for a side sleeper like me.

Describing the pillow's firm yet soft balance seems almost a contradiction in terms, but let me try to explain. It's firm in terms of the great support it provides, but it still feels soft and luxurious when you put your head on it. This means it contours to the head and neck without losing shape or support.

This is a high-quality, well-made pillow that feels cool all night long, providing restful sleep without causing stiffness or headaches. And being from Avocado, it also comes with an impressive range of certifications that set it apart from conventional pillows.

This is more expensive than the popular Avocado Green Pillow, and the loft and design mean it's not a good option for stomach sleepers.

However, if you're a back or side sleeper and you need firmer support, this is a sustainable, high-quality choice that justifies its price.

Size: Standard
Loft: High 5" loft and low 4" loft sides
Firmness: Medium (55K density) or Firm (65K density) options
Shape: Cervical contour shape
Temperature Regulating: Yes
Breathable: Yes
Hypoallergenic: Yes
Certifications: GOLS, Oeko-Tex, and eco-INSTITUT Certified Latex
Materials: Certified organic latex with a zippered organic cotton cover
Warranty: 2 Years
Returns: 120-day return policy

The Turmerry Latex Contour Pillow boasts a unique contour design that is highly effective at alleviating neck pain and discomfort in people with chronic neck issues and those recovering from injuries. 

Cervical pillows like these are ideal for back sleepers. The design molds perfectly to the shape of your head and neck, providing cushioning just where it's needed. However, some side sleepers find it less suitable, indicating that it may not provide the optimal neck alignment they need.

Many users have noted the versatility of the pillow, finding it not only conducive to a good night's sleep but also comfortable for activities like reading or using electronic devices in bed. Based on my experience, I would agree. I like to lie on my back while reading and this was the perfect accompaniment.

The organic materials, including the latex and the organic cotton pillow cover, are fully certified and free of harmful toxins. Some people noted a slight odor on unboxing, meaning it needed airing out before use - although this was not my experience.

For those transitioning from memory foam to natural latex, the Turmerry pillow represents a significant improvement. Its ability to maintain shape and offer consistent support throughout the night is a game changer.

Size: Standard or Queen
Loft: 5.5" or 5.75"
Firmness: Soft
Shape: Traditional
Temperature Regulating: Yes
Breathable: Yes
Hypoallergenic: Yes
Certifications: GOTS, MADE SAFE®, UL/GREENGUARD® Certified
Materials: Organic cotton fabric and GOLS or FSC Certified latex
Warranty: 1-year limited
Returns: 100-night trial with free returns

The Naturepedic Organic Solid Latex Pillow is a delightful blend of softness and support. It's the softest pillow I tested, but still offers the required head support to help cradle your neck and spine.

It significantly alleviates neck pain and adapts well to both side and back sleeping positions. Like most of Naturepedic's organic bedding and sleep products, this is made from 100% certified non-toxic materials, with no polyurethane or chemical flame retardants in sight.

Some people may find it too soft, so if you prefer firmer pillows, the Avocado would be a better choice. Its plushness, while comfortable, may not provide enough support for everyone, especially larger or heavier individuals.

However, if you prefer a soft pillow butt still want a supportive feel, this is a very attractive option.

Size: Queen or King
Loft: Standard (4-5”) or High (6-7”)
Firmness: Medium-firm
Shape: Traditional
Temperature Regulating: No
Breathable: Yes
Hypoallergenic: Yes
Certifications: Fair Trade Certified
Materials: Shredded natural latex core, organic cotton cover, microdenier fiber fill layer
Warranty: 1-year limited
Returns: 45-day free return policy

The Saatva Natural Latex Pillow has a choice of lofts with the standard size (which actually feels quite thin) being perfect for stomach sleepers.

It effectively relieves neck pain and provides a luxurious sleeping experience, akin to high-end hotel pillows. There's also a removable outer layer which is machine washable (although the shredded latex fill is not).

However, its lack of organic certifications and the use of the microdenier fiber fill layer may be a concern for those prioritizing fully organic products. This aspect compares less favorably to other pillows we've reviewed, which boast complete organic materials and certifications. 

If you like the idea of this type of pillow but want one that's fully organic, I would recommend the Plushbeds option.

Despite this, the Saatva pillow's durability, coolness, and customer service satisfaction make it a notable option for neck pain relief.

Size: Standard, Queen, King
Loft: Adjustable
Firmness: Soft, Medium or Firm
Shape: Contour with a half-seam for head dip and neck support
Temperature Regulating: No
Breathable: Yes
Hypoallergenic: Yes
Certifications: GOTS Certified Organic Cotton
Materials: Organic cotton fiber with organic cotton sateen casing
Warranty: None
Returns: None

The White Lotus Home GOTS Organic Cotton Pillows, with their contour design, promise a unique balance of comfort and support for the neck. 

Made from organic cotton, they offer a natural, hypoallergenic alternative to synthetic materials. It's also latex-free, so if you have an allergy even to natural latex then this could be the perfect pillow for you.

The pillow's adjustable nature allows customization to individual preferences and sleeping positions. I certainly found it comfortable, if perhaps a little too soft for my tastes.

One negative aspect is that there's an absence of testimonials from other customers here. So although this was good for me and my family, I've not been able to contact anyone else to find out how well this works for a wider range of sleeping styles and body shapes.

That said, if you suffer from neck pain and also want to avoid an organic latex pillow, then this and the next product on my list are both well worth a look.

Size: Small (4" x 12"), Medium (5" x 14"), or Large (6" x 16")
Loft: Adjustable, based on filling
Firmness: Firm (Buckwheat) or Soft (Millet)
Shape: Cylindrical neck roll
Temperature Regulating: No
Breathable: Yes
Hypoallergenic: Yes
Certifications: Not Certified
Materials: Organic buckwheat or millet hull filling, zippered organic cotton shell
Warranty: None
Returns: 14-days

I recently tried the Bean Products WheatDreamz Neck Roll Pillow and found it quite distinct from the other pillows we've discussed. Its cylindrical shape is designed to offer targeted support and restore your natural neck curve while you sleep. It's surprisingly effective for both side and back sleepers.

You get a choice of fillings to suit your taste. Opt for either the millet (softer) or organic buckwheat hulls (firmer) to provide a unique sleeping experience. 

Unlike the more traditional or contoured shapes of the latex pillows, this neck roll offers a malleable and customizable feel. It's particularly effective for those who require specific, targeted neck support, like back sleepers, or for therapeutic use. 

Some people might find that the unique shape of this pillow takes some getting used to at first, but most people will do so in time.

As well as providing targeted support, you can also use this for watching TV in bed, reading, or as a handy travel pillow. For the price, it's well worth a try.

How to Choose The Right Organic Pillow if You Suffer From Neck Pain

Choosing the best new pillow shouldn't be that complicated, but with the number of options on the market these days it can sometimes feel that way! And if you're looking for the right pillow to help relieve your neck and shoulder pain, you can't afford to get it wrong.

This quick buyer's guide lists the factors I considered when finalizing my list of recommendations and will help you find the perfect options for you and your family.

Size

Choose a size that comfortably supports your head and neck without extending too far beyond your shoulders. An oversized pillow can cause misalignment, exacerbating neck pain.

Shape

Contoured or cervical pillows are designed to provide enhanced neck support. A contour pillow with a dip for the head and a raised area for the neck can help maintain proper spinal alignment.

Even without a contoured design, natural latex materials, and adjustable filling can help in maintaining proper spinal alignment and offering the necessary support to alleviate neck pain.

Loft

The loft of a pillow, its height, should be tailored to different sleeping positions to keep your neck aligned with your spine:

  • Side Sleepers: Need a higher loft to fill the gap between the neck and the mattress, keeping the spine straight.
  • Back Sleepers: Benefit from a medium loft to support the natural curve of the neck without pushing the head too far forward.
  • Stomach Sleepers: Should use a low loft to prevent the neck from bending backward, which can strain muscles.
  • Combination Sleepers: May prefer an adjustable loft (such as shredded latex) to accommodate varying positions.

Firmness

  • Soft Pillows: May cause the head to sink too deeply, misaligning the neck with the spine. This can increase stress on neck muscles and lead to pain or discomfort. They're generally not recommended for neck pain sufferers, as they lack the necessary support. There are some good options above if you prefer a softer feel but still want to maintain adequate support.
  • Medium to Firm Pillows: Provide better support for the neck and head. They help maintain proper alignment of the cervical spine, which is essential to reduce or prevent neck pain.

The right level of firmness keeps the head at a neutral height, aligning it with the spine, and minimizes the bending or straining of the neck muscles.

Materials

Traditional pillows made from synthetic materials - including synthetic latex, polyurethane foam, and polyester fiber - can all contain various chemicals and flame retardants. These can emit harmful substances including VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) which you breathe in while you sleep. They have been shown to cause a variety of health issues, including breathing difficulties, allergies, asthma, reproductive issues, and even cancer.

Needless to say, you should avoid any bedding made from these materials at all costs.

Organic materials, by their nature, contain only natural fibers that were grown without the use of chemical pesticides and fertilizers. This results in a high quality final product that does not harm your health.

Hypoallergenic Properties

If you're prone to allergies, hypoallergenic materials can prevent allergic reactions.

Allergic reactions can exacerbate neck pain primarily through the inflammatory response. When a person has an allergic reaction, their body releases histamines and other chemicals, causing inflammation. This inflammation can lead to increased sensitivity and pain in the neck area.

To make things worse, allergic reactions often lead to restless sleep or frequent waking, which can exacerbate neck pain due to a lack of proper rest and constant repositioning. Therefore, using hypoallergenic materials in pillows can be beneficial for those with allergies and neck pain.

Most organic materials are naturally hypoallergenic. Synthetic materials are not.

Breathability and Temperature Regulation

A breathable pillow allows air to circulate through its material, preventing heat build-up and moisture retention. This is primarily achieved by the material it is made from, which keeps the pillow cool and dry. This means you wake less frequently, and get a better quality of sleep.

If a pillow is temperature-regulating, it means it is specifically designed to either absorb body heat or provide a cooling effect to maintain a consistent temperature throughout the night.

Certifications

Certifications from respected third-party organizations are a good way to verify the authenticity of non-toxic pillows.

They show that the product is made from genuinely organic and natural materials and that it is free from harmful substances.

  • Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS): Ensures organic status of textiles, from harvesting of raw materials through environmentally and socially responsible manufacturing.
  • Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS): Specifically for latex products, certifying the organic status of latex and ensuring sustainable and ethical manufacturing processes.
  • OEKO-Tex Standard 100: Tests for harmful substances in textiles, ensuring product safety for consumers.
  • GREENGUARD Certification: Indicates low chemical emissions, promoting healthier indoor air quality.
  • CertiPUR-US®: Certifies foam is made without certain harmful chemicals and meets standards for emissions and durability.
  • MADE SAFE®: Signifies products are made without ingredients known to harm human health, animals, or ecosystems.

Warranty and Returns

Most pillows have a lifespan of around 3 years, so a warranty that covers all or part of that time can give you peace of mind. It also serves as an indication that the manufacturer is confident in the quality of their finished product.

If you're unsure about what type of pillow you need and want to try it out before you commit, a return policy or sleep trial is also advantageous.

This isn't always offered on pillows for hygiene reasons, but some brands do. So it can be a great way to test out different firmnesses or shapes for yourself and see which one works for your body shape and sleep style.

What to Avoid

People who suffer from acute or chronic neck pain should generally avoid the following types of pillows:

  • Extremely Soft or Overstuffed Pillows: These can lead to the head sinking too far in, misaligning the neck and spine.
  • Very Flat or Worn-Out Pillows: These offer little to no support, causing the neck to bend unnaturally.
  • Wrong Size for Sleeping Position: A pillow that's too high or too low for your preferred sleeping position can strain your neck muscles.
  • Pillows with Non-Supportive Materials: Avoid materials that don't maintain their shape or provide enough support throughout the night.

As mentioned earlier, you should also avoid pillows made from polyurethane foam, polyester, or synthetic latex. This is because of their impact on your respiratory health and the environmental impact of the manufacturing process.

Top Tips to Prevent Neck & Shoulder Pain

If you find yourself waking up with sore neck and shoulders, these tips can help alleviate mild to moderate symptoms.

  • Use a supportive pillow that aligns with your sleeping position.
  • Maintain a neutral sleeping posture; align your head, neck, and spine.
  • Consider a pillow between your legs if you're a side sleeper. The Bean Products cylindrical buckwheat pillow is particularly good for this.
  • Stretch gently before bed and upon waking.
  • Ensure your mattress offers adequate support and pressure relief. Getting a lumbar support mattresses can help prevent a sore neck as well as a bad back.
  • Avoid sleeping on your stomach if possible.

It is important to note that chronic, severe neck pain could have other more serious causes such as disc degeneration or arthritis.

If symptoms persist after following these tips, consult your doctor.

The Final Word

Your pillow can play an important role in curing your stiff neck, providing you pick the right one!

I've picked out several different types of organic pillows that can help, with options that are suitable for any body type or sleeping position.

These products do cost a few bucks more than regular pillows. But when you wake up refreshed and pain-free after a restful, unbroken night's sleep, I'm confident you'll agree it was worth every penny.

James Miller
James Miller
James is an environmentalist, sustainability expert and senior editor at TheRoundup, specializing in testing non-toxic, organic and eco-friendly products. James, his wife and two daughters believe in chemical-free and zero-waste living. They aim to leave the planet in a better state than we found it, for future generations to enjoy.

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