If you often wake up feeling hot or find yourself flipping your pillow to the cooler side, a cooling pillow could make all the difference. Designed to regulate temperature and reduce heat build-up around your head and neck, these pillows help create a fresher, more comfortable sleep environment.
But how do cooling pillows actually work, what materials are best, and how long do they last?
How do cooling pillows work?
Cooling pillows use breathable and sometimes specially engineered materials to draw heat away from your head and improve airflow while you sleep. They work through several mechanisms:
-
Heat transfer: Some pillows include gel-infused or temperature-regulating layers that disperse heat for a balanced, cooling effect.
Airflow and ventilation: Fillings like shredded latex or moisture-wicking fibres allow air to circulate freely, preventing heat from getting trapped.
-
Moisture wicking: Plant-based fabrics such as eucalyptus silk (TENCEL™ Lyocell) naturally draw moisture away from the skin, helping you stay cool and dry.
-
Cool-to-the-touch covers: Soft, breathable covers made from eucalyptus or organic cotton feel instantly fresh against your skin, without the need for synthetic cooling gels.
So, do cooling pillows actually work? The simple answer is, yes. The Oxford Academic and Sleep Research Society recently published a study on the use of pillows designed to help users feel cool. They tracked the sleep of 29 healthy adults across 1175 days - and found the participants reported improved sleep quality. People found the pillows helped them stay, in their own words, ‘comfortable and cool’.
Cooling pillows are especially helpful for people who run warm at night, those who experience night sweats, or anyone navigating temperature changes related to menopause.
They can make a meaningful difference in both comfort and sleep quality, and their effects can be enhanced by sleeping in a cool, well-ventilated room.
What are the best materials for a cooling pillow?
When choosing the best pillow to keep you cool, focus on natural materials that promote airflow and temperature regulation. At Ethical Bedding, our designs are created with this in mind - using plant-based fibres that are breathable, moisture-wicking, and luxuriously soft.
Fill materials
-
Eucalyptus fibre: Naturally breathable and silky, it draws moisture away from your skin and regulates body temperature throughout the night.
-
Organic cotton: Soft and crisp, it allows air to circulate and prevents overheating.
-
Natural latex: Offers gentle support and natural cooling properties, making it a great alternative to dense foams.
-
Bamboo blend: Smooth, sustainable, and ideal for hot sleepers who prefer lightweight comfort.
Cover fabrics
-
Eucalyptus silk (TENCEL™ Lyocell): Our signature fabric is luxuriously smooth, naturally hypoallergenic, and designed to keep you cool and comfortable all night long.
-
Bamboo viscose: Known for its natural breathability and moisture control, this is an ideal option for warm sleepers.
-
Organic cotton percale: Crisp, light, and airy. Perfect for those who prefer a classic, cool finish.
These natural materials outperform synthetic ‘cooling gels’ because they help your body regulate its own temperature, rather than providing a short-lived cooling sensation.
How long do cooling pillows last?
Like any pillow, cooling pillows eventually lose their structure and effectiveness. High-quality, natural pillows such as those made with eucalyptus or organic cotton typically last two to five years, depending on care.
Foam-based options may lose their cooling ability sooner, while plant-based fillings retain breathability and comfort for longer. If your pillow no longer feels supportive, or you’re waking up warmer than usual, it might be time for an upgrade.
What about cooling pillowcases?
Even the best cooling pillow benefits from the right cover. A cooling pillowcase can enhance breathability and wick moisture away from your skin for a fresher feel all night.
Try pillowcases crafted from eucalyptus silk (TENCEL™ Lyocell) or bamboo. Both are silky-smooth, hypoallergenic, and help regulate temperature naturally.
If you’re experiencing night sweats or menopause-related temperature shifts, pairing a cooling pillowcase with a temperature-regulating sheet set can help balance your sleep environment and keep you comfortable.
Ready to Sleep Cooler?
Upgrade your sleep setup with our range of temperature-regulating bedding, designed for hot sleepers and those managing night sweats or menopause. Enjoy a naturally cool, breathable, and luxurious night’s sleep every night.
