Pillow Materials and Features
Breathable Washable Pillows for Allergy Sufferers
7 picks compared
6 min read
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The short answerFor allergy prone sleepers, the Coop Home Goods Eden, the Brooklyn Bedding HydroCool, and the Sleep Number PlushComfort are top choices. They offer breathable, washable covers and hypoallergenic fills.
?How we pickedWe compare published specifications, safety certifications and thousands of verified owner reviews, and we do not physically test every unit. Read the full process in our review methodology.
Coop Home Goods Eden
★★★★★ 4.8 / 5 best overall
The Eden is a shredded memory foam pillow with a breathable bamboo-derived cover. You can adjust the fill to your preferred loft. The entire pillow is machine washable and dryer safe.
Fill Shredded memory foamCover Bamboo-derived rayonWashable Full pillowCertifications GREENGUARD Gold, CertiPUR-US
- Adjustable loft
- Full pillow washable
- Cooling cover
- May have initial odor
- Needs fluffing
Brooklyn Bedding HydroCool
★★★★★ 4.6 / 5 best value
The HydroCool pillow combines a breathable cover with a cooling gel layer. It has a medium firm feel that suits most sleepers. The cover is removable and machine washable.
Fill Polyester fiberCover HydroCool fabricWashable Removable coverFirmness Medium
- Cooling gel layer
- Machine washable cover
- Budget friendly
- Not adjustable
- May be too soft for some
Sleep Number PlushComfort
★★★★★ 4.5 / 5 best for side sleepers
The PlushComfort pillow features a plush microfiber fill that cradles the head and neck. Its breathable cotton cover is removable and washable. It provides consistent support for side sleeping.
Fill MicrofiberCover CottonWashable Removable coverFirmness Plush
- Soft yet supportive
- Breathable cotton cover
- Good for side sleepers
- May flatten over time
- Not adjustable
Best for: best for side sleepers
Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Cloud
★★★★★ 4.7 / 5 best for pressure relief
The TEMPUR-Cloud pillow uses TEMPUR material that adapts to your shape. It has a breathable cover that zips off for washing. This pillow is ideal for those who need pressure relief.
Fill TEMPUR materialCover Removable, washableWashable Cover onlyFirmness Medium
- Excellent pressure relief
- Zippered cover
- Durable
Best for: best for pressure relief
Eli & Elm Side Sleeper Pillow
★★★★★ 4.6 / 5 best for neck pain
This pillow has a contoured shape that supports the neck and shoulders. It is made with a breathable, washable cover. The fill is a blend of polyester and rayon from bamboo.
Fill Polyester and rayonCover Bamboo blendWashable Removable coverShape Contoured
- Ergonomic contour
- Cooling cover
- Good for neck alignment
- May be too firm
- Cover only washable
Best for: best for neck pain
Avocado Green Pillow
★★★★★ 4.5 / 5 best organic
The Avocado Green Pillow is made with organic latex and cotton. It is naturally hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites. The cover is removable and machine washable.
Fill Organic latexCover Organic cottonWashable Removable coverCertifications GOTS, GREENGUARD Gold
- Organic materials
- Naturally hypoallergenic
- Supportive
MyPillow Premium
★★★★★ 4.4 / 5 best for back sleepers
The MyPillow Premium is filled with patented interlocking foam that you can adjust. It has a breathable cotton cover that is washable. This pillow is designed to keep your spine aligned.
Fill Interlocking foamCover CottonWashable Cover onlyFirmness Adjustable
- Adjustable fill
- Breathable cotton cover
- Good for back sleepers
- Some find it too soft
- Cover only washable
Best for: best for back sleepers
We focused on materials like latex, gel, and polyester that resist dust mites. Washability of the entire pillow or cover was a must. We also looked for certifications like GREENGUARD Gold.
What to Look For in a Breathable Washable Pillow
Breathability comes from the cover and the fill. Look for covers made of cotton, bamboo, or performance fabrics that wick moisture. The fill should allow air to circulate, like latex or shredded foam. Washability is crucial for allergy sufferers. Some pillows are fully washable, while others only have a removable cover. Check the care instructions before buying.
How to Choose the Right Pillow for Your Sleep Position
Side sleepers need a firmer, higher loft pillow to fill the space between the shoulder and neck. Back sleepers do well with a medium loft that supports the natural curve of the spine. Stomach sleepers should choose a soft, low loft pillow to avoid neck strain. Consider your sleeping position when selecting a pillow.
Understanding Hypoallergenic Materials
Hypoallergenic materials resist common allergens like dust mites and mold. Latex is naturally hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites. Memory foam is dense but can be treated to be hypoallergenic. Polyester fibers are often hypoallergenic but may not be as breathable. Look for certifications like GREENGUARD Gold to ensure low chemical emissions.
Washing and Care Tips for Allergy Sufferers
Wash your pillow every three to six months, or more often if you have allergies. Use hot water and a gentle detergent. Dry thoroughly to prevent mold and mildew. If the pillow has a removable cover, wash that more frequently. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Questions people ask
What is the best breathable pillow for allergy sufferers?
The Coop Home Goods Eden is a top choice because it is fully washable and has a breathable bamboo cover. It also has adjustable fill for personalized comfort.
Can I wash a memory foam pillow?
Some memory foam pillows are fully washable, like the Coop Home Goods Eden. Others only have a washable cover. Check the label before washing.
How often should I wash my pillow if I have allergies?
Wash your pillow every three to six months. If you have allergies, you may want to wash it more often. Also wash the pillowcase weekly.
What materials are best for allergy prone sleepers?
Latex and polyester are naturally hypoallergenic. Bamboo-derived rayon covers are breathable and resist dust mites. Avoid down feathers if you are allergic.
Is a pillow with a washable cover enough?
A washable cover helps, but washing the entire pillow is better for removing allergens. If you can only wash the cover, do it regularly.
Which pillow is best for side sleepers with allergies?
The Sleep Number PlushComfort offers plush support and a washable cotton cover. It is a good option for side sleepers.
Are organic pillows better for allergies?
Organic pillows like the Avocado Green Pillow are made with natural materials that are less likely to trigger allergies. They are also free from harsh chemicals.
Can a pillow be both breathable and supportive?
Yes, many pillows combine breathable materials with supportive designs. The Brooklyn Bedding HydroCool has a cooling gel layer and a breathable cover.
What is the difference between a pillow cover and a pillowcase?
A pillow cover is part of the pillow and is removable for washing. A pillowcase is a separate layer that goes over the pillow. Both should be washed regularly.
How do I know if a pillow is hypoallergenic?
Look for labels that say hypoallergenic or check for certifications like GREENGUARD Gold. Materials like latex and polyester are often hypoallergenic.
The bottom lineSo which one?
For most allergy prone sleepers, the Coop Home Goods Eden offers the best combination of breathability, washability, and adjustability. If you prefer a cooler sleep, the Brooklyn Bedding HydroCool is a great value. Consider your sleep position and material preferences when making a choice.