Tired of waking up sweaty or constantly flipping your pillow to find the cool side?
If you often feel hot or uncomfortable at night, a cooling pillow might be the answer. These pillows are made with special materials like gel-infused memory foam, breathable fabrics, & moisture-wicking covers to keep you cool & dry.
Whether you’re a hot sleeper, dealing with neck pain, or looking for extra support during pregnancy, this guide will help you find the right cooling pillow for your needs.
Why Use a Cooling Pillow?
Cooling pillows offer several benefits that contribute to better sleep quality:
- Temperature Regulation: They dissipate heat keeping you cool throughout the night.
- Pain Relief: Ergonomic designs support the neck & spine, alleviating discomfort.
- Improved Sleep Quality: By maintaining an optimal temperature, they reduce night sweats & sleep disturbances.
- Hypoallergenic Properties: Ensuring they’re free from harmful chemicals & made with materials resistant to allergens, dust mites & bacteria.
- Durable Material: Pillows are crafted from durable materials for lasting comfort and support.
Types of Cooling Pillows Explained
Understanding the different types of cooling pillows can help you choose the one that best suits your sleeping style and preferences:
|
Type |
Material |
Best For |
Cooling Mechanism |
|
Memory Foam |
Gel-infused memory foam |
Neck/back pain sufferers |
Heat-dissipating gel layers |
|
Down Alternative |
Hypoallergenic synthetic fill |
Allergy-prone individuals |
Breathable, moisture-wicking |
|
Latex |
Natural latex |
Eco-conscious sleepers |
Ventilation holes for airflow |
|
Sustainable wood fibers |
Sensitive skin users |
Moisture-wicking, breathable |
|
|
Dual-Sided |
Gel & traditional materials |
All-season use |
Flip for cool/warm sides |
|
Cooling gel layers or inserts |
Hot sleepers & night sweaters |
Direct cool-to-touch, rapid heat relief |
Features to Consider When Choosing a Cooling Pillow

When selecting a cooling pillow, consider the following features to ensure optimal comfort and support:
- Cooling Technology: Gel-infused, phase-change materials, or breathable fabrics.
- Firmness Level: Soft, medium, or firm, depending on personal preference and sleep position.
- Adjustability: Removable or adjustable fill to customize loft and firmness.
- Material: Hypoallergenic, sustainable, or specific materials like memory foam or latex.
- Size and Shape: Standard, queen, king, or body pillow sizes; contoured or traditional shapes.
- Care Instructions: Machine washable covers or entire pillows for easy maintenance.
Best Cooling Pillows by Sleeping Position

For Side, Back & Stomach Sleepers
- Recommendation: Beckham Hotel Collection Down Alternative Bedding Gel Cooling Pillow
-
Reason: Experience personalized comfort, superior neck and body support, and wake up refreshed every morning. Whether you're a back, stomach, or side sleeper, these pillows are ideal for all.
Specialized Cooling Pillows for Specific Needs
Pregnancy Cooling Pillow

- Recommendation: Mom Cozy Huggable U-Shaped Maternity Body Pillow
-
Reason: Offers full-body support and cooling comfort for expectant mothers.
Neck Cooling Pillow
- Recommendation: Elviros Cervical Memory Foam Pillow
-
Reason: Ergonomic design supports neck alignment and reduces pain.
Double-Sided Cooling Pillow
- Recommendation: Slumber Cloud UltraCool Pillow
- Reason: Features advanced cooling technology that maintains temperature regulation on both sides.
Hotel-Style & Long Cooling Pillows
- Hotel Cooling Pillows: Beckham Hotel Collection Gel Pillow offers luxurious comfort reminiscent of high-end hotels.
- Long Cooling Pillow: Mindful Design Cooling Memory Foam Body Pillow provides extended support for the entire body.
Extra Tips That Often Matter More Than the Pillow
If night sweats are frequent, comfort improvements usually come from stacking small changes:
- Cooler room temperature + fan airflow
- Moisture-wicking sleepwear & bedding
- Breathable pillow protector & pillowcase fabrics
How to Maintain & Care for Cooling Pillow

Proper maintenance extends the lifespan of your cooling pillow:
- Wash the cover as directed (most are machine washable)
- Use a breathable protector if you sweat at night
- Let foams air out after washing the cover
- Replace when support is noticeably reduced (timing varies by materials & use)
FAQs About Cooling Pillows
Do cooling pillows actually stop night sweats?
Cooling pillows are generally designed to improve comfort & reduce heat buildup at the pillow surface. They don’t address medical causes of night sweats.
What pillow material stays coolest?
Many hot sleepers prefer breathable latex, ventilated designs, or adjustable shredded fills paired with a cooling cover. PCM covers are often described as temperature-regulating rather than “cold.”
Are cooling pillows helpful for menopause night sweats?
Some people use cooling pillows as a comfort tool for heat-related sleep disruption. If menopause symptoms are affecting sleep regularly, consider discussing options with a clinician.
Do cooling pillows lose effectiveness?
Some cooling effects depend on surface fabrics & how quickly heat builds up. Over time, pillow performance can change due to wear, compression, and washing.
What’s the fastest way to make a pillow feel cooler tonight?
Try a breathable pillowcase/protector and increase airflow in the room (fan, lighter bedding).