When it comes to getting a good night’s sleep, having a supportive pillow is key. However, many people may not realize that the pillow they rest their head on every night could be filled with harsh chemicals and synthetic materials that are harmful to both their health and the environment.
To address this issue, many individuals are turning to eco-friendly pillows that are free of harmful chemicals and made from sustainable materials. These pillows not only provide the necessary support for the head and neck, but also offer benefits such as improved alignment and durability. In this article, we will explore the world of eco-friendly pillows and discuss the various options available for those who want to prioritize both their health and the environment.
A Power Nap Of The Most Eco-Friendly Pillows
For those looking for sustainable and organic pillows, the following brands offer eco-friendly options that are non-toxic and hypoallergenic.
1. PlushBeds
PlushBeds is a California-based sustainable bedding brand that offers a range of eco-friendly pillows, including king pillows, queen pillows, and standard pillows. Their products are made with GOLS-certified organic latex, cruelty-free down, and organic wool from local USA farms. The materials used are naturally dust mite and moisture resistant, making them perfect for those with allergies.
PlushBeds places an emphasis on ethical and sustainable supply chain practices. They use a transparent, factory-direct process and partner with a USA eco-friendly pillow factory that is both Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) and Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS) certified. They are also audited and certified by third-party sustainability and safety consultants. In addition, PlushBeds is a Green America Certified Business and member of the Sustainable Furnishings Council.
2. Nest Bedding
Nest Bedding is a family-owned, factory direct bedding business that offers non-toxic memory foam pillows in standard to king sizes. Their sustainable pillows are made with OEKO-TEX-certified latex foam or non-toxic CertiPUR-US®-certified shredded foam, both combined with some polyester fill. The pillows are protected by a soft organic cotton cover made with a combination of polyester and a miniscule percentage of spandex.
Nest Bedding has a Lifetime Renewal Exchange (LRE) program for mattresses and uses FSC-certified sources for their bamboo. Their mattresses are made in the USA, ensuring better labor practices as well as cutting shipping carbon emissions. While some products come with Fair Trade certification, fair trade pillows are not among them.
3. Naturepedic
Naturepedic is committed to supporting healthy and holistic lifestyles while also protecting the environment. They offer affordable eco-friendly pillows, including organic eco-friendly pillows for kids and adults. Their sustainable pillows are stuffed with OCS100-certified organic cotton and filled with non-GMO sugarcane PLA, shredded GOLS organic latex and PLA fiber, or pure organic natural latex for a more firm option.
Naturepedic partners with skilled Amish craftspeople for as much of their production as possible, and when needs can’t be met in the US, they work with GOTS certified Asian factories that adhere to strict ethical working standards. Their sustainability starts with organic materials and extends through product shipping (in FSC-certified materials) and end-of-life, at which point they offer a mattress recycling program.
4. Coyuchi
Coyuchi offers a range of organic pillows, including wool, down, and kapok options. Their sustainable pillows are made with GOTS-certified organic materials and are designed to be breathable and hypoallergenic. They also offer pillow protectors made with organic cotton.
Coyuchi is committed to sustainability and uses organic, non-GMO, and low-impact dyes in their products. They also offset their carbon emissions through carbon credits and partner with 1% for the Planet to donate 1% of their annual revenue to environmental causes.
5. Boll & Branch
Boll & Branch offers a range of organic pillows made with GOTS-certified organic cotton and down. Their sustainable pillows are designed to be breathable, hypoallergenic, and free of harmful chemicals.
Boll & Branch is committed to sustainability and uses organic, non-GMO, and low-impact dyes in their products. They also offset their carbon emissions through carbon credits and partner with 1% for the Planet to donate 1% of their annual revenue to environmental causes.
6. Cozy Earth
Cozy Earth offers a range of eco-friendly pillows made with bamboo and silk. Their sustainable pillows are designed to be hypoallergenic, breathable, and free of harmful chemicals.
Cozy Earth is committed to sustainability and uses renewable resources in their products. They also partner with Trees for the Future to plant a tree for every product sold.
7. SOL Organics
SOL Organics offers a range of organic pillows made with GOTS-certified organic cotton and down. Their sustainable pillows are designed to be breathable, hypoallergenic, and free of harmful chemicals.
SOL Organics is committed to sustainability and uses organic, non-GMO, and low-impact dyes in their products. They also offset their carbon emissions through carbon credits and partner with 1% for the Planet to donate 1% of their annual revenue to environmental causes.
8. Avocado
Avocado offers a range of eco-friendly pillows made with GOTS-certified organic cotton and natural latex. Their sustainable pillows are
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How We Found The Best Sustainable Pillows
When searching for the best sustainable pillows, it’s important to consider more than just comfort. The materials used in the pillows can have an impact on both the environment and our health. This section will explore the criteria used in selecting the best sustainable pillows.
Materials
Conventional cotton and synthetic pillows are not eco-friendly options due to the use of harmful chemicals such as pesticides, flame retardants, and formaldehyde. To avoid these chemicals, organic pillows made from materials such as organic cotton, linen, and natural latex are the best options. Responsibly-sourced down and organic wool are also good choices for those who prefer animal-based materials. For synthetic pillows, it’s important to look for certifications such as CertiPUR-US to ensure they are non-toxic.
Certifications such as Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS), and OEKO-TEX can also help in selecting sustainable pillows.
Supply Chain & Labor Practices
The textile industry has a history of human rights abuses, exploitation, and child labor. To avoid supporting these practices, it’s important to choose brands that prioritize transparency and traceability in their supply chain. Third-party certifications such as B-Corporation and Fair Trade can also help in selecting ethical brands.
Green Business Practices
In addition to sustainable materials and ethical labor practices, some brands go the extra mile in implementing green business practices. Carbon offset programs, reduced shipping emissions, and product recycling programs are just a few examples of how brands can reduce their environmental impact.
Community & Charitable Giving
Charitable giving is not a requirement for sustainable pillow brands, but it’s always a nice bonus. Brands that donate a portion of their profits or partner with non-profit organizations can make a positive impact in their communities.
Final Thoughts On Sustainable Pillows
When it comes to sustainable pillows, there are many factors to consider beyond just comfort. By choosing pillows made from eco-friendly materials, supporting ethical labor practices, and implementing green business practices, we can all contribute to a more sustainable future. Share this guide with friends and family to help them make more sustainable choices in their homes.
