Best Latex Pillows

Best Latex Pillows UK (2024)

Last updated: 16.12.2024 Reading time: 7 Min.

Introducing the perfect pillow that does grow on trees - latex pillows!

Sustainably harvested, these durable pillows are changing the game. 🌱

But how do they compare to memory foam?

And are you curious about the feel of sleeping on a latex pillow? 🤔

Don't worry, we've got you covered.

Below are our top picks with an in-depth guide on how to choose the best latex pillow UK.

So, let's dive in! 👇

Woman sleeping on pillow

Best latex pillow UK

Best For Side Sleepers

Dunlopillo Super Comfort Latex Pillow

The Dunlopillo Super Comfort Latex pillow is made with natural latex for advanced pressure relief.
  • Natural Dunlopillo latex
  • Firm support
  • Washable cover 

Tell me more about the Dunlopillo Super Comfort Latex Pillow

The Dunlopillo Super Comfort Latex pillow is the best latex pillow for side sleepers

It's designed with a deep profile to support the space between the head and shoulder when resting on your side. 

This latex pillow for side sleepers also has firm support, encouraging the head to stay lifted to help the neck align with the spine

This Dunlopillo pillow's light and bouncy texture perfectly adapts to your head shape, offering essential pressure relief.

The Dunlopillo Serenity pillow is also available in a slimmer profile for back and stomach sleepers.

This pillow is made from Dunlopillo latex, which is antibacterial and also discourages dust mites.

Reasons to buy

5-year guarantee

Excellent support for side sleepers 

Sustainable materials 

Reasons to avoid

No sleep trial 

Best For Back Sleepers

Relyon Superior Comfort Slim Latex Pillow

The Relyon Superior Comfort Slim Latex pillow is made with 100% Relyon latex and includes a 5-year guarantee.
  • 100% natural Relyon latex
  • Medium feel
  • Washable cover 

Tell me more about the Superior Comfort Slim Latex Pillow

The Relyon Superior Comfort Slim Latex pillow is the best natural latex pillow for back sleepers. 

These Relyon pillows feature a slimmer design, with 100% natural Relyon latex providing perfectly balanced medium support.

Relyon latex is the same as Dunlopillo latex, made with an open cell structure for enhanced breathability. 

Sleep with peace of mind as this pillow cradles your head, providing immediate pressure relief with bounce-back technology to ensure it maintains its shape.

It's also a great choice for allergy sufferers, with hypoallergenic properties contributing to a healthier sleep environment.

The Relyon Superior Comfort Deep Latex pillow is also available for side sleepers who require a deeper loft pillow. 

Reasons to buy

5-year guarantee

Ideal loft & firmness for back sleepers

Next-day delivery

Reasons to avoid

Quite expensive 

No trial period

Best For Stomach Sleepers

Hypnos Low Profile Latex Pillow

The Hypnos Low Profile Latex pillow is made with sustainably sourced latex and includes a washable cover.
  • Sustainably sourced latex
  • Soft feel
  • 100% recyclable 

Tell me more about the Hypnos Low Profile Latex Pillow

The Hypnos Low Profile Latex Pillow is our top choice for stomach sleepers.

The low profile design helps align the spine for a comfortable night's sleep.

This pillow offers pressure-relieving properties, easing aches and pains by providing soothing support for the head, neck, and shoulders.

Made from natural latex derived from rubber trees, these Hypnos latex pillows are hypoallergenic and dust mite resistant.

The pillow's breathable fillings help maintain freshness and a cool temperature.

The Hypnos Latex pillow features a super soft, velour cover that is machine-washable. 

Reasons to buy

Machine-washable cover

Royal Warrant from Queen Elizabeth II

Free next-day delivery 

Reasons to avoid

Only a 1-year guarantee

It may be too soft for side sleepers 

Best For Side Sleepers

Dunlopillo Hybrid Side Sleeper Pillow

The Dunlopillo Hybrid Side Sleeper pillow combines honeycomb latex and hollowfibre.
  • Honeycomb latex & hollowfibre 
  • Firm support 
  • Washable cover

Tell me more about the Dunlopillo Hybrid Side Sleeper Pillow

The Dunlopillo Hybrid Side Sleeper Pillow, exclusively available at Bensons for Beds, blends comfort with innovative design.

It has firm support thanks to its cosy hollowfibre and latex filling, ideal for maintaining spinal alignment for side sleepers.

The pillow's ventilated honeycomb latex outer layer enhances breathability and pressure relief, ensuring a cool night's sleep.

Additionally, its natural organic cotton cover is not only breathable but also removable and washable, enhancing hygiene and convenience.

The pillow is naturally anti-allergenic and suitable for allergy sufferers.

Reasons to buy

2-year guarantee

Naturally anti-allergenic

More affordable than 100% latex pillows

Reasons to avoid

No sleep trial 

It may be too firm for back and front sleepers

What is a latex pillow?

Natural latex is derived from rubber trees that grow in tropical climate plantations, including South-East Asia, parts of Africa, and South America.

One of the benefits of using natural latex is that trees aren't harmed during the manufacturing process.

However, not all latex is natural.

Synthetic latex is made from petroleum compounds and mimics the properties of natural latex.

In this article, we'll be focusing on the advantages of natural latex.

The benefits of latex pillows

Some of the best pillows for sustainability are made with natural latex.

As well as being harvested from trees safely, latex is also 100% biodegradable, making it a highly sustainable choice. ♻️

Latex being harvested
Latex can be harvested without harming the tree.

Latex mattresses and pillows offer several advantages, such as moulding around the head and shoulders, alleviating aches and encouraging spine and neck alignment.

They usually have a latex core designed with breathable pinholes, making them an excellent cooling pillow option.

Latex pillows quickly bounce back to their natural shape and don’t go flat like synthetic hollowfibre or microfibre pillows.

Natural latex pillows are fairly durable, with some lasting as long as 10 years. ⌛

Another aspect to consider is their eco-friendliness, as latex is sustainably sourced and 100% biodegradable.

How to choose a latex pillow

Choosing the perfect pillow can be just as challenging as finding the right mattress, with factors like budget, firmness, pillow loft, and size all coming into play.

Below, we'll discuss some key considerations for selecting a latex pillow. 👇

Firmness

Firmness preferences vary from person to person, with some enjoying a solid pillow while others preferring a softer, more cushioned feel. ☁️

These natural rubber pillows generally have a squishy, bouncy quality, setting them apart from other types of pillows. ⛹️‍♀️

They are also available in different firmness levels.

Side sleepers typically need firm latex pillows with ample support to lift the head and neck.

On the other hand, back sleepers do better with medium firmness for a slight sink.

Person back sleeping on pillow
Back sleepers require a medium pillow to keep the neck straight.

Stomach sleepers require a soft latex pillow that envelops the head.

Latex pillows are typically too firm for stomach sleepers, but a low loft can also improve comfort.

We’ll go into more detail about the pillow loft below. 👀

Loft

Unlike firmness, loft refers to a pillow's depth.

While latex pillows usually come in a standard size, they are available in different thicknesses known as “slim” and “low” loft or “deep” and “high” loft.

Instead of stacking lots of pillows, finding one with the perfect loft for your sleeping position is better.

Typically we recommend:

  • High loft for side sleepers
  • Medium loft for back sleepers
  • Low loft for stomach sleepers

But we all come in different shapes and sizes. 👩‍👩‍👧‍👦

While most side sleepers benefit from a high loft pillow to fill the gap between the head and shoulder, those with narrower shoulders may feel more comfortable on a lower pillow.

Pillow alignment graphic
Your pillow should encourage neutral spine and neck alignment.

Ultimately, your pillow should feel comfortable in your regular sleeping position and encourage the neck to align neutrally with the spine. 📏

Budget

Latex pillows are not the cheapest option and can, in fact, be among the priciest.

But latex is a high-quality, sustainable, and 100% natural resource.

While latex pillows are more expensive, their longevity compared to synthetic pillows makes them a worthwhile long-term investment. 💰

Man sitting on coins
Latex pillows are expensive but worthwhile.

For example, spending £100 on a latex pillow might seem excessive, but with a lifespan of up to 5 years, it's more cost-effective than frequently replacing cheaper hollowfibre pillows that go flat or lumpy. 🥟

However, investing in an expensive pillow without knowing if it's right for you can be risky.

Unfortunately, many latex pillows don't come with sleep trials.

But memory foam pillows, which are slightly cheaper and often include trials, are a good synthetic alternative of similar quality.

If you're set on latex, you can also consider a pillow that combines synthetic and natural latex to make it more budget-friendly.

The Slumberland Latex Blend pillow combines hollowfibre and latex for a more affordable price.

BUY HYBRID LATEX PILLOW£ 64.99

Cover

Latex pillows have various cover options from synthetic materials like polyester or natural fibres like cotton. 🌱

Synthetic covers are more affordable, while cotton covers offer superior breathability and moisture-wicking properties.

Washing pillow cover
Some latex pillows include a removable, washable cover.

Some covers are fully washable, while others are non-removable.

A latex pillow with a hypoallergenic, washable cover is recommended for allergy sufferers, as this helps eliminate dust and bacteria build-up over time. 🦠

Check out our favourite latex pillows with washable covers:

Are latex pillows safe?

Are latex pillows safe for a good night's sleep?

The answer is a resounding yes!

Organic latex is safe for you to use and highly sustainable, making it a safer choice for the environment too. 🌍

Latex pillow benefits
Latex pillows are a healthier choice for many.

This hypoallergenic material is excellent at repelling dust and other allergens, ensuring you can sleep easily without worrying about those pesky irritants.

Latex is natural and usually chemical-free, unlike synthetic pillows.

However, double-checking with the manufacturer is always a good idea to ensure your latex pillow hasn't been treated with additional chemicals. 🧪

A word of caution: If you have a latex allergy, it's best to steer clear of latex pillows and mattresses to avoid adverse reactions.

Can you wash a latex pillow?

Most latex pillows aren't suitable for machine washing or drying, as these methods can damage the material and potentially void your warranty. ❌

Do not wash graphic
Latex pillows are not washable.

Instead, if your latex pillow encounters a spill or stain, gently blot the area with a wet cloth dipped in diluted mild detergent, then allow the pillow to air dry near an open window. 🪟

For more thorough cleaning, consider sprinkling baking soda over the pillow and letting it sit for an hour before vacuuming the excess powder.

This will help refresh and deodorise your pillow.

Additionally, many latex pillows come with a washable cover, providing a convenient solution for easy cleaning. 🧼

Just pop the cover in the washing machine according to the care instructions.

We recommend using a pillow protector and washing your pillowcases regularly to maintain the cleanliness of your latex pillow.

Some pillowcases are even designed to enhance the cooling properties of latex.

Our favourite pillowcases and protectors for latex pillows:

How long does a latex pillow last?

You'll be pleased to know that latex pillows are built to last. 💪

With proper care and maintenance, a high-quality latex pillow will last 5 years, making them a fantastic investment in your sleep health.

Some latex pillows have been known to last as long as 10 years.

Their durability sets them apart from other pillow materials, which may need replacing more frequently.

Remember that your pillow's longevity can also depend on usage, pillow quality, and environmental conditions.

Man sleeping on latex pillow
You should get many years out of your latex pillow.

To ensure you get the most out of your latex pillow, it's essential to follow care instructions and protect it with a washable pillow protector as well as a pillowcase.

These latex pillows include a 5-year guarantee:

Latex vs memory foam pillow

Latex and memory foam are often regarded as the highest-quality pillow and mattress materials. ✨

This can make it difficult to choose between a latex or memory foam pillow.

We’ve broken down the key differences below:

Pillow type Differences
Latex

Can be synthetic or natural

Better airflow makes it cooler than memory foam

Responds to pressure quickly (bouncier material)

Expensive

Sustainably sourced and 100% biodegradable

Organic and non-toxic

Memory foam

Synthetic material only

Warmer than latex

Responds to pressure slowly (more liquid-like material)

Can be expensive, but cheaper options are available

Can often be recycled but is not as sustainable as latex

Made with chemicals and non-organic materials

However, there are more similarities between latex and memory foam pillows than you might think.

Both latex and memory foam pillows are:

  • High-density pillows
  • Highly durable (although cheaper foams aren’t as durable)
  • Both hold shape over time and do not require fluffing
  • Hypoallergenic choice - excellent for allergy sufferers

We have some excellent memory foam pillows if you’re looking for a cheaper but great-quality alternative to latex.

Consider these top-rated memory foam pillows:

Are latex pillows good?

When choosing the perfect latex pillow, consider firmness, loft, cover, and budget. 😴

Latex pillows provide superior support and comfort and are a highly sustainable option.

They are an excellent choice for:

  • Side and back sleepers
  • Those looking for a high-quality pillow
  • The eco-conscious
  • Those looking for a long-lasting pillow
  • Those with no budgetary constraints

However, they may not be the best option for stomach sleepers, those who need a washable pillow, or those on a budget.

But if you’re looking for a high-quality pillow that lasts as long as possible, a latex pillow is a great choice! ✔️

Here’s a reminder of the best latex pillows UK:

Frequently asked questions

  • Do latex pillows soften over time?


    Latex pillows may experience a slight softening as they age

    This natural process occurs as the material loses some of its elasticity and resilience over time.

    However, this softening is minimal, and latex pillows retain their shape and support far better than many other pillow materials. 

    The durability of latex pillows is one of their key selling points, with some lasting up to 10 years.

    So, while you may notice a subtle change in your latex pillow's firmness over time, you can rest assured that it will continue to provide comfort and support for many years.

  • Are latex pillows good for your health?


    Latex pillows are organic and non-toxic, making them an excellent choice for those seeking a healthier pillow option. 

    They're made from sustainable natural materials and contain fewer chemicals than synthetic alternatives, like memory foam.

    Secondly, latex pillows are hypoallergenic, which means they naturally resist the growth of mould, bacteria, and dust mites. 

    This hygienic quality is especially beneficial for those with allergies or respiratory issues, as it helps create a cleaner sleep environment.

    Because of their hypoallergenic nature, we highly recommend latex foam pillows for individuals with allergies or sensitivities to common irritants

    However, it's important to note that if you have a latex allergy, you should avoid latex pillows to prevent adverse reactions. 

    Consider alternative hypoallergenic materials like memory foam pillows or bamboo pillows in such cases.

  • Are latex pillows good for neck pain?


    Latex pillows for neck pain are excellent for those seeking additional sleep support. 

    The latex material naturally conforms to the shape of your head and shoulders, helping to relieve pressure and promote proper neck support.

    Our latex pillow review recommends the best latex pillows UK, which provide the most support. 

    However, it's essential to understand that a latex pillow isn't a cure-all for medical problems or injuries. 

    If you're experiencing chronic neck pain, it's always best to consult a healthcare professional.

    If you're specifically looking for pillows designed to target neck pain, you can check out our article on the best pillows for neck pain.

  • Where to buy a latex pillow?


    Latex pillows aren’t the most widely available. 

    However, plenty of online retailers sell these organic latex pillow options. 

    Try the following retailers:

    If you are looking for a specific latex pillow, we recommend shopping online. 

    The Dunlopillo Serenity Deluxe latex pillow Argos is no longer available but can be bought via Amazon. 

    Our favourite latex pillow brands include Dunlopillo, Relyon and Hypnos

  • Do latex pillows smell?


    New latex pillows may have a slight rubber-like odour to them. 

    This is not surprising, considering latex pillows are derived from rubber trees. 

    However, it can be irritating to some people. 

    How to get rid of the latex smell from pillows

    The smell of your latex foam pillow should disappear after a few days once it has had some time to air out. 

    You could also help to get rid of this odour by sprinkling baking soda on your pillow and letting it rest for a few hours. 

    Afterwards, you can vacuum the powder and you should notice that the baking soda has absorbed some of the odour. 

    If you have a lavender pillow spray to hand, this may also help to mask some of the rubbery smell. 

  • What types of latex pillows are available?


    Generally speaking, there are two manufacturing processes for latex.

    These are known as Dunlop latex and Talalay latex.

    Dunlop latex is a dense, firm foam, whilst Talalay latex pillows are made with soft and fluffier latex.

    We go into more detail about these different processes in our latex mattress article.

Holly

Holly Matthews

Senior Content Writer

Holly has been a content writer at Sleep Hero UK since 2021. With an MA degree in literature and previous experience working at a leading UK bed retailer, she is committed to using her skills to guide others towards making better sleep choices.

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