Best Cooling Pillows 2025: Stay Cool and Sleep Better All Night

Ever wake up sweating at 2 a.m., flipping your pillow for the “cool side”? You’re not alone. According to the Sleep Foundation, around 40% of adults experience night sweats or overheating during sleep, especially in warmer climates or due to bedding that traps heat.

That’s where cooling pillows come in — engineered with breathable fabrics, gel-infused foams, and phase-change materials to draw heat away from your head and neck.

A 2024 study in the Journal of Sleep Research found that lowering skin temperature by just 1°C can improve sleep onset by 15% and increase deep sleep duration by 20%. No wonder the best pillow for hot sleepers in 2025 is one that helps regulate temperature naturally.

The Science Behind Cooling Pillows
Cooling pillows aren’t just a trend — they’re backed by real science. Traditional memory foam traps heat, while modern cooling pillows use thermoregulating technologies like:
Gel-infused memory foam: absorbs and disperses heat.
Bamboo or Tencel covers: increase airflow and wick moisture.
Phase Change Materials (PCM): actively adjust to your body temperature.
Ventilated designs: with open-cell structures for continuous air circulation.

In a study conducted by SleepScore Labs, a “triple-cooling pillow” increased REM sleep time by 17% and reduced self-reported night sweats in 83% of users.
So yes — cooling pillows don’t just feel better; they scientifically enhance sleep quality.

Top Features to Look for in the Best Cooling Pillow
When shopping for the best pillow in 2025, focus on comfort and performance. Here’s what matters most:

Breathable Fabric Cover
Opt for materials like bamboo, cotton, or Tencel that wick moisture and let air flow freely.

Cooling Gel Layers
Gel or copper-infused foams pull heat away from your body to keep your pillow cool to the touch.

Adjustable Loft
An adjustable fill lets you customize the height — especially great for side sleepers who need neck support.

Eco-Friendly Materials
Organic or OEKO-TEX® certified pillows ensure fewer chemicals and better airflow.

Washable and Durable
Machine-washable covers and anti-flattening cores keep your cooling pillow fresh for years.

Best Cooling Pillows 2025 — Editor’s Picks
Here are the standout cooling pillows making waves this year:

Eli & Elm Side Sleeper Pillow
Designed for side sleepers, this ergonomic pillow features a U-shape curve that hugs your shoulder and neck perfectly. The breathable cotton cover and responsive latex foam blend keep airflow steady, making it one of the best side sleeper pillows for 2025.

TEMPUR-Cloud Breeze Dual Cooling Pillow
This luxury favorite uses dual gel layers that actively cool both sides, ideal for those who flip their pillow often.

Coop Home Goods Eden Pillow
A fully adjustable pillow with gel-infused memory foam and a bamboo-derived viscose cover. Great for side, back, or combination sleepers.

Brooklyn Bedding Luxury Cooling Pillow
Features copper graphite infusion for maximum cooling and antibacterial protection. A perfect balance between plush and supportive.

Cooling Pillows for Side Sleepers — What Makes Them Different
Side sleepers need more than just cooling — they need neck and shoulder alignment. The Eli & Elm Side Sleeper Pillow is engineered specifically for this:
Curved edge fits the shoulder line naturally.
Adjustable loft keeps the neck neutral.
Cooling airflow channels prevent heat buildup.
A 2025 consumer survey found that 65% of side sleepers reported improved comfort and better temperature regulation with a cooling pillow compared to traditional memory foam options.
If you’re a side sleeper who wakes up hot or sweaty, upgrading to a cooling side sleeper pillow could be a total game-changer.

Tips to Maximize Cooling Comfort
Even the best cooling pillow performs better when paired with good sleep hygiene. Try these simple tweaks:
Use breathable pillowcases (cotton, linen, or bamboo).
Pair your pillow with cooling sheets or moisture-wicking bedding.
Keep your bedroom temperature between 60–67°F for optimal rest.
Wash your pillow cover regularly to maintain airflow.
Avoid heavy comforters or high-tog duvets that trap heat.
Together, these habits can help you stay cool, dry, and deeply rested all night long.

FAQs

1. Do cooling pillows really work?
Ans-Yes. Studies show that pillows with cooling technologies (like gel or PCM) can lower surface temperature by up to 2–3°C, helping reduce overheating and improve sleep continuity.

2. Are cooling pillows good for side sleepers?

Ans-Absolutely. Look for side sleeper pillows with contoured shapes and adjustable fill. They maintain neck alignment while dissipating heat — giving you both comfort and coolness.

3. How long does the cooling effect last?

Ans-High-quality cooling pillows (like Eli & Elm or Tempur-Pedic models) maintain effectiveness for 3–5 years with proper care. Gel and PCM layers do not wear off quickly if used with breathable pillowcases.

Final Thoughts

Your pillow shouldn’t make you sweat — it should help you rest. With advanced materials and smart designs, the best cooling pillows of 2025 offer more than comfort: they deliver better, deeper, and healthier sleep.
Whether you’re a side sleeper, back sleeper, or someone who just runs hot, investing in a cooling pillow is one of the smartest upgrades you can make this year.
Say goodbye to flipping your pillow all night — and hello to cool comfort that lasts till morning.