Are you a side sleeper waking up with neck pain or shoulder pain, your pillow might be the problem. How do I know? Because this has happened to me. Recently actually. It wasn’t until I made the switch that I finally felt relief. That being said here are my favorite vegan pillows for better neck and shoulder support.
Side sleepers, or about 70% of people, need additional firmness to support their neck and head. You want to be careful you are not selecting a pillow that is too thick because this will have the reverse effect. This was my problem. I was waking up with terrible shoulder pain that led to problems turning my head and a lot of misery.
In that same breath, you want a pillow that isn’t going to go flat overtime. Instead something like latex pillows will keep their shape, unlike down feathers. If you don’t want a flat pillow and prefer something more natural, consider one of these vegan pillows.
The reason I choose these pillows is not only for the environmental impact but because they are totally free from harmful substances that bedding and mattress typically contain. That being said, I introduce you to Naturepedic.
Naturepedic
I can’t speak enough about the company Naturepedic. So much so, I just finished an entire article on their incredible mattresses, which I encourage you to check out.
Aside from mattresses, they also offer a wonderful selection of organic bedding and vegan pillows made with natural materials. You will find no synthetic materials in these non-toxic pillows. 100% organic to reduce your chemical exposure.
Naturepedic has all of the certifications we are looking for in a product.
- GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) – the highest organic standards, which also includes ethical sourcing and fair worker treatment.
- GOLS (Global Organic Latex Standard) – which ensures the latex is organic, socially justifiable, environmentally friendly, and traceable
- EWG Verified – a strict database for health and safety of products
- FSC® (Forest Stewardship Council®) – the wood is sustainably and responsibly sourced
- MADE SAFE® – like EWG, products are ranked on their safeness
- GREENGUARD® – tests for chemical emissions such as volatile organic compounds
Naturepedic products are also certified in a handful of other things that you can read about here. In this article we will discuss Vegan Certified products that contain no animal products (where some contain organic wool) and are never tested on animals.
Best Vegan Pillows
Solid Latex Pillow
If you are ready for the perfect amount of neck and spine support, check out their solid natural latex pillow. Encased in a breathable organic cotton cover. This firm pillow offers a solid GOTS-approved latex that is soft yet will keep its shape.
It’s specifically designed to relieve pressure points in your head and neck as well as spinal alignment support.
Adjustable Latex Pillow
Next on the list is the pillow that solved all of my problems (ha, okay, only the big one). My shoulder pain dissipated the morning after I used this soft pillow.
The adjustable Latex Pillow is a great option if you are unsure about the amount of support you actually need. This is because it is filled with adjustable latex batting and (a surprise to me) comes with an additional bag of more in case you need an extra bit of fluff. This is a great alternative to down pillows.
This pillow is designed to support all sleeper types or sleep position. It’s perfect for back sleepers, side sleepers (like me), or stomach sleepers.
PLA Pillow with Organic Fabric
Unlike memory foam pillows, (also known as plastic) these pillows are made from PLA. PLA is a plant-based fiber which is derived from non-GMO sugarcane.
This is also the most affordable of Naturepedic’s natural pillows. It’s encased in an organic cotton fabric that is machine washable and entirely free from harmful chemicals.
Body Pillow – PLA with Organic Fabric
Another great option for side sleepers are Naturepedic’s body pillows. This is the best pillow for relieving pressure from your arms, knees, hips, and spine. Their I shape gives extra support to the head and knees.
These vegan pillows are also made with PLA and have an outer cover which is 100% organic cotton sateen. Its designed to sleep cool, be moisture wicking, and will give you the best sleep.
If you are looking for a more sustainable alternative, as well as a safe alternative, these vegan pillows are the way to go.
These in my opinion are the best organic cotton pillows money can buy. While they aren’t your cheap conventional pillows, they are made from the highest quality of certified organic materials and will last you a LONG time.