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Updated August 2026

The Best Cooling Pillows

We separate cool-to-touch covers from breathable fills and moisture control, then compare eight options by cooling mechanism, sleep-position fit and return terms.

By The Pillow Advisor Editorial Team · Compared from published tests, official specifications and current terms

Disclosure: The Pillow Advisor is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost to you. We only select products from cited independent tests, official specifications, materials and current ownership terms; we do not run an in-house lab. How this works.

Top pick: Coop Sleep Goods EdenCool+ Adjustable Pillow — a genuinely cool-to-touch cover plus adjustable gel-infused foam, so any hot sleeper can dial in the loft and still sleep cool.

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A crisp, cool white pillow on a neatly made bed in a bright, breezy bedroom.

“Cooling” can mean three different things: a surface that feels cold on first contact, a fill that lets heat escape, or a cover that moves moisture away. A pillow may do one well without doing the others, and no passive pillow can stay colder than its room indefinitely.

We compared published temperature tests, official construction details and current policies across eight options. The ranking rewards a clear cooling mechanism first, then checks whether loft and firmness suit the intended sleep position—because a cold pillow is still a poor choice when the fit is wrong. For every sleep style and material in one place, see our complete guide to the best pillows.

Top picks at a glance

Short on time? These four cover most people. Full reviews are below.

Best OverallEditorial pick

Coop Sleep Goods EdenCool+ Adjustable Pillow

Most hot sleepers who want a cool-touch cover plus a customizable feel.

$139-$169 (classic from $139 queen; crescent/cut-out $149 queen, $169 king)

Check priceRead review
Best Gel-Infused Memory FoamEditorial pick

Brooklyn Bedding Luxury Cooling Memory Foam Pillow

Hot sleepers who want memory-foam contouring without the heat trap.

$139-$199 (regular ~$199, often ~$139 on sale)

Not sold on Amazon — check the brand directly.

Read review
Best LatexEditorial pick

Saatva Latex Pillow

Warm-climate sleepers who want a lofty, breathable feel over memory foam.

$165 (queen) / $185 (king)

Check priceRead review
Best for Hot SleepersEditorial pick

Casper Hybrid Pillow with Snow Technology

Very hot sleepers who want all-night cooling without flipping the pillow.

$161-$209 (standard ~$161 sale / $179 list; king $209)

Check priceRead review

Compare all 8 pillows

Loft, type and price side by side. Tap a name to jump to its review.

PillowBest forLoft
Coop Sleep Goods EdenCool+ Adjustable PillowBest OverallAdjustable mid to high loft
Brooklyn Bedding Luxury Cooling Memory Foam PillowBest Gel-Infused Memory FoamTwo options: low (~4 in) and high (~5 in)
Saatva Latex PillowBest LatexTwo fixed loft heights (Standard 4-5 in / High 6-7 in)
Casper Hybrid Pillow with Snow TechnologyBest for Hot SleepersMid loft with a 1.25-inch gusset (~6 in uncompressed)
Nectar Tri-Comfort Cooling PillowBest Cool-to-Touch CoverAdjustable mid loft
Eli & Elm Cotton Side-Sleeper PillowBest for Side SleepersAdjustable; U-shaped contour
Beckham Hotel Collection Bed Pillows (Set of 2)Best BudgetPlush mid loft
TEMPUR-Cloud Dual Cooling PillowBest LuxuryMedium-high, fixed loft (~6.4 in)
Cutaway comparison of solid foam, shredded fill, latex and fiber pillow constructions
Construction changes airflow, contouring and adjustability. Compare what is inside the pillow, not only the cover claim.

The 8 best, reviewed

01
Best Overall

Coop Sleep Goods EdenCool+ Adjustable Pillow

Editorial selection

$139-$169 (classic from $139 queen; crescent/cut-out $149 queen, $169 king)

Type
Adjustable gel-infused shredded memory foam and microfiber blend with a cool-to-touch knit cover
Loft
Adjustable mid to high loft
Firmness
Medium (adjustable)
Adjustable
Yes

Why it made the list: Most hot sleepers who want a cool-touch cover plus a customizable feel.

Specifications and evidence source: CNN Underscored - Coop Sleep Goods EdenCool+ Adjustable Pillow review

Pros

  • Cool-to-touch cover whose Qmax CNN Underscored ranked above cotton, bamboo, silk, and Tencel (CNN Underscored)
  • Fully adjustable fill works for back, side, and stomach sleepers who run hot (CNN Underscored)
  • Certified virgin foam and a washable cover make it a safe, low-risk buy (CNN Underscored)

Cons

  • Costs more than basic foam pillows, which reviews flag as a barrier (CNN Underscored)
  • Foam can have a faint off-gassing smell until it airs out (CNN Underscored)

Best for: Most hot sleepers who want a cool-touch cover plus a customizable feel

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02
Best Gel-Infused Memory Foam

Brooklyn Bedding Luxury Cooling Memory Foam Pillow

Editorial selection

$139-$199 (regular ~$199, often ~$139 on sale)

Type
Ventilated pin-core memory foam infused with copper and graphite, topped with a cool gel surface
Loft
Two options: low (~4 in) and high (~5 in)
Firmness
Medium
Adjustable
No

Why it made the list: Hot sleepers who want memory-foam contouring without the heat trap.

Specifications and evidence source: Apartment Therapy - Brooklyn Bedding Luxury Cooling Memory Foam Pillow review

Pros

  • Dual-action cooling keeps heat buildup very low for a foam pillow (Apartment Therapy)
  • Responsive memory-foam contouring relieves neck and shoulder tension (Apartment Therapy)
  • Copper adds an antimicrobial, anti-allergen benefit (Apartment Therapy)

Cons

  • Some buyers report an initial chemical or off-gassing smell (buyer reviews)
  • Solid foam means loft cannot be customized (Apartment Therapy)

Best for: Hot sleepers who want memory-foam contouring without the heat trap

Not sold on Amazon — check the brand directly.

03
Best Latex

Saatva Latex Pillow

Editorial selection

$165 (queen) / $185 (king)

Type
Shredded Talalay latex core wrapped in down-alternative microdenier fiber, inside an organic cotton sateen cover
Loft
Two fixed loft heights (Standard 4-5 in / High 6-7 in)
Firmness
Medium Soft (plush yet supportive)
Adjustable
No

Why it made the list: Warm-climate sleepers who want a lofty, breathable feel over memory foam.

Specifications and evidence source: NCOA - Best Cooling Pillows (Saatva Latex, Best Latex Cooling Pillow)

Pros

  • Naturally breathable Talalay latex; in NCOA testing it rose only about 14.4 degrees, among the best in its test set (NCOA)
  • Sleep Foundation rates temperature control 8/10 and names it Best Overall on its cooling list, with a 9.6/10 lab score (Sleep Foundation)
  • Durable natural materials earned a strong 8.7/10 as Best Latex Cooling Pillow (NCOA)

Cons

  • Premium price point for a single pillow (Sleep Foundation)
  • The responsive latex feel differs from familiar memory foam (Sleep Foundation)

Best for: Warm-climate sleepers who want a lofty, breathable feel over memory foam

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04
Best for Hot Sleepers

Casper Hybrid Pillow with Snow Technology

Editorial selection

$161-$209 (standard ~$161 sale / $179 list; king $209)

Type
Layered foam core plus down-alternative fiber with HeatDelete bands, phase-change material, and a cool-to-touch cover
Loft
Mid loft with a 1.25-inch gusset (~6 in uncompressed)
Firmness
Medium-soft
Adjustable
No

Why it made the list: Very hot sleepers who want all-night cooling without flipping the pillow.

Specifications and evidence source: Tom's Guide - Casper Hybrid Pillow with Snow Technology review

Pros

  • One of the few pillows that is actually cool to the touch (Tom's Guide)
  • Casper markets 12+ hours of cooling from its phase-change material; Tom's Guide confirmed it stayed cool all night in testing (Tom's Guide)
  • Mid-loft gusset gives solid support, especially for side sleepers (Tom's Guide)

Cons

  • Premium price compared with most cooling pillows (Tom's Guide)
  • Cooling is most noticeable on the cover rather than deep in the foam (Tom's Guide)

Best for: Very hot sleepers who want all-night cooling without flipping the pillow

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05
Best Cool-to-Touch Cover

Nectar Tri-Comfort Cooling Pillow

Editorial selection

$99-$129

Type
Shredded memory foam plus microfiber down-alternative fill with gusset side-zippers (ComfortZip) for adjustable firmness and a quilted cool-to-touch cover
Loft
Adjustable mid loft
Firmness
Medium (adjustable)
Adjustable
Yes

Why it made the list: Hot sleepers who want a genuinely cold cover plus adjustable firmness.

Specifications and evidence source: Mattress Clarity - The Best Cooling Pillows of 2026

Pros

  • Super cool-to-the-touch quilted cover that wicks heat and moisture away (Mattress Clarity)
  • Adjustable firmness works for back, side, and stomach sleepers (Mattress Clarity)
  • Mattress Clarity's top-rated cooling pillow overall (Mattress Clarity)

Cons

  • Fill can get caught in the side zippers when adjusting (Mattress Clarity)
  • Cover is spot-clean only, not machine-washable (Mattress Clarity)

Best for: Hot sleepers who want a genuinely cold cover plus adjustable firmness

Check price
06
Best for Side Sleepers

Eli & Elm Cotton Side-Sleeper Pillow

Editorial selection

$115-$124 (MSRP ~$135, often on sale)

Type
Adjustable U-shaped contour pillow with 75% shredded cooling latex (or memory foam) plus 25% polyester fiber, in a cotton-blend cover
Loft
Adjustable; U-shaped contour
Firmness
Medium (adjustable)
Adjustable
Yes

Why it made the list: Dedicated hot side sleepers who want to fine-tune loft.

Specifications and evidence source: Sleep Foundation - Best Cooling Pillows of 2026

Pros

  • U-shape eases neck and shoulder pressure for side sleepers (Sleep Foundation)
  • Adjustable shredded fill (latex option) is more breathable than solid foam (Sleep Foundation)
  • Cotton-blend cover sleeps cooler than typical memory-foam pillows (Sleep Foundation)

Cons

  • Adjustable fill may need occasional fluffing to keep its shape (Sleep Foundation)
  • Curved U-shape suits back and stomach sleepers less well (Sleep Foundation)

Best for: Dedicated hot side sleepers who want to fine-tune loft

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07
Best Budget

Beckham Hotel Collection Bed Pillows (Set of 2)

Editorial selection

$40-$60 for a set of two

Type
Plush 100% polyester down-alternative fill in a breathable 250-thread-count cotton cover
Loft
Plush mid loft
Firmness
Medium-firm
Adjustable
No

Why it made the list: Budget buyers and guest beds wanting a plush, breathable two-pack.

Specifications and evidence source: Tom's Guide - Beckham Hotel Collection Pillow review

Pros

  • One of Amazon's most-reviewed pillows with a plush hotel-style feel (Tom's Guide)
  • Breathable cotton cover and a two-pack price that undercuts single premium pillows (Tom's Guide)
  • Medium-firm feel offers good loft for side and back sleepers (Tom's Guide)

Cons

  • No active cooling; Tom's Guide found a neutral temperature and does not recommend it for sleepers who consistently overheat (Tom's Guide)
  • Stomach sleepers should avoid it, and the down-like fill can flatten over time (Tom's Guide)

Best for: Budget buyers and guest beds wanting a plush, breathable two-pack

Check price
08
Best Luxury

TEMPUR-Cloud Dual Cooling Pillow

Editorial selection

$199-$239 (Queen $199, King $239)

Type
Medium TEMPUR memory foam core with cooling gel layers on both sides and a removable cotton cover
Loft
Medium-high, fixed loft (~6.4 in)
Firmness
Medium
Adjustable
No

Why it made the list: Hot back and side sleepers who want top-tier cooling and supportive foam.

Specifications and evidence source: Mattress Nerd - TEMPUR-Cloud Breeze Dual Cooling Pillow review

Pros

  • Among the most effective pillows reviewers found for staying cool all night, rated 5/5 for cooling (Mattress Nerd)
  • Supportive medium TEMPUR foam holds its shape and aligns the spine (Mattress Nerd)
  • Removable, washable cover backed by a 5-year warranty (Mattress Nerd)

Cons

  • Expensive premium pillow (Mattress Nerd)
  • No returns, exchanges, or trial period, so it is a non-returnable purchase (Mattress Nerd)

Best for: Hot back and side sleepers who want top-tier cooling and supportive foam

Check price
Illustration showing how pillow loft, shoulder width and mattress sink work together
Effective loft is the height left after the head and mattress settle. Shoulder width and mattress sink change the fit.

How we chose

Loft by sleeping positionIllustrative
Stomach2-3 inLowBack3-5 inMediumSide5-6 inHigh

The right loft fills the gap between your head and the mattress so your neck stays in line with your spine. Side sleepers have the widest shoulder gap and need the most height; stomach sleepers need the least.

Heat dissipation first

We distinguish measured or observed temperature performance from marketing language. A pillow that feels cold for a minute is not automatically one that limits heat buildup through the night.

Breathability of the fill

Open materials move air and trap less heat. We favored ventilated latex, pin-core foam, and gel-infused or shredded fills over solid memory foam, which tends to hold warmth through the night.

Contact cooling versus duration

Qmax describes the rate of heat transfer at first contact and can explain an immediate cool sensation. We treat that separately from airflow and longer-duration temperature testing.

Support for your sleep position

Cooling means little if your neck aches. We checked loft and firmness for back, side, and stomach sleepers, and favored adjustable pillows that let you match the height to your shoulders.

Value across budgets

Hot sleepers shouldn't have to overspend. We included a budget two-pack and a value-led adjustable pick alongside premium options, so there is a strong choice at every price tier.

Evidence and claim traceability

We identify whether a claim comes from an independent temperature test, a reviewer observation or a manufacturer specification. Certifications are noted for material claims but are not treated as proof of cooling.

How to Choose a Cooling Pillow for Hot Sleepers

A cooling pillow with a breathable mesh side gusset on crisp white linen
Breathable covers and gel surfaces are what actually keep a pillow cool.

Start with the fill, because it does most of the cooling work. Ventilated or shredded latex and pin-core foam let air move through the pillow, so heat escapes instead of building up against your head. Gel-infused foam helps too, while solid memory foam tends to hold warmth. If you want to fine-tune the feel, pick an adjustable pillow so you can add or remove fill until the loft matches your sleep position. Side sleepers usually want a taller, firmer loft, while stomach sleepers do best with something low and soft.

Next, look at the cover. A high-Qmax, cool-to-touch cover feels cold the moment you lie down, which is great for falling asleep, but it mainly chills the surface. For all-night relief, pair that cool cover with breathable fill rather than relying on the cover alone. Finally, weigh price against how hot you run. Very hot sleepers and people with night sweats often get the most from phase-change or latex pillows, while a breathable cotton-covered budget pick can be enough for someone who only overheats now and then. Check for certifications like CertiPUR-US and GREENGUARD Gold, and note the return policy before you buy.

Frequently asked questions

Is there a cooling pillow that actually works?

Some pillows can feel cooler or accumulate less heat than conventional solid foam, but “works” needs a time frame. A high-Qmax or phase-change cover can feel cool at first contact; ventilated latex or perforated foam can improve airflow; moisture-wicking fabric can reduce clamminess. None can actively refrigerate your head, so room temperature, pillowcase and bedding still matter.

Source: NCOA - Best Cooling Pillows, CNN Underscored - EdenCool+ review

What is the best pillow to keep your head cool?

Our most versatile pick is the Coop EdenCool+ because it combines a cool-contact cover with adjustable, shredded fill, so you can tune sleep-position fit. If airflow matters more than an icy first touch, ventilated Talalay latex is a strong alternative. Choose the mechanism you need and check the return policy; cooling perception varies with the room and pillowcase.

Source: CNN Underscored - EdenCool+ review, NCOA - Best Cooling Pillows

Does Costco sell cooling pillows?

Yes. As checked on July 23, 2026, Costco lists a dedicated cooling-pillow assortment, including the TheraLuxe Triple Cooling two-pack and several gel-memory-foam options. Inventory, member pricing and warehouse availability change, so use Costco's current category page rather than relying on a fixed product or price in this guide.

Source: Costco - Cooling pillows for hot sleepers

What are the pros and cons of using a cooling pillow?

Pros include a cooler first-touch feel, better airflow or less moisture at the head, depending on construction. Trade-offs include a cooling effect that may fade as materials reach room/body temperature, higher prices, specialized covers that can be dulled by thick protectors, and foams whose support or odor may not suit everyone. Fit and returnability matter as much as the cooling label.

Source: NCOA - Cooling pillow testing, CNN Underscored - EdenCool+ review

Is latex or memory foam cooler for hot sleepers?

Latex usually sleeps cooler than solid memory foam. Its open, naturally breathable structure lets air flow, while dense memory foam tends to trap body heat. In NCOA's testing, the Saatva latex pillow rose only about 14.4 degrees, one of the best results in its test set. If you prefer foam, look for ventilated pin-core or gel-infused versions rather than solid foam.

Source: NCOA - Best Cooling Pillows

What is Qmax and does a cool-to-touch cover really work?

Qmax measures how cold a fabric feels the instant you touch it; a higher number feels cooler. Coop reports the EdenCool+ cover at a Qmax of 0.48, and CNN Underscored ranked its cover above cotton, bamboo, silk, and Tencel for that cool feel. The catch is that cool-touch covers mainly chill the surface, so pairing one with breathable fill gives the best all-night result.

Source: CNN Underscored - EdenCool+ review

Which cooling pillow is best for side sleepers?

Side sleepers need higher, firmer loft to fill the gap between the ear and shoulder. The Eli & Elm Cotton Side-Sleeper Pillow has a U-shaped contour that cradles the shoulder, plus adjustable fill so you can tune the height. Adjustable picks like the Coop EdenCool+ also work well because you can add fill for a taller loft.

Source: Sleep Foundation - Best Cooling Pillows of 2026

Do cooling pillows help with night sweats?

A breathable or moisture-wicking pillow may improve comfort in a warm sleep environment, but it does not treat true night sweats. Mayo Clinic defines night sweats as repeated, drenching episodes and advises medical review when they recur, interrupt sleep or occur with symptoms such as fever, weight loss, pain, cough or diarrhea.

Source: Mayo Clinic - Night sweats

The bottom line

The Coop EdenCool+ is our most versatile cooling starting point because it combines contact cooling with adjustable shredded fill. Choose ventilated latex instead if sustained airflow matters more than an initially cold surface. Still weighing your options? Our complete pillow buying guide covers every sleep position and material in one place.

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