Natural Latex Pillows: Benefits, FAQs & Ultimate Buyer’s Guide

by Sofzsleep

Covered in this Ultimate Latex Pillow Buyer’s Guide:

What are Latex Pillows? 

Latex is extracted from Hevea Brasiliensis trees, also known simply as rubber trees. These trees are also our primary source of natural rubber. The milky latex sap is tapped then processed and made into varying latex and rubber commodities.

Popular bedding products such as mattresses and pillows are made from the rubber sap and no other chemicals are added, making it a natural and safe choice for many. Latex proves a strong alternative to other pillow materials like memory foam and feather/down due to its special set of benefits.

There are many are latex pillow brands in the market. International quality certification helps to ensure that the products are safe without any harmful substances, formaldehyde, or organic tin compound. Sofzsleep latex pillows are made in Belgium by the world’s largest latex manufacturer. They are international quality certified in Europe and Asia to be safe even for babies.

Where can I find Authentic, Natural and Reputable Latex Pillows?

Later in the article, we share more about Sofzsleep’s wide range of latex pillows available for purchase – from baby and child, to adult and even travel sized for convenience! For us, the pursuit for the optimal sleep experience brings us close to nature, so we harvest the purest materials to create our latex bedding products.

Each material we source has its own properties that enhance your sleeping comfort. Afterall, sleep is our natural state, so it is only natural that Sofzsleep uses the purest materials that nature offers to craft that perfect sleep for you. View our latex pillow collection here.

What are the Benefits and Features of Latex Pillows?

There are many benefits to using latex pillows and that is why they are a top choice all-year round, no matter the season. We take a closer look at the features and pros of sleeping with a latex pillow below:

  1. Natural Materials in Latex Pillows

Full latex pillows are made with non-toxic, eco-friendly natural latex. They are free of harmful chemicals, harmful substances and do not contain any synthetic glue or foam. This results in a pillow product that comes highly recommended even for people with allergies or sensitive skin.

Latex pillows are earth friendly and biodegradable as they come from raw plant materials themselves.

Sofzsleep latex is also certified internationally to be free of harmful substances, chemicals and toxics and is safe even for babies and infants.

  1. Naturally Antibacterial, Dust Mite Resistant and Allergen Free

Protect yourself and your loved ones from dust mites, bacteria, mould and allergies by choosing a latex pillow. Prevention is better than cure and that is certainly the case for a hygienic pillow choice!

Sleep with a peace of mind knowing that your latex pillow is:

✅ Anti-Dust Mite Resistant

  • Dust mites are microscopic creatures that are commonly found in housing dwellings such as bedding and carpets. They are known for causing allergies.
  • Choosing a latex pillow will help repel and fight against the presence of dust mites on your bed.

✅ Antibacterial

  • Bacteria is everywhere and you certainly do not want to sleep with it in bed.
  • Choosing a pure latex pillow with antibacterial properties helps to destroy and/or suppresses the growth and harmful effects of bacteria to your body.

✅ Antifungal

  • Pure natural latex has antifungal properties that can limit or prevent the growth of fungi and fungal organisms. 

✅ Antimicrobial

  • Antimicrobial properties are especially important today due to the increased risks to health in the world.
  • Pure natural latex with antimicrobial properties can destroy or inhibit the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

✅ Anti-Allergenic/Allergen Free

  • Latex pillows are ideal for allergy sufferers due to their natural hypo allergenicity, dust mite resistance, and antimicrobial properties that hinder the growth of bacteria, mould and mildew. Pure latex is also gentle on skin.
  • These can lead to asthma and lung respiratory function allergies if not addressed. Say goodbye to asthma and itching due to allergies with a pure latex pillow.

  1. Superb Breathability & Ventilation  

Latex pillows are a favoured choice also due to their breathability and ventilation. Air circulation is a natural by-product from latex, and it helps to prevent heat from being trapped inside the pillow. No unpleasant odours are created as air and heat are regulated as well. As latex pillows are naturally breathable, they can keep you feeling cool as you sleep and leave you feeling refreshed in the morning.

Furthermore, all-natural breathable fabric leads to a happier and healthier you. Breathability is especially important in warmer climates like Singapore with high humidity and long hot seasons.

Sofzsleep bedding products are encased with environmentally friendly bamboo covers that are Sanitized®-treated to ensure that the covers are cleaned well. Our covers provide exceptional moisture absorption (even better than cotton!) due to its naturally high absorption threshold which allows water droplets to evaporate quickly. Bamboo fabric is 4 times more permeability than cotton fabric. Perfect for comfortable and dry sleep.

Bamboos have natural antibacterial properties, and Sofzsleep has transferred that into their bamboo covers, keeping you feeling fresh and clean.

  1. Body and Head Temperature Regulation for Cool Sleep

Latex pillows are superb at body heat management. Good ventilation and moisture regulation make for a comfortable sleeping temperature for all. Latex pillows help to prevent your head and body from overheating because of its internal structure that promotes thermoregulation. Latex can stay cool naturally and maintain an ideal sleeping temperature. Even if the temperature of your room changes, your latex pillow will stay at a consistent temperature throughout the night.

Sofzsleep’s bamboo covers are naturally thermo-regulating, keeping your body at a desirable, constant temperature throughout your sleep.

  1. Optimum Neck, Back and Spine Support for Pressure Relief

Getting a good night’s sleep is at the top of the wish list for many Singaporean working adults. The hectic city lifestyle and rigors of long hours working away at a computer or laptop strains our bodies. It is therefore so important to provide proper support for your neck, back and spine while you rest and sleep at night.

Like a good mattress, your pillow must adapt to your natural neck and body shape to provide optimum support as you catch your ‘Zzzs’. Latex pillows are responsive and adjust to the shape of your head to give you the right level of sleep support and lift. It will cradle your head to relieve pressure on your back and spine. The natural elasticity fosters healthier spinal alignment in the body. Head and neck alignment concerns are resolved as latex pillows follow the contours of your head to provide even weight distribution and pressure relief to the user.

You will also reap these benefits night after night. Latex foam is a denser material (versus memory foam/fibre or down) and can hold its shape for many years to provide consistent neck and back support all while remaining soft and comfortable for relaxed sleep.

  1. Shape, Durability and Longevity of Latex Pillows

Latex pillows are well-known for being resilient, durable, and long lasting due to latex’s unique structure. They can maintain their original shapes and level of support for many years without flattening or sagging as compared to other pillow types. However, for hygiene reasons, we strongly suggest changing your pillow every 3 years. Hair and body oils seep into your pillow and cover every time you use them.  This makes it a breeding ground for odour-causing bacteria and dust mites.

  1. Minimal Noise, Rustling or Shifting of Pillow Material

Latex pillows tend to remain quiet in all situations. They are soft and discreet, there won’t be squeaking, rustling or sounds of pillow material shifting when you turn in your sleep. This makes latex pillows an ideal choice for co-sleepers or couples who sleep together as you won’t risk waking your partner as your toss and turn to fall asleep, and even when you move about while asleep.

If you choose a latex pillow with greater loft (height/width), this proper support potentially provided by higher loft helps to open nose and throat airways to reduce snoring. Thereby also helping to reduce the sounds and disturbances as you, your partner and/or children fall asleep.

  1. Low Maintenance and Easy Cleaning

Latex pillows are easy to maintain and they do not need to be shaken or fluffed unlike other pillow types like down pillows. Being pure and natural, latex pillows deteriorate when exposed to direct sunlight. High exposure to sunlight will discolour latex pillows and cause it to lose its softness and ability to bounce back into shape. It may also cause the latex to become tough and brittle.

No machine washing, hand washing, tumble drying, heat drying, or dry cleaning is required. Ensure that the latex pillow is kept away from direct sunlight, flames, ignition sources and refrain from soaking, bleaching, or ironing your latex pillows.

To clean your latex pillow, all you need to do is:

  1. Use a lukewarm solution of mild soap/detergent and water only to spot clean the latex pillow, paying attention to possible stains.
  2. Afterwards, place fresh towels on both sides of the pillow and press to express any excess moisture.
  3. Air dry flat at room temperature, away from direct sunlight.
  4. You may also vacuum clean the latex pillow occasionally.
  5. Once completely dry, cover your latex pillow with a clean pillowcase cover.

Your latex pillow may come with specific care instructions. Make sure to read and follow the guidelines designed for your specific latex pillow purchased.

Which Pillow Material Type Should I Choose?

Many people begin their pillow journey by asking these questions: How soft do I want the pillow to be? How much support do I need in a pillow? How much should I pay for a pillow? And of course, this question: What material(s) should my pillow be made of? It is no surprise that what is on the inside of your future pillow is the determining factor to the answers for all the other questions!

The benefits a pillow can provide also come down to the filling used to make it. Let’s find out more about the various pillow materials available in the market.

How do Latex Pillows Measure Up vs Memory Foam, Micro Fibre, Polyester, Down/Feather Pillows?

  1. Memory Foam Pillows

✅ Pros: Pressure point relief, Good back support, Comfortable sleep, Motion absorbent (does not transmit movement easily), Easy to maintain.

❌ Cons: Not naturally derived, 95% chemically manufactured product with polyurethane and other synthetic materials, Off-gassing of chemicals being released may occur, High heat retention (traps heat, poor air circulation), Feint chemical smell, Slow rebounding (dense, heavy material, less springy), Not recommended for infant use, Less durable (sags excessively over long periods).

  1. Micro Fibre (Polyester/Polyfill/Poly-Cluster) Pillows

✅ Pros: Affordable price point, Washable, Easy to clean, Various sizes available, Fluffy and bounce back to original shape, Hypoallergenic when produced, Soft like cotton, Lightweight.

❌ Cons: Man-made materials, Poor breathability and air circulation, Less durable (flattens and wears out easily, not long lasting), Not resistant to dust mites (loses hypoallergenic properties over time), Not environmentally friendly (uses harsh chemicals to produce polyfill).

  1. Down/Feather Pillows

✅ Pros: Classic choice, Soft and fluffy, Can be moulded to suit your neck, Can be folded (malleable for sleep preferences), Fluffs up easily, Light and breathable, Washable.

❌ Cons: High maintenance (professional cleaning required), Easily flattened, Possible unpleasant smells, Feather quills may pierce the pillow casing and scratch your face or neck, Slightly higher price point, Slightly allergic (some people with allergies may be irritated by down filling), Noisier pillow filling, Higher price point.

  1. Latex Pillows

✅ Pros: 100% natural product, Alleviates pain and provides pressure relief, High breathability and air circulation, Body temperature regulated, Does not trap heat, Easy to clean, Durable and long lasting, Hypoallergenic, Antibacterial, Dust mite resistant, No off-gassing, Good neck, back and spine support, Minimal noise, Retains shape and springiness. 

❌ Cons: Costly, Heavier material, Not all latex pillows come with removable covers.

How to Choose a Latex Pillow that Suits You: Types of Sleepers and Positions

Deciding the material filling of your dream pillow is just one part of the decision-making process. To arrive at the best pillow choice for you, we must now identify the sleeper type or position sleeper that you are.

When we talk about pillows, the term ‘loft’ is used to describe the height or thickness of a pillow as it lays flat on your bed. Pillows available in the market have either low (less than 3 inches), medium (3 to 5 inches), or high (more than 5 inches) loft. A pillow with high loft is usually fluffier or fuller than pillows with low loft, hence the thicker height. A pillow with low loft will lie flatter or look more levelled as it has less filling than a pillow with higher loft.

Side Sleepers – People who sleep on their sides

Side sleepers require more neck and spine support, hence a supportive pillow with medium to high loft is required, depending on the distance and space between your head and tip of shoulder on the bed. The neck and head must be cradled well by the pillow to keep your spine aligned throughout the night.

  • Pillows for Children Side Sleepers: When you notice your child start to sleep on his side, introduce a slightly thicker pillow (around 5 to 6 cm), depending on your child’s size. Test pillows in the store with your child to choose one that offers optimum loft and support.

Back Sleepers – People who sleep flat on their backs

Back sleepers should choose thinner pillows with medium or low loft as there is a shorter distance between the bed and your head or neck. However, back sleepers who snore or suffer from sleep apnea (a potentially serious sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts) should opt for a pillow with high loft to better keep their nose and throat airways open.

  • Pillows for Children Back Sleepers: The child may not need a pillow until he is 2 years old. A pillow of lower loft would be advised (4 to 6 cm), do bring the child to the store to try out the pillow. You will be able to see whether his head and neck are supported well by the pillow at the store too.

Stomach/Front Sleepers – People who sleep on their stomachs or front of body

Although discouraged and not an optimum sleeping position, stomach sleepers should look for pillows with lower loft. A thin, soft pillow or no pillow at all are usually the options. A pillow with lower loft will create a more neutral spine position to avoid aches and pains in your neck, back and shoulder areas.

  • Pillows for Children Stomach/Front Sleepers: Children and babies should not be stomach/front sleepers as this puts unnecessary pressure on the organs and lungs and could lead to suffocation and death as the body is not strong enough to lift itself. It is important to introduce the use of a bolster to correct this sleeping habit and prevent stomach sleeping.

Mixed/Combination Sleepers – People who sleep in multiple positions as above

If you sleep in a combination of positions, the safest choice would be a pillow with medium loft. You will be able to adjust the pillow and then decide what is the best amount of support needed for you and your body over time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Sofzsleep Latex Pillows

Here at Sofzsleep, we market a range of latex pillows designed to provide quality rest for whatever your sleep need may be. Some require a pillow that provides back pain relief, others look for a pillow that is soft and portable. We address some of the top frequently asked questions about latex pillows that we have received over the years:

Who can benefit the most from using latex pillows?

As latex is naturally hypoallergenic, latex pillows are a boon to allergy sufferers or people who are sensitive to dust mite allergens. Latex pillows are free of toxic ingredients and highly breathable, making them a safe and cool choice for children, especially in tropical countries like Singapore and Indonesia.

How does a latex pillow keep me comfortable while I sleep?

Latex adapts and conforms perfectly to the contours of your neck and shoulders, keeping your spine in its natural alignment. This allows you to relax and have a restful sleep.

Will I feel hot if I sleep on a latex pillow for hours?

Latex pillows are a favoured choice also due to their breathability and ventilation. The millions of microscopic open cells in a latex help to prevent heat from being trapped inside the pillow. No unpleasant odours are created as air and heat are regulated as well. As latex pillows are naturally breathable, they can keep you feeling cool as you sleep and leave you feeling refreshed in the morning.

Sofzsleep pillows are encased in environmentally friendly, breathable bamboo covers. Breathability is especially important in warmer climates like Singapore with high humidity and long hot seasons.

Bamboos have natural antibacterial properties, and Sofzsleep has transferred that into their bamboo covers, keeping you feeling fresh and clean.

How long do Sofzsleep latex pillows last?

Sofzsleep latex pillows can last for many years as long if they are properly maintained. However, for hygiene reasons, we strongly suggest changing your pillow every 3 years. Hair and body oils seep into the pillow and cover every time you use them. This makes it a breeding ground for odour-causing bacteria and dust mites.

Are Sofzsleep latex pillows adjustable?

Latex pillows are naturally elastic and conform perfectly to the shape of your head, neck, and shoulders. This allows you to keep your natural body alignment as you alter your sleeping position during the night.

Are Sofzsleep latex pillows hypoallergenic? Can I sleep on a Sofzsleep latex pillow if I am allergic to latex?

Latex is primarily anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and excellent at body heat management. It is ideal for allergy sufferers due to its natural hypo allergenicity, dust mite resistance, and antimicrobial properties which inhibits the growth of bacteria, mould and mildew which are contributors to asthma and pulmonary function allergies.

Our latex is certified internationally to be free of harmful substances, chemicals and toxics and is safe even for babies.

How do I care for my Sofzsleep latex pillow? Are latex pillows washable?

No, latex pillows are not fully washable. Remember to keep your latex pillow away from direct sunlight. To prolong the pillow’s life, you can consider getting a pillow protector or extra pillow cover.

Follow these steps when cleaning your latex pillow:

Use a lukewarm solution of mild soap/detergent and water only to spot clean the latex pillow, paying attention to possible stains. Afterwards, place fresh towels on both sides of the pillow and press to express any excess moisture. Air dry flat at room temperature, away from direct sunlight.

You may also vacuum clean the latex pillow occasionally. Once completely dry, cover your latex pillow with a clean pillowcase cover.

Is there a trial period for Sofzsleep latex pillows?

For hygiene reasons, we do not offer any trial period for our pillows. More importantly, we ensure that the pillow that you receive is brand new. We have many partners’ stores who carry our pillows. Do feel free to visit any of the stores to try out the various models.

Pure Natural Latex Pillows Available at Sofzsleep

Sofzsleep bedding accessories provide exceptional, contouring support and pressure relieving comfort. The ‘point elasticity’ of our latex means that every part of your body gets individual support and that is clearly reflected in our 8 latex pillow designs and offerings.

  1. Design Pillow – Ergonomic support for neck pain relief.

Sofzsleep’s DESIGN PILLOW features numerous upstanding knobs which help to relax tense neck and shoulder muscles. The pillow features a dual-sided design where the dimpled-side is softer and the other is slightly firmer, catering to different sleeping preferences and neck support levels. The natural bamboo cover is ergonomically designed to keep your head cool throughout the night.

  • Customized support for different sleeping positions.
  • Delivers consistent relief and comfort to neck and shoulders.
  • Highly breathable material keeps sweaty pillows at bay.

  1. Contour Pillow – Accommodates to your sleeping position and pattern.

The Sofzsleep CONTOUR PILLOW is ergonomically designed with dual lobes to support the head and neck, maintaining a straight and natural posture. The unique wave-design of this pillow allows you to achieve an optimal sleeping position, reducing stress on the neck, shoulders, and spine. The pillow excels at airflow as it is made from pure natural latex and bamboo yarn.

  • Unique design suits the natural form of the body.
  • Distributes pressure on the head and relieves pain on the spine.
  • Natural anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and odour resistant fibre.

  1. Arc Pillow – Optimal orthopaedic support for side sleeping position.

Our ARC PILLOW is a unique latex headrest that offers optimal orthopaedic support, ideal for side sleepers. The unique N-shape design of this pillow helps to promote a less-restricted sleeping posture, improving blood circulation during sleep. This latex pillow also lessens the effect of rotary cuff (shoulder) aches and injury by helping the body maintain an optimal sleeping position.

  • Prevents awkward shoulder sleeping positions.
  • Boosts head, neck, and shoulder injury recovery.
  • Cleverly designed for side sleepers.

  1. Classic Pillow – Perfect balance of softness and firmness for stomach and back sleepers.

The Sofzsleep CLASSIC PILLOW is the ideal choice for you if you tend to sleep on your stomach or for young children. Made with pure natural latex, the CLASSIC PILLOW offers balanced firmness and constant airflow, ensuring that you stay cool throughout your sleep. With the perfect combination of pure natural latex and bamboo yarn, users are promised a comfortable sleep.

  • Each latex layer is well-protected with an inner cotton cover.
  • Made with natural anti-bacterial, antifungal and odour resistant fibre.
  • Ideal for back and stomach sleepers

  1. Junior Pillow – Excellent neck support designed for your kids of various ages.

Designed especially for children sleeping positions, the Sofzsleep JUNIOR PILLOW cradles the neck to provide comfortable support throughout the night. Certified by Oeko-Tex® Standard 100, this natural latex pillow will keep your child safe and secure during his sleep. Furthermore, this premium creation features a contour design that helps your child maintain a neutral posture which is ideal for the spine.

  • Unique contour design for ideal sleeping position.
  • Made with toxic-free pure natural latex with no formaldehyde.
  • Superb breathability with natural bamboo cover.

  1. Infant Pillow – Ultimate infant pillow for natural support.

Ergonomically designed to keep an infant’s head slightly elevated to improve breathing and comfort. Our INFANT PILLOW provides exceptional comfort while ensuring unobstructed breathing by keeping your baby’s head in alignment to their spine. Like all our baby products, the INFANT PILLOW is resistant to mould and dust mites, ensuring that your infant stays clean and hygienic.

  • Therapeutic design to improve breathing and support.
  • Natural anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and odour resistant bamboo fibre.
  • Provides maximum air flow that prevents moisture and heat build-up.

  1. Baby Donut Pillow – Excellent pressure distribution with well-rounded baby head support.

Sofzsleep’s BABY DONUT pillow features a specially moulded concave centre design that helps prevent flat head syndrome (Positional Plagiocephaly) in babies and infants by relieving pressure on the head and neck muscles. The BABY DONUT is perfectly baby-friendly and toxic-free as it is made from Oeko-Tex® Standard 100 and EuroLatex Eco certified pure natural latex. It comes with a luxurious bamboo fibre cover which is 4 times more breathable than cotton fabric.

  • Arc-shaped concave design ensures optimal angle for baby’s neck.
  • Natural skin-friendly bamboo cover ideal for babies with sensitive skin.
  • Maximal airflow ensures your baby stays cool and comfortable.

  1. Travel Pillow – Portable luxury with optimal lumbar support.

With Sofzsleep’s TRAVEL PILLOW, you can now enjoy the luxury and comfort of our latex pillow everywhere you go. This portable pillow offers optimal lumbar support for your neck, back and shoulders, ensuring that your head is well supported during your journey. Our TRAVEL PILLOWS are made with pure natural latex and bamboo yarn from Belgium, giving you exceptional and exquisite pressure-relieving comfort.

  • Optimal lumbar support for neck, back and shoulders.
  • Compact, portable and travel easy.
  • Made with pure natural latex and certified by Oeko-Tex® Standard 100 and EuroLatex Eco.

Browse the full Sofzsleep latex pillow and bedding accessories collection here. If you have any other questions, we are here to help! Please fill out the ‘Contact Us’ form, and we’ll get in touch shortly.

Buyer’s Guide for Latex Pillows: Finding the Right Choice for You

Selecting the right pillow and filling material can go a long way in improving your sleep and body condition. Not many know that we spend close to one-third of our lives in bed or asleep! Our overall health is impacted and one can either reap the benefits of a good pillow or suffer from neck and back pain or have trouble falling asleep due to the lack of support or stifling materials.

Besides selecting the right mattress for you and your family, consider investing in a suitable latex pillow too. Everyone has different preferences and sleeping habits, and there can be variations in the ideal pillows for them. There is no one-size-fits all for pillows and that is why Sofzsleep offers a wide range of tailored latex pillow designs, available here and at bedding suppliers in Singapore and Asia.

We hope you find the best pillow for you!

Browse Sofzsleep’s mattress and mattress accessories product collections online today:

Do feel free to contact us if you have any questions or would like to visit our showrooms.