When all you need is a good night’s rest, your pillow can be your best friend or your worst enemy – it all depends on the type you’re using.
I’m guessing you have one of the more “traditional“ models sitting in your bedroom, be it a down or a memory foam one, which is why the goal of today’s article is to switch the focus on a relatively new type of pillow that took the market by storm.
Interested in learning more?
Are Bamboo Pillows Actually Made Of Bamboo? Bamboo Pillow Benefits You Should Know: Weighing The Pros & Cons Bamboo Pillows: How Do They Compare To Other Common Pillow Types? Infographic: How To Choose The Best Bamboo Pillow A Quick Comparison Of The Best Bamboo Pillows In 2019 Best Bamboo Pillow Reviews: My Top 10 Favorites In 2019 How To Choose The Best Bamboo Pillow – A Detailed Buyer’s Guide Let’s Talk Care: How To Keep Your Bamboo Pillow In Top Shape FAQ About Bamboo Pillows Time For The Final Verdict
Are Bamboo Pillows Actually Made Of Bamboo?
Okay, I’m going to have to disappoint you – no, your new bamboo pillow won’t be made of raw bamboo. That’s one of those popular beliefs that are not true, and if you think about it for a second, you’ll see it doesn’t make much sense, either.
A pillow made of bamboo? How on Earth would that make for a comfortable sleeping surface?
So, if they don’t contain raw bamboo, why are they called bamboo pillows?
Pillows are simple and consist of only two parts – the cover and the filling. And while the actual fill isn’t always made from bamboo, the cover is – hence the name. I’ll talk about materials later, so be sure to stick around for that!
For now, though, all you need to know is that the name comes from the actual bamboo fibers used in the manufacturing process. While in the „grass“ phase, bamboo is harvested and broken down into fibers suitable for making the filling. The fibers can undergo further chemical treatment, as well, to make viscose rayon – a bamboo-based textile you see in covers.
Does it make a bit more sense now?
An Extra Peace Of Mind For The Environmentally-Conscious Buyers
The amount of machinery and chemical processing that raw bamboo goes through before it turns into rayon can be off-putting to a lot of buyers that are trying to lead eco-friendly lifestyles, and if you’re one of them, I get how this might concern you.
However, before you disregard bamboo pillows completely, you should know that they’re still one of the most eco-friendly, highly sustainable options out there. A lot of manufacturers are trying to cut down on their use of chemicals, and opt for recycling techniques and filtration that minimize waste and chemical output.
As a result of these efforts, bamboo-based rayon is an eco-friendly choice, even though it may not be a 100-percent natural material.
Bamboo Pillow Benefits You Should Know: Weighing The Pros & Cons
Now, I know what you’re thinking:
Why would I buy a bamboo pillow, when my old one serves me just fine?
I’m glad you asked because it shows you’re a responsible shopper that doesn’t fall for all the latest fads on the market. And to answer your question, there are quite a few bamboo pillow benefits you should know about:
1. Eco-Friendly Material
The thing about bamboo is that it grows super fast – a crop can be ready for another harvest in a matter of weeks – and doesn’t require much regarding care (such as irrigation and use of pesticides). As such, it’s among the Earth’s most sustainable resources we have at our disposal.
Sure, you could argue that all the processing bamboo goes through before it reaches your bedroom still includes chemicals, but compared to other materials (for example, nylon and polyester), it’s still a far better eco-friendly option.
2. Hypoallergenic
Being a naturally hypoallergenic material that fights off dust mites and bacteria, bamboo is highly unlikely to fuel your allergies. What’s more, it will probably help calm them down significantly.
Furthermore, unlike some other materials often found on the market, such as nylon or polyester, bamboo pillows are less likely to cause any skin irritations, which makes them an excellent choice if you have super sensitive skin.
3. Heat Regulation
If you keep waking up in the middle of the night because your pillow always feels too hot and drenched in sweat, you’re not alone – a lot of people tend to lose some much-needed sleep due to the same issue. Plus, those same pillows that get way too hot during the summer months, also tend to get freezing during the winter. You can’t win, huh?
Bamboo could be the solution to your problems! Thanks to their exceptional breathability and minimal heat retention, these pillows will maintain a steady temperature, no matter what your sleeping environment is.
With all that in mind, it’s pretty obvious that almost anyone would find sleeping on a bamboo pillow beneficial regarding health and overall sleep quality. I mean, bamboo pillows are supportive, durable, comfortable, and they help keep you cool – what’s not to like about them?
However, I do feel that there are certain groups of people that would find the experience of sleeping on a bamboo pillow particularly enjoyable:
- Hot sleepers and people living in warm climates.
- Those of you that have insomnia or tend to wake up easily.
- People who are living with chronic back and neck pain.
- Those of you that have sensitive skin prone to irritation.
- People who are dealing with nighttime allergy symptoms.
Are There Any Downsides?
I would be lying if I told you there weren’t any, but if you ask me, a few minor drawbacks are nothing compared to the benefits I talked about earlier. That said, let’s take a look at the not-so-perfect side of the bamboo pillows:
1. They’re Pricey
Bamboo pillows tend to cost more than your average, “traditional“ pillow. They’re not outright expensive, and there are some more budget-friendly options, but there’s still a considerable difference in price.
2. They Have An Initial “Chemical“ Odor
The smell of brand new bamboo pillows can be pretty unpleasant, but I can assure you it doesn’t last very long. It will go away in a matter of days, but if you wish to speed up the process, you can air it out for a few hours.
3. They Tend To Be Heavy
Due to their construction and the unique materials used, bamboo pillows will be a bit heavier than your regular ones. The weight depends on the size, as well, so an excellent way to keep things light is to opt for a smaller one.
Bamboo Pillows: How Do They Compare To Other Common Pillow Types?
Now that you know all the benefits you can expect if you opt for a bamboo pillow let’s take a moment to discuss how they compare to other common pillow types, some of which are probably residing in your bedroom as we speak.
Bamboo Vs. Memory Foam
One could argue that bamboo pillows often feature a memory foam fill, and while that might be true, there’s still a significant difference between the two – „traditional“ memory foam will never be as comfortable as the one found in bamboo pillows.
The difference lays in the cover that doesn’t retain heat or moisture – it tackles one of the memory foam’s most significant issues – sleeping hot.
Bamboo Vs. Latex
The best thing about latex pillows is the amount of support they provide, which makes them an excellent choice for those suffering from chronic back or neck pain. Plus, they don’t have a problem with off-gassing.
However, you should know that they’re not as comfortable and often much harder than not only bamboo pillows but other types, as well. Of course, you can always get natural latex, but be prepared to spend some serious cash if you do.
Bamboo Vs. Down
They might be well known for their luxurious feel and softness, but if you’re looking for an eco-friendly option, down pillows are not the way to go, for sure – as you can imagine, the process of obtaining feathers for the down filling is quite inhumane.
They tend to flatten out quite quickly, though, which could lead to discomfort – and that’s something you’re trying to avoid, right? Furthermore, feathers are one of the most common allergy triggers out there, which gives the hypoallergenic nature of bamboo pillows a significant advantage.
A Quick Comparison Of The Best Bamboo Pillows In 2019
Before we get to the actual reviews, let’s make a quick comparison of the best bamboo pillows!
Product | Material | Size | Maintenance | Warranty | Rating | Price |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Coop Home Goods Memory Foam Pillow
| Polyester and bamboo cover, shredded memory foam filling | Queen, King | Machine-washable | 5-year warranty | 4.8/5 | Check |
The Original Miracle Bamboo Shredded Memory Foam Pillow
| Bamboo cover, and shredded memory foam filling | Queen | Machine-washable cover | N/A | 4.3/5 | Check |
Xtreme Comforts Slim Shredded Memory Foam Standard Bamboo Pillow | Bamboo cover and shredded memory foam filling | Standard, Queen, King | Machine-washable | 6-year warranty | 4.5/5 | Check |
WonderSleep PREMIUM Memory Foam Pillow
| Polyester and bamboo cover, shredded memory foam filling | Queen | Fully machine-washable | 1-year warranty | 4.5/5 | Check |
Cooling Bamboo Pillow - Adjustable for Back Side and Stomach Sleeper
| Bamboo cover and shredded PandaPEDIC memory foam filling | Standard, Queen | Machine-washable cover | N/A | 4.2/5 | Check |
Coop Home Goods - Memory Foam Body Pillow | Polyester and bamboo cover, and shredded memory foam filling | Body Pillow | Fully machine-washable | 5-year warranty | 4.8/5 | Check |
Medium Profile Memory Foam Neck Pillow
| Bamboo cover and solid memory foam | Standard with three thickness levels | Machine-washable cover | 5-year warranty | 4.7/5 | Check |
Zen Bamboo Ultra Plush Gel Pillow (2 Pack)
| Bamboo cover and gel fiber filling | Queen, King | Fully machine-washable | N/A | 4.3/5 | Check |
Snuggle-Pedic Ultra-Luxury Bamboo Shredded Memory Foam Pillow | Polyester, bamboo, and Lycra cover, and shredded memory foam | Standard, Queen, King | Fully machine-washable | 20-year warranty | 4.9/5 | Check |
Bluewave Bedding Ultra Slim Gel-Infused Memory Foam Pillow
| Polyester and bamboo cover, solid gel-infused memory foam | Slim, Super Slim, Ultra Slim, Ultra Slim Full | Removable and machine-washable cover | N/A | 4.6/5 | Check |
Best Bamboo Pillow Reviews: My Top 10 Favorites In 2019
I’m sure you’ll find your ideal pillow among these best bamboo pillow reviews!
1Coop Home Goods Memory Foam PillowThe Popular One
What better way to start open up this round-up of the best bamboo pillow reviews than with one of the most popular models on the market? If you’ve done some browsing on your own, chances are you’ve already seen the Coop Home Goods memory foam pillow.
Pros
- Fully adjustable due to the shredded memory foam filling
- Ideal for all sleeping positions
- Uses CertiPUR-US certified foam
- Suitable for allergy sufferers
- Machine-washable
- Comes with a 100-night sleep trial
Cons
- A bit pricey
- It takes time to get the right thickness
- Requires weekly fluffing
Features
Not only does it feature a shredded memory foam filling, but it allows you to adjust the amount you’re using, as well. You have a chance to customize your pillow whenever you want. As a result, the same model can work for back, side, and stomach sleepers!
Furthermore, the cover, which combines bamboo-based rayon and polyester, ensures your pillow will stay allergen-free at all times.
While the opportunity to customize the pillow according to your preferences is impressive, I have to warn you that it takes a bit trial and error until you get it right – and once you do, make sure you fluff the pillow once a week!
If you’re not quite sure if this pillow is worth it, remember that it does come with a 100-night sleep trial – plenty of time to figure out if it works for you or not.
Recommended For: Given the high level of customization, the pillow will work for back, side, as well as stomach sleepers, which makes it a suitable choice for pretty much anyone!
Emily’s Take:
I’ll be honest with you – this is one of my personal favorites. Sure, it has its downsides, but as you go down this list, you’ll see that every model has them. And frankly, what’s not to like?
2Snuggle-Pedic Ultra-Luxury Bamboo Shredded Memory Foam PillowKeep Your Cool
The next one on my round-up, the Snuggle-Pedic, features shredded memory foam, as well, which makes it comfy enough as it is. However, the manufacturer didn’t stop there – the pillow allows you to adjust the amount of filling according to your sleeping style. Talk about comfort, huh?
Pros
- Easily adjustable thickness
- Suitable for back, side, and stomach sleepers
- Kool-Flow technology provides extra breathability
- The foam is CertiPUR-US certified
- Resistant to dust mites and hypoallergenic
- Fully machine-washable
- Comes with a 120-night sleep trial
Cons
- A bit expensive
- You should fluff it every week
Features
If keeping your cool throughout the night is what matters to you the most, then you should consider this model. Thanks to the Kool-Flow technology utilized in making the bamboo cover, the Snuggle-Pedic provides exceptional breathability and makes night sweats a thing of the past. Plus, you don’t have to worry about allergens, either!
It seems like some of the shredded memory foam pillows have a problem with maintaining their fluffiness for long, though. Much like the previous model, you should fluff this Snuggle-Pedic pillow once a week if you want to avoid sleeping on a flat surface.
Also, it comes with a price tag that won’t exactly fit everyone’s budgets – but it’s worth every penny. If you don’t believe me, give it a try and see for yourself – with the 120-night sleep trial, it will be a risk-free purchase.
Recommended For:I highly recommend the Snuggle-Pedic Ultra-Luxury Bamboo Shredded Memory Foam Pillow to all the hot sleepers out there due to its exceptional breathability.
Emily’s Take:
Sometimes comfort isn’t the only thing that matters – the pillow’s ability to keep you cool throughout the night plays a huge role, too. If you’re a hot sleeper, you’ll love this Snuggle-Pedic pillow and its Kool-Flow technology cover – the extra breathability will blow your mind!
3Bluewave Bedding Ultra Slim Gel-Infused Memory Foam PillowDual Sleeping Surface
Okay, now I’d like you to take a break from all the shredded memory foam, and check out this solid gel-infused memory foam pillow by Bluewave Bedding with a dual sleeping surface – the pillow is round on one side and completely flat on the other. As such, it allows you to pick the one you find more comfortable.
Pros
- Gel-infused CertiPUR-US certified memory foam
- Additional ventilation holes for improved breathability
- Dual sleeping surface
- Suitable for back and stomach sleepers
- Hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites
- Removable and machine-washable cover
Cons
- Has a strong chemical odor
- It’s a bit too firm
Features
Another thing you’ll notice by looking at the pillow is that it has ventilation holes, added there as a way to increase air circulation throughout the pillow. Paired with the gel infused into the foam, it provides an exceptionally cool sleeping experience.
Lastly, you’ll notice that the pillow has a very low profile. The idea was to create a supportive, yet comfortable sleeping surface with the focus on stomach and back sleepers.
And while they mainly succeeded in creating just that, I have to admit I found it to be a bit too firm for my liking – but different strokes for different folks, right?
You can expect it to have a strong chemical smell, though. It will go away eventually, but for the first few days, I suggest you leave the windows open.
Recommended For:If you’re a back or stomach sleeper, and prefer a firmer sleeping surface, this low-profile pillow might be the perfect choice for you!
Emily’s Take:
If you’re a back or stomach sleeper, you should give this Bluewave Bedding pillow a chance – the low profile is there to ensure you get all the support you need, without compromising comfort in the process. Keep in mind that the pillow is a bit firm, though – but if you enjoy a firmer sleeping surface, you two might be the perfect match!
4The Original Miracle Bamboo Shredded Memory Foam PillowThe Three-In-One Concept
Okay, time to get back to the shredded memory foam. The next pick for my round-up of the best bamboo pillows on the market is the Original Miracle Bamboo Pillow. The idea behind this model was to create a three-in-one solution – a pillow capable of delivering an extra firm, medium or soft level of firmness depending on its position.
Pros
- Features a shredded memory foam blend
- Adjustable firmness level
- Suitable for allergy sufferers
- Anti-static
- Machine-washable cover
- Can be rolled up for traveling
Cons
- Initial chemical smell
- It may be too firm for some
- Can’t wash the entire pillow, just the case
Features
But here’s where it gets even better: the Original Miracle Bamboo pillow can be a perfect traveling companion, too. So, if you’re not a fan of hotel pillows, you can roll this one up and bring it along on your trips!
Oh, and you’re going to love this one – thanks to the anti-static nature of the cover, you won’t have to deal with that whole frizziness thing your hair pulls off every morning!
Sadly, though, only the cover is machine-washable, which means you’ll have to wash the pillow itself manually.
Also, I should probably warn you about the firmness – I feel like they went a bit too far in that department. As a result, this pillow might not be everyone’s cup of tea.
Recommended For:If you travel a lot, getting The Original Miracle Bamboo Shredded Memory Foam Pillow might be a good idea, since you can roll it up and take it with you.
Emily’s Take:
I’m under the impression that those of you that tend to travel a lot – be it in your spare time or because of work – will appreciate this pillow the most, since you can easily roll it up, and bring it along with you. Although it’s a bit too firm for my liking, the three-in-one concept does deliver three levels of firmness, so you should be able to find one that works for you.
5Xtreme Comforts Slim Shredded Memory Foam Standard Bamboo PillowThe Go-To Choice Of Back And Stomach Sleepers
You might be thinking: Oh, it’s just another shredded memory foam pillow, nothing new to see here.
But you’re only partially right – yes, it does have a shredded foam filling, but it’s not your average pillow. What sets it apart from the rest of the bunch is its slim profile. Combined with the option to mold and maneuver the filling, it provides exceptional comfort and neck support that every back and stomach sleeper will appreciate.
Pros
- The foam is CertiPUR-US certified
- Helps with back and neck pain
- Ideal for stomach sleepers
- Kool-Flow technology improves the cover’s breathability
- Hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites
- Machine-washable
- Conforming shredded memory foam filling
Cons
- The sizes run small
- Has a slight initial odor
Features
Furthermore, the Kool-Flow technology incorporated in the cover’s design ensures a sufficient amount of air will circulate throughout the pillow at all times, which means you don’t have to worry about heat retention.
One thing you should know before you place your order is that the sizes run a bit small. Ordering a queen-size model might leave you with something that looks more like a standard-sized one. That’s why I would honestly suggest you go with a size larger pillow to be on the safe side.
Oh, and don’t worry about the initial chemical smell – it’s not even that noticeable, and it will go away pretty fast, too.
Recommended For:Due to its low profile and contouring filling, this model offers everything you might be looking for in a pillow as a back or stomach sleeper.
Emily’s Take:
Since back and stomach sleepers need to focus on spinal alignment and neck support, a low-profile pillow, such as this one, works best for them. And while I recommend you switch from sleeping on your stomach to your back, I know it’s easier said than done – so, at least get yourself a bamboo pillow that will support you properly.
6WonderSleep PREMIUM Memory Foam Pillow
If you’re looking for a “premium” feel at a somewhat reasonable price, then the WonderSleep Premium memory foam pillow might be the right choice for you. The best thing is you’re getting two pillows for the price of one!
It contains shredded memory foam, so it gives you the option of adding or removing some of the fill to find that perfect feel and firmness, and give you a better – personalized – sleep experience. That way, both you and your sleeping partner could essentially buy the same pillows, but experience them in entirely different ways. Neck and shoulder support has never felt better if you ask me!
Pros
- Removable filling helps you adjust your comfort level
- Provides support and helps relieve pain
- Suitable for allergy sufferers
- The pillow and the cover are both machine-washable
- You get two pillows for the price of one
Cons
- Strong chemical smell
Features
Another thing I’d like to mention is the fact that both the pillow and the cover are machine-washable, which makes maintenance a breeze. If you want to make your spouse happy with your choice of pillows, this is the way to go!
I had an issue with off-gassing with this one. I’m not joking – it felt like a strong chemical smell filled up the room as soon as I pulled out the pillow. It did go away after some serious airing out, but I thought I should mention it, nonetheless.
Recommended For:If both you and your sleeping partner are on the market for new pillows, but you’re worried about different preferences getting in the way of your purchase, this set of highly adjustable models might be the answer.
Emily’s Take:
Getting two bamboo pillows and saving some money in the process? Sign me up for it anytime! All jokes aside, though, if you want a “premium” feel but you’re worried you can’t afford it, the WonderSleep bamboo memory foam pillows could be the solution for both you and your sleeping partner!
7Cooling Bamboo Pillow – Adjustable for Back Side and Stomach Sleeper The Budget-Friendly Option
Okay, let’s talk budget-friendly options. All these “premium” range pillows sound nice, but is there something an average buyer with a somewhat limited budget could afford?
Of course, there is!
Pros
- Customizable loft thanks to the shredded memory foam blend
- Suitable for back, side, and stomach sleepers
- The cover is hypoallergenic
- Very affordable
Cons
- Has a strong chemical smell
- Tends to retain heat
- It feels a bit lumpy
Features
The Cooling Bamboo Pillow allows you to adjust the loft, as many more expensive models do, by just unzipping the case and removing the desired amount of shredded memory foam blend. As a result, you can customize the thickness and overall feel of the pillow so that it fits your particular needs and sleeping position. That’s why it’s a popular choice among side and back, as well as stomach sleepers.
However, there are some downsides worth mentioning, too.
First off, prepare yourself for the strong plastic-like odor. It took almost a week for the pillow to air out entirely. Plus, it tends to get hot, which was an unpleasant surprise – I honestly believed heat-retention wouldn’t be an issue with the bamboo cover.
Lastly, due to all the different types of foam used for the filling, the pillow does feel lumpy – but it’s something you’ll have to get used to with time, I guess.
Recommended For:Buyers working with a tight bamboo pillow budget should give this one a chance.
Emily’s Take:
I get that spending a lot of money on a pillow isn’t exactly an option for everyone, which is why I’m always happy when I can offer you a few budget-friendly options, as well. One of my personal favorites in the lower price range is this Cooling Bamboo Pillow, so make sure you check it out, too!
8Coop Home Goods – Memory Foam Body Pillow The Full-Body Experience
When people are discussing pillows, one topic always comes up – head and neck support. That’s why the Coop Home Goods body pillow is so fantastic – it shifts the focus from your neck to your entire body!
Pros
- Adjusts to your body and provides full-body support
- Suitable for all sleeping positions and pregnant women
- Features CertiPUR-US certified memory foam
- Resistant to dust mites and hypoallergenic
- The entire pillow is machine-washable
Cons
- It’s quite heavy
- Hard to find a suitable pillowcase
Features
The combination of a bamboo-based rayon and polyester cover and shredded CertiPUR-US certified memory foam makes this pillow a suitable choice for pretty much anyone. The hypoallergenic nature of the cover will help keep the allergies under control, and the conforming, adjustable design of the pillow itself makes it the perfect pillow for both side and back sleepers, as well as moms-to-be.
And don’t worry about cleaning a pillow this big – the manufacturers made the entire pillow, as opposed to only the cover, machine-washable. Hassle-free maintenance is always a plus, right?
I have to warn you that this thing weighs almost seven pounds, which will probably make it the largest pillow you’ve ever owned. But before you dismiss it as too much, remember we’re talking about a full-body pillow here, and comparing it to its smaller relatives isn’t fair.
Oh, and speaking of sizes, good luck finding a pillowcase for this giant that fits!
Recommended For:Since this is a full-body pillow, I feel like it could make any sleeping position more comfortable, but moms-to-be are the ones that should genuinely give this one a try.
Emily’s Take:
Ladies, I know how much pressure pregnancy can put on your body, and I can tell you one thing: If this full-body pillow ends up feeling even half as comfortable to you as it did to me, you’re in for some quality sleep for the remainder of your pregnancy – and maternity!
9Medium Profile Memory Foam Neck Pillow The Orthopedic Wonder
Let’s take a break from shredded memory foam for a moment, and talk about the beneficial features solid foam has to offer to sleepers. Specifically, I’m talking about the Medium Profile Memory Foam Neck Pillow by Perform Pillow – a model approved by the chiropractors as a solution for neck pain and other issues improper spinal alignment could cause.
Pros
- Orthopedic design encourages proper spinal alignment
- Features two differently-sized contours
- Dust mite resistant and hypoallergenic
- Kool-Flow technology provides sufficient airflow
- Removable and machine-washable cover
- Fits in standard-sized pillowcases
Cons
- Slightly more expensive than other models
- Doesn’t have room for customizations
Features
Thanks to the orthopedic, double-contour design, with two differently sized contours, the pillow can provide an exceptional level of support and keep your spine correctly aligned.
The bamboo cover, on the other hand, is hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites and features the Kool-Flow technology for extra breathability. You’ll finally be able to enjoy a comfortable, allergy-free, and cool sleeping experience!
Now, a good portion of this round-up consists of highly adjustable pillows, but this model isn’t one of them. I thought long and hard about whether that deserves to be listed as a disadvantage, rather than a product feature, but at the end of the day, it does make choosing the right pillow more complicated – and that’s always a downside.
Also, they’re slightly pricier than your average bamboo pillow, but it will be money well spent.
Recommended For: If you’ve been dealing with a lot of neck pain due to sleeping on an unsupportive pillow and improper spinal alignment, it might be time to replace it with the Medium Profile Memory Foam Neck Pillow.
Emily’s Take:
The thing that caught my eye first was the double-contour design. Even though the pillow’s shape isn’t as customizable as in the shredded memory foam models, you can still choose between the two contour sizes – and sometimes, that’s more than enough. Plus, the fact that the chiropractors “approve” of these pillows says a lot about their overall value. If it’s good enough for the chiropractors, it should be good enough for you, too, right?
10Zen Bamboo Ultra Plush Gel Pillow (2 Pack)If You Want To Try Something New
Okay, I think you’ve had enough bamboo memory foam pillows thrown your way today. It’s time for something a bit more different – fiber filling! I figured it would be a good idea to show you that memory foam isn’t the only available option.
The Zen Bamboo Ultra Plush Gel Pillows – that’s right, plural – is a two-in-one deal you shouldn’t miss out on if you’re working with a tight budget. Of course, an affordable price isn’t the only thing these pillows have to offer.
Pros
- The cover features a no-shift construction
- Resistant to dust mites
- Perfect choice for allergy sufferers
- Free of chemicals and allergens
- They’re immune to stains and fading
- Reasonably priced two-for-one deal
Cons
- They go flat very quickly
Features
They’re resistant to all the common allergens, such as dust mites, mildew, and mold, and free of chemicals, as well, which makes them a perfect choice for people suffering from allergies and respiratory issues.
Furthermore, they won’t develop stains or fade, so don’t worry about them losing their initial looks over time. Maintenance-wise, all they need is a trip to the washing machine every few months. Entire pillows are machine-washable, in case you were wondering.
The only downside – and it can be a pretty annoying one – is the fact that they lose their shape rather quickly, so be prepared to fluff them daily.
Recommended For:If you’re in the mood for trying something different, here’s your chance! If you’re used to memory foam pillows, it might take some time until you get used to the overall feel of gel fiber fillings, so it won’t exactly be a smooth transition – but it’s a doable one, nonetheless. And who knows, maybe you decide to say goodbye to memory foam for good!
Emily’s Take:
If you’re in the mood for trying something different, here’s your chance! If you’re used to memory foam pillows, it might take some time until you get used to the overall feel of gel fiber fillings, so it won’t exactly be a smooth transition – but it’s a doable one, nonetheless. And who knows, maybe you decide to say goodbye to memory foam for good!
How To Choose The Best Bamboo Pillow – A Detailed Buyer’s Guide
Okay, you’ve read the best bamboo pillow reviews, but how do you pick the best one out of the bunch?
Of course, back and neck support, and proper spinal alignment are the vital things every pillow should provide, since these are the building blocks of finding – and maintaining – the right sleeping posture, and avoiding back, neck, and shoulder pain altogether.
That said, here are some other things you should look for if you’re in the market for a new pillow:
Materials – Inside And Out
As mentioned previously, every pillow – bamboo or not – consists of only two parts, the cover, and the fill. Consider that to be good news, though – fewer parts for you to worry about, right?
Cover
Don’t expect the cover to be 100-percent bamboo. In most cases, the so-called “bamboo cover“ is a combination of bamboo-based rayon and polyester, usually in a 40 to 60 percent ratio.
Filling
When it comes to the interior, you have a wide range of materials to choose from:
- Cotton
- Down filling
- Poly-fill and other synthetic fibers
- Memory foam
- Latex
- Wool
- Buckwheat
Should You Go With Solid Or Shredded Memory Foam?
All other types of fillings aside, when it comes to memory foam, you have two choices – solid or shredded. But which one’s better?
Well, one could argue that memory foam is still memory foam, no matter what shape it’s in, meaning that the choice between solid and shredded is only a matter of personal preference. However, there is a difference, and it lays in the overall feel the pillows can provide.
That said, if you enjoyed the softness of down or cotton-filled pillows in the past, shredded memory foam might be a better choice for you. Consider it like getting the best of both worlds.
Quality
I know determining quality when shopping online can be tricky, but I hope my detailed best bamboo pillow reviews will help you make the right choice.
Of course, not all pillows are made equal, and while some products can pass as „high-end,“ others feature lower quality materials and poor designs that make them lumpy, hard, and often too flat to be comfortable.
It all depends on the brand, though, so the best advice I can give you is to take my reviews into account before making a purchase and steer away from the low-quality shredded foam since it’s the main culprit for uncomfortable, lumpy bamboo pillows.
Size
Dimensions are something you should take into account when you’re buying a bamboo pillow, and here, the trick is to choose one that suits the size of your bed well, and at the same time, gives your head enough space to move around while you sleep.
Luckily for you, although some brands prefer the one-size-fits-all approach, most bamboo pillows on the market are available in three sizes – the standard size, queen, and king. The difference is mostly in width, but it can affect the price tag, as well – the bigger the pillow, the higher the price.
Removable – And Machine-Washable – Cover
I’ll explain everything about pillow care in a second. For now, I want you to remember that getting a model with a removable cover that can be machine washed can make all the difference when it comes to cleaning your new pillow.
Warranty
If you’re already spending money on the best bamboo pillow, you’re going to expect it to last, right? That’s why it’s always a good idea to get your pillow from a trusted manufacturer, and one way to ensure this is to look at the warranty – it can tell you a lot about how much the manufacturer believes in the quality of their product.
Sleep trial can be a helpful addition, too – it will give you time to decide if you like the pillow, and ensure you’ll get a risk-free purchase.
Made In The US Or Imported?
If you’re like most people, you prefer products manufactured in the US over labels that say “Made in China.“ But where does this preference come from?
Well, there’s this general idea that the products made in the US contain less (if any) potentially harmful chemicals and follow higher standards. However, it seems to me that the most significant difference comes from the price, as well as the readily available customer support – they’re relatively similar when it comes to comfort, though.
So, if you like a particular pillow, don’t let the “Made in China“ label stop you from buying it – more often than not, you’ll get a pretty similar level of quality paired with a budget-friendly price.
Let’s Talk Care: How To Keep Your Bamboo Pillow In Top Shape
I have great news for you:
Taking care of a bamboo pillow isn’t that much different than cleaning a “traditional” one. Sure, the actual methods might be different, but the principle stays the same – air it out, fluff it up in the dryer, and wash it regularly.
Don’t worry; I’ll explain everything you need to know about bamboo pillow care and maintenance in a second:
1. Air It Out
It’s not uncommon for brand new bamboo pillows with a memory foam fill to have a bit of an unpleasant odor for the first few days or so. It’s not something you should worry about, as it’s certainly not harmful in any way, but I get that it can be a bit off-putting.
The good news is that you can get rid of the smell quite quickly. I know you might be excited about trying out your new pillow, but let it get some fresh air first. Let it sit near an open window for a couple of hours or overnight if the smell is particularly strong – that should do the job.
2. Fluff It Up
Let’s be honest here – who doesn’t like the feeling of a new, fluffy pillow? Sadly, pillows are pretty much bound to lose some of the initial charm after a couple of weeks, and it’s no surprise with all the pressure our head and shoulders put on them night after night.
But there’s a clever trick you could try to get them back into their original fluffy state, and it involves your dryer. So, whenever your pillow starts feeling a bit flatter than usual, throw it into your dryer for approximately 15 minutes. Make sure you use a low-heat setting, though!
3. Wash It
I’d recommend you wash your pillow every three to six months, as well, because it helps prevent accumulation of skin cells and dust in them. The bamboo cover is easy enough to clean – all it needs is a trip to the washing machine set on a gentle cycle.
The interior of your pillow is a different story – they need to be washed by hand. Lukewarm water and mild detergent should do the job. After the initial cleaning, rinse it out with cold water and leave it air dry.
Now, even with proper maintenance, you’re going to have to replace your bamboo pillow eventually – and here’s a tip that will help you decide if it’s time for a new one:
Fold your pillow in half (or press it down in the middle if it has a memory foam filling) and see what happens – a pillow that doesn’t spring back into its original shape should be replaced.
FAQ About Bamboo Pillows
Okay, time to answer some frequently asked questions about bamboo pillows:
Time For The Final Verdict
What do you think, though? Which one of these sounds like the most comfortable place for you to rest your head? Share your favorites in the comments below!