Good quality sleep is of paramount importance for a focused and healthy lifestyle. However, aside from a good diet and sports activity, firm mattresses and quality pillows are great contributors to good night sleep. In this article, we’ve covered the best bamboo pillow reviews as well as a compelling buying guide that will introduce you to different bamboo pillow types and help you buy the right one.
What is a bamboo pillow?
The bamboo pillow is an organic pillow made out of bamboo. While some manufacturers produce 100% bamboo pillows, some others include other materials in combination. There are many benefits of bamboo pillows and over the past few years, they’ve increasingly grown in popularity due to their hyperallergic properties and their composition helps users have a cool sleep free of sweating and heat.
They consist of bamboo base viscose outer shell, in addition to other substances that keep it firm. The center of the bamboo pillows is filled with memory foam which proves a great substance for comfortable and convenient nighttime.
Bamboo pillow types
Manufacturers mainly use 100% organic bamboo pulp to design natural bamboo pillows. They’re eco-friendly. They feel spongy in touch and are extremely convenient to use. They are mainly shopped for in all-summer regions where locals often face humid and tropical weather. That said, these pillows are ideal for the summer environment.
The material inside of the base is spongy and comfortable on touch. Also, special properties go towards bamboo’s heat-resistance, so it won’t absorb heat and doesn’t need re-adjusting overnight as the pillow won’t get warm. They are also hypoallergic and effective at resisting dust and dander.
The semi-synthetic bamboo pillow uses the same bamboo base that is eco-friendly, sustainable and organic. In addition to the pressed pulp, these pillows use some chemicals and bleach to press it. So, while chemical solutions don’t make it 100%-natural, it’s also not entirely synthetic material. To press and mash the bamboo manufacturers mainly introduce processes that see using material like sodium hydroxide and then use the pulp cellulose through different processes to make it harder, to finally spin it into the thread.
It’s important to note that most bamboo pillows available in the market aren’t made out of 100% bamboo. They’ll mostly have viscose filling that is made out of bamboo. They will also use bamboo-shredded memory foam. Sometimes, however, they’ll refer to using synthetic materials to avoid allergic reactions.
As trends change and better options are introduced pillow manufacturers combine bamboo memory foam with gel memory and aloe vera. If you’re looking for the most cushion-like sensation and premium quality, the best bamboo pillows are those that use gel memory foam and aloe vera.
Why Use Bamboo Pillow? Benefits of using Bamboo Pillow
There are many reasons why to use a bamboo pillow. We know that the natural and organic structure of the pillow has various health benefits for us. We broke those reasons down that will convince you to spring for it.
It’s hypoallergic
The original pillows aren’t completely chemical additive-free, while the semi-synthetic viscose bamboo pillows contain a small amount for it. Generally speaking, they are hypoallergic, they don’t absorb and help spread dust, dander, and pollen. Many people are concerned about themselves and their children when shopping for a pillow, mainly because of allergy-induced asthma and other liabilities. With a bamboo pillow, all your worries can be dispelled.
It’s eco-friendly and sustainable
Bamboo is a plant that is considered eco-friendly. It’s available in vast amounts in Asia and easy to maintain and grow. In addition to that, it’s fast to grow and spread. Unlike cotton pillows, which are also popular in the market, it doesn’t require irrigation. Most importantly, it’s degradable and recyclable, which means that once you no longer need it, it’ll need some tweaking and can be reused again.
It has anti-bacterial properties
Bamboo boasts a natural substance known as “maboo-kun,” which contributes to its protection and safety against bacterial effects. That said, it protects it from pest, bacteria and fungal infestation. Additionally, that material makes it resistant to dust mites.
It is flexible
Many manufacturers manufacture bamboo pillows to fit some customization standards. Many pillows have zippers that allow adjusting. For example, you can add or remove the stuffing if you feel it’s not enough or you feel overwhelmed. With the right filling ratio, you’ll be able to sleep on both stomach and back, as well as sides.
It is heat-resistant
Bamboo prevents the heating and sweating of our bodies when we sleep. It’s capable of absorbing over 40% of water as compared to cotton and even more than some other synthetic materials. Make sure to look for pillows with breathable fabric and gel-infused foam which enhances air movement through the pillow.
It’s washable
Most pillowcases are easy to wash both in the machine and my hands, although the 100% accuracy and reliability depend on the manufacturer. Make sure to check with the manufacturer or at declaration whether your bamboo pillowcase can be washed without dire consequences. The same goes for using the dryer on them. While most of them are dryer-safe, it’s better safe than sorry.
Keep in mind that if you don’t dry your bamboo pillow after washing it, it can begin smelling of mold, given it’s an organic material. Always make sure to dry and care.
Drawbacks of using Bamboo Pillows
The list of benefits that come with bamboo pillow keeps growing. However, it’s important to note some of its drawbacks, which may not make it the most attractive option on the market.
Long Period Compression
Manufacturers love rolling and compressing products that have memory foam in it. Bamboo pillows with shredded memory foam are no exception. Pillows spend a long time like that and they begin to lose some of the properties that make them as good as they are. That said, long-term compression can reduce the overall bounciness of the pillow and stretching quality of memory foam.
It takes a long time to adjust
Adding up to the previous downfall, after they spend a long time rolled up and compressed, bamboo pillows may spend a lot of time adjusting to their original size and expand. It may take them anywhere between a few hours up to 72 hours. Also, the pace of its adjusting also depends on conditions where you live – is there a lot of natural light, is there mold or humidity in your apartment, and other criteria.
It’s heavy
It’s no secret that memory foam is a heavy material, so is bamboo-shredded memory foam. This may not be a problem unless your sleeping depends on the weight of the pillow. There are a lot of adjustable pockets that allow you to adjust its thickness and other criteria. Still it’s a heavy pillow.
The gas
Many bamboo pillows may also come with an ugly, chemical, off-gassing smell due to it being vacuumed and sealed in its packaging for a long time. The good thing is that the smell disappears within from a few hours to a few days, but sometimes it may stay for a longer time.
Top 5 Best Bamboo Pillows 2020
Best Overall: Snuggle-Pedic Bamboo Shredded Memory Foam Pillow
- The 120-day trial period during which you can test its quality.
- Hypoallergenic materials resisting dust mites and bacteria.
- Machine washer and dryer-friendly.
Runner-Up: Snuggle-Pedic Supreme Plush Gel-Infused Memory Foam Bamboo Pillow
- Breathable, gel-infused foam.
- The 120-day trial period for testing.
- Lasting warranty
Best Budget Bamboo Pillow: Ontel Miracle Shredded Memory Foam Pillow
- Gel-infused memory foam for a cool sleeping experience.
- Extra-plush design for cushy sleep.
- It’s washing-machine-friendly.
Best for Plush Lovers: Zen Bamboo Ultra Plush Pillow
- Gel-infused foam for extra-comfort and breathability
- Hypoallergenic materials protect you from bacteria.
- Super-comfy design which conforms to your head and neck.
Best for Neck Pain: Xtreme Comforts Hypoallergenic Bamboo Shredded Memory Foam Pillow
- Adjustable for extra support for the neck.
- Hypoallergenic properties
- Great for washing machines.
#1 Best Overall: Snuggle-Pedic Bamboo Shredded Memory Foam Pillow
After thorough testing, we found that Snuggle-Pedic Bamboo Shredded Memory Foam queen-size pillow is the best pick for a bamboo pillow. It boasts incredibly intuitive design with self-adapting technology which lets the pillow conform to your head and neck. That’s extremely important because of different sleeping positions. With the adaptive bamboo-shredded memory foam, the pillow will adjust to the shape of your head and neck, regardless of the sleeping position you’re in.
It’s ideal for all sleeping positions, as it uses its pressure-relieving technology to help you enjoy a long and lasting night sleep. That said, there’s support for everything – back, side and stomach sleep. It uses premium covering sheet to help you have a cool night free of sweating and heat. The breathable material consists of luxorious micro-vented ziperless covering with 6% Lycra that contributes to the breeze sensation while sleeping.
What’s also important is that this is a CertiPUR-US certified foam which is made to be eco-friendly, without using materials that contribute to ozone depletion, as well as PBDE flame retardants, mercury and other heavy metals, in aim to reduce the toxic gas emissions.
In addition to all great features, the company allows consumers to test the pillow for 120 days before deciding whether they want to keep or return the pillow. Additionally, it has a great 20-year warranty to guarantee that the pillow will last for many years. If you’re willing to spend a little more for a durable and reliable pillow Snuggle-Pedic’s bamboo shredded memory foam pillow is the right direction to go.
This pillow is an epitome of perfection in every sense. However, there is a tiny drawback that may require your patient. Just as is the case with most pillows that contain memory foam in them, this one also requires a longer time to expand than the pillow that doesn’t use memory foam. Depending on your in-home conditions, this pillow may take up to three days to expand.
Key features:
- Premium comfort that provides cloud-like sleeping experience, with bamboo memory foam that conforms to your head and shoulders, reducing the back and neck pain.
- Pressure-relieving technology.
- Lycra to reduce the sleeping sweating and heating and help regulate temperature in the body.
- 120-day trial period, during which you can test the pillow’s features and see if they’re fit for you.
#2 Runner-Up: Snuggle-Pedic Supreme Plush Gel-Infused Memory Foam Bamboo Pillow
If you can afford more premium options from Snuggle-Pedic, this bamboo shredded memory foam with gel-infused foam will make your sleeping nights a charm. Snuggle-Pedic has a proven history of manufacturing top-notch pillows that feel fluffy and plush and will never flatten.
This particular model offers even better support for the back and neck, making it ideal for sleeping in any pose. Additionally, there is a Zipper Removable Outer Cover that lets consumers adjust the thickness and comfort they want on their pillow, which in great matter improves the overall sleeping experience.
Additionally, it has hypoallergenic and dust mite resistance and uses organic compounds, meaning it’s ideal for people who suffer from allergy-induced asthma and need a clean, healthy surface for a peaceful night rest.
Similarly to the aforementioned model, this one also comes with a 20-year warranty and 120-night trial test where consumers can decide whether this pillow works for them or not. You can also choose between standard, queen and king sizes, while gel-infused memory will allow more breathability and keep you cool at night.
Key features:
- Adjustable zipper which helps adjust the thickness and personalize sleeping experience.
- Hypoallergenic materials contribute to dust mite and bacteria resistance, making it ideal for chronic asthma sufferers.
- It also supports the 120-day trial period, during which you can test the pillow for yourself.
- Amazing 20-year warranty leaves more than enough of time to enjoy cushy night sleep.
#3 Best Budget Bamboo Pillow: Ontel Miracle Shredded Memory Foam Pillow
When it comes to budget-friendly options, miracle bamboo pillows are the best. They boast a 40% bamboo viscose and 60% polyester design, but still feel very natural thanks to the soft memory foam infusion which adds up to comfort and conforming the head and neck.
It offers additional lumbar support of flat to medium firmness so you can sleep at any side you want. It offers a set of durable materials, and temperature regulating materials which will help you remain fresh and not feel hot overnight, which makes up for less of turning, switching, and waking up all sweaty and hot. You won’t have to flip your pillow every few hours or even minutes.
The only drawback is that the materials used are not as hypoallergic even though it says so for the most part in the documentation, and they don’t offer the support for people who have certain allergies so shop with caution.
All in all, it’s a great value for people who can’t afford the overly expensive bamboo pillows, but still don’t wish to compromise on quality sleep.
Key features:
- Amazing value for the price. It’s extremely affordable and adds up a lot of great features.
- It boasts several temperature-regulating materials which make it great for summer nights.
- Adjustable thickness to add extra cushioning and provide comfy rest without turning and flipping.
- Conforms to your neck and head.
#4 Best for Neck Pain: Xtreme Comforts Hypoallergenic Bamboo Shredded Memory Foam Bed Pillow
When the back and neck pain affects your sleep schedule, finding the right pillow can be extremely challenging. However, Xtreme Comforts Hypoallergenic Bamboo Pillow will exceed all your expectations and convince you that sleeping on your back can also feel comfortable.
Regardless, it sits well with all sleeping positions. You can easily adjust the filling, thickness, and flatness with a simple swipe of a zipper. With CertiPUR-US certification, you can rest assured your bamboo pillow doesn’t use toxic materials and will contribute to a healthy sleep cycle.
It will adjust to the shape of your head and neck and encourage proper back alignment. It is ideal for sleepers who suffer from insomnia or migraine after waking up, as well as chronic snoring. Lastly, it uses hypoallergic materials and is resistant to dust mites and bacteria. The hypoallergenic feature may have an extra catering towards people who suffer from asthma or allergy-induced asthma.
Read More: 8 Useful Tips: How to Reset Sleep Schedule?
Key features:
- It’s ideal for all sleeping positions
- Free of toxic materials
- Ideal for people who feel hot in the summer because of breathable materials.
- Hypoallergenic so it resists bacteria and dust mites, adding up to comfortable sleeping experience.
#5 Best for Plush Lovers: Zen Bamboo Ultra Plush Pillow
If you’re looking for extra plushness and enjoy feeling as if you sleep on the cloud Zen Bamboo gel-infused pillow could be the right choice for you. It uses an extra-plush gel fiber which will help you feel more convenient and ensure maximum comfort even during the hottest summer. It’s a great thing to use because you can sleep on any side you want, with the pillow conforming to your neck and head, promoting symmetric positioning. Its bamboo cover is made to be soft and breathable so that it can promote a long and relaxing night rest.
There are also hypoallergenic features so you won’t have to worry about allergies, dust mites, mold, and other germs, especially if you suffer from allergy-induced asthma. Lastly, they are fade resistant so you won’t have to worry about the stains, and even if it does get dirty, you’ll be able to easily wash it in the machine.
The only drawback is that it’s not warranted. Many people don’t care about the warranty of a more budget-friendly pillow like this one. However, a warranty is a nice feature to have to justify the credibility of the manufacturer. Still, it’s value-driven and extremely comfortable pillow that will last you for a long time.
Key features:
- Hypoallergenic materials will help you get rid of annoying allergic reactions, bacteria and other germs.
- Breathable build adds up to extended comfort and breeze feeling over night.
- It has extra plush sensation, feels cushy and cloud-like.
- It’s stain-resistant so you don’t have to worry about washing it in the machine all the time.
Things to consider when shopping for a bamboo pillow
After we’ve highlighted all the important features and benefits of a bamboo pillow, here are some precautions to consider before actually buying one.
Composition and Materials
Most bamboo pillows use a bamboo pulp base, meaning that in most cases they are stuffed with memory foam or some other material inside. On other occasions, manufacturers will fill it with a viscose fiber filling or aloe vera and other gels. The most recent trends see using shredded memory foam in combination with gel or aloe vera which contributes to more soft experience as well as more comfort.
Quality
Quality depends on your preferences, brand and materials used. Some pillows can appear to be too tough and hard, some don’t feel cushy enough and give a flat sensation, while some appear to be too lumpy. If you’re shopping for the pillow physically, try to test it in person or make the best out of Amazon’s return policy or trial tests.
Size
There are three types of bamboo pillows and those are standard queen and king sizes. Those pillow sizes correspond to the size of your bed. However, not all brands use the same measurement units but they should be approximately similar.
Warranty
Good quality pillows are expensive, but they should last for several to many years. However, good pillows need maintenance regardless of their price. A good pillow will maintain its shape, composition, and cushiness for as long as the warranty lasts, if not longer. Average warranty lasts from five to seven years. However, some premium brands offer a lasting warranty of 20 years or even more.
Origin
There are USA-based and imported bamboo pillows and the final decision is on you. While the vast majority of products are also as great as imported, people generally prefer buying mattresses, sheets, pillows and other bedding material that wasn’t imported.
Aftercare and Maintenance
Once you’ve bought the pillow you need to provide sufficient care and maintenance for them to last longer. We’ve compiled a few useful tips. As mentioned above, care and washing depend on the manufacturer itself, so read the manufacturing instructions before applying any of the maintenance methods we listed.
Wait
Some pillows are large so during transport and shipping, they seem to be compressed to fit more space. When you unpack it, it may appear flat and nothing like you pictured it. Don’t worry, let it retain its old shape in 12-24 hours. Make sure to air it to expel the inconvenient smell from its packaging.
Clean frequently
Make sure to wash your bamboo pillow frequently, between two to five months. People who suffer from some of the allergy reactions listed above should wash it more frequently.
While most miracle bamboo pillows can be washed in machines, some manufacturers recommend that only the bamboo base gets washed in the machine while the shredded memory foam should be washed gently by hand and soap. It can deteriorate and lose its shape.
You can use a dryer, while drying on the sun is also considered a good option.
We Also Reviewed
Lianlam Bamboo Shredded Memory Foam Cooling Pillow
Lianlam memory foam pillow adds extra support and firmness to promote good posture. The memory foam is adjustable and it conforms to your sleeping shape regardless of which position you’re in. The gel-infused pillow also adds up to a breeze comfort overnight, by preventing the feeling of hotness and discomfort. It’s made out of toxic-free materials, is hypoallergenic and washable in a washing machine. The only drawback is that it only has a one-year warranty.
Key features:
- It uses toxic-free materials
- It’s gel-infused which adds up to the cool night rest.
- It’s flexible and washable.
Hotel Comfort Bamboo Memory Foam Pillow
Hotel Comfort bamboo pillow is ideal for those who suffer from some kind of allergy. This pillow comes with an additional companion at an affordable price. It’s great for reducing neck, back and shoulder pain and promotes healthy sleep. It boasts hypoallergenic materials, can be washable in the washing machine, as well as dried.
Key features:
- In addition to a respectable price, this model also comes with an extra pillow.
- It is great at reducing back, neck and shoulder pain
- It promotes healthy sleep through breathable fabric and hypoallergenic materials.
Dream Rite Shredded Hypoallergenic Memory Foam Pillow
Dream Rite hypoallergenic memory foam uses a set of breathable fabric for extended night comfort even in the long summer, which makes it comfortable to use at all times. The advanced memory foam technology allows more personalized sleeping experience as it easily adjusts to your head and neck. It is great for sleeping in all positions and boasts a removable filling which users can use to adjust the thickness, making the pillow softer.
Key features:
- It conforms to your body and neck.
- Ideal for all sleeping positions
- Advanced memory foam technology for extended comfort.
- Removable filling
WonderSleep Premium Bamboo Derived Rayon Memory Foam Pillow
WonderSleep makes bamboo pillows that cater to people with neck, back and shoulder pain and reduce it. The memory foam filling adds up to comfort and sleeping relief. The pillow also uses breathable cover made of viscose rayon which provides heat and sweat free experience and helps provide uninterrupted sleep
Key features:
- Reduces and eliminates neck and back pain.
- Allows you to wake up fresh and rested.
- Adjustable filling that allows you to change the thickness.
- Breathable cover for reduced heat.
The essence of Bamboo Alternative Fiber Pillow
The essence of Bamboo has a lot of great options for consumers, and its hypoallergenic bamboo alternative fiber pillow will make your nights full of proper rest. It uses bamboo-derived rayon and poly shell materials, that help keep the sleep cool and reduce tossing and turning around. The manufacturer promises sleep free of disturbances letting you wake up refreshed and rested.
- It’s washable
- Breathable material reduces tossing and flipping.
- Hypoallergenic materials are ideal for eliminating asthma symptoms.
Plixio Bamboo Cooling Hypoallergenic Sleep Pillow
Plixio’s bamboo memory foam has been infused with cooling gel that prevents overheating, flipping and turning. There’s also additional support for neck and back, making it ideal for those who suffer from back pain, chronic snoring and other conditions. It can be washed in a washing machine and dried in a dryer and boasts a hypoallergenic design which makes it ideal for people who aren’t tolerant to dust mites, dander, mold and other germs.
- It has a long-lasting warranty.
- It’s washable
- Made out of materials and thickness that reduce chronic snoring and insomnia.
- Hypoallergenic properties eliminate bacteria and other germs.
Conclusion
In the end, the final decision is up to consumers who are looking for particular set of specs on a bamboo pillow. Essentially, the best bamboo pillow should have adjustable firmness, good neck and back support, and provide cool sleeping cycle where sleepers won’t get too hot. What are some good properties of a bamboo pillow? Leave a comment!
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