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Bed Basics

PILLOW MATCHUP: Latex vs. Memory Foam

Man sleeping on memory foam pillows. Comparison of memory foam pillows vs latex pillows

After finding the perfect mattress, you still need one more thing when creating your dream bedroom: The perfect pillow. Our Sleep Experts™ know that sleeping on a pillow designed to fit your needs can make a huge difference, so we’re making it easy to find the right one for you. First step, breaking down the differences between two commonly known pillow types: Latex vs. memory foam.

Latex vs. Memory Foam Pillows

What's Inside?

Memory foam is 100% man-made using viscoelastic polyurethane. Whoa, say what? Basically, that’s just a fancy name for the material that gives memory foam its ability to mold to whatever pressure is put on it. Ever left a handprint on a mattress and watched as it slowly morphed back to its original shape? That’s the magic of memory foam. It’s worth knowing memory foam pillows can be created with either solid memory foam or crushed memory foam. Whereas the solid foam has a denser feel and is very responsive, the crushed memory foam is made with little chunks of foam, making it feel a little lighter and more malleable.

Latex is a natural material derived from the sap of rubber trees. It goes through a multi-step molding and cleaning process before being transformed into the bedding materials you’d find in store. However, it’s this unique harvesting method that gives latex its extremely breathable cell structure. In fact, latex pillows can breathe up to seven times better than foam pillows, making it a great option for those seeking cooler sleep. Not to mention, latex materials are hypoallergenic—resistant to mold, mildew, and dust mites.

What Are the Benefits?

The best part of any memory foam pillow is its ability to contour around the head and neck. This extra support can help distribute weight more evenly and relieve your pressure points. For those suffering from any nighttime pain, a memory foam pillow has your back—literally. Not to mention, there are cooling versions that regulate your temperature and help you fall asleep faster.

On the other hand, latex pillows are known for their durability. In fact, when compared with other pillow materials, latex retained its hygiene and comfort longer. Speaking of hygiene, you already know latex is naturally hypoallergenic and antifungal, but it’s also extremely comfortable. It provides consistent nighttime support and relieves tension from the neck and shoulders.

Show Me the Goods

At the end of the day, the right pillow comes down to personal preference, and luckily, we have a huge selection to choose from. But if you want a little guidance, we always have a few favorites to recommend:

If you’re looking for the responsive support of memory foam, the Malouf Supreme Performance Collection has everything you need. The pillows are infused with double-sided cooling technology that not only makes the pillows feel cool to the touch but also continues to regulate the temperature throughout the night.

If you’re ready to explore the benefits of a latex pillow, try the SureFit Premier Cotton Collection. The pillows are designed with natural, hypoallergenic materials and include a 100% cotton cover. They’re breathable, soft, and offer premium support to the head and neck.

Can’t decide? Try out a hybrid pillow from the PureCare Luxury Cooling Collection. The SoftCell Frio® hybrid pillow combines premium fiber fills with memory foam so you can enjoy antimicrobial benefits and unparalleled head and neck support.

Whether it’s memory foam, latex, or a blend of both, we have exactly what you need to take your sleep to the next level. Talk with a Sleep Expert™ today and find the perfect pillow for you.

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