13 best cooling pillows to help you sleep this summer
When the temperature rises, cooling pillows are our secret weapon for getting a good night’s sleep without flipping endlessly to find the cool side. Whether you're prone to night sweats or just someone who runs a little warm (we see you, hot sleepers), choosing the right pillow can make all the difference. And trust us — not all pillows are created equal. From breathable materials to innovative cooling gel layers and clever temperature regulation, the best cooling pillows out there bring serious sleep tech to the table.
We’ve tested memory foam pillows, gel pillows, and even hybrid pillows that combine multiple materials for the ultimate cooling effect. For side sleepers and back sleepers, adjustability and support are key, while stomach sleepers may prefer something softer and lower in profile. And if you’re dealing with neck pain, the right sleeping position — plus the right pillow — could be a total game changer. It’s not just about softness, either. Some of our top picks feature gel pads, cool touch fabrics or moisture-wicking pillow covers, while others go old-school with organic cotton and wool for natural airflow.
SKIP TO: Do cooling pillows work? | What is the best cooling pillow in the UK? | How do you use a cooling pillow? | Do cooling pillows wear out? | What is the best pillow material to keep cool? | What can I do to make my pillow cooler? | How to wash a cooling pillow | How we tested the best cooling pillows | Our full reviews.
We’re also looking at the practical stuff. Is it machine washable? Does it come with a decent warranty? Is it hypoallergenic or packed with microfibre or down alternative filling? These are the details that matter when you’re shopping for the best memory foam or latex pillow online — especially when you're trawling through Amazon product reviews at 2am, half-melted in your duvet.
So if your pillowcase is constantly damp or your current setup feels more stuffy than snug, it might be time for an upgrade. We’ve rounded up the best cooling pillows for every type of sleeper, including supportive pillows for combination sleepers, breathable picks for warm rooms, and cooling technology that actually lives up to the hype. Think high-quality designs with durability, comfortable sleep, and actual results.
Whether you prefer a firm pillow with a structured feel or something more medium-firm with a little give, there’s something in our list to suit your needs — and your pillow feels. These are the top picks we’d happily sleep on all summer long (and into autumn, if overheating is your default). Just don’t forget to grab a pillowcase that won’t trap the chill.
Meet the expert:
- Hayley Thistleton, Sleep Expert at SleepSeeker.
Do cooling pillows work?
Yes! The clue is in the name, but cool pillows help to keep you cool throughout the night. If you’re a hot sleeper or tend to wake up in a sweat, then a cooling pillow will definitely help. They lower the temperature around your head, neck and shoulders which, in turn, helps you to sleep a lot more soundly.
Some cool pillows are simply crafted from sweat-wicking or temperature-regulating fabrics, which will stop you from overheating or sweating, whereas others are designed with special technology and/or gel inlays which provide a constant cold sensation instead.
How we tested the best cooling pillows
With warmer weather on the horizon, our GLAMOUR testers trailed a range of cooling pillows over a minimum period of 30 days, reviewing them each one on their performance. We looked out for how effective we found the cooling properties, compared firmness levels, and considered value for money when compiling our edit.
We've tested as many pillows in our own homes as possible (and are currently working our way through the rest), outlining the standout features and drawbacks of each one so you can sleep comfortably throughout the night.
Our goal? To cut through the noise and find the best cooling pillows that aren't just comfy but also made to last. We've read what you've been searching for, tested in real life settings and read through hundreds of customer reviews.
For more from GLAMOUR UK's Commerce Writer Mayola Fernandes, follow her on Instagram @mayolafernandess.
Always sleep on the cold side with our round-up of the best cool pillows below.
Specifications:
- Type: Hybrid foam and fibre fill.
- Firmness: Adjustable firmness.
- Size: 70 x 45cm.
- Loft: Adjustable.
- Hypoallergenic? Yes.
- Tested by: Ali Howard, Freelance Contributor.
With cooling technology running through from the breathable cotton outer to the adjustable and breathable open-cell Nanocubes, Simba's Hybrid is our top pick when it comes to staying cool. The Stratos® layer provides temperature regulation as soon as you lay your head on this pillow, meaning that at no point should you feel it overheat. It also features a mesh border for maximum airflow.
The nifty open-cell Nanocubes don’t just let air flow through — you can also add or remove them to adjust the pillow’s height and firmness. So whether you sleep on your side, back or a bit of both, you can tailor it to suit. They’ve got a bit of bounce, too, so the pillow stays feeling full without holding on to heat.
“It’s not the cheapest, but if you’re a hot sleeper or just like your pillow to feel properly breathable, this one really delivers”, says Ali Howard, Freelance Contributor at GLAMOUR. “I loved the way you could adjust the height – and bulk – of the pillow using the Nanocubes, making it practically bespoke.”
Save money on cooling pillows with low and high loft and down alternative pillows with these Simba Sleep discount codes.
Pros & ConsPros- Customisable Nanocubes for personalised comfort
- Washable cover
- Free next day delivery
Cons- Higher price point compared to other options
Slumberdown Cool Max Memory Support Firm Pillow
Specifications:
- Type: Memory foam with cooling properties.
- Firmness: Firm.
- Size: 74 x 48cm.
- Loft: Not disclosed.
- Hypoallergenic? Anti-allergy.
The Slumberdown Cool Max Memory Support Firm Pillow is a solid choice if you’re after a pillow that keeps you cool and supported. It features a memory foam wrap that moulds to your head and neck, relieving pressure and minimising any neck or back pain. The soft CoolMax cover gently wicks away moisture, ensuring your head stays cool throughout the night. This combination of support and cooling makes it particularly suitable for side and back sleepers.
While it doesn't have the high-tech cooling features of more expensive options, the CoolMax cover does a decent job of keeping things fresh. The pillow is firm and holds its shape well, providing consistent support without the need for constant fluffing. It's also anti-allergy, making it a good option for those with sensitivities. Just note that it's sponge clean only, so not the easiest to keep spotless.
Save money on cooling pillows with an ergonomic design for side sleepers with these Argos discount codes.
Pros & ConsPros- Affordable
- Pressure-relieving
Cons- Sponge clean only
Specifications:
- Type: Memory foam.
- Firmness: Medium-firm.
- Size: 60 x 40cm.
- Loft: 12cm.
- Hypoallergenic? Not disclosed.
The Nectar Premium Foam Pillow is all about airflow and adjustability — ideal if you tend to wake up hot. The quilted cover is made with Tencel cooling fabric and finished with a mesh border, so it feels breathable and helps keep things fresh through the night. Inside, it’s filled with shredded memory foam, which gives you that supportive, moulded feel without the heat build-up you sometimes get with solid foam.
You can unzip it and take some of the filling out if you want to tweak the height, which is great if you’re fussy about pillow loft (no judgement). It’s got a medium-firm feel that works well for most back and side sleepers, and it holds its shape nicely. Just a heads-up — it’s spot clean only, so not the most low-maintenance option, but worth it if you’re after that cool, custom fit.
Pros & ConsPros- 2 year warranty
- Free shipping and returns
Cons- Spot-clean only
Specifications:
- Type: Foam and hollowfibre.
- Firmness: Medium-firm.
- Size: 70 x 40cm.
- Loft: 10cm.
- Hypoallergenic? Yes.
Kally Sleep are experts when it comes to everything from pillows for side sleepers to body pillows and even anti-allergy pillows. Hence why we weren't at all surprised to discover how great its cooling pillow is. It has a foam core filling, which is air-permeable and distributes a cool temperature throughout with the help of vents at the sides, and is surrounded by a cool-layer of hollowfibre, which helps to keep your body at an optimal temperature. It also features a pure cotton cover that regulates the surface temperature as it absorbs heat changes.
What sets this one apart is how well it balances structure and softness. The foam core gives it a supportive feel — it springs back into shape without being too firm — while the hollowfibre wrap adds a bit of cushioning for a more classic, cloud-like finish. You don’t get that dense memory foam feel here, which makes it ideal if you like something lighter but still breathable.
The side vents really help with airflow too, so the pillow stays feeling fresh even when the room’s warm. Add in the breathable cotton cover, and you’ve got a cooling setup that works all night — not just for the first few minutes.
Pros & ConsPros- 14 night sleep trial
- Half price pillowcase available when bought together
Cons- Hand wash only
Slumberdown Summer Cool Medium Support Pillow
Specifications:
- Type: Recycled fibre fill pillow.
- Firmness: Available in soft, medium and firm pillows to suit side, back and stomach sleeping positions.
- Size: 74 x 48cm.
- Loft: Not disclosed.
- Hypoallergenic? Non-allergenic.
The Slumberdown Summer Cool Medium Support Pillows are made for warmer nights — light, breathable, and just supportive enough without feeling too firm. The soft-touch cover and airy fibre filling help with airflow and keep things feeling fresh, especially if you’re a back sleeper who likes that gentle lift. They're not packed with high-tech cooling layers, but they definitely take the edge off stuffy nights.
They’re also a win on the practical front — machine washable, tumble dryer friendly, and part of a budget-friendly two-pack. No, they’re not as premium as some of the more specialist cooling pillows out there, but for the price, they’re hard to fault. If you’re after a simple way to stay cool without splashing out, these do the job well.
Pros & ConsPros- Affordable 2 pack
- Suitable for back sleepers
Cons- Lacks high-tech cooling layers, which may be less effective for very hot sleepers
Specifications:
- Type: Visco elastic polyurethane foam with gel powders.
- Firmness: Firm.
- Size: 64 x 40 x 12cm.
- Loft: 12cm.
- Hypoallergenic? Not disclosed.
- Tested by: Lian Brooks, Audience Development Manager.
Why we love it: Designed to support optimal spinal alignment, REM-Fit's cool gel pillow provides excellent pressure relief which is ideal if you're looking for a pillow for neck pain. Alongside gel-infused memory technology, it uses Re-Ax® fibres that absorb excess heat away from the body.
“As a side sleeper, I prefer a pillow that's firm while still being soft and plush to touch, and after testing this pillow for a month it's safe to say that it more than delivered on this front," says Lian Brooks, Audience Development Manager at GLAMOUR. “One pillow gave the ideal amount of head support, with the memory foam offering the perfect give without feeling like I was drowning in it," she adds. “I also found myself consciously noticing the cooling properties and finding it much easier to sleep through even amid recent warmer nights.” she says.
Save when you shop for the best cooling pillows with these Rem-Fit discount codes.
Pros & ConsPros- Supports correct spinal alignment
- 200-night sleep trial
Cons- May be too firm for those preferring a softer feel
Specifications:
- Type: Organic washable wool.
- Firmness: Adjustable.
- Size: 48cm x 74cm.
- Loft: Adjustable.
- Hypoallergenic? Yes, naturally.
Why we love it: The Woolroom organic washable wool pillow is a solid pick if you're after a cooler, more breathable sleep. Filled with traceable British wool and wrapped in quilted organic cotton, it naturally regulates temperature — ideal if you tend to overheat during the night. There’s a reassuring weight to it, and the cotton casing feels soft and breathable against the skin.
You can also adjust the filling to suit your preferred height and firmness, which makes it feel a bit more considered than your average off-the-shelf option. It’s not ultra-squishy, so better for those who like a bit of structure in their pillow. Easy to wash and made from sustainable materials, it’s a good all-rounder with a quieter kind of luxury.
Pros & ConsPros- Made with traceable British wool
- Naturally hypoallergenic
- Adjustable
Cons- Higher price point compared to synthetic alternatives
Specifications:
- Type: Gel-infused, memory foam.
- Firmness: Medium-firm.
- Size: 43cm x 63cm.
- Loft: Unspecified.
- Hypoallergenic? Unspecified.
- Tested by: Ali Howard, Freelance Contributor.
Why we love it: If you’re constantly flipping your pillow to the cool side, this one might just solve that for good. The Opera Premium Cool Gel Pillow is built for keeping things fresh through the night, with a ventilated Cool Weave cover and a layer of gel that actively draws heat away from your head. The memory foam core gives it a supportive, moulded feel — ideal if you like your pillow to hold its shape without feeling too firm.
It’s designed to stay consistently cool, which makes it especially good during warmer months or for anyone who runs hot. The profile sits somewhere between slim and medium, so it works for most sleeping positions. Not the softest of options, but it’s the cooling performance that really makes it worth a spot on your bed.
"This pillow feels reliably sturdy and compact but at the same time, gives you the right amount of squish to properly sink in – and stay put!” says Ali Howard, Freelance Contributor at GLAMOUR. “Its cooling properties are immediately felt as soon as your head hits it, and there's definitely a palpable cool side, so no need to flip”.
Pros & ConsPros- Consistent cooling
- Memory foam core offers supportive feel
- Suitable for most sleeping positions
Cons- Not the softest option, which may not appeal to those preferring a plush pillow
TheraPur® Memory Foam Ice Pillow
Specifications:
- Type: Memory foam.
- Firmness: Firm.
- Size: 74cm x 50cm.
- Loft: 14cm.
- Hypoallergenic? Yes.
- Tested by: Ali Howard, Freelance Contributor.
Why we love it: If you’re after serious cooling power, the TheraPur Memory Foam Ice Pillow goes all in. It’s got a gel layer and a cool-to-the-touch knitted cover (aptly named ActiCool), which work together to keep the surface feeling fresh even when the room’s heating up. No flipping, no fuss — just that crisp, just-changed-the-sheets feeling all night.
The memory foam core is firm and supportive, so it’s especially good for side sleepers or anyone who likes their pillow to hold its shape. It’s on the denser side, so not one for those who prefer a soft, sink-in feel — but if staying cool is your priority, it definitely delivers. Bonus points for being hypoallergenic and generously sized too.
“This one strikes the perfect balance between firmness and support, it also manages that rare feat of being both cool and cosy”, says Ali Howard, Freelance Contributor at GLAMOUR. “It's also more classically shaped than some high-tech memory foam pillows, meaning pillowcases don't slip off easily.”
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Pros & ConsPros- 1 year guarantee
- Firm memory foam core provides excellent support
Cons- Denser feel may not suit those preferring a softer, sink-in pillow
2pk Comfortably Cool Medium Pillows
Specifications:
- Type: Recycled polyester filling.
- Firmness: Medium.
- Size: One size.
- Loft: Not disclosed.
- Hypoallergenic? Not disclosed.
- Tested by: Mayola Fernandes, Commerce Writer.
For a budget-friendly cooling option, this two-pack from M&S does a decent job. The Comfortably Cool pillows are filled with moisture-wicking Dacron® fibres and wrapped in a breathable cotton cover — nothing high-tech, but they stay feeling fresh and airy through the night. You won’t get that instant cool-to-the-touch effect, but they help stop things getting too warm, especially in stuffy rooms.
They’re quite plump straight out of the pack, so you might need slightly roomier pillowcases, but for the price, they’re a reliable, low-maintenance option for cooler, comfier sleep.
“I tend to get really warm at night, and these pillows are wonderfully breathable, it feels like I'm permanently sleeping on the cool side of the pillow," says Mayola Fernandes, Commerce Writer at GLAMOUR. “With a medium firmness, I found they strike the perfect balance between being supportive enough to sleep on while still delivering a that ‘sink in’ sensation," she adds.
Save money on cooling pillows for side sleepers and back sleepers with these M&S discount codes.
Pros & ConsPros- Good value
- Machine washable
Cons- May require slightly roomier pillowcases due to their plumpness
Dunlopillo Super Comfort Pillow
Specifications:
- Type: Latex.
- Firmness: Firm.
- Size: 68cm x 40cm.
- Loft: 17cm.
- Hypoallergenic? Yes.
Why we love it: If you like your pillow firm, supportive and built to last, the Dunlopillo Super Comfort could be the upgrade you’ve been looking for. Made from 100% natural latex, it’s springy without feeling hard, and does a great job of keeping your head and neck aligned. The latex is naturally breathable too, so it helps stop heat getting trapped — a big win for warmer nights or anyone who tends to overheat.
The profile is on the deeper side, which makes it a good fit for side sleepers who need a bit of lift. It also holds its shape really well, so there’s no need to keep fluffing it back into place. And because latex is hypoallergenic and dust mite resistant, it’s a cleaner, lower-maintenance option all round.
It’s not the cheapest pillow out there, but it definitely feels like a premium bit of kit. The removable cotton cover is soft, breathable and easy to wash — and the whole thing feels sturdy enough to see you through years of solid sleep.
Pros & ConsPros- Made from 100% natural latex for breathability
- Maintains shape without the need for fluffing
- 3 year guarantee
Cons- Higher price point
Specifications:
- Type: Cooling effect gel outer cover pad + memory foam pillow.
- Firmness: Not disclosed, but buyers have confirmed that it's a soft-medium pillow.
- Size: 76 x 46cm.
- Loft: 15.9cm.
- Hypoallergenic? Not disclosed.
Why we love it: The Silentnight Cool Touch Pillow doesn’t just hint at coolness — it delivers it, straight away. With a pressure-activated gel pad built into the surface, it gives that instantly chilled feel as soon as your head hits the pillow. No need to flip it over in the middle of the night. The knitted cover is soft and breathable, and the medium support strikes a decent balance between sink-in comfort and structure.
That said, the gel pad won’t be for everyone. Some might find it a bit on the firm (and bumpy) side compared to more traditional styles. But if you like a bit of sensory texture or prefer that properly cool-touch feel, it’s actually quite satisfying. It definitely adds a different dimension to your sleep setup.
It’s low-fuss, too. The cover’s removable and machine washable, and the whole thing feels made to last. Ideal for hot sleepers who want their pillow to actually feel cool – not just promise it.
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Pros & ConsPros- Stays cool throughout the night
- Machine washable cover
Cons- Gel pad may feel firm and bumpy to some users
Specifications:
- Type: Memory foam.
- Firmness: Firm.
- Size: 60cm x 40cm.
- Loft: 12cm.
- Hypoallergenic? Unspecified.
Why we love it: The DUSK Cooling Memory Foam Pillow keeps things refreshingly simple — and, more importantly, cool. One side is made with a specially designed cooling fabric that stays noticeably cooler to the touch, helping to keep night sweats and overheating at bay. Flip it over and you’ve got a softer, breathable jersey side that still feels fresh but with a cosier finish. The memory foam core gives steady support without feeling too firm, moulding to your head and neck for that just-right level of comfort.
It also scores points for being easy to care for — the cover unzips and goes straight in the wash, so it’s low-maintenance too. If you’re looking for a fuss-free way to upgrade your sleep and stop the tossing and turning on warm nights, this one’s well worth a spot on your bed.
Save when you shop for affordable cooling pillows with these Dusk discount codes.
Pros & ConsPros- Machine washable
- Supportive
Cons- No sleep trial period
What is the best cooling pillow in the UK?
Though not technically a dedicated cooling pillow, The Simba Hybrid Pillow uses Stratos® cool-touch tech, a breathable cotton cover and mesh sides to keep airflow going all night. Add in the adjustable Nanocube® filling and it’s a top pick for hot sleepers and night sweats.
Silentnight’s Cool Touch Pillow features a pressure-activated cooling gel pad which helps to absorb excess body heat. It reinforces the natural signals your body recognises as ‘time to sleep’ by creating a colder environment which soothes and relaxes you.
If you want to share the love, Nectar’s Premium Foam Pillow Pair means that both you and whoever you sleep next to can experience a good night’s rest. The memory foam design is fitted with a quilted outer shell, plus Tencel cooling fabric and a breathable mesh border for active ventilation.
How do you use a cooling pillow?
Using a cooling pillow couldn’t be easier — just lie back and let the tech do its thing. Pair it with a breathable pillowcase (think cotton or Tencel for extra airflow) and enjoy that instant cool touch. It helps regulate body temperature, making it ideal for hot sleepers, night sweats, and anyone tired of flipping to the cool side. For maintenance, always check the label — some have a machine washable outer cover, others are spot clean only. To keep things fresh, air it regularly and avoid heavy, heat-trapping fabrics. A simple swap that seriously upgrades your sleep.
Do cooling pillows wear out?
In a word, yes, cooling pillows can wear out over time — especially if they’re made from memory foam or use cooling gel layers. The cooling effect may fade, and the shape can lose its bounce. To keep things supportive and fresh, look for pillows with a removable, machine washable cover and good durability. Most should last around 2-3 years with proper care.
What is the best pillow material to keep cool?
Among the natural material fillings, wool and down are some of the best materials to draw heat out during warmer nights/for hot sleepers. On the flip side, if you prefer a memory foam or synthetic/fibre fill pillow, then look to latex memory foam as it promotes airflow around your head, neck and shoulders.
What can I do to make my pillow cooler?
Sleepseeker's sleep expert Hayley Thistleton told GLAMOUR, “Choosing the right bedding and pillow covers can help keep you cool at night. Polyester tends to hold heat and is water-resistant, meaning if you sweat due to the heat the sheets could stick against your skin.”
Hayley also mentioned that, “when it comes to bedding, light-coloured bedding offers better breathability.” She picked out natural fibres like cotton and linen for the warmer months and, as a final hack “for extra cooling,” she suggested, "freeze your pillowcases in the evening before getting into bed.” Genius!
How to wash a cooling pillow
Cleaning a cooling pillow depends on its design. Many come with a removable outer cover — just zip it off and wash on a cool, gentle cycle. For pillows with memory foam or gel layers, skip the soak and stick to light surface cleaning. Always air dry thoroughly to maintain shape and preserve any built-in cooling tech.
