In this post, we’ll dive into what makes a pillow “cooling,” explore top materials and options, and help you find the perfect pillow for a restful, sweat-free sleep.

Why Do Some People Sleep Hot?

First, a quick science check: your body naturally lowers its core temperature to signal it’s time to sleep. But if your environment or your bedding traps too much heat, that cooling process gets disrupted. Factors like memory foam mattresses, warm climates, hormonal changes, or just your natural metabolism can all lead to overheating.

Enter: cooling pillows. They're designed to wick away heat, allow airflow, and stay cooler than traditional pillows.

What to Look For in a Cooling Pillow

Not all “cooling” pillows are created equal. Here are the key features hot sleepers should look for:

1. Breathable Materials

• Gel-infused memory foam: Disperses heat and contours to your head and neck.
  
  

• Latex foam: Naturally cooler and more breathable than traditional memory foam.
  
  

• Down alternative: Light and airy, often paired with cooling covers.
  
  

2. Ventilation or Airflow Design

• Perforated cores or mesh panels help increase air circulation.
  
  

3. Cooling Covers

• Covers made from cool-to-the-touch fabrics like Tencel, bamboo, or phase-change materials (PCM) that adjust to your body temperature.
  
  

Top Cooling Pillow Picks (2025)

Here are a few top-rated options for hot sleepers: