How to Solve Your Stiff Neck – All Natural Shredded Latex Pillow
I’ve always been a down pillow lover until my stiff neck sent me in search of a new option. I found a shredded latex pillow and now I’m hooked. In fact, I love it so much that I try to travel with it as often as possible. This from someone who used to find humor in people packing their own pillows on trips. I’m careful to hide my pillow from the hotel maid so it doesn’t get confused with the hotel’s pillows.
Initially, I was skeptical about latex because I worried about off-gassing and added chemical flame retardants. I didn’t realize that I could buy 100% all natural latex that wasn’t treated with added flame retardants that wouldn’t off-gas.
What to Look for When Buying a Shredded Latex Pillow
When buying a shredded latex pillow, the key is to look for pillows made with 100% Natural Latex (not a blend of natural and synthetic compounds like most other latex on the market).
Read the fine print!
Manufacturers can advertise Natural Latex even if their product is a blend of natural (30%) and synthetic (70%). So, if you don’t see 100% advertised, then the pillow is probably a blend including more synthetic latex than natural.
Why does 100% Natural Matter When it Comes to Latex?
Natural Latex is a milky product that comes from rubber tree plants grown in tropical locations worldwide. If you’re like me, you are probably surprised that Latex is a natural product and not always man-made.
The raw product is composed of water, latex and natural byproducts which is made into Latex foam. 100% Natural Latex produces a soft and elastic foam which is naturally antimicrobial.
Since it’s antimicrobial, Natural Latex inhibits mold and mildew growth and is dust-mite resistant. It also absorbs moisture, circulates air and regulates heat which helps you sleep more soundly.
On the other hand, synthetic Latex is a man-made compound called Styrene-Butadiene (SBR). While molecularly identical to Natural Latex, it is derived primarily from petroleum, and so it is not as clean as Natural Latex. Synthetic Latex is firmer than Natural Latex.
Not only are there concerns about the synthetic Latex off-gassing, but also concerns about comfort. Customer reviews show lower comfort for synthetic Latex compared to All Natural Latex pillows.
Make Sure the Pillow Cover is 100% Organic Cotton
It’s a good idea to pay attention to the pillow covering as well as the stuffing. You’ll want to make sure your pillow has a 100% organic cotton cover, preferably GOTS certified.
Another important feature is a zipper which will allow you to remove the latex and wash the cotton cover.
Good Head & Neck Support
Shredded latex pillows offer good head and neck support, are long-lasting and extremely versatile.
Tired of repeatedly readjusting your down pillow?
You’ll love shredded latex pillows because unlike a down pillow, they won’t compress over the course of the night, meaning sounder sleep.
All Natural Latex pillow users report less neck pain due to consistent support and give the pillow high marks for holding it shape and molding to head and neck movements.
Great for side sleepers but back sleepers also enjoy it. If you’re a stomach sleeper, this pillow isn’t for you.
Check out our favorite All Natural Shredded Pillow.