I’ve Tested a Ton of Cooling Bedding, and This Temperature-Regulating Pillow My Favorite for Side Sleepers

published Aug 10, 2023
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Credit: Minette Hand

When it comes to my bedroom essentials, cooling bedding is a must. It’s not only because I’m a hot sleeper in general, but I also live in humid Louisiana and my room is the warmest in my apartment. It seems like I’m fighting back the heat everywhere I go, and that’s especially true in the summertime. On the plus side, my search for breathable sheets, comforters, blankets, and pillows hasn’t been fruitless. Some of the finds have even been pleasantly surprising!

As a combination sleeper, there’s, fortunately, a wide range of bedding for me to choose from. With pillows in particular, I tend to favor products that cater to stomach and side sleepers. Until sleeping on a pillow that actually stayed cool all night, I didn’t know that was a feature I wanted. Now, it’s a base-level requirement. Lucky for me, it’s one that Sleep Number’s True Temp Pillow fulfills with ease.

Quick Overview

A Quick Look at the True Temp Pillow

  • Polyethylene and polyester cover with 100-percent foam fill
  • Features 37.5 Technology that uses natural volcanic minerals to balance temperature
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Available in three shapes:
    • Classic for stomach and side sleepers
    • Contour for side and back sleepers
    • Ultimate for all types of sleepers
  • Comes in Standard and King sizes
  • CertiPUR-US certified
  • 1-year limited warranty
  • 100-night trial

Design Features That Stand Out

The True Temp Pillow‘s impressive ability to regulate temperature can be credited to the 37.5 technology that’s built into the padded cover. According to Sleep Number, it “deals with heat and humidity by diffusing water vapor out of the sleep system, creating an evaporative cooling effect and removing heat-trapping humidity.” In plain terms, it keeps the night sweats away while you sleep. Additionally, its cooling properties help to reduce temperature-related sleep interruptions so you can rest more comfortably for longer periods of time.

Credit: Britt Franklin

How It Performed

Of the three shapes available, I tested the Classic True Temp Pillow, which has a traditional rounded style. Its thick layer of foam and cushioned cover makes it incredibly supportive and allows it to hold its shape even after many nights of use. It’s also my favorite pillow to use if I’m going to be sitting up in bed since it doesn’t sink in like softer pillows that are filled with down or shredded foam.

For sleeping, the Classic pillow is structured yet soft, which has been good for side sleeping. In fact, I use this pillow two ways depending on what feels the most comfortable in the moment. One method is simply as a standard sleeping pillow. The other is using it as a second pillow to hug if I’m feeling too warm in bed. It provides instant relief in my stuffy bedroom.

Credit: Britt Franklin

What I Loved

  • 37.5 Technology: This innovative technology that gives the True Temp Pillow its wonderfully cool feel has been a game-changer for me as a hot sleeper.
  • High Loft: The Classic True Temp pillow has the rounded shape of a standard pillow and a plush build from its padded cushion and foam core. It provides ample support whether I’m on my stomach or on my side.

Good to Know

The Classic True Temp Pillow can’t be adjusted. The foam core can be removed, but it’s the essence of what makes the Classic pillow what it is. If you’d prefer a True Temp Pillow with an adjustable height, then opt for the Ultimate, which can be tailored to your needs.

Should You Buy the True Temp Pillow

Keep your sleeping habits in mind when selecting a True Temp Pillow, and remember that it will ultimately come down to what’s comfortable for you. For instance, the Classic pillow is listed as ideal for stomach and back sleepers, but I find it cozy for side sleeping (or lounging) as well. If you try the pillow and realize that isn’t a good fit or you’d like to try a different shape, remember that Sleep Number has a 100-night trial to give you some time to figure out which is best for your needs. I’d recommend the True Temp Pillow to those who:

  • Are hot sleepers
  • Need a supportive pillow
  • Need an allergy-friendly pillow
  • Prefer a pillow that holds its shape
  • Prefer their pillows on the firm side

Where to Buy the True Temp Pillow

The True Temp Pillow is available exclusively at Sleep Number in two sizes and three variations, including:

  • Classic, $109.99
  • Contour, $129.99
  • Ultimate, $149.99

And right now, when you buy one pillow, you can get the second one for 50 percent off.