Are gel pillows better than memory foam?

Author: Ms. Clare Kessler DDS  |  Last update: Sunday, September 28, 2025

In terms of cooling efficiency, gel pillows often have the upper hand. The gel absorbs and disperses heat more effectively, keeping the pillow surface cooler. However, memory foam pillows with cooling technologies, like gel-infused foam or open-cell structure, can also provide a cool sleeping surface.

Is gel memory foam or memory foam better?

Gel foam mattresses have a cooler feel than some memory foam mattresses. That's because the top layer of cooling gel is designed to wick away heat and moisture. For those who tend to sleep hot, gel foam mattresses can provide the cool-to-the-touch comfort you need.

What is better, gel seat or memory foam?

Compared to memory foam, a gel enhanced seat cushion is firmer to the touch. Gel-infused seat cushions will also contour to your body, but because they're firmer, you won't get that sinking cushiness inherent in a memory foam cushion.

What pillow is better than memory foam?

Latex foam pillows are the newest option on the block. Created to provide support and comfort with a softer feel than memory foam, these are ideal for those who want an alternative to firmer support. Like memory foam, latex foam pillows are durable, provide spinal alignment, and are very hygienic.

Do hotels use gel pillows?

Alternative Fillings: Besides traditional materials like down and feathers, many 5-star hotels offer pillows with alternative fillings such as microfiber, latex, or gel pillows. These synthetic options are hypoallergenic and often more affordable than natural fills.

Latex vs Memory Foam Pillows - Which Is Right For You?

What kind of pillow do 5 star hotels use?

Hotels with the best pillows typically use a blend of luxury down and feather and they do so for good reason.

What is the difference between gel and memory foam pillows?

Both memory foam and gel pillows offer excellent support. Memory foam contours to the shape of your head and neck, providing personalised comfort. Gel pillows, while firmer, also support good spinal alignment. Your comfort level with the firmness of gel pillows can be a deciding factor here.

What are the negatives of memory foam pillows?

Sweating on a memory foam pillow can be particularly troublesome on hot days when body temperature rises. Even on cooler days, the effect of cell sealing in memory foam can lead to excessive humidity and discomfort during sleep for many people.

What is the healthiest pillow to use?

Unlike your traditional box store pillow, organic pillows are crafted from nontoxic materials, like pesticide-free cotton or chemical-free natural latex, so you'll never have to worry about your health (or the health of the planet) while sleeping.

Are gel pillows good for side sleepers?

Side Sleepers

A pillow that is overly thin or too soft may cause the head to sink excessively, resulting in improper spinal alignment and the risk of neck discomfort. A firmer pillow, such as a gel pillow, can help keep the head and neck in alignment while still providing the necessary comfort.

Why is gel better than foam?

Gel memory foam has more cooling properties compared to a traditional memory foam bed and helps to regulate body temperature. Gel memory foam bounces back a little faster than traditional memory foam.

What are the disadvantages of gel seats?

Cons:
  • Not needed for short rides.
  • Not effective on long ones.
  • Deteriorate over time from compression.

What are the benefits of gel cushions?

Pressure Relief: Gel cushions are designed to distribute weight evenly across the cushion, reducing pressure on bony prominences and preventing pressure injuries. Comfort and Cooling: Gel cushions provide maximum cushioning and support, offering increased comfort for individuals who spend long periods sitting.

What are the disadvantages of memory foam?

Disadvantages of memory foam
  • Poor spinal alignment & sleep posture (how your body parts align with each other). ...
  • Memory foam is very temperature sensitive. ...
  • Getting out of bed. ...
  • Memory foam is particularly bad at a lower density, which is generally what the 'bed in the box' mattresses are composed of.

Is gel or memory foam better for back pain?

Memory foam mattresses mold to a person's body. They are a good option for supporting the spine and reducing lower back pain. However, memory foam also traps heat and can cause night sweats. A gel memory foam mattress contains additional cooling gel to draw heat away from the body.

What type of mattress is best for side sleepers?

We recommend side sleepers choose either a memory foam or hybrid mattress. The common denominator in both types is the presence of multiple comfort layers, which helps relieve pressure in this sleeping position.

What pillow is most recommended by chiropractors?

Chiropractor-Recommended Pillows for Back Pain
  • Memory Foam Pillow. Just like a memory foam mattress conforms to your body, a memory foam pillow supports the shape of your head. ...
  • Body Pillow. A body pillow is a long, narrow pillow. ...
  • Latex Pillow. ...
  • Cervical Pillow. ...
  • Buckwheat Pillow. ...
  • Water Pillow.

Why are Marriott pillows so comfortable?

The new Marriott pillows have been specially developed to offer you the best sleep possible. Made of both duck down and synthetic fibres, this luxurious pillow with generous dimensions will enchant you with its comfort in offering you unfailing head and neck support.

What to avoid when buying a pillow?

Pillow buying mistakes to avoid
  1. Not considering your sleeping position. ...
  2. Not considering any chronic health needs. ...
  3. Not investing enough in your pillows. ...
  4. Not testing pillows out before committing. ...
  5. Not considering your mattress type. ...
  6. Buying the wrong amount of pillows.

Why are people no longer buying memory foam mattresses?

Retention of Heat

One of the most common complaints about memory foam mattresses is that they trap heat and become uncomfortably warm. Memory foam, particularly traditional memory foam, can become quite warm due to its design to respond to body heat and the density of the material.

Why does my memory foam pillow hurt my neck?

Memory Foam

The problem with these pillows is that they are too soft and lack the necessary support for the neck. As a result, the neck cannot maintain its natural alignment and is forced into an unnatural position. This can lead to muscle strain and pain.

Which type of pillow is best for sleeping?

One small study found the latex pillow the most helpful of five types considered (foam contour-shaped, regular foam, polyester, feather, and standard latex.

What is the best alternative to memory foam pillows?

Latex is one of the most durable pillow materials available. Latex pillows feel initially softer to the touch than memory foam pillows. They're nice options for sleepers who like the feel of memory foam, but not its initial firmness.

Is memory foam same as gel?

The difference between gel memory foam and memory foam is simply the gel itself, which acts as a cooling agent to help keep hot sleepers feeling more comfortable. These mattress types are two of the most popular among most mattress brands. Memory foam became popular in the 1990s but couldn't keep people cool at night.

How long do gel memory foam pillows last?

What is the lifespan of a memory foam pillow? Memory foam pillows are much more durable than traditional pillows, like a feather or down. Generally, a good-quality memory foam pillow lasts around two to three years.

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