A cooling pillow has proven effective in helping one reporter sleep through UK heatwaves without relying on fans. The Dreams TheraPur Memory Foam Ice Pillow, priced at £80, kept the user cooler throughout the night and improved sleep quality compared to a standard memory foam pillow.
Reporter's search for a cooler night
With average adults managing just three days a week of quality sleep, according to the Mental Health Foundation, soaring temperatures make restless nights worse. The reporter tried opening windows early to let cool air circulate and drawing blinds to block sunlight, but these measures only marginally reduced the temperature. Fans were also tested but seemed to redistribute warm air rather than cool the room.
This led to discovering cooling bedding, specifically the Dreams TheraPur Memory Foam Ice Pillow, which was tested over several recent heatwaves. The pillow features a layer of cooling ActiGel foam for pressure relief and temperature regulation, an ActiCool cover, and a responsive memory foam core. It also comes in a repurposable storage bag.
Cooling performance and comfort
The pillow delivers a noticeable cooling effect, replicating the feeling of freshly laundered sheets. Alternating between the TheraPur and a usual memory foam pillow, the reporter noticed considerable improvement in sleep quality. The TheraPur kept the user markedly cooler, and skin felt refreshed upon waking. It was breathable and lightweight for a memory foam pillow.
The most notable cooling sensation occurs at the start of the night. While the user grew warmer as the night progressed, they never became uncomfortably hot or sweaty. This makes it suitable for those who tend to overheat during sleep.
Value and alternatives
Despite the £80 price tag, the pillow is recommended for those seeking memory foam comfort without the heat. Summarised in three words: supportive, comforting, and cooling. For budget-conscious buyers, the Silentnight Restore Cooling Copper Pillow is available on Amazon for £20, reduced from £35. M&S also offers a two-pack of Stay Cool Pure Cotton Pillows at £35, which is £17.50 per pillow.
