Does the Eli and Elm cooling side sleeping pillow help me sleep better?

Pillows are a modern convenience, designed to help those who sleep in a specific manner–like a side sleeping pillow or a cooling pillow–and to provide additional comforts–like cooling. But are they really worth it?

This pillow from Eli and Elm has a unique, rainbow-esque shape designed for side and hot sleepers. I tested it out over a week of sleeping at home and at my Grandma’s home (and my mom tested it, too). Find out what I enjoy about this pillow–and what I don’t.

Why am I reviewing this cooling side sleeping pillow?

I am a racewalker, which is, well, walking fast but with specific technique which requires posture to be spot-on, and, as a side sleeper, this is sometimes not the easiest thing to do. I also sleep hot, and my bedroom is the second warmest room in our house, right after the attic. Having a pillow that keeps me cool and my spine aligned while I sleep sounds like a good thing.

(Note from mom: Jack is more than just a racewalker, he is an elite racewalker, and has earned All American at four Junior Olympics during the course of the past 3 years.)

What is this cooling pillow and what does it offer?

The Eli and Elm Cooling Side Sleeper Pillow claims to be ergonomic, help you fall asleep faster, stay asleep longer, and wake up feeling more refreshed. It is 17 inches by 29 inches and is shaped in an arch, so a normal pillowcase won’t fit it exactly right.

My pillow came with a pillowcase, which is great except that my mom keeps two sets of sheets for each bed. One pillowcase for one pillow means that there’s no backup clean pillowcase on hand, and we would need to purchase another one for about $30.

It also has latex noodle fill technology, which supports optimal airflow for a cooler pillow. The pillow is also OKEO-TEX certified.

Does Eli and Elm deliver on the claims?

Yes, and no. It is comfortable to lay on as a side sleeper, it does conform to my head and neck, and it does seem to be cooling. However, I left something out when I said I am a side sleeper. I also move around in my sleep, which this pillow does not allow due to its shape.

Unfortunately, for me at least, the answer to this question is no. Using this uniquely shaped pillow, I did not see any changes in how I sleep. And it is heavier than any other pillow I’ve used.

Do I recommend this side sleeping pillow?

With all of what I said previously accounted for, there are positives. This pillow clearly is for people who do not move in their sleep, who are side sleepers, and who are hot sleepers. If you fit that description, I would recommend you buy Eli and Elm’s Cooling Side Sleeper Pillow and buy an extra pillowcase while you are shopping, too.

Overall, I would rate this pillow a 7/10. I acknowledge this pillow is for side sleepers, but it just is not for me. I would like to try a side sleeping pillow that allows for movement during the night, or is made in a way that would decrease my movement and keep my spine in alignment. If you know of such a pillow, let us know in the comments below.

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