Love memory foam pillows, but fear the strange material you’re sleeping on? Your caution’s reasonable — because synthetic memory foam pillows can contain everything from VOCs to toluene — better known among green salon-goers as one of the three scary chemical that many nail polish companies have been convinced to take out of their products, thanks to the urgings of environmental health groups.
But there is a greener memory foam pillow option too — made by a company called Essentia. I discovered Essentia when the company debuted its Santa Monica store last November — and gave me its Classic pillow to review.
How does a natural memory foam feel? A lot like “regular” memory foam — except you’ll encounter none of the chemical smells the less-green pillows come with. According to Essentia, its memory foam’s made mainly with rubber tree sap, using an individual molded process that eliminates glues — which are often known to contain toxic chemicals. Essentia’s website contains a rundown of the differences between its natural memory foam and other synthetic foams, along with a toxic materials comparison.
I’ve been sleeping on the Essentia Classic for months now, and love its comfortable give. According to Essentia, its pillows are more breathable and conform to the body faster. I’m not sensitive enough to have felt much of a difference on that front, but do think this pillow feels plusher than my old, ungreen memory foam pillow did.
Essentia’s Classic weighs a hefty — and long-lasting — five-pounds, and comes with a washable, striped organic cotton zippered cover. The pillow’s four inches tall — but obviously sinks a bit once you rest your head on it, so high-pillow types may want to stack up or opt for the slightly thicker Forma Spa design. Essentia also offers an Ergonomic design for more neck support.
Green pillows don’t come cheap; Essentia’s pillows range from $149 to $249 each. Fan the company on Facebook — or pick up the pillow with your Prius — to get 10 percent off your purchase. Got the money to get a whole bed out of memory foam? Check out Essentia’s gorgeous mattresses online or at Essentia’s Santa Monica store on Main Street.
Essentia — Santa Monica. 2430 Main St., Santa Monica. 310.450.7819.
I recently purchased a memory foam pillow and right away noticed the toxic smell – I put two pillow cases on it to curb the odor- but I still fear the toxic chemicals! My chiropractor told me I need this type of pillow so I felt I had to buy it – but now I am going to opt for the non toxic version – even if it costs more. In the long run I have no doubt it will be better for me and better for planet earth! (the only question is, what do I do with the toxic one I just purchased?)
Comment by KW — June 14, 2011 @ 11:50 am