The Soak&Sleep New Zealand Wool Standard Pillow review—can a pillow be both hypoallergenic and comfortable?

The Soak&Sleep New Zealand Wool Standard Pillow is naturally hypoallergenic and designed to regulate temperature which makes it a great option if you're in need of restful, sneeze-free sleep.

Finding the best pillow can be a tricky task—after all, it’s a major player in you getting a good night’s sleep. And, if you suffer from allergies things can get even trickier, and your list of ‘must-haves’ can become so much longer. You’ll want a pillow free from allergens and easy to clean, yet still comfortable and supportive. 

To help you on your search for a good hypoallergenic pillow, we put the Soak&Sleep New Zealand Wool Standard Pillow to the test. Is it really worth the hype? We definitely think so. And here's why... 

Pillow type and design

Filled with 100% Mitchell wool from New Zealand, this hypoallergenic pillow has temperature regulating properties for a cool and comfortable night's sleep. Wool is naturally hypoallergenic and repels dust, great for those who suffer from allergies. The material is a favorite among outdoors enthusiasts because it’s breathable, no matter what the temperature. The pillow has that same breathability, even in heatwaves, which could be a game-changer if you suffer sleep problems in summer. 

The casing is 100% cotton—another breathable material. It’s also naturally hypoallergenic, making this a great pick for allergy sufferers. Cotton is easy to wash and care for, and it’s biodegradable.

Designed to keep you cool and sneeze-free at night, this pillow also offers medium-to-firm support with a springy feel. You might not realize it, but knowing your top sleeping positions is key when it comes to pillow shopping. The Soak&Sleep pillow is targeted towards back or side sleepers and those who like to sink into their pillow when they lay down at night.

First impressions 

The pillow didn't look like much when I unboxed it. But, as soon as my head hit the pillow, I soon sunk into it. The wool filling makes it feel fluffy and airy—exactly how you would expect a cloud to feel. The cotton casing, on the other hand, feels crinkly but quickly melts away and feels soft to lay on. 

The best part is that it lived up to its breathability and hypoallergenic claims, and I noticed they slept much more comfortably and through the night every time they used this pillow. 

Apart from the allergy-friendly materials, the pillow itself is standard size. But, it does arrive in a clear, plastic tote with rope handles and zipper closure, so you can easily pack it and travel.

How is the Soak&Sleep New Zealand Wool Pillow hypoallergenic?

If you have severe allergies to anything that can sneak its way into your bed (think dust, feather, and mold) this pillow is a must-have.

Despite being allergic, I live with (and love) my cat Grenzo. I’m also highly allergic to pretty much everything else: grass, trees, dust, mold—the list goes on. My allergist recommended I get serious about my sleep hygiene, and so now I take my fabric choices very seriously. 

Wool and cotton are both naturally hypoallergenic materials and they’re easy to take care of. It’s an easy choice for me! The Soak&Sleep New Zealand Wool Pillow regulated my temperature as I slept and kept me sneeze-free. 

Is it good value for money? 

If you're an allergy sufferer, I'd recommend splashing out on this pick. The Soak&SleepNew Zealand Wool Pillow isn't cheap at $110/£80 for a pair, but it's worth the investment for a good night's sleep. It's also made with the environment in mind, with eco-friendly packaging and sustainability-sourced wool, so it's worth putting your money into this product.

Soak&Sleep does not offer a trial period for this product, but the pillow does come with a five-year guarantee should a manufacturing issue pop up that needs to be resolved. 

How easy is the Soak&Sleep New Zealand Wool Pillow to clean?

As someone who has relied solely on a protector and a pillowcase to keep my pillow fresh (and isn’t really up to speed on how to wash pillows properly), this pillow’s easy care is a big deal to me. 

As the pillow is made of wool and cotton, it’s super easy to clean. Throw it in the washing machine at 30°C and tumble dry on low. That’s it. Soak&Sleep recommends washing your pillow every six to 12 months. Even though it’s easy to clean, a pillow protector is still recommended to avoid any stains or spills. 

Soak&Sleep New Zealand Wool Pillow drawbacks

As someone who usually uses a firmer pillow, it took me some time to get used to this soft and airy option. When I lay down for the first time, the stuffing puffed up around my head and it felt like I was sinking into the pillow. 

For this reason, the pillow felt almost flat at first. Therefore, if you prefer a bouncier or firmer option this might not be the one for you. I persevered and soon came to love the cloud-like feeling of this pillow. So much so, I don't think I'll ever go back!

W&H's verdict 

The Soak&Sleep New Zealand Wool Pillow is right up there alongside other premium options on the market. It’s naturally hypoallergenic, easy to wash, and above all, comfortable. What more could you ask for in a pillow? 

With excellent breathability, it will keep you cool as you sleep, creating a little micro-climate so you're at the perfect temperate for rest. You can rest easy on this pillow knowing that it’s made with natural, sustainable wool and cotton. If you're willing to invest and want an option that will repel allergens, this versatile, low-maintenance pillow is the one for you.