I test mattresses and pillows for a living—a proper career choice for someone who regularly suffers back injuries, grinds his teeth, and heats up like a car engine on a sweltering summer day. Consider me a modern moderate, always looking for sleep products that feel “just right.”
So imagine my delight when I rest my weary head on Cool, Ambient, and Customizable No. sleeping pillow true temperature(Opens in a new tab) (from $109.99). If you balk at the price, I understand – why would you spend so much for a price Pillow? However, sleep is one of the most important investments you can make, especially as it affects your overall health and well-being.
After sleeping on the Sleep Number True Temp pillow for two weeks, I can confidently say that it was worth every penny. The tension in my shoulders dissolved and I could barely break a sweat. However, the most impressive takeaway is the noticeable improvement in my teeth grinding habit, which has earned this pillow my orthodontist’s stamp of approval. (One orthodontist agrees? Sure, let’s go with that.)
How I Chose My Sleep Number True Temp Pillow
To find my perfect sleep number pillow, i took short quiz(Opens in a new tab). As a side/stomach sleeper with a lot of tension in my upper body, the results suggested I go for the True Temp Ultimate Pillow. Although the test didn’t ask about temperature regulation, I was drawn to the True Temp pillow’s cooling properties because I sometimes get hot at night.
The Sleep Number True Temp pillow has three versions:
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The Classic is similar to a traditional pillow and caters to both back and stomach sleepers.
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The contour has a groove in the middle to better support side and back sleepers.
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The Ultimate is a customizable pillow with three removable foam inserts, allowing all types of sleepers to adjust the loft and feel as needed.
Since I tend to sleep in multiple positions, the Ultimate’s versatility is likely why it’s the best sleeping number pillow for me.
The Sleep Number True Temp Ultimate Pillow is customizable to fit all types of sleepers.
Credit: Allison Baretta/Mashable
What is the Sleep Number True Temp pillow made of?
All Sleep Number True Temp pillows have a foam core, with the Ultimate version featuring three removable foam inserts: two flat panels plus a dual-height comfort layer for the head-level fit and support you need. Additional accessories can be stored in the included travel bag. The Sleep Number uses CertiPUR-US foam that has low ozone-depleting emissions, and won’t negatively affect indoor air quality either.
The cover is a polyethylene-polyester blend that includes Sleep Number’s 37.5 technology, which the brand says contains active particles of volcanic materials(Opens in a new tab) To help the pillow adjust to the ideal temperature and humidity levels for your body. It’s cool to the touch and designed to maintain that feeling even after you wash it off. (Cover is machine washable in cold water and tumble dry low; foam inserts are spot clean only.)
You can add/remove Ultimate Pillow layers.
Credit: Allison Baretta/Mashable
How the Sleep Number True Temp pillow changed my sleep in 2 weeks
The My Sleep Number True Temp Ultimate Pillow arrived in a fabric case, which can be used for travel or to store extra layers of foam. After unpacking it, I immediately tested the pillow to determine if I needed to remove any seams. I am primarily a side sleeper, so I based my ideal feeling on this position. Fortunately, the default stability and upstairs were perfect for me without the need for any adjustments. However, your mileage will vary here, and if your sleep needs change frequently, expect regular adjustments.
I’ve been dealing with sore shoulders due to a lack of support from my previous shredded foam adjustable pillow. The contoured foam of the sleeping number pillow fits precisely at the angle between my chin and shoulders, and the two flat foam layers add the perfect amount of softness. This resulted in less pressure on my neck and shoulders when sleeping on the side, which in turn also helped reduce grinding of my teeth because I no longer slept on a pillow that was too high, which is a common cause of Nocturnal bruxism(Opens in a new tab).
The cooling sensation of the True Temp Cover lasted for weeks after unpacking, even after washing it. I didn’t wake up with a sweaty nape or forehead, no matter how much I packed during some cold March nights. At first, I slept on the pillow alone. During the second week I added a standard polycotton pillowcase. The extra layer of fabric didn’t limit the True Temp cover’s cooling capabilities, but it did slightly reduce the contouring effect of the pillow because the pillow case didn’t fit properly. (It might be better to use one of the Sleep number pillow protectors(Opens in a new tab).)
The Sleep Number True Temp pillow has changed my sleep for the better, but there are some drawbacks. A chemical-like smell lingered for a few days after opening the can. (This kind of gassiness is typical of foam bedding, and while generally harmless, it’s still not fun.) However, I do not recommend the True Temp Ultimate Pillow for stomach sleepers. The comfort layer is too high and the flat foam boards are too soft, which can make it hard to find the right balance.
So did the Sleep Number test make the right recommendation for me? Yes, he was on the money. (It also helps if I know exactly what I need in a pillow.) But it’s not a perfect system—trying a pillow on for yourself is the best way to see if it’s the right one. Fortunately, Sleep Number offers a 100-night trial plus free returns or exchanges if you’re not satisfied.
Is the Sleep Number True Temp Pillow Worth It?
With a retail price of between $110 and $180, this is an obvious (and fair) question to ask. Based on my experience, the Sleep Number True Temp Ultimate Pillow is a good investment for side or back sleepers looking for customized support and pressure relief without the mess of shredded foam. The Sleep Number’s 37.5 may sound eye-popping, but the cooling cover provides exceptional temperature regulation, making it a great choice for anyone who sleeps hot.
But what do other sleepers think? The True Temp pillow has received high marks from Sleep Number customers, with a score of 4.6 stars out of 5 from nearly 3,000 reviews as of April 2023. Pillow lovers love the cooling cover’s calming effects, as well as the easy-to-customize loft and feel through the foam inserts. . Like me, many Sleep Number shoppers claim that True Temp pillows have relieved back and neck pain.
If you are a stomach sleeper, the traditional method (not customizable) Sleep No. True Temp Classic Pillow(Opens in a new tab) It might fit better. Rather, it is more affordable Brooklinen Marlow pillow(Opens in a new tab) (starting at $65) Provides adequate comfort for front sleepers. It offers adjustable stiffness and loft via a pair of fasteners, eliminating the hassle of searching for storage space for extra stuffing.
For me, the Sleep Number True Temp Ultimate has become my favorite pillow. I find it helps me fidget less at night – more often I stay by my side because the contoured design is so comfortable. It’s also nice to wake up each morning without any nagging pain or pools of sweat. Best of all, it doesn’t have to be brushed on daily, so if you’re lazy or forgetful like me, you’ll appreciate the minimal maintenance required for effectiveness.