In the 1960s, NASA researchers were exploring ways to keep test pilots cushioned and protected during flights. In the course of the project, the scientists invented a foam material with a “slow spring-back” that contained billions of open heat-sensitive cells. Named “temper foam,” the material was used by NASA in seat cushions for space shuttles and planes throughout the 1970s.

NASA went on to make the material’s formula available for commercial use and temper foam began to appear in padding in football helmets, shoe insoles, car seats, ergonomic office chairs, and more. Temper foam was of particular interest to the founders of Tempur-Pedic, whose scientists tested and enhanced the foam to increase its adaptability, heat dissipation, and durability.

The result is TEMPUR® material, a supportive material that is uniquely formulated to respond to the user’s weight, body shape, and temperature. TEMPUR® material is used in all of Tempur-Pedic’s pillows, which come in a range of options to suit different body sizes and sleeping positions.

Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Neck Pillow

Designed for back or side sleepers, the Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Neck Pillow is a firm pillow that is ergonomically contoured to provide proper alignment, support, and comfort. The TEMPUR® material follows the natural curve of the body, adapting to the user’s shape while maintaining its own to help relax and support neck and shoulder muscles during sleep.

Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Align ProMid Pillow

The Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Align ProMid Pillow is a soft, medium-profile pillow that has been engineered to suit back sleepers. This pillow features a dual-sided design and contains two layers of TEMPUR® material in different thicknesses, allowing the user to switch between support options by simply flipping the pillow. The Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Align ProMid Pillow fits in a queen-size pillowcase, and has breathable performance fabric on one side and a premium knit cooling cover on the other for additional comfort.

Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Align ProHi Pillow

Made for side sleepers, the Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Align ProHi Pillow is a high-profile pillow that cradles the head, neck, and shoulders for comfortable support. The TEMPUR® technology inside the pillow allows it to conform to the user’s body over time while ensuring the pillow doesn’t flatten or lose its shape. The Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Align ProHi Pillow comes with a soft, removable cover and like the Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-Align ProMid Pillow, it fits in a queen-size pillowcase.

What does a Tempur-Pedic pillow feel like?

A new Tempur-Pedic pillow may feel firmer than what you’re used to at first if you have become accustomed to sleeping on a traditional pillow. Over the course of a few weeks, the TEMPUR® cells in a new Tempur-Pedic pillow open gradually so they can optimally adapt to the user’s weight and temperature. During this time, the Tempur-Pedic pillow begins conforming to the neck and head to provide comfortable support that is suited to the user’s preferred sleeping position.

Can you wash Tempur-Pedic pillows?

Tempur-Pedic’s TEMPUR-Neck Pillow, TEMPUR-Align ProMid Pillow, and TEMPUR-Align ProHi Pillow feature hypoallergenic covers that are removable and washable. It’s recommended to wash Tempur-Pedic pillow covers with mild detergent in cold water, then hang to dry.

The pillows themselves are not washable as TEMPUR® material is very sensitive to liquid. Instead, remove the pillowcase and cover and roll the pillow up, then unroll. Repeat these steps, rolling in the opposite direction. This allows the material within the pillow to breathe and absorb fresh air.

How long do Tempur-Pedic pillows last?

The TEMPUR® material within Tempur-Pedic’s pillows is engineered to maintain its shape, preventing it from flattening over time. To prolong the lifespan of a Tempur-Pedic pillow, wash the removable covers regularly (following the care instructions), and air the pillow out as needed.

Who can benefit from a Tempur-Pedic pillow?

People with neck pain

Sleeping on the side or the back is recommended for people who experience neck pain. Both of these positions put less strain on the neck than stomach sleeping, which forces the back to arch and the neck to turn to the side. A supportive pillow can help to foster proper spinal alignment, which may reduce aches and pains associated with poor alignment of the spine.

People who snore

Snoring occurs when air travels past relaxed tissues such as the tongue, soft palate, and airway as a person breathes. The airway is narrowed by the sagging tissues, which vibrate and produce the sound we recognize as snoring. Side-sleeping is often recommended for people who snore. In the back-sleeping position, the tongue and soft palate can fall backwards and obstruct the airway, leading to snoring. A pillow that supports the head and neck in a position that keeps the airways open may also help to alleviate snoring.

People who want to improve their sleep posture

In the back-sleeping position, the neck requires the right support to allow it to align properly with the spine — it’s also important to support the hip to knee area and the lower back. For side sleepers, the head and neck must have adequate support to be neutrally aligned. In neutral alignment (or neutral body posture) the body is in its most relaxed and natural state, and unnecessary pressure on the spine is reduced. A pillow that encourages correct spinal alignment may be beneficial to those wishing to improve their sleep posture.

Because Tempur-Pedic pillows are designed with different sleeping positions in mind, it’s important to consider your preferred sleeping position when choosing a pillow. Consult the size specifications of the product to find the pillow best suited to your body size and shape.