What material should I buy a pillow from? Pillow filling - how to choose natural or synthetic according to characteristics and prices. Healthiest

In order to choose the best pillow filling, you need to not only evaluate its convenience and sleeping comfort. You need to know about the important properties of the material, the features of its care and service life. In addition, there are a huge number of varieties of pillows themselves, so the filling must be selected so that it meets the functional purpose of each of them.

Swan down filling for pillow

Artificial swan down

Currently, unusually warm and light pillows with swan down do not contain natural material at all. All of them are made from artificial down, which is superior in its characteristics to its natural counterpart. The structure is twisted spirals and polyester fiber balls, which are treated with silicone.

Advantages of artificial swan filler

Among the advantages of artificial swan down are:

Long term of continuous operation. The material retains its shape, lends itself to numerous washes and does not fall into lumps inside the pillow.
Hypoallergenic. The absence of natural fluff in the filler guarantees the impossibility of allergic reactions even in people prone to this.
Easy to care for. A pillow with artificial swan down can be washed in a machine on a delicate cycle (30 degrees).
No foreign odors. The pillow does not absorb, which means it does not retain even the most persistent aromas.

Disadvantages of artificial swan filler

The disadvantages of artificial swan down include:

poor hygroscopicity. The filler does not absorb moisture, so using such a pillow will be extremely uncomfortable for people with excessive sweating;
electrification. All synthetic materials have this unpleasant property.

Care and cost of an artificial swan down pillow

The swan down pillow can be washed on a delicate cycle in an automatic machine at a water temperature of no higher than 30 degrees. The use of abrasive products is prohibited. In addition, the product cannot be ironed.

You can buy a pillow made of artificial swan down (sizes 70*70) at a price of 500 to 900 rubles. This is an affordable price, which explains the interest of buyers in this product.

Natural swan down

Compared to artificial ones, natural swan down has more disadvantages than advantages. Its service life is much shorter, it is susceptible to the fact that mites quickly appear in it, which cause skin diseases.

A pillow with natural filling is difficult to care for. There is a high probability that after washing the fluff will turn into clumps. In addition, taking into account the tendency of modern people to allergies, a swan down pillow can become a real threat to health.

Do not confuse swan down with goose down, because it is much tougher. Some elements may come out of the pillowcase and tingle your face unpleasantly.

When choosing natural swan down, think about the fact that it is impossible to collect it from a living bird. Perhaps several beautiful white birds had to be put under the knife to make the pillow.

natural swan down and its imitation

Feather pillow filling

A feather pillow is a traditional option. At the same time, the feathers of geese, swans and turkey are mainly used for its production. Due to the characteristics of the material (the feathers do not fit tightly together), the effect of air space inside is created, which gives the product good thermal insulation properties.

Pros of a feather pillow

Feather as a filler gives the pillow the following qualities:

lightness and elasticity;
long service life (from 10 to 20 years);
hypoallergenic due to special treatment of the feather;
environmental friendliness;
hygroscopicity;
comfort when using.

All of the listed advantages relate to “new generation” pillows, because they are not possessed by the products we inherited from our grandmothers and great-grandmothers.

Cons of feather pillows

The only disadvantage of feather filler is the inability to clean it yourself. You will have to take the pillow to a special place where it will be processed and restored. You may only need to periodically dry it in the sun to prevent the appearance of mites and dust.

Care and cost of a feather pillow

The feather pillow is dried in the sun or sent for cleaning.

If you clean it regularly, then it will not harbor any tiny insects that could harm the owner.

The minimum cost of a feather pillow is about 500 rubles. However, high-quality safe filler is still available in those options that cost more - up to 3,000 rubles.

Cotton pillow filling

Pillows with cotton filling are always in high demand, because it is one of the most suitable materials for bedding.

Advantages of cotton filling

The advantages of cotton pillows include:

environmental friendliness;
natural composition;
hygroscopicity;
good thermoregulation;
hypoallergenic.

Disadvantages of cotton filling

Cotton pillows sometimes absorb moisture, but cannot evaporate it. Because of this, they become damp and must be dried frequently.

Care and cost of pillows with cotton filling

Cotton pillows are machine washable at 40 degrees. They must be dried in a horizontal position.

The range of prices is very impressive - from 200 to 3500 rubles.

Holofiber filling for pillow

Holofiber is a non-woven material that consists of cavities filled with air and formed by polyester fibers. These fibers are arranged vertically or diagonally and are most often twisted into spirals.

Advantages of holofiber for pillows

A pillow made from the popular holofiber has many advantages:

The only drawback of the pillow may be its hardness, which for some people is an advantage.

Care and cost of holofiber pillows

The holofiber pillow can be machine washed at 40 degrees.

Affordable cost makes holofiber pillows very popular. It costs around 600 rubles (pillow sizes 50*50 and others).

holofiber

Bamboo pillow filling

Bamboo natural filler is obtained by chemically processing split fiber from young bamboo shoots. At the same time, you should not be afraid of the impact of harmful substances on the body during sleep, they are all removed, so the filler may well be safe and can be considered one of the most environmentally friendly.

Benefits of bamboo filling

A bamboo pillow has a number of positive qualities:

elasticity;
hygroscopicity;
breathability;
durability and strength;
ease of care;
hypoallergenic;
bactericidal properties. It will never harbor ticks due to the special properties of the fiber.

Disadvantages of a bamboo pillow

The characteristics of the filler give the pillow the unpleasant ability to wrinkle and lose its original shape. Air quickly leaves it, filling the space between the fibers. In addition, it absorbs moisture well and in a humid microclimate of the room can often seem damp.

Care and cost of a pillow with bamboo filling

The pillow can be placed in an automatic washing machine and selected on the delicate cycle. After this, it is dried while ensuring good air circulation.

The upper limit of the price of a bamboo pillow does not exceed 1000 rubles.

Ball filler for pillow

Ball filler will not be used for pillows intended for sleeping. It is used to make products called “anti-stress pillows”, soft frameless furniture, nursing pillows, maternity pillows and toys. Expanded polystyrene granules consist of 98% air, enclosed in a thin shell.

Advantages of ball filler

Since products filled with polystyrene beads are not used for sleep, let’s consider their advantages, which are important when using pillows for pregnant women and toys for children:

Such pillow toys for children wonderfully develop fine motor skills, and for pregnant women the ability to remember the shape is important - the “memory effect”.

Disadvantage of ball filler

The only drawback of the ball filler may be a slight rustling sound, which can be clearly heard if you lie on the pillow and turn around. In addition, there is a slight danger that the pillow will tear and the balls will be scattered on the floor. However, the probability is very low.

Care and cost of a pillow with ball filler

Products with polystyrene foam are washed in an automatic machine on a delicate cycle with a small amount of powder without spinning. Dry with good air circulation.

It is impossible to indicate the maximum price of the product; it depends on the quality, size and design of the pillow.

Silk pillow filling

Silk filling for pillows is obtained from silkworm fibers stretched and cut in a special way. This gives it the right to be called a natural material.

Pros of a pillow with silk filling

Features of the origin of raw materials for silk pillow filling give them a number of positive properties:

The only drawback that may prevent you from purchasing a product filled with silk is its high cost.

Care and cost of a pillow with silk filling

Silk pillows can be washed in a machine on a delicate cycle. If it seems to you that the filler has gone astray, then this is not a cause for concern. After complete drying, you need to fluff the pillow properly.

The price of a pillow filled with silk has a lower limit of 1,500 rubles (pillow dimensions 50*50) and can reach 5,000 rubles or more.

Buckwheat pillow filler

Pillows made from buckwheat husks have become popular in Japan. Based on research, it was revealed that this is a medicinal filler because it can have a beneficial effect on the human body. First of all, this concerns the issue of spinal health. In addition, its use reduces the severity of headaches and muscle pain.

Advantages of buckwheat pillows

Natural buckwheat filling for pillows has the following properties:

massage effect;
aromatherapy effect;
hygroscopicity;
hypoallergenic;
antibacterial properties.

Orthopedic pillows made from buckwheat husks are approved by experts as a means of straightening the spine.

For allergy sufferers, this pillow is an ideal safe option.

Disadvantages of buckwheat pillows

Among the disadvantages of buckwheat pillows are:

rigidity;
heaviness;
short service life - 2 years;
rapid loss of shape;
characteristic rustling sound.

Care and cost of a pillow filled with buckwheat

Buckwheat sleeping pillows cannot be washed; they can only be vacuumed and dried in the sun.

A medium-sized buckwheat pillow 60*60 can be purchased at a price from 500 to 900 rubles.

buckwheat husk

Silicone pillow filling

Silicone filler is designed for allergy sufferers because it is a completely non-allergenic material. It is created by processing polyester. The special softness and fluffiness of such products attracts the possibility of a comfortable sleep.

Pros of silicone pillows

Among the advantages of silicone filler:

good breathability;
hygroscopicity;
antibacterial effect;
repetition of the anatomical structure of the body;
elasticity;
thermoregulatory properties.

Cons of silicone filler

Silicone filler accumulates static electricity, which is its significant drawback.

Care and cost of a pillow with silicone filling

The silicone pillow is easy to machine wash at 40 degrees. Ensure complete drying.

The price of a pillow varies from 500 to 800 rubles.

Linen pillow filling

Linen pillows are natural and environmentally friendly. They consist of fluffed fibers that are separated from the pillowcase by a layer of needle-punched linen. The filler is not susceptible to rotting or mold.

Pros of flax filler

The advantages of the filler include:

hypoallergenic;
antibacterial properties;
elasticity;
breathability;
moisture removal;
long service life - up to 5 years.

We often don't even think about it, but the pillow determines the quality of sleep. The choice of this product largely depends on personal preference: some people like to sleep on their side, while others can only sleep on their back. Pillow filling plays a significant role, since the hardness, size, flexibility and shape of products ultimately depends on it.

The filling can be either natural or artificial. We will look at which pillows are best to buy in this article.

A variety of natural fillers.

Duck or goose down, cotton wool or sheep's wool, bamboo or latex - with such a variety, it is almost impossible to decide which filler is better. There are two types of natural ones: animal and plant origin. Let's start with the first one.

Feather

The combination of down and feathers is a classic and popular option, despite the relatively high prices of the products. It easily allows air to pass through, regulates heat exchange and does not retain odors, ensuring a comfortable sleep. Experts consider easy restoration of shape to be a separate advantage.

The main problem with traditional products is feathers, which over time break through the surface and are partially destroyed. However, modern production makes it possible to get rid of this drawback due to the multi-layer structure and impregnation of feathers. A more serious drawback is the possibility of allergic reactions. That is why these are clearly not the best fillings for a baby pillow.

Sheep's wool

Sheep wool is not the most popular filling, despite its medicinal properties. It contains animal wax, which has a healing effect when heated during sleep and helps fight problems such as:

back pain, in particular radiculitis;
insomnia due to migraine;
diseases of the respiratory system (bronchi and lungs);
colds.

This material “breathes” and maintains a comfortable body temperature. One of the remarkable properties compared to other materials is increased hygroscopicity. According to test results, it is able to absorb 35% moisture while remaining dry to the touch.

However, this filling is even more allergenic than down. For people with problems in the cervical vertebrae, such models are contraindicated because they do not provide sufficient support. In addition, they require careful care - they need to be dried at least 2 times a year.

Bamboo

The most common plant material is bamboo. It has all the positive properties of its natural counterpart. At the same time, it is hypoallergenic, unlike down and wool, and products made from it are practical and do not require special care.

However, there are several contradictory characteristics here. On the one hand, the pillow is not hygroscopic, but, on the other hand, it dries quickly. It is elastic and can be washed in a machine, however, the product gradually loses strength, but the affordable price pays for all these shortcomings.

Vegetable fillers

Other herbal fillers include:

buckwheat husk
natural latex from Hevea juice

Buckwheat, although it is considered an environmentally friendly material that has a massage effect, not everyone can tolerate its constant rustling during the night. Cotton wool is also a cheap and harmless component, but it becomes unusable very quickly. The best plant material is natural latex, which is made from the juice of the Hevea tree. Bactericidal properties, breathability, porous structure and shape memory - all these characteristics make this filler a customer favorite.

Synthetic fillers: definitely not harmful?

A synthetic composition is considered the best option if a person is prone to allergic reactions. At the same time, modern technologies make it possible to create sleep products based on synthetics, which are safer for health than some natural materials.

Silicone

Silicone is one of the highest quality synthetic materials that almost instantly restores its shape. Silicone in the form of balls lasts the longest because it does not roll off over time. These pillows are always small in size, thereby enhancing their anatomical properties. They do not have a specific smell, so they are suitable for pregnant women even in the very early stages.

Polyester fiber

Despite the positive properties of silicone, the best pillow for pregnant women is still made from polyester fiber. This is a non-woven material treated with silicone. This combination prevents the material from churning. It is also worth noting that it does not absorb odors or moisture due to the fact that the air inside circulates freely. You can also buy this model for a child’s room, since the filler does not cause allergies.

Microfiber

If you are allergic to natural fillers but like the texture of down, consider microfiber. This is another favorite for pregnant women, as products made from it are light, airy and odorless. These models make it comfortable to sleep on your side. They do not collect dust and are easy to clean. The only problem that the buyer may encounter is electrification. You can avoid this by choosing combined options.

Viscoelastic

Viscoelastic is a popular and elastic fiber that allows you to create anatomical pillows with enhanced supporting properties. The model adapts to the shape of your head, but in the morning, while you drink coffee, it will restore its shape. It is pleasant to fall asleep on it at any time of the year due to good heat exchange. Both children and adults will sleep on it with pleasure. There is one important “but”: the product cannot be washed. The price of the material is quite high, but it is worth it.

Microgel

Microgel is another option that will get you noticed if you are looking to buy a good sleeping pillow. It combines the following properties:

"memory" of shape,
moisture resistance,
thermoregulation,
massage texture,
refreshing effect.

It has practically no disadvantages. The only thing is that after purchasing the product it is worth airing it so that the specific smell of production disappears. In addition, it is recommended to use a double pillowcase.

How to choose the best pillow for sleeping?

So which filling makes the pillows the most comfortable? To accurately decide which one is best to buy, consider all the options and check out the products in person. It’s worth finding out in advance what types of products are available so you can roughly understand what’s right for you. A children's pillow is selected based on age, since children's sleep is characterized by mobility. In addition, you should always consider the possibility of allergic reactions. Thus, buy comfortable models just for you, focusing on your body and characteristics.

Bedding is something that none of us can do without. This leisure attribute can vary in price, composition, shape and size. The main requirement is convenience and safety. If you need a pillow, you need to weigh which one to choose and what needs to be taken into account.

What kind of pillows are there in our homes? This accessory today is not only an item for sleeping, but also a decoration item that is widely used in the interior. A light monochromatic sofa will be perfectly complemented by bright pillows with patterns or contrasting colors. Their filler doesn't really matter because we don't spend a lot of time on decorative items. A completely different matter is a sleep accessory.

Our grandmothers knew only two types of pillows: down and feather. Modern manufacturers have made great strides in this matter, and today there are a great variety of fillers for bedding.

There are classic options filled with down and feathers, and there are those that use synthetic fillers that replace feathers and down. There are orthopedic options in which the manufacturer contains buckwheat husk. There are latex products. There are accessories filled with bamboo.

Which pillows are best for sleeping?

A good pillow should ensure sound and healthy sleep - this is its main purpose. Which pillow is better to choose for sleeping?

Each person needs to select this accessory individually, because all people are of different ages, weights, and builds.

The main thing is that the sleeping person is comfortable, the neck does not become stiff during sleep, and the person can get a good night's sleep. One likes flat and firm bedding, the other likes tall and soft. How to choose a sleep accessory taking into account its features?

physical characteristics

Pillows are often a decorative element

The degree of hardness should be taken into account depending on what position you prefer to sleep in:

For those who like to sleep on their stomach, the softest product will suit them;
for those who sleep on their side or have problems with the spine - the stiffer the better;
People who prefer to sleep on their back need to choose an intermediate option.

The shape is not particularly important, unless your doctor has recommended that you sleep strictly on an orthopedic product. In this case, this bedding will have the shape of a roll or a recess in the middle.

The height of these bedding is approximately the same: you can choose a lower or higher one, depending on the width of your shoulder.

The softer your mattress, the higher and firmer your pillow should be. Balance the size of this accessory with the size of your bed, and even room, when deciding which pillow to choose for sleeping. A small product will be appropriate on a small bed, and vice versa.

What to consider when choosing a pillow for sleeping

How to choose a pillow for sleeping? When considering different types of pillows, remember that your sleep attribute should:

it is good to retain the heat given off - this is especially important in winter;
have excellent air circulation so you sweat less;
maintain its shape after washing, otherwise sleeping on it will become uncomfortable;
be hypoallergenic so as not to harm health;
serve for a long time without losing its qualities.

Like a pillow, like a dream.

With the deterioration of the environment, more and more people appear suffering from allergic diseases. Them

What a pillow, what a dream

you definitely need to choose your own bedding without natural filler. Down and feathers, unfortunately, cause an allergic reaction in many people, since dust mites very quickly grow in such filler and irritate the human respiratory tract with their waste products. Any pillow filled with artificial fiber will be hypoallergenic. With this product, your sleep will be healthy and of high quality.

Pillow fillings

What is the best pillow filling? The internal content of the product may vary. Today, accessories are produced filled with very different materials.

Types of pillow fillings

Holofiber. This filler consists of polyester fiber balls. It is absolutely harmless, hygienic, beats perfectly, thanks to its shape, and is washable. Pillows filled with balls resemble down pillows; they are very airy, light, but quite elastic. The fiber is strong and durable.

It is impossible to say unequivocally that the best filling for pillows is a specific material; each of them has its own pros and cons. Which filler is best to purchase this sleep attribute with - you need to decide individually.

Cushion material

Based on the filling material, you can judge how comfortable, hygienic, and durable the pillow will be. You can cover the top of the filler with materials such as: teak, calico, linen. A high-quality and correctly selected material for the cover should be dense, but at the same time breathable.

It is better not to use chintz covers for pillows; this is a fragile material and will not work.

Synthetic materials made from polyester fiber are among the cheapest. This does not mean that these are bad pillows - the price is influenced by the low cost of the filler. Synthetic types of filler

Durable material should be used for pillows

It’s not so common to find accessories where the filler is silk fiber. This product is expensive, but has excellent reviews. Sleeping on such products is a pleasure. They are soft, elastic, hygroscopic, hypoallergenic, breathable, wear-resistant. Machine washable. After drying, such a pillow just needs to be fluffed - and it will take on its original appearance. The service life of such products is up to 15 years.

Silicone The filler is a treated siliconized polyester fiber. These pillows can be classified as orthopedic, as they “know how” to remember the shape of the body. Such products are inexpensive, their service life is short, and after just 2-3 years the silicone will begin to deteriorate. They are chosen for their low cost, elasticity, and hypoallergenicity.

The manufacturer also uses as a filler natural animal fur: sheep, camel, goat. Such pillows are chosen because of their healing properties and high thermal conductivity. So

It is preferable to choose pillows with synthetic filling

Since wool does not hold its shape well and is prone to matting, other fillers are added to such pillows: ecofiber, holofiber. In this case, the product becomes more magnificent and voluminous, more comfortable to wear.

use. This filler is often used for blankets.

Which pillows are the softest?

The softest sleep attributes are products filled with down. Natural down is light and weightless, and you sink into this pillow like into a cloud. The more fluff in a down and feather product, the softer the accessory will be. The natural filler such as silk fiber is also soft. Synthetic fillers are more elastic and therefore less soft. Orthopedic products made of latex and husk should not be soft at all; a rigid product serves better to support the spine.

It is better to buy bedding taking into account the condition of your spine.

Which pillows don't harbor ticks?

Which pillow is better to buy to feel good? Microscopic mites that cause allergies thrive in down and feather bedding. This creature feeds on scales of the human epidermis. In products filled with padding polyester and holofiber, mites will appear, but there will be fewer of them. Such products are cheap, so it is better to change them regularly. But there are also many fillers in which the insect does not live.

These include:

buckwheat husk;
bamboo;
coconut fiber;
silicone;
latex.

How much do pillow fillings cost?

When deciding which pillows are the best, one cannot help but take into account the price of the product. Of course, natural fillings will be expensive: silk, down, wool. The best pillow filling doesn't come cheap.

The price of silk products starts from 4 thousand rubles and reaches 18, depending on the size and manufacturer.

Pillow prices depend on materials and manufacturer

Accessories from Russian manufacturers can be purchased for 3 thousand rubles. But imported brands are many times more expensive. For example, products from Northern Goose (Germany) cost more than 8 thousand, and a bed accessory from Billerbeck (Germany) is on sale for 30 thousand Russian rubles.

Artificial fiber particles are usually added to wool filler. The price of the finished product depends on the percentage of wool. On average, this is 3-4 thousand rubles. You can choose a bedding accessory made of wool, either cheaper or more expensive.

Latex is also quite expensive considering the origin of the material. The price for them starts from 2 thousand rubles, and the upper price level reaches 6.

Products filled with buckwheat husks are produced mainly by Russian companies and cost from 500 rubles.

Synthetic pillows are the cheapest. Products filled with holofiber, ecofiber, padding polyester, and silicone can be purchased starting from 250 rubles.

Pillow life

Choose the right pillow for yourself

When deciding which pillows are best, one cannot help but take into account how long such an accessory will last. The period during which a product can be used directly depends on its filler.

Latex filler has been used for 20 years without losing its properties! It is the longest lasting material used for bedding.
Silk fiber lasts somewhat less (12-15 years).
Products made from down and feathers last a long time, but for hygienic reasons it is recommended to change them every two years so as not to expose yourself to the risk of developing allergies.
About the same number of people use sleep accessories made of silicone, holofiber, padding polyester. Over time, synthetic fiber begins to crumble and lose its properties.
A pillow filled with buckwheat lasts up to 5 years.

To choose the right pillow, approach the issue thoughtfully, then you can get good rest and excellent well-being. A new accessory will last a long time if it has high-quality padding.

Glad to meet you on the blog pages))

I, like most women, really like to buy different products for the home. And this time we will talk about pillows, which have to be updated and purchased quite often.

I will share information about pillows that I have already used and know their advantages and disadvantages well, perhaps this will help you when deciding which pillows are best to buy; I will give reviews of several types in the article.

It is clear that the basis of the pillow is the filler, and it determines how comfortable we will sleep. And for a comfortable sleep, you need to solve the main question: which pillow is better to choose, what material filler meets the requirements of “useful and comfortable”?

I'll start with the most popular pillows of past years, which are gradually being replaced by bedding filled with new materials.

Previously, feather pillows simply had no competitors. Everyone, regardless of income and social status, slept on the same pillows - down and feathers. True, those who lived in the village and had the opportunity to pluck chickens and geese in large quantities could only afford down pillows, without any feathers, however, these could still be bought for a fairly decent amount.

“Testing” down and feather pillows for many years, I studied all their advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages

Natural filler provides a pleasant tactile sensation.

Durable. Previously, it was inherited not only by daughters, but also by granddaughters 😉 With proper care, it will easily last you five, six (ten...)))

Warm, soft and fluffy.

Highly breathable

Flaws

Allergenic. Moreover, the allergen is not the fluff itself, but microscopic mites that love to live in it.

According to the manufacturers, even if you are allergic, among modern down and feather pillows you can find an option for yourself - the pillows are filled with disinfected down, to which is added a cover made of a special fabric through which not only the filler, but also the mites living in it cannot penetrate.

It is almost impossible to wash it yourself, so you need to dry clean it periodically, and you will have to do this quite often (most recommendations boil down to the figure - once every six months). Once upon a time I tried to wash a pen myself, it was, to put it mildly, terrible...))

If you sweat a lot during your sleep, the feather begins to acquire an unpleasant odor.

If you put a low-quality pillowcase on your pillow, you will constantly see downy fluff flying around your apartment, and the prickly tips of feathers will peek through the fabric.

For me personally, it is also a drawback that the pillow is not entirely “anatomical”; if there is a lot of down and feathers in it, it becomes springy and too elastic; if part of the filler is removed, by the morning it “crawls” out from under the head, settling in the corners.

Since for me the shortcomings of these pillows clearly prevail, I would not buy them again, perhaps making an exception only for those that produce their products in accordance with new technologies, with varying degrees of support and filler processing.

Such pillows have only one minus - the price; a high-quality pillow will have a “high-quality” price))

The price of a regular down and feather pillow is about $15.

My subjective assessment: 4/4.

Pillows filled with synthetic feathers

These pillows were purchased to replace down and feather pillows, but of course, mites don’t live in synthetics;)

I have already bought several types of pillows with synthetic fillers, some of them were quite good, but since now I no longer remember what specific filler was used in them, I will write about the one I know well - synthetic down.

Advantages

- Cheap. Therefore, such pillows can be changed frequently.

As I already wrote, there are no harmful microorganisms, hypoallergenic.

Easy to care for, you can wash it yourself at home in a washing machine.

Keep in mind that the temperature when washing synthetic fibers should not be higher than 40 degrees; they are afraid of high temperatures, losing their springiness from it.

Flaws

Synthetics, they are synthetics, well, what they are made from... it’s clear.

Loses its shape quickly. If at first it was a pleasure - soft and at the same time springy, then after a while the “pleasure” turned into many “slides” and “hills”, especially after several washes...

It is not hygroscopic, which, again, is a problem for those who sweat at night.

Conclusion: I won’t buy any more for home, but where such pillows would definitely be good is at the dacha. They are lightweight, washable without problems, dry quickly, and are not absorbed by dampness or odors.

Price: about $4.

My subjective assessment: 4/4.

Another option is bamboo pillows.

Here you need to keep in mind that, unfortunately, there is no 100% bamboo fiber filling in pillows. If you do not mix artificial filler with bamboo, it will not hold its shape.

Most often, bamboo filler is mixed with a highly siliconized fiber called “Swan Down”. But despite this mixture, “conditionally” bamboo pillows turned out to be the best of the ones I tried.

Bamboo pillows: pros and cons

pros

Hypoallergenic.

They have antimicrobial and antibacterial properties.

They allow air to pass through well and absorb moisture.

Can be washed in a washing machine.

They have a long service life.

According to the manufacturer, they contain honey pectin, which has a beneficial effect on the skin.

Minuses

Everything here is bad, or rather, on the contrary, good - bamboo products have no disadvantages, well, practically none) Searching on the Internet for the disadvantages of these pillows did not help, I already wrote about this, by the way, when I talked about it. All I could find of the cons is:

– Pillows should not be used where there is constant high humidity. The high ability of bamboo fiber to absorb moisture in this case becomes a disadvantage.

What was the disadvantage of bamboo pillows for me? Perhaps only their increased elasticity, even despite the fact that over time they wrinkle a little, they still remain quite high. Therefore, if you prefer pillows that you practically “fall into,” then it’s better not to buy bamboo ones.

Bamboo pillow care

They can withstand washing even at a temperature of 60 degrees. It is better to wash in the “delicate wash” mode and with liquid detergent, and you should add it in small quantities, and then rinse well, otherwise the fibers will stick together and clump.

It's a good idea to fluff the pillows periodically to prevent caking.

What else would I like to say: choose a pillow carefully, there are differences between manufacturers and even one company may have different quality pillows in the same line.

I bought bamboo pillows twice, and the first time I bought them I was disappointed, these pillows did not provide the expected comfort. The filler contains bamboo and “swan’s down”, manufactured by Lucy, Russia, Ivanovo.

The filling turned out to be wonderful to the touch - smooth, delicate and soft, made from “swan” after all :) It seemed to me that the manufacturer packed it in the wrong case, too hard, not conveying the delicate properties of the down.

But after some time, seeing pillows in the store that I liked in terms of quality, I was surprised to read on the label that they were also bamboo.

These pillows are produced by the Mona Lisa brand, Russia, Kursk, a very famous brand that produces not only bedding, but also.”

The first days, lying on this pillow, I felt like a princess and a pea, so high and not very comfortable, but in just a few days the pillow “lolled” and began to flawlessly take the desired shape. I've been sleeping on it for quite some time and still love it.

What I didn’t like is that the labels of both pillows do not indicate the percentage composition of bamboo and synthetic filler, it simply says “Filler composition: bamboo fiber, PE.” I had to try to guess the amount of natural material experimentally.

How to determine whether the pillow contains bamboo or whether the pillow is completely filled with “swan’s down.” See how the filler behaves when burning. Bamboo fiber burns completely rather than melting, producing a light gray ash and smelling like burnt paper.

I tested all the pillows in the apartment except the feather one, everything is clear with it - a natural product;)

This is what happened as a result - everyone melted)) (on the left is the “Mona Lisa” pillow filler, in the middle is Lucy, on the right is synthetic fluff).

The synthetic fluff behaved as befits an artificial material - it melted instantly. The photo shows how elastic and lumpy it is.

The filling from the bamboo pillow from the Lucy company, which I bought first, also seemed very synthetic both in the way of charring and in the smell.

You can see how delicate the composition of swan's down is.

The filling was from my favorite pillow and melted somehow differently, and the color was much lighter, and the smell was more natural - it really smelled like burnt paper.

Based on the results of this testing, I again liked the filler in the Mona Lisa pillows the most.

The useful characteristics of a pillow depend on many factors, but the main one is the choice of suitable filler. It is this that determines the degree of rigidity of the product and its orthopedic properties. Manufacturers offer a wide selection of materials. Which one is right for you, and what are the advantages of each?

It is recommended to choose a filler based on personal comfort and health criteria. Some people find it comfortable to sleep on soft pillows, while others prefer hard surfaces. In winter you want to drown in something warm and cozy, in summer you want to feel pleasantly cool. Do not forget about possible allergies to certain materials.

What pillow firmness are you comfortable with?

The first thing you should decide for yourself is how soft your pillow should be. Products with down or holofiber have the lowest possible rigidity, but constantly sleeping on them is not entirely beneficial for the spine. In the morning, the neck muscles may become stiff and a feeling of discomfort may arise.

Orthopedic pillows are an excellent alternative to traditional sleep accessories. They have medium and high rigidity, ensuring the correct position of the neck and head. As a result, you get the opportunity to completely relax, sleep well and get up in the morning refreshed.

What position do you sleep in?

Sleeping position is the main criterion when choosing the height of a sleep accessory. The lowest and softest ones are suitable for those who like to sleep on their stomach. Medium-height products are recommended for those who prefer to spend nights on their backs. If you are a fan of sleeping on your side, choose an accessory that fits your shoulder width. The pillow should provide the spine with the correct horizontal position.

Do you feel hot on your pillow?

Another important criterion is thermoregulation. A regular pillow with down, wool, padding polyester, holofiber or bamboo is soft. Your head literally drowns in it. In winter you can still sleep on such a product, but in summer it gets very hot.

You know the feeling when your neck and head sweat a lot at night. The pillow also becomes damp and warm. It has to be turned over several times a night. As a result, you cannot get a good night's sleep, and the morning begins with a headache and a bad mood.

Gel pillows have a cooling effect. They are recommended for use in summer.

Time spent on pillow care

Like all sleep products, pillows require care. It's not just about washing pillowcases. The filler also needs cleaning.

Synthetic fibers are easy to wash and dry quickly. It takes little time to care for the products.
Natural latex and memory foam require regular wiping with a damp cloth, which takes even less time.
Wool and down require frequent drying. In addition, pillows with these fillings must be knocked out from the dust that accumulates in them to avoid the appearance of dust mites, which cause allergies.

There is no time to spend a lot of time caring for your sleeping accessories - choose products with appropriate fillings.

How long would you like to use the pillow?

An important characteristic of the filler is its service life. How long do you plan to use your pillow? The manufacturer includes instructions with the product indicating the warranty period of use. During this period it will retain its shape, elasticity and other quality characteristics. All that remains is the one that meets your requirements.

Sintepon and holofiber will last about a year. Bamboo - up to 5 years. Silk - up to 10 years. Natural latex - up to 20 years.

Do you have any allergies?

Not all fillers are hypoallergenic. Feather, down, wool, and grass contain dust mites - sources of allergies. If you are prone to illness, it is better to avoid pillows with this composition.

Artificial materials, latex, bamboo usually do not cause discomfort or skin irritation. An exception may be cases of individual intolerance to certain fillers.

Natural fillers of animal origin

Feather)

The traditional filling for pillows is down. As a cheap option, it is replaced with a stylus. The down of waterfowl is used. Elite types of fillers include swan down.

soft,
hygroscopic,
breathable,
easily restores its shape when whipped,
keeps warm,
has a long (up to 7 years) service life.

accumulates dust
promotes the appearance of dust mites,
allergen,
difficult to care for.

Wool

Wool has been used as filling since pre-biblical times. The material has healing properties due to the lanolin it contains. Useful for rheumatism.

elastic,
hygroscopic,
breathable,
easy,
warm,
has a healing effect,
service life is about 5 years.

falls down
residence of dust mites and moths,
strong allergen,
may cause asthma attacks.

Horsehair

A filler that is as long used as wool, but has no medicinal properties.

elastic,
hygroscopic,
breathable,
warm,
service life up to 6 years.

falls down
dust mites live in it,
strong allergen,
not washable.

Silk

The filler is thin silk fibers obtained from silkworm cocoons.

soft,
elastic,
hygroscopic,
breathable,
has thermoregulating properties,
not electrified
hypoallergenic,
has a long (up to 15 years) service life.

high price.

Natural plant fillers

Materials of plant origin have been used for stuffing pillows since ancient times. Previously, they were valued for their low cost. Today, their main advantage is high orthopedic qualities.

Bamboo fiber

A popular pillow filling made from bamboo stems. Modern technologies make it possible to process them into cellulose fiber.

elastic
soft,
breathable,
hypoallergenic,
easy,
keeps warm.

low orthopedic properties,
short (up to three years) service life.

Corn fiber

Eco-friendly material, the quality characteristics of which are similar to bamboo.

soft,
elastic,
breathable,
hygroscopic,
hypoallergenic,
warm.

has low orthopedic properties,
has a short (up to three years) period of use.

Buckwheat husk

It consists of flakes of buckwheat grains processed in a special way. The material is environmentally friendly with a pleasant smell. Used in aromatherapy for insomnia.

has high orthopedic properties,
has a massage effect,
breathable,
hygroscopic,
service life is 5 years.

may cause allergies due to dust mites,
needs frequent vacuuming,
hard (takes some getting used to)
heavy,
rustles slightly.

Latex

The filler is a monolithic piece of natural rubber obtained from the juice of the Brazilian Hevea tree. Produced using two technologies. The resulting material differs in quality characteristics and price.

elastic,
has high orthopedic characteristics,
hypoallergenic,
breathable,
has antibacterial properties,
easy to care for
has a long (up to 20 years) service life.

high price.

Herbs

Pillows with herbs (lavender, thyme, hops) are often used as an aromatherapy remedy. The aroma of this filler has a calming effect and helps improve the quality of sleep.

medicinal properties,
breathability.

accumulates dust
promotes the proliferation of dust mites,
may cause allergies,
rustles,
has a short (about a year) service life.

cotton wool

Inexpensive, fairly dense cotton filling used for decorative sofa pillows.

hypoallergenic,
breathability,
small price.

high density,
heavy weight,
gets lost quickly
requires complex care,
short (3–4 years) service life.

Synthetic fillers

Artificial fillers are not inferior in quality to natural fillers, but have an affordable price.

Polyester

The filler is a light white thin fiber with excellent springing properties.

soft,
easy,
retains heat well,
hypoallergenic,
breathable,
does not absorb odor
does not accumulate static electricity,
easy to care for
inexpensive in price.

does not have orthopedic properties,
has low hygroscopicity,
falls off quickly
has a short (up to three years) service life.

Sintepon

The filler consists of thin air fibers interconnected using high-temperature technology.

easy,
elastic,
soft,
maintains temperature
breathable,
hygroscopic,
hypoallergenic,
easy to care for,
inexpensive.

quickly tracks,
does not retain elasticity,

Gel

One of the newest fillers used as a complement to latex.

has cooling and massage properties,
hypoallergenic,
has orthopedic characteristics,
has a memory effect,
easy to care for

high price,
special elasticity that you need to get used to.

Thinsulate

The filler is better known as artificial swan down. Has characteristics similar to natural material.

easy,
soft,
hypoallergenic,
keeps warm,
breathable,
hygroscopic,

saves static electricity,
In summer it can cause overheating.

Highly elastic polyurethane foam, known as “memorix” or memory foam. Used for orthopedic pillows.

hypoallergenic,
elastic,
has high orthopedic characteristics,
easy to care for
has a long (up to 10 years) service life.

low breathability,
high price.

Learn more about what an orthopedic memory foam pillow is, its advantages and disadvantages

Styrofoam balls

A filler with special properties, due to which it is recommended for use in pillows for pregnant women.

hypoallergenic,
has orthopedic properties,
maintains comfortable temperature conditions,
does not absorb odors.

rustles when used,
can't be washed
has a short (2–3 years) service life.

Silicone

The filler is a hollow fiber twisted into spirals or balls.

easy,
soft,
elastic,
hypoallergenic,
hygroscopic,
keeps warm,
does not absorb odors.

becomes a reservoir of static electricity,
has a short (about two years) service life.

Artificial latex

A filler that has recently become the most popular. It has the properties of a natural analogue, but has an affordable price.

elastic,
hypoallergenic,
breathable,
keeps its shape well,
has a long (up to 7 years) service life.

inferior in duration of use to natural material.

Polyester fiber

This type of filler includes several types of materials with similar characteristics - holofiber, comforter, ecofiber.

soft,
lungs,
breathable,
hygroscopic,
hypoallergenic,
keep warm,
does not retain odors,
inexpensive,
service life is 5 years.

Violation of the rules of use leads to the formation of lumps.

Nuances for choosing the best pillow filling

Which pillow filling can be called the best is difficult to answer. Each person has their own requirements for sleep products. The main thing to pay attention to is quality. Unscrupulous manufacturers often offer low-quality goods at a high price. A trusted manufacturer will guarantee a high-quality pillow that will provide a relaxing, complete rest.

When choosing a pillow based on its filling, it is recommended to familiarize yourself with the characteristics of each material so as not to be disappointed with the purchase. If you wanted to purchase a product of medium hardness, you should not choose latex or buckwheat husk as a filler. If you dream of a soft pillow, Thinsulate will be a real godsend.