What are pillow stuffings? Which pillow is better to choose according to the filler? Sheep and camel wool

Sleep plays an important role in our health, so making it comfortable is the direct responsibility of every person. Comfort depends on numerous factors, these are the location and surface of the bed, the quality of the bed linen, external factors and much more. One of the important factors is the pillow, or rather, its filler.

Read this article:

Types of fillers

Due to the wide range, it is difficult to decide which pillow filler is better and choose the right one, but after considering all the advantages and disadvantages, it is still possible.

Fillers are divided into two main types, it is with natural and synthetic fillers.

Pillows with natural filling

Bird fluff and soft feathers

They are the most common type and have many advantages. Mostly goose down is used because of its softness, warmth and good moisture absorption, as well as its evaporation. No less common in use is duck down. But chicken, although it is used, is rather rare, because it has an increased absorption of moisture, due to which the feather can begin to decompose very quickly.

Advantages:

• The softness of the product.
• Naturalness and ecology.
• Prolonged use of pillows proper care behind them.
• Products well pass air, it is possible to tell, breathe.
• Pillows do not lose their shape and volume, in the event of a slight deformation, with the help of whipping, they can be returned to their previous shape, becoming soft and fluffy again.

As with any product, there are also disadvantages:

• With improper care, the possibility of the appearance of ticks and, as a result, allergies.
• The need for constant care for them, which consists in cleaning feathers and fluff, airing, drying, which is extremely difficult to do at home, so you need to go to dry cleaning.
• They have the property of absorbing odors from the side.
• In the presence of a thin breastplate, the tips of small feathers cause discomfort, due to their tingling of the body.

Sheep or camel hair

Possesses medicinal properties and is used in most cases in the treatment of diseases such as rheumatism or joint pain.

Advantages:

• Has medicinal properties.
• Good thermal insulation.
• The softness of the product.
• Does not absorb third-party odors.

Flaws:

• When rolling the wool into a ball, it is impossible to beat it.
• Short service life.
• The use of this filler is contraindicated for people with allergies.

bamboo filler

It is a thin and elastic thread, the length of which is about 20 cm, resulting from the grinding and processing of bamboo stems. Since bamboo is not attacked by pests during its growth, it does not need chemical treatments, which makes it an environmentally friendly material.

Advantages:

• Environmentally friendly fibre.
• It has antibacterial and antistatic properties.
• The softness of the product.
• Practically does not wrinkle and quickly returns to its original shape.
• It has a good, porous structure, thanks to which moisture is well absorbed and also evaporates easily.
• Ticks do not start in this material.
• You can wash the product in the machine.

Flaws:

• In case of improper care or storage after washing, lumps may appear.

Buckwheat filler

Refers to the type of herbal materials. In the old days, and to this day, pillows are produced, the filler of which is various herbs, lavender, hop cones, mint leaves and, of course, buckwheat, but the most common in our time is pillows with buckwheat husks. Its production is carried out by separating the husk from the grains, with its further processing.

Advantages:

• It has orthopedic properties, performing massage of the joints and the upper part of the spine. Helps to get rid of snoring, allergies.
• This is an environmentally friendly material.
• No lumps are formed.
• This material does not start mites and does not collect dust.
• Takes the shape of the body.
• The ability to adjust the density of the pillow, due to the fact that the husk can be poured through a special hole.
• Good breathability.

Flaws:

• Due to its rigidity, long time adaptation.
• Constant rustling, although for some this drawback is a plus.
• Requires constant care.
• Limited service life, 3 to 5 years.

natural latex

It is made from hevea juice, after which it undergoes a process of vulcanization and foaming. Pillows with such a filler are orthopedic, due to elasticity and the ability to take a certain shape, for proper support of the spine. It is possible to combine latex with down, giving elasticity and softness at the same time.

Advantages:

• Soft and flexible at the same time.
• Easy care, washable.
• Durable.
• Safe, hypoallergenic.

Flaws:

• Long-term adaptation to the shape of the pillow.
• Poor moisture absorption.

Types of synthetic fillers

holofiber

It is an absolutely safe material for filling pillows. It is a polyester thread in the form of small balls or springs.

Advantages:

• lightness and softness of the product.
• Good breathability.
• Does not cause allergic diseases.
• Does not electrify.

Flaws:

• With prolonged use or improper washing technology, the fiber rolls into lumps.

Silicone

This is a material for which synthetic fiber is used, undergoing a siliconization process, it acquires softness and elasticity.

Advantages:

• Does not cause allergies.
• The product is well looked after, it can be washed.
• Affordable cost.

Flaws:

• The duration of operation depends on proper care.

Sintepon

Consists of fibers that do not have a specific structure. It is a common material for filling pillows.

Advantages:

• They have a soft texture.
• Ease.
• Ticks don't start.
• Easy care and washable.

Flaws:

• The main disadvantage is the fragility of the product, shrinking over time, losing its shape and softness.

Comfortel

It has the form of balls made of acrylic fibers. These pillows are very comfortable to use.

Advantages:

• Does not absorb foreign odors.
• Has resistance to external influences.
• The softness and elasticity of the pillow.
• Can be washed.

Summing up, we can say that in order to decide on the choice of filler for a pillow, you need to be based on personal preferences, various features of the body and financial possibilities. Each of the above types has its pros and cons, but the main nuance when choosing a filler is comfort, convenience and safety when using it.

For convenience, all fillers can be divided into several groups.

1. Natural fillers of animal origin
2. Natural herbal fillers
3. Synthetic materials.

With what filler to buy a pillow?

Natural fillers of animal origin

Down, down-feather

This is one of the most famous and popular fillers. Chicken, goose, eider down and/or feathers are used. Natural down and feather pillows are quite expensive, but this further strengthens people's faith in their special properties and exclusivity. However, not everything is so rosy.

Advantages of natural down and feather pillows:

Very pleasant to the touch, soft, "fluffy", it is easy to fall asleep on them.

The texture of the filler is such that air spaces remain between its particles. Thanks to this, the pillow "breathes", it is not hot to sleep on it in summer and not cold in winter.

Disadvantages of natural down and feather pillows:

Over time, the down and feather become denser, “fall off”, the pillow ceases to support the head and neck.

Often such pillows are too soft, the head “sinks” in them, not only the position of the head and neck during sleep is disturbed, but also breathing.

Pillow fillings down and feathers are very strong allergens! It often happens that patients with bronchial asthma have nocturnal attacks of suffocation due to the inhalation of their fragments. People who are allergic to down and feathers have nasal congestion and a runny nose at night that interfere with normal rest.

The material is very hygroscopic. This means that it easily absorbs moisture. When wet, down and feathers begin to emit an unpleasant odor. Considering that a down or feather pillow absorbs up to 100 ml of liquid (sweat, saliva) per night, this is not a very good property. Special measures are required for the care of a down pillow, in particular, it is undesirable to “hide” it for a day under a bedspread, it is better to leave it outside to dry. Probably, it was with the need to dry such pillows daily that the tradition arose of folding pillows over a blanket or placing them on the bed during the day in a “pyramid”.

Before going to bed, a pillow that has already served for some time must be “cooked”: beat, shake, so that the filler is more evenly distributed, and the product itself becomes softer and fluffier. Of course, this is not a problem - take a couple of minutes to shake the pillow. But if you could do without it (and you really can with other fillers), it would be more convenient.

Pillows that have been in use for several months begin to lose their "stuffing". It is unpleasant when a feather pricks your face at night, or when you clean the room because of the fluff on the carpet, it seems that you are on a bird farm, and not in your own bedroom.

The biggest drawback of the filler for down-feather pillows is that over time, microscopic mites and mold fungi settle and develop in it. Actually, microfauna colonization occurs in any filler, whether organic or synthetic. However, on animal substrates such as down and feathers, this happens especially quickly and intensely. Down pillows require special care and need to be cleaned fairly frequently.

According to their properties, according to the comfort of rest, pillows made of natural fluff are very good. However, if you want to buy the cheapest version of the product and do not plan to take care of it, down and feather pillow filling is not your option.

Tips for handling a down or feather pillow:

Buy the highest quality pillows with all the necessary hygiene certificates. Cheap low-quality down-feather filler is poorly cleaned, in the pillows stuffed with it, you can “meet” not only down and feather directly, but also components of sweat and sebum of chickens, particles of their skin and even pieces of meat on the tips of feathers! Accordingly, such a pillow is very allergenic and will soon become a “biological weapon”, as mites and mold will quickly develop in it. Make sure the pen has been specially steam cleaned and treated with antiseptics. Then you can buy this pillow.

Wash your pillow every 4-6 months. When buying, specify exactly how this can be done so as not to spoil the product. If you are not sure that you can cope with the task yourself, use the services of special firms.

After 3 years, the down pillow, like all others, must be replaced with a new one.

Wool

Wool-filled pillows are less popular, but still used. As a rule, sheep and camel wool is used.

Advantages of wool pillows

Individual hairs of wool are quite soft, but when they are in the composition of the finished pillow material, the filler becomes very elastic, springy.

Like down, wool retains heat well. This property, along with elasticity, makes the pillow pleasant to handle.

As for sheep's wool, it is endowed with special healing properties. There is a popular opinion among the inhabitants that sleeping on a sheep's pillow helps with joint diseases and other diseases. In fact, this is not true. However, people believe in this... And for the placebo effect, we still put a small “plus” on the wool filler :)...

Disadvantages of wool pillows

Wool is believed to have water-repellent and antibacterial properties. This is both true and false. The fact is that the listed properties of wool work only as long as the animal “wears” this wool. They are due to the presence on the surface of the hairs of sebum and sweat components containing various "protective" substances. The animal really needs this and, but the person who sleeps on a woolen pillow does not. If organic matter is “packed” in a pillow along with wool, it even harms: it gets wet easily and quickly, and numerous types of mites and mold willingly develop and flourish in it. Woolen pillow becomes hazardous to health.

Wool quickly falls off, and the pillow becomes completely unusable.

Thus, in general, the already indicated requirements should be presented to woolen pillows and their owners: high quality and a high degree of wool cleaning, decent care for the pillow and its timely replacement.

Silk

Silk are not only pillowcases for pillows, but also a filler. Twisted silkworm cocoons are very soft and elastic, this material is durable and pleasant to use, withstands many washings without compromising its properties. Therefore, natural silk pillows are very good.

Unfortunately, there are also some disadvantages:

This filler, like the above, is not immune from the "attack" of unwanted microorganisms.

Pillows made of natural silk have a high price.

Natural herbal fillers

Buckwheat husk

So called "skins" from buckwheat seeds. It is quite pleasant to hold a pillow with such a filler in your hands: it makes a slight rustling, pleasant to the ear, the fingertips are massaged with solid particles of the husk. It's inexpensive, which is another plus. Everyone praises buckwheat husk pillows - their benefits are praised everywhere.

But there are also disadvantages:

When you roll over in your sleep, you will hear the same rustling directly under your ear, and for obvious reasons, it will seem much louder. If you are a light sleeper, this pillow is definitely not for you. “You just have to get used to it,” say supporters of the use of husks. And why get used to it if you can choose a much more convenient and completely silent filler?

Buckwheat pillow is hard. If you like that, fine. But if you, like most people, prefer to put something softer under your head, it is better to refuse buckwheat husks. Do you want to understand how comfortable it is to sleep on it? Imagine that you are resting, lying on a loose bag of cereal.

Lovers of "natural" claim that such pillows have natural orthopedic properties. This is a malicious deception. Orthopedic is when parts of the body are supported in a physiological, comfortable position. This is not discussed here.

The husk has a very noticeable smell of buckwheat. He is not pleasant to everyone.

If you are not sleeping on your back and your face is in contact with the pillow while sleeping, keep in mind: the husk will prick a little through the pillowcase. In the most benevolent interpretation, this can be called micromassage, but it still interferes with sleep.

Like other natural materials, this one will quickly be attacked by mites and mold. The benefits of a pillow made of buckwheat husks will come to naught. And since such products cannot be washed, you will be doomed until the end of the pillow’s service life to be subjected to night attacks of harmful microorganisms and their metabolic products.

Bamboo

Memories of bamboo stalks somehow do not create a feeling of softness and comfort in the soul. However, bamboo pillows are not made from dense stems, but from young shoots, which are processed in a special way, defibrated to obtain thin elastic threads. Bamboo filler is quite inexpensive, soft, and acceptable to handle. Now such pillows confidently fill the domestic market, we can say that at the moment this innovative bedding is quickly becoming a people's favorite.

Comfortable, good material. However, in general, it is overestimated, the cons of bamboo pillows also exist.

It is believed that the high ability to absorb and retain moisture is the advantage of bamboo. Yes, this makes the use of the product comfortable, as the head on the bamboo pillow does not sweat. However, the fact that the material attracts water is also good for the repeatedly mentioned mites and mold. After a few months, they thoroughly populate even the most beautiful bamboo pillow - the minus is obvious.

Bamboo fibers are believed to have antibacterial properties. They are. However, these properties act only in the body of a living plant and protect it; it is such a natural weapon against phytopathogens. When cut, dried and turned into fiber, bamboo becomes just as attractive a habitat for microbes as other organic fillers.

Over time, pillows with bamboo “sit down” and compact.

cotton wool

Let's say right away that if you need a good pillow, cotton wool is not the best choice. As you know, it is a cotton fiber. It would seem that a wonderful material is natural, hypoallergenic ... Unfortunately, such products are compressed very quickly, inside the pillow the cotton wool gets into hard lumps, and if you wash such a pillow at least once in a typewriter, you can safely throw it in the trash. If it is not washed and cleaned, then harmful microscopic organisms quickly begin to develop in the cozy weaves of its threads. Wadded pillows are very cheap, but they are definitely the poorest quality.

Yes, everything has flaws ... So with what filler should I buy a pillow?

Synthetic materials

There is a persistent association in the mass human consciousness: synthetics = harm. However, as shown above when describing natural materials, none of them are ideal for making pillows! If you choose high-quality down, bamboo or other pillows, take good care of them and change them in time, they can be just great. But we can say for sure that synthetic materials are not inferior to natural ones at all, and in some ways they even surpass them.

For example, they:

1. Easy care
2. Hypoallergenic
3. Some of them have orthopedic properties
4. In synthetic fillers, the development of harmful organisms does not occur as quickly as in natural ones.

However, again, these advantages are characteristic just for quality materials. If the pillow is made by a little-known manufacturer or its origin is generally in doubt, it is better not to buy this one. Bad, low-quality synthetic materials can even be toxic! So, as they say, look at the label.

We list the main synthetic materials that are popular in the production of home textiles. We hope this will help you understand what kind of filler to buy a pillow with.

Polyester

White very thin fibers. The material is soft, good keeps warm, does not absorb odors, is hypoallergenic very light and washable. Accordingly, a polyester pillow has the same properties. Another plus is that polyester fibers have a “natural” ability not to accumulate electrostatic electricity. And this means that such material will not attract dust. And, of course, you need to remember the price: A polyester pillow costs an order of magnitude less than pillows made from natural materials..

The disadvantages of polyester pillows are that over time, the threads of the material may begin to peek out from the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe seams on the pillow. In addition, they have "problems" with heat dissipation, in summer it gets hot on these pillows, and the material does not absorb water very well, so the cover gets wet and remains damp, which makes it uncomfortable to sleep. Finally, some time after the start of use the pillow becomes flatter and less elastic.

holofiber

Holofiber pillow filler is polyester twisted into balls and treated with silicone. In this form, the material has greater elasticity and less caking over time. The pillow can be periodically "shaken", and it will return its properties. Such products “sit down” more slowly than polyester ones. Other advantages and disadvantages are the same as for polyester. Now holofiber pillow filler is very popular.

Sintepon

An option for those to whom even an inexpensive holofiber seems expensive. The padding polyester for pillows is a very light and airy material made of thin threads. The hairs are glued together, as a rule, they are glued together by heating the material. Advantages - elasticity, softness, uniformity.

The disadvantages are: absorbing the sweat of the sleeper, the material "sags". That is why old padding pillows are so easy to distinguish from new ones: they form a “pit” in the center, in the place where a person’s head is during sleep. Washing is not an option, it also greatly contributes to the flattening and compaction of the padding polyester for pillows, making the thing short-lived.

Be careful - sintepon pillows are sometimes of poor quality! Dishonest manufacturers can use synthetic winterizer, "glued" with the help of adhesive mixtures, not temperature. Such a "technical" option is used for the manufacture of furniture, but it is in no way suitable for sewing pillows.

There are a number of other materials (mainly synthetic) that are used in the manufacture of so-called orthopedic pillows. The description of their properties is worthy of more than a couple of words, so read about them in.

Pillow additives. Herb pillows

Now among manufacturers it has become very fashionable to make pillows with certain additives. They are positioned as especially useful and health. Very often they are talked about as contributing to a better rest, fighting insomnia, strengthening the immune system, relieving stress, and so on.

These additives, as a rule, are presented in the form of dried herbs or extracts for impregnation of the filler. Of course, such pillows are much more expensive than analogues without additives. Let's figure out how expedient it is to pay extra 500-1000 rubles for a bunch of grass or a drop of some extract as part of a pillow.

Is it possible to say that sleeping on an "improved" pillow is better than on a "regular" one? In truth, herbs and essential oils- not so good sleeping pills. Yes, the pleasant smell emanating from such a pillow with herbs can set you up to calm and relax. However, you might as well put some lavender oil on your own pillow and get the same effect.

Do herbal pillows have any healing properties? The presence of healing properties in such pillows is an exaggeration. For example, manufacturers say that pillows with the addition of dried kelp improve immunity, as a person inhales the volatile beneficial substances emitted by this very kelp at night. In fact, the sleeping person only smells, which, of course, is pleasant, but does not bring any benefit, because a person does not eat this seaweed ... In the same way, a pillow with aloe vera extract, contrary to promises, does not preserve beauty and does not slow down aging - after all a person does not make himself a mask of aloe, but just lies, not in contact with the impregnation and only feeling its aroma.

Therefore, statements about the benefits of herbal pillows, although I would like to call them something softer, are rather absurd. They are tantamount to saying that if you smell an apple, you can enrich your body with iron, or that for successful learning you need to put a textbook under your pillow.

In general, there are no special advantages for herbal pillows. If you like such products, there are no barriers to using them. However, it is better to just buy a high-quality orthopedic pillow and, if you wish, “improve” it yourself. Some of them provide for such an opportunity, for example, on the covers of a number of models there is a special pocket for herbs.

So, we hope you have decided with which filler to buy a pillow. Do not forget: not only individual comfort and personal preferences are important, but also the quality of the material from which your pillow is made.

Good luck with your search and good night on your perfect pillow!

There was a time when every home had feather or down pillows. Today they have not lost their popularity, but they have many competitors. All fillers have their advantages, not without their drawbacks. You can compare some materials and find out which one is better according to the listed characteristics.

Conventionally, all fillers can be divided into two large groups: artificial and natural. Each of them has its own advantages and disadvantages.

natural fillings for sleeping pillows

Feather

Often the properties of a pillow depend on the ratio of down and feather in its filling. The filler can consist of fluff from 2% to 90%. The rest is pen. The more fluff, the softer and lighter, but the pillow will also be more expensive. Our grandmothers washed these sleep attributes at home.

Down and feathers of waterfowl (geese, ducks) have excellent qualities. Products with them are light, voluminous.

Feather padding is very poorly breathable. In a dream, a person sweats, and all the moisture accumulates in the pillow. After a few years, it becomes very heavy, turning into a breeding ground for dust mites. And their excrement causes allergic reactions. It is impossible to get rid of ticks at home. Pillows must be cleaned 1-2 times a year (it is better to take them to a dry cleaner), in hot summers it is good to dry them in the sun.

The fluff and feathers of chicken absorb sweat strongly, but do not dry. Over time, they become heavy and can smell unpleasant. They only show dry cleaning. You can use the services of Pillow Cleaning salons, but only those where disinfection takes place not with hot steam, but with UV rays.

The video talks about down pillows:

Pros and cons of silk

The fiber that the silkworm produces. The pillow is soft and breathable.

Flaws:

• silk can sometimes cause allergies;
• dry cleaning;
• is quite expensive.

Buckwheat husk

She is credited with a calming and therapeutic effect due to the mild acupressure heads. Repeats and holds the shape of the head. One of the advantages is the relatively low cost.

Ticks do not start in buckwheat, the husk allows air to pass through, and it can serve for several years.

These pillows are made for different purposes:

• for sleep;
• for meditation (they are in the shape of a crescent, it is convenient to sit on them to meditate);
• seat cushions made of buckwheat husks are used for prolonged sitting (at a desk, driving a car, etc.). Read about orthopedic seat cushions.

Minus pillows for sleeping with such a filler:

• may seem tough to many;
• rustling at the slightest movement at night can interfere with those who are light sleepers;
• adaptation is required (you need to get used to sleeping on it);
• fragility. On average, it lasts three years, and then the husk turns into dust.

Many healers claim that buckwheat husk activates energy channels, stabilizes the work of all systems of the human body.

Natural wool (sheep or camel)

The pillows are warm, soft and light. Wool is breathable, it is credited with healing properties. In addition to the pillow, you can also purchase.

Pillows with this filler are used with therapeutic purpose and for the prevention of pain in the joints and muscles.

1. Sometimes it can cause allergies.
2. Falls off quickly.
3. Do not machine wash, dry clean.

On sale there are pillows with combined materials: wool and synthetics.

bamboo fiber

Becomes more and more popular due to its qualities. :

• environmentally friendly natural material;
• absorbs and passes moisture, i.e. optimal level of humidity during sleep is ensured;
• it passes air well, since the fiber structure is hollow;
• repeats the shape of the head (anatomical effect);
• not electrified;
• good thermoregulation;
• easy care, machine washable.

Cons: high price. A good addition to bamboo pillows will be bamboo blankets that are made in Ivanovo, reviews about which you will find.

Bamboo has antibacterial and anti-allergic properties, they allow allergy sufferers to use pillows with such filler.

There is a big risk of buying a fake! To successfully choose a pillow with bamboo filling, you need to carefully read the label on the product and the label on the package. Pay attention to what percentage of bamboo viscose is in the composition of the filler. To appreciate all the advantages of the fiber, it must be at least 60% in the composition!

It happens that bamboo fiber is located in a quilted layer. The fabric of the cover must be natural th.

Artificial stuffings

Sintepon

The material is hypoallergenic, mites do not start in it, but it does not pass air well, the head can sweat on it.

Disadvantages: very elastic, does not support the shape of the head well. A cheap synthetic winterizer will fail over time. The sintepon pillow for sleeping is not very comfortable. But as a filler for, a synthetic winterizer is perfect, besides, it is inexpensive.

Silicone

Hypoallergenic, soft material that is breathable. Easy to care for.

You need to choose a silicone filler according to your preferences (hard or rigid depends on the density of the material). soft pillow, high or low).

swansdown

Artificial substitute for natural. (The swan is a heat-loving bird and has little fluff). The pillow with it is soft, wear-resistant. The occurrence of allergies is excluded, since mites and mold will not start. A big plus is the affordable price.

• inferior to other synthetic fillers in orthopedic properties;
• does not absorb moisture well, so the material is not suitable for people with excessive sweating;
• electrified.

Hollow fiber HollowFiber (holofiber)

It has become the feedstock for derivative materials similar to each other, varieties: comforter, sintepukh, elboll, fillfiber and holofil. Pillows with synthetic fillings are light in weight, and they can also be washed and squeezed out in a machine, while the antibacterial effect of the fibers is not lost.

Comfort polyester

This is a polyester fiber that has undergone heat treatment. Additionally, it undergoes antibacterial treatment and is coated with silicone. In appearance, these are small balls with a diameter of half a centimeter.

This filler is also used for children's pillows. It does not live dust mites, fungi that cause allergies. The material holds its shape well, does not stray, retains heat well, allows air to pass through, and is not saturated with odors.

Memory foam hypoallergenic

Hypoallergenic, breathable. It is very comfortable to sleep on it. Disadvantages: it cannot be washed, if moisture gets on the foam, it turns into stone, loses its shape and becomes unusable.

It has orthopedic effect.

Latex

Ticks do not start in it. Long service life.

The material is hypoallergenic, has an orthopedic effect.

Carefully read the composition of the filler! Natural latex is expensive. To reduce the cost of products, manufacturers add synthetic latex or latex chips to the composition.

Special pillows for pregnant women

Special pillows for pregnant women can be of different shapes, most often their filler is synthetic material, in order to avoid allergies in pregnant women. For the same reason, it is better to choose a pillow for babies from polyurethane, latex or comfort. If you still decide to buy a product with a natural filler for your baby, then it is better to buy products made from sheep or camel wool. It passes air well and the head will not sweat.

A special comfort pillow for pregnant women can have different shapes.

How to choose the right features

When choosing a pillow, they adhere to certain requirements for it in terms of rigidity or softness, in height. But what your dream will be like also depends on its filler. So, if you are expecting a baby, then for sure, you are wondering. The best filler must meet all relevant requirements.

Traditional feather pets are losing their popularity due to difficult care. Synthetic pillows are much easier to care for and attract.

Supporters of "naturalness" should pay attention to bamboo products. If we compare them, for example, with swan down, then in many respects the materials are similar: hypoallergenic and antibacterial, durable and easy to care for. But swan down has worse thermoregulation and orthopedic properties, it is electrified, which means it quickly gets dirty. But swan down pillows are more affordable. The disadvantage of bamboo fiber pillows is their high price and a high probability of buying a fake.

This article will focus on pillows - one of the main bedding, along with a mattress and a blanket, which serve as a support for a person's head and neck during the night's rest.

General criteria for choosing the right pillow

In addition to decorative aesthetics, the pillow should faithfully serve a person, providing the correct physiological posture in a horizontal position. A good product simultaneously supports the head with the neck and spine.

What happens if you sleep without a pillow? cervical will not relax, as a result of which it will begin to bend over time, delivering a lot of trouble and pathological symptoms to a person.

How to know if a pillow is right for you? Try to analyze your daily sleep. In the morning, your neck hurts and your shoulders stiffen, and at night you keep wanting to put your palm or hand under your head? Most likely, the product is too low.

The formation of muscle tension after a night's rest indicates too high and therefore uncomfortable support for the head.

General requirements for a high-quality and useful product that will improve, not worsen sleep:

• Preservation of the shape of products for a long period of time;
• Lack of odor absorption;
• Normal microcirculation of air masses, moisture, heat;
• Hypoallergenic;
• Strength, practicality, durability.

• Product shape;
• The material of its filler;
• pillow height;
• Product rigidity.

Each of the criteria is extremely important and together affects the overall quality of sleep.

Additional criteria for choosing a pillow its cost, external coating (presence of a good cover), as well as other parameters important for the pillow and the person using it, can be considered.

Pillow size, shape and firmness

The "three pillars" of evaluating a modern pillow are its dimensions, rigidity and shape. It is on them that the quality of the product as a whole depends, as well as its functionality when used during sleep.

Height

The height of modern products ranges from 5-16 centimeters, while the parameter is considered for straightened products.

The vast majority of users are suitable options for 9-15 centimeters, but if you sleep uncomfortable, then you should independently assess the needs - the height of the pillow should be approximately equal to the width of the shoulder.

Dimensions

Modern products have standardized dimensions, under which pillowcases are simply selected.

Children's option- dimensions are 50 by 50 centimeters, while the optimal parameters for adults are 50 by 70 and 70 by 70 centimeters.

Rigidity

The right pillow for sleeping, according to this criterion, first of all depends on your favorite and most frequently used posture during the night's rest. Man sleeping on his side, a hard pillow with a reliable dense support for the head and neck is optimal.

This article is often read:

Forms

Classic products of the above group have a rectangular or square simple form. It is recommended to use them only in the absence of health problems.

If a person has diseases of the musculoskeletal system, any damage to the spine and other pathologies of this spectrum, it is better to use orthopedic pillows with special recesses for the head, channels for the neck or products in the form of rollers.

Specialists there is no consensus on the advisability of using orthopedic pillows for healthy people - large-scale studies do not give a clear picture or a clear relationship between the quality of sleep and the structural features of such structures.

Some professionals argue that such a pillow is only suitable for a short rest or reading in a horizontal position of the body, since the rigid structure, hard side and other special characteristics of the product can cause pain and problems with the spine in the medium term.

At the same time, conservative medicine insists on the daily use of such pillows and the absence of harm to a healthy person.

The truth, apparently, lies in the middle and depends not only on the shape of the pillow, but also on the quality of workmanship, filler and other parameters that together determine the basic consumer properties of the product.

Tailoring features

Another factor that is rarely paid attention to when purchasing a pillow is the features of its tailoring.

Be sure to check the strength and quality of the seams, the density of the outer fabric, as well as the detailing of the tailoring, such as the size of the holes from the needles - some should be small in order to provide protection against the passage of the filler outside the product.

Which pillow filler is better to choose

The most important parameter of a pillow is its filler. General hygiene and the quality of a night's rest directly depend on the content of the stuffing of the product.
All modern pillows according to this criterion are divided into 2 large subgroups - these are synthetic and natural materials. Which option to choose which pillow is best for sleep and daytime rest? consider all possible fillers presented in stores.

Down and feather

Classic natural materials of animal origin that have been constantly used in the production of pillows for many hundreds of years. The cost of such products depends on percentage filler and stuffing density - the more it is and the better the fluff, the more expensive the product.

To the obvious pluses of feather pillows usually include good air exchange, excellent thermoregulation, softness of products, as well as its hygroscopicity with microcirculation of moisture in the process of absorption and evaporation.

Potential cons- difficult care, high price, short service life, as well as high allergic hazard due to the frequent settlement of dust mites and other microorganisms in the product.

Sheep and camel wool

These two types of filling were used even earlier than their goose and duck counterparts in the form of down and feathers. The first was actively used by the inhabitants of the mountainous regions of the planet, and the second dominated in the eastern countries.

Benefits of camel wool pillows: They also breathe well, are hygroscopic, have high level thermal conductivity, however, they are very difficult to maintain - they cannot be washed, and chemical treatment remains the only way to clean them.

Minuses: Also, the filler made of camel and sheep wool is haunted by the age-old problem of materials of animal origin - a high allergic hazard for the user;

Horsehair

A special type of filler is horse hair, a by-product of horse breeding. Horsehair pillows are cheaper than down and wool, while perfectly absorbing and removing moisture, and also perfectly keep their shape, while having good indicators of microcirculation of air masses. In addition, products made from this filler are easy to maintain and operate.

The disadvantages include low thermal conductivity, strong pillow stiffness, as well as its increased allergenicity.

Silk

Silk is a special type of filler of natural origin, which is extracted from silkworm cocoons. Unlike other natural animal-based analogues, it is hypoallergenic, ticks and other pathogenic microorganisms do not start in the structure of the material.

Also, products on silk filler are elastic, do not wrinkle, serve for a very long time, have good thermal conductivity, hygroscopicity.

Of the minuses can be noted the presence of a static effect when used, as well as the very high cost of such a pillow.

Vegetable fillers

This broad group of materials includes buckwheat husks, rice shells, herbs, hop cones, etc. Very cheap to manufacture, such pillows have excellent air circulation activity, are elastic, hypoallergenic, have a mild aromatherapy effect on the human body, quickly and easily take the shape of the neck and head.

Explicit cons- problems with care, short service life (wear in 1-2 years), high rigidity of the structure, as well as the presence of extraneous rustling sounds during regular operation.

Bamboo

Bamboo fiber, regardless of its chemical or mechanical origin, has a number of useful properties, making this herbal natural filler one of the the best options choice for a quality pillow.

To the advantages of products on its basis include environmental friendliness, hypoallergenicity, the possibility of simple and comfortable washing, excellent indicators of hygroscopicity and air exchange, comfort regardless of the season, and relatively low cost.

Of the minuses- too active absorption of moisture, short terms of operation, as well as some rigidity.

And you can read more about choosing a pillow filled with bamboo fiber in a separate one.

Latex

The filler is made from natural foamed rubber. It is very springy, has good orthopedic properties, does not cause allergies, quickly restores its shape after application, is easy to wash, and can last up to 20 years in one product. Their only downside– high cost in comparison with the nearest analogues;

Sintepon

One of the cheapest synthetic pillow fillers. It does not absorb odors, is quite practical during operation, does not cause allergic reactions, there are no mites and other microorganisms in the structure of the material.

Of the minuses, it is worth noting the short service life and quick deterioration of the filler due to its internal rolling, poor thermal conductivity (the pillow can be hot).

Comfortel

A more expensive analogue of a synthetic winterizer, which is a small polyester balls made of synthetic fiber with additional thermal and antibacterial treatment. Their outer structure is covered with a thin silicone layer to ensure elasticity.

Benefits of comfort pillows- hypoallergenic, good heat capacity, shape retention during operation, excellent breathability.

Of the minuses, it is worth noting zero hygroscopicity- the product is not suitable for people with excessive sweating, it is also inconvenient to use it in the summer.

holofiber

Premium version of synthetic filler. It has good indicators of thermal conductivity, orthopedics. The filler does not cause allergic and toxic reactions, is easily washed even in a machine, does not absorb odors, provides a high level of air exchange and microcirculation. Minuses- high rigidity, poor absorption and release of moisture.

Silicone

One of the most famous synthetic materials is often used as a filler for modern pillows. It has very good elastic properties, provides a stable orthopedic effect, and is easy to wash. In addition, silicone perfectly passes air, does not cause allergies. Of the minuses, poor hygroscopicity can be noted.(does not evaporate moisture), as well as a strong static effect.

It is not possible to say unequivocally which filler for pillows is better, because. Each option has its own scope and has both advantages and disadvantages.

Which pillowcase to choose and does it matter?

Many people, when purchasing a quality pillow, forget about choosing a good pillowcase for this sleeping accessory. The pillowcase as a product acts as an additional protection of the selected pillow from sweat, dirt and dust, in addition, it provides additional air exchange and microcirculation of moisture.

How to choose a good product? Purchase products from the highest quality material, preferably with an antibacterial coating - we are talking about natural matter, with a small addition of synthetic fibers.

Pay attention to cut and seams- the latter should be perfect, even, without burrs and threads sticking out to the sides, as small and dense as possible. In addition, select the product exactly according to the size of the pillow, otherwise it will not be very comfortable to sleep.

Final pillow selection before purchase

You have carefully weighed the pros and cons, studied the available assortment in the store, took into account all the above recommendations and are almost ready to make the right purchase. We'll give you some more general advice by choosing a really good pillow for a comfortable sleep, which will provide the most comfortable and safe rest, and also last a long time:

• Choose according to the season. In the summer, it is better not to purchase pillows made of materials that have low thermal conductivity - they quickly accumulate heat, but do not release it adequately, as a result, a person will experience discomfort;
• Do not get carried away with orthopedic constructions. Orthopedic pillows are not a panacea for all ills, but a necessity in case of problems with the spinal column. For some categories of users who do not have health problems, in the medium term, such products can cause a number of pathologies;
• Price is not important. There is no direct relationship between the quality and functionality of the pillow, as well as its cost - each product is unique in its own way and designed for specific purposes. Comprehensively evaluate the proposed options, choosing the best for you personally.

Good luck and good sleep to you!

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

Swan down filling for pillow

Artificial swan down

At present, unusually warm and light pillows with swan's down do not contain natural material at all. All of them are made of artificial fluff, which surpasses the natural analogue in its characteristics. By structure, these are twisted spirals and polyester fiber-balls, which are treated with silicone.

Advantages of artificial swan filler

Among the advantages of artificial swan down are:

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

Cons of artificial swan filler

The disadvantages of artificial swan down include:

1. poor hygroscopicity. The filler does not absorb moisture, so the use of such a pillow will be extremely inconvenient for people with excessive sweating;
2. electrification. All synthetic materials have this unpleasant property.

Care and cost of artificial swan down pillow

The swan down pillow can be washed on a delicate cycle in an automatic machine at a water temperature not exceeding 30 degrees. The use of abrasive products is prohibited. In addition, the product must not 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, natural swan down has more disadvantages than advantages. Its service life is much shorter, it is prone to the fact that mites quickly start up in it, which cause skin diseases.

It is difficult to care for a pillow with natural filler. There is a high probability that after washing the fluff will turn into lumps. Moreover, taking into account the tendency modern man allergies, a swan down pillow can be a real health hazard.

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 live bird. Perhaps some 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 the traditional option. At the same time, feathers of geese, swans and turkeys are mainly used for its manufacture. Due to the peculiarities of the material (feathers do not fit tightly to each other), the effect of air space inside is created, which gives the product good thermal insulation properties.

Advantages of a feather pillow

Feather as a filler gives the pillow the following qualities:

1. lightness and elasticity;
2. long service life (from 10 to 20 years);
3. hypoallergenicity due to special processing of the pen;
4. environmental friendliness;
5. hygroscopicity;
6. comfort in use.

All of these advantages apply to the "new generation" pillows, because they are not possessed by products inherited from our grandmothers and great-grandmothers.

Cons of feather pillows

The disadvantages of feather filler include only the impossibility of self-cleaning. You will have to carry the pillow to a special place where it will be processed and restored. You may only be required to dry it periodically 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 handed over for cleaning.

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

The minimum cost of a feather pillow is about 500 rubles. However, high-quality safe filler is still in those options that are more expensive - up to 3000 rubles.

Cotton filler for pillow

Cotton-filled pillows are always in high demand, because this is one of the most suitable materials for bedding.

Advantages of cotton filler

The benefits of cotton pillows include:

1. environmental friendliness;
2. natural composition;
3. hygroscopicity;
4. good thermoregulation;
5. hypoallergenicity.

Disadvantages of cotton filler

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

Care and cost of cotton-filled pillows

Cotton pillows are well washed at a temperature of 40 degrees in the machine. Dry them in a horizontal position.

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

Holofiber filler for pillow

Hollofiber 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 a pillow

The pillow from the popular holofiber has many advantages:

The only drawback of the pillow may be its rigidity, which for some people is a virtue.

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 in the redistribution of 600 rubles (pillow sizes 50 * 50 and others).

holofiber

Bamboo pillow filling

Bamboo natural filler is obtained as a result of chemical processing of split fibers from young bamboo shoots. At the same time, do not be afraid of the impact 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 filler

Bamboo pillow has a number of positive qualities:

1. elasticity;
2. hygroscopicity;
3. breathability;
4. durability and strength;
5. ease of care;
6. hypoallergenicity;
7. bactericidal properties. Ticks will never start in it due to the special properties of the fiber.

Disadvantages of bamboo pillow

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

Care and cost of pillows with bamboo filler

The pillow can be put in the washing machine and select the delicate mode. After that, it is dried with good air circulation.

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

Ball filler for pillow

Ball filler for pillows intended for sleeping will not be used. It is used for the manufacture of products called "anti-stress pillow", soft frameless furniture, pillows for feeding, for pregnant women and toys. Expanded polystyrene granules are 98% air enclosed in the thinnest shell.

Advantages of ball filler

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

Such pillow toys for children remarkably develop fine motor skills, and for pregnant women, the possibility of remembering the shape is important - the “memory effect”.

Lack of ball filler

The only drawback of the ball filler may be a slight rustling, which is well audible if you lie on the pillow and turn around. In addition, there is a small risk that the pillow will tear and the balls will be scattered on the floor. However, the probability is very small.

Care and cost of a pillow with a ball filler

Products with expanded polystyrene are washed in an automatic machine on a delicate mode with a small amount of powder without wringing. Dry with good air circulation.

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

Silk filler for pillow

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

Advantages of silk pillows

Features of the origin of raw materials for silk filler pillows, endow them with a number of positive properties:

The only disadvantage that may prevent the purchase of a product with silk filling may be its high cost.

Care and cost of pillows with silk filler

The pillow with silk can be washed in the 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 size 50 * 50) and can reach 5,000 rubles or more.

Buckwheat filler for pillow

Buckwheat husk pillows have become popular in Japan. Based on research, it was revealed that this is a therapeutic filler, because it is able to have a beneficial effect on the human body. First of all, it concerns the issue of spinal health. In addition, its use reduces the severity of headaches and muscle pain.

Advantages of buckwheat pillows

Natural buckwheat filler for pillows has the following properties:

1. massage effect;
2. aromatherapeutic effect;
3. hygroscopicity;
4. hypoallergenicity;
5. antibacterial properties.

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

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

Disadvantages of a buckwheat pillow

Among the disadvantages of buckwheat pillows are:

1. rigidity;
2. heaviness;
3. short service life - 2 years;
4. rapid loss of shape;
5. characteristic rustle.

Care and cost of a pillow filled with buckwheat

Buckwheat sleep pillows cannot be washed, only vacuumed and dried in the sun.

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

buckwheat husk

Silicone filler for pillow

Silicone filler is designed for allergy sufferers, because it is an absolutely non-allergenic material. It is created by processing polyester. The special softness and splendor of such products attract the possibility of a comfortable sleep.

Pros of silicone pillows

Among the advantages of silicone filler:

1. good breathability;
2. hygroscopicity;
3. antibacterial effect;
4. repetition of the anatomical structure of the body;
5. elasticity;
6. thermoregulating properties.

Cons of silicone filler

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

Care and cost of pillows with silicone filler

The silicone pillow is easy to wash in the machine at 40 degrees. Complete drying must be ensured.

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

Linen pillow filling

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

Advantages of linen filler

Filler benefits include:

1. hypoallergenicity;
2. antibacterial properties;
3. elasticity;
4. breathability;
5. moisture removal;
6. long service life - up to 5 years.