How to choose the right pillow for a comfortable sleep: 17 best fillings made from natural and synthetic raw materials + Reviews

The quality of sleep depends on many features: a mattress of suitable firmness, a warm blanket and a comfortable pillow allow you to get a good night's sleep, feel alert and rested in the morning without body aches. Choosing the right bedding is one of the main points. The stores offer a huge assortment, including pillows with various fillings. Each material is specific and has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it is advisable to study the characteristics of all types of “filling” before purchasing.

Introduction

So that every day starts well and joyfully, and the night passes efficiently - choose a pillow that is suitable in size and content. There are orthopedic and classic models designed for infants, children, and adults. Products are also divided into groups according to purpose and functionality.

Good sleep depends on quality bedding

Physiologically incorrect posture during sleep leads to regular stress on the cervical spine. But we sleep 8-9 hours every day, that is, practically a third of our lives. This is a direct road to cervical osteochondrosis, a feeling of weakness, and bad mood throughout the day.

Russian quality system standard

The Roskachestvo standard, in comparison with the current GOST, has stricter parameters for the linear dimensions of the product, the content of free formaldehyde and paint resistance to various influences. In addition, the Roskachestvo standard included additional quality indicators by which the samples presented in the fan study were assessed. Such indicators are: specific surface electrical resistance and change in linear dimensions after wet processing of the upper fabric, the absence of a noticeable odor of the product.

The required level of production localization for awarding a product with the Russian Quality Mark is at least 45% of the cost of the product.

What types of pillows are there?

Orthopedic products

When choosing a specimen, it is wrong to look only at its filler. The shape and purpose of the product matters. All models are conventionally divided into:

1 Classic – standard pillows, soft, with classic padding polyester, down, and feather filling. They do not perform a supporting function for the head and neck. They can be hard, soft, large, small - production has no clear rules or restrictions. It is not recommended to purchase such copies for children or people with problems with the musculoskeletal system, especially the cervical spine . The products are used for design purposes: sofa, interior, decorative. You can sleep on them, but only for extremely healthy people

Classic shape

2 Orthopedic - special pillows that provide comfortable and correct positioning of the body during rest. They support the musculoskeletal system in a natural position and eliminate deformation of the cervical vertebrae. Usually denser, more elastic, unlike classic models

Orthopedic option

They are standard or ergonomic. The latter, in addition, repeat the shape of the head, gently enveloping the body. Some fillers “know how” to remember the contour and outline of the owner.

Horseshoe pillow

According to the shape of the product there are:

• rectangular (length in cm from 40 to 90, width in cm from 30-50)
• square (with sides in cm from 40 to 60)
• rounded
• in the form of a roller (for the lumbar region)
• crescent shaped (for travel)
• free circuit (for pregnant women, feeding)
• with a recess in the central part (for babies)

Pillows can be intended:

• for home sleep
• for relaxing in a sitting position, for example, on an airplane, car
• for meditation
• for unloading the lumbar region (with a sedentary lifestyle)
• for the back. The pillow is placed between or under the knees when sleeping on the side. This helps relieve the load on the lumbar region
• for interior decoration, can have non-standard shapes, in the form of a heart, candy, star, triangle
• for comfortable sleep during pregnancy. These are design products that fold into a comfortable position and are later transformed into a model for breastfeeding or a baby bumper

Pros and cons of different materials

To understand the advantages of different materials, you need to compare the key characteristics of all pillow fillers:

• breathability to maintain the correct bed microclimate;
• hygroscopicity - the ability to absorb and evaporate moisture;
• orthopedic qualities, i.e. the ability to maintain the vertebrae in a natural position;
• the ability to restore shape without beating, it facilitates the daily routine and speeds up the process of making the bed;
• rigidity, which matters for different sleep positions;
• difficulties in care.

Depending on the user’s needs, any filler may be suitable:

• Orthopedic pillows better support the spine, more accurately adapt to the shape of the head and neck, last longer and do not require fluffing.
• Down and fiber pillows made from natural raw materials have better hygroscopicity and give the feeling of comfort familiar from childhood.
• Synthetic fiber pillows are very cheap, but their service life is much shorter and require regular shaking, but they can be used in damp rooms and can be washed in a regular washing machine.

When choosing a new bed, you will have to spend time choosing a comfortable pillow. The variety of fillers, the wide selection of properties and advantages of each material can be confusing, but if you know exactly your needs, choosing a high-quality model from natural or artificial fillers will not be difficult.

Pillow selection criteria

Pay attention to the quality of tailoring, cover fabric, padding density

So, we figured out what types of pillows are. So far, without even touching on the 17 types of fillers. But they have already become confused.

Let's look at the main points to consider when purchasing.

1. The height of the product should correspond to the shoulders. Broad-shouldered people should choose taller pieces
2. Size: There are no clear rules here, so choose a model that you are used to. Some people like to sleep on large pillows, others like small ones. There are lovers of lush specimens or flat “pancakes”
3. Case material. A good model is made of natural, environmentally friendly fabric, which is dense and durable. It does not allow filler particles to pass through, but allows air to circulate freely
4. Seam quality. The stitching should be fine, strong, without gaps or protruding threads
5. Posture also matters. If you sleep on your side, choose firm models; if you sleep on your back, choose medium-firm models. For those who sleep on their stomach, hugging a pillow, the softest options are suitable

Manufacturers rating

1. The English Home company is popular due to its high technology, quality assurance, and environmentally friendly products.
2. Kauffmann produces the softest, most delicate products. Pays special attention to orthopedic products.
3. Brand company Christian Fischbacher, specializing in non-standard design solutions and unique luxurious decor.
4. Serafimovskaya Pushinka is a manufacturer that guarantees high quality products at an affordable price.
5. Le Vele is a company that adheres to the policy of producing anti-allergenic bedding, safe, made from high-quality raw materials.
6. Crystal is a Turkish manufacturer offering a wide range of products at an affordable price.
7. The TAC company specializes in the production of products with artificial filling, guaranteeing hypoallergenicity and safety of use.
8. The Fancy company is a popular manufacturer of children's sleeping products, as well as soft toys.
9. Users like OL-Tex for its additional components with a healing, calming effect.
10. Togas is an international market leader with a wide range of products. Buyers are offered sleep products for every taste.

Types of fillers

Don't be afraid of synthetic fibers

Once the shape, function, size and quality of finish have been sorted out, it’s time to choose the best filler. All of them are divided into natural and artificial. The former, in turn, are divided into products of plant and animal origin.

There is no need to be afraid of synthetic fillers, because they often surpass the quality of natural stuffing in terms of durability, safety, and therapeutic effect. Each content has advantages as well as disadvantages.

What properties should an ideal padding material have?

1. Practicality in care. We use the pillow regularly, intensively, for a long time. It needs to be washed, cleaned, protected from dust
2. Hypoallergenic. People come into contact with the product every day, touching it with their bare skin. For allergy sufferers, it is important to find a suitable filler that will not cause irritation.
3. Heat transfer regulation. After all, at night it’s so cozy to sleep in warmth and comfort
4. Provide air exchange. Allow the material to breathe. This will prevent the occurrence of dampness, mold, and parasites.
5. Keep in shape. Do not bunch up into lumps, do not fall apart into shapeless pieces, but are evenly distributed inside the case, easily straightening out when shaken.

Cheapest

Holofiber

A holofiber pillow is one of the popular and inexpensive models that have been leading in use for a long time. The filling consists of fibers that are twisted and made entirely of balls. Thanks to this, it is possible to use it for a long time while maintaining its original lightness and elasticity.

Advantages:

• Light weight;
• Durability;
• Does not cause allergies;
• Does not absorb foreign odors and moisture.

Flaws:

• Artificial origin.

swansdown

The artificial substitute is produced in the likeness of swan's down; natural filler has not been mined for decades. Polyester fiber consists of thin threads twisted into a spiral and coated with silicone.

The pillow is very light, soft and fluffy, its weight is less than goose down models. During rest, it provides less elastic support than bamboo models.

Among artificial materials, swan down is considered one of the best pillow fillings.

Advantages:

• accessible and inexpensive;
• retains its shape and does not form lumps;
• suitable for people allergic to down;
• is easy to maintain.

Flaws:

• accumulates static electricity;
• absorbs and releases moisture worse than bamboo and eucalyptus.

Sintepon

Today it is one of the cheapest synthetic materials, which perfectly serves as a filler for pillows, mattresses, blankets, and so on. Products based on synthetic padding have no foreign odors, are absolutely hypoallergenic, and bed mites and various harmful microorganisms will not live in them.

Thanks to this, padding polyester pillows are completely safe for the human body. This material is very easy to care for - it can easily withstand both hand and machine washing, and after that it dries in just a couple of hours.

Pillows based on padding polyester are elastic and light, not sensitive to moisture. This filler is characterized by high thermal conductivity - it will be very comfortable to sleep on the pillow even in extremely hot weather. When choosing products, you should look at the thickness of the fibers - you should give preference to products with thinner fibers. It is much more comfortable to rest on such pillows.

Advantages:

• Safe for human health;
• Insignificant mass;
• Good elasticity of the material;
• Resistant to moisture;
• Does not require special care.

Flaws:

• There are no orthopedic qualities.

Synthetic fillers

Different types of packings

The most famous artificial materials are different. Among them there are both budget and expensive options. The higher the cost, the better the quality and health benefits of the accessory.

Let's look at the pros and cons of each synthetic filler.

Sintepon

Sintepon

Synthetic winterizer The predecessor of all modern artificial fillers. The cheapest, but quickly breaks down.

Advantages:

• Soft
• Breathable
• Does not absorb odors
• Hypoallergenic
• Hygienic (machine washable in cold water)

Flaws:

• Quickly clumps
• Does not support the spine in the correct position

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If the product has lost its shape, you can manually extend its service life. Open the cover and take out the lumps. Start filling the form by hand, selecting small tufts and smoothing them flat along the bottom of the cover, alternating the arrangement of layers using the vertical and horizontal method.

Holofiber and comforter

Holofiber

Hollofiber and Comforel The materials are similar in structure and physical properties; they are, in fact, an identical substance. The different names are due to the fact that they were patented by two companies.

As a result, manufacturing techniques have led to slight differences in appearance between materials. Holofiber is a little stiffer and costs a little more. All other qualities of both types of raw materials are not very different.

Advantages:

• Allows air to pass through;
• Hypoallergenic;
• Elastic, soft, light;
• Retains its shape for a long time and springs well;
• Provide an average orthopedic effect;
• Durable;
• They can be washed in a machine (at a temperature not exceeding 40°, in the delicate wash mode);
• Do not conduct static electricity;
• Doesn't collect odors

Flaws:

• High hygroscopicity
• The material quickly absorbs moisture and dries for a long time
• Over time, the filler clumps into clumps

Silicone

Silicone granules

Silicone Siliconized fiber is very warm, voluminous, and at the same time light and airy. This material is very similar to holofiber and trout, but more crumbly. The more intensely you beat such a pillow, the larger it becomes.

This material is called swan down.

Advantages:

• Breathability
• Thermal conductivity
• Hypoallergenic
• Supports the head in a natural position
• Doesn't clump
• Not afraid of frequent washing (can be pressed at high speeds)
• Inexpensive

Flaws:

• Conducts static electricity. It is recommended to wash the product with powder containing an antistatic agent.

Memory foam

The product remembers its “owner”

Memory foam Synthetic foam is one of the best fillers with an orthopedic function. It follows the contours of the head, neck, and spine, gently supporting the musculoskeletal system in a physiologically correct position. It remembers the “owner”, thereby allowing you to immediately find a comfortable, favorite position.

Advantages:

• Hypoallergenic
• Therapeutic effect
• Durability, strength
• The raw materials are not washed, just change the pillowcase

Flaws:

• The material is dense, so it allows air to pass through worse than previous options.
• The pillow is not airy, it is not fluffed
• Rigidity. If you've always slept on soft items, be prepared for it to be uncomfortable at first. Hardness increases as temperature decreases
• Light smell of new plastic. Weathers over time
• Low hygroscopicity, which causes discomfort when sweating
• High price

Expanded polystyrene

The balls have an “anti-stress effect”

polystyrene A crumbly, pleasantly rustling material suitable for pregnant women. This is what is used to fill pillows in the letters “U”, “S”, “L” so that the product can be placed under the head, lower back and knees at the same time. After childbirth, the accessory is used as a bumper for the baby's crib.

Advantages:

• Good support for the body
• Keeps you warm
• Hypoallergenic
• Hygroscopic

Flaws:

• They cannot be washed. You can only update the pillowcase
• Slightly synthetic smell
• Expensive, but they last a maximum of 3 years

Gel

Gel model

Gel Material belongs to varieties that can remember the outlines of the body. Effectively relieves stress on the spine and joints, which is important for people with large weights, those suffering from osteochondrosis and pregnant women.

Advantages:

• Hypoallergenic. Suitable for babies
• Hygiene. The product does not become dirty and does not absorb dust. To clean it, just wipe the surface with an antibacterial wipe.
• Safe for people with bronchopulmonary diseases and asthma
• Unlike foam, gel does not trap air
• The pillows are cool and pleasant to the touch
• Provides a massage effect
• Adapt to the anatomical nuances of the body

Flaws:

• High price
• You need to get used to the gel as a filler
• Tougher than polyester ones
• When sweating, discomfort is felt, since the gel does not absorb moisture

Orthopedic properties

Soy foam

The material is made from soybean oil. Foam perfectly remembers body features. It is added to the main foam filler in the form of a layer or insert.

The material has a long service life - up to 10 years.

Soya foam is considered the softest of all types of foam. When a person lies down on an elastic pillow, under the influence of heat the foam expands and fits the head and neck, following all the curves. It feels as if you are lying on an airy cloud.

Advantages:

• air is freely ventilated through the porous filler;
• evenly supports the body during sleep, remembers features;
• The material is wear-resistant and retains its shape well.

Flaws:

• not suitable for people prone to allergies;
• high cost, but comparatively cheaper than Memory Foam.

Memory Foam

It is polyurethane foam supplemented with chemicals.

The plastic material is a porous structure with small cells. It perfectly adapts to the anatomical features of the body and envelops all the curves of the neck.

The head seems to be in weightlessness; the pressure of the pillow is not felt.

After use, the pillow gradually returns to its original shape. The filler is characterized by the presence of a memory effect.

Memory Foam is more durable and dense foam than its soy counterpart.

Advantages:

• more correct and reliable support for the neck and head;
• bacteria and microorganisms do not multiply, dust does not accumulate.

Flaws:

• not washable, dry clean only;
• a specific smell is felt;
• products are less affordable.

Buckwheat husk

Pillows with this filler will add volume, maintain shape, and also provide a therapeutic effect on the spine.

Advantages:

• Hypoallergenic;
• There is a slight massage and healing effect.

Flaws:

• Rustling when applied;
• Providing special care;
• Short service life;
• Increased rigidity.

Artificial latex

Latex products are made from rubber foam, which is equipped with many holes for proper ventilation. The first days of use, the material may emit a faint sweetish odor, which is instantly neutralized.

Latex quickly absorbs moisture, so it can be used even in summer. Due to antibacterial and hypoallergenic properties, the composition does not contain mold, dust mites, microbes or fungi. Pillows guarantee a comfortable, safe sleep for every person who has certain disorders in the respiratory system, osteochondrosis, scoliosis or other disorders.

Advantages:

• Orthopedic properties;
• No neck pain;
• Convenience;
• Comfortable sleep;
• Affordable price.

Flaws:

• Not detected.

Latex products are suitable even for pregnant women, because the composition does not contain harmful components and does not cause allergies. They relieve stress on the spine, therefore guaranteeing uninterrupted sleep, quick awakening and excellent well-being.

Latex

The material is produced on the basis of special foam, which is made from natural rubber. The result is a porous material, which contains a huge number of holes for ventilation. During the first time of use, a faint, specific aroma may often be felt, which will soon disappear.

Latex foam does not absorb moisture well. It is an antibacterial and hypoallergenic material. In fact, it is a natural and absolutely environmentally friendly antiseptic, where mites, mold, germs, fungi and so on do not settle.

With the help of this pillow, sleep becomes healthier and more comfortable, which makes it optimally suitable for pregnant women. The orthopedic qualities are quite high, so pain in the neck area is reduced. The spine of a resting person is in the correct position, which allows the muscles to completely relax.

Advantages:

• Perfect for allergy sufferers;
• Does not require special care;
• It is comfortable for pregnant women to sleep on pillows with filling;
• The back muscles completely relax.

Flaws:

• Poorly absorbs moisture - not suitable for people with excessive sweating.

Natural fillers of animal origin

Animal wool and down stuffing

Natural filling is the traditional content of our pillows. The material is considered environmentally friendly, but not always hypoallergenic. The raw material is very warm and absorbs moisture well.

Feather

Goose down

Down-feather The ratio of down and feathers may vary. The softness and elasticity of the product depend on this. The composition can be mixed, or both components are placed in separate compartments inside the case.

Goose down, by the way, is softer than duck down.

Advantages:

• Air structure
• Heat resistance
• Hygroscopicity
• Restores fluffiness after vigorous whipping
• Lasts more than 5 years with proper care

Flaws:

• Dust easily accumulates inside and infests parasites.
• No orthopedic effect
• Raw materials are contraindicated for allergy sufferers
• The pen needs to be cleaned and dried regularly. Washable only by dry cleaning
• Feathers prickle
• The material absorbs odors well

Sheep and camel wool

Sheep's wool

Sheep and camel wool Woolen specimens are not as airy as down ones. They are characterized by medium elasticity and rigidity. They do not collect dust or dirt, they are very warm and cozy.

Advantages:

• Breathability
• Absorbs sweat well without releasing an unpleasant odor
• Elasticity
• Performs a therapeutic antirheumatic effect

Flaws:

• Poor quality antiseptic treatment can lead to the appearance of moths, fungi, and mites
• Contraindicated for those suffering from asthma, allergies, bronchial diseases
• Over time, the filler forms clumps and gets crushed
• It needs to be dry cleaned and cannot be washed by yourself. Dry and ventilate regularly

Horsehair

Horsehair

Horse hair This raw material allows you to turn an anatomically unhealthy down pillow into an effective orthopedic accessory. It is also combined with sheep wool to make the product denser and more voluminous.

The pillow turns out to be very tight, retains its shape well, and is durable. Requires maintenance, as is the case with the previous two options. Does not interfere with air circulation, absorbs liquid.

It is not an antiallergic raw material, but it has an antibacterial effect. In such a pillow, the likelihood of bed bugs, ticks or moths is much lower.

Modern bedding is often stuffed with combined compounds. For example, they combine latex and down, wool and holofiber. This allows you to increase the quality of products and their beneficial effects on health.

The best soft

Sheep's wool

This is one of the most affordable options of natural origin, which has always been used as a pillow filler.

Sheep wool pillows

Advantages:

• The vacationer's condition is much better;
• Muscles and joints calm down after sleep;
• Keeps heat and shape, which allows you to warm a person in winter;
• Moisture does not accumulate in the material;
• You can sleep both in winter and in summer.

Flaws:

• Instability to deformation;
• Do not use if there is a possibility of allergies or asthma;
• Constant cleaning with chemicals is required.

Cashmere

The material is mountain goat down, from which the finest fiber is produced.

The top layer of the pillow is made of cashmere, with swan's down or other synthetic fiber placed inside.

When you lie down on the pillow, you feel softness, tenderness and at the same time its strength.

Cashmere is more elastic than sheep's wool, and the product returns to its shape faster. The material retains heat well, but the head does not sweat.

The pillows are durable and water resistant compared to other types of wool.

Advantages:

• no animal fats, suitable for people with allergies;
• has a healing effect, eliminates pain in the spine;
• air circulates freely, moisture is well absorbed and removed.

Flaws:

• does not support the head and neck well;
• High quality down models are expensive.

camel wool

In this case, the raw material is the wool of Bactrian camels. It is very soft, therefore, in order for the pillow to have at least some shape, layers of padding polyester or sheep wool are added to it. In addition, what mix of fillers helps the pillow last as long as possible.

The pomp of a pillow filled with this material is less than that of a sheepskin pillow. However, the level of its thermal conductivity is higher compared to the same material.

Due to the presence of animal wax in the filler, such pillows have a beneficial effect on the skin of the sleeper.

It is very important here that the processing of the wool is of high quality, since otherwise the wool will become itchy.

It is better to choose those models that contain an additional case inside.

Advantages:

• the ability to provide warmth in cold weather and coolness in hot weather;
• help with joint pain - therapeutic effect;
• perfectly absorbs and also evaporates excess moisture.

Flaws:

• improper care can lead to the rapid formation of pellets;
• the appearance of dust mites and microorganisms;
• providing poor support to the cervical spine.

Microfiber

This filler is based on polyester. The material also often contains polyester and polyamide. Their proportions may be equal. This filler is famous for its durability and successfully withstands repeated washings.

The product perfectly retains its shape and color and is not capable of accumulating dust or odors. These pillows are much lighter in weight than down-filled models.

The pillow is tactilely gentle and very soft - lying on it is a pleasure. However, it creates rather weak support for the head. Capable of serving for five years.

Advantages:

• the ability to cool in hot weather, quickly absorb and evaporate moisture;
• the filler “breathes”, since the fiber has a porous structure.

Flaws:

• accumulation and fixation of fat, which causes the pillow to last less long;
• Drying the pillow using radiators or heaters is prohibited.

Seaweed

People who are looking for an answer to the question: which pillow to choose for sleeping are usually very surprised by seaweed filler.

In this case, the raw materials are not subjected to any chemical or thermal treatment. The algae is simply dried and combed out. It is not for nothing that this filler has won the characteristic as the safest. The pillows themselves use thin fiber, which contains many active substances, as well as the addition of swan's down.

The product turns out to be very pliable and soft, but it lacks elasticity and is quite difficult to care for.

This pillow smells of iodine, which has a beneficial effect on the nervous system.

Advantages:

• healing properties;
• good moisture absorption and evaporation;
• due to the presence of calcium and iodine, mites do not appear in the pillow;
• The essential oils contained in the filler promote healthy sleep.

Flaws:

• this filler is softer than wool;
• These pillows will take a lot of getting used to.

Horsehair

Material - horse hair is not common; it is often combined with camel hair, which makes it softer and more comfortable. The products are not designed for those who have problems with the spine, excess weight, or pregnancy. The pillow is characterized by elasticity, does not lose its shape, and is durable.

Antibacterial properties are also noted, which provide good ventilation and guarantee dryness even during heavy sweating. The material requires special attention; it is not suitable for allergy sufferers and people prone to problems with the respiratory system.

Advantages:

• Absorbs moisture well;
• Ventilation;
• Comfort;
• Convenience;
• Preservation of shape.

Flaws:

• Requires careful care;
• Not suitable for allergy sufferers.

Reviews show that the filler is suitable as a pillow for pregnant women, maintains shape, and does not cause neck pain or tension in the lower back. Horsehair in combination with other materials is characterized by durability, can last up to 3 years, without compromising quality, practicality, or comfort.

Natural fillers of plant origin

Plant based fillings

Plant fillers are no less popular than those from synthetic or woolen sources.

Latex model

• Cotton breathes well, absorbs liquid, and is hypoallergenic. But it gathers into clumps, quickly loses its shape, and does not last long
• Buckwheat husk performs orthopedic and massage functions. There are no bugs in it, it does not cause allergies, and it smells nice. Among the disadvantages - it is hard, heavy, it is not washed, but vacuumed (sifted, dried, aired)
• Bamboo is the most environmentally friendly filler with antibacterial qualities. Its fibers are elastic, lush, resilient. It is recommended to wash and dry the product in a dry cleaner
• Latex is a padding with the highest quality orthopedic properties. It adapts to the contours of the body, does not bunch up, and does not cause allergies. Poorly absorbs moisture
• Algae – a pillow with such stuffing has healing properties. During sleep, a person breathes in tiny particles of iodine, manganese, selenium, zinc and other elements
• Silk is the most durable filler, thin, delicate, airy, hypoallergenic
• Herbs - you don’t sleep on them all the time, but you can keep such a pillow next to your bed. The aroma helps you relax, calm down, relax

When choosing pillow filling, consider not only its cost and expected service life. Be sure to keep in mind that natural ingredients can cause allergies and are a favorable environment for the appearance of parasites.

Always lean towards low-maintenance orthopedic pillows. Evaluate the quality of the product itself, the strength of the seams, and the reliability of the material from which the case is made. Ask the seller to let you lay your head down for at least 5 minutes.

A good rest will give you a boost of energy for the whole day.

Shop from reliable stores and don't skimp on your health.

Watch the video to help you choose the perfect filler:

Hypoallergenic

Linen

The pillow consists of three parts. Inside there is loose flax fiber, which is soft. The top contains a thin layer of needle-punched linen to give the product strength. The fiber is put into a thick sheath made from the same plant.

The pillow feels tall and firm. The head and neck are supported anatomically correctly. No response pressure from the pillow is felt. You can smell the aroma of fresh hay.

The linen cover is a little rough and rough to the touch. The material is stronger than cotton and has bactericidal properties.

Advantages:

• allows air to flow better and regulates heat exchange;
• absorbs moisture well, up to 12% of its weight;
• dust mites and bacteria do not reproduce;
• more durable than cotton, durable;
• Thanks to the aroma of herbs, it eliminates sleep disturbances.

Flaws:

• requires delicate care;
• not everyone likes the rough texture;
• has a high cost.

Bamboo

Recently, bamboo filling has become increasingly widespread among the masses. Many manufacturers claim its excellent qualities, but there are also disadvantages. Bamboo fiber threads are excellent at maintaining elasticity and softness even after a long period of use.

Pillow filling: bamboo fiber

Advantages:

• Hypoallergenic material;
• Air permeability;
• Suitable for pregnant women and baby pillow;
• Elasticity;
• Does not accumulate moisture;
• Softness;
• Maintaining a certain microclimate;
• Environmentally friendly product;
• Machine washable.

Flaws:

• Moisture is absorbed very quickly;
• With increased humidity, strength is lost.

Eucalyptus

The fiber is made from the cellulose of the eucalyptus tree. Pesticides and other fertilizers are not used. This is a natural and environmentally friendly material.

The pillow feels soft, light, elastic. During sleep, it does not wrinkle, remains voluminous and provides a good level of support.

Elastic fiber has a beneficial effect on the skin.

Eucalyptus filler is less elastic than bamboo, but differs in that it holds its shape better.

Advantages:

• there is good air exchange;
• absorbs and evaporates moisture better than synthetic counterparts.

Flaws:

• The aroma of essential oil is not suitable for everyone;
• The pillows with it are higher and denser, it takes some getting used to.

Microfiber

The filling is often called “artificial” down. It has an elastic texture, does not cause allergies, does not emit toxic substances and does not absorb foreign odors. Microfiber pillows do not accumulate dust. They can be dry cleaned.

Advantages:

• durability;
• low cost;
• increased dimensional stability;
• good breathability.

Flaws:

• high degree of hygroscopicity;
• ability to accumulate static electricity.

Price issue

Of course, when choosing a pillow model, buyers also pay attention to the cost of the items. You should focus on average prices on the market.

As a rule, pillows filled with down and feather in an equal ratio of material cost around 900 rubles. Synthetics sell for around 200-1500 rubles. There is also bamboo fiber available, which can be bought for an average of 1,500 rubles.

If you are interested in an orthopedic model, then you can buy a pillow in the region of 2500-13000 rubles, but with a sheep wool filling - 6 thousand rubles, if it is 100 percent natural material.

Effective area

The dimensions of the pillows and the aspect ratio are not regulated in any way by current technical regulations. That is, a manufacturer can produce pillows of any size under one condition: information about the linear dimensions of the product on the labeling of such products must be reliable. Otherwise, consumers will face problems when "packing" the pillow into a pillowcase. Moreover, these difficulties can also arise when the actual size of the product differs from the declared size by only 1–2 centimeters. Manufacturers of the following products incorrectly indicated the dimensions of their products: AlViTek, Belashoff, Comfort Line, Ecotex, Ol-Tex, Podushkino, Pierrot, Every Day, IKEA.

In some cases, the deviation on one side was 3 centimeters. Obviously, with such a discrepancy, the pillow will “walk” freely in the pillowcase or will not fit into it, which is unlikely to please consumers. All detected facts of non-compliance with the declared sizes are regarded as a violation of the rights of consumers to reliable labeling of goods.

AFTER REPEATED STUDY

Pillows of the AlViTek Belashoff and IKEA brands, the actual sizes of which, according to the results of the previous study, differed from those indicated in the labeling, now correspond to the declared sizes.

Neutral, acidic or alkaline?

The well-known pH value from advertising characterizes the acidity or alkalinity of an aqueous solution.
A pH level of 5.0 to 7.5 units is considered safe for human skin. If the deviation is higher, we can talk about an increased content of alkali in the solution, and if the deviation is lower, it means acid. Until recently, the pH level for bedding was not standardized in any way by current standards in Russia. For the first time, the Roskachestvo standard puts forward such requirements for pillows, since these products regularly and for a long time (on average, sleep lasts 7–8 hours) come into contact with the delicate skin of the face. In order to establish the pH level in the fabrics of the upper of the product, experts in the laboratories obtained an aqueous extract from each sample. As a result of the research, a pH deviation from the requirements of the increased Roskachestvo standard was revealed in six products. In each of the identified cases, the pH value exceeded 7.5 units, which indicated increased alkalinity of the aqueous extracts of the products under study. AFTER REPEATED STUDY

One product was found not to meet the advanced standards. We are talking about pillows from the Dargez brand, in which an elevated pH level was detected. Despite the fact that this indicator is not standardized in any way by law, it is provided for by the Roskachestvo standard.

During laboratory tests, the following were also determined in each of the samples: the toxicity index of materials, indicators of color fastness to various influences, odor intensity and the presence of free formaldehyde in fabrics. According to the results of the study, these parameters in all samples were within normal limits.