Pillow fillers: choosing the best in 2024

Probably, each of us likes to wake up feeling that he had a good night's sleep. And here one of the decisive factors is the sleeping pillow, the composition of which affects a good rest. It is used for the purpose that the spine does not deform at night while in the supine position. But, what selection criteria exist in order to correctly choose an accessory, and with what filler can it be purchased? How much does each pillow option cost, and which one is best to buy? We will tell you in this article.

When should you consider changing your pillow?

The choice of pillows for many becomes a very difficult process, because from a misunderstanding of what this design should be, it leads to many disagreements. But, when you feel at least one of the following symptoms, it is better to go straight to the store:

1. When lifting, you are always tired, and it is difficult to stretch your neck and spine. Headache may also occur here;
2. The homogeneity of the pillow is broken;
3. The shape of the pillow is not the same;
4. An unpleasant odor is observed.

Top pillow manufacturers

The popularity of models is calculated by a list of many factors. One of the rather important questions is "Which company is better?" And it is quite reasonable because trusted manufacturers will always adhere to manufacturing standards that are tested to a high level. The rating of quality manufacturers consists of the following representatives:

1. Billerbeck;
2. MirSon;
3. Sonex.

However, this list is far from being exhaustive.

How to make the right choice?

Here it is worth focusing on its quality characteristics and functionality, which determine the quality of proper rest and recuperation for the entire long working day. And the pillow is an individual adaptation of each person, which must be selected not only according to the recommendations of specialists, but also according to their own preferences.
Of course, quality always comes first, and the dimensions will not be so fundamental, because they can be different. When choosing here, several basic indicators matter:

• Rigidity.
  Stiffness will directly depend on the position in which you sleep. And when you have spinal diseases or you just like to fall asleep on the side, it is better to choose the maximum degree of this characteristic. For those who spend most of their sleep on their backs, it is recommended to take medium rigidity. For those who like to sleep on their stomach, soft pillow options are the best choice.
• Height.
  When it comes to height, the most common variation ranges from 10 to 15 cm.But, there is an unspoken rule according to which this characteristic should be equal to the shoulder width of a sleeping person.
• The form.
  When you cannot decide on the form, then you should know two main options:

1. Classic. Usually these are rectangular or square pillows, which are made from both natural and synthetic components. They do not have special head or neck support.
2. Orthopedic pillow, which is recommended for healing whole. The advantages of this option are that it is rigid and does not undergo any deformation during use. But many experts recommend using an orthopedic pillow only for short sleep. This is justified by the fact that such models are developed according to the physiological characteristics of each person and allow to reduce headache and discomfort in the spine, taking the anatomical view of the body structure.

Fillers for pillows

One of the most important criteria that affects sleep efficiency and quality is filler. It can be either natural or artificial. Each of these options has both advantages and disadvantages. And, in order to choose the right one or another pillow, you should understand the presented classifications.

Natural pillow filler

Down or feather filling

This is the most acceptable and long-known component with a natural filler. It is used only when you have no allergic reactions. It is worth noting that this is one of the most expensive options, but the final price depends on the size and amount of down and feathers.

• Heat exchange support at the required level;
• Hygroscopicity;
• Sleep comfort;
• Easy restoration of the original shape.

• Do not use for allergy sufferers;
• Requires special care in the form of drying and chemical cleaning;
• Short lifespan because the nib can deteriorate.

Sheep's wool

This is one of the more affordable natural varieties and has always been used as a pillow filler.

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

• Deformation resistance;
• Does not apply if allergies or asthma may occur;
• Need constant cleaning with chemicals.

Bamboo

Recently, more and more bamboo filler began to spread to the masses. Many manufacturers claim its excellent qualities, but there are also disadvantages. Bamboo fiber strands are excellent for maintaining elasticity and softness even after a long period of use.

• 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.

• Moisture is absorbed very quickly;
• At high humidity, strength is lost.

Vegetable filler for pillows

Today, most manufacturers focus on the production of components with vegetable fillers. Here you can find medicinal herbs, algae, buckwheat husks and much more. The latter option is used in most cases.

Buckwheat husk

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

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

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

Artificial pillow fillers

Silicone

Silicone filler is able to give the element a large volume, as well as the necessary elasticity and quick restoration of its original appearance.

• Good price;
• Durable material;
• Does not accumulate dust;
• Does not cause allergies.

• The origin of the material is unnatural, which repels many buyers.

Polyester fiber

Such material has recently appeared on the market and is included in budget models, but has already earned the trust of many buyers. It can be made in 2 types: threads or in the form of fine fibers that have been treated with silicone. Thanks to this, the fibers do not bind to each other and can retain their original appearance on the pillow for a long time. You will never see lump formation here. Good for decorative pillows.

• Keeps warm for a long time;
• Good circulation of air exchange;
• Moisture and foreign odors are not absorbed;
• Prevents the occurrence of allergies and asthma;
• Good price;
• Easy to wash.

• Does not hold the shape of the head and neck, because the construction is very soft;
• Short service life.

Microfiber

Microfiber is included in the types of artificial fillers and has always been considered unnatural down, which has absorbed the most popular characteristics, but at the same time there is no problem with it with the occurrence of allergic reactions. Thanks to the good fiber texture, the pillow stays usable for a long time.

• Does not absorb foreign odors;
• Does not collect dust;
• Additional care in the form of dry cleaning is not needed.

• Pillows can become electrified.

Viscoelastic

Among the most popular pillows with synthetic filling, which are of good quality, viscoelastic has a separate position. This is due to the presence of incredible properties that allow the pillow to take the shape of the head and upper spine. After use, it easily restores its appearance and returns to its original position.

• Comfortable sleep at any time of the year;
• During sleep, the pillow is able to maintain the state in a natural position;
• The material does not absorb foreign odors;
• Air exchange is present.

• Cannot be washed;
• Overpriced.

Microgel

Another representative, which in its properties is similar to natural material - down. The pillows are quite soft and lightweight. After application, they can easily restore their original volume.

• Resistant to moisture;
• Good air permeability;
• Comfortable sleeping conditions when using.

• High price.

Holofiber

The holofiber pillow is included in popular and inexpensive models that have been at the forefront of use for a long time. The filler consists of fibers that are twisted and are made entirely of balls. Thanks to this, there is the possibility of long-term use while maintaining the original lightness and elasticity.

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

• Artificial origin.

Some data on other options

Of course, not all pillow filling options are listed. After all, there are still species with eucalyptus, with cotton, with latex, with coconut fillings, which also have both advantages and disadvantages. Do not forget about the camel wool pillow, which is quite expensive, and not everyone can afford to buy it.
Linen-filled pillows are an eco-novelty that is now available for purchase by anyone.

Pillows in which there is a synthetic winterizer are the first version of synthetic models.It has been used quite widely over the years.
The foam version has a number of advantages and significant disadvantages that oust it from popular models.

The use of polystyrene is very often necessary for pregnant women who cannot sleep comfortably and calmly during this period.

And of course, in recent years, more and more often you can find an option in which memory foam is used. Research has proven its effectiveness, so the accessory is becoming more common.

Some tips for choosing a pillow

After you have decided for yourself that you need to urgently purchase a pillow, you should summarize all the above parameters and remember a few tips:

• The seams on the pillow should be straight and strong. They are carried out only with neat small stitches.
• When buying, it is worth examining the entire surface of the pillow for small holes. It is worth remembering that the filler may subsequently fall out through them. And after a while you can get a pillow of a smaller volume.
• The duration of use will depend on the characteristics of the original components and on the sewing, therefore, during the initial inspection, it is worth carefully examining the seams, pulling them a little and assessing the quality.
  Priority should still be given to high-quality covers that are not capable of electrifying, and will also feel pleasant to the touch, and will not contribute to the development of allergies and irritation on the skin.
• It is best to choose a pillow that is equipped with a cover with a lock. This will allow you not only to make the cover removable and replace it if necessary, but also to adjust the height and firmness of the pillow. This can be done by removing excess filler, or vice versa adding additional volume to it. When it comes to choosing covers, the all-cotton option is best in demand. Also, in second place are terry cloth and microfiber, which are distinguished by a long service life and lightness. These covers are very easy to wash and do not cause allergic reactions. Very often they are recommended for use by children. But, it is worth remembering that in this case, a combined version can also go, for example, from bamboo and cotton.

Average price for fillers

In the event that you do not know how to choose a pillow, then it is worth reading the material above. One of the criteria will be price selection. The table shows the cost of pillows filled with 50x70 cm.

№	Filler option	Average price, rub
Natural filler
1	Feather	1240
2	Sheep's wool	720
3	Bamboo	650
Vegetable filler
1	Buckwheat husk	840
Synthetic filler
1	Silicone	780
2	Polyester fiber	540
3	Microfiber	790
4	Viscoelastic	735
5	Microgel	1150
6	Holofiber	430