Comparison of bamboo fiber and swan down pillows

In this article we will look at the advantages of bamboo and swan down pillows

Did you know that in a dream the weight of a person's head is just over 10% of the total body weight? And the quality of your sleep depends on how comfortably you lay it down. So choosing a comfortable, orthopedicly correct pillow is an urgent necessity, and not an idle childish activity.

One of the most important functions of all pillows without exception is the ability to support the head, the back of the head and the cervical spine, allowing the muscles and skeletal system to fully rest. And these functions directly depend on the filler. The most popular currently are swan's down and bamboo, and both the first and second options have plenty of zealous fans. So let's figure out which ones are better.

Natural and environmentally friendly

Bamboo fiber. Lovers of natural materials should pay attention to bamboo models.
The filler is made from young bamboo shoots by processing raw materials. The result is a high-quality material “bamboo flax” - when produced mechanically, or “bamboo viscose” when a chemical method is used. If the tag contains information about 100% composition, then this refers to the material of the pillow top. The cover is made of fabric made from natural bamboo fiber, and polyester, polyester or artificial swan down has been added to the filling with viscose obtained from the plant. Most models are produced in this way: the cover is sewn from cotton fabric, the inner layer includes bamboo viscose - 30-70% and synthetic fiber.

Swansdown. The filler does not contain natural material. Manufacturers use artificial swan down.

Pillows with natural raw materials are no longer produced, since one product requires collecting down from ten birds during the seasonal molting period, and the swans themselves are listed in the Red Book.

Therefore, we developed microfiber, similar to natural fluff. Soft, elastic and ultra-fine hairs, twisted in a spiral, are treated with silicone. The result is fluffy polyester balls. The substitute is considered a worthy analogue of swan's down.

Bamboo pillows contain natural, environmentally friendly material. The unpretentious plant is grown without the use of pesticides, and products made from it are safe.

The swan down substitute does not contain natural raw materials. The material is close to the original in structure and appearance. Modern technologies make it possible to produce high-quality fiber that does not harm human health.

According to the criterion under consideration, bamboo products are better than their swan down counterparts.

What filler should I choose for my pillow?

The pillow primarily ensures the correct position of the head from a physiological point of view and protects against curvature of the spine. When choosing, it is important to rely on your own preferences, because some people like small and dense pillows, while others prefer to sleep on large and soft ones. Another important factor is pain in the neck and the risk of developing osteochondrosis. In this case, you should pay attention to products with an orthopedic effect.

1. Down pillows
   are soft, light, airy. A classic option with comfort and attractiveness. This is an inexpensive pillow that, with proper care, will last about 5 years. The main problem is dust, which causes irritation of the mucous membrane and respiratory tract. Otherwise, there are no complaints, especially considering the low cost.
2. Bamboo fiber
   is a progressive and popular option. Natural ingredients have a positive effect on the body. Bamboo creates density and provides high-quality neck support, although serious problems will require special orthopedic products. A model with bamboo fiber will cost more, but it allows air to pass through better and retains heat.

In the following articles, our experts tell you how to choose an orthopedic pillow and compare pillow fillings - bamboo and camel hair.

Degree of support

The pillow is important not only for supporting the head and the natural curve of the neck, the position of the spine during sleep must also be correct.

The bamboo pillow is moderately elastic and soft, it has an average degree of support. The spring properties of the product allow the head to rest comfortably while resting. The spine is in a natural position and does not cause tension in the cervical muscles.

A swan down pillow also falls into the medium-hard category. They differ from their bamboo counterpart in that they are less elastic. Tall, fluffy swan down pillows are quite soft.

Products made from both fillers provide an optimal degree of support. Thanks to the natural characteristics of the tropical plant, bamboo pillows have increased elasticity compared to models made from swan's down. Consumers note that bamboo bedding provides a greater feeling of freshness and coolness.

The best manufacturers

Among Russian manufacturers of down and feather products, three leading companies clearly stood out:

• Grass Family.
  The products are stuffed with a mixture of goose down and feathers, and the filling is packed in a thick cover made of natural cotton. The company's production resources are partially located in Austria, so all products undergo strict quality control.
• "Light dreams."
  The company additionally ozonizes down and feather raw materials, thereby preventing the appearance of dust mites and fungus.
• "Premium Leader"
  Sells high-quality down and feather pillows at affordable prices, uses satin covers.

Domestic companies received the best reviews about bedding with synthetic fillers:

• "Dargez"
  for the best price-quality ratio in products with holofiber.
• Revery
  is a manufacturer of orthopedic memory foam pillows.
• "Ascona"
  for the widest range of products with synthetic hypoallergenic fillers.

Degree of moisture absorption

Bamboo pillows are characterized by excellent hygroscopicity. They perfectly absorb moisture and quickly evaporate it. Bamboo fiber has a porous structure, products made from it have an optimal level of humidity. The fabric does not stick to the skin and dries instantly. Thanks to this property, pillows made from vegetable filling do not accumulate lingering odors.

In humid climates, hygroscopicity becomes a disadvantage of bamboo fiber, as the pillow becomes damp and uncomfortable to sleep on. The product will not dry out and will gradually become unusable. However, such a climate is rare for the territory of Russia.

Pillows made from swan down are characterized by low hygroscopicity.
Fibers treated with silicone do not absorb moisture. Products almost always remain dry and dry quickly. Foreign odors are also not absorbed. Which product is better, in this case it is better to decide based on your own preferences. In damp climates, it is advisable to use a swan down pillow. Those who suffer from excessive sweating are not recommended to sleep on it.

Antibacterial

Bamboo fiber contains a natural antibiotic that prevents the appearance of harmful microorganisms. The material soothes and protects the skin, destroying bacteria. Bamboo fiber helps reduce infections.

Expert opinion

Kevin G

Professor at the University of California

In light of the rise of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, the development of antimicrobial and antibacterial textiles could be a major advance in the battle against the spread of infection.

Pillows made from swan down cannot boast of this property. But mold and putrefactive formations do not appear in the filler. Synthetic material is an unattractive environment for bacteria to grow.

Average cost of fillers

Alas, often the determining factor when choosing a pillow is its cost. And this is not surprising, because the difference in price between products can reach 5-10 times. Therefore, we have compiled a comparative table of approximate prices for 50x70 cm pillows with different fillings.

Please note: the table shows the minimum prices for pillows. If the cost of the product is lower, most likely the manufacturer used a mixed filler, supplementing the expensive natural material with synthetic fibers.

(1 rating, average 4 out of 5)

Difficulty of care

Siliconized (bamboo) fiber.

Both analogue pillows are simple and undemanding to maintain. The main thing is that before using the products, you need to study the indications on the label because the requirements are not the same for all models, even of the same type.

Wash

Bamboo pillows . Products can be washed manually or in an automatic machine. It is better to use delicate mode. The water temperature should be 30-35°C. Powders cannot be used; gel detergents are suitable. It is prohibited to rub bamboo pillows with brushes or hard sponges. After washing, the pillow must be gently fluffed to avoid deformation of the product. If there is a removable cover, then it is enough to wash only it.

Swan down pillows . Can be safely washed in a regular machine. The water temperature should be optimal, approximately 35°C. You need to select a delicate wash cycle. It is advisable to use liquid detergents. In specialized stores there are capsules with gel intended for washing pillows.

Drying

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Overall, bamboo pillows still require more gentle washing. It is necessary to take into account that the filler of plant origin quickly wrinkles and therefore it is forbidden to squeeze the product too hard. Swan down pillows are easy to wash, but do not forget about proper drying.

Regular care

It is best to always shake bamboo pillows before use to ensure even distribution of the filling. Both types of pillows need to be aired outside 2-3 times a year, but not in the sun. Synthetic down does not tolerate overheating at all; bamboo fiber also requires careful handling.

Durability

Pillows with bamboo filling quickly wrinkle and lose their original shape. With proper care, the service life increases, but rarely exceeds 3-4 years.

A swan down pillow holds its shape better than a bamboo pillow, and the filling does not bunch up. The fiber has a springy structure. When compressed, the filler instantly expands and restores its original shape. Service life on average is 5 years.

According to this criterion, products made from swan down are better than a similar option.

swansdown

This is a fiber of artificial origin, reminiscent in texture and performance characteristics of its natural counterpart. Such pillows are considered universal, provide sufficient softness, have an orthopedic effect and are affordable.

Advantages:

• Hypoallergenic;
• a light weight;
• does not absorb foreign odors;
• high wear resistance, breathability;
• lack of a favorable environment conducive to the growth of bacteria.

But this filler is not elastic enough, so it may not hold its shape well.

Final comparison table of properties

Bamboo pillows are overly soft, but only the classic type of product belongs to this category. Orthopedic models are denser and are suitable for people predisposed to osteochondrosis and already having spinal diseases: protrusions, hernias, pinched nerve endings. A bamboo pillow is ideal for people suffering from allergic reactions and bronchial asthma. For those who like to sleep on their back or side, this is a good option.

Bamboo fiber

This type of filler is ideal for connoisseurs of natural materials. Currently, they are gaining particular popularity due to their hypoallergenicity and environmental friendliness. The basis of the filler is cellulose fiber , which is obtained as a result of chemical and mechanical processing of real bamboo. A huge advantage is the healing effect of the product and the absence of dust accumulation.

The filler is quite wear-resistant and has high ventilation properties. It is a good thermostat, which allows you to create comfortable conditions for a person to fully relax. The price of products with such a filler is significantly higher than that of its competitor.

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Pillows made from swan down are fluffy, soft, and less dense. They are suitable for allergy sufferers and people with sensitive skin. Those who suffer from excessive sweating should not purchase such pillows. Please note that the product accumulates static electricity and your hair may become dry and brittle. But an antistatic agent will help eliminate this problem. Great for back sleepers.

Both types of pillows are comfortable and practical, they are affordable, allow air to pass through well, and are easy to care for. That's why they are the most common.

Bamboo fiber, Swan's down