The duration of a night's rest and the conditions in which people spend it greatly influence both mood and health, so the pillow must be of good quality. Its shape and filling also determine how comfortable your sleep will be.
The first thing you should pay attention to when buying a pillow is the material with which it is filled. Companies that produce household items offer many options for fillers; they can be roughly divided into two groups. The first includes products made from natural materials, and the second - from synthetic raw materials.
The review presents the best fillers from each group. Experts objectively describe the properties of each of them, taking into account elasticity, softness and wear resistance. It's safe to say that every person needs good sleep.
Therefore, orthopedists advise learning everything about the headrest material before purchasing it. To ensure that the spine is in the correct position, it is important what kind of material the pillow is filled with. How to choose a pillow for sleeping is written in the material.
Comfortable sleep is the key to health
Most often, siliconized fiber is used as a filler for pillows and blankets. We are talking about so-called silicone bedding, with which the domestic consumer is already well acquainted. Such products appeared on the market quite a long time ago, and almost every resident of Russia has experienced their advantages and disadvantages. But this filler is improved every year. Along with new qualities, it receives new names (holofiber, fiber, isosoft, syntapuh). They sound quite complicated, and for many their essence remains incomprehensible, and therefore a little further we will understand the main types of this material.
Siliconized fiber is also used to fill children's bedding, and therefore consumers cannot help but worry about its reliability and safety. Doctors and manufacturers unanimously convince the population that there is nothing dangerous in such products; moreover, they are in many ways superior to traditional down, cotton and wool pillows, blankets and feather beds. Siliconized fiber has improved hygienic characteristics; it does not cause allergic reactions and is not a breeding ground for various bacteria and parasitic microorganisms.
New doesn't always mean worse
For centuries, people have placed under their heads and covered themselves with bedding, the basis of which was animal hair, down and feathers of birds, or various fillers of plant origin (processed flax stalks, buckwheat husks). This is the main argument heard by defenders of natural materials used for stuffing pillows and blankets. Yes, of course, they have the necessary hygroscopicity and environmental safety, and such accessories will last for several decades, which cannot be said about modern analogues, which contain siliconized fiber inside.
But, as practice shows, the vast majority of people who tried to sleep on pillows with artificial filling forever forgot about their old bedding, putting them on high mezzanines or simply throwing them away.
It happens that the pillow is perfectly matched in height and size. But it doesn't hold its shape for long. Your head falls into a hole as soon as you lie down. In the morning you feel that your neck is stiff. And in general, it was hot to sleep. This happens due to incorrectly selected firmness and filling for the pillow. Let's figure out what you need to know about the “inner world” of a pillow.
The comfort of a pillow directly depends on the filler. Natural or artificial components are used as the filling material for this sleeping accessory. The main synthetic fillers include:
- Artificial down
- Foam materials
- Latex
- Polyurethane foam (PPU)
- Silicone balls
- Holofiber
Modern artificial down is almost as good as natural down. It is as soft and warm as natural filler. Pillows made of this material do not make unnecessary sounds when changing positions, which is important for light sleepers. Artificial down consists of twisted spirals of fibers treated with silicone. It has a significant drawback - the material is prone to electrification. Hello, daily hair washing and styling.
Those who like to turn their pillow over to the cool side before going to bed will like the following fact - down pillows do not overheat. No wonder they have a large number of admirers around the world. It is important to buy a quality pillow and take good care of it. Pay attention, for example, to the PROMTEX-ORIENT SWON MIK .
Orthopedic foam pillows are an excellent choice, although in the price category they are somewhat out of line. MR. MATTRESS FLY W and MR. MATTRESS BREMEN S adapts to the anatomical features of the body, helping to relax as much as possible. New generation pillows also help maintain youthful skin. They have a unique shape that does not create creases on the skin. On such a pillow, the morning will not only be good and healthy, but also beautiful.
Latex pillows . They are hygienic and wear-resistant. But there is a drawback that prevents them from winning the hearts of the public - the latex filler has a specific smell. In addition, it does not retain heat. This will be a decisive advantage when choosing a summer pillow, but in the cold season the coolness of latex is unlikely to please you. The material has increased elasticity. For those who like it softer, this pillow will even seem hard.
Silicone filler has excellent qualities - it holds its shape, prevents the growth of bacteria, and is of medium softness. One could say that the material is perfect. Try it yourself by choosing the ASKONA VITA HOME BLISS with Taktile granular filler. It perfectly supports the neck and head, provides optimal cooling by a couple of degrees, ensures air circulation and is hypoallergenic.
Polyurethane foam pillows are excellent helpers in the fight against ailments of the musculoskeletal system. They help reduce the pressure placed on the spine. Under thermal influence and load, PU foam, as in PROSON ORMA , follows the contours of the body, gently and evenly distributing pressure, thereby reducing tension in the muscles. The disadvantages of the filler are quite banal - poor breathability, tendency to overheat and a specific smell. Those who want to switch to this type of pillow from soft ones need an adaptation period. At first it will be difficult to get used to the new rigidity.
Holofiber is one of the most unpretentious and affordable materials. It is soft and at the same time elastic, germs do not grow inside it, and dust does not accumulate. Holofiber is easy to care for, as it retains its properties after machine washing. Does not absorb odors. But there is a minus - a pillow with such filling only lasts 2-3 years.
Natural fillings for pillows
When it comes to sleep accessories, the statement “natural means better” does not work so clearly. Natural components inside the pillow give the product excellent properties. However, the characteristics of such materials must also be taken into account. The main natural fillers include:
- Goose and duck down
- Buckwheat husks and cedar shavings
- Sheep's wool
- Bamboo
- Feather
Natural goose or duck down is a strong allergen and an excellent breeding ground for bacteria. Plus, the material accumulates moisture and needs to be carefully looked after. Another disadvantage is the fact that the down-feather mixture is fragile, quickly breaks down, and the pillow will lose its volume. Advantages of pillows with natural down: good thermoregulation; head and neck support; the material does not rustle and “breathes” perfectly.
Buckwheat husks and cedar shavings are all-purpose fillings for pillows. They have the qualities of synthetic materials, although they are natural and environmentally friendly. Among the minuses, it is worth noting the rigidity, which not everyone can get used to. The pillow may also rustle when you change position.
Sheep or camel wool is good as a filling for pillows. It is soft and maintains optimal thermal balance. But it has a couple of significant disadvantages: over time, the filler may clump; Wool is contraindicated for allergy sufferers.
Bamboo fiber is an environmentally friendly material that has recently begun to be used in sleep products Easy to clean, does not accumulate dust. But with high humidity it loses its strength.
Today, feather pillows no longer have the same set of shortcomings that traditional ones had: feathers for pillows are processed carefully, completely eliminating the presence of parasites in the new product. Are you still sleeping on the pillow you inherited? Do you remember these sensations from childhood, when the shaft of a feather came out through your pillowcase and stuck into the delicate skin of your cheek? Brrrrr, too expensive to pay for nostalgia. Pay attention to the modern models TROIS COURONNES MAO or TROIS COURONNES DUKE NORMAL and feel the difference.
Artificial fillers for bed linen
Siliconized fiber (or also called fiber) is the finest threads made from polyester. Each type of fiber mainly has a different structure and shape of the fibers. They can be solid or hollow inside. The latter are fibers of the latest type, which have increased resistance to deformation.
And the shape of the filler can be straight or twisted into a miniature spiral. This fiber configuration allows it to resist deformation even more effectively, as well as restore its shape after creasing, which is especially important for pillows.
Most often, consumers have to deal with the following types of siliconized fiber:
- Holofiber is a very thin material, its threads are smaller in cross-section than a human hair, yet it is incredibly light, does not absorb moisture, and therefore warms very well. Most often used to fill clothes.
- Sintepon is a pioneer among fillings for pillows and blankets. Cheap but short-lived raw materials.
- Fibers coated with silicone are an improved analogue of padding polyester. Thiner. Due to the silicone shell, it has a longer service life and is pleasant to the touch.
- Sintapuh is an artificial filler, one of the types of siliconized fibers, but with a different structure. We will talk about it in more detail a little further.
Silicone manufacturers make their filler in four versions, each of which has its own level of elasticity, which, in fact, determines its quality. The denser the filler is in structure, the more expensive it is. The most valuable are spiral and ball silicone. The blankets are usually filled first, and the pillows second.
Synthetic fillers
Polyester, polyester and other fibers of non-natural origin are most often used as synthetic raw materials.
Their main difference is what technology the craftsmen use for manufacturing. In addition, they are designed for different service lives and have a different feel.
Synthetics can be dense and springy, or, on the contrary, light, like down.
As a rule, non-natural materials do not cause allergic reactions, they are quite soft and easy to care for.
However, they can quickly lose their original shape. Synthetics can mat and there is no way to prevent this.
It is important for allergy sufferers to know that there are no ideal pillows, so before purchasing, allergists advise taking into account all the pros and cons. Sometimes household items can be made to order at a factory.
Experts point out that adults and children should buy products that can withstand frequent machine washing. If you need to understand the fillers and find out which one is better, you can find out their basic properties.
Silicone
Silicones are considered one of the most comfortable materials. The basis for them is hollow siliconized fibers, which are made of polyester.
The raw materials are carefully processed, which makes them very soft. It is easy to care for, for example, soak it in hand wash.
To do this, make a soap solution. You can wash the pillow in a machine (washing temperature – 40°). It is recommended to buy a pillow that is filled with silicone balls, as they are more durable compared to other forms.
Silicone is voluminous and elastic, it quickly restores its original appearance. The raw materials are durable and sold at low prices; they do not accumulate dust and debris.
Silicone beads do not cause allergic reactions. However, it is important to remember that this material is synthetic, which sometimes makes people doubt its harmlessness.
Polyester
It began to be used not so long ago, and pillows with such filling are sold at affordable prices. The material may consist of threads or thin fibers treated with silicone.
Thus, the fiber does not tangle and can maintain its shape for a long time.
Polyester does not form lumps and is often used for sofa cushions.
In addition, polyester has the following properties:
- keeps warm;
- allows air to pass through;
- does not absorb moisture and odor;
- hypoallergenic;
- easy to wash.
However, polyester cannot hold the shape of the head because it is very soft. These pillows are not designed for long-term use.
Microfiber
This synthetic material is called “artificial down.” It combines all its properties. But unlike down, microfiber does not cause allergies.
Its texture is very elastic, which makes the filler durable and easy to clean. Microfiber does not absorb foreign odors, does not accumulate dust, and does not need to be dry-cleaned.
The main disadvantage of microfiber is that it becomes electrified.
Viscoelastic
This synthetic raw material has become one of the most popular in its category. Viscoelastic is a good quality filler that is comfortable to sleep on. This material combines different properties, their combination makes it durable. The viscoelastic pillow follows the shape of the neck and head.
At the same time, it quickly restores its original appearance, since viscoelastic is quite dense and elastic. During rest, it maintains the cervical vertebrae in the correct position.
The pillow will not absorb odors because air circulates well in it. However, it is important to remember that viscoelastic cannot be washed.
Microgel
Microgel belongs to a group of synthetic fibers that are similar in softness to goose down. It makes light and comfortable pillows. Even after a long sleep, the microgel quickly restores volume.
It is resistant to high air humidity and has good breathability. With microgel, excellent sleep is guaranteed! One of its disadvantages is its high price.
Holofiber
Which pillow is better to sleep on? Experts know the answer; they advise buying holofiber filling. Stores sell different types of it, for example, elball, etc. Holofiber will not weigh down the pillow.
It is soft and at the same time elastic, microbes do not grow inside it, and debris does not accumulate. Holofiber is easy to care for, as it retains its properties after numerous machine washes.
The material does not wrinkle when squeezed out; its shape is immediately restored.
Synthetic holofiber filler is sold everywhere, is inexpensive and at the same time durable. It consists of fibers that are twisted.
The raw material is made from small balls, so it can be used for a long time, as it maintains its lightness, softness and strength for a long time.
Holofiber does not cause allergic reactions, does not retain foreign odors, and does not absorb moisture.
How is silicone different from padding polyester?
All the negativity that consumers have regarding bedding with artificial filler is mainly associated with padding polyester. This substance is, in principle, unsuitable for sewing blankets and pillows. This is a material that is used to make bedspreads, bumpers for children's beds, and decorative pillows. This is primarily due to the fact that synthetic winterizer does not have sufficient hygienic characteristics:
- hygroscopicity;
- ventilation;
- sufficient cleanliness.
Moreover, synthetic padding pillows and blankets become loose within a few months of use. In less than a year, the product becomes flat and shapeless, especially if it has been subjected to frequent washing. Silicone, on the contrary, will last at least 3 years. Bedding with such filling can be washed, after which its fibers not only do not get knocked down, but restore their original shape.
Other fillers, how they differ from siliconized fiber
Holfitex, what is it: polyester thread, not finished with silicone. It is also used as a filler. Elastic, soft, shape-resistant fiber. It comes in the form of balls and layers. Accessories with similar internals will last two to three years.
Eucalyptus and bamboo varieties are made from viscose. These are artificial options. They absorb moisture very well, release moisture, and have antimicrobial properties. Not allergic. They do not emit smells or make sounds. Service term up to three years.
Linen filler is made from real fibers. Quickly allows moisture and air to pass through. It's always dry under such a blanket. Flax threads are treated with real chemical-free products and are non-allergenic. Flax fibers are antibacterial and disinfectant. They will serve for up to five years. With profuse sweating, this period is reduced by half.
- Margarita, 24 years old: I like my artificial pillow. It's soft and comfortable. It was too hard to sleep on a feather pillow, but at the moment I'm happy with it.
- Elena, 37 years old: I have an allergic reaction to almost everything. Thanks to this, all bedding accessories are made of silicone filler. Most of all I love the blanket, it is so light.
- Daria, 41 years old: I don’t accept synthetics. Quite convenient, no doubt. But I'm sweating a lot. Because of this, I choose natural materials. Sometimes it’s even a pity that this won’t suit me.
Siliconized filling is perfect for blankets and pillows if a person suffers from an allergic reaction. These products are purchased for all family members; they are not harmful to children.
Swan Tale
The relatively new filler swan down has nothing to do with noble birds. Its name is a clever marketing ploy and a sales pitch that many consumers take at face value. In fact, it is also a siliconized fiber.
In blankets, its use is especially justified because it holds its shape well and does not bunch up over time at the seams and in the corners. This filler is of good quality, but costs a little more than its analogues. Products based on swan down, like other silicone pillows and blankets, can be machine washed (on a delicate cycle), but you should not use aggressive detergents.
Characteristics of siliconized fiber
The material has pros and cons. The good side:
- Due to the structure in the middle, heat is retained. Suitable for any weather, maintains the required temperature.
- Does not make creaking or rustling sounds. Doesn't go outside.
- The silicone cushion is elastic and quickly takes its original shape. Maintains its original appearance for a long time.
- Non-allergenic fabric, will repel dust. Not suitable for the development of mites, microbes, mold.
- Silicone pillows adapt to the individual anatomy of a person. It is more comfortable to sleep on them than on ordinary ones.
- Low cost. Everyone will be able to find a suitable product.
- Good exchange of air. Easy to care for products. They are soft and comfortable to store.
- Silicone blankets are very light. The weight is practically not felt, it is pleasant to sleep under them. The filler is odorless. Will not absorb third-party aromas.
- Does not require special care. Easy to machine wash. Dries very quickly.
In addition to good qualities, there are also disadvantages:
- Does not allow moisture to pass through. People with very high sweating rates find it unpleasant to sleep on a bed made of synthetic materials, especially in summer.
- Poor support for a sore back or neck. Very soft pillow filling.
- It won't last long. After a couple of years it will begin to clump together.
Before purchasing, be sure to consider whether cost or durability is very important. These are good products for their own price.
Is siliconized fiber harmful to humans? No, synthetic-based materials are suitable even for allergy sufferers and asthmatics. Only people with severe sweating will find it unpleasant to sleep in such a bed. The harmfulness of many real fillers is much greater. Silicone filling in blankets is not suitable if sweat is a problem.
Siliconized fiber in pillows is not suitable for people with spinal diseases. A person in good health needs enough support from such a pillow; a person who is sick needs something denser.
Advantages and disadvantages of synthetic pillow fillings. Customer Reviews
Surely readers will be interested in the question of what consumers think about such a filler for pillows and blankets as siliconized fiber. Reviews about it are mostly positive. Among the advantages, it is worth noting its hypoallergenicity, availability and safety.
There are also disadvantages, but there are very few of them. Buyers most often do not like the fact that silicone blankets and pillows sparkle and float, but this flaw can be easily corrected if you use bedding made from natural fabrics. Also, many people criticize pillows made of siliconized fiber because they are springy (especially new ones). However, by removing a little filling from the pillow, you can easily adjust its height.
