Children are naturally drawn to the floor. It’s where they feel free to spread out their toys, build castles, or cozy up with a book. Unlike adults, who might prefer chairs or couches, kids see the floor as their playground.

Unfortunately the floor can be hard, cold, and uncomfortable. Without the right support, long periods of sitting or lying on the floor can impact posture and overall comfort.

This is where a floor pillow makes all the difference. It provides an inviting space for kids to relax, while also giving their bodies the support they need. From game time to quiet reading moments, a floor pillow can transform their experience, offering a blend of comfort and function that is hard to beat.

Why Floor Pillows Matter: Comfort Meets Support

The right floor pillow can:

• Provide Comfort for Extended Playtime: Whether it’s an intense Lego building session or a dollhouse extravaganza, kids can stay on the floor longer without discomfort.
• Promote Better Posture: Unlike soft couches or bean bags that might encourage slouching, certain floor pillows offer firm support to help maintain proper posture.
• Encourage Relaxation: Sometimes, kids just want a cozy spot to read a book or relax. A well-designed floor pillow makes any corner of the room feel like a personal retreat.

Zafu Design Enhances Kids Floor Pillows for Better Posture

Most of the best kids floor pillows are derived from the design of the zafu meditation pillow. Just like a zafu, which elevates the hips to promote spinal alignment during meditation, a well-designed kids floor pillow can encourage proper posture by supporting the body’s natural curves. By slightly raising the hips and providing firm support, the pillow helps prevent slouching, a common issue when sitting directly on the floor. This makes it not only a comfortable lounging option but also one that promotes healthy posture during extended play or reading sessions.

Let’s take a closer look at the different types of fillings commonly used in floor pillows and why buckwheat is the superior choice:

1. Polyester Fiberfill – Polyester is a popular type of pillow filling for its affordability and softness. However, it tends to lose its shape quickly, resulting in a flattened, less supportive pillow over time. Polyester also lacks the firmness required for posture support.
2. Buckwheat Hulls – Unlike synthetic fillings, buckwheat hulls are a natural material that offers unparalleled support. They adjust to the body’s contours while staying firm enough to support proper alignment. Buckwheat hulls are also naturally breathable, preventing overheating and keeping your child cool and comfortable, even during long play sessions.
3. Kapok – Kapok is a lightweight, natural fiber that offers a soft, cushiony feel, making it popular for meditation pillows. While initially comfortable, kapok compresses over time and requires frequent fluffing to maintain its shape. It provides less support for posture compared to firmer fillings like buckwheat hulls but is eco-friendly and easy to transport

The Hullo Buckwheat Floor Pillow: Comfort and Posture in Perfect Balance

While most popular floor pillows use cheap polyester stuffing, the Hullo floor pillow is filled with buckwheat hulls—a natural, eco-friendly filling that perfectly adapts to your child’s body shape while providing firm support. Unlike poly foam that compresses over time, buckwheat hulls maintain their volume, ensuring long-lasting comfort. The hulls shift with movement, providing a customized “just for you” feel while encouraging proper alignment of the spine, neck, and hips. This can be especially beneficial for kids who spend long periods on the floor, helping them develop better posture.

Easy to Move: Hullo Floor Pillow with Handy Side Handle

Our kids floor pillow comes with a convenient handle on the side, making it easy for kids to move it around from room to room. Since we fill the pillow with buckwheat hulls, which are slightly heavier than other materials, the handle makes repositioning or storing the pillow much easier.

Hullo Is Made with in the USA with Organic Cotton for a Soft, Eco-Friendly Finish

The exterior of the Hullo floor pillow uses 100% organic cotton twill, offering a soft touch that’s gentle on sensitive skin. Parents can feel good knowing that the materials used are free from harmful chemicals and pesticides, ensuring a safe, toxin-free space for their child to rest and play. Plus, since it’s organic, the entire pillow is biodegradable, making it an eco-friendly choice that supports sustainability. It won’t contribute to landfill waste.

We proudly craft our floor pillows in the USA, ensuring top quality while actively supporting local communities and reducing carbon footprints through sustainable practices. Choosing a product made in the USA also guarantees that it meets strict safety and environmental regulations, giving parents peace of mind.

A Floor Pillow Your Kids—and the Planet—Will Love

The Hullo Buckwheat Kids Floor Pillow is more than just a comfortable cushion for playtime. It’s a versatile, eco-conscious choice that supports your child’s posture, encourages independent play, and looks great in any room. With its natural buckwheat filling and organic cotton cover, you can feel good about providing a space where your child can relax, learn, and grow—all while helping to protect the environment.

If you’re ready to upgrade your child’s comfort and invest in their well-being, look no further than our Hullo Buckwheat Floor Pillow—designed with both kids and the planet in mind. Order yours today and see the difference it makes in your home.

Some pillows can immediately lull you into a deep, restful sleep, while others keep you tossing and turning. Why? The difference sometimes comes down to pillow loft.

What Is Loft in a Pillow?

When I first stumbled into the bedding industry years ago, I had no idea what “pillow loft” even meant. I quickly realized how crucial it is to finding the perfect pillow. Loft refers to a pillow’s thickness—essentially, its height. When shopping for pillows, you’ll notice they’re often categorized by loft:

• Low Loft Pillow: These are thinner than most.
• Mid Loft Pillow: Crafted to meet the needs of most sleepers with average thickness.
• High Loft Pillow: These are more substantial than most and provide the most elevation for your head and neck.

Why Pillow Loft Matters

You might be thinking, “Does an inch or two really make that much of a difference?” And the answer is – absolutely! Your pillow’s loft affects how your head, neck, and spine align during sleep, which is key to quality sleep.

• Head and Neck Alignment: The right loft keeps your spine in a neutral position, preventing strain.
• Breathing: Loft impacts how open your airways are while you sleep, which is essential for breathing comfortably – especially for those who snore.
• Pressure Points: Correct loft reduces pressure points, helping you avoid waking up with stiffness or discomfort.

The right loft for you depends on your sleep position, body type, and personal comfort preferences. Choosing the wrong loft can lead to neck pain, headaches, or even worsen your sleep quality. There are high-quality pillows in every loft category, and the right choice really depends on your personal preferences and sleep position.

How to Choose the Right Pillow Loft for You

Now that you know why pillow loft is so important, how do you choose the right one? It’s all about aligning the loft with your sleep style and body type. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Sleep Position

• Side Sleepers: You’ll likely need a high loft pillow. Side sleeping creates more space between your mattress and your head, so a thicker pillow helps fill that gap, keeping your neck and spine in alignment.
• Back Sleepers: A medium loft pillow is usually best. It provides enough support to keep your head and neck aligned without tilting your head too far forward or backward.
• Stomach Sleepers: A low loft pillow is your go-to. A thick pillow can push your head forward at an awkward angle, leading to neck discomfort. A thinner pillow will reduce strain on your neck.

2. Body Type and Mattress Firmness

• Body Size: Your body size can influence how much loft you need. Larger individuals might require a higher loft, especially if they sleep on their sides, while smaller people might prefer a lower loft.
• Mattress Firmness: The firmness of your mattress also plays a role. On a soft mattress, your body sinks in more, so you might need a lower loft pillow. Conversely, a firm mattress requires a higher loft to fill the space between your head and the mattress.

Home Measurement Test: Check Your Pillow Loft with a Simple Photo

Wondering if your pillow’s loft is really doing its job? Here’s a quick and easy home test to find out. Have a friend snap a photo (or just use your camera’s timer) of you lying in your natural sleeping position—whether on your back, side, or stomach. The key is to capture your whole body, especially your head, neck, and spine. Ideally, your spine should be in a straight line from your neck down to your tailbone. If you notice your head tilting too far up or down, it probably means your pillow loft is too high or too low.

Filling Matters Too!

The loft of your pillow isn’t just about its initial height; it’s also about how well the pillow’s filling is able to maintain its loft throughout the night. Loft requirements can vary depending on the pillow’s filling type. Choosing the right fill is just as important as finding the right loft to ensure maximum comfort.

To keep perfectly consistent loft that lasts all night, you’ll want a malleable and firm pillow filling like buckwheat hulls or microbeads. These fillings will conform perfectly to the shape of your head and neck, eliminating all pain-causing pressure points. They’re also both quite firm; they will not compress and become thinner as you sleep. They’re not for everyone, so memory foam and latex pillows are slightly more accessible “soft” alternatives that are better than average pillows at staying a constant height.

Pillows that are worst at providing consistent loft are usually those made from down, feather, or polyester fiberfill. These materials tend to compress easily and lose their shape throughout the night, requiring frequent fluffing to maintain support.

Ultimately the type of pillow filling you use is a matter of personal preference. It’s not easy to choose without actually trying them in your own bed. If you’re not sure, I highly recommend you try a few different types. Review manufacturer’s return policies and sleep on it. If it doesn’t work out, send it back. Better rest is worth the effort (and some return shipping costs)!

The Benefits of Adjustable Loft Pillows

Adjustable loft pillows feature zippered openings that allow you to add or remove filling to fine-tune the loft to your exact preference. While they might not be as common as standard pillows, in my opinion, the zippered opening is essential for achieving that perfect balance between comfort and support. Plus, adjustable loft pillows tend to last longer, as you can simply replace the filling when it wears down and continue using the same fabric case, making them a more sustainable and cost-effective option in the long run.

Wrapping Up: Finding Your Perfect Pillow Loft

If you’re searching for a firm and adjustable option, consider a buckwheat pillow. Our own Hullo Buckwheat Pillow comes with a zippered opening, making it easy to adjust the loft by adding or removing the buckwheat hulls. This adjustability not only offers personalized comfort but also extends the pillow’s lifespan, as you can simply replace the filling over time. Buckwheat pillows provide excellent support, keeping your spine aligned and your sleep undisturbed.

Ready to find your perfect pillow loft? Sweet dreams are just a pillow away!

In the quest for a good night’s sleep, we often overlook one of the most crucial elements—our pillow. While memory foam and feather pillows dominate the market, there’s a natural alternative that’s been gaining popularity for its unique comfort and health benefits: the buckwheat pillow. But what exactly is a buckwheat pillow, and why should you consider making the switch?

Understanding Buckwheat Pillows – What’s in These Things?

The hulls, or outer shells, of buckwheat seeds fill a buckwheat pillow. Buckwheat is a plant that has been cultivated for centuries, primarily in Asia and Europe, and is known for its resilience and ability to grow in poor soil conditions. The seeds or groats are harvested for food, while the hulls are typically repurposed, making their use in pillows both resourceful and sustainable.

Adjustable Filling with Firm Support

Buckwheat pillows are known for their firm support. They offer a unique sleep experience that is both comfortable and beneficial for your health. Unlike softer pillows that can flatten over time, buckwheat pillows maintain their shape, providing consistent support throughout the night.

Buckwheat hulls have the unique ability to shift and change shape, molding perfectly to the contours of your head and neck. Their irregular, angular edges grip one another, creating stable yet flexible support. Their interlocking nature ensures the pillow maintains its shape throughout the night, providing consistent support and effectively eliminates pressure points for comfortable and restful sleep.

One of the standout features of buckwheat pillows is their adjustable filling. With zippered openings, you can add or remove buckwheat hulls to customize the pillow’s loft to your preferred height. This customization is crucial for proper support. It allows the pillow to cradle your head at the right height, providing optimal alignment.

Breathable and Cool

Buckwheat pillows are renowned for their breathability. The unique, irregular shape of individual buckwheat hulls creates ample negative space within the pillow, allowing air to flow freely. This natural ventilation prevents the build-up of heat, keeping you cool and comfortable. Unlike synthetic or dense pillow fillings that can trap heat and cause overheating, buckwheat hulls promote refreshing airflow. This makes buckwheat pillows an excellent choice for hot sleepers or anyone seeking a cooler, more breathable sleeping environment. By maintaining a balanced temperature, buckwheat pillows help ensure a deeper, more restful sleep experience.

Safe for Your Family and Mother Earth

Unlike traditional pillows filled with synthetic materials made from petrochemicals, buckwheat hulls are a safe alternative for us and our environment. Buckwheat is grown without the need for harsh pesticides or fertilizers, helping to make it a sustainable product. The hulls themselves are compostable, ensuring that once the pillow has reached the end of its life, it can return to the earth without leaving a trace. This makes buckwheat pillows an environmentally conscious choice for your bedding, reducing waste and promoting a circular economy.

Additionally, the best buckwheat pillows are encased in organic cotton covers. Organic cotton is grown without harmful chemicals and pesticides, further reducing the environmental impact. By choosing a buckwheat pillow with an organic cotton case, you’re not just investing in better sleep… You’re also supporting sustainable agricultural practices and reducing your carbon footprint.

Key Features of Buckwheat Pillows

1. Adjustable Loft: One of the standout features of a buckwheat pillow is its adjustable loft (height). High-quality buckwheat pillows come with zippered openings, allowing you to add or remove hulls to achieve your desired pillow height. This level of personalization ensures you get the precise loft you need while maintaining the inherent firmness of the pillow. Perfect support – every time.
2. Superior Support: The unique shape of buckwheat hulls allows them to contour to the shape of your head and neck, providing excellent support and alignment for your spine. This can help alleviate common sleep-related issues like neck pain, headaches, and even snoring.
3. Breathability and Temperature Regulation: Buckwheat hulls create natural airflow within the pillow, helping to keep you cool throughout the night. Unlike synthetic pillows that trap heat, buckwheat pillows promote breathability, making them ideal for hot sleepers.
4. Natural and Eco-Friendly: Buckwheat pillows are made from 100% natural materials. The hulls are a byproduct of buckwheat milling, making these pillows a sustainable choice. They’re biodegradable and often come in organic cotton covers, ensuring an entirely eco-friendly sleep solution.

The Comfort Revolution

The natural support and breathability can transform your sleep quality, leading to better overall health and well-being.

Ready to try a buckwheat pillow?

If you’re skeptical about switching to a buckwheat pillow, that’s understandable. You may notice that they feel different from traditional pillows and can take some getting used to. However, it’s worth setting aside your worries and giving them a try. Most people who are patient and allow themselves a few nights to adjust become converts within days. The unique support and comfort provided by buckwheat pillows often lead to better sleep quality and reduced pain, making the initial adjustment period well worth it. Embrace the change and you might just find your new favorite way to sleep.

A buckwheat pillow’s unique features cater to a range of sleep preferences and needs. It’s a versatile option for anyone looking to get better rest. Embrace comfortable sleep with a buckwheat pillow and experience the support and breathability that only buckwheat can provide.

Check out our buckwheat pillow, Hullo. We design our eco-friendly, high-quality pillows to give you the best sleep possible. Sweet dreams!

For those who rely on Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machines to treat sleep apnea, finding the right pillow can be a real challenge.

A pillow that complements your CPAP equipment can transform restless nights into deep sleep. Selecting the right pillow is crucial as it not only supports your head and neck but also helps position your CPAP mask correctly, reducing leaks and discomfort. This can make all the difference in ensuring that your therapy is as effective as possible, allowing you to wake up feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

Let’s explore why choosing the right pillow matters for CPAP users and highlight some pillow types that can make the journey to better rest a little smoother…

Why the Right Pillow Matters

1. Comfort and Compliance: The success of CPAP therapy heavily depends on consistent use, termed “compliance” in medical terminology. Discomfort, particularly caused by an incompatible pillow, can significantly lower compliance rates. A pillow that accommodates the mask and hose comfortably can encourage nightly use of the machine.
2. Mask Fit and Air Seal: An ill-fitting pillow can push against the CPAP mask, causing it to shift and lose the air seal necessary for effective therapy. The right pillow type provides adequate space and support without interfering with the mask’s position.
3. Support and Alignment: Proper head and neck alignment are crucial for preventing airway blockages during sleep. Pillows that offer the right support can align the spine and facilitate easier breathing.

Best Pillow Types for CPAP Users

1. Memory Foam Pillows: These pillows are popular among CPAP users for their ability to mold to the shape of the head and neck. Memory foam can provide excellent support and maintain alignment, although they tend to retain body heat and aren’t exactly “eco-friendly.”
2. CPAP-Specific Pillows: Specially designed with CPAP users in mind, these pillows often feature cutouts and special contours that help accommodate the mask and tubing. This design minimizes the pressure on the mask and helps maintain a proper seal throughout the night.
3. Buckwheat Pillows: An often overlooked but fantastic choice for CPAP users, buckwheat hull pillows offer adjustable loft (provided it has a zippered opening) and excellent support. The buckwheat hull filling allows air to circulate, which helps keep you cool and comfortable. Best of all, the malleable nature of buckwheat hulls means you can adjust the pillow to create spaces for the mask and tubing, ensuring they stay in place without added pressure.

Tips for Using CPAP with the Right Pillow

• Test Different Heights: Depending on your sleep position (side, back, or stomach), the height, or “loft” of your pillow can affect mask alignment and comfort. If your pillow is adjustable, experiment with different heights to find what best suits your setup.
• Try a Breathable Pillow: Stop flipping your pillow to the cool side! Pillows filled with breathable filling like buckwheat hulls allow stay cool all night long. Buckwheat hulls allow air to flow freely, preventing uncomfortable body heat build up.
• Be Persistent: If your current setup isn’t working well, consider making changes. Consistent use is vital for CPAP therapy effectiveness, so it’s important to stay dedicated and explore different approaches to find what best suits your needs.

Choosing the right pillow as a CPAP user can dramatically improve the quality of your sleep and the effectiveness of your treatment. By considering your sleep position and the specific requirements of your equipment, you should be able to find a pillow that helps you sleep better. Whether you opt for memory foam, buckwheat, or a specialized CPAP pillow the key is finding one that makes it feasible to consistently use your machine. Compliance is key!

Good luck finding your perfect CPAP pillow. Please share your experiences with them in the comments below!

What is Deep Pressure Stimulation?

Imagine the serene and cozy feeling of waking under a heavy down comforter on a winter morning. That sense of relaxation isn’t just from the warmth; it’s a result of the weight of the blanket. The consistent and even pressure on your body affects your nervous system, a phenomenon known as Deep Pressure Stimulation (DPS).

Deep Pressure Stimulation involves applying a firm yet gentle pressure to the body. This pressure activates the parasympathetic nervous system. This phenomena has been developed into a therapeutic tool that has been proven to foster a calmer, happier state of mind and can notably improve sleep quality.

Deep Pressure Stimulation can:

• boost “happy hormone”‘ serotonin levels,
• reduce the “stress hormone” cortisol, and
• increase melatonin,  which is involved in synchronizing circadian rhythms, including sleep

Whether through holding, hugging, squeezing, or swaddling, DPS can make individuals feel more relaxed and ready for rest, enhancing their overall sleep experience. Initially designed to help individuals with sensory processing disorders like ADHD, DPS has now found broad applications in commercial products for the general populace.

DPS in Sleep Products: Weighted Blankets and Pillows

Weighted Blankets

Weighted blankets are the most popular DPS products in the sleep industry. Designed to be 10-12% of your body weight, these blankets provide a distributed pressure across your body, offering the therapeutic benefits of DPS. Users often report feeling more secure and calm, leading to quicker sleep onset and fewer nighttime awakenings.

Weighted Pillows

Weighted pillows are filled with dense materials like buckwheat hulls, offering both comfort and versatility. Ideal for both sleep and daytime relaxation, they bring a soothing presence to any space. Like weighted blankets, they apply an even and consistent pressure that can soothe tension when held close.

Additionally, buckwheat pillows excel in their traditional role as bed pillows.

The natural firmness and adaptability of the buckwheat hull filling conforms perfectly to the shape of your head and neck, providing personalized support that lasts all night. Buckwheat pillows’ unique characteristics help in reducing common issues like neck pain and stiffness.

Eco-Friendly and Natural Options

For individuals looking for natural and eco-friendly options to enhance their sleep, buckwheat pillows are a great choice. These pillows resonate with principles of sustainable living, making them a well-rounded, environmentally conscious option for improved sleep.

Embrace Restful Nights

Incorporating Deep Pressure Stimulation into your nightly routine with products like weighted blankets and buckwheat pillows can significantly enhance your sleep quality. As we become more aware of the essential role sleep plays in our overall health, turning to these innovative, natural, and eco-friendly solutions is a smart and effective choice for improving restfulness.

Before we dive into an analysis of extra firm pillows, let’s first consider why we use pillows on our beds in the first place.

We use pillows while sleeping to fill the gap between our head and the mattress, helping our body maintain a neutral sleeping position. In this position, the neck and spine are comfortably aligned, allowing them to rest without stress. This ideal posture prevents unnecessary pressure on the discs, muscles, and nerves.

Your body is generally best supported when positioned in a straight line, parallel to your mattress, without any upward or downward bends in your spine.

Stay neutrally aligned and you’ll avoid discomfort and get better rest.

For many years I was a committed soft, fluffy down pillow user. It’s no coincidence that down is a popular pillow filling; it’s malleable, durable, and familiarly comfortable. I didn’t try much else until I was middle aged.

I’ve become somewhat of a pillow connoisseur in recent years. In an effort to find the best pillow, I’ve tried practically every imaginable type and variation.

After sleeping on a few, it became clear that my preference was for the firmer pillow types. Most other pillows’ compressible nature, their softness, proved to be a liability. They couldn’t consistently elevate my head and keep my body in that magical “neutral sleeping position.” What’s more, my head would often sink so deep into the soft filling, that the sides of the pillow would push uncomfortably against my face. It made me feel slightly claustrophobic.

Soft traditional pillows tend to flatten out under pressure.

Most soft pillows gradually lose their loft (thickness) while you sleep. They flatten under pressure and become too thin to sufficiently elevate your head and neck into a neutral position. As a result, your neck falls into an uncomfortable and potentially pain-causing downward bend.

Flipping, folding and fluffing isn’t a substitute for a consistently comfortable firm pillow that elevates your head properly!

The best extra firm pillows will:

1. provide consistent support. It should be capable of maintaining consistent loft throughout the night. That is, it will keep your head positioned appropriately relative to your mattress. Firm pillow filling reduces compressibility ensuring that your head doesn’t sink down into your mattress while you’re asleep.
2. conform to the shape of your head and neck. A firm pillow won’t be comfortable unless it’s able to distribute the weight of your head evenly across its surface. If not, it’ll result in pain-causing pressure points. A firm pillow that isn’t able to change shape to match the contour of your body will likely feel like a rock.

What are the (good) extra firm pillow options?

The firm pillows on the market today vary considerably. An extra firm down pillow will feel much different than a similarly labeled memory foam pillow. And a buckwheat or microbead pillow can feel unexpectedly firm to those accustomed to the softer pillow types. 

Finding the right type of firm pillow can be overwhelming.

So What’s best? The truth is, no single type of pillow works for everyone. Thankfully we have choices – lots and lots of choices.

Pillows are most easily categorized by what they’re filled with. A quality fabric pillow case, or shell is an important component, but its general character is dictated by the filling. Your pillow’s filling makes it feel the way it does. Each type of pillow filling has its own advantages and disadvantages and appeals to a unique audience of sleepy heads.

Below I’ve summarized the most popular extra firm pillows and their features so that you can get a sense of what might be most appropriate for you and your preferred sleeping position. I’ve arranged them from least (1) to most (6) firm.

1. Overstuffed Down and Fiberfill Pillows (Least Firm)

At the softer end of firm pillow types we have down and fiberfill. Some would argue that down or fiberfill pillows aren’t really firm. They’re certainly marketed as such. A search for “extra firm down pillow” provides a plethora of shopping options.

These popular pillows are simply packed with extra filling making them less compressible and more consistent in their loft.

Fiberfill isn’t particularly good at conforming to the shape of your head and neck. On the other hand, down is well-known for its malleable and moldable qualities. Unfortunately when it’s stuffed tightly in an extra firm pillow, a lot of that characteristic is lost.

These traditional pillow fillings both tend to retain the heat absorbed from your body while you sleep. They can quickly become uncomfortably hot, requiring you to repeatedly flip them to “the cool side” of the pillow.

For those accustomed to soft traditional pillows, down and fiberfill are the safe, conservative options that will not surprise you or take any get used to. That said, if you used the search term, “extra firm pillow” or “hard pillow” to get to this page, I doubt this is the type of pillow you’re looking for. I recommend you try something a little different. Read on…

Read More: Feather and Down Pillows: What You Don’t Know About America’s Favorites

2. Memory Foam Pillows

If you’ve ever felt memory foam, you know that it is a very unique feeling material. It has an interesting texture that conforms to pressure unlike any other pillow filling.

Memory foam’s magical squishy character is referred to as visco-elasticity.

Memory foam has both the viscous properties of water and the elastic feel of traditional poly foams. These unique characteristics are what makes memory foam pillows so popular. If you rest your head on one, the memory foam will compresses and conform perfectly to the shape of your body. When the pressure on the pillow is released, the memory foam slowly resets itself and reverts to its original rectangular shape.

This makes memory foam very good for:

• providing comfortable support for your head/neck and
• evenly distributing your body’s weight, eliminating pressure points.

Memory foam pillows unfortunately tend to absorb and retain body heat, making them uncomfortably warm. Additionally, they lose some loft when warm; they become thinner, resulting in a pillow that doesn’t elevate your head properly.

One of the biggest complaints by owners of memory foam pillows and mattresses is the unpleasant, and potentially unhealthy chemical smell. Memory foam is manufactured using polyurethane and several other chemicals, so it isn’t surprising that it emits a chemical odor. This “off gassing” of volatile organic compounds is a common and well-documented property of memory foam pillows and mattresses. The fumes are often compared to those experienced in a freshly painted room. Some of the chemicals used in memory foam aren’t entirely benign.

Note that if you search for “extra firm memory foam pillows,” you’ll find little real variety, as most are made from very similar materials.

Read More: What’s the Best Memory Foam Pillow? (They’re Not All the Same)

3. Latex Pillows

Latex pillows are firm, supportive and durable. Their filling is extracted from a Hevea-Brasilienis tree, also known as a rubber tree. Being that they aren’t made from a cocktail of strange petrochemicals, latex pillows are often marketed as being a natural and safe alternative to other pillow types like memory foam.

Unfortunately latex pillows aren’t moldable. You can’t change its shape to fit your head and neck. No matter how you push, smoosh and squeeze, it’ll bounce back into it’s original rectangular shape. This is a deal-breaker for some, myself included.

What’s more, latex, like memory foam and down, tends to absorb and retain body heat. These pillows are often perforated with small holes in an attempt to increase airflow (see photo at right).

Read More: Latex Pillow Review: Rubbery and Resilient Rest

4. Water Pillows

Provided you’ve taken the time to fill it properly, a water pillow will consistently keep your head elevated at just the right level all night long. Water isn’t compressible, but when contained in a plastic bag will adapt its shape to your head perfectly, providing consistent support all night.

Not many pillow types are adjustable. It can be very difficult to find the pillow that’s just right for you-they’re always either too thick or thin! Water pillows are adjustable: just add the appropriate amount of that magical H20 and you have the perfect loft for your pillow. This is a big advantage.

Water pillows aren’t moldable. It’s impossible to squish it into the shape you want. That pesky water always bounces back, making it a frustrating solution for many.

Some types may be wrapped in a fiberfill that’s too soft. I’ve tried a water pillow before. It was wrapped in a super soft fiberfill that pushed upward awkwardly into the side of my face.

Read More: Sailing the Sea of Sleep on a Water Pillow: Does It Work?

5. Microbead Pillows

Filled with thousands of tiny pieces of polystyrene, microbead pillows are a rather unique extra firm pillow option. While it feels quite soft when initially handled, when pressure is applied, these pillows give firm and resilient support that will not compress or collapse. Additionally, a microbead pillow is moldable and malleable. It’ll conform to the unique space between your head and mattress. The support provided is even and comfortable, effectively eliminating all pressure points.

They’re also breathable. No flipping to the cool side of the pillow!

Unfortunately they’re not all bells and whistles. While both firm and malleable, I cannot recommend microbead pillows for several reasons:

• Like memory foam, they’re manufactured with chemicals that emit a powerful odor (off-gassing). When, new out of the box, the stench is hard to ignore. The polystyrene beads they’re filled with is horrible for the environment as well.
• The filling quickly loses its elasticity and volume. With use, the polystyrene filling flattens out, resulting in inadequate loft.
• Finally, the individual microbeads don’t grip each other because of their smooth rounded edges. This causes the pillow to loose its shape, requiring frequent readjustment.

Read More: The Microbead Pillow Will Comfortably Ruin Us All

6. Buckwheat Pillows (Extra Firm)

I love these things! I stumbled upon buckwheat pillows years ago after a friend recommended them. They were so impressive that I decided to manufacture and sell them myself! Years later, after trying practically every pillow type available, I’ve yet to find a better alternative.

Advantages of Buckwheat Pillows:

• They can provide consistent support. They will not collapse in the middle of the night.
• A buckwheat pillow is moldable/malleable. It conforms perfectly to the shape of your head, neck and shoulders.
• They’re breathable. Buckwheat hulls promote air flow, allowing warm body heat to escape. This effectively keeps them cool all night.
• Most buckwheat pillows are adjustable. They include a zippered opening, making it easy to add or remove filling. Thus, they’ll work well for all sleeping positions and body types.
• They’re ecologically friendly: all-natural, compostable and recyclable.

I’ll be the first to admit that they’re not for everyone…

Disadvantages of Buckwheat Pillows:

• Buckwheat hulls make a rustling noise when shifted. Some find it distracting.
• A 20×26″ buckwheat pillow weighs around 8 pounds, which is pretty hefty for someone who likes to move their pillow around.
• They’re considered too firm for some. Being that you’re 3/4 of the way through a wordy article about extra firm pillows, I doubt that’s a genuine concern for you!

Read More: The 3 Benefits of a Buckwheat Pillow: An Honest Assessment

Experiment with the options before you commit to a pillow type.

Try different pillows and see what works for you!

There really is no substitute for literally “sleeping on it.” Squeezing a pillow inside plastic packaging at the store isn’t the best way to find your pillow. You really need to test drive them in your own bed if possible.

Check the manufacturer’s return policy and make sure that you’re able to try it for at least a week. If it’s not right for you, toss it back in the box and ship it back. You spend a third of your life with your head resting on a pillow, so a little shopping and experimentation (and even some return shipping expense) is absolutely worth better sleep.

Above all, your pillow needs to be comfortable. Trust your instincts and don’t get too caught up in marketing literature.

Price is, of course, a valid concern for the discerning shopper.

It’s easy to mistakenly substitute a quality product for the cheaper, substandard alternative. Prices are convincing drivers of behavior! Unfortunately, the cheapest option usually isn’t the most cost-effective or the most comfortable.

If you’re price-minded, remember that the initial cost of your pillow can be deceiving. It’s easy for consumers to overlook the amount of money they pour into pillows. They simply grab the cheap pillows that are available at the local department store and replace them when needed (often). The fact is that the frequency of replacement is what really determines how much you’re spending on pillows for you and your family.

Spending a little more now on a well-made product can save you in the long run if it lasts longer than cheaper alternatives.

Spending a little more now on a pillow that’s great vs. just OK is worth it. You spend a third of your life on your pillow, after all. Better sleep is priceless!

My Recommendation: try a buckwheat pillow.

I’ve been sleeping on buckwheat pillows for years and love them.

Try a Hullo buckwheat pillow for 60 nights. If you don’t care for it, just ship it back to us and we’ll refund the purchase price. We’re confident you’ll be sleeping better with a Hullo under your head. Our customer’s reviews speak for themselves:

“… I like firm pillows and a truly firm pillow is not easily found these days. This thing is amazing and I’ve been using mine for more than a year.  I haven’t had a kink, crook or pain in my neck once since using it.  In fact, I’ve told my wife, more than once, how great my neck feels.  I can turn my neck completely left or right with absolutely no pain or hesitation.  Almost feels like you do after a good massage.  That being said, my wife is using our second one.  She likes it but isn’t quite in love with it like me.  Thank you Hullo.” –Customer J. Hubbard

Water pillow? Not as silly as I expected…

Water pillows contain, you guessed it, water. Most water filled pillows are simply a plastic reservoir wrapped with poly foam or a down alternative. Water pillows are popular due to their ability provide unchanging, firm support. Soft traditional pillows containing fill like down have a tendency to collapse under the weight under your head while you sleep, resulting in an uncomfortable downward bend in your neck. Water pillows, on the other hand, are capable of maintaining the same loft (thickness) regardless of how much pressure is applied, keeping your head elevated to an appropriate level.

Water’s incompressible liquid nature offers unique benefits: it can’t be squashed down, yet it is adaptable and will conform to the shape of your head and neck.

Water pillows offer “proof” of improved sleep.

Water pillows are marketed as being “clinically shown to improve quality of sleep.” They utilize keywords like, “pillow for neck pain” to effectively advertise to those experiencing sleep discomfort. Manufacturers cite a 20 year old study conducted by Johns Hopkins University as proof that their products provide improved sleep: Cervical Pain: A Comparison of Three Pillows.

The objective of this study was “to compare three pillows with regard to pain intensity, pain relief, quality of sleep, disability, and overall satisfaction in subjects with benign cervical pain.”

The three pillows types compared were:

• a “standard pillow” — participants were asked to use their current pillow to serve as a reference (the study describes these as “usually a standard down or foam pillow.”)
• a roll pillow — roll pillows are traditionally cylindrically shaped, and approximately 6×15″
• a water-based pillow — the magical pain-reducing, sleep-improving pillow of our dreams

The subjects in the study all suffered from persistent neck pain and were asked to rate both the quality of their rest and perceived pain reduction while using each of the three pillow types.

The study concluded that different pillow types could reduce pain and improve sleep quality. And it did, in fact, show that participants preferred the water pillow to both the neck roll and standard pillows. They perceived better sleep and reduced pain intensity when using the water pillow versus the alternatives.

The study’s results are easy for water pillow manufacturers to exaggerate.

The interpretation of the study used in water pillow marketing is a bit misleading. Yes, the water pillow was superior to the other pillows used in the study, but it’s easy to assert that it didn’t have very strong competition.

To say that the water pillow was better than a foam neck roll or an ill-defined “standard pillow” isn’t really telling us very much.

Down and foam pillows do not offer consistent support.

First, consider that the reference group of  “standard pillows” filled with down or foam fill are not a good choice for those suffering from neck pain. Both tend to slowly collapse during the night, resulting in inconsistent support. If your pillow is too thin, you’ve likely got an uncomfortable downward bend in your neck. Fold it in half or use two pillows and you’re often stuck with the opposite issue: an upward bend.

It’s understandable that soft down and foam pillows were lumped together as “standard” pillows in the study.

These two pillow types dominated the pillow market at the time the study was conducted. The options have changed pretty substantially in the last 20 years; down and foam pillows are no longer the standard. Their market supremacy has been challenged by other supportive options like memory foam, latex and buckwheat hull pillows. Like water pillows, they all offer support that is superior to down and foam.

A foam neck roll pillow

The foam neck roll used in the study is an unconventional type of bed pillow that many will find peculiar.

Neck roll pillows are generally not sufficient for use alone as a bed pillow due to their lack of loft (thickness). They’re simply too thin for most. Thus, they’re often used in conjunction with another pillow to provide additional support.

Additionally, in the western hemisphere, most of us are acclimated to rectangular 20×26″ pillows. For this reason a non-traditionally shaped pillow like the neck roll will probably take some getting used to. It’s easy to imagine the participants in the study having trouble acclimating quickly to the neck roll and therefore preferring the water pillow.

My Water Pillow Experience

I bought one! Before I relate my experience, I should acknowledge that I am not currently experiencing any type of neck pain. Thus, I’m not really qualified to say if a water pillow is truly more effective than a neck roll, down or foam pillows at reducing pain. I can, however, tell you if it’s supportive and comfortable!

I’d read about water pillows before, but this was the first time I tried one for myself. I did a little research and picked what appeared to be the best one available. It had favorable reviews and seemed like a reputable brand.

When I pulled it out of the box, the water pillow didn’t seem any different than a traditional foam pillow.

It was very soft and about 4″ thick without any water in it. I turned the pillow over and discovered a small circular cap which allows it to be filled with water. The instructions showed that I should unscrew the cap and replace it with a small included funnel. The amounts of water required for soft, medium and firm were indicated but I didn’t bother measuring. Instead, I filled it straight from my kitchen sink’s faucet until it seemed appropriately full. I pushed the excess air out of the water bladder and carried it to my bedroom.

It was a bit too thin at first… As a side sleeper, I need a high loft, firm pillow.  I added a bit more water. After a few trips back and forth to my kitchen, I managed to adjust so that the loft seemed just right.

Most pillows aren’t adjustable like this. Despite a bit of extra effort, I really appreciated the ability to fine-tune the water pillow’s loft.

A water pillow is hefty.

Once filled to my preference, it weighed 10.5 lbs. Personally, I don’t its heft a disadvantage, but if you like to move your pillow around, you might consider it a shortcoming. I will admit that I was a little nervous about moving it because its seams and fabric didn’t look particularly durable.

Water pillows are supportive.

I was immediately able to feel a water-based pillows’ benefit. You sink your head into it and you don’t have to worry about it collapsing under pressure the middle of the night. Water is incompressible, so whatever loft you’ve fine-tuned is what you’ll get, consistently, night after night. Your head will be elevated just as you like it.

Water makes a unique sloshing sound.

The instructions made it clear that I needed to remove all the air from the pillow or it’d make some noise. Even with all the air squeezed out, it’ll make a bit of noise when you move around on it. Some reviewers complain about the sounds produced by a water pillow, but I didn’t find it distracting in the least. In fact, I thought the sounds were rather soothing. Maybe I built up a tolerance in 80s when I slept on a waterbed!

The fiberfill overlay was way too compressible and far too soft for a side sleeper like myself.

The fiberfill wrapped around the water bladder was far too squishy for my preference. When on my side, my head would sink deep into the soft fill until it met the resistance of the water bladder. The sides of the pillow would push uncomfortably against my face. It made me feel slightly claustrophobic. I would have preferred it wrapped in less of the fiberfill.

Even when the water bladder is filled with a minimum amount of water, I imagine it would be too thick and soft for most stomach sleepers. Accordingly, most water pillows are probably best suited for back sleepers.

A water pillow is not moldable.

I found the lack of moldability to be the water pillow’s biggest disadvantage. I couldn’t squish the pillow into the shape I desired because the water contained in the bladder always bounces back into the same rectangular shape. The fiberfill wrapped around the bladder offered a little bit of moldability, but it’s nothing like other malleable fill types like down or buckwheat.

Does a water pillow have a cooling effect?

The water pillow manufacturers don’t list cooling as a benefit, but It seemed like a possibility. I’d tested a cooling pillow insert filled with water before and thought that perhaps this water pillow might have a similar cooling effect. This turned out to not be the case. When not in use, the water contained falls to room temperature and will feel quite cold to the touch due to the physics of heat transfer. However, the fibrefill acts as insulation between the water and your skin. As a result, there is no perceptible cooling effect.

After reading the product literature more carefully, I discovered that the water bladder was covered with a thin thermal insulation. This helps to prevent heat transfer to the water. It actually felt a bit hot compared to my favorite pillow, which sat quietly on the floor waiting for the water experiment to run its course. That said, I doubt it’s any worse at staying at a comfortable temperature than most pillow types.

Water Pillow Verdict: Sink or Swim?

Water Pillow Benefits:

• Supportive — I’d say it’s a water pillow’s best attribute. Provided you’ve taken the time to fill it properly, a water pillow will consistently keeps your head elevated at just the right level all night long.
• Supposed Pain Relief — I wasn’t able to determine if my water pillow was indeed capable of reducing pain, but the many positive reviews online (and even the Johns Hopkins study) suggests a genuine benefit.
• Adjustable — Not many pillow types are adjustable. This is a big advantage. It can be very difficult to find the pillow that’s just right for you-they’re always either too thick or thin!

Water Pillow Negatives:

• Not moldable — There are no options with a water pillow-it won’t change shape. That pesky water always bounces back.
• Some types may be wrapped in a fiberfill that’s too soft — My water pillow was covered in a super soft fill that pushed upward awkwardly into the side of my face.
• Leaks (potentially) — I read several water pillow reviews online that mentioned leaks. A wet mattress and flat pillow aren’t conducive to good rest!

I was genuinely impressed with my water pillow. I’m certainly no convert, but I admit it wasn’t the gimmick that I expected it to be. I’ll be sticking with my buckwheat pillow.

As for the water pillows’ “proof” of superiority…

The results of the study show a preference for the water pillow compared to neck roll and “standard” pillows. I think it’s reasonable to assume that the participant’s preference for the water pillow was due specifically to their:

• adjustable loft. Being able to adjust your pillow so that you’re positioned in a neutral sleeping position is a big deal. Without adjustable loft, or very careful pillow purchases, you’re most likely sleeping on a pillow that is either too thick or too thin.
• consistent and comfortable neck and head support. The study states that, “…if neck pain is exacerbated during sleep by poor head and neck support, then it is not surprising that individuals frequently awaken experiencing increased morning headaches and neck pain.” Proper, consistent head and neck support makes a big difference in quality of sleep.

20 years ago, maybe the water pillow was the best solution for many. Today we have far more pillow options that can provide the same or better benefits.

What are some good alternatives to water pillows?

Many other supportive pillow types can work just as well if not better than a water pillow. Those considering a water pillow should also look into:

• buckwheat hull pillows. These unique, all natural, adjustable pillows are many chiropractors’ favorite.
• memory foam pillows. OK, I’m admittedly not super enthusiastic about these due to their potentially toxic components, but some swear buy them!
• latex pillows. Latex pillows are derived from the rubber tree and are very similar in feel to memory foam, sans toxic chemicals.
• contour pillows. Contour pillows are molded in a concave shape that’s meant to cradle and keep your head in a consistent position.

Read More: Perfect Your Sleeping Position with an Orthopedic Pillow

Make a fantastic vacation just a little more comfortable with your buckwheat pillow

Sleepers all over the world are enjoying the benefits of buckwheat hull pillows for a restful night’s sleep. Buckwheat hull filling is firm and moldable, conforming perfectly to your head and neck. Buckwheat hulls provide exceptional support that traditional pillows simply can’t match.

As buckwheat pillows have grown in popularity, many users have found themselves reluctant to leave their comfortable beds to travel. Fortunately, buckwheat travel pillows are now on the market that you can take on airplanes or squeeze into automobile trunks. These small, easily portable sleep enhancement products will make any vacation better.

Whether you already own a buckwheat pillow or you’re thinking about purchasing one, consider these benefits before booking your next trip:

Sleep Upright

Whether on an airplane or in an automobile, travel frequently requires hours of sitting in an upright position. A travel pillow made from buckwheat provides comfort no matter where you’re trying to sleep. These pillows are more versatile than a traditional one, allowing you to easily shape it to conform to a car or airplane seat.

Back Support

The neck isn’t the only area of the body that suffers during a long trip. Hours in a seated position can take a toll on your lower back, causing pain that lasts for days after you depart the car or plane. This can disrupt your vacation if you have to spend days resting after the long trip. By placing a buckwheat travel pillow in the small of your back, you can support your lower spine while you’re traveling. This will keep back pain at a minimum so you can enjoy every minute of your trip.

Adjustable

When it comes to pillows, each person has their own preferences. You may like a thick, lofty pillow while your spouse prefers one that only offers slight elevation. The best buckwheat travel pillows come with a zippered case that allows for easy removal and replacement of the hulls inside. Because the buckwheat hulls can be added or removed, you can customize the pillow to your own personal preferences.

Fresh and Clean

Comfort aside, many people take their own pillows and bedding along with them for hygiene purposes. While most hotels wash pillowcases, sheets, and blankets between guests, the pillows themselves are left untouched. For those who are particular, a personal pillow is a great solution. Buckwheat travel pillows guarantee a clean pillow no matter where the person is sleeping.

Washable

One of the many things that makes a buckwheat pillow better for traveling is its washability. The hulls can be removed at any time and set in the sun to refresh, while the pillowcase can be unzipped and removed for washing. This is especially important when traveling, since a pillow will often be exposed to debris and dust in airports, hotel rooms, and even while in transit from one location to another. Learn more about how to clean buckwheat pillows.

Breathability

Buckwheat pillows are well known for their ability to keep a person’s neck and head cool. The buckwheat hull fill allows better air circulation than other pillow types, keeping them cooler, whether you’re sleeping in a bed or on the beach. Where traditional pillow fill types, like down or polyester, trap a person’s body heat, buckwheat hull pillows stay cool.

They’re ideal for visiting warm, tropical locations. You can take a buckwheat travel pillow to the pool or the beach for comfortable lounging throughout the day. The pillow supports your neck better than a lounge chair or a towel on the sand, keeping you comfortable as you’re basking in the sun.

For even better results, make sure your pillow has a case made from 100 percent cotton. Our own Hullo™ travel pillows are made with organic cotton to provide a cooler resting experience.

Versatility

Buckwheat travel pillows shouldn’t be reserved for use during travel. Their small size makes them perfect for use by the young people in your life. Some of the buckwheat hull fill can be removed to meet their own preferences. Buckwheat travel pillow owners have also found they’re the ideal size for use while reading or watching TV. You can keep a travel pillow near your sofa in the living room to grab when you need extra support while lounging. Since your standard-sized buckwheat pillows will be on your bed, you won’t have to move it to the living room when you need to get comfortable.

Whether you own a buckwheat pillow or you want to try one out, a travel pillow is a great addition to your collection. You’ll be able to experience comfort, no matter where you’re resting. Because these pillows are so easy to clean, you can wash them when you arrive home, removing all dirt that accumulated while on the road.

Hullo™ small buckwheat pillows, at 14×20 inches, are the perfect size to take along on the next business trip or then your family vacation in paradise. Also consider our buckwheat bolster pillow, a versatile travel companion that will keep you comfortable wherever you find yourself.

Enjoy that sleep while you can get it, lady. Your neck is going to be really sore after sleeping on that mountain of a pillow.

Finding the best side sleeper pillow can be an overwhelming experience. There are hundreds of different types of pillows to choose from and separating the good from the gimmicks isn’t easy. The wrong pillows can potentially cause or worsen headaches, neck and shoulder pain, arm numbness, general discomfort and even sneezing.

Your precious rest is at stake, so choose wisely!

First, consider your sleeping position.

The reason we sleep on pillows is because they help to keep our head elevated in neutral alignment while we sleep. Ideally your head should be perpendicular to your shoulders and your neck should not be bent too far in any direction. For side sleepers, the pillow fills the gap between your ear and the bed, keeping your body consistently and comfortably aligned.

Sleeping with a pillow that is too soft or thin will cause your head to lay too low, creating a downward bend in your neck. Conversely, using a pillow that’s too thick will create an upward bend. Neither is comfortable or conducive to restful sleep. These circumstances can cause excessive stress on your neck and shoulders which can potentially cause pain.

If your pillow doesn’t keep your head at the correct level, it is likely you will experience back and neck pain.

What’s the best side sleeper pillow?

Side sleepers generally require a firmer, fuller pillow than back or stomach sleepers. This is simply because there is considerably more space to fill between your head and the bed while on your side. Soft or thin pillow types do not provide adequate support for most side sleepers because their head is inevitably positioned too low.

The ideal side sleeper pillow:

1. provides enough loft (height) to keep your spine straight, but isn’t so thick that it bends your neck upwards out of alignment.
2. remains supportive throughout the night. The fill does not collapse under the weight of your head, creating an uncomfortable downward bend in your neck. Firm pillow filling types are best at providing consistent support that doesn’t flatten out while you sleep.
3. is comfortable. Ultimately, it’s best to trust your instincts. If a particular pillow works well for you, stick with it.

Go pillow shopping.

You’ll quickly discover that there are hundreds of different pillows designed specifically for side-sleepers. Of these, many come with a predetermined shape, meant to conform to the shape under your neck. Before you spend your hard-earned money on these, keep in mind that most people change position frequently during sleep. While you might prefer to be on your side, it’s quite likely that you move to your back and stomach many times throughout the night. These pillows are designed to work best while you’re lying perfectly perpendicular to your mattress. They only work well for those that hold a relatively static sleeping position during the night.

For most, a malleable side sleeper pillow with down, shredded latex, or buckwheat hull fill will be preferable.  These pillow types will allow you to mold your pillow into a shape that’s comfortable and provide firm and persistent support.

Two tips that’ll make your side sleeper pillow choice simpler:

1. Sleep on it. It’s impossible to test pillows online or even in a store. The best manufacturers will allow you to try their pillows in your home with a money-back guarantee. Sleep with the pillow in your own bed to determine if it’s right for you.
2. Look for an adjustable pillow. Unfortunately you can’t adjust most pillows on the market. Some pillows allow fill to be added or removed through a zipper opening. This allows you to alter the both firmness and loft of your pillow to your personal preferences.

Sleep on it!

It’s very easy to end up with a pillow that’s either too thick or too thin. There really is no substitute for literally “sleeping on it.” Squeezing a pillow inside plastic packaging at the store isn’t the way to find your ideal pillow. You really need to test drive them in your own bed if possible. Check the manufacturer’s return policy and make sure that you’re able to try it for at least a week. If it’s not right for you, toss it back in the box and return it. You spend a third of your life with your head resting on a pillow, so a little shopping and experimentation is absolutely worth it.

The best side sleeper pillows will provide support for both your head and neck. Above all, it’ll simply be comfortable. If you’re careful and deliberate with your purchase, you’ll get the most restful sleep possible. Trust me, it’s worth it!

As I side sleeper, I prefer our own Hullo buckwheat hull pillows, but don’t take my word for it, check out this review (and many others):

“I am a side sleeper and before getting a buckwheat pillow, I always used two pillows and/or folded my pillows in an attempt to support my head properly. I can quickly shape Hullo with my hands and find a comfortable sleeping position. Before the buckwheat pillow I would wake up with a numb arm, or sometimes a sore neck. This doesn’t happen with Hullo.

Now I take my Hullo wherever I go, because soft foam and feather pillows aren’t as comfortable. I highly recommend trying this pillow.” – Hullo customer, Nicholas

The dimensions of a “standard” pillow are 20″x26″

There are three popular buckwheat pillow sizes: small, standard and the king

Small Size 14×20″ Buckwheat Pillow

Years ago, I ordered my first buckwheat pillow. I assumed I was getting a standard-sized 20×26″ pillow, but I had unintentionally ordered one half that size. It was comfortable and I fell in love with it, but still felt a bit too small for my larger stature. I’m pretty tall (6’2″) and a side-sleeper; I suspected a larger pillow would provide better support for me.

For someone with a smaller stature, however, a small buckwheat pillow can provide more than adequate support. A smaller pillow has an advantage in that it’s considerably less bulky than a larger one. A 14×20″ buckwheat pillow weighs half what a 20×26″ pillow does and is pretty easy to shift around while in your bed. My kids both use small buckwheat pillows and prefer them to the larger size simply because of the weight advantage.

Worth noting: I’m willing so sacrifice the bedroom’s aesthetics for comfort any day, but my wife wasn’t particularly thrilled with the idea of this new odd-sized pillow that didn’t fit our bedding set. You can certainly find plenty of 14×20″ pillow cases in flat colors at large retailers like Amazon, but you aren’t going to get the latest designer patterns.

Hullo™ Is Available in Small (14×20″), Standard (20×26″), and King (20×36″) Sizes

Standard Size 20×26″ Buckwheat Pillow

After many years of industrial production, the most popular or “standard” pillow dimension emerged: 20×26″. Most North American consumers, myself included, prefer a standard-size pillow. A good deal of that preference, I’m sure, is due to acclimation. We grew up with these things; what’s familiar is comfortable.

Soon after getting my small buckwheat pillow, I decided I’d be better off with a larger one and made my own standard-sized pillow, which ultimately became the first Hullo prototype. While considerably more bulky, (around 8.5 lb.), I found it to be even more comfortable than the small one. It contained considerably more volume which allowed for better support over a greater surface area. Of course, it also fit inside my wife’s beautiful new pillowcases and looked great on our bed.

We definitely see a preference for the standard size in our Hullo customers. The sales numbers tell us that the standard size works best for most.

King Size 20×36″ Buckwheat Pillow

A king size buckwheat pillow is substantial—it’s a full 10″ wider than a standard pillow. Not only are they large, they’re heavy—a full pillow weighs around 14 lb. They’re not easy to toss around (forget about pillow fights), but the fact that it’s so long makes moving it less necessary. You can roll over and keep on rolling. Like a standard size buckwheat pillow, they’re capable of providing plenty of support for taller sleepers. They of course fill up the space on a king size bed and fit those awesome new shams your mother in law just got you for Christmas!

So What’s the Best Choice?

If the pillow is for a child or someone on the petite side, I’d definitely recommend a small. Those who want to fill up their gigantic sleigh beds should get a king. For most, a standard size buckwheat pillow is best. It’s what I use and I sleep pretty well at night.

Hullo™ is available in three sizes and starts at $59 with free shipping.