The Right Pillow For Allergy Sufferers

by Michele Cheplic | More from this Blogger

16 Feb 2007 12:19 PM

In a previous blog I provided tips on replacing your worn bed pillows. I also listed various types of filling the majority of pillow manufacturers use. If you suffer from allergies (like me) than finding the right pillow fill material is critical to achieving a good night's sleep.

Shortly after undergoing sinus surgery I found I was even more sensitive to allergens so my mom went out and bought every kind of "alternative-fill" pillow that existed. (I felt like Goldilocks trying to find just the right one---this one is too soft... this one is too hard... you get the idea.) I finally settled on a foam rubber pillow. The first two months I slept on it I had no complaints, but as time went on I found it made my neck hurt. I still have it, but find that I tend to spend much of the night sleeping without a pillow. (Basically, I'm still looking for the "perfect" pillow.)

If you suffer from allergies you may want to consider trying the following pillows:

Buckwheat Hulls. This fill is not conducive to dust mites, which is why it is recommended for allergy sufferers. Buckwheat hull pillows are popular in other countries but are relatively new to the United States. The pillows are smaller than standard pillows, though they mold easily to form. The downside to owning a buckwheat hull filled pillow is that they are noisy. In fact, you may find them down right annoying to sleep on, especially if you are a light sleeper. Ask the salesperson about the store's return policy prior to buying one of these pillows.

Synthetic Fiber Latex. They may not be as comfortable as down, feather or synthetic pillows (I found that this is a reoccurring problem with "alternative-fill" pillows), but on the flip side they are affordable and are resistant to dust mites and mildew.

Foam Rubber. This is the pillow I settled on. It is inexpensive and considered hypoallergenic. Another bonus: it can also be sculpted for specific sleep style support. The cons of purchasing a foam rubber pillow is that it wears out quickly and will need to be replaced every year or two. Also, if you are used to the softness of down or feather pillows, you will need time to adjust to a foam rubber pillow. These pillows are extra firm and may cause neck pain. (It did for me anyway.)

Related Articles:

Picking The Right Pillow

Are You A Sheet Snob?

Winter Weather Weapons No.2-Comforters

Winter Weather Weapon No. 1---The Electric Blanket

Would You Buy Your Child A King-Size Bed?

Learn more about Michele Cheplic

Michele Cheplic was born and raised in Hilo, Hawaii, but now lives in Wisconsin. Michele graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in Journalism.

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