Synthetic Pillow Fillings

There are two main sorts of synthetic pillows. First there are those that attempt to mimic - and improve on - natrual fillings. So where a pillow might normally be filled with down it is instead filled with man-made fibres. The other common sort of synthetic pillow is one which incorporates a "spring" mechanism similar in concept to those found in some mattresses - usually individual springs warapped in pockets. There are a wide variety of pillows available on the market containing almost every possible combination of springs, natural and man-made fibres.

The main advantages given for synthetic fillings are:

Price The cost of synthetic pillow fillings is often less than that of their natural counterparts. Allergy Many people are allergic to certain natural pillow fillings. Synthetic fibres are sometimes hypoallergenic and can be more suitable for allergy sufferers. Maintenance Natural fillings often require careful washing and handling whereas synthetic fillings are usually easier to maintain. Durability A natural pillow filling such as down is wonderful when new but they do sometimes sag or clump with age. An up-market synthetic filling could last longer, however this is entirely dependant on the quality - which in turn is usually connected with the price.

The latest innovation in synthetic pillow filling is memory foam. This makes no attempt to imitate either natural down or mattress springs. Instead it is simply a solid lump of foam. It doesn't look like much but many people (including me!) find it extremely comfortable and supportive.