Now in our country much attention is paid to the design of the interior decoration of apartments, cottages and private houses. A selection of finishing materials, furniture, textiles and room decor elements is carried out. But we don’t pay much attention to the choice of bedding. With the development of medicine, as well as the manufacturing industry, various types of sleeping linen, including pillows, are currently being produced. Our health and well-being depend on the correct choice of the latter. Healthy sleep can cure any blues, and it is impossible without comfortable bedding. Therefore, it is worth taking a closer look at choosing a pillow.
A good night's sleep requires quiet, fresh air and comfortable bedding.
What does the pillow consist of?
There are a large number of different options and materials available. This creates some inconvenience for those people who do not have sufficient experience. As a rule, manufacturing materials are divided into synthetic and natural. The best solution would be the last option. They are distinguished by durability, reliability, strength, and high performance. At the same time, the cost of such goods is much higher.
Modern manufacturers offer a wide range, starting from artificial materials and ending with natural animal and plant fillers.
Various materials can be used as pillow filling:
- Buckwheat. Buckwheat husk is used for medicinal purposes. This product has high quality and durability. Buckwheat retains its shape for a long time, promotes optimal positioning of the head during sleep, increases blood flow, and improves brain activity. It should be noted that it is difficult to care for - there are difficulties with washing. Also, when turning, there is an unpleasant sound that can wake you up. Buckwheat ensures good air circulation and water evaporation. Such material is hygienic; no mites or other microorganisms will multiply inside. As a rule, such products are made small.
- Bamboo. In recent years, it has become a more popular solution for manufacturing products. They are environmentally friendly, do not cause allergies, and have high performance properties compared to many analogues. The surface is very soft, so it provides quality rest. The service life of the product is more than seven years, which is a definite advantage. Care should be taken when cleaning. It is also important to buy small models - they have greater plasticity and flexibility.
- Latex. The best option for those looking for a high-quality orthopedic pillow. Features a long service life. Can maintain its original shape for eight years without deformation. Latex has high performance qualities and is a very convenient and practical material for the manufacture of high-quality and durable products. However, they are quite expensive, which should be taken into account when choosing.
Pillow fillings are an important criterion that determines their quality and functionality.
Various grasses, cotton, etc. can be used as materials for padding. They are usually of high quality. In this case, the service life is no more than two years.
Note! Pillows are often made with seaweed. They contain many useful microelements that have a beneficial effect on human health, increase immunity, and accelerate recovery processes during sleep.
Herbal products are also popular. However, they are still used quite rarely, as they quickly lose their performance qualities. Among the key advantages, the pleasant aroma of herbs should be noted.
For stuffing, plants are used that promote a restful and pleasant sleep.
The most common pillows today are still those stuffed with animal origin. Plant variations are replacing them. This is due to the fact that feathers can cause an allergic reaction in humans. Other disadvantages include the accumulation of dust, microorganisms and mites in feathers.
Synthetic products are not suitable for everyone. Orthopedic variations are often made from synthetic and gel fillers. They have high performance properties, provide high quality sleep, and allow you to relax after a hard day at work.
The best pillow fillings will ensure a comfortable night's rest and a fresh head in the morning.
Material of manufacture
As mentioned earlier in the article, manufacturing materials can be natural or synthetic. For a more convenient perception of information, the characteristics of each of them are given below.
Natural
This group includes fillers of plant and animal origin. The following are used as packing:
- down and feather;
- wool;
- horsehair;
- buckwheat husk;
- bamboo;
- cotton;
- silk;
- herbs;
- seaweed;
- latex.
Buckwheat
Buckwheat husk, which has a massage effect, is most often placed in small pillows
Buckwheat husk is used for medicinal purposes. This product will retain its shape for a long time. The massage effect has a beneficial effect on blood circulation in the head and brain. The disadvantages of this material are the inability to wash, as well as the noise that occurs when turning over on its side while sleeping. But the advantages clearly outweigh the disadvantages. Buckwheat filling does not accumulate dust deposits, absorbs moisture well, and has a pleasant aroma. The contents are breathable. This is very important, as excess moisture that has accumulated in it is partially removed while you are away. Buckwheat is hypoallergenic and hygienic. The well-known bed tick will not be able to settle in such a filling. The service life is about two years.
The sizes of linen with buckwheat are most often made small. This is necessary in order to add as little husk as possible, while maintaining the required density. The husk has considerable weight, so the dimensions here are: 40x40, 40x50.
Bamboo
Bamboo fiber is a hygroscopic, wear-resistant material with an antibacterial effect, used as a filler for pillows of all sizes.
Bamboo fiber is gaining popularity among modern manufacturers, as well as buyers. This is not surprising, because made using special technologies that eliminate the use of chemicals and additives, the pillow is environmentally friendly. The undoubted advantages are:
- absorbent properties;
- air throughput;
- soft surface and plasticity;
- antibacterial properties;
- absence of allergens in fibers;
- long service life (up to 7 years);
- Possibility of delicate washing in a machine or by hand;
- ability to retain heat and cool.
The bamboo filling must be whisked frequently to prevent clumping. Due to the fact that bamboo fiber is light, the dimensions are selected relatively small. 40x40 or 50x50 is quite enough. This way it will be possible to maintain the required elasticity.
Latex
Latex is most often found in orthopedic pillows, which are rectangular in shape and small in size and provide the most comfortable position for the head and neck of a sleeping person.
This filler has ideal orthopedic properties. It is able to maintain elastic shape for up to 8 years. Very often you can hear people say that latex is synthetic. This is a completely false statement. Latex is obtained from the sap of a plant, which subsequently undergoes a special heat treatment, foams and is poured into a specific form. Extraordinary lightness and elasticity are especially valuable characteristics of latex.
Caring for the product does not require much effort. It can be washed in an automatic washing machine. Latex does not absorb foreign odors or moisture. An obvious disadvantage is the high price.
Other materials
Seaweed, cotton and grass are used as bedding quite less often than latex or bamboo. This is due to the short service life (1-2 years). The main characteristics here are the same as those of other natural materials:
- low allergenicity;
- breathability;
- environmental friendliness;
- affordable price.
Seaweed also has a high content of minerals, such as iodine, zinc, manganese and others. This has a beneficial effect on the health of the human body as a whole.
Seaweed pillows have a healing effect on the scalp of a sleeping person and do not attract dirt and dust.
Products made from plant herbs are used less frequently, and mainly as an additional element of a sleeping area. The pleasant aroma calms the nerves and promotes sound sleep.
Silk products are popular due to their unique structure. Pleasant, thin threads that form the basis of this material can cool your head on hot summer nights, as well as warm you up on long winter evenings. The service life is from 10 to 15 years. The only downside is the need for dry cleaning, as well as the price.
An amazing property of silk is its ability to adapt to the temperature of the human body.
Animal fillers
The well-known down and feather padding 70x70 used to be considered the best option. Undoubtedly, such products have advantages. High air permeability, softness, heat retention - these are the characteristics of down and feathers. But there are also a number of disadvantages:
- excessive softness;
- the possibility of bed mite reproduction;
- difficulty in care;
- strong adhesion to foreign odors;
- Possibility of pen falling out.
Classic down-feather pillow filling
Modern manufacturers have begun to treat the feather base of the bib to protect against ticks. But now people tend to purchase modern products such as bamboo and latex, so the down and feather base fades into the background.
You can often find pillows stuffed with sheep's wool on the counters. They are very useful (indicated) for people who have problems with the cervical spine. For osteochondrosis and rheumatism, doctors specifically prescribe such a foundation. The disadvantages include a high degree of allergenicity, the inability to wash, the proliferation of moths and mites, as well as a number of medical contraindications.
Pillows filled with wool have a specific smell and require special care.
Synthetic base
Synthetics are becoming increasingly popular. This type of material is characterized by the absence of allergic reactions, a high degree of orthopedic properties, and the possibility of washing. The most common materials are:
- Holofiber.
- Comforel.
- Gel.
- Sintepon.
- Expanded polystyrene.
- Foam material.
Products made from holofiber are recommended for newborns. This foundation meets all international quality standards. Ease of care, durability, lightness, hygiene are the main characteristics of this filler.
Hollow fiber balls are a modern and popular filler, widely used in the textile and furniture industries.
Holofiber and comforter also have sufficient elasticity, which is especially important for small children. Service life – 5 years.
Comforel is a modern, new generation synthetic filler used to fill bedding.
Sintepon is the predecessor of comfortel. The disadvantage here is the low degree of elasticity, and as a result, a shorter service life (up to two years).
Synthetic filling - comfortable, lightweight and does not cause allergies
Expanded polystyrene is ideal as pillow filling for pregnant women. This design can also be found in products labeled “anti-stress”.
Pillows with polystyrene balls are filled approximately 90%, thanks to this you can adjust it to suit yourself - by moving the balls inside the pillow, you can adjust the height
The helium base of the headboard is an innovation. Such fillers are especially good in the hot summer (they have a cooling effect). Massage functions of the neck vertebrae are also performed here. The disadvantage of this option is the high price.
Gel pillows are a combination of the most innovative developments in the field of healthy and comfortable sleep
Foamed polyurethane foam is used for orthopedic purposes. It is distinguished by a good degree of support for the spine, as well as the ability to remember the anatomical curves of the body. Since this substance does not absorb moisture and odors, it does not need to be washed. Simply wash with warm water.
An orthopedic memory foam pillow is made of synthetic foam that responds to weight and heat
Types of pillows
There are many different types of pillows. They differ in the shape of the headboard and other parameters. There are many different classifications, which creates some difficulties when choosing the right product.
Currently, pillows can be divided into decorative products, sleep models and special orthopedic products.
Before you start purchasing, you should pay attention to the following types of products:
- Bed. This is a classic option that is used for sleeping. There are many different variations that differ in shape, size, and padding. When choosing, you should take into account individual requirements, as well as the tolerance of certain materials. It is important that they do not cause an allergic reaction, ensure high quality sleep, and contribute to a good and pleasant rest.
- Orthopedic. Has unique properties. Such a product is usually made of synthetic materials. They take the shape of the human body well and create optimal conditions for quality rest. Generally, products are recommended for people with poor sleep.
- Children's room. Manufactured in small sizes. As a rule, high-quality materials are used in production that do not cause an allergic reaction.
- For pregnant. Designed to support and ensure comfortable sleep for pregnant women. They have orthopedic properties and do not contain synthetic fibers or allergenic substances.
- Sedentary. Designed to support your back when sitting. There are also separate designs for neck comfort. They provide optimal body position, which reduces the load on the vertebrae. As a result, the quality of rest improves.
- Pokhodnaya. As a rule, such products are made from materials that have high strength and rigidity. This provides comfortable conditions for relaxation while traveling.
- Decorative. They can be made from different materials. The main feature is a wide selection of different designs and shades.
Currently, manufacturers produce pillows in a variety of sizes.
There are different classifications of products on the market today, so there may be some difficulties in choosing. For example, they differ in shape, size, type of padding, purpose and other parameters. When choosing, you should pay special attention to each of them in order to choose a truly high-quality and durable model for sleeping.
What nuances are important to consider when choosing sofa cushions?
Having discussed the most important parameters for choosing textile accessories, such as shape, size, color, we cannot miss the secondary elements that make the room look not only stylish, but cozy. We will talk about the decor of the pillows themselves.
There are several types of textile decorations:
- ornaments on fabric (monochrome color is diluted with patterns of a different shade);
- geometry (any combination of straight lines touching each other and contrasting with the main color);
- prints (also contrasting, can be large or small, reflect any theme, create visual effects);
- 3D printing (often a black image is used on a given background, but color printing can also be used. The advantage of decor is in individualizing the product);
- ruffles (aimed at creating a certain mood in the room, can overlap with curtains or sofa trim);
- fringe (pillows with such decoration look original, but at the same time cozy, which means they create an atmosphere of ease and freedom in the room);
- lace (like ruffles, are designed to create a romantic, feminine space and emphasize the elegance of the setting).
What decorative elements to choose to fit into the interior? Designers offer several universal tips that will help refresh your living room without looking tacky.
- Use ornamented thoughts on plain surfaces. This combination will add dynamism to the room, diversify the monochrome colors, and allow you to further experiment with the decor of the living room (for example, use a carpet with the same pattern, or a chandelier in a similar style).
- Diversify your minimalist interior with 3D printed pillows. They look laconic, but at the same time fresh. They will become the highlight of a modest interior.
- Combine different pieces of furniture with a set of pillows made in the same style. 2-3 bright colors can be used, which will be repeated on different textures and shapes of textiles.
- A bright room with painted walls can be decorated with a set of bright rollers of different colors. At the same time, use different textures: fur, silk, matting.
- It’s easy to make a living room in warm colors original by throwing pillows with colored fringe and embroidery on the sofa. And you don’t have to spend money on a new product. You can modernize old thoughts with your own hands. For example, sew a new cover with embroidery, or make fringe from floss.
Standard pillow sizes
There are various sizes of products. Because of this, it becomes difficult to choose the right option for a comfortable sleep. Below is a table of standard sizes of sleeping pillows.
Length, cm | 40 | 40 | 50 | 50 | 60 | 70 |
Width, cm | 40 | 60 | 50 | 70 | 60 | 70 |
Most often there are products with a width and length of seventy centimeters. These are the most common products in bedding sets. Other options are less common. When choosing, you should take this feature into account.
There are both regular standard options and products with very specific sizes.
Possible consequences of a wrong choice
When choosing, experts advise focusing on sizes, choosing among standard or non-standard options. It is important to understand that in the case of an incorrectly selected product, the consequences may be as follows:
- Huge pillows, as well as too low ones, force the neck to bend in an unnatural position. As a result, the muscles become overstrained and the neck may become sore.
- Along with this, due to the uneven distribution of the load, the blood supply to the head deteriorates - the next morning the head hurts, a feeling of heaviness appears.
- If you use a sleeping pillow that is too long, it will be uncomfortable for your shoulders and back - they will not be able to relax and rest.
Thus, the selection of pillows should be approached responsibly. Otherwise, sleep will not be comfortable, your neck will become stiff and your head will hurt. Sleep disorders will lead to negative consequences for the body.
Difference in different countries
The standard parameters differ in different countries, which causes some confusion among users. As a rule, the length of the product is in the range from 40 to 80 centimeters, and the width is from 30 to 70. Most manufacturers try to adhere to standards, but on the modern market you can find a variety of designs. This is especially true for devices for children or pregnant women.
Pillows can have different lengths and heights, depending on their purpose.
Note! Imported standards are usually made in elongated shape. They look like a rectangle. You can often find configurations designed for paired sleep.
Many modern bed linen manufacturers indicate European parameters. This is a standardized designation that allows you to significantly simplify the task when choosing a suitable solution.
Decorative pillows can come in a variety of sizes. They are designed to decorate the interior of the room.
Dimensions of orthopedic models
There are many features to consider when purchasing orthopedic products. You should buy a pillow only according to individual parameters. Otherwise, you will not be able to get the desired effect - on the contrary, it is fraught with injury. It is recommended that you consult with a professional physician before purchasing. Only he will help you choose the right device based on individual characteristics.
Orthopedic accessories are produced according to the individual characteristics of the person for whom they are intended.
Size and quantity
The size and number of pillows are selected based on the dimensions of the upholstered furniture: for a small couch 1-2 small ones will be enough, for a large corner sofa their number can reach 5-6, and the size can be more substantial.
Also, do not clutter the sofa with a large number of accessories, especially with an active pattern, if there are other expressive accent details in the room - wall panels, original-shaped furniture, etc.
What does pillow size affect?
Pillowcase sizes and height affect the quality of your sleep. These are some of the main parameters that provide optimal location and give a feeling of relaxation. It is recommended to purchase products of optimal height.
Square and rectangular shapes are traditional options and are considered the most suitable for sleeping.
Note! A structure that is too high or low causes irreversible changes. The shape of the vertebrae changes, which has a bad effect on posture, blood circulation and oxygen supply to the brain during sleep.
Standard pillowcase size
The dimensions of standard pillowcases for pillows are set according to GOST. As a rule, bed linen manufacturers try to adhere to these values. Typically, product parameters vary from 40 to 80 centimeters. Square solutions predominate in the domestic market. European rectangular ones are less common, so the sizes of pillowcases may vary. There are double sets that are very popular among married couples.
Manufacturers indicate the dimensions in the kits, so it is enough to select a suitable device that meets the criteria. There are many options to choose from.
Bed linen sizes
All bedding sets, with the exception of those sewn to individual orders, can be classified into one of 5 standard types.
Table
Set size | Duvet cover | Sheet | Pillowcases |
One-and-a-half (one-and-a-half-sleeping) | from 143x210 cm to 160x230 cm | from 145x200 cm | 50x70 cm 70x70 cm |
Double (Russian standard) | from 175x210 cm to 180x220 cm | from 175x210 cm | 50x70 cm 70x70 cm |
Double (Euro standard) | from 200x220 cm to 215x220 cm | from 200x215 cm | 50x70 cm 70x70 cm |
King size (Euro Maxi) | from 220x240 cm to 240x260 cm | from 220x240 cm | 50x70 cm 70x70 cm |
Family (two duvet covers) | from 143x210 cm to 160x230 cm | from 175x210 cm to 260x270 cm | 50x70 cm 70x70 cm |
Shape and height of the pillow
The most common models are square or rectangular. Such products are suitable for almost everyone, as they have an optimal shape. Orthopedic ones may differ in shape, as they are selected depending on the individual requirements of the buyer. It is advisable to consult a specialist before purchasing.
Basically, the products have a hard filler, which allows them to keep their shape unchanged under frequent loads.
You can often find products in the form of rolls, circles or with holes for the hand. It is recommended to choose them strictly depending on your features and body type. Otherwise, it is difficult to ensure high quality sleep.
The standard height is no more than sixteen centimeters. Models for men and women may differ. As a rule, the optimal height for women is up to ten centimeters. For children, you should select products with a height of less than nine centimeters. It all depends on the age of the child.
A pillow that is beneficial for sleep and health should support the head without straining the neck, that is, not too high and not too low.
How to choose the right pillow
When choosing, it is recommended to take into account many nuances. It is necessary to pay attention to the purpose of the product. It is also important to consider individual preferences. Design is important.
For sleep
When choosing a sleep device, you should take into account your individual characteristics and body structure. There are many products from different manufacturers on the modern market, which creates some difficulties when choosing.
To choose the optimal model, it is recommended to take into account your resting position. For back sleepers, it is recommended to select products with increased rigidity. For sleeping on your stomach or side, you should choose softer options.
A square or rectangular pillow is time-tested and suitable for the vast majority of people.
There is also no need to choose a pillow whose width exceeds the size of the mattress. When choosing, you should try the product to understand how convenient it is. The advantage of the orthopedic model is that it takes and remembers the shape of the human body.
Decorative
When choosing a decorative product, you should also take into account some nuances. It is recommended to choose synthetic models that do not cause an allergic reaction and do not contribute to the development of microorganisms, mites and others.
In addition to their functional use, soft pillows are used as decorative decorations for the interior of a room.
Such a device should fit perfectly into the overall style of the room. You can select options that perfectly match the color scheme. Contrasting models look interesting. They add some zest. A pillowcase for such variations can be made from various materials. Various decoration and styling options are possible.
sofa
When choosing, you need to start from the one who will rest on such a surface. It is also important to consider color. It should fit well with the overall design. It is best to choose a set that matches the color.
Colored finishing allows you to organically fit bed textiles into the design of the living room.
Road
When choosing products on the road, you should take into account individual characteristics. It is best to buy orthopedic models. They optimally fit the shape of the head without causing discomfort. There are many different models for everyone on the market today.
To feel comfortable on the road, you need to choose a travel pillow in advance.
Decorative accessories: detailed characteristics
There are about 7 such bright, colorful elements:
- Euro version (60 x 60 cm);
- Standard copy (50 x 50 cm);
- Deco (40 x 40 cm);
- Classic version (45 x 45 cm);
- Enlarged Deco (55 x 55 cm);
- Rectangular accessory (size varies);
- Boudoir (30 x 40 cm).
Eurovariant
Usually made in a square shape. It will decorate the bed if you place a decorative element behind the main (bed) accessories. It will add charm, color variety, and support lovers of bed reading.
Standard model
The presented specimen is considered the size of a standard type pillow. A cute way to add texture to a sleeping area, bed, chair. Also used for legs and neck.
Deco
Popular gift idea (series of 3 square accessories). Accent copy. Allow your imagination and ideas to take over your mind when choosing colors, patterns, textures.
Rectangular product
Decorate a wide colored area (chair, sofa, lounger, bench), adding color. Place the presented option on the windowsill or reading place to get your own cozy corner.
Boudoir
A popular, versatile choice is the boudoir accessory. Used to dilute the monochromatic color scheme of a bedroom, office, even the entrance of private apartments.
Outdoor accessories are considered separately. Consider the type and shape of the furniture, because accessories vary greatly among different manufacturers. It is recommended to choose synthetic fillers (polyurethane foam, polyester fibers) to avoid rapid wear. Solid shades collect rain stains, colorful models fade faster in direct sunlight. Take these details into account.
Let's summarize. Filling and decorating a room will not be complete without small details. The size of the chosen sleeping pillows depends on the taste preferences of each family member and the characteristics of the body. Decorative items also differ in shape and content.
What size decorative pillow should I choose? Analyze the required functionality and how to use accessories to find the best option. Browse catalogs of online stores, look for advice from interior designers. Enjoy the shopping!
How to properly care for your pillow
To make your pillow last longer, you need to take proper care of it. Depending on the materials of manufacture and filler, care rules vary significantly.
Today, the range of manufactured products is very wide, and you can choose a pillow to suit any requirements.
It is recommended to wash synthetic models periodically. To prevent the material from bunching up, it is important to periodically check the shape. It is recommended to dry naturally to avoid damage to the filler. It is enough to handle products made from natural materials with special vacuum cleaners. After this, it is enough to give the pillow its original shape. If all requirements are met, the product will last for many years.
Material and appearance
The material of covers for sofa cushions is chosen based on the texture of the furniture upholstery and the design style of the room as a whole.
⦁ For furniture upholstered in velvet or velor, soft, fleecy fabrics identical to the upholstery, as well as fluffy wool and fur, are suitable.
⦁ If the surface of the sofa is smooth: made of chenille, cotton, tapestry - you can use cotton, linen, jacquard for covers.