Bamboo pillows are great for many reasons. They promise to be cooler and more breathable than traditional pillows, and they’re made from a sustainable material to boot.
However, they may not be a perfect fit for everyone. That’s why I put together this guide to answer some of the most common questions about bamboo pillows.
What is Considered a Bamboo Pillow?
Bamboo pillows are a type of pillow that has an external shell or pillowcase made from bamboo fabric. The filling can be anything from solid memory foam, shredded memory foam, polyester, or feathers.
Before you replace your old pillow with one made from bamboo, here are nine things you should know.
What You Need to Know Before Buying a Bamboo Pillow
Here is a list of nine things to help you determine if a bamboo pillow is right for you:
- Are bamboo pillows good for neck pain?
- Why do bamboo pillows smell bad when they are new?
- Do I put a pillowcase on my bamboo pillow?
- How long does a bamboo pillow last?
- Do bamboo pillows get bugs or dust mites?
- Can you wash a bamboo pillow?
- Can bamboo pillows go in the dryer?
- How do you get bamboo pillows to fluff up?
- Are bamboo pillows bad for stomach sleepers?
1. Are bamboo pillows good for neck pain?
The memory foam in a bamboo pillow is perfect for aligning your head and neck in a neutral position to help relieve muscle strain. Some bamboo pillows contain shredded memory foam to provide you with an even more customizable sleep experience than regular memory foam alone.
Shredded memory foam also provides better airflow than solid pillow foams, allowing your head and neck to stay cool and comfortable all night long.
2. Why do bamboo pillows smell bad when they are new?
Bamboo pillows often have a strong, chemical-like smell when they are first removed from their packaging. This smell is due to the manufacturing process and will dissipate over time.
If you’re not able to wait for the smell to go away on its own, you can air out your pillow by leaving it in a sunny spot for a few hours.
3. Do I put a pillowcase on my bamboo pillow?
It’s a good idea to put a pillowcase on your bamboo pillow to protect it from dust, dirt, and oils from your skin. Bamboo viscose is a delicate fabric and can be easily stained or damaged if not properly cared for.
4. How long does a bamboo pillow last?
A high-quality bamboo pillow will last 2-3 years with proper care. However, a lower-quality bamboo pillow may only last 1-2 years.
You can prolong the lifespan of your bamboo pillow by putting a pillowcase on it each night to protect it from bodily fluids and dust.
5. Do bamboo pillows get bugs or dust mites?
Bamboo pillows are resistant to dust mites, but that doesn’t mean they are 100% free of them. If you’re allergic to dust mites, you might want to put a hypoallergenic pillowcase on your bamboo pillow to help keep the dust mites at bay.
6. Can you wash a bamboo pillow?
You can only wash bamboo pillows that are filled with shredded memory foam. Although bamboo pillows with solid memory foam should never be put in your washing machine, you can still wash its removable cover without any issues.
7. Can bamboo pillows go in the dryer?
You can put your bamboo pillow in the dryer to fluff it up. Just make sure to set the dryer to low heat and only dry it for 10-15 minutes. Excessive heat can damage the pillow’s memory foam and fabric shell.
For a wet bamboo pillow, let it air dry for at least 24 hours to get the majority of the moisture out before putting it in the dryer.
8. How do you get bamboo pillows to fluff up?
If your bamboo pillow is feeling a little stiff, you can fluff it up by putting it in the dryer for 5-10 minutes on low heat. You can also try shaking it and punching it to restore its thickness and loft.
To maintain maximum fluffiness, it’s recommended that you rotate your bamboo pillow every night. This will keep the memory foam evenly dispersed throughout the pillow, keeping it from getting too squished in any one spot overnight.
9. Are bamboo pillows bad for stomach sleepers?
Not all bamboo pillows are ideal for stomach sleepers. If you’re a stomach sleeper, look for a pillow with a higher loft to keep your head and neck elevated. A bamboo pillow with a lower loft might be too flat and uncomfortable for stomach sleepers.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to finding the perfect pillow, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Bamboo pillows are a great option for people who are looking for a pillow that is both comfortable and supportive.
With the right care, a bamboo pillow can last up to 3 years. So, if you’re in the market for a new pillow, be sure to check out bamboo pillows! They may just be the perfect fit for you.
