The pillow is the mainstay of good sleep.
It is therefore important to select yours carefully.
We have identified four essential criteria to monitor.
1. A natural fiber pillowcase
The envelope is generally made of cotton, which can be untreated, undyed, organic… Tencel (or Lyocell), a wood cellulose fiber that comes from eucalyptus or bamboo, gives it a silky feel.
“Prefer natural fibers, avoid
polyester
which promotes the development of bacteria, mold and odors.
Also look at the number of threads per square centimeter.
A tight weave ensures that feathers won't bleed through.
For a shape memory pillow, prefer a knitted envelope, which lets air through, and removable cover because the foam does not wash off”
, advises Alexandra Haïm, director of La Maison de l'Oreiller.
Read alsoHow to take care of your sleep?
2. Feather or down pillow filling
Entry-level feather pillows should be avoided.
Too big, they quickly pierce the envelope.
Prefer feathers, or down, smoother but more expensive (up to 300€).
Feather-down blends are a good compromise.
There are as many synthetic fibers as there are manufacturers.
Polyester hollow fiber is the most common.
“The entry-level ones quickly make balls and are to be avoided for everyday use.
The Suprelle-type down-effect fibre, highly silicone-coated, does not compact and withstands many washes.
As for foams, those with shape memory dominate the market.
To choose, rather than the density, look at the quality: cut or molded foam.
This information does not appear on the label but can be given in store”
, continues Alexandra Haïm.
Latex, which is not very comfortable because it is too plump, should be reserved for people looking for a natural material.
Read alsoHow to make a cushion yourself?
To monitor
If the words “new down” do not appear on the label, there is a good chance that it is recycled material.
More brittle and less swelling, it is sometimes sold at the price of new.
3. A pillow with quality labels
The Oeko-Tex label guarantees the absence of hazardous substances for users and the environment.
It concerns either the casing alone, or the casing and the packing.
The certification of the National Council of Bedding, Belle Literie Excellence, certifies that the product is made in France, according to quality and safety requirements.
Each pillow has an identification number ensuring its traceability.
The Downpass label guarantees respect for animal welfare in farms supplying feathers for stuffing.
Read alsoThe 5 rules to follow when choosing the right pillow
4. A natural treatment pillow
There are multiple treatments.
Anti-mites, antifungals and antibacterials are based on biocides.
It is better to favor anti-mites of plant origin Greenfirst or Proneem (based on geraniol for the first and neem for the second).
It should be noted that the Teflon anti-stain treatment, suspected of being harmful, is shunned by consumers.
It is also being abandoned by all manufacturers.