Knowing about the different types of pregnancy pillows is only half the battle. Let’s see what you need to know when comparing one pregnancy pillow to another.
Does the pregnancy pillow have a removable protective cover?
Guess what? As your pregnancy continues, you will experience nights of sweating thanks to your pregnancy hormones. Unfortunately, this perspiration will not only be absorbed by your sheets, but also by your pregnancy pillow.
Due to their bulky size, pregnancy pillows are not easy to clean. A removable cover will allow you to easily wash your pregnancy pillow. The most popular pillow brands sell replacement covers separately so you can still use your pillow at night while your washed cover dries.
Covers that are attached with buttons or snaps quickly become unpleasant. A zip or a simple zipper will greatly simplify the removal.
What is the filling used in the pregnancy pillow?
Let’s take a look at the different fillings manufacturers use to keep your pregnancy pillow comfortable and supportive.
Polystyrene ball filling
Do you know those little white balls that you find in a bean bag? These are styrofoam balls and are also often found in the cheapest pregnancy pillows. Styrofoam filling allows the pillows to easily adapt to your figure and light weight. The downside is that they tend to make noise while you put yourself on the pregnancy pillow.
Polyester fiber filling
Polyester fiber is soft and makes no noise. The amount of polyester fibers used in a pregnancy pillow will determine the firmness. Although polyester is a very popular filling in pregnancy pillows, it does not breathe as well as other fillings.
Microbead filling
Micro-pearls are incredibly thin balls about 0.7mm wide (rather small, huh?). Maternity pillows made of micro pearls give the impression of having sand inside. Unlike sand, micro beads are incredibly light, so you can easily carry your pregnancy pillow. The micro-beads offer virtually no noise and are much more comfortable than standard polystyrene beads.
Memory foam filling
Memory foam pregnancy pillows take the shape of your body when you lean against it. Once your weight is taken off the pillow, the memory foam returns to its original shape. Pregnancy pillows containing the memory foam filling are generally quite firm. Since memory foam can build up heat, some manufacturers shred it before using it to fill pregnancy pillows. The shredded memory foam allows air to circulate inside, reducing the feeling of heat.
Natural and organic filling
If you want to keep your pregnancy as natural as possible then you will definitely be looking for a pregnancy pillow to meet your needs. Natural fillings include:
- Spelled
- Oldest boy
- Kapok
Remember, just because a pregnancy pillow uses natural padding doesn’t mean it’s organic.
One more thing about the pillow filling:
Depending on the material inside the pillow, your pregnancy pillow may have a “new” smell. If so, just air the pillow for a few days before use and most of the smell should be gone.
What is the noise level of the pregnancy pillow?
This was addressed in the infill section above. Some pads and blankets are louder than others. When I say noise, I mean the sound your pillow makes when you move your head and body. You don’t want a pillow that creases and creases so badly that it will wake you up in the middle of the night.
Pay attention to the padding and fabric of the pillow and avoid anything that is too noisy when placing your head on the pillow.
Is the pregnancy pillow hypoallergenic?
The changes your body goes through during pregnancy can actually make you more sensitive to fibers and materials that previously had no effect on you. Isn’t pregnancy wonderful?
A hypoallergenic pregnancy pillow will allow you to sleep at night without triggering allergies. If you had respiratory complications, asthma or allergies before pregnancy, a hypoallergenic pillow is absolutely essential.
How big is the pillow?
Before you jump in and buy this pregnancy pillow, it is important that you consider its size. If the pillow is too big, your partner will most likely sleep on the sofa.
Take into consideration the size of the pregnancy pillow relative to the size of your bed. The larger your bed, the larger the pregnancy pillow you can place between you and your partner.
The size also depends on your personal preferences. Some women literally like to swim in their pregnancy pillow. Others prefer it smaller. Consider your preferences when choosing a pregnancy pillow.
Soft vs. Soft Pregnancy Pillows farms
Lots of people love soft pillows. When choosing a pregnancy pillow, it is best to put this preference aside. A firmer pregnancy pillow will provide more support than a softer pillow. Although a firm pregnancy pillow may seem uncomfortable at first, you will get used to it quickly.
