Friday 19 August 2011

A Quick Introduction To Pillows

By Beth Giles


People and pillows have a long history together. The Pharaohs of ancient Egypt not only used them during their life but were buried with them as well. Today, pillows are one of the most popular bedding accessories raking in 11% of all sales worldwide.

Pillows are made with all kinds of materials. In ancient China, there were pillows made out of wood, metal, porcelain, and even stone! These days, pillows are kinder to the body. They are made with soft and light materials such as foam, synthetic fiber, and the coveted feathers or down.

A cotton cloth, usually rectangular in shape, is filled with the soft material then sewn up. Completing the pillow is a pillow case which can be slipped off for washing.

The goal of a pillow is to provide the neck and head with soft support. The material of the pillow adjusts to the natural curve when a person is lying down. Hence pillows that are too low or too high are not recommended as they will prop the head at an irregular position causing discomfort and a stiff neck.

There are many kinds of pillows that support other areas of the body aside from the head and neck. Body pillows are designed to support the whole body and seat cushions to protect the back from slouching.

Travelers make do with a U-shaped travel pillow which can be slipped over the back of the neck and over the shoulders so one can lean their head to the side and sleep while traveling.

Donut pillows help the tailbone, the lumbar pillow supports the lower back, and nursing pillows prop up babies when they breast-feed.

Keeping the pillows clean and dust free is a necessity for health. Old pillows are a haven for dust-mites which can cause allergies to unsuspecting sleepers. When a pillow gets too old and heavy to wash or clean, it's time to throw it in the trash and replace it with a new one.




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