Eco Pillows

Eco pillows versus conventional pillows. What is the difference? Well, conventional pillows contain petroleum chemicals whether from the agricultural process or as additives and treatments during manufacture e.g. no iron and moisture resistant. These synthetic chemicals release VOCs into the air in your home which are hazardous to your health. Over time conventional pillows also become inhabited by growing numbers of dust mites in a cycle of droppings and dead dust mites. It is much better to avoid synthetic materials altogether and opt instead for natural, healthy and eco-friendly alternatives. Be careful of pillows that have both natural and synthetic blends, as the natural materials will be processed and manufactured in the same manner as the synthetic fibres.

Down

Eiderdown and feather filled pillows are a healthy choice. View part 3 of this article on duvets and quilts for more information on down.

Horse hair pillow

Typically blended with other natural materials like wool, latex and cotton. This natural material retains is springiness over time. It is naturally breathable and allows air and moisture to circulate freely.

The majority of sources of horse hair are from overseas which adds to the levels of embodied energy through excessive transportation and distribution.

Kapok

These eco pillows are typically blended with other natural materials like organic cotton and linen. Excellent anti allergy properties derived from the Kapok tree seed pods. Most plantations are naturally harvested once the pods have dropped to the ground. These fibres hold the same characteristics as down and are a good substitute without the danger of cruelty to fowl. They also hold excellent moisture resistant properties.

Natural Latex

This pillow filling material is an excellent alternative to polyurethane pillows as it conforms to your body well and holds its shape to support your neck and head gently and firmly. Natural latex is in abundant supply from rubber trees, however the origin of this tree is overseas, which increase the levels of embodied energy during transportation and distribution.

Eco pillows

Buckwheat

Available with 100% organic buckwheat hulls mould around the shape of your head. For farming this is a very environmentally friendly choice as it does not need pesticides to flourish. Organic farming also removes the small amount of chemical fertilisers.

It is naturally dust mite repellent and is truly sustainable and renewable. One are to note is how well the hulls are cleaned, as some manufacturers with below standard methods increase the risk of allergic reaction to dust within the hulls. Check with the retailer or manufacturer for details.

Organic cotton

Suitable if you are allergic to latex, buckwheat and wool &ndash; a good hypo allergenic choice. Opt for spelt organic cotton for increased resistance to dust mites and mould. Spelt is made up of unbleached and untreated cotton husks with a coarser filling texture, similar to the feel of a bean bag.

Wool

Wool is an ideal choice for pillow filling as it holds excellent moisture resistant qualities which do not encourage dust mites, mould or mildew. It is a natural fire inhibitor and a great insulator. Look for certified organic wool that has not been treated with chemical additives and where the farming methods are humane and natural.

Anti allergy

These eco pillows may contain synthetics unless they have a certified organic label for the materials used. Be careful of any claims and contact the manufacturer directly for more information on their products before you buy. However most reputable anti allergy pillows will be made with natural materials and without chemical processing.

Recycled polyester

Not a healthy alternative to conventional pillows as these pillows still contain chemical additives and will offgas VOCs into your interior. However any recycled content is a step in the right direction.