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Gel
Pillow Review and Analysis
Pros
A down-like feel without the allergies, decent contouring,
lightweight, easy to care for, value
Cons
Possible off gassing, may clump, shift and develop hollow
spots
What Is a Gel Pillow?
A gel pillow is not filled with any type of gel or liquid-like
substance. Rather, it is filled with polyester gel fibers. This
makes the pillow similar to a traditional polyester / synthetic-filled
pillow in some ways. However, polyester gel does have some unique
properties. Namely, it has a similar feel to goose down, yet
retains the hypoallergenic characteristics of polyester fill.
Below,
the pillow is evaluated for each characteristic on a scale of
one to ten. One means the pillow does not have the characteristic,
and 10 means it fully has the characteristic.
Firm
Gel pillows have a low to medium firmness level. They are designed
to have a similar feel as down (soft), but with more support.
Score: 4 out of 10
Contouring Support
They automatically conform to the contours of one’s head
and neck space, providing average support.
Score: 5 out of 10
Adjustable Height and
Firmness
The pillows are not adjustable. However, because they are pliable
they can be scrunched up some to provide improve loft and firmness.
Score: 3 out of 10
Good for Back Sleeping
They are probably suitable for most back sleepers because of
their low to medium loft.
Score: 7 out of 10
Good for Side Sleeping
They may not provide adequate height for comfortable side sleeping.
Score: 5 out of 10
Good for Stomach Sleeping
The pillows can be acceptable for stomach sleeping, especially
after the pillow is broken in and has become flatter.
Score: 6 out of 10
Quiet
The pillow is quiet.
Score: 10 out of 10
Air Flow
Polyester gel is a fair insulator and will generally stay at
a temperature somewhere between your body temperature and room
temperature.
Score: 5 out of 10
Light Weight
The pillow will usually not weight more than one or two pounds.
Score: 7 out of 10
No Smell
Off gassing may be more of an issue with polyester gel than
traditional polyester.
Score: 5 out of 10
Hypoallergenic
The pillows are hypoallergenic but are susceptible to dust mites
since mites like to feed on the poly fiber.
Score: 7 out of 10
Durable
Polyester-based fill typically is fairly durable, and can be
expected to last at least a few years.
Score: 6 out of 10
Easily Cared For
They typically do not need shaking or fluffing to maintain their
loft. They can be machine washed and dried.
Score: 8 out of 10
Price
Gel pillows are low to moderately priced.
Score: 7 out of 10
Value
At a low price, they can be considered a good value since they
will likely last at least a few years.
Score: 7 out of 10
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